Big Data on Campus: Data Analytics and Decision Making in Higher Education

Data-informed decision-making can help colleges and universities become more effective institutions by leveraging data to make sound decisions. This book discusses the role of analytics in higher education administration, including admission decisions, retention and enrollment management, student life and engagement, academic and career advising, student learning and assessment, and academic program planning.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2020
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

The importance of data-informed decision-making in higher education is increasingly recognized by leaders in the field. With a multitude of challenges facing colleges and universities, including rising operating costs, declining state support, tuition caps, and increased competition from the for-profit sector, leveraging data to make sound decisions has become crucial. In Big Data on Campus, leading data analytics experts and higher education leaders showcase the role that analytics can play in improving the administration of colleges and universities.

The book, aimed at senior administrative leaders, practitioners of institutional research, technology professionals, and graduate students in higher education, provides a comprehensive exploration of the roles that data analytics can play in higher education administration. It begins with a conceptual discussion of the various ways in which analytics can be applied, including admission decisions, retention and enrollment management, financial aid, student success, and academic program evaluation.

Subsequent chapters delve into recent technological developments, the rapid accumulation of data assets, organizational maturity in building analytical capabilities, and methodological advancements in developing predictive and prescriptive analytics. Each chapter includes a literature review of the research and application of analytics developments in their respective functional areas, a discussion of industry trends, examples of the application of data analytics in decision-making processes, and other relevant issues that readers may wish to consider in their own organizational environments.

Through a series of focused discussions and case studies, Big Data on Campus helps readers understand how analytics can support major organizational functions in higher education, including admission decisions, retention and enrollment management, financial aid, student success, and academic program evaluation. By leveraging data, higher education institutions can gain a competitive advantage, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately enhance the student experience.

As the volume of data generated by colleges and universities continues to grow, the importance of data-informed decision-making will only increase. By embracing analytics, higher education leaders can position their institutions for success in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 238 x 160 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421439037