* * * * * * * * * * * * * The Electronic AIR * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Electronic Newsletter * * of the Association for Institutional Research (AIR) * * Serving Institutional Research Professionals * * and those Engaged in Mgt. Research, Policy Analysis & Planning * * * * July 22, 1994. . . . . . . . . . .Volume 14, Number 12 * * Part B * * Editor - Larry Nelson, Pacific Lutheran University * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Current Subscribers = 1244 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * TABLE OF CONTENTS * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWS - Statistics Canada Daily Information List Announced * * NEWS - Electronic Services of NCRVE * * HELP RESPONSE SUMMARY - Software for Custom Op-Scan Questionnaires * * HELP - University President Seeks to Identify "Cutting Edge" Issues * * HELP - Statistical Technique for Attrition Forecast Model * * HELP - Seeking Information on Institutional Research Job Market * * HELP - Institutional Organizational Structure Information Sought * * POSITION LISTING - North Carolina Central University (NC) * * POSITION LISTING - University of Southern Maine (ME) * * POSITION LISTING - University of Wisconsin System (WI) * * POSITION LISTING - University of Wisconsin - Madison (WI) * * POSITION LISTING - Portland Community College (OR) * * PARTING THOUGHT * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWS - Statistics Canada Daily Information List Announced * * Reprinted From: New List Announcements * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Daily is the vehicle for first (official) release of statistical data and publications produced by Statistics Canada. It provides analysis of newly released data along with source information for more detailed facts. As well, it announces the availability of electronic products and new services from Statistics Canada. The Daily is published every business day. To subscribe to the list, send a message to listproc@statcan.ca with the subject line blank and the body of the message containing: subscribe daily Firstname Lastname * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWS - Electronic Services of NCRVE * * Reprinted From: Educational Research List * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * On Vocserve: VocServe is NCRVE's electronic bulletin board system, featuring on-line forums, publications for reading on-line or downloading, real-time conferencing, and private e-mail. VocServe can be reached by modem (510-643-6793) or the Internet (telnet vocserve.berkeley.edu). An area devoted to materials from ERIC/ACVE (the ERIC Clearinghouse for Adult, Career, and Vocational Education) was inaugurated in June. For now, the four most recent ERIC Digests from ERIC/ACVE are available for reading on-line or downloading. More materials will be added soon. On Vocnet: VOCNET is NCRVE's listserv discussion group, accessible to anyone with Internet e-mail capability. To subscribe, Jane Doe would send the following one-line e-mail message to listserv@cmsa.berkeley.edu: subscribe vocnet Jane Doe For more information on VocServe, VOCNET, or NCRVE in general, contact David Carlson at NCRVE (dcarlson@uclink.berkeley.edu or 800-762-4093). * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * HELP RESPONSE SUMMARY - Software for Custom Op-Scan Questionnaires * * Linda Suskie, MIllersville University * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Almost a year ago (last August), I put a request in the Electronic AIR for information from people who had used any of the software packages used to develop custom op-scan questionnaires. I'd like to belatedly report that I got practically no response at all, other than notes from other people who were interested in whatever I learned! What I can report is the names and phone numbers of five publishers of this type of software: SCANSURVEY by Scantron Corp. (800-421-5066) FORMPRO by Beach Tech Corp. (800-733-3684) SurveyFirst by Raosoft (206-525-4025) Survey Pro by Apian Software (415-694-2900) Questar Data Systems, Inc. (612-688-0089) * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * HELP - University President Seeks to Identify "Cutting Edge" Issues * * Judith Ramaley, Portland State University * * Reprinted From: HEPROC-L * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Editor's Note: I have corresponded with Dr. Ramaley and offered to post her message here saying that Institutional Researchers are among those most aware of the "cutting edge" issues. She agreed to the posting and awaits comments, ideas and suggestions from those of you who may be able to offer help. - - - - - I have been following the discussions on HEPROC-L about such things as three year baccalaureates, true/false tests, collaborative learning and the like and have decided that I do not need to know the details of the discussion about these issues. As a university President, however, I do need to know what issues are emerging in the academy and where the controversial or interesting discussions are taking place. I am interested in the opinions of HEPROC-L participants on the following questions: 1. What do you think the most important questions are that face higher education in the next couple of years? Some of the topics I would think to include are rethinking of the structure and purposes of an undergraduate education, the doctorate (who are we educating and for what?), the financing of public higher education, tuition policy( high tuition/high aid vs. moderate tuition policy, i.e. who pays and who benefits ?), public accountability, the measurement of the community impact of higher educational institutions, the rethinking of campus operations, academic productivity (what is it and how do you enhance it?) etc. 2. Where is the best thinking going on about these issues? 3. How can a President tap into these conversations/debates without being swamped in detail? What I really need is a sort of "Presidents Digest" of the best thinking going on in the areas that are most likely to transform our enterprise. Most of what I see are either opinion pieces, or very detailed debates and disagreements or scholarly articles that are difficult to relate to the major challenges I face. Anybody have any ideas about where a well-meaning but busy CEO can turn for good ideas and a sense of the issues? Dr. Judith Ramaley, President Portland State University P.O. Box 751 Portland, OR 97207-0751 E-Mail: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * HELP - Statistical Technique for Attrition Forecast Model * * Larry Nelson, Pacific Lutheran University * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * A colleague and I are trying to develop a statistical forecasting model that we can use to predict attrition among entering Freshmen at Pacific Lutheran University. We want to analyze data from our student database for past cohorts of new entering Freshman to identify which of these available data are most powerfully associated with student persistence or non-persistence (defined as whether or not the entering Freshman is enrolled at PLU again the following fall semester). Preliminary analysis of data from one past cohort suggests that SAT Verbal, SAT Composite, high school cumulative gpa, and age are strongly correlated with student persistence. However, we are having trouble identifying an appropriate statistical method to use to analyze data on these independent variables for past cohorts whose persistence outcomes are known so that it can be applied to data on the same independent variables for *future* entering cohorts to *forecast* the persistence outcomes for each individual student. Our goal is to develop a method for such forecasting and to be able to provide staff in our Student Retention Office with a list of specific students from a new cohort of incoming Freshmen who are most likely to not return the following Fall semester. Such students would then be subject to a variety of early interventions aimed at trying to change the forecast outcome that they would not return the following Fall. Any suggestions that readers might have to offer as to an appropriate statistical method would be most welcome. I would also love to receive copies (electronic or on paper) of studies you may have on this topic. Suggested references in the literature would also be appreciated. Thanks in advance. Larry Nelson, Director Institutional Research & Planning Pacific Lutheran University Tacoma, WA 98447 Phone: (206) 535-7444; FAX: (206) 535-8320 E-Mail: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * HELP - Seeking Information on Institutional Research Job Market * * Darrell Glenn, Providence College * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I am an economist seriously considering beginning a career in Institutional Research. I have joined AIR, subscribe to this electronic newsletter, and plan to attend the Institute this August at Northern Kentucky University. What I really need now is some information from people who have recent experience in the job market, either in filling a vacancy or looking for a job. My questions include, but are not limited to: How many applicants typically apply to an ad in the Chronicle? How hard (or easy) is it for schools to find well-qualified applicants? Which skills are the most highly valued or scarce? Do you have any suggestions for a job-seeker? Any replies would be welcome. Thank you. Darrell Glenn Economics Department Providence College Providence, RI 02918 Phone: (401) 865-2882, Fax: (401) 865-1222 E-Mail: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * HELP - Institutional Organizational Structure Information Sought * * Robert Wilkinson, Pittsburgh St. Univ. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Pittsburg State University has appointed a task force to examine the organizational structure of the university and make recommendations for possible reorganization. To facilitate this activity, I am interested in obtaining information from other institutions. I am interested in the following: 1. Organizational charts. 2. Services which have been out-sourced (contracted out). 3. Types of data/information used to study organizational structure. 4. Anything else any one feels like providing/sharing. I am also interested in locating regional institutions which have "rotating" department chairpersons. I will be more than happy to provide copies of the materials collected to anybody who desires. Robert Wilkinson, Director Institutional Research Pittsburg State University Pittsburg, KS 66762 Phone: (316) 235-4132 E-Mail: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * POSITION LISTING - North Carolina Central University (NC) * * Linda Pratt, North Carolina Central University * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Director of Institutional Studies North Carolina Central University is searching for a Director of Institutional Studies. The Director is responsible for coordinating federal and state reporting, updating the factbook on an annual basis, completing reports for outside agencies, responding to internal data requests, serving on relevant university committees and completing special research projects. Candidates should have a master's degree and a minimum of three years experience in institutional research. Candidates with a doctorate in Educational Research, Psychology, Sociology, or other appropriate research field, and experience with SAS, SPSS or other statistical packages will be given special consideration. Preference will be given to candidates with experience completing the UNC system reports and files. AA/EOE. The university complies with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. All new employees must provide original documents verifying identity and employability within the first three days of employment with the University. The position is available August 1, 1994. Salary is competitive and will be based on the successful candidate's experience and training. Send resumes and other information to: Linda K. Pratt Assoc. Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for Research, Evaluation and Planning 217 Taylor Education Building North Carolina Central University 1801 Fayetteville St. Durham, NC 27707 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * POSITION LISTING - University of Southern Maine (ME) * * LARRY BRAZIEL, Univ. Of S. Maine * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Computer Applications Programmer The University of Southern Maine is seeking a computer applications programmer. The Programmer assists with the analysis of systems and processes, programs and develops difficult and complex computer applications, and serves as a resource for the development of management reports and systems. Programmer also serves as the resident expert for several data base management software packages and supports the users of these packages. MIS is part application development and part IR at the University of Southern Maine. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled. USM is an EEO/AA employer, committed to diversity, quality and reasonable accommodation. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in computer science and one (1) year of programming work experience required. Working experience with one of the following mainframe database/applications packages: NOMAD2, Natural, Benefactor, ISIS, SAS; experience with micro- computer applications such as: QPRO, WordPerfect, FoxBase Plus (Foxpro), Turbo C++, or similar micro applications; and experience with local area network management preferred. Send cover letter, resume, and names of three references to: Larry Braziel, Search Chair RE: 105 University of Southern Maine 96 Falmouth Street Portland, Maine 04103 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * POSITION LISTING - University of Wisconsin System (WI) * * Becky Myton, U of Wisconsin System * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Policy and Planning Analyst The University of Wisconsin System is currently seeking applications for an experienced analyst to join its Office of Policy Analysis and Research. The UW System is one of the nation's premier systems of public higher education, with a headcount enrollment of approximately 155,000 in Fall 1993. The UW System has had in place for 20 years a student and curricular information system to facilitate a variety of systemwide management and policy studies. Among its other activities, the Office of Policy Analysis and Research prepares and publishes a series of Occasional Research Briefs on such diverse topics as student retention and graduation, faculty teaching loads, and student financial aid. Duties: This position will provide research and analytic support to UW System Administration in the areas of budget planning, costing, and human resources (faculty and academic staff) primarily through utilization of large data files, but also through the use of secondary data sources. Examples of projects include: analysis and projection of student fee revenues; faculty and staff compensation studies including faculty peer comparisons and cost of living analyses; and analyses of instructional costs. The appointee will also represent UW System and the Office of Policy Analysis and Research on internal and external committees and projects. Qualifications: The successful candidate will possess both a knowledge of the conceptual and policy issues related to the above duties and the ability to access large data bases for analytical purposes. An earned doctorate in higher education, social science, or related field or equivalent professional experience is required. Three or more years related to the duties described above is also required, preferably at a system- or state-level. Other essential characteristics include strong organizational, written, quantitative, and oral skills; demonstrated ability to bring complex projects to a successful completion the ability to thrive under pressure and short deadlines; accuracy and attention to detail; and the ability to work well with others in a collegial environment. Experience with SAS is a plus. Compensation: Salary will be in the $40Ks. The UW System offers an excellent benefits and retirement package. The preferred starting date for this position is October/November, 1994. Application Deadline: Applications must be received by August 22, 1994 to be considered. Interested individuals should send a cover letter addressing the qualifications described above, a resume, and the names of at least three references (including addresses and telephone numbers) to: Dr. Daniel Layzell Office of Policy Analysis and Research The University of Wisconsin System 1532 Van Hise Hall, 1220 Linden Drive Madison, WI 53706 The University of Wisconsin System actively seeks applications from women and minorities. Under a court approved settlement and Wisconsin Statutes, we are required to provide a list of all nominees and applicants who have not requested in writing that their identity not be revealed. Persons agreeing to be final candidates will have their identity revealed as a final candidate. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * POSITION LISTING - University of Wisconsin-Madison (WI) * * Reprinted From: ASHE-L * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Administrative Program Specialist Internal Consultant - Quality Improvement The University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking a 75-100% position to serve as internal consultant for the Office of Quality Improvement. The position will be responsible for working with leaders and staff throughout campus to implement quality improvement approaches into their work areas. This will include strategic planning, data collection and analysis, use of quality tools, guiding major projects, documenting learning, and developing and delivering materials and training offerings. This position reports to the Director of the Office of Quality Improvement, who reports to the Provost. Qualified applicants must have a bachelor's degree and a minimum of three years experience implementing quality in organizations, preferably in higher education. Applicants must have exceptional analytical, oral, written and interpersonal skills, and proven knowledge of total quality management concepts and methods. Applicants should be able to demonstrate successful experience and effectiveness in implementation efforts, including strategic planning, quality tools, statistical methods, and/or project teams. To ensure consideration, applicants should submit a narrative letter describing how their professional experience specifically relates to the listed position qualifications and a detailed resume to: Kristie Nielson Office of Quality Improvement University of Wisconsin - Madison Room 199 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive Madison, WI 53706-1380 Phone: (608) 262-9261, FAX: (608) 263-2081 E-Mail: Note: Application must be postmarked no later than July 29, 1994. Unless confidentiality is requested in writing, information regarding the applicants must be released upon request. Finalists cannot be guaranteed confidentiality. AA/EOE * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * POSITION LISTING - Portland Community College (OR) * * Susan Bach, Portland CC * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Research Evaluation Coordinator - Institutional Research Full time position opens July 26. Closing date for applications is anticipated to be August 16. Master's degree in field related to education with coursework in research methodology, evaluation, and/or assessment. Minimum three years experience in higher education that includes work related to institutional research, program assessment, special studies, and/or federal and state reporting. Applicants should demonstrate responsibility for conducting research activities, including project design, analysis and interpretation of data, and presentation of results. Proficiency with microcomputer applications (including SPSS, SAS or comparable statistical software) required. This position is responsible for coordinating data collection, assessment activities, and special studies that provide information for improvement of college programs and services and ensure college compliance with federal and state reporting requirements. Starting salary: $29,100 - $31,100. Expected start date is October 1 or as soon as qualified candidate is selected. For information and application materials, contact: Staff Employment Portland Community College PO Box 19000 Portland, OR 97280-0990 Phone: (503) 273-2823; FAX: (503) 222-0164 TDD: (503) 273-2908 Questions regarding the position and the IR office at Portland Community College may also be directed (after July 26) to: Susan Bach Director, Institutional Research Portland Community College Phone: (503) 244-6111, x2383 E-Mail: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * PARTING THOUGHT * * Larry Nelson, Pacific Lutheran University * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Reader contributions of possible future "Parting Thoughts" are welcome. Send them to Larry Nelson . Today's thought is from the July 13 thought on the Thought for the Day list . If you have to swallow a frog, try not to think about it. If you have to swallow two frogs, don't swallow the smaller one first. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * If you have AIR news, send it to Larry Nelson, Editor, at: * * (Pacific Lutheran University). * * (Please limit submissions to 72 characters or fewer per line and * * use mixed case, NOT ALL CAPS--NO NEED TO SHOUT.) * * If you have news for the SCUP electronic newsletter, send it to * * or . * * For further information regarding individual or organizational * * membership in the Association for Institutional Research, contact * * Terrence Russell, Executive Director, AIR, 314 Stone Bldg., * * Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-3038 * * Telephone: (904) 644-4470 or on Internet: . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *