Universities' Open Data Policies: A Key to Revolutionizing College Experience
Universities hold a wealth of untapped data that could revolutionize the college experience. States adopting open data policies early may gain a competitive edge in improving data reporting and potentially benefit from Obama's proposal to reallocate federal student aid.
Currently, there's no comprehensive list of US universities with fully implemented open data policies. However, Texas has led the way by requiring universities to publish online information such as instructor CVs, syllabi, and departmental budgets. Ten states have adopted open data policies, and 24 have established open data portals.
Open data can bring numerous benefits. It can aid better fiscal oversight, saving taxpayers money and encouraging public participation in state budgeting. It can also help prospective students understand the value of different degree programs, as seen in the White House's College Scorecard. Georgia, for instance, publishes the salaries of all government employees, including university faculty and staff.
With universities holding vast amounts of data, adopting open data policies can lead to improved transparency, better student decision-making, and enhanced fiscal accountability. States like Texas and Georgia have already taken steps in this direction, and more could follow suit to potentially gain advantages in federal student aid reallocation.
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