SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
Computer Engineering Educational Objectives
The educational objectives of the Penn State Erie Computer Engineering Program are to produce graduates:A. with a broad-based engineering education based on a solid core of mathematics, physical science, and engineering science and an ability to apply this knowledge to the solution of computer engineering problems.
B. that are versed in a wide range of topics spanned by the computer engineering discipline, and also have in-depth technical knowledge in selected areas.
C. that can demonstrate independent thinking, are problem-solvers, and are competent in computer engineering design.
D. that can employ computers and experimental methods to solve engineering problems.
E. that are able to function on engineering teams and are able to effectively communicate their ideas.
F. that are prepared for a lifelong productive career in professional practice or graduate school.
Computer Engineering Educational Outcomes
Graduates of the program are expected to demonstrate:
a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
b) an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability.
d) an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams.
e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.
f) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
g) an ability to communicate effectively.
h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context.
i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
j) a knowledge of contemporary issues.
k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.
l) knowledge of probability and statistics, including applications appropriate to Electrical and Computer Engineering.
m) knowledge of mathematics through differential and integral calculus, basic sciences, computer science, and engineering sciences necessary to analyze and design complex electrical and electronic devices and software as appropriate to Electrical and Computer Engineering.
n) knowledge of mathematics through differential and integral calculus, basic sciences, computer science, and engineering sciences necessary to analyze and design complex systems containing hardware and software components, as appropriate to Electrical and Computer Engineering.
p) knowledge of discrete mathematics.
According the ABET accreditation agency, “Program Educational Objectives are broad statements that describe the career and professional accomplishments that the program is preparing graduate to achieve. Program Educational Outcomes are narrower statements that describe what students are to know and be able to do by the time of graduation.”
The Program Educational Objectives were established through the input from employers of our students, alumni, and industrial constitutes of the program. The achievement of Program Educational Objectives is assessed through the use of alumni and employer surveys, as well as employer focus groups. The Program Educational Outcomes are assessed using a combination of the following instruments:
- Direct assessment of Student work. Each year faculty members in the program assess graded examples of student work to determine the level of achievement. The examples of student work are linked directly the Program Educational Outcomes.
- Senior Exit Surveys. This assessment survey is completed by all graduating seniors in which they are asked to rate how well the Educational Outcomes were achieved.
- Internship Employer Surveys. This assessment survey is completed by supervisors of students who receive internship credit. Employers are asked to rate how well the Educational Objectives were achieved.
- Senior Design Industrial Sponsor Surveys. This assessment survey is completed by supervisors of senior design projects to measure how well the outcomes of the senior design experience were achieved.
- Fundamentals of Engineering Exam reports from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. This nationally administered exam provides a national benchmark for assessing achievement of the Program Educational Outcomes.
The Program Educational Outcomes are assessed annually and each academic program employs at least three of the measurement tools above. More detailed information for each program is available upon request.