Feature Article
Cost of Not Knowing
In this Lumina-funded project, interviews were conducted and a survey administered with state SHEEO and system offices and private college associations about cost studies and the availability of costing data. Only half of states conduct cost studies. Other states have the capacity, but don’t use it. The results in this study suggest that complex models can be built by many states with existing unit record data, using NCHEMS/ NACUBO methodology. Data from complex cost of instruction studies can tell policymakers what postsecondary education should cost, based on mission and disciplinary mix. Some leaders don’t want to know, however, because it would challenge the status quo in resource allocation. read article »