About Performance Indicators

Q: What's the definition of Performance Indicator?

A: Performance Indicators are "Specific, measurable statements identifying student performance(s) required to meet the outcome; confirmable through evidence" (Slide #13 of the Basics of Program Assessment Planning Workshop in April 2021).

Q: Are performance indicators needed for ABET accreditation?

A: The short answer is yes. Although Performance Indicators are not required (unlike Program Educational Objectives and Student Outcomes), they are considered best practice and are emphasized throughout ABET training.

Q: How many performance indicators should an outcome has?

A: "Generally, 3-5" (Slide #21 of the Program Assessment Methods and Measures Workshop in April 2021), and 2 is acceptable for some outcomes.

Examples from ABET Materials

These ones are from the two ABET workshops in April 2021.

Outcome: An ability to identify, formulate, and solve broadly defined technical or scientific problems by applying knowledge of mathematics and science.

Performance Indicators:

1. Identifies the problem and problem-solving strategy.
2. Applies appropriate solution method using math/science/computing principles.
3. Generates a problem solution.
4. Evaluates alternative solutions

Outcome: Student can work effectively in teams.

Performance Indicators:

1. Participate in the establishment of goals and workplan of the team.
2. Contributes to the development of a collaborative team environment.
3. Encourages an inclusive team environment.
4. Exhibits dependability in the achievement of the team's goals.

Outcome: Communicate effectively in writing.

Performance Indicators:

1. Providing supporting details which enhance the quality of the report.
2. Use logical organizational pattern which enhances understanding.
3. Use language which is appropriate for audience.
4. Apply rules of standard English.
5. Use graphics which enhance audience understanding.

This one is from a document on ABET website called Student Outcomes and Performance Indicators. I'm not sure how authoritative the document is, but the example seems to be good.

Outcome: Students should be able to conduct an experiment and interpret data.

Performance Indicators:

1. Follow the design of an experiment plan (knowledge)
2. Acquire data on appropriate variables (application)
3. Compare experimental results to appropriate theoretical models (analysis)
4. Offer explanation of observed differences between model and experiment (evaluation)

Other Good Examples

This one is from a CSULA sample assessment plan. The terminology used by CSULA is different, but I think it can be used as a good example for ABET performance indicators.

Outcome: Demonstrate knowledge and application of fundamental principles of living systems.

Performance Indicators:

1. Understand the genetic basis and molecular and cellular function of living systems.
2. Understand the evolutionary processes that lead to adaptation or speciation and the evolutionary relationships among major lineages.
3. Demonstrate integrated understanding of the metabolic process of cells to maintain life.
4. Describe the dynamic ecological relationships among various organisms and their interconnection with environments and role in biochemical cycles.