Educator-preparation programs come together around data at Inquiry Institute

Educator-preparation programs from around the country will gather virtually this week and next at Inquiry Institute to kick off a new year of data sharing and collaboration. These programs are members of the Common Indicators System (CIS), one of the largest cross-institutional efforts ever undertaken to gather and learn from evidence in educator preparation. Over the last four years, the CIS has accumulated data from nearly 20,000 teacher-candidates in 20 states.

Programs will enter the institute with an area of data inquiry identified, then join small cohorts to reflect, discuss, and analyze trends, identifying opportunities for growth and action. The cohorts have been thoughtfully designed to foster learning and improvement. In each, network peers will work together to address shared problems of practice.

The cohorts will serve as thought partners and supportive networks as programs examine evidence and develop and implement action plans throughout the year. Each group will meet quarterly to share progress, seek feedback, and offer accountability.

“We moved to a cohort model this year to create more opportunities for folks to connect and learn from each other,” said Sarah McKibben, Manager of Networked Improvement. “Our goal is to facilitate strong relationships that create mutual support and accountability.”

After two weeks of virtual reflection and relationship-building, participants will return to their own institutions with a shared understanding of their improvement area and begin developing solutions and engaging stakeholders.

“Inquiry Institute offers a rare opportunity for teams to come together and examine their institutional information in the context of data from thousands of teacher-candidates,” said Tracey Weinstein, Vice President of Data and Research. “We’re looking forward to supporting teams as they embark on this. Working through the improvement cycle together is a powerful means to create and sustain change.”

To learn more about DFI’s work to create networked improvement, please click here.