We recently hosted a webinar designed to help educators use MAP data to promote student directed learning. Armed with MAP data, students can begin to understand what their learning targets are, identify where they are in relation to their learning targets, and develop plans to meet and exceed their targets. There is an essential link between student self-assessment and formative assessment in evolving effective classroom instruction. In fact, formative assessment strategies that do not include student self-assessment may not lead to desired outcomes.
Using MAP data effectively can help promote this student directed learning and help facilitate successful formative assessment classroom instruction. In our webinar we asked participants a number of questions and below are a set of answers for each.
How do students use data about their learning in your class to set goals?
Acknowledging of prior mastery, scaffolding the new concepts, setting the pace of learning.
If I am at the RIT for the 52nd percentile at the end of 3rd grade, I logically have a few years to get to a college and career path level. What is the next set of skills or vocabulary that I need to have in my repertoire to make sure I am moving towards that goal – not just keeping pace with the rest of the students at the 52nd percentile.
Looking at DesCartes themselves and relating to class learning targets as well as their own strengths and weakness.
What are some ways you currently work with students to use their MAP data?
Goal setting, relating their score to DesCartes to put it into context with what they are learning:
Each teacher reviews their class data to determine an area of need. They then set a goal in that area with their class, and as they are engaging in lessons, learning is tied to their goals.
Rarely do the students actually KNOW what they are supposed to learn. Using the DesCartes for student conferences will clarify for them what they are supposed to be learning.
Student directed learning using MAP data can make a big difference in helping students evolve their learning. It can help them identify and set learning targets and develop – with the teacher – a roadmap to reach and exceed those targets. Each student is different, and while the teacher can’t develop a completely unique plan tailored to their specific needs, the student can.
How are you currently using MAP data in the classroom? Share your thoughts below.
