Miami University results in National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE)

Colleges and Universities A-Z Miami University - Ohio
1

<p>Howdy folks! A proud Miami alum here. I don't know how many of the prospective students and parents out there are familiar with the NSSE, but it is a consortium of universities throughout the US (most universities/colleges participate) that provide survey data regarding how each school is RANKED BY THE STUDENTS THEMSELVES (first years and seniors specifically) in various measures relative to peer institutions; the goal being to help schools more effectively prepare their students and identify areas requiring improvement. This is completely different from US News and other reports that focus on SAT scores and other such measurements. I post this information not only because Miami U ranks well in these rankings, but because it is something you should research for all of the schools you are considering. along with all the other information you gather. Note that schools have the right to decline providing you with NSSE information. I have included a link to the NSSE web site plus Miami and USA Today press release summarizing Miami results. Cut and paste into your browser. Note that Miami is listed under the 'research universities' section of the USA Today web site. Good luck with your college search!</p>

<p>NSSE</a> 2007 Annual Report      
Miami</a> University News: News Release
How</a> to make NSSE scores work for you - USATODAY.com</p>

2

<p>fminze:</p>

<p>Excellent information! The USA Today article (Beyond</a> rankings: A new way to look for a college) also references this research:</p>

<p>
[quote]
...Admissions officials have long grumbled about rankings. But this year the rancor has developed into something resembling rebellion. Dozens of college presidents have vowed to not participate in U.S. News surveys and to not promote their status in the rankings. </p>

<p>They have lots of complaints, but mostly, the argument is that U.S. News rankings focus on the wrong things — wealth, prestige and exclusivity — and mask the characteristics that make each institution distinctive, such as its mission, the types of students it attracts and the resources it has available. </p>

<p>NSSE, in contrast, is "about trying to get people to talk about things that matter," says NSSE director George Kuh, an Indiana University education professor. </p>

<p>Perhaps even more, he suggests, NSSE challenges the rankings-driven notion that only a sliver of colleges are worthy of consideration. "There are many innovative programs being offered today, often at a college or university right around the corner," he says...

[/quote]
</p>