Evaluation Model Using Fundamentals of Engineering Examination

A model for evaluating engineering student performance using the fundamentals of engineering (FE) examination has been developed. A database of FE examination data over several years and for more than 50 universities provides the basis for model development. FE examination data are presented in several forms to evaluate engineering student performance. First, a comparison of performance by discipline [e.g., mechanical engineer (ME) and civil engineer (CE)] in individual subject areas (e.g., dynamics, fluid mechanics, engineering economy) relative to the national average in those subject areas provides performance information for individual universities. Second, a measure, called the Tarquin number, has been developed that is used to compare “best-in-class” and “worst-in-class” performers by discipline and in individual subject areas both within and across institutions. The Tarquin number controls student population bias and can thus be effectively used. To evaluate engineering student performance, a weighted Tarquin number, which is an average of individual Tarquin numbers for each sub-ject area weighted by the number of students taking the particular examination, has been developed. For a series of “test cases,” model validation is based on plausible explanations for the identified performance (either best-inclass or worst-in-class). More quantitative validation will be provided as universities become partners in the study.