Data drives most of our decisions in education. When I was a classroom teacher, it was easy to gather data about student progress. I am finding data collection as a school counselor more challenging. I see students at various times for varying lengths of time. I teach students strategies to use in the classroom and everyday life. Then they go back to class.
How do I know that what I have taught them is being transferred and is effective? I meet with teachers during scheduled monthly meetings, quickly in the hallway in between students or classes, via email and phone. All of the communication is wonderful but I still have no hard evidence that what I am doing is "working." I don't want to teach students random things that they are never using. I NEED solid proof. Pre and post evaluations are great but I want more regular data along the way.
So...my wheels have begun to turn. How do I collect data without making the teachers more overwhelmed by filling out cumbersome date sheets (they have enough on their plates, as is). I also become overwhelmed thinking how I will manage all of this data. I am currently seeing approximately 85 students in groups or individually on a regular basis. This does not include the responsive services I provide (when a student is in crisis or needs immediate attention), the classroom lessons I teach, the meetings I attend, the phone calls I make, the fires I put out, the emails I send, the paperwork I complete, and the list goes on and on........
The thought of gathering and managing data makes my stomach turn over a bit. But I am determined to figure something out! Stay tuned as I muster through this time consuming, yet very important data collection process. If anyone has anything they love, please share! I love seeing what other awesome counselors are doing!
To be continued..................