data driven decision making

Data-driven decision making seems like a very logical, if not obvious solution to helping students that are struggling. The basis of the program is that it gets better information about the students throughout their entire educational career that helps identify where they struggle and excel. Having good baseline data and having Measurable Instructional Goals are the primary elements that are needed to make Frequent Formative Assessments, Professional Learning Communities Rooted in Student Information, and Making Instructional Changes. All of these things are necessary in making a child’s educational path complete and secure. By identifying the problems throughout the years, the teachers are able to see where their student may require extra help. Data-driven decision making also creates a sense of community throughout the school where the teachers work as a team to make sure their students have reasonable goals and that they are able to succeed. I believe the schools and their students would be greatly hindered without the kind of communication that data-driven decision making produces.

"Understanding the Digital Generation"

A lot of the information in the article was new to me, but I definitely was not surprised. The children growing up in this digital generation are learning in different ways and have interests that are far different than mine were. Because the impact of the digital world has become so huge, our world is growing to depend on it. For this reason, it is important for teachers to understand the technology that our children are growing up with. Their learning styles as well as their preferences (things like instant gratification) are changing. 

My honest opinion on this matter is that I know and understand that technology is important, but I find it sad that we depend on it so hugely to fit in to society. We place such a huge importance on technology. What happens to the kids that don't have the resources at home to adapt? What happens to the kids who are more adventurous and would rather be outside? I find it sad that kids would rather sit inside for hours and play video games/watch tv then go outside. The consumption of all this digital information is preventing the  younger generations to make healthy choices, be outside, and develop certain social skills that kids need.