Marcy Emberger and Linda Eberhardt appear to be major architects of the site. It maintains some superb suggestions and resources which can help any teacher or PLC improve data competency. The site is divided into four information tabs:
How will you analyze it?
How will you discuss it?
How will you use it?
Resources for Analyzing Classroom Data.
Under the first tab are key questions for the examination of classroom data. It is important to remember that if you
do not collect data, the right type of data, you cannot analyze it. Once a team knows what they are accruing and analyzing the ensuing discussion is vital to truly impact student achievement. Sometimes it appears that teachers become mired in phase one of the PLC process where they over analyze ambiguous data points and tweak assessments rather than pushing to phase two which is characterized by instructional change. Excellent advice is
provided when the authors reference schools that do not evaluate the success of intervention measures. It is
possible that elaborate RtI and corrective instruction processes are developed which fail to meet the goals of their intended purpose.
Below is a brief description of MY Phases of PLCs for reference. This is not based on a research-based item or study. It simply reflects MY observations of actual participant behavior while working through the PLC process.
Highly effective PLCs master phase one, constantly function within the realm of phase two, and embrace
phase three as best practice. It is cyclical but some ineffective PLCs never move beyond phase one.
PLC Phases
-The team analyzes data making adjustments to common assessments
and benchmarks. (Phase I)
-The team discusses data analysis to adjust instruction and experiment with new strategies. They frequently share experiences. (Phase II)
-The team has moved through the first two phases and now frequently conduct crucial conversations to hold members internally accountable and provide supports when struggling to ensure results. (Phase III)
Attached is a link for School Improvement in Maryland. If you are interested in advancing your team’s PLC effectiveness, I invite you to have one or more team members peruse the site for improvement
ideas.
http://mdk12.org/data/progress/using.html
Posted by John Schilawski (2.27.14)