|
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 MartÃnez
|
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.
|