WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE DATA?

The information from this study will be used in several ways. First, your answers will be combined with those of others at Kent State University, analyzed and summarized in the aggregate. We will be able to examine the information in different ways; for example, to learn about the experiences of women and men or the experiences of students in different major fields. This is extremely valuable information because most schools do not have good information about how students spend their time and what they think of their institution. With this information in hand it is possible for people at Kent State University to identify areas where, with some adjustments, the student experience can be improved. In other words, the more we know about our students and what they think of the institution, the more likely it is that faculty, academic and student life administrators and others can take appropriate action.

Another way the information you provide will be used, is in comparisons with other schools that are more or less like ours. This isn't done very often, primarily because comparable information across institutions does not exist. Finally, a set of national benchmarks will be established for different types of institutions. A benchmark is a level of performance, reflecting an area of practice (in this case, educational practice) that potential consumers, customers, or others use to determine the quality of a product, service, or educational institution. The for-profit sector has used benchmarking practices for years and your answers to the National Survey of Student Engagement will allow our school as well as other colleges and universities across the country to do this.