Publications

Investigating potential differences between responses on a major undergraduate survey (NSSE) and an alumni survey (SNAAP), results suggest that even though response rates on alumni surveys may be lower, they are just as representative as studies with much higher response rates.

This methodological research suggests that the type of devices that respondents use does seem to affect how they respond to the survey, findings differences in the characteristics of those using the devices as well as how the devices affect survey completion, time spent responding, willingness to answer complex and open-ended questions, and lengths of open-ended responses.

This study used factor analysis to identify two types of institutional and workplace skill sets (transferable skills and business-based skills), and then used regression analysis to explore which occupational, institutional, and demographic characteristics are predictors of each type of skill set.

Using SNAAP data, the authors suggest that arts graduates use multiple lenses to view the worth of their education.

This study matched SNAAP and NSSE institutions and majors using an experimental NSSE item set consisting of SNAAP questions, and found that alumni rate their overall experience higher, while students more positively judge aspects and skill development.

Online data collection allows for the implementation of several complex processes, such as skip logic and conditional response options. However, these components can complicate data management and the reporting of results. Presenters use experiences from five years of administering SNAAP to discuss effective practices.

Using SNAAP data, this research explores whether those with certain demographic and personal characteristics are more or less likely to respond to open-ended questions placed at the beginning, middle, and end of an online alumni survey. Findings suggest that there are some group differences in likelihood of response, which could be explained by time burden, negativity bias,and self-identification as ​“other.”

Using SNAAP data, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis indicate there are two distinct components of job satisfaction among arts alumni: intrinsic satisfaction and extrinsic satisfaction. Results indicate that intrinsic satisfaction may play a larger role in how alumni perceive their careers outcomes and success.

Comparing responses from six cohorts of NSSE and SNAAP, results suggest that the demographic characteristics and institutional satisfaction of alumni respondents closely mirror those of the graduating seniors.

Using SNAAP data, this study explores whether satisfaction with aspects of institutional experience contributes to perceived development of creative thinking for artistically gifted individuals. The two strongest, most consistent predictors across all models are satisfaction with freedom and encouragement to take risks and instructors in classrooms, labs, and studios.

Using data from the 2011 SNAAP survey, findings indicate that arts alumni are happy with their training and have few regrets. They went to arts school to learn art and, by and large, they are satisfied with the quality of instruction they received concerning their artistic craft. More than half have worked as professional artists at some time in their careers.

Using 2010 SNAAP data, This presentation focused on potential ways that administrators and faculty at educational institutions can use results from alumni surveys to assess and improve curriculum.

Using 2010 SNAAP data, the presenters demonstrate that barriers exist post-graduation for those seeking careers in the creative industries.

Internet surveys are steadily replacing both postal and telephone surveys. Internet surveys are easier to conduct, require fewer resources, and are less costly. However, replacing traditional survey modes can create data quality and analysis challenges if the differences across modes are not adequately analyzed and documented. In 2009, SNAAP administered a questionnaire in three modes (paper, telephone, and Internet) and found that most responses did not change between modes.