Although advances in technology have helped make data management more efficient, one side effect has been the "just in time" database with indecipherable data names and ambiguous data definitions, if they exist at all. In this presentation, we take a look at how developing common, comprehensive data names and definitions containing the true meaning and content of the data, can help reduce redundant data collection, clarify data disparity, and lead to better data quality.

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Challenging Bad Habits: Comprehensive Data Naming and Defining
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What is the "state of the states" with respect to data systems? To what extent do their future plans reflect a set of common national goals? What unique attributes do they have from which other states can learn? Spurred by a confluence of No Child Left Behind, Federal and state funding, and recent data systems innovations, all 50 states are in process of developing or enhancing Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems in support of student achievement and increased reporting capacity. This session reviews the current status of data systems across the US as well as intended paths for future development. Particular emphasis will be placed on common themes and unique characteristics of the plans with respect to data systems development, data definitions and metadata structures, Schools Interoperability Framework (SIF) compliance, interface design and implementation, systems maintenance, and user training and support.

Iowa's district-level biannual submissions have changed during the past 10 years from a required district-level summary submission through voluntary student-level submissions to the current required student-level submissions. Changes occurring on all levels involve an evolution of the web-based interface for submission, on-going cooperative ventures with student information system vendors, and continual training for districts. Learn how Iowa is dealing with the ever-changing data requirements and the work being done with the growing customer base in various avenues such as unique state IDs, legislative requirements, state assessments, and data quality.

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Project EASIER: Ten Years of Progress (2.45 MB)

The Common Core of Data (CCD) web-based data collection system is in its second year. CCD data collection staff will describe changes for 2005-2006 and future collections, demonstrate the system, answer questions, and provide one-on-one guidance for CCD coordinators. Also in this session will be a discussion of the CCD edits and quality control features leading to faster processing and quicker feedback to state CCD coordinators and other state officials.

As we quickly discovered in the aftermath brought by the hurricanes this past year, it is essential that we have processes in place to meet the needs of the staff, students, and parents we serve. We believe data standards are a key component as we begin to exchange data so students may continue with the learning process with few delays.

Join us as we present the Schools Interoperability Framework solution for Academic Records Exchange using E-Transcripts. We will focus on the movement of data between entities and the extensive data required to gain a complete picture of a student's academic history. We will highlight the work of the E-Transcript Task Force and discuss the commonalities and differences with the Postsecondary Electronic Standards Council.

In a ten month period, New Hampshire has gone from no student level data to state identifiers for all public school students, as well as student level data for both school years 2004-2005 and 2005-2006. Schools began requesting State Identifiers for their students in February 2005. By November we had five student level collections submitted by every school/district: assessment test label requests; end-of-year enrollment; end-of-year academic; beginning-of-year enrollment; and free-and-reduced information. Critical to our success was the use of the Center for Data Quality's verification software that, combined with our web development, allowed districts/schools to submit and verify data online and on their own.

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The Initiative For School Empowerment
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