“Data” can be referred to as a raw output of an experiment or survey that includes the use of information collected or analyzed by others. When utilizing this data in the classroom it is referred to as any learning process that uses observations to the learning enterprise in a way that 1) supports student inquiry and participation in the scientific method, 2) supports effective evaluation of data uncertainties and applicability, and 3) improves student quantitative and critical thinking skills.
- Assess three significant questions: First instructors must answer three important questions: 1) how do I intend students to engage the data? 2) What research strategies do I want students to use? and 3) What kind of data do I want students to works with?
- Demonstrate how to implement data into everyday teaching.
- Aid with the creation of assignments.
- Watching: on the continuum of how students can engage data, watching is on the far left. Since students can learn from watching, instructors/professors can implement watching data by implementing a visual representation of data and then show students how to break down the information. However, this is not as active as other categories, so it is suggested that instructors/professors pair this category with another.
- Replication: in this category students have no control over the question being asked or the method used for answering it. But because of this firm direction, it gives students freedom to focus on other aspects of working with data.
- Guided Analysis: this analysis requires students to take slightly greater independence. Students are without a prescribed outcome and/or maybe even a prescribed method. Instructors provide enough direction to lead students to ask the right kinds of questions.
- Open-Ended Discovery: This is the most independent form of student engagement with data. Students must come up with questions and uncover data patterns that point to understanding the theory or process. This undirected exploration can be practiced by both students with problem-solving experience and novice students.
The ‘teaching with data’ method teaches students how to work with data, become better problem-solvers, produce the “right” questions and ultimately gives students a sense of personal achievement. Overall, teaching with data creates a more engaging learning environment.