Using data to make decisions is the cornerstone of all continuous improvement efforts. A shared internal commitment to improving outcomes for all students is the compelling reason to commit to using data effectively. This requires all educators – administrators and teachers alike – to engage collaboratively in a strategic inquiry process to make decisions; solve problems; and develop, monitor, and evaluate short- and long-term actions by understanding and using data form a variety of sources.
Inquiry through an evidence-based data analysis process moves educators away from solutions rooted in past practice, opinion, assumptions, or beliefs to a system that operates on proof. Inquiry is then the foundation of data use.
Resources found here support the building and sustaining of a culture of data use in your school.
(From: PDE PIL Foundations: Data to Action & PDE PIL School-Level Data to Action eBooks)
Data teams are groups of educators who collaboratively use data to verify effective practices and identify opportunities for school improvement. Effective schools operating on evidence build a network of data teams appropriate to their size, mission, and context. Effective data teams include the right people, engage in routines to ensure completion of tasks, work collaboratively to establish goals, set priorities, apply an interactive process aligned to inquiry, and develop action plans.
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Assessment calendars or maps identify the required assessments to be given to students within specified time periods. The existence of such a map communicates to staff, students, and the community how and when students are assessed and provides a common focus for data analysis and action planning. This often also includes a schedule of data team meetings as a supplement to ensure the assessment data are being reviewed, analyzed, and used to support decision-making at all levels. The following resources support educators in the development, audit, and revision of their assessment calendars or maps.
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Protocols pave the way for the effective functioning of a data team, providing formalized routines for data discussions, meeting documentation, and action plans following data team meetings at all levels. Protocols can take many forms and may be displayed and used in different ways; the design of a protocol can help inform how a data discussion is facilitated, recorded, and converted into an effective action plan. Different protocols can be used throughout the year for various types of data team meetings and can be adapted based on the purpose and timing of the meeting and the data under consideration.
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Support and Assistance
For answers to questions regarding statewide support or professional learning, please contact the PVAAS Statewide Team via phone: 717-606-1911 or email: pdepvaas@iu13.org.