It is a common misnomer that only quantitative data obtained through randomization is truly credible and usable. While certainly data obtained through randomly selected samples is statistically more powerful because of its enhanced ability to reflect the larger campus population, in terms of practical value, non-randomly obtained data (quantitative or qualitative) can be equally as powerful. Though not as generalizable, this type of quantitative or qualitative data can still yield important and applicable findings on campus climate, serving as an impetus for action planning as well as indicators for change through which progress can be measured over time.
