Assessment , Data, and Instruction Professional Development Study Set

Under the current national and state testing requirements, the use of data in relation to assessment and instruction is absolutely key to raising student achievement in our schools.

The Ventures Educators’ Classroom Challenge™ Assessment, Data and Instruction study set addresses some of the core issues facing schools with regards to data. Topics covered include examining different types of data and assessments, data driven decision-making, and effective instructional strategies.

Participants examine ways of gathering, presenting and using data to make decisions at both a school and classroom level. The Ventures Educators’ Classroom Challenge™ Assessment, Data and Instruction program focuses on integrating assessment as part of classroom practice to ensure educational progress of students. Topics covered include authentic assessments, rubrics, performance-based assessments and parent involvement in the assessment process.

As they engage in the various activities, participants will use a variety of interactive strategies; these strategies are very simple but highly structured. These same strategies can be used with students in the classroom to develop their communication and higher-order thinking skills.

Self or Group Guided Agenda
Agenda/Week 1: High Performing Schools and Data Analysis
Agenda/Week 2: Identifying Significant Data
Agenda/Week 3: Data Driven Decision-Making
Agenda/Week 4: Planning and Monitoring Data Analysis to Meet Goals
Agenda/Week 5: Standards-Based Assessments
Agenda/Week 6: Monitoring Student Progress
Agenda/Week 7: Instruction: Teaching for Understanding
Agenda/Week 8: Instruction: Strategies for Improving Achievement

Book #1: What Works in Schools: Translating Research Into Action; by Robert J. Marzano; published by ASCD

Book #2: Getting Excited About Data: Combining People, Passion, and Proof to Maximize Student Achievement; by Edie L. Hocomb; published by Cowrin Press

Book #3: The Leader’s Guide to Standards: A Blueprint for Educational Equity and Excellence; by Douglas B. Reeves; published by Jossey-Bass

Book #4: Understanding by Design; by Grant P. Wiggins and Jay McTighe; published by ASCD

Book #5 and #6: Constructive Communication and Structured Thinking in the Classroom with Graphic Templates for Structured Thinking Skills, Vol. 1 (2 book set); published by VESC

Book/Guide #7: Ventures Educators’ Classroom Challenge™ 8-12- Week Self- or Group- Guided Toolkit with Agendas, Exercises, and Classroom Instructional Materials; published by VESC

Book/Guide #8: Ventures Educators’ Classroom Challenge™ Implementation Strategies for Constructive Communication and Structured Thinking; published by VESC