Early Child Learning
What is the basic meaning of the term data-supported (or data driven) instruction?
The basic meaning of the term data-supported instruction is that individuals should utilize practices that are supported by data as the foundation for their teaching methods to use with students. There are a number of different teaching methodologies that one can employ that are either corroborated or unsubstantiated by quantifiable data. Data-driven instruction is largely based on analytics and various forms of analyzing data. Many of these different forms are based on statistics. However, the point of these analytics is that instructors can actually determine -- in advance to using them in their own classrooms -- best practices for teaching that are demonstrable due to findings that are rooted in data. As such, there is less need to rely on instinct and it is becoming mor readily available to utilize data to influence any number of means of pedagogy and classroom management as a whole.
2. What did you learn in the program you are now completing, including in student teaching, about the use of data-supported supported instruction? Which courses were most helpful in this regard?
There are many different facets about the use of data driven instruction that I have learned in this program. Some of the more salient points include what sources to utilize for finding practices that are supported by (relatively contemporary) data, as well as how to best implement those practices. Some of the courses that were most helpful in this regard were the Early Literacy Instruction K-Grade 2 class I completed, in addition to the Student Teaching in a prekindergarten class I have taken. These classes helped to familiarize me with the concept of data supported instruction, and also provided copious examples of ways to do it. Another course that was able to help me in the same way was technology in general education and special education class. Perhaps this one was even more useful than the other two since its focus was on technology.
3. What are the specific uses you have made of data-supported instruction in your practicum?
There were not very many of these students, but I was well prepared as to what sources I could utilize to inform the learning practice of students that were on the autism spectrum and which had Asperger's syndrome in particular. The course I took entitled Study of Disabilities in Infancy and Early Childhood helped to prepare to work with these students as well. However, I learned some techniques regarding basic socialization skills for these types of students through research in sources that offered data driven instructional practices. I was also copiously aided by the individuals that I worked with in my practicum, who were also using data supported instructional methods to work with students with disabilities.
4. What are some of the ways knowledge of and skills using data-supported instruction have made a difference in your instructional practices?
The main way in which knowledge of and skills using data-supported instruction has made a difference in my instructional practices is in my attempts at lesson planning. My coursework in general has influenced this process for me; additionally, the other professionals that I work with when I assist with classes for early learners are highy supportive of this aspect of my work as well. Still, it certainly helps me to know that there are myriad sources I can access that present data and findings based on data related to this particular area of pedagogy (early childhood instruction). I have verified and actually supplemented some of the information I have gained from my coursework and from other instructors by utilizing data driven practices to aid in my didacticism.
5. Critically discuss and evaluate the principle that methods of instruction and intervention should be data-supported. Should all instruction be data-supported? If so, why? If not, why not?
The vast majority of instruction should in fact be data driven. Data driven practices are actually influencing virtually all walks of life, from contemporary business…
