For almost 20 years, Open Educational Resources (OER) are an integral part of the debate about the digitisation of education. However, the empirical landscape of OER research is vivid and largely obscure. This article reviews the state of international empirical research on OER to reveal trends and gaps and, in this manner, identify possible…

This chapter will value of including diverse voices of researchers. An innovative, cost-effective model for assessment will be described, capturing the process implemented at a university in its efforts to center social justice within assessment and evaluation research practices.

Franchising degrees to overseas providers, normally for-profit private companies, has become big business for English universities. The latest data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency reveal that there are now more international students registered for the awards of English higher education institutions that are studying wholly offshore…

Sponsored by the Association for Education Finance and Policy (AEFP), the second edition of this groundbreaking handbook assembles in one place the existing research-based knowledge in education finance and policy, with particular attention to elementary and secondary education. Chapters from the first edition have been fully updated and revised…

The use of Web-administered surveys by colleges and universities is becoming more prevalent as the Web mode can be more cost efficient and less intrusive on class time than the traditional paper-pencil mode. The purpose of this study was to compare several potential survey issues by mode to see if the Web mode was as viable an approach as the more…

Presents a detailed research approach, designed for higher institutions, to evaluate their program effectiveness, with respect to students' personal and intellectual growth, and the cost involved. Helps the institutions to make more informed decisions regarding their priorities. (GA)

In a randomized clinical trial, a researcher can increase statistical power by including a covariate (or pretest) to reduce participants; however, this raises the cost per participant. A simple closed form expression is derived that applied researchers can use to answer the cost/benefit question. (JPS)

The techniques for calculating marginal costs in higher education are examined in detail. Marginal costs, as defined in economics, is the change in total cost associated with producing one additional unit of output. In higher education, the most frequently selected unit of output is a full-time-equivalent student or, alternatively, a student…

A synthesis of empirical research on the effects of scale (enrollment size) on average cost per student in higher education using a meta-analytic approach is presented. Results are reported for two-year colleges, four-year colleges, and universities, and for expenditures in several areas including instruction and administration. (Author/MLW)

Comparing an institution's fund-raising cash proceeds with other institutions' is straightforward, using readily available data. However, measuring fund-raising productivity requires care in defining related expenses and resulting fund-raising achievements. Simplifying assumptions can be helpful. (Author/MSE)

A study of periodicals usage conducted at I.D. Weeks Library, University of South Dakota, used computerized databases to isolate journals important to individual departments and establish criteria for periodical subscription budget cuts. Three search methods used and costs incurred are outlined. Four references and search examples are provided.…

Examines the state of cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis in education, first examining the progress that has been made in these fields in the health and medical sectors. Explores one outstanding example of cost-benefit analysis and critiques four other educational evaluations. Synthesizes strengths of cost-effectiveness analysis in…

FAX technology was used to send surveys to professionals at 25 higher education institutions whereas professionals at 25 more institutions received mail surveys. Follow-up responses were sent by FAX and mail. Response rates (overall rate of 40%) were best for those receiving surveys and reminders by FAX. Cost effectiveness is discussed. (SLD)

Applying prospect research techniques to donors on the college or university annual fund rolls can be effective without high cost. Simple segmenting can be done by manipulating existing computer files, as illustrated by the experience of a number of institutions. Using commercial analysis services can also be cost effective. (MSE)

As more colleges and universities coordinate institutional research as a support system for long-range planning, new analytical tools become necessary. A system developed in Massachusetts to project the effect of statewide policy alternatives may have wide applicability to other institutions and to multi-institutional planning groups. (Author)