Article - Using Digital Learning Data to Drive Instruction

"Using Digital Learning Data to Drive Instruction"
Mary Styers, Ph.D.
Magnolia Consulting, LLC
Link

     The article breaks down the use of digital learning data into a number of ways.  I've known about the positive uses of driving instruction through the use of student learning data, but never thought about the benefits to each side of the equation (for teachers and for students).

"As a result, when students have continuing involvement in their learning and a greater understanding of performance, self-perceptions and achievement outcomes improve."

     We often focus on the academic side of our students a bit much.  I am guilty of this as well.  It was interesting to see the author focus on the student "self-perceptions" as a benefit.  In my tenth year of teaching in Thomasville City Schools, I can attest to how important that variable is.  Students need to feel self-worth and ownership over their learning.  Does anyone know a great way to organize digital data?

"When involving students in the decision making process, students should receive feedback and be equipped to learn from that feedback (e.g., rubrics). Teachers can then use student interpretations of their data to guide instructional modifications. By allowing students to monitor their progress, students are able to increase engagement in the subject area and develop a sense of control over their learning."

     Decision-making is definitely a skill our youth need to continually grow in.  It is hard to teach some days.  We want to pass on the content due to deadlines of our Essential Standards or Common Core.  However, it is critical that our students develop that same self-reflection that the new Teacher Evaluation Standards as teachers to do.  Build a lesson, teach the lesson and reflect on the lesson.  We should use that same equation for students.  Be a part of the lesson, experience the lesson, and use the lesson to make a decision about you and your environment.  How would this look in a lesson?

Throw any other thoughts on the article below to discuss.  Thanks!