Data for Instruction
Explore resources designed to support educators in using data to refine teaching and learning. 
- View a visual diagram of all six practices
- Watch a topic overview and download planning templates
- Listen to an expert
Explore the subtopics below to learn more about the recommended practices:
To learn more about the research underlying these practices, view the IES Practice Guide, Using Student Achievement Data to Support Instructional Decision Making.
Collaborative Structures for Data Use
Data for Instruction > Vision for Data > Learn What Works
Dr. Richard Halverson discusses the importance of integrating a data use plan with the school’s overall approach to charting progress and setting goals. A data team can facilitate plan...
Resource Type
Expert Interview
Data Collection Planner: Reviewing the Use of an Existing Data System
Data for Instruction > Districtwide Data > Overview & Tools
This tool aims to facilitate planning for improvement of data systems based on data collected from users. The tool can be used to identify data collection goals and to document decisions made based...
Resource Type
Tool
Districtwide Data System Implementation and Staging Questions
Data for Instruction > Districtwide Data > Overview & Tools
Implementing a districtwide data system is a lengthy process that may involve multiple phases. District administrators can use this tool to consider all aspects of the implementation efforts.
Resource Type
Tool
Learning Together: Considerations for the Implementation of a Districtwide Data System
Data for Instruction > Districtwide Data > Overview & Tools
This tool outlines a workshop for district and school personnel interested in learning about considerations in implementing a data system. Participants will also have the opportunity to discuss...
Resource Type
Tool
Protocols to Support Data Use
Data for Instruction > Districtwide Data > See How It Works
This sample material is composed of four meeting protocols to guide staff as they work collaboratively to regularly and systematically use data. The meeting protocols address revising action plans,...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Stakeholder Perspectives on Data System Use
Data for Instruction > Districtwide Data > See How It Works
Shotwell Middle School (TX) Staff members at a middle school routinely access data through the districtwide data system. This sample material provides an overview of how the different stakeholders...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Professional Development Assessment Tool
Data for Instruction > Data-Driven Culture > Overview & Tools
District and school leaders can use this tool to conduct an assessment of the professional development provided to staff for data use. Based on the results of this assessment and through additional...
Resource Type
Tool
Data Facilitator/Coach: Activity Log
Data for Instruction > Data-Driven Culture > Overview & Tools
Data facilitators/coaches or other professionals that provide support for teachers in using data can use this tool to log their daily activities. By tracking daily and/or weekly activities, the...
Resource Type
Tool
Learning Together: What Supports Are Needed to Foster a Data-Driven Culture?
Data for Instruction > Data-Driven Culture > Overview & Tools
This tool provides implementation steps for the facilitator of a workshop about the types of supports that are needed to foster a data-driven culture in schools. The workshop also focuses on ways...
Resource Type
Tool
Classroom Instructional Plan
Data for Instruction > Data-Driven Culture > See How It Works
Teachers from one high school collaborate to analyze student benchmark assessment data every six to eight weeks and brainstorm strategies for improving instruction. Teachers use this template to...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Professional Development and Training Expectations
Data for Instruction > Data-Driven Culture > See How It Works
The administrative team at one middle school has a well-articulated approach to differentiating professional development for staff to support the use of data for instructional decision making. This...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Structuring Teacher Collaboration
Data for Instruction > Vision for Data > Overview & Tools
Administrators and teachers can use this planning tool to review the collaboration times established in the school. The tool can help identify any gaps or overlaps to ensure adequate collaboration...
Resource Type
Tool
