Investigating Reported Data Practices in Early Childhood

Abstract

The importance of collecting and using data for educational decision making is clear. However, little information has been gathered about the systematic collection and use of data in early childhood. The purpose of this study was to explore teacher perceptions of data collection practices in early childhood. Participants included 137 early childhood professionals from five programs. Participants completed an online survey on current methods for data collection, analysis, and use, as well as if systems were in place, to support specific types of activities. The early childhood professionals who participated in the survey indicated that the vast majority of the items related to data collection practices were important; interestingly, overall importance ratings were higher than overall frequency items for all practices. The findings, limitations, and contributions to the literature are discussed.