Explanatory Figures

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Improving Achievement through Student Data Management
On average, there is little aggregation of student data in today’s school systems. Information is funneled, redundant and difficult to share. The technologies used — if any — are aging and frequently incompatible. An ideal state has complete aggregation and alignment. It is easier to ensure that students meet challenging standards, teachers target instruction, parents know teachers are helping their children, school districts know how to allocate resources effectively and the government knows how schools are doing. The first part of the graphic shows how the current educational structure exists as segregated information entities. Though each carries pertinent information, there is no central resource bank where all information can be stored and shared. The second part of the graphic shows the data warehouse, with all information located in one easily accessible location. The third part shows the capability of this structure, and the positive effects it can have on instruction and learning.

Online Testing: fast, costs savings over time, useful for instruction
By taking a web-based approach, states and schools use tests to focus on improved instruction through rapid assessment and feedback - not only to meet annual accountability requirements but also to improve daily instruction. Everyone benefits: teachers tailor lessons around child needs, parents know their child's strengths and areas needing improvement, and students get assistance where it is needed. The graphic shows the ease of transitioning to online testing, which begins with putting the appropriate technology in place and training teachers and students on how to use it. Students and teachers can then begin to expect next day test results and tailored curriculums that meet the immediate needs of the students.

Paper-based Testing: slow, expensive, not useful for instruction
One of the major requirements for NCLB is annual assessment of students in core subjects beginning with reading and math. However, the traditional paper-based approach has several shortcomings. The shortcomings include results that can take up to 4-6 months to generate, high costs associated with administrative overhead, and use of multiple resources to duplicate, administer, collect, collate, code, score and analyze the data. The graphic shows how the lag time associated with paper-based testing does not benefit students. Receiving scores over the summer limits their usefulness, and by the time students return to school, they are in a new class, with a new teacher, and have new material to master before the testing process begins again.

The Benefits of Online Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
IEPs are designed to create the best educational environment for special needs children. And yet, the traditional IEP is wrought with excessive paperwork. By moving to a web-based IEP, paperwork decreases and focus on the child increases. Special educators stay in the field instead of being lost to other less paper intensive positions.

The graphic depicts the two scenarios. The first, paper-based IEPs, is more time consuming and difficult to use because of the large quantities of paperwork involved. Reports are processed at a slower rate and updates less frequently. With paper-based IEPs, inaccuracy is inevitable. The second scenario is online IEPs. Putting all the information into one shared database saves a great deal time and effort. It allows for more accurate information that can be quickly and easily accessed. Student information can be instantly updated and decisions can be made based on the most accurate information.

Steps for Ensuring Data Quality
Data quality is more than accuracy and reliability. High levels of data quality are achieved when information is valid for the use to which it is applied and when decision-makers have confidence in and rely upon the data. The graphic shows six steps to follow in order to increase and maintain data quality. Each step is associated with a keyword and a series of questions to keep the organization focused on the goal of obtaining quality data to drive decision-making.

A Technology Framwork for No Child Left Behind Success
Each state can create a powerful technology infrastructure through the successful implementation of the following ten components: Data standards; data quality; aligned assessments/measures; automated data systems; data consolidation, security, and access; network connectivity; electronic exchange of records; technology infrastructure; data systems; academic/other performance standards. As the graphic shows, incorporating each of these components will allow for the collection of right data, the right way, right away. The path is clear - more advanced technology will ensure better success with No Child Left Behind.