2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

This study evaluates the implementation of Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) in a first-year core mechanics course across four engineering programs, impacting around 350 students. The course was redesigned to align learning and assessment with specific course outcomes, fostering a more transparent and student-centered approach. The redesigned course emphasized outcomes-based learning, allowing students multiple opportunities to engage with the material and assess their progress toward achieving specific learning outcomes. It helped the instructor identify the areas in which students struggled the most, and it allowed students to understand their areas of improvements. Instead of relying solely on traditional, high-stakes exams, students were evaluated through smaller, targeted assessments designed to measure their understanding of key competencies. This shift not only reduced exam-related stress but also encouraged students to focus on continuous learning and improvement, taking ownership of their educational journey.
For Architectural Engineering students, this approach is particularly relevant as their curriculum requires both theoretical mastery and practical application of mechanics principles in building structures. Unlike other engineering disciplines that may focus more on general mechanics applications, AE students must integrate these concepts with real-world constraints such as material performance, sustainability, and structural integrity. Implementing OBA within this framework allows for a more tailored learning experience that directly aligns with professional competencies in the field.
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