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Saturday, February 23, 2013

Driven By Data by Paul Bambrick-Santoyo

Another required reading for winter term. It discusses the four key principles of data-driven instruction.

Data-driven instruction is simply the philosophy that schools should continue to focus their attention on one simple premise: are students learning?

The Framework

Assessment:
Data is the foundation of the framework. Common interim assessments four to six times a year is categorically important. Transparent starting point: teachers see the assessments at the beginning of each cycle; they use the assessments to define the road map for teaching. Aligned to state tests and college readiness. Aligned to instructional  sequence. Reassess previously taught standards. Chapter 1 (page 28-29 is important)

Analysis:
Once assessments are complete, analysis begins. This is considered an important step because proper analyzed data will identify the strategy needed to more forward. It is also paramount that this step be collaborative.

Action:
This is the most daunting task of the framework; putting the plan into practice. "Data-driven instruction is worthless unless that information is actually employed in the classroom." This chapter provides details on how to properly implement the action plan.

Culture:
Culture creates the proper conditions for success. In order for the framework to be viable, there needs to be a data-driven culture embedded into the institution.

To date, this is now the most influential educational book that I have read this academic year. Data drives everything in education. This book should be required reading for any educator.

Page 262 provides a detailed entry plan for Data-Driven Instruction: New Principal in Existing School