HIED-801 Foundations of Institutional Research

 

                                    Course Reflection

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This course has taught me about the core value and key role that institutional research plays within an organization as they carry out effective reporting techniques. The lessons’ content and assignments have helped further my knowledge and confidence ability to better understand and analyze basic data results and be able to communicate informational needs effectively to researchers.

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I have learned how to use and identify different data sources, including national databases to perform basic formula-based predictions using time trends and regression models to predict actual outcomes, while incorporating expert intuition that aligns with insights from previous research. In addition, I learned to identify gaps and areas in need of improvement to advance institutional goals, and to better monitor organizational accountability by learning how to relate and compare performance indicators to the organization's objectives.

Most importantly, I am grateful to have learned how to present basic research findings and to critically examine and interpret basic results while recognizing the potential rise of ethical concerns. Although there is still much to learn in the IR field, as a future Administrator Professional, I feel I have gained a good foundation and knowledge related to analysis and reporting in the higher education setting. There is no doubt that this course has contributed to my enrichment and understanding of concepts, methodologies, research practices and information systems that support institutional decision making. But most of all, I believe I have been provided with one of the main tools to help me continue to build upon my personal education and career goals.