Recommended Resources and Preparations for the Discussion
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Recommended preparations for this discussion
Please use the following guiding questions to help you share how you use data in your program (or classroom), or how you would like to:
- Do you use data in your program? What type? How? What have been the results?
- What information (data) would you like to track and why?
- What data would you like to learn how to use?
Resources of interest
Using Data Effectively by Donna Cornellier: see Power Point Presentation at: http://www.nifl.gov/lincs/discussions/assessment/07program_impr.html (scroll down to the bottom of that page for the resource).
This PowerPoint outlines a basic framework for identifying, using, and monitoring data; excellent guiding questions are provided as well as a case study for practicing the application of the framework.
Power Point Presentations from University of the State of New York, State Education Department and the Literacy Assistance Center (LAC):
Developing & Disseminating Report Cards [1]
Report Card Rubric [2]
Rolling Out the Report Card [3]
These presentations outline the development of a Report Card for measuring the performance of literacy programming within the state of NY. A detailed look at scoring the elements of program performance is provided; presenters also review their process for informing/ working with stakeholders on the use of report cards, and report on the first year results of the initiative.
NRS Publications on data [4]
This site has a wealth of resources including the NRS Implementation Guidelines; NRS Tips offering information on building data systems, and setting goals and standards; and Training Guides that provide practical information and tools that can be used to build and use data systems effectively.
Learning to be an NRS Data Detective [5]
This training explores how an effective data detective:
- Understands the process and psychology of data collection;
- Examines data including assessment, goal setting, and follow-up data;
- Asks further questions of the data; and
- Makes changes in processes and policies to improve data quality and program services.
NRS State and Local Report Cards [6]
Report cards can be a powerful and effective tool for accountability and program improvement if properly used and implemented. There are many types of report cards, but for the purposes of NRS, our focus is on report cards that assess performance. Report cards that allow meaningful evaluation have the following characteristics:
- Include outcome and other data,
- Provide a basis for evaluation of that data, and
- Present contextual data or interpretive information that aid interpretation and promote understanding.
Report cards can be used in several different ways to
- Evaluate program quality,
- Promote program improvement, and
- Inform and advocate for the program.
