Now's The Time For Qualitative Research To Make A Comeback…Here's Why
The Challenge of Defining and Measuring Student Success in Higher Education
Higher education institutions strive towards the goal of student success. It is evident that such a goal is an aspiration shared across the academic community, yet the challenge of defining, measuring, and structuring this success is still daunting. This challenge is particularly amplified in today's diverse learner population.
Defining student success is subjective, and it varies widely depending on individuals, institutions, and the programs of study. The traditional model of success in higher education has been based on students' academic achievements. However, the holistic approach to college has brought about expanded definitions of student success. Success can no longer be confined to academic achievements alone. It should incorporate social, emotional, and career development.
Measuring student success is another challenge. Common metrics of success have been graduation rates and employment after graduation. Although these metrics measure some aspects of success, they neglect students' personal development and growth. In education, there is a growing need for assessment practices that align with the new definition of student success, as well as the diverse population of learners.
Peter Drucker's statement, "If you can't measure it, you can't improve it," is a cornerstone of management theory and is commonly heard in academic and business circles. However, while it holds some truth, we believe that there is more to consider when it comes to measuring student success.
Statistical data, which provides quantitative insights, is undoubtedly informative. For example, enrollment numbers can reveal the size of a student population or how many students are enrolled in a particular program. However, relying solely on statistical data limits our understanding of the reasons behind those numbers.
That's where qualitative research comes in. Qualitative data is information that is subjective and cannot be measured. This type of data helps us to understand the reasons or motivations behind the enrollment numbers. For instance, how do students feel about their academic programs? What factors influenced their enrollment decisions? When we can answer these types of questions, we can get a more complete view of what is occurring and better understand why students make the choices they do.
Once we understand why students make certain choices, we can find ways to improve the educational experience for everyone involved. By using qualitative research to complement quantitative data, college administrators and faculty members can improve the design of their support systems or interventions.
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