Data System
At the core of the Practia framework is a new type of educational data, focused on adult practice data. While this new type of tool is essential, at this point Practia is not selling a data system to schools. There are both programmatic and economic reasons why it is better that there is not a pre-packaged Practia data system.
First and foremost, if there were a system that schools had to use, then it would have to be “pre-programmed” with metrics for the essential conditions. This would eliminate one of the core principles of the Practia framework, that schools develop their own essential conditions, so they are meaningful and important to the local community. Taking away the power of each local school to set those conditions would remove a critical element of the autonomy of Practia.
Second, the lack of a “pre-programmed” system allows for schools to utilize innovation and creativity in designing their data systems. As school communities agree upon the essential conditions, they can develop the metrics and data collection tools that will be most relevant. The process of engaging in these conversations will be affirming and validating for schools.
Although Practia does not have a “pre-packaged” data system, there is guidance and support for how to develop your own system. The How it Works section of the website offers a simple way to collect and display this data, using tools most schools already have access to, such as spreadsheets (i.e. google sheets or excel). It also offers examples on what types of tools can be used to collect data, such as sense of belonging surveys, professional learning evidence and curricular assignments. And that connects to the final reason there is no Practia data system available for purchase. This entire framework was developed as a low-cost high impact strategy. Practia is designed so the system is functional, not flashy, thereby preserving resources for use in schools, to support the adult practices needed to create the essential conditions.