How to Involve Students in Data Tracking

"Because you know I'm all about that data, 'bout that data..."

If you are a teacher or administrator odds are that you spend a considerable amount of time during the school year collecting, analyzing, and utilizing student data. Although it can be a time consuming process, data is an effective practice that is beneficial to use to drive classroom instruction.

Data has not only become a standard component of our education system, utilizing data is also recognized as a best practice.

So then, "If student data is so important why is everyone except students involved in the process?"

While students receive feedback through report cards, standardized tests, or other graded tests and assignments, theses measures are often presented to them in isolation. The students are aware of the importance of these scores, however they are usually unsure how they all connect or how they relate to their learning or their future.

So then how do we involve students in the collection and data analysis process? How do we invest students in their learning by helping them see the connections between their data and their future goals?

The solution to this oversight is The Student Data Binder.

Using The Student Data Binder students set their own measurable goals for the year as a whole along with weekly goals. Students are also able to track math fact fluency, Accelerated Reader goals and points, Fry Words, and reading level. Blank graph sheets are also included to track additional data.

The great thing about data binders is that they allow students to see the link between their scores and what they are learning in the classroom. Students are also able to use their data to set weekly goals and goals for the future.

Data binders are not only a great motivational tool for students, they are also incredibly useful around parent-teacher conference time. Using their data binders students are able to paint an accurate picture for their parents as to where they are academically. Students are also able to communicate the goals that they have set throughout the year as well as their progress toward those goals.

As teachers there are so many classroom responsibilities that are solely on you. However, collecting and analyzing data should not be one of them. Save yourself some time at the beginning of the year by teaching your students how to collect and analyze their own data. You'll be glad you did.

What investment strategies do you use to help students track their learning and set goals throughout the year?

-Carly

I hope you have found this blog post helpful. To stay connected with Carly and Adam's teaching tips and classroom freebies be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Teachers Pay Teachers, and subscribe to our blog!