3-087 - The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: The Benefits and the Challenges of using Administrative Data for Research and Evaluation

Session Type: Conversation Roundtable

Integrative Statement

In the past few years, there has been increased interest in and emphasis on the use of administrative data for evaluation and research. Even the White House is encouraging federal agencies and private researchers to access and use administrative data (OMB Memo, February 14, 2014; http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/memoranda/2014/m-14-06.pdf). Administrative data, such as child welfare, Medicaid, or school records, offer a wealth of information, saving researchers time and money needed to administer surveys or other data collection instruments. In addition, administrative datasets are often more reliable sources of certain kinds of information (i.e., substantiated cases of child abuse) than are self-report surveys. However, the acquisition and analysis of administrative data, especially in studies that involve multiple sites, comes with its own set of challenges and limitations.

Panelists for this Roundtable include researchers with expertise running large, multi-site studies that are using administrative data to assess outcomes, including the Mother and Infant Home Visiting Program Evaluation (MIHOPE) and a recent study examining the effects of Early Head Start on reducing rates of child maltreatment (EHS/CW). These researchers are spearheading current efforts to make existing administrative data sources easier for researchers, evaluators, program administrators, and policymakers to access, interpret, and analyze securely and efficiently. Drawing on these experiences, the panelists will engage the audience in a discussion of the pros and cons and how-tos of using administrative data for research and evaluation.

Sub Unit

• Methods, History, Theory

Moderator

• Nancy Geyelin Margie, Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation, ACF/HHS

Panelists

• Charles Michalopoulos, MDRC

• Catherine C. Ayoub, Harvard University

• Beth L. Green, Portland State University

• Robert Goerge, Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago