32.012 - Using NAEP Data on the Web for Educational Policy Research and Practice

Session Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

This course is for researchers and practitioners interested in exploring the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data through the NAEP Data Explorer (NDE) web tool and effectively communicating the findings and implications of these data to a variety of audiences. Participants will be guided through an examination of the data, focusing on 1) student, teacher, and school variables; 2) relationships between student performance and characteristics of students, their teachers and their schools; and 3) using NAEP data to supplement other educational research. We will discuss recent data from NAEP and demonstrate how the NDE can be used to mine these data, with recommendations for developing appropriate research strategies to take advantage of this technology in answering important policy questions. Participants will also be shown ways to be more effective in communicating the results of their research, using data in a way to tell a story that resonates with their various audiences. The course will include interactive presentations and hands-on practice and activities. Participants will have the opportunity to work independently and share their findings with the group. A laptop with wireless internet capability is needed.

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee

Instructors

• Debra Kline, Educational Testing Service

• Edward M. Kulick, ETS

• Emmanuel Sikali, U.S. Department of Education

• Joanne Lim, Hager Sharp, Inc.

• Debra Silimeo, Hager Sharp Inc

• Selam Maru