Data Collection
Service Learning and Civic Engagement: Indicators of Success for Michigan Campuses
A gathering of civic engagement professionals and their Institutional Research colleagues
Notes from Event
On July 16, 2008 seventy faculty, staff, and institutional researchers joined together at Alma College to discuss the necessity of tracking/collecting valuable data and learning outcomes from civic projects and involved students. Attendees separated into three groups to focus on the various needs and purposes for data collection among students, institutions and the community. The intention of these efforts is to promote understanding among campuses about data they can collect/are collecting and how to use it strategically - including use for a statewide effort to show impact on Michigan communities and college students.
The result was a discussion surrounding the need to shift from solely qualitative data to a more quantitative avenue for tracking service and service-learning. In order to do so, attendees identified possible indicators, modes for collection, as well as barriers to tracking the data. The event was successful in creating a committee of individuals, consisting of representatives from eight member institutions, to continue the process of embedding practical methods of data collection on our member campuses.