Meaningful learning environment by design: systematic curriculum assessment to enhance sequential linkage of course goals and objectives

The Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering has instituted a course assessment process that allows comprehensive evaluation of course goals and program outcomes from a curriculum-wide perspective. The approach is predicated on use of the American Society of Civil Engineers Body of Knowledge guidelines. The first step in implementing the process involved establishment of common course goals, assessment criterion, and BOK levels for each course offered within the departmental curriculum. A matrix of ASCE criterion and BOK levels are coded with each course goals allowing a comprehensive review of the distribution that is reflective of the curriculum. In addition, sequenced lists of course goal are created for major learning activities within civil engineering. Sequenced course goal lists are useful in ensuring the curriculum provides students with academic instruction, within a progressive context, leading to a cumulative set of technical skills necessary to enter the civil engineering profession or to be prepared for graduate education