Data Collection Methods
The MSL is administered online by the Center for Student Studies (CSS) a division of the Survey Sciences Group, LLC. CSS is an independent research organization with specific expertise in multi–campus studies. All data are collected using empirically proven standards for web–based survey research.
MSL’s online format allows students to share their experiences at any time or place that is convenient to them. They can respond to the MSL when they feel comfortable, secure, and unhurried. Respondents further enjoy the option of leaving the survey and resuming it from their last completed answer.
Students are invited to participate via personalized e–mails. Each correspondence outlines the study, addresses issues of confidentiality and consent, and supplies a link to the survey instrument. Students may receive up to four total contacts.
As the survey is administered, CSS provides comprehensive respondent support via e–mail or telephone to minimize the inconvenience to your students. This service also allows students to opt out of the survey by replying to any MSL correspondence and requesting to be removed from the dataset.
The data–collection period extends from January through the end of April, and each institution will select a three–week window that best fits their unique academic calendar. CSS will monitor the survey completion rates and work with you to encourage participation if the response is insufficient.
To increase response rate, you may host a sweepstakes–style drawing for students who complete the survey. Your institution will decide on the number, type, and value of prizes; and CSS will conduct the random drawing.
Latest News
Enrollment Still Open Through October!
October 2011 Enrollment for MSL 2012 is still open! Schools may enroll through the month of October. To learn more about the benefits of participating, please go HERE. To enroll now, please fill out our Enrollment Survey.
STEM School Coalition Started for MSL 2012
Catholic Schools Coalition Expands Significantly for 2012 MSL
MSL Announces New Three Year Research Cycle
Recent Publication
March/April 2011 Article based on MSL data now available examining leadership across US and Mexican cultures published in the Journal of College Student Development.
Recent Publication
March/April 2011 Article based on MSL data now available! Published in the Journal of College Student Development.
Recent Publication
Spring 2011 The 2nd edition of The Handbook For Student Leadership Development, is published.
Measuring Quality Inventory
MSL Co-PI Honored by NASPA
MSL Receives NASPA Award
Student Leadership Research Award
ILA Board Appointment
Example Custom Report
8.10.2009 An example of the complete MSL custom report is now available for download.
Recent Publication
MSL 2012 Timeline
May 31 and June 30, 2011
Early enrollment and payment deadlines
October, 2011
Final enrollment deadline
July - December, 2011
Schools prepare for data collection
January - April, 2012
Data collection
Summer, 2012
School reports distributed
View the full MSL Timeline »






