Effective Use of Data
At the core of ‘Every School a Good School – a policy for school improvement’ is the effective use of data in self-evaluation and planning for improved outcomes for pupils. Research shows the difference that can be made at pupil, school and system level through the effective use of data, e.g. in setting high expectations, identifying underachievement and intervention, informing decisions on resource allocation and in monitoring, evaluation and benchmarking performance.
Schools are required by legislation to set their own targets for improvement, including targets for literacy and numeracy, and include these in the School Development Plan. There is also a need to promote and share good practice in the effective use of data in teaching and learning, classroom intervention and monitoring of pupil progress.
In support of this, the Department (DE) commissioned a review of school and pupil performance data. The objectives were to:-
- Review the range of quantifiable performance indicators at school level and across schools;
- Examine the qualitative indicators included in the consultation document for Every School a Good School;
- Identify gaps, and recommend how they can be addressed;
- Review the data on individual pupils held by schools on C2K, and recommend further developments;
- Make recommendations on “value-added” measures; and
- Examine the training that will be necessary for school managers, teachers, governors and ESA staff.
The full report, entitled ‘School & Pupil Performance Data’ can be accessed via the link below.:-
School and Pupil Performance Data - Final Report November 2008.
The Department has accepted the recommendations contained in the report and will develop a strategy for the effective use of data.
