Making Data Meaningful in Early Childhood Education Programs: An Exploration of Data Sharing for Organizational Learning

• In Event: 46.055 - Research Topics in Early Childhood Programs

Abstract

Early childhood education (ECE) programs are increasingly required to use data for program compliance and improvement. This focus on data for accountability purposes may create a tension between compliance requirements and a desire to make data meaningful. This study examines a data sharing practice, data carousel, of three ECE programs serving a culturally and linguistically diverse population. Using the lens of communities of practice and boundary objects, we conducted a comparative case study to examine how ECE programs use data carousel to foster organizational learning. Findings suggest the potential for data carousel to build a community of practice, but also highlights the constraints of using data carousel as a tool to create a more reflective learning culture.

Authors

• Dawn M Williams, University of Washington

• Aditi Rajendran, University of Washington - Seattle

• Kathryn Elizabeth Torres, University of Washington

• Ann M. Ishimaru, University of Washington