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Abstract:
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This study examined supports that facilitate teacher data use in schools . The purpose of this work was to extend the base of knowledge of general supports for teacher data use , leadership supports for teacher data use , and technology supports for teacher data use . Three research questions guided the study to determine those supports necessary for teachers to be successful in data use : (a ) What general data supports exist for teacher data use in schools , (b ) what leadership supports exist for teacher data use in schools , and (c ) what technology supports exist for teacher data use in schools ? A qualitative and quantitative data collection process with a single -case study approach included individual interviews , focus groups , and a survey instrument . The data from these components were coded , analyzed , and organized into themes and implications by implementing the 6 -step constant -comparative model . This mixed methods process provided a thorough evaluation of findings to answer the research questions . Two implications were found during the study . First , structures and systems for data use must be intentional in order to support teacher data use in schools . Contributing to the intentionality is time for collaboration ; professional development to build teacher capacity ; and clearly aligned district vision , mission , and goals . Second , technology support in the classroom is integral to effective data use by teachers . This support manifests in hardware support and personnel support . Hardware includes having the appropriate system that maintains the students , timely access to data and a user -friendly format . Personnel support refers to the integration of technology into teaching and learning , teacher -to -teacher support , and an alleviation of distrust through positive interaction with data . Further analysis revealed implications for practice , including the importance of creating structures and developing a plan for data use . |