In this report, we examined five kinds of equity-focused metrics in state OBF policies to determine the extent to which states prioritize the enrollment and success of students of color and students from low-income backgrounds:
- Enrollment metrics for students of color
- Success metrics for students of color
- Enrollment metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Success metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Metrics related to campus racial climate
While the inclusion of these metrics in policies is essential, how they are deployed is equally as important. Therefore, we also considered whether the metrics were mandatory, optional, or weighted. Weighted metrics are the most ideal. These are mandatory and are given additional value, so strong institutional performance on a weighted metric would garner greater advantage or funding.
Two- and Four-Year Institutions
Indiana adopted outcomes-based funding in 2003. It is allocated as base funding annually.
Indiana’s performance funding formula was started in 2003 and has evolved over time to provide incentives to public higher education institutions that improve in student-outcome driven metrics.
The metrics include:
- Student persistence incentive (retention)
- Change in number of degrees/certificates awarded
- At-risk student degree completion
- STEM degree completion
- Change in on-time graduation rate
The Indiana OBF policy uses different metrics for community colleges and universities, and the measurements differ in terms of their scope and mission. For example, the community college system measures overall degree completion for students earning certificates and associate degrees, while the university system measures overall degree completion for students earning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Vincennes University, which is measured for overall degree completion for students earning certificates, associate and bachelor’s degrees, is the exception. The policy does not include a campus climate metric.
The policy is overseen by the Indiana Higher Education Commission. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/che/3148.htm.
Two-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | None |
| Enrollment of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | Mandatory |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
Four-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | Weight |
| Enrollment of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students From Low-Income Backgrounds | Mandatory |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
