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Knowledge for Teachers

S03E04 - Dr. Matthew Burns on Effective Assessment: Using Data to Drive Reading & Maths Intervention

Feb 22, 2025
Dr. Matthew Burns, a researcher at the University of Florida Literacy Institute, brings his expertise on effective assessment data in education. He discusses the importance of understanding various assessment types and their purposes in driving instruction. Dr. Burns emphasizes aligning data with educational goals and offers practical advice on reducing unnecessary screening. He also covers effective interventions in reading and math, including strategies to enhance fluency and comprehension. His insights are valuable for educators seeking to improve student learning outcomes.
01:16:16

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Assessments should serve their intended purpose, as misuse can lead to ineffective teaching strategies and poor student outcomes.
  • Structured frameworks for analyzing assessment data can significantly enhance teachers' abilities to make informed instructional decisions and allocate resources effectively.

Deep dives

The Importance of Purposeful Assessment

Assessments should be utilized strictly for their intended purpose to ensure effective educational practices. Screeners are specifically designed to identify whether a student needs help, not to determine the type of support they require. This misalignment can lead to ineffective teaching strategies, as many educators mistakenly use screening data for making instructional decisions. It is essential for schools to conduct assessment audits to identify and select the most efficient assessments, reducing unnecessary repetitions and administrative burdens.

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