Faculty evaluators use detailed rubrics to assess capstone projects across multiple dimensions. At the core is an evaluation of the technical merits of the project – whether the engineering principles or coding were applied appropriately to solve the defined problem. Evaluators will look for evidence that students used their disciplinary knowledge and skills to analyze requirements, design viable solutions, implement a working prototype or simulation, and test/validate/refine the work. Importantly, open-ended problems with no single right answer are often used so evaluators can gauge how well students navigated ambiguity.
In addition to technical evaluation, strong emphasis is placed on professional competencies. Written communications associated with the project (e.g. proposal, documentation, final report) will be assessed for clarity, organization, and use of proper technical language/formats. Oral defense of the project allows evaluators to provide feedback on students’ presentation skills, understanding of audience needs, ability to concisely convey technical concepts, and competence answering detailed questions. Non-technical elements like project management, teamwork, and fulfillment of deadlines are also judged.
Evaluation also considers how well each student integrates classroom learning into real-world applications. Did they engage with industry to appropriately scope the problem and design a solution of practical value? Did they utilize modern tools/skills demanded by employers? Capstone projects are expected to demonstrate the culmination of learning across multiple courses and preparation of graduates for professional practice.
Faculty use evaluation rubrics to assign quantitative scores or ratings for each competency dimension as well as an overall assessment. Multiple evaluators will typically assess each student project to ensure reliability. Qualitative feedback is also provided throughout the project and in final reports. If necessary, students can be asked to undertake further work or revisions before receiving a final grade. This rigorous process helps to systematically develop and assess all the skills expected of graduating Texas A&M engineers and computer scientists. It serves a valuable quality control function to verify that program outcomes are being achieved before students embark on their careers.
Andrew Stroud