(1) In consultation with the institutions of higher education and state education agencies, the board shall identify the data needed to carry out its responsibilities for policy analysis, accountability, program improvements, and public information. The primary goals of the board's data collection and research are to describe how students and other beneficiaries of higher education are being served; to support higher education accountability; and to assist state policymakers and institutions in making policy decisions.

     (2) The board shall convene a research advisory group and shall collaborate with the group to identify the most cost-effective manner for the board to collect data or access existing data. The board shall work with the advisory group to develop research priorities, policies, and common definitions to maximize the reliability and consistency of data across institutions. The advisory group shall include representatives of public and independent higher education institutions and other state agencies, including the state board for community and technical colleges, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, the office of financial management, the employment security department, the workforce training and education coordinating board, and other agencies as appropriate.

     (3) Specific protocols shall be developed by the board and the advisory group to protect the privacy of individual student records while ensuring the availability of student data for legitimate research purposes.

[2004 c 275 § 12.]

NOTES:

     Part headings not law -- 2004 c 275: See note following RCW 28B.76.030.