Average Engineering Test Scores Across the US

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the variability of average engineering test scores across different educational institutions in the US. Participants explore their personal experiences with test scores, the grading systems in place, and the challenges of estimating averages in a diverse educational landscape.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the validity of the original inquiry about average test scores, suggesting that grading varies significantly by class, subject, and instructor.
  • Another participant shares their personal test score of 85, noting the average score in their class was 63, and expresses uncertainty about how to calculate an overall average from these figures.
  • A participant defines the term "mean of the average" in response to the previous comment about estimating averages.
  • Several participants discuss their experiences with different engineering subjects, expressing anticipation for future courses and the practical applications of their studies.
  • There is a mention of a poll regarding average scores, with one participant expressing surprise at the distribution of results, noting that they expected scores to be more concentrated around the middle rather than evenly spread out.
  • Another participant expresses disbelief at the statistic that nearly 30% of respondents average 80 or above, indicating a perception of high performance among peers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the average test scores, with multiple competing views on grading variability and personal experiences shared. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall trends in engineering test scores.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the limitations in estimating averages due to varying grading standards, class difficulty, and individual instructor approaches. There are also unresolved assumptions about what constitutes an "average" score across different contexts.

Who May Find This Useful

Students in engineering programs, educators interested in grading practices, and those researching educational assessment in STEM fields may find this discussion relevant.

Average pre-curve score in your engineering classes

  • < 50 (ouch)

    Votes: 2 8.7%

  • 55-60

    Votes: 2 8.7%

  • 60-65

    Votes: 6 26.1%

  • 65-70

    Votes: 3 13.0%

  • 70-75

    Votes: 4 17.4%

  • 75-80

    Votes: 1 4.3%

  • >80 (how can I transfer?)

    Votes: 5 21.7%
  • Total voters
    23
JSBeckton
Messages
224
Reaction score
0
Just curious as to what the grading is like around the country, which best describes the average test score in your engineering classes (without a curve)?
 
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That's a bad question. It varies from class to class and subject to subject, teacher to teacher.

How was your thermo test?
 
85, with the average at 63. I know its not an easy thing to estimate with all of the variables. I guess I'm asking for an average of an average. What is that called...I didn't enjoy statistics.
 
It's called the mean of the average. \sigma_ \bar{X}.

85, that would be an A, good job!

Try to solve that problem I sent you in your PM box if you want to for fun.
 
Thanks, my final is tomorrow, can't wait to get this semester over with!
 
Final, already? :bugeye:

You guys must have skipped a lot of material. It really does get fun after all that crap you did. Jet engines and stuff!
 
I'm sure it will. I actually like this material already, just not this teacher. This is just Intro to Thermal, I have to take applied thermo, heat transfer, and applied fluid dynamics. Thanks for all of your help bye the way. I am starting a co-op this summer with Reliant Energy so I'll be around the power plants and get a better feeling of this stuff (hopefully) but I'll have more questions in the fall!
 
Good stuff. Applied thermo will be better, I promise. You will do cycles. Carnot cycle, Otto cycle, Brayton cycle. Thermal efficiencies, regeneration, cogeneration etc. It get's a lot better. It's not a stupid piston cylinder device.
 
Can't wait!
 
  • #10
Do the problem I sent you!

<And no cheating, I am timing you!>
 
  • #11
just now noticed, start now
 
  • #12
Tick, tock, tick, tock :smile:

I have the correct answers once your done.

Good luck! (I'm sure you don't need it)

You are 3 mins late, I want the answer NOW!

I said pencil's down!

:smile:
 
Last edited:
  • #13
Wow, look at the variability in the poll thus far!
 
  • #14
I'm a bit suprised that nothing sticks out. I guess I expected it to be more heavily concentrated around the middle than evenly spread out. I know there is a lot of varibility though.
 
  • #15
I can't believe that nearly 30% average 80+, that's crazy!
 

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