Quality Accreditation of Engineering Education. Issues on an Optimal Accrediting Agency Model

Published in: Proceedings of the 13th Latin American and Caribbean Conference for Engineering and Technology: Engineering Education Facing the Grand Challenges, What Are We Doing?
Date of Conference: July 29 - 31, 2015
Location of Conference: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Authors: Hugo J. Pirela Martínez
Refereed Paper: #196

Abstract:

Abstract- This paper analyzes in detail the features that set accreditation apart from other qualification processes -i.e the ones relating to graduation and licensure of engineers- as a quality marker of engineering education, in terms of its social function and underpinnings; degree of mandate; and geographical scope. Based on this analysis the author argues for: (i) outcome-oriented approach to accreditation; (ii) demand-driven criteria for judging quality; (iii) profession-controlled organization; (iv) internationally homogeneous standards; and (v) orientation toward the Washington Accord, as key features of an optimal institutional model for agencies accrediting the quality of engineering education.