Recent reports have shed light on the California State University (Cal State) system’s struggle to collect accurate data on cases of unwanted sexual conduct within its campuses.
The nation’s largest public university system, comprising 23 campuses, has faced criticism for its handling of high-profile cases of sexual harassment and abuse. Two comprehensive reports released last month reveal significant data gaps and inconsistencies in tracking these cases, with the system set to invest millions to address the issue.
Insufficient Data Collection Raises Concerns
The California State Auditor’s report highlighted the lack of “meaningful analysis” within Cal State’s system to identify and address concerning trends related to unwanted sexual conduct.
The tweet below verifies the news:
How Many Cal State Employees Are Accused Of Sexual Harassment? Here’s Why It’s Hard To Know https://t.co/Rz546QNvri pic.twitter.com/keOVo7rPEH
— Harassment in Science (@STEMHarassment) August 7, 2023
The report emphasized that the data on such incidents, including sexual harassment, misconduct, stalking, assault, and violence, is unreliable. Additionally, a law firm hired by Cal State Chancellor’s Office identified discrepancies, stating that the current data collection process does not yield consistent and reliable data across the system.
Discrepancies in Reported Numbers
The reports revealed a significant disparity in the number of employees accused of improper sexual conduct within the Cal State system. According to the audit, there were 1,246 cases over five years, while the law firm’s assessment found 452 incidents over four academic years.
The reasons for this discrepancy range from inconsistent data collection methods to the inclusion of new categories of unwanted sexual conduct in the most recent year.
Importance of Accurate Data
Both sets of reports underscore the importance of accurate data collection in promoting campus safety. Accurate counts of sexual harassment, misconduct, violence, stalking, and assault cases enable campuses to address concerns effectively.
Complaints against employees can lead to investigations and necessary actions, including reprimands, additional training, or even dismissal for policy violations.
Challenges in Data Collection
The disparity in reported numbers can be attributed to various factors, including differences in data collection approaches.
The audit’s count considered a broader range of unwanted sexual conduct categories over a longer period, while the law firm’s count focused on specific reports submitted to the Chancellor’s Office. The introduction of new categories and variations in data tracking methods further contributed to the inconsistencies.
Efforts to Improve Data Collection
Cal State recognizes the need for enhanced data collection and intends to invest $25 million in the coming year to implement recommendations from the reports. The adoption of better software and increased staff training is part of this effort.
Both the audit and the law firm’s reports highlight the significance of consistent data collection across campuses to identify patterns, trends, and repeat offenders.
Impact on Campus Safety
Collecting reliable data is crucial for creating a safer environment for students and staff. The reports’ findings emphasize that campuses need a more comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of sexual and gender-based harassment and violence.
Implementing recommendations from the reports could lead to more effective practices and systems, resulting in more reliable data and improved responses to unwanted sexual conduct cases.
A Call for Better Reporting
Advocates stress the importance of encouraging more victims to come forward, as underreporting remains a challenge in addressing sexual harassment and assault. Schools need to create an environment where victims feel comfortable reporting incidents and are assured that appropriate actions will be taken.
Moving Forward
As Cal State aims to address data discrepancies and strengthen its response to unwanted sexual conduct cases, the report’s recommendations offer a roadmap for improvement. By collecting accurate and consistent data, the university system can better identify areas of concern, track trends, and ensure a safer environment for all its students and staff members.
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