Three-part framework for effective data use: system development, a coherent use plan, and support for use¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 1 claim (1 for) · 2 studies (2 theoretical), q1 · 0 of 2 report an effect size

Description¶

The brief organizes effective data use in education into three complementary strands addressed across a brief series: developing and enhancing data systems, developing a coherent plan for effectively using data, and supporting the effective use of a data system. As the brief states, "This brief focuses on considerations for developing and enhancing data systems. The other two briefs focus on developing a coherent plan for effectively using data and on supporting the effective use of a data system." The framework treats infrastructure, planning, and support as distinct but linked conditions for data-driven decision making.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• All three strands—systems, planning, and support—are needed for effective data use

Constraints¶

Target Learners¶

• state education officials
• district-level staff
• system developers

Target Learning Objectives¶

• effective data-driven decision making in education

Claims¶

• Data in education often fails to move educators and policymakers or overwhelms them with extraneous information [+W]

Related Theories¶

• Three-strand organization of a district research and evaluation department: Instructional Support, Data Analysis, and Data Management
• Three sophisticated uses of postsecondary data to inform K-12 policy and practice

Examples¶

• Target data-system guidance separately to state officials, district-level staff, and system developers
• Three-brief In Focus series on effective data use in education
• Offer data-use recommendations and strategies targeted to state officials, district-level staff, and system developers

Key Sources¶

• Mathematica Policy Research. (2013). Developing and Enhancing Data Systems (In Focus Brief). Princeton, NJ: Mathematica Policy Research. https://www.mathematica.org/publications/developing-and-enhancing-data-systems