ABSTRACT
The relationship linking assessment and instruction is the cornerstone of student progress. This connection is likely to become increasingly important as technology makes it possible to use data to implement teaching practices that ensure individual student achievement (Hosp, 2010; Safer & Fleischman, 2005). This chapter describes the design of a web-based learning analytics system intended to improve children’s literacy by tracking their academic performance over time and using the data to personalize instruction. We describe four design cycles that have occurred to date. Within each cycle we outline the theory behind the design, explain key design issues that influenced the design process, and examine data from implementation research. Throughout the design process we have faced complex challenges from which we have learned important lessons. We conclude by briefly describing our research agenda and reflecting on our experiences.
