As an authoritative source of institutional data, we take our role seriously and perform it diligently.
Accuracy
- We review institutional data sets regularly and validate new data sets thoroughly.
- We reach out to data overseers when inaccuracies are observed to confirm data fields are collected, updated, and accurately maintained.
- We coordinate with data overseers to verify responses to external surveys and questionnaires.
Completeness
- We maintain files to track and observe trends over time.
- We cross-check data sets against multiple data sources whenever possible.
- We take into consideration any additional data fields necessary to provide relevant context.
Consistency
- We develop standardized queries for data extracts needed on a continual or regular basis.
- We include tables in the fact book appendices and publicly on the website to provide a consistent reference and comparison of reported data.
- We serve as primary contact with respect to reporting for state and federal agencies (such as IPEDS) and several professional organizations.
Offices such as Institutional Research are in a unique position of being both “in the weeds” and having a “10,000-foot view.” The high-level perspective means we are familiar with available data sources, such as administered surveys asking about a sense of belonging. The detailed perspective means we are familiar with our data and reporting nuances, such as allowable exclusions.
Often what are perceived to be data discrepancies are really a matter of definition. As a result, we strive to include and clarify data definitions as much as possible.