Evaluation model using fundamentals of engineering examination

A model for evaluating engineering student performance using the fundamenta ls of engineering (FE) examination has been developed. A database of FE exa mination data over several years and for more than 50 universities provides the basis for model development. FE examination data are presented in seve ral forms to evaluate engineering student performance. First, a comparison of performance by discipline [e.g., mechanical engineer (NLE) and civil eng ineer (CE)] in individual subject areas (e.g., dynamics, fluid mechanics, e ngineering economy) relative to the national average in those subject areas provides performance information for individual universities. Second, a me asure, called the Tarquin number, has been developed that is used to compar e "best-in-class'' and "worst-in-class'' performers by discipline and in in dividual subject areas both within and across institutions. The Tarquin num ber controls student population bias and can thus be effectively used. To e valuate engineering student performance, a weighted Tarquin number, which i s an average of individual Tarquin numbers for each subject area weighted b y the number of students taking the particular examination, has been develo ped. For a series of "test cases," model validation is based on plausible e xplanations for the identified performance (either best-in-class or worst-i n-class). More quantitative validation will be provided as universities bec ome partners in the study.