Leveraging Information Resources to Improve Undergraduate Retention and Graduation Rates

Presentation Summary

Christina Klawitter, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Kathy Luker, Consultant--Office of Quality Improvement

The University of Wisconsin System has set a goal to graduate 30% more students per year by 2025. In support of this goal, a team of end users, data experts and query writers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus has collaboratively developed queries and analytic tools which support decision-making and retention-focused advising interventions. Previously, certain student populations were difficult to identify, including returning students, students without majors, and students nearing graduation; and academic performance trends among the most at risk student populations were not easily discernable. The presenters will discuss the value of utilizing a cross-functional team to develop data resources aimed at improving retention-related business practices such as identification of various at risk cohorts, student communications, intrusive advising strategies, and the development of College policies.