The APLU dataset, visualized via Tableau, offers detailed comparisons of student outcomes for 17 large introductory courses across 9 Big10 institutions from spring 2020-2023. Data includes full grade distributions by demographics at the term and course level. An expansion is underway to include more institutions and extend the period through spring 2026.
What can you do with the tool?
- Monitor UMD's large introductory course grade trends against 8 Big10 peers.
- Identify courses needing improvement based on peer comparison.
- Showcase effective UMD practices in courses with superior outcomes.
Current/Potential Outcomes
- Enhanced attention paid to courses that are underperforming compared to our peers. This became very clear in conversations with the math department as course improvements were discussed.
- General benchmarking of our large introductory courses.
- Connecting with our peers to learn more regarding courses with high rates of student success. The observation of the outcomes in some of our math courses led to conversations with some of our peer institutions.
Users
- Campus leaders, Chairs and Directors of Undergraduate Programs and potential for some faculty interest.
Accessing the Tool
- To access the tool you need to contact Marco Molinaro, marco@umd.edu, and mention your interest in using the tool and for what purpose. You will be contacted after review of your request.