Implementation of a Federal Student Level Data Network (SLDN)

Session Abstract: Will the federal government start collecting student-level records to replace some IPEDS data? Although no law has been passed to date, many policy observers believe the question is when, not if, a federal Student Level Data Network (SLDN) will become a reality. As recent challenges related to FAFSA and FVT/GE have shown, implementation of policies can be challenging. The purpose of this session is to give space and voice to individuals who would like to contribute to a conversation on how to successfully implement a SLDN. Specifically designed as a discussion group, we will present a short background on the SLDN and initial findings from focus groups with approximately 50 IR professionals. We will then pose questions to attendees that mirror those in the previously conducted focus groups in order to allow other voices to shape the conversation of how best to implement such a large change in federal reporting.

Keywords: federal reporting, IPEDS, student-level data