Data Collection

• Data is very important, but can sometimes interfere with learning and teaching.  
• It’s okay to put your pencil down and teach.  
• Drop the clipboard and have fun!  
• But… be sure to figure out a creative way to collect data so that learning can still be measured (e.g., rating scale data, yes/no probe data, etc.)

More on Data Collection

• Even if only one data point is required, that should not be the end of your teaching session.  
• Teaching happens throughout your session; the data point is only the part that you’re recording.  
• Continue to teach after you’ve collected probe data.  
• Trial by trial data – don’t get lost in the clipboard – it’s more important to teach the skill! 
• Your goal is not the data, your goal is to teach (the data will always catch up with the learning) 

Trouble Shoot

• Child not interested in the game you planned? 
• Child is distracted by other things? 
• Don’t take it personally – Move on – Great instructors don’t miss a beat!
• Try to end the activity before moving on
  • E.g., Read a book REALLY quickly to get to the end
  • E.g., Magically say goodnight to all of the dolls at once