University of Pennsylvania, School of Social Policy & Practice

Founded in 1740 the University of Pennsylvania comprises four undergraduate schools and 12 graduate and professional schools. The University focuses on increasing access to education, integrating knowledge and engaging locally and globally. The School of Social Policy and Practice contributes to the advancement of more effective, efficient and humane human services through education, research and civic engagement. Building upon the activities and accomplishments under two previously funded phases of the Actionable Intelligence for Social Policy (AISP) Initiative, this grant seeks to further the development, use, and innovation of integrated data systems (IDS) to generate actionable information for policy and program decision making.

This grant to the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice funds the second phase of the Intelligence for Social Policy initiative: continuing to develop the field of integrated data systems (IDS) and demonstrating how administrative data can contribute to improved decision making for both policy and practice. Building upon the Foundation-funded first phase - which tested the viability and utility of establishing a network of effective state or local IDS - Dennis Culhane and colleagues now will establish standards of practice, showcasing the value of IDS research to provide social benefits, and positioning the initiative for future sustainability.

Using housing data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and educational data obtained from five school jurisdictions, the University of Pennsylvania will use linked individual-level student records and assisted housing records to determine how children in households who participate in different assisted housing programs fare in terms of academic achievement, as compared to a matched group of children who do not live in assisted housing. Such linked data will enable researchers to examine mediating variables that affect educational outcomes, such as residential instability, school mobility, and school and neighborhood quality.

To expand the use of integrated data systems to support evidence-based policymaking (over three years).

To support a plan to develop integrated administrative data systems to improve social programs and policies.