Data Classification and Definitions

We believe that it is important to provide a transparent and well-defined methodology for the reporting and analytics that we produce.  This ensures that our work is of high quality, easy to understand, and reproducible. 

Data Quality Practices

Shippensburg has a plan for data management—our system for collecting, cleaning, storing, monitoring, reviewing, and reporting of student data. Quality assurance aims to assure that the data were, in fact, collected in accordance with procedures required by all stakeholders, such as U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Post-Secondary Data System (IPEDS) and the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, and that the data is stored securely and meets the requisite standards of quality. Inter-office collaboration occurs among functional areas to ensure data collected is coded in a manner that will allow tracking and reporting functionality.  To ensure posted student outcomes are accurate, data auditing first occurs at the functional (detail) level with the assistance of student information system reports aimed at identifying possible data inconsistencies. That data goes through another level of edit checking prior to submission and/or external release and is cross-verified with aggregate summary data.

Data Classification

Shippensburg University has set forth a data classification policy that establishes direction regarding the privacy, security, integrity, and availability of Shippensburg University data, and the responsibilities of institutional units and individuals for such data. The policy applies to all SU faculty, staff, students, visitors, contractors, and volunteers.  For more information about data classification, visit the Data Classifications page.

Data Definitions

There are several terms and metrics used throughout the reports produced by The Office of Educational Intelligence and Technology, all of which are defined in the Shippensburg University Data Definitions Document.  This document contains a list of the terms and business metrics, along with their definitions, and is actively maintained by the university data governance committee.  The definitions in the document are based on guidelines set forth by the State System and are used as a common framework to consistently define the business practices across Shippensburg University.

For more information about common data definitions used across the State System,  please visit the State System DataCookbook site.  If you have a specific question about a certain term or definition, or if you need access to DataCookbook site, please contacting the IR helpdesk.