Predictive and real-time data analysis can elevate student success. An estimated 1,400 colleges in the United States have embraced predictive analytics — relying on past data to predict how students will perform and act in the future — to take steps to retain and graduate them.
While data analyses can pave the way for effective student-success initiatives that return the investment, they run the risk of being detrimental if not done ethically and with careful consideration of context and outside factors at play.
Administrators and faculty members should be trained to recognize biases in certain data and be clear in communications with students. Making sure faculty members are data literate also will help ensure that data is understood and used properly.
Using Student Data Responsibly covers how institutions can collect, protect, analyze, and act on student data in a responsible way and offers advice on what existing resources colleges can use to further serve students and promote student success.
