Using the student and school files from NELS:88, this manual will familiarize data users and researchers with the procedures followed for data collection and processing of the NELS:88 base year survey, and provide necessary documentation for use of the Student data file. Contents will include a descriptive reporting of the study and historical perspective on the longitudinal studies program, information about related studies and data files, a description of data collection instruments, a description of the sample design and implementation, an account of data collection, preparation and processing. In addition, a detailed guide to the data file and codebook will be provided, including information on the construction of the composite variables, guidelines for use of statistical analysis packages, and record layout, as well as presenting the codebook itself and the survey instruments.
