| Summary: Teacher candidates focus on student learning and study the effects of their work. They assess and analyze student learning, make appropriate adjustments to instruction, monitor student learning, and have a positive effect on learning for all students. Candidates in advanced programs for teachers have a thorough understanding of assessment. They analyze student, classroom, and school performance data and make data-driven decisions about strategies for teaching and learning so that all students learn. They collaborate with other professionals to identify and design strategies and interventions that support student learning. Advanced candidates and other school professionals learn the importance of decision-making based on students achievement data, and demonstrate this knowledge in course assignments, field experiences, and clinical practice. |
Student-centered instruction in which data from student assessment informs practice is central to all courses in all programs. Each lesson plan must have an appropriate assessment and reflection based on what is learned from that assessment. Candidates are required to demonstrate during clinical practice these skills. The Classroom Performance Assessment (CPA) requires that the candidate be assessed seven different criteria related to administering frequent, appropriate, valid, and reliable assessments. Additional criteria assess the use of ICT in obtaining and analyzing data related to student learning and reflecting and applying data for improved practice.
Candidates in the M.Ed. EL program are required in several of their courses to demonstrate proficiency in data-driven decision making focused on student learning results. Table 1.3 provides a list of example courses and assignments that require candidates to demonstrate proficiency in analyzing, reflecting on, and applying student assessment data to improve practice.
Table 1.3
Courses and Assignments in Using Student Achievement Data to Improve Practice
| Course | Assignment |
| EDEL 602 Management of School Information Systems | Classroom Action Plan. Working in small groups, candidates will analyze student achievement data and develop a report that includes the analysis along with specific strategies for improving instructional practices based on the data. |
| EDUC 606 Educational Research Methodologies | Analysis of quantitative achievement data and proposal based on data |
| EDUC 609 Action Research | Design, conduct, and apply results of an action research project in a school |