Data Decisions
Carol Brewer and Barbara McSwain
Dec 07, 2009
When test results come in, what do we do with all this data? It is an overwhelming question because there are so many different reports from the state, district, and even those that you may have disaggregated. Many time schools have the best intentions of compiling this information, but it never seems to get completed. And, what is the best way to compile this information so it is actually used as a tool for learning and achievement?
Data Decisions:
- How is the data going to be compiled?
- Who is responsible for collecting and updating the data?
- When will the data be updated? Where will the data be displayed for all staff to use?
- What reports will be used for accountability?
- Who, when and how often will we meet to discuss data and student progress as related to instruction?
- How is the data going to be compiled?
Many schools have been successful using a spreadsheet for collecting data. This allows you to sort the data to better meet your needs. For example, the sort can be Special Education Students that met AYP in reading, but not in math. To do this, you need to be proficient with manipulating the spreadsheet.
Who is responsible for collecting and updating the data?
Some schools have a coach or a curriculum person that is assigned this task, while other schools want all teachers involved with the results, so they are aware of the data.
When will the data be updated?
It is suggested to keep the data updated at all times - especially after state test results and benchmark assessments. This is usually where the breakdown with the data occurs. Teachers start out the year with the completed spreadsheet and seem to "get too busy" to update.
Where will the data be displayed for all staff to use?
Data Rooms are the best answer for this question. These Data Rooms display the needed information on a bulletin board or chart paper for "staff eyes only". This should not be a place where the public has access.
What reports will be used for accountability? In other words, how will we know that the data is being used?
Some schools have reports that teachers complete at the end of each quarter that indicates growth and needs. This allows all staff members to assist with meeting the needs of all students.
How will your school/ district systematically target students who appear in more than one AYP subgroups to ensure gains in student achievement?
LEARNING-FOCUSED has strategically implemented data strategies in both the Leadership Academies and the Strategies for Assessments book, plus we provide extensive leadership data coaching and conferencing with seasoned principals and superintendents whom have successfully raised achievement in schools and distric ts using data to guide instructional decisions. Call us at 866-955-3276 for more information or to schedule a day!
Data decisions need to be made to be consistent and pervasive. From a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rank the availability and use of data in your school?
