Using Data to Improve Learning for All: A Collaborative Inquiry Approach

"This book will take you along paths forged by data trailblazers toward deeper understandings of the needs of students. The lessons learned will help you blaze your own trail."
―Page Keeley, President
National Science Teachers Association

Collaborative inquiry + effective use of data = significant leaps in learning and achievement!

Closing the achievement gap, reducing the failure rate of underserved students, and meeting accountability requirements are primary goals for educational leaders. This valuable handbook arms leaders with the tools to use data to work for students′ benefit, with an emphasis on promoting equity within a culturally proficient school environment.

Presenting a conceptual framework and practical methods, this resource combines a powerful collaborative inquiry process, reflective dialogue, and rigorous use of data to improve outcomes for all students. The book includes detailed examples of schools that have demonstrated dramatic gains by building collaborative cultures, nurturing ongoing inquiry, and using data systematically. The editor and chapter contributors show school and district leaders how to:

• Implement collaborative inquiry to meet accountability mandates
• Build and support a high-performing data culture
• Establish a school climate characterized by collective responsibility for student learning and a respect for students′ cultures

The user-friendly overview and step-by-step guidelines help educators develop and refine the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed to use data effectively and significantly improve teaching and learning.

Nancy Love is Director of Program Development at Research for Better Teaching in Acton, Massachusetts, where she leads this education-consulting group’s research and development. She is the former Director of the Using Data Project, a collaboration between TERC and WestEd, where she led the development of a comprehensive professional development program to improve teaching and learning through effective and collaborative use of school data. This program has produced significant gains in student achievement as well as increased collaboration and data use in schools across the country. Love has authored several books and articles on data use, including A Data Coach’s Guide to Improving Learning for All Students: Unleashing the Power of Collaborative Inquiry (2008, Corwin Press) and Using Data to Improve the Learning for All: A Collaborative Inquiry Approach (2009, Corwin). She is also well known for her work in professional development both as a presenter and author of articles and books, including Designing Professional Development for Teachers of Science and Mathematics (Second Edition) with Susan Loucks-Horsley, Kathy Stiles, Susan Mundry, and Peter Hewson (2003, Corwin Press). In 2006, she was awarded the prestigious Susan Loucks-Horsley Award from the National Staff Development Council in recognition of her significant national contribution to the field of staff development and to the efficacy of others.