2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Engineering Management programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) emphasize the assessment of fundamental engineering skills and knowledge. However, the ABET criterion three, Student Outcomes, also focuses on broader competencies such as leadership, communication, and teamwork which recognizes the interdisciplinary demands of modern engineering managers. An emphasis on outcomes-based assessment centers around student performance systematically, and thus enables continuous improvement. This approach ensures that undergraduate engineering management programs not only equip students with essential technical skills but also nurture management and interpersonal abilities that are indispensable in the multifaceted world of contemporary engineering and rapidly evolving technologies. The United States Military Academy (USMA) Department of Systems Engineering governs both the Engineering Management and Systems Engineering ABET programs. The programs are in transition to a new learning management system, Canvas. Focusing on a Project Management course as a case study, this paper will delve into the insights gained during the digital transformation process. Specific lesson objectives within the Canvas system are intricately linked to various assessment methods, such as problem sets and quizzes. Furthermore, the paper explores the delivery of major exams, which have transitioned into a hybrid format combining digital and paper-based assessments, offering a balanced perspective on the advantages and drawbacks of embracing increased digitalization. During this exploration, we will thoroughly examine the lessons learned from both successful implementations and the challenges faced in the digital transformation of the Project Management course at USMA. This endeavor contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing engineering management education, aligning it with the evolving demands of the field and the expectations set forth by ABET.