Data-based Decisions and Analysis in a Social Science

Department

by Eric E Castro

Appeals for Advanced Placement courses

“The Department Chair will supervise the setting of criteria and the selection of students for Honors coursework. The process begins with the formulation of criteria at the appropriate level meeting followed by full department discussion and vote. Procedures for applying for inclusion in honors courses will be published in the course catalog and conveyed to the students by their current social studies instructor. Criteria are reviewed annually. Students who fail to meet the criteria may appeal to the Department Chair for approval to enroll in the course.”

Analysis ofQuarter Grades

Objective: Generate conversation among course levels regarding

2. kinds and frequency of assignments and assessments, and

3. the relative academic rigor of common courses.

Encouraging Professional Development

After confronting the perception that all is well and creating cognitive dissonance, what is the next step in using data to drive change?

Investigating Counseling

Department Concerns

In-class Assignment

Read the next section in the textbook and take notes using the provided guide questions.

When you are finished, get the quiz from the front. You may use the notes you’ve just taken for the quiz.

Data was collected from 352 freshmen.

“Eric,I read your SS minutes. I want to tell you that I really respect the fact that you did a quantitative study concerning the issue of stress with 9th graders and how that might potentially apply to WH1. I respect it, and it kind of made me laugh. A PowerPoint presentation to boot!”

Conclusion

Data

Reflection

Collaboration(i.e. Work)

References

• Learning Point Associates, "Guide to Using Data in School Improvement Efforts." 2004. Learning Point Associates. 5 Nov 2006 <http://www.learningpt.org/pdfs/datause/guidebook.pdf>.

Contact Information

Eric E CastroSaint Ignatius College PreparatorySan Francisco, CAecastro@siprep.org

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