Proper use of measurement and data is vital to instilling a growth mindset in your school, while traditional ways of wielding the measuring stick often fail to accomplish classroom goals. Unfortunately, many people associate measurement with test scores, evaluation rubrics, or even public embarrassment. In order to receive the full benefit of measurement, a process must first be in place with clear objectives and open communication channels. Teachers, students, and administration must all be on the same page.
1. Establish a Baseline
Measurement is a great resource for capturing a snapshot of your school, allowing educators to quickly see what’s going on in a particular moment. Metrics such as test scores, student health information, and others should be viewed as the foundation from which success can be built upon.
2. Set Shared Goals
Once you’ve analyzed the data, you can develop shared goals with your students and fellow educators. Using baseline data to motivate students works best when there’s a spirit of collaboration. It’s important to clearly define what gains you’re striving for and what it will require in terms of effort.
3. Tailor Your Assistance
Each school leader will offer his or her unique take on student assistance based on the previously established goals. Measurement offers a clear path of determining the style or appropriate amount of assistance necessary to achieve success.
4. Continue Collaboration
Maintaining a steady stream of communication is crucial to keeping everyone on-board with the common goal. Research shows that classroom objectives are met most effectively when students receive regular check-ins, constructive feedback, and encouragement along the way.
5. Assess Growth & Make A New Plan
The process should not stop once you’ve reached your goal. The key to continued growth is to look back and evaluate your shared accomplishment, identifying strengths and areas with room for improvement. From here, you can establish a new baseline and begin again.
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