Computer Science Program Objectives and Outcomes
Objectives
The Computer Science Program effectiveness is assessed in terms of program objectives
and student outcomes. Program objectives reflect the capabilities that we desire and expect
graduates of our program to possess at the conclusion of their undergraduate program.
Student outcomes reflect the learning and skills that we expect students to develop as
they proceed through the undergraduate program. It is through the achievement of these
outcomes that our students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish the
program objectives.
The program outcomes were developed in conjunction with course faculty, students, and
employers. The program objectives were developed in conjunction with faculty, former
students, and employers. The development and refinement of the outcomes and objectives
were led by the Computer Science Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
Committee, which was established in fall 2000. The committee, for which the composition
changes slightly each year, continues to refine the outcomes and objectives when needed
based upon feedback from the different constituencies. The committee consists of faculty,
both tenured, tenure-track faculty and senior lecturers, and students. A slight change
in the committee composition allows for the entire faculty to rotate participation on
committee.
Outcomes
The Computer Science Program outcomes are given below. These outcomes are consistent
with that recommended by ABET. All the constituencies considered this list of outcomes
to be complete in terms of that which we want our current students to obtain as they
proceed through the undergraduate program.
- An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and computing
- An ability to design and conduct experiments and to analyze and interpret data
- An ability to design a system, component or process to meet desired needs
- An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams
- An ability to identify, formulate and solve computer-related problems
- An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
- An ability to communicate effectively - both orally and in writing
- An understanding of the field of computing in a global and societal context
- A recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life long learning
- A knowledge of contemporary issues
- An ability to use the techniques, skills and modern computing tools necessary for computer engineering practice.
Program Objectives for the Graduating Seniors
The Computer Science Program objectives are given below. Originally, the program
included nine objectives that were very closely aligned with the eleven outcomes.
This was the case until September 2003, at which time we were informed by visitors,
who were previous ABET reviewers, discussed the need to refine and reduce our objectives.
At that time the faculty and students agreed to reduce the program objectives to four, with
a clear mapping to the outcomes. The result of the refinement and mapping are given below.
- Graduates of the Computer Science Program will have the necessary technical knowledge
and skills both in breadth and depth, to pursue the practice or advanced study of computer science.
Outcomes A, B, C, D, E, J, and K
- Graduates of the Computer Science Program will understand the importance of life-long
learning, and be prepared to learn and understand new technological developments in their field.
Outcome I
- Graduates of the Computer Science Program will understand the ethical and technical context of
their computer science contributions and their obligations therein.
Outcomes F, H, J
- Graduates of the Computer Science Program will develop the communication, teamwork, and leadership
skills necessary to function productively and professionally.
All Outcomes
