Data meets Common Core meets Technology. Wow!

A recent article in T.H.E Journal highlighted a school district that was using technology to address two important concepts:  the new common core and data-driven instruction.  Obviously, I was taken with the article because helping teachers effectively use data is important to me.  This technology tool is offered by Texas Instruments (TI) and is called MathForward.  The program allows teachers to use whatever teaching tools they wish.  Instead of focusing on a particular textbook, it focuses on using graphing calculators and a navigator system, so that teachers have instant access to student data at all times and can more easily differentiate instruction. 

One common complaint of new technology initiatives is lack of adequate professional development.  This is not the case with MathForward.  The program provides teachers with five face-to-face training days, four days per month of coaching and assisting teachers with data collection and analysis, and four to five collaborative sessions with teachers working together in professional learning communities. 

What seems significant to me is that, according to this article, teachers spend less time grading and more time using instant data to differentiate instruction.  Though I certainly am not trying to promote this, or any commercial program, I do, by all means, champion what it is attempting to do.  Anything that helps us, as educators, spend more time looking at individual student data to tailor instruction seems worthy of consideration.  Below are two links to more information about the program.  One links to the TI website and one to T.H.E. Journal in case you would like to read the entire article.  I have also included a YouTube video about the program.

Texas Instrument's MathForward

T.H.E Journal

I think MathForward has great promise in helping teachers use data to meet students' individual needs.  Whether you are drawn to this program or not, I would strongly encourage you to subscribe to T.H.E. Journal.  The subscription is free, and you might be surprised about how much useful information you can get for free!