Why  these data collection methods? 

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To gather a holistic picture of how my students were responding to various pedagogical approaches, I utilized qualitative and quantitative data collection measures. While I took into account every piece of data that was collected and mentioned above, the following pieces are what I focused on as I triangulated the data to accurately measure the growth of my students.

​1. Student writing samples were a very beneficial tool to use for data collection because they provided a clear picture of how my students grew as writers. For this study specifically, I looked at how my students grew in the areas of Ideas and Organization. As I scored student writing samples using the district provided rubric, it was easy to see if students demonstrated growth in these areas or not. Students also had access to these rubrics and frequently used them while editing and revising. Exposure to the rubric ensured that writing expectations were clear to students. 

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2. Writing Dispositions allowed me to see things from the perspective of my students. I was able to acknowledge how students felt about themselves in different areas of writing, in comparison to how I, as the teacher, felt about their abilities. This data collection method allowed me to hone in on areas where students struggled and challenge them in areas that they felt confident. 

3. Self-Assessments were a beneficial data collection method because they provided students with the opportunity to share their honest feedback about their writing experiences and reflect on their learning. Through student self-assessment, I could then collect data on what students felt that they had learned and what they took away from writing lessons. 

I felt that these data collection methods were best for my students for a few reasons. When assessing student writing samples, I utilized a rubric provided by the district, therefore providing students with exposure to a tool they would be using in future grades within our district. This exposure allowed students to become more familiar and comfortable with how their teacher was assessing them. Writing dispositions allowed my students to practice metacognition. They were able to reflect on how they feel about their writing abilities and how this may impact their level of success. Students will not often take the time and put in the effort to consider this unless provided with the opportunity by their teacher. The value of self-assessments tie into the previous explanations. With this data collection method, students are able to deeply process through their strengths and areas for growth so that they can become stronger writers.