Methodological note - Destinations (tables 8 to 14)
Information on destinations of graduates is collected in two surveys: the survey of Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education is co-ordinated by the Higher Education Statistics Agency ( HESA) and administered by each HEI. The First Destination of Graduates Survey is co-ordinated by the Scottish Funding Council and administered by each College. Both surveys are handed out to all graduates from full-time courses 1. The response rates in the two surveys are: 58% for college students and 80% for HEI graduates.
In the past this statistics note has reported the number of responses received and associated percentages. However a need for totals as well as percentages has become apparent; there is also the concern that the percentages based on responses will not always be representative of the total number of graduates.
For example we have found that those first degree graduates who obtain good marks (first or upper second) are more likely to respond than others. High performing graduates had therefore been over-represented in the analysis of responses.
The estimates presented in this note have been adjusted for the difference in response rates, taking account of invalid responses, and grossed up to the total number of graduates from full-time courses. The adjustments were made separately based on domicile, institutions type, level of study and class of first degree. The adjustment factors ranged from 1.2 to 2.6.
Impact of the changes: we are now estimating a slightly higher percentage for going on to further study or training; the tables on location of employment have only changed marginally. The improved estimation method has had a more substantial impact on the detailed tables on industry and occupation and the tables on destination by subject of study.
The Higher Education Statistics Agency are also considering adjustment for non-response to their survey data. This work is still in progress. Once it is complete we will re-consider the estimation method for leavers from higher education courses in Scotland.