<p>The National Survey of Student Engagement has been a passing topic on several other threads. I just discovered that US News has made available the results of the NSSE for a <em>very</em> large number of participating institutions:</p>
<p>This is fascinating readingfar more informative in my mind than the US News Rankings themselves. For those unfamiliar with the NSSE methodology, seniors respond to questions about real outcomes, for example:</p>
<p>How often have you discussed ideas from readings or classes with faculty outside of class? During the current school year how many papers of fewer than 5 pages have you written? Papers between 5 and 19 pages? 20 pages or more? Have you done a research project with a faculty member outside a course requirement? How many hours do you spend in a typical week preparing for class? What best describes your relationship with faculty members: unsupportive/sense of alienation to supportive/sense of belonging (scale of 1-7)? And much more. </p>
<p>Ill refrain from commenting on individual institutions, but Ive been looking at the stats for LACs, Ds interest, and one school that I was initially impressed with has really taken a nosedive in my estimation. There are a few schoolsmostly those with anecdotal reputations for academic qualitythat get strong confirmation that the word on the street is deserved, along with a few surprises!</p>