How does EPCE select the programs?
As an industry coalition, EPCE continuously assesses how online education and training can help build the industry's workforce. Based on training and education needs assessments across the membership, EPCE develops the curriculum or selects online programs with curriculum that best aligns with those needs. In addition, EPCE members and CAEL, which is the organization that manages EPCE, ensure the quality of online instruction, interactivity and use of technology, the online student services are in place and the program accommodates working adult learners. EPCE then conducts extensive request for proposal processes to select both the education providers and programs to sponsor.
All EPCE-sponsored education providers and programs are required to meet the following EPCE standards.
EPCE Standards
Education providers
- are regionally accredited institutions
- are recognized as a leading institution by other colleges, universities, and the utility industry
- incorporate feedback from industry subject matter experts and instructional designers
- engage in a continuous improvement process
Relevant curriculum
- ties back to job responsibilities, specifically electric industry competencies
- draws on input from industry representatives
- has clear, attainable learning outcomes identified
- is designed and developed based on the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) process
- uses standardized assessment and evaluation procedures
- qualifies for accreditation, when appropriate (for example, TAC-ABET)
Course delivery and format
- uses online delivery, with no campus or site visits necessary
- employs a user-friendly online system for course delivery
- is instructor-led, interactive, and available 24/7
Quality instructors
- are experienced at teaching online
- use proven instructional techniques
- are experienced in the energy industry
Student services
- online application and registration process
- online library
- tutoring and student advising available for online students
|
