Institutional Research, Planning and Assessment

National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE)

The National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) is an annual national survey designed to measure the “extent to which students and institutions are engaging in… effective teaching and learning activities.”  The data gathered from the NSSE can be used for such activities as assessment and improvement, benchmarking, accreditation and self-studies, retention, and strategic planning. 

Rose-Hulman freshman and senior students have participated in the NSSE seven times, while our faculty members participate in the FSSE (Faculty Survey of Student Engagement) for the first time in 2007.  We are on a biannual NSSE survey schedule and will participate once again during the 2011-2012 academic year in order to remain in the cycle for the AITU consortium comparison.  A full explanation of results from the 2008-2009 NSSE/FSSE are available in the IRPA office. 

Some of the highlights from the 2009 survey include:

  • RHIT students perform teamwork tasks more frequently than students in comparison groups.  As an Institution, RHIT emphasizes teamwork tasks significanlty more than other institutions in comparison groups.
  • RHIT students participated in service learning less frequently than students in comparison groups, leaving room for improvement.
  • As an Institution, RHIT continues to contribute to student learning of technical knowledge items more than other institutions in the AITU consortium.
  • In terms of educational experience, more RHIT students participate in practicum experiences more than students in comparison groups.
  • Fewer students plan to participate in study abroad experiences than students in comparison groups, however.
  • In terms of educational environment, RHIT provides mroe support to students than other institutions in comparison groups.

For more information about Rose-Hulman student data a special parent report has been prepared.  It along with the NSSE generated Student Experience in Brief and NSSE survey can help parents and othere external audiences gain a better understanding of the student experience at Rose.  For more information about the NSSE in general visit their website.

 

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