In a recent focus group conversation with AHEAD members, newcomers to the field of disability resources raised some important questions. How do I know what data to collect? Do I track student numbers? Test accommodation use? Calls to the office? Graduation and retention data? The numerous options can seem overwhelming!
One important step in developing a plan is to identify the framework that is guiding your data collection. Depending on your institution, division, and office needs this plan may look different for different disability resource offices. Following are some frequently used frameworks that you can consider as you develop the plan for your office.
Aligning with your institutional values and mission. It’s always a good idea to communicate how your office is contributing to and furthering the work of your institution. Data collection is a prime opportunity to illustrate and document your work.
Read the advice of Dr. Teresa Haven, an experienced disability resource professional, in the case study: Aligning Mission, Vision, and Goals with Accessibility
CAS Frequently Asked Questions. Many disability resource offices are housed within the Student Life or Student Affairs division of the institution. The strategic planning and work of your division may suggest a framework for your plan. Many Student Affairs divisions use CAS (the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education). You can read more about CAS.
Aligning with your field and professional association. AHEAD has research based program standards that can be useful in structuring your data collection plan. You can find the AHEAD Program Standards here
Aligning with your philosophy of service. As the field recognizes the importance of a social model of disability—that is, an approach to access that focuses on changes in the environment—there will be changes in our daily work in disability resource offices. What impact will this have on data collection? Watch for coming resources. Read more about the social model of disability and how this impacts our work at AHEAD's Refocus page.