Mastering Data Collection: Essential Tips for School-Based SLPs
Hey there SLP friend,
It's the second post of our Back to School series and I'm back to chat about another school-based topic! 🍎
This one can get a little controversial….it's Data Collection!
As therapists, our data collection methods constantly evolve based on the changes our school systems may implement or our personal preferences. I'm going to discuss some points below that are good to consider prior to choosing the one that works for you.
Let's dive in and give you some of best tips! 📊
- Before you purchase or develop data sheets, check with your school district's requirements. Over the years, some have mandated information that has to go on data sheets, such as goals and objectives, a therapist signature, etc. Also make sure to clarify if you're able to take data virtually, or if paper records have to be maintained.
- Know your own self! If you wait to bill your sessions, you may want to take more comprehensive notes so you can fully fill out the information needed to make your note compliant for billing. The basic information on a data sheet should make it easy to fill out a SOAP Note, which means it needs a subjective section, objective section, assessment of the data collected, and a plan for going forward!
- Plan for the future. While having data sheets that have all of your caseload on one day may seem easier at first, it may be easier to have one data sheet for each child that you can refer back on when progress reports or IEPs are due. It's completely up to you!
- Keep them organized throughout the year. We know those caseloads are popping! Those data sheets can crowd up a binder quickly, so take them out each reporting period, make sure they're billed for, and file them in a folder or envelope. (Another thing to note that many districts ask for these records to be kept for a set amount of years!)
- Modify your data sheets to make data collection as efficient as possible. Using codes for absences or school holidays/activities, codes for behavior/participation in the session, and areas for easy data checkmarks or written notes is essential. Even modifying the size or format of the data sheet to fit on a binder ring or in the palm of your hand can help!
Is there anything I missed? I hope this series has been helpful and stay tuned for more!
Happy Speeching!
P.S. For more resources and ongoing support, join The Speech Therapy Toolbox! It's packed with valuable tools and strategies to help you excel in your school-slp role.
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