ed7900mod1 discssion2

module 1: Initiating Data-Informed Change (Weeks 1 and 2)

Dramatic changes are taking place in Grand City, from changes in the economy and workforce, to shifts in the city’s demographic makeup. Grand City now is also experiencing the influx of many refugees from Risa. The impact on local schools and services has been tremendous, including falling test scores. Changes are needed at all levels to accommodate a growing population and new job opportunities. In the recent city elections, Mayor Tara Keller won a decisive victory by promising to address these issues. Additionally, she sees this as an opportunity to identify needs based on data, invest in new ideas, and make program improvements.

One of Mayor Keller’s initiatives is to form a task force with representatives from across the community to study the issues and to form a plan for addressing them. Unlike some task forces convened previously, this one will include leaders from across the community. Among the institutions participating will be early childhood programs, the school district, the community college, and private schools. Mayor Keller’s task force will be reviewing, analyzing, and evaluating quantitative and qualitative data about the city’s children, students, and citizens.

Beginning in this module, and throughout this course, you will take on the role of a member of Mayor Keller’s task force to analyze the issues and trends affecting education and the city’s future growth and to plan for needed changes.

Note that throughout this course, you will be asked to represent the perspective of your specialization. Whether your background is in early childhood, educational technology, special education, or another area, you will draw on your experience and expertise to contribute to the task force.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

· Analyze trends in educational and demographic data

· Evaluate guiding principles for educational change

· Evaluate educational program areas of improvement

· Develop philosophies of educational change

· Evaluate the use of data for change in educational programs and communities