The NSLLP was developed to study the impact of living-learning programs on various student outcomes. It was developed through the collaboration of Karen Kurotsuchi-Inkelas (University of Maryland) and a team of researchers that included:

• Aaron M. Brower (University of Wisconsin)
• William J. Zeller (University of California, Irvine)
• Mary Hummel (University of Michigan)
• Merrily Dunn (University of Georgia)

Funded by a four-year grant from the Association of College and University Housing Officers International (ACUHO-I), this team developed the NSLLP from 2002-2003. They prepared for the first data collection by conducting an extensive literature review, developing and refining the survey instrument, and implementing a “pilot” study at four campuses.

In 2004, the first NSLLP surveyed over 72,000 respondents from over 34 schools across the country. NSLLP 2007 expanded to include over 52 institutions of higher education and collected data from almost 120,000 students. NASPA and ACPA provided additional funding and support for NSLLP 2004, and the National Science Foundation supported the 2007 study.

Throughout these efforts, the NSLLP team has collaborated with the Center for Student Studies (CSS) to translate their research agenda into a high quality instrument with a methodologically sound quality data-collection protocol. As a division of Survey Sciences Group, LLC, CSS has particular expertise in administering web-based surveys.

Maintaining its high standards for quality as such a service has allowed research to continue to this day. NSLLP is now offered as an annual study with both cross-sectional and longitudinal options. As we continue to refine and build upon our offerings, we anticipate maintaining this rapid growth while continuing to provide the same exceptional service that has come to characterize this study.