Data Use "Multi-State" Spotlight: Using Data Fidelity Tools to Improve Data Quality. Transforming State Systems to Improve Outcomes for Children with Disabilities

To evaluate interim progress toward the State-identified Measurable Result (SIMR), states require access to high-quality data from local education agencies (LEAs) and early intervention service providers. In a review of 2017 Phase III State Systemic Improvement Plans (SSIP), 43 Part C states noted limitations or concerns related to data and specifically data quality. Meanwhile, 36 Part B states reported efforts to address fidelity by providing a method for collection and use of data regarding practice implementation. In turn, concerns about the quality of local data create barriers to effectively evaluating the implementation of the SSIP and progress toward the SIMR. Increasing fidelity to the data collection process can improve data quality. This spotlight shares how three states used three different approaches to data fidelity tools to improve data quality. It concludes with recommendations for states facing similar challenges. [This resource was developed in collaboration with Christy Scott, Greg Feldmann, and Nick Whynott.]