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Continuous assessment is
the key for quality assurance at the university. The aim of assessment is to
understand how educational programs are working and to determine whether
they are contributing to student growth and development. Program assessment
focuses on programs rather than on individual students. It provides
information on whether the curriculum as a whole provides students with the
knowledge, skills and values that graduates should possess in accordance
with its mission and set goals and learning objectives.
The new trends in accreditation criteria have brought outcome assessment to
focus. Accrediting agencies such the
Accreditation Board for Engineering and
Technology (ABET), the
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
(ACCSB), the
Computer Science Accreditation Board (CSAB) and the
National
Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) require programs or colleges seeking
accreditation to have self-assessment. Industry push and competitive job
markets have also contributed to the need for continuous program quality
improvement that focus on student learning and preparation for professional
practice after graduation.
The Program Assessment Center (PAC) at KFUPM strives to achieve its mission
towards developing quality education that meets local industry needs
following reputable international standards. It provides the necessary
services and support for the various academic programs and research units at
the University. It also facilitates and coordinates their efforts to meet
their objectives and institutional goals.
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