Institutional Research (IR) Data Fellows Program
About the Data Fellows Program
The IR Data Fellows Program is a year-long program designed to expand data usage by implementing measures that facilitate the effective integration of data into planning and decision making across campus. It will provide staff, faculty, and administrators an opportunity to both familiarize themselves with campus data resources and collaborate on formulating a sustainable data literacy strategy that will empower data users and expand use of data. Our ultimate vision is to build a program that enhances data literacy, empowers data users, and cultivates a culture of informed decision-making.
Who Should Apply?
Faculty and staff with all levels of data experience are welcome to apply. This opportunity would be most relevant for those who have an interest in examining factors related to student success at UMaine and UMaine Machias.
Key Program Components
As a Data Fellow, you’ll be part of a select group of 8 to 10 participants who will collaboratively pilot and develop a sustainable data literacy plan. Throughout the 2024 academic year (spring 2024 and fall 2024 semesters), you will engage in monthly meetings and events, including:
- Curriculum Review and Adaptation: Review and potentially adapt the Data Literacy Institute (DLI) materials to tailor them to the needs of our institution.
- Training Sessions: Acquire practical data skills and strategies through hands-on training on navigating and interpreting existing IR reports and dashboards.
- Shared Project Development: Work together on a specific challenge related to student success at our institution to apply the acquired data literacy skills.
- Data-Informed Discussions: Connect with a diverse cohort of colleagues while discussing and interpreting the findings from the data analysis.
As a Data Fellow, you will also have the opportunity to apply and, if selected, receive funds you can use for additional training, resources, or tools related to data literacy and professional development.
The application deadline has passed, but if you are interested in the program please reach out to Debra Allen (debra.allen@maine.edu), Lisa Applegate (lisa.applegate@maine.edu ) or Simona Mitevska (simona.mitevska@maine.edu).
The 2024 cohort will meet two hours a month, from January to December during the spring and fall semesters. We will not meet over the summer. We anticipate a maximum of one hour of preparation work (i.e., outside of the meetings) each month. Refreshments will be provided.
Questions?
If you have any remaining questions about the program, please contact the program facilitators:
Debra Allen (debra.allen@maine.edu), Lisa Applegate (lisa.applegate@maine.edu), Simona Mitevska (simona.mitevska@maine.edu)
If you know someone else who would be interested, please forward this along! Open to all UMaine and UMaine Machias faculty and staff.