Developing Engagement with Data

Abstract

Whichever approach to the use of data to improve student learning is taken, the key locus of decision making eventually lies with the teacher. Effective engagement of teachers in the use of data within schools has been shown to require appropriate leadership and a school culture of inquiry. In this chapter, research on some key practices for teacher engagement in use of data is reviewed: development of self-motivation and self-efficacy; encouragement of teacher collaboration, professional learning communities and social networks; and promotion of professional development and learning. Student engagement in their own learning is critical for implementation of action plans based on data, but especially for enactment of assessment for learning. Research on student engagement is reviewed, and shows that key practices for effective student engagement parallel those for teacher engagement.