Processes (P)

7P3 Determining Needs and Priorities for Comparative Information and Data

Comparative data are used throughout the institution. For example, academic departments use comparative data to evaluate programs (1P8). Comparative data are used for institutional accreditation and processes. Data are selected to support and improve institutional strategic commitments such as applied learning and service.

The institution has identified a set of peer institutions with which it compares program and institutional data (O1). The process for assessing, identifying, and obtaining comparative data for use in the benchmarking activities of institutional projects is currently being developed and will involve cooperative data- sharing agreements with peer institutions.

The comparative data most often used by departments and units are normative data provided by the vendors of the many proprietary assessment tools. Many other indicators are available annually and throughout the year, such as data regarding exit exams, job placements, licensure or certification receipt of students, expenditures of peer institutions, and academic policies.