Panel - demystifying accreditation beyond U.S. borders

Abstract

Program accreditation in computing, engineering, and technology has many international dimensions. Governments around the world have established agencies or commissions to monitor accreditation in these areas and in other fields of specialization. Worldwide, professional societies and agencies have undertaken the challenge of developing avenues for quality assurance in undergraduate and graduate education. This panel seeks to explore and to present first-hand information regarding the purpose, issues, and complexities surrounding international accreditation activities. The panelists will present a spectrum of diverse experiences they have encountered. Some of the highlights of the presentation include accreditation external to the United States, international agreements and arrangements, and contrasts between U.S. and non-U.S. accreditation efforts. Panel members, some of whom serve on ABET committees that address these matters, will comment on the status of such international activities. The presentation will focus on the philosophical as well as the practical aspects of accreditation activities outside the United States.

The Oas Efta/Laccei Accreditation Workshops: Evolving With Latin America And The Caribbean For Quality Assurance, Capacity Building And Economic Development

“…10 Accreditation practices are also the key to continuous improvement so that programs can develop and become sustainably competitive worldwide. Accreditation efforts vary widely throughout the world 11 and although local and regional considerations should be part of any program assessment and accreditation, standards that are recognized by the global education community are critical for the success of graduates, and by extension, capacity building and socioeconomic development. In Latin America and the Caribbean, many institutions are seeking accreditation from accrediting bodies in the United States, Europe and Canada while they are building their own accreditation agencies.…”

Path to Accreditation for Engineering Programs in Latin America through Coordinated and Tailored Support: The Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions (LACCEI) Par Amigo Initiative

“…9 Accreditation is recognized as a critical means of quality assurance, and education quality assurance results in improved educational outcomes, enhanced capacity building and economic development throughout the world. [10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18] The data available indicate that engineering education is an international enterprise and must be an international endeavor throughout the world. Any engineering graduate can work anywhere in the world and most graduates work for multinational Page 23.958.2 companies.…”