Fundamentals of Data Use Course
Questions and Answers
The time is drawing near for an opportunity to learn more about data analysis, all while earning a graduate credit! This June, the South Dakota Department of Education, in cooperation with the University of South Dakota, is offering a graduate-level course called Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators. Following are some questions and answers about this summer’s offering:
Q: What course will be offered this summer?
A: The South Dakota Department of Education plans to offer the Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators course. This one-credit course gives a broad overview of the skills educators need to successfully use data in their classrooms, schools, and districts. Participants will complete a project in which they will use data to answer important questions to drive positive change.
This is the second year the class will be offered online. The course is split among three sessions: June 8 (4 hours), June 10 (2 hours), and June 17 (2 hours). Each session will provide instruction for participants to work on a data project in small pieces.
Q: Who should attend this course?
A: All South Dakota educators interested in analyzing student data are invited to attend the Fundamentals of Data Use course. This includes school and district administrators and teachers.
Q: Why take this course?
A: The Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators course helps educators understand and effectively use data. Doing so assists educators in making informed decisions to foster powerful improvements in student outcomes.
Q: What about COVID-19?
A: The Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators course will be delivered online via Zoom this summer.
Q: Do I need access to data?
A: We will discuss many types of data. If you have access to data specific to your school, you will have a head start on your data project. We will explore other ways to find data, including through SD-STARS, the department’s website, and the Accountability Report Card.
Q: Do I need additional software to take this course?
A: Participants will use Google Classroom to submit assignments. If your organization’s firewall prevents you from using Google products, alternative arrangements can be made for assignments. Additionally, spreadsheet software such as Excel and word processing software such as Microsoft Word are helpful to finish the data project.
Q: What are the requirements for participants?
A: There is no prerequisite, and participants are not required to purchase a textbook. All class materials will be made available free of charge, including short articles to read before the first session. Participants are eligible to receive one graduate credit, provided they attend the entire course and submit a data project.
Q: Is there a cost?
A: Participation is free for all who do not wish to earn graduate credits. Graduate credits are available through the University of South Dakota at a discounted rate ($40/credit hour). Information on USD registration/payment will be communicated to all enrollees via email. Those who register for credit through USD will receive an A-F grade.
Q: I have more questions. Who may I contact?
A: You may contact STARSHelp@state.sd.us with further questions. We look forward to hearing from you!
To register for this course and find more information, go to https://southdakota.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=13122.
Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators: Session #1
Tuesday, Jun 8, 2021, 08:30 AM
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Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators: Session #2
Thursday, Jun 10, 2021, 10:00 AM
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Fundamentals of Using Data for Educators: Session #3
This session's listing is in Central time.