Silvia C.

Parker
June 23, 2018
Version 1

2.8 Data Analysis: Candidates model and facilitate the effective use of digital tools and
resources to systematically collect and analyze student achievement data, interpret results,
communicate findings, and implement appropriate interventions to improve instructional
practice and maximize student learning. (ISTE 2h)
Artifact: Data Overview
The artifact I chose to demonstrate mastery of Standard 2.8 Data Analysis is the Data Overview
written for ITEC 7305 Data Analysis and School Improvement. The analysis describes the
school’s culture, demographics for both teachers and students as well as assessment data for the
CRCT and Georgia Milestones. In order to complete this assignment, I had to do extensive
research on student data, and I also had to consult the attendance clerk at my school for all the
demographic data.
The Data Overview demonstrates mastery of Standard 2.8. The construction of this artifact
allowed me the opportunity to collect and analyze student achievement data. I collected data
from the CRCT and Milestones test 5th grade. I was also able to interpret and communicate
findings from the data. This was extremely powerful since I was able to observe trends and
patterns in the data that gave me ideas on how to improve instruction. One of the most
rewarding aspects of this artifact was the comparison and contrast of the CRCT and Milestones
tests. This was particularly interesting to me since I was able to observe how a more rigorous test
can fluctuate student performance. That is, the more rigorous the assessment, the more rigorous
the instruction needs to be in order to give the students an opportunity to perform well. Part of
my analysis consisted of listing the strengths and weaknesses of the Milestones assessment. I had
the opportunity to bring up points of discussion based on the strengths and weaknesses as well as
to propose the next steps to follow in order to improve and maximize student learning. I thought
this was extremely important since the main objective of data overviews is to provide teachers
with guidance on how to help improve student performance.
I learned a lot from this experience since it gave me the opportunity to analyze data and draw
conclusions. I was also very interested in pointing out the effect demographics have on student
performance. I believe it is very important to be aware of the fact that assessments are not always
fair to the students. That is, the assessments are written with a certain type of student in mind,
and that might make the assessment unattainable to certain populations. This is why I believe it
is important for teachers to become advocates of minority and low socio-economic status
students. These students often fall behind in regards to achievement, and the reasons for doing so
might very well be beyond their control. Therefore, teachers of diverse students must make sure
they are using best practices in order to help those students succeed.
The impact of this artifact can be assessed through data analysis meetings. That is, the school can
use this data overview to make changes in the way teachers are delivering instruction. The school
can also use this data overview to better understand the needs of its student population in order to
serve them better.