Data Collection in Evaluation

Evaluators collect data in many ways, and always collect data in as many ways as possible and from as many sources as possible. Examples of some data collection methods and purposes are:

• behavior observation checklist to record how frequently teachers use a new teaching reinforcement technique
• interviews with students about their reactions towards a technology-based curriculum
• journals to record student reflections on a new classroom management strategy
• parental and staff surveys to assess opinions about a new policy

On average, we conduct 30 survey research projects every year, involving over 30,000 respondents. Student and parent surveys are conducted to evaluate school climate. 

Surveys are a frequently used method of data collection to help individual schools fulfill accountability requirements.

Survey design is a careful process to ensure that survey questions are unambiguous and able to yield accurate information.

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