Program Evaluator Badge
In our commitment to formally recognize our volunteer experts’ invaluable expertise in program evaluation on behalf of ABET, we are thrilled to offer microcredentials for Program Evaluators. Earners of the Program Evaluator badge have demonstrated, through formal training provided by ABET, the ability to evaluate academic programs in the areas of applied and natural science, computing, engineering and/or engineering technology against approved criteria.
ABET accreditation would not be possible without Program Evaluators–professionals from industry, academia, and government dedicated to contributing to their professions through the ongoing improvement of the quality of technical education. ABET Program Evaluators do the hands-on work of accrediting programs worldwide.
To become a Program Evaluator, approved candidates must successfully complete Program Evaluator Candidate Training, which includes 12-20 hours of online coursework and 1.5 days of Simulated Visit Training, and meet society-specific qualifications and training requirements. Program Evaluators who have not participated in an on-site review for two consecutive years or have not been trained by ABET in the past five years are required to undergo Program Evaluator Recertification Training.
How to Become a Program Evaluator
Program Evaluators begin their work by reviewing a self-study report prepared by the program seeking accreditation. The self-study report contains information about the institution, as well as detailed information illustrating how the academic program meets the evaluation criteria. Each accreditation review team travels to the campus and spends approximately 2.5 days investigating their assigned program with the help of the program’s chair and faculty. On-site activities include:
- verifying the information provided in the self-study report
- observing classes
- interviewing students, faculty members, administrators, staff and external stakeholders
- visiting classrooms, labs and other key facilities
- reviewing textbooks, course syllabi, student work and assessment materials
Based on a review of the self-study report and observations made on campus, the program evaluators prepare a draft report identifying shortcomings with respect to the ABET criteria.
What is involved?
Successful program evaluators exhibit the knowledge, skills, and attitudes listed in the ABET Program Evaluator Competency Model and are evaluated against these competencies after each assigned program evaluation.