University of Olivet assessments are dedicated to continuous improvement of programs and services that develop responsible graduates with the competencies, orientations, and ethics to better themselves and others. Institutional Research is guided by the precept that the core of all improvement is learning based on systematic inquiry and evidence.

This culture of learning is best achieved in an environment of reflective assessment established on the same trust and values practiced in the classroom. Key to that trust is honesty, supported by the values of objectivity and of inquiry aimed at understanding. In all of this, University of Olivet assessments are sensitive to the needs of individuals and of a dynamic, diverse society.

All institutional research at University of Olivet is guided by the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (APA, 2003) and the Association for Institutional Research’s (2001) Code of Ethics for Institutional Research. The security and confidentiality of all data is assured by Institutional Research and Assessment, the President of the College, and all college personnel participating in data collection or reporting. All data is treated as sensitive and is handled congruent with FERPA by institutional personnel only as is needed to fulfill their job expectations. Student responses are never reported back to teachers, advisors, or other students. Surveys, for example, are always shredded after data is collated and secured.

Those not performing institutional research should obtain the permission of the President of the college or their supervising vice president. All individuals are bound by the ethical principles of their profession, of institutional research at University of Olivet, and the principles of responsible use of results governing all users of this site and institutional research data.

Major activities involve: a) data mining for causes of retention, excellence, graduation, and post-graduate success of students; b) overseeing external reporting and data requests ( e.g.,  IPEDS); and c) monitoring federal, state, and accrediting requirements, including required disclosures.

We prepare special and regular reports in conjunction with and for the President and the Cabinet. This includes the summaries of the college’s primary outcomes and national and regional benchmarks. Institutional research also reports findings to various college personnel, committees, and decision-makers .

Institutional Research and Assessment consults on all matters of efficient data collection and interpretation, including database, survey, and research design. Projects range from assistance with assessment design and automation, to measurement creation, standardization, and validation, and statistical analyses.

We prepare reports for committees, departments, and others who evaluate and design services and programs. Each year, outcomes are produced for unit/departmental yearly reports, showing mean performance, variability, and numbers or percentages of samples that achieving specified standards in their Assessment Plans.