WebLog Query: D3 Data Driven Decision Making

1.  What data is currently being collected at your school?
At this time, all teachers have been asked to collect data in their various subject areas using formative assessments.  All 9th and 10th grade students are tested in Reading and math using MAP Testing, which collects proficiency data by state indicator.  All students on IEPs are testing using SRI for their Lexile level.




2.  Make a list of the sources of where the data is being stored such as databases, spreadsheets, text files and paper?

• Spreadsheets:  Most teachers use spreadsheets for their formative assessment data
• Databases:  MAP Testing; SRI; PowerSchool
• Text files:  Sent to the principal

3.  Identify the person or persons or the department that manages particular data.

Each teacher and/or linking team is responsible for managing their own data.  Each team must submit their data to the principal via email. 

 4.  Are the data sources compatible? Do existing obstacles complicate or prevent correlation analysis of available data?

I would say that current data sources are not compatible.  We have a lot of different data in a lot of different places.  Because data is collected from various places, I think that might prevent the compatibility for storage.

 5.  How frequently is important data collected? Is it useless because of infrequency or overly burdensome because it is collected too frequently?

We are asked to collect classroom data at least monthly.  SRI and MAP Testing are done in September, January, and May.  I feel that our data collection is done at a good pace.  The part that becomes burdensome is entering it into various places.

 6.  What data do YOU actually have access to? Is it the data you need to effectively advance the learning of your students or otherwise do your work? What additional data would help you make more informed decisions?

I have access to most data that I need for day to day needs.  Although, I can only get data on students I have in my classes.  Because I teach special education, I have access to a lot more data than most.

 7.  What MIS does your school use? How well is this system being used? Is the system robust enough for the needs of your school?
 
My school currently uses PowerSchool for our MIS.  Since it is only the first year we are using it, I am sure there a lot of things that aren't being used that will be used in the future once people become more familiar with it.  At this point I can't say if it is robust enough because I don't know of all the things it is capable of at this time.