What is Data Driven Decision Making?
Data Driven Decisions are based on reviewing and understanding a wide collection of data. This data may be in the form of test scores, enrollment figures, demographics etc. Understanding this data helps educators find strengths and weaknesses in their school systems. In turn, they can narrow down what methods and practices work best for a particular group of students and in what areas instruction can be improved. An example of using data to guide instruction would be using the scores from a math pre-test at the beginning of the year. The teacher can then focus instruction on review of material that students tested poorly on. Research also indicates that schools that relay on data to inform their practices perform the highest. That is why it is imperative to use data to make appropriate instructional decisions.
I feel that most teachers and school districts use data-driven decision in the classrooms that we are in today. They may not refer to it in such a formal way but that is what teachers are doing all the time when they evaluate their assessments before moving on to the next. Analyzing data is an obvious way to see what students know and in what areas they need work.
ReplyDeleteUsing data-driven decision making can be a useful method. When teachers make data-driven decisions they are forced to analyze their teaching methods because if they notice that the majority of their students performed poorly in the same area they will need to use different strategies to teach that in area.
ReplyDeleteHi Christie
ReplyDeleteThis seems to be the number one question that we all chose this time. I left a comment on my post and Shannon's and Tori's and now you. Danielle also chose this question. Oh - well great minds think a like!-- sorry, I am answered out! - I will catch your next post.
Cindy
I like this idea because it allows teachers to focus on skills that students are struggling with. Without this data, teachers may cover information they don't really need to and take time and effort away from areas that students are truly in need of extra instruction.
ReplyDeleteData is important in making decisions regarding teaching practices. I liked your example of using data from a pretest to tailor instruction towards student needs. One of my cooperating teachers from last semester was crazy about data. He collected and compiled all kinds of data into a binder throughout the year. This seemed to really help him stay on top of the educational needs of his class.
ReplyDeleteData driven decision making has become the norm however sadly it is not available to every teacher. It provides so many excellent benefits and lets not only teachers but also administrators know where and when improvements should be made and what exactly needs to be done.
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