The glossary has been compiled to help promote an awareness and use of a common language of terms, definitions, and procedures at the institutional, state, and national levels. It is intended for use as a reference for those who exchange or collect information throughout postsecondary education, especially those who deal with data in institutions,…

A major change in the pattern of U.S. research on higher education is occurring, characterized by more emphasis on state policy, institutional type, and issues shared by institutions. Methodology is broadening to include more historic, ethnographic, and qualitative research as well as quantitative study. (MSE)

Grounded theory, generated from data systematically obtained through the constant comparative method, is suggested as a research strategy for higher education. Greater emphasis is placed on qualitative data while using quantitative data when obtainable and pertinent. Higher education research can thereby be redirected to development of theory.…

The National Longitudinal Study (NLS) sample and data collection efforts are described and the nature of information available for each data collection effort is briefly reviewed. Possible implications and limitations that the NLS database has for use in graduate training programs in higher education are also investigated. (SF)

This paper discusses the importance of pilot studies in the development and implementation of a research project, focusing on the use of a pilot study to revise conceptual and methodological issues in dissertation research on higher education leadership. It examines the hermeneutic circle, as described by M. Heidegger, that stresses the importance…

This update of an earlier glossary has been compiled to help promote awareness and use of a common language of terms, definitions, and procedures at the institutional, state, and national levels in postsecondary education. It is intended for use as a reference for those who exchange or collect information throughout postsecondary education,…

An analysis of the role and functions of the United Kingdom's newly-implemented Higher Education Statistics Agency looks at key features of the data collection and storage system, including its comprehensiveness, new record structure, capability for tracking individuals, data categories and coding, quality of data, and data accessibility. Despite…

This glossary is designed to promote awareness and use of a common language of terms, definitions, and procedures concerning postsecondary education at the institutional, state, and national levels. It may be especially useful to those who deal with data in institutions, governmental agencies, and educational associations. The alphabetically…