Title: Improving systems engineering curriculum using a competency-based assessment approach

Authors: Alice Squires, Wiley Larson

Addresses: Stevens Institute of Technology, School of Systems and Enterprises (SSE), Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA. ' Stevens Institute of Technology, School of Systems and Enterprises (SSE), Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA

Abstract: This paper summarises the use of a competency-based approach to assess our university|s systems engineering curriculum. Our team selected and validated a systems engineering competency model developed from within the space industry to perform an assessment of our core systems engineering courses. Next, we assessed the level to which a student successfully completing our programme, could potentially |apply|, with minimal guidance, those systems engineering capabilities we defined as critical. We identified the gaps or opportunity areas for improvement in our curriculum and based on these gaps, we developed an initial set of actions for improving our core systems engineering curriculum.

Keywords: systems engineering curriculum; systems engineering competency; competency-based approach; space industry; curriculum assessment; engineering education; higher education.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIDSS.2009.030583

International Journal of Intelligent Defence Support Systems, 2009 Vol.2 No.3, pp.184 - 201

Published online: 24 Dec 2009 *

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