Key Points of Response to CAC

Version: Mon Jun 16 18:33:22 EDT 2003

The Main Argument

• These points address the complaint that Standard IV-12 and Standard IV-14 are not satisfied.

• The ABET CAC Curriculum Intent statement requires "an emphasis on science and mathematics".

• We assert that we satisfy the Curriculum Intent statement.

• CAC's own definition allows a program to "demonstrate an alternative approach to achieving the Intent of the Criterion".

• We assert that our alternative approach to achieving the Intent of the Criterion provides an educational experience in science and mathematics as strong or stronger than CAC's Standards.

• CAC's own definition allows the Intent to be met without meeting the Standards.

• Hence the fact that Standards IV-12 and IV-14 are not met is irrelevant.

In support of Our Alternative Approach

• There is no detailed explanation of the ABET CAC Curriculum Intent statement; no rationale for it; and no detailed description that allows it to be decided whether alternative approaches satisfy it.

• The CS Distribution Requirement specifies 12 courses of science and mathematics (i.e., 36 credit hours). This is 40% of the Computer Science Distribution Requirements, and clearly an "emphasis" on science and mathematics.

• Our Science Distribution Requirement is 5 courses. This may include up to 2 Engineering courses.

• Engineering is, by definition, the application of Science and Mathematics.

• Engineering courses include the following characteristics:
  • they have an experimental basis;
  • they develop and use models;
  • they develop hypotheses and confirm them using data analysis;
  • they use scientific laws;
  • they have a strong emphasis on quantitative methods; and
  • they require good lab practices.
  Hence, Engineering courses "enhance the student's ability to apply the scientific method".

• Engineering courses, such as Electrical Engineering, also contribute to other components of the Intent: e.g., preparation for professional careers.

• WPI is known for excellence in Engineering and Science. Hence, high quality Engineering courses are widely available for our students.

• The only difference between the CAC defined Standards and our alternative approach is 3 credit hours of Science, which is a minimal difference.

• Our approach can provide more scientific content that is relevant to Computer Science, as well as more exposure to courses that enhance the student's ability to apply the scientific method, and more courses that have a strong emphasis on quantitative methods.