Data can be a jumble
of disjointed, incomprehensible numbers. Only after it is organized, analyzed,
and put into a useful form can it be used for planning, decision-making, and
accountability.
Turning data into
information is not easy work and many of us were never trained to do this.
Additionally, the increase in testing, technology, and accountability has
created so much "stuff," it is impossible to attend to everything and
difficult to identify what is most important. We can help by:
- Reviewing data sources to be sure you are getting the data you need and attending to that which is valuable;
- Helping schools and
teachers use their data to set goals rather than trying to make sense of the
data;
- Building skills around the use of classroom d ata that is more
timely and useful for lesson planning.
