The Other 85 Percent

More on Measuring Up

December 15, 2008 | Filed under: Capella, Capella University, Chronicle of Higher Education, Mike Offerman, The Other 85 Percent, Transparency by Design, academics, college degree, continuing education, distance learning, elearning, higher education, online education, online learning, online university

In a previous post, I questioned what Measuring Up actually measures and whether the message to state policymakers was off-base because it fails to acknowledge the contributions of cross-border online institutions, particularly in providing higher education opportunities to adults.  Clearly, those involved in Measuring Up understand that there are issues with data. Dennis Jones of the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS) offers his thoughts about data limitations or even the non-existence of some important data.

Jones notes that voluntary systems are creating more openness and helping institutions identify improvements but is concerned that the data sets don’t provide many states with complete information.  Transparency by Design is one of these voluntary efforts.  It is being lead by Capella but involves a number of adult-serving, cross-border, online programs and universities.  We have a deep interest in working with the states because we have much to offer and would like to see the states recognize the work we are doing and the opportunities we offer.  And, Transparency by Design is working with NCHEMS to help assure that the data and information we provide to prospective adult students is the right data. 

The work that the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education (the Measuring Up folks) and NCHEMS are doing is important.  The Transparency by Design institutions stand ready to help make that work even better because we are dedicated to adult students, transparency, and improved understanding of the complex contemporary world of higher education.

I think that is important. What do you think? I look forward to reading your comments.

Mike

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