COLLISION DIAGNOSTICS AND ESTIMATING PHILOSOPY
Philosophy: Determining repairs needed to damage vehicles will be taught in this course as well as
estimating cost related to the repair of these damages. Repairs to paint, frames, accessories, and safety
equipment will be covered. Students will actually work on damaged parts to become familiar with the
time needed for repairs. This course will be 1/3 theory and 2/3 lab. Safety will be taught and
emphasized.
Bottom Line: Vocational education is expected to prepare students for occupations in the skilled areas
such as Auto Body Repair. In the automotive field, auto body repair is experiencing a faster growth than
any other service area. This course is designed to develop basic skills/knowledge in the area of body and
frame alignment necessary for a student to meet vocational objectives in the auto body specialty area.
Course Objectives: This course will help the student learn the following skills:
a. Understand and perform basic measurement and service information
b. Visually determine the extent of impact damage
c. Analyze impact damage to mechanical parts of the vehicle
d. Diagnose various types of damage; including twists, mash, sag, and side sway.
e. Understand basic skills in straightening and body frame and wheel alignment
f. Ability to determine a rough estimate of damages based on labor time using both manual and
computerized estimating systems
Assignments: The grade for each student is based upon five items: project exam(s), progress charts,
student evaluation sheets, objective tests, and demonstration of competencies.
 An individual project is required. The instructor will offer a variety of suggestions, but the final
project is to be determined by the student in negotiation with the instructor. At that time the
criteria for evaluation will be determined. (25 percent)
 Progress charts: Charts reflecting the progression of students from one competency to another.
(10 percent)
 Student evaluation sheets: Used by the instructor to evaluate or rate work completed on a
project or work assignment. (10 percent)
 Objective tests: Tests given periodically covering material previously presented. (10 percent)
 Demonstration of competency: Students must be observed by the instructor and recorded on a
competency profile form. (45 percent)
Assessment: Instructors are expected to participate in the course assessment that is required by the
University.
Contact Information:
Instructor: Roger Cagle, Office Phone (501) 207-6222
Division Chair: Carroll Moody, Office Phone (501) 207-6206