Information: The Center serves as a clearinghouse for information about the university's people, programs, resources, and external environment. Center staff coordinate the university's reporting to federal and state agencies, respond to requests for information from within and outside the university, participate in inter-institutional data exchanges, and maintain a website for profile data about Case.
Research and Policy Analysis: The Center uses the data it collects to provide analytical support for planning and decision-making at the university. In addition, the Center conducts student surveys to track longitudinal trends and assess institutional goals and objectives. At the request of the university's administration, Center staff may also undertake special studies or develop models for planning purposes.
Outcomes Assessment: As a component of its research activity, the Center provides coordination and support for academic outcomes assessment, and in particular for the activities of the Outcomes Assessment Executive Committee. As requested, Center staff may also assist academic and administrative departments in identifying and designing assessment procedures and instruments, and in analyzing the data collected.
Special Projects: IR staff also provide coordination and support for special projects with institution-wide impact, including such activities as self-study for reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, preparation for reauthorization by the Ohio Board of Regents, and ad hoc university committees and task forces.
Data Management: The Center maintains various databases and census files for longitudinal studies and statistical analyses. Center staff work with data custodians for key information systems - particularly those for faculty and student data - to help improve and ensure the integrity of data used in planning, decision-making, and reporting.
The Center for Institutional Research at Case provides information and research to support decision-making, policy analysis, institutional assessment, and strategic planning. Based in the Office of University Planning and Budget but drawing on the expertise of staff in a number of units, the Center's resources are available to school-based faculty and staff as well as to central administration and campus committees. Policy and priorities for the Center will be established by the Vice President for Planning and Budget and the Provost.