Overview
The focus is on NCLB data because it has provided a uniform set of guidelines for schools and districts to follow regarding what data should be used and what data matters. This focus serves as a starting point for how to make the connections between NCLB data and additional types of data to reinforce the decision-making process.
The Data Primer is organized around four modules. Each module provides a practical question that educators can ask when developing school improvement plans:
- Module 1: Where are we?
- Module 2: Where do we want to go?
- Module 3: How fast are we moving and in what direction?
- Module 4: Are we leaving anyone behind?
Each module contains three sections:
- The "Tutorial" section illustrates how the question might be answered using a hypothetical school examining the NCLB metric of percentage at or above proficiency. Different graphing techniques are introduced to show how data put in graphical form increase readability, illuminate patterns, and elicit questions about meaning.
- The "Practice" section lets users apply their own data to the graph type used in the "Tutorial" section.
- The "Going Further" section acts as a bridge between the sample scenario and actual tools, resources, and services that users can access and implement to address more thoroughly some of the questions and issues raised throughout the instructional portion.
The path of inquiry followed in each "Tutorial" section is applicable to all types of educational data. It works for all types and levels of testing and assessment. It can be used for analyzing attendance information, surveys of attitudes and perceptions, and programs. The questions apply equally well when analyzing data at the district, school, grade, classroom, or student level.
To begin, go to the tutorial for Module 1.
