Data SGP is an analysis tool for the statistical software environment R. It has a user friendly interface and extensive online resources to assist with getting started. While the tool has been designed specifically for educational assessment data it can be used for any kind of statistical data analysis. The tool can be run in a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or as a Python script and it can be used with data sets that contain any kind of numeric, textual, date or time data.
The program is designed to work with data sets that are stored in a database and is based on the open source technology R. Data SGP is compatible with the major database environments including Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL and Oracle. It can also be accessed from a web browser using the REST API. The program is free to download and use for educational purposes. The REST API makes it easy to integrate the software with existing systems and applications.
In order to make the most of Data SGP, schools and districts should ensure that their databases are configured properly. A poorly configured database may result in misleading or inaccurate analysis results. It is also important to take the time to prepare the data correctly before conducting any analyses. This will help prevent the need for costly post-analysis cleanup and improve the quality of the analysis results.
SGP is calculated by comparing a students growth to that of their academic peers across the nation. These peers are identified using both the students most recent Star assessment and one prior test from another testing window (Fall, Winter or Spring). Students can be projected to either the current year or future years. When calculating projections, educators can choose whether or not they want to include all prior assessments in the calculation or only the most recent assessment.
Educators can use SGP to determine how much growth each student needs to achieve their achievement targets and goals. This information can be useful in identifying low achieving students and inform the development of accelerated programs that are tailored to each students individual needs. Additionally, by clearly outlining how much students need to grow, goals and targets can be more effectively articulated.
This tool can be used to view, download and export SGP scores for a specified group of teachers or student. The tool is available for both Windows and Mac OS X and can be downloaded from the SGP website. It is a simple way to get access to data that would otherwise be difficult to download and manage. The SGP score is a key component of the teacher evaluation system in New Jersey and is tied directly to a teachers evaluation rating.
The NJDOE links district course roster submission data with relevant SGP scores for each qualifying teacher to calculate the teachers mSGP score. This score is then converted to a 1-4 teacher practice and SGO score for use in the NJ SMART evaluation process. Teachers should verify that their course rosters are correct before submitting them to the district.