Accreditation is more than a compliance exercise. For engineering programs, it represents a structured commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and measurable student learning outcomes. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, commonly known as ABET, requires institutions to assess student performance systematically and demonstrate ongoing program refinement. While the standards are clear, the operational burden of tracking assessments across courses, outcomes, and performance indicators can be substantial. This student research project addresses that challenge through the development of an automated assessment tracking system.
Many engineering programs rely on multiple tools to manage assessment data. Existing platforms such as STRATA or ACAT may support portions of the process, but often cannot function as standalone systems. As a result, programs frequently combine spreadsheets, manual reports, and external software to document compliance. This fragmentation increases workload and introduces the potential for missing assessments, reporting inaccuracies, and inefficient audit preparation.
The proposed solution is a customized Microsoft Excel based assessment tracker programmed using Visual Basic for Applications. Rather than replacing institutional systems entirely, the tracker integrates essential assessment functions into a centralized, structured workflow. Four term selection buttons generate reports identifying which courses, student outcomes, and performance indicators require assessment within a given cycle. This automated filtering reduces manual sorting and streamlines review processes.
A key feature of the system is the Cohort Tracker, which follows student progress across six academic terms. By mapping assessments to specific student outcomes and performance indicators, the tool ensures comprehensive documentation of the full assessment cycle. Missing assessments, incomplete reports, or documentation gaps can be identified more quickly, supporting a proactive rather than reactive accreditation strategy.
The project includes a pilot test comparing the automated tracker against existing tracking methods. Evaluation focuses on organizational clarity, time savings, and error reduction. Anticipated outcomes include a reduced administrative workload for the ABET Coordinator and Department Chair, as well as improved readiness for ABET and NECHE audits. By consolidating assessment tracking within a structured Excel framework, the system balances accessibility with automation.
Beyond operational efficiency, the broader objective is to strengthen the assessment cycle itself. When data is easier to organize and analyze, faculty can focus more on interpreting results and improving student learning. Effective tracking supports better conversations around curriculum alignment, performance indicators, and program outcomes.
For engineering programs seeking scalable and cost effective solutions, this project demonstrates how thoughtful automation can enhance accreditation management. Rather than adding complexity, the tracker simplifies the process while reinforcing a culture of evidence based improvement.
Author and Affiliation
Lucas Sutton, New England Institute of Technology
This presentation will be delivered in person at the SAM International Business Conference as part of the Invitation Only Submissions track. Attendees will explore how automated tracking systems can improve assessment efficiency and support continuous improvement within engineering education. For more information visit www.samnational.org/conference