ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of understanding the common sources of data within institutions of higher education so decision makers will know the type of information that is typically and expediently available and have a framework for determining the appropriateness of a data source. It provides practical suggestions and guidance for working with various data sources as well as several questions for discussion. The chapter also provides helpful information for contextualizing how the forces shape data collected within institutions. It discusses proposed changes within IPEDS Technical Review Panel meetings that are driven by "legislation, emerging areas of concern in postsecondary education. The chapter describes several steps related to identifying and vetting data sources. It discusses a process to determine the appropriate data source within an institution. Practical suggestions for determining quality and availability through working with others at an institution provide a framework for determining appropriate data sources.
