Archived Resources

Data literacy is a critical component of achieving and maintaining a culture of high-quality data and use. Working toward a high level of data literacy within an agency is an ongoing process that involves many steps and players. This session presented key considerations for improving data literacy, including how to develop and apply data to inform policy and practice and ensure that an agencies shares a meaningful story of the data with stakeholders that all can understand and use.

This session highlighted several benefits of documenting your state’s IDEA data processes. Developing a “playbook” (that describes the who, what, when, where, and how of your state’s process for collecting, validating, submitting, and reporting 616 and 618 data collections) memorializes those processes for your state and therefore helps build resiliency in your agency.

This workshop provided a brief overview of the new IDC IDEA Part B 616 Data Processes Toolkit. Several states that have piloted the toolkit shared their experiences with creating data processes for the SPP/APR indicators, building capacity of data stewards, and instilling a culture of high-quality data. Presenters facilitated discussion that helped participants understand the value of data processes documentation and afforded them an opportunity to experience preparing for and beginning this work.

Completing data documentation using IDC’s Part B IDEA Data Processes Toolkit provides many benefits to state agencies. After developing one or more of the protocols, state staff have seen firsthand the benefits of improved understanding of the data and communication about the data processes. This session provided a rationale for ongoing use of the data process protocols and how their use can help build capacity to create a culture of high-quality data at both the SEA and LEA levels.

This workshop provided participants an opportunity to envision and begin development of a comprehensive plan for creating protocols and follow-up activities they may use at both the SEA and LEA levels. Session activities focused on identifying appropriate roles to be represented at the table. They also focused on methods for engaging staff in the work and other critical considerations for implementing and sustaining these foundational data practices.

OSEP has provided states with data quality reports, now what? This workshop explored ways states can use the IDEA Data Quality Review and Year to Year reports to improve data quality. Participants engaged in hands-on exercises to explore how the OSEP-provided reports may point to systemic issues related to internal state processes or communication. Participants explored next steps after identifying data quality issues, including applying best practices for writing data notes, incorporating lessons learned into internal processes or systems, and exploring opportunities for support or training for LEAs.

During this session, the presenters walked participants through a structured process for guiding conversations using data and making data-informed decisions. The presenter demonstrated the flexible use of IDC’s Data Meeting Protocol across a variety of data and with diverse groups and stakeholders.