What are the skills and competencies required for learning analytics researchers and practitioners?

I have taken several AI classes. Technical skills can be taught in a classroom but the development of ethical skills is an issue. The ethics of looking at data and seeing what is missing is a skill that is generally not taught in data science but it matters when talking about the minority experience. We need diversity in the room that is creating the understandings that are turned into the algorithms that affect all of our lives but: -64.2% of data scientists are white. -18.8% of data scientists are Asian. -80% of data scientists are male. -3/4 of Whites don't have any non-white friends The considerations of a room full of Asian and White men, with very limited diversity palets, does not bode well for the rest of the human collective.

Skill Bank: Be Able to Tell a Story with the Data It is important for someone in a support role as a learning analyst and researcher to be able to tell stories with data because data alone can be overwhelming and difficult to understand without pedagogical context. Telling stories with data can help to make the daunting task of reform more meaningful and relevant to a wider audience, including parents, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders. By presenting the data in a way that is easy to understand and that resonates with the audience, a learning analyst and researcher can help to generate support and momentum for implementing policy or systemic changes that are grounded in evidence.

In addition to the learning theories of behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and connectivism, there are several other learning theories that are important to understand and apply in educational settings. Here are a few examples: Social Learning Theory Situated Learning Theory Experiential Learning Theory Understanding and applying a range of learning theories can help educators to design effective learning experiences that meet the needs and interests of diverse learners. By incorporating multiple perspectives on learning, educators can create engaging, meaningful, and effective learning opportunities that promote student success.

In Scotland, teachers are encouraged to engage in research and inquiry through the Scottish Educational Research Association (SERA) and the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS). These organizations provide opportunities for teachers to engage in research, attend conferences, and share their findings with colleagues and policymakers. In Singapore, teachers are expected to be reflective practitioners who engage in ongoing professional development and research. The Ministry of Education in Singapore provides funding and support for teachers to engage in research projects and to attend conferences and workshops.

The National Center for Education and Statistics (NCES) indicates that the last time the National Teacher and Principal Survey (NTPS) was conducted (2017-2018) 79% of public school teachers were White and non-Hispanic while 54% of the students were Hispanic, 54% were Black, 60% were Asian, and 61% American Indian/Alaska Native. Given that 3/4 of White people do not have non-white friends the effectiveness of pedagogical training, in order to compensate for lack of firsthand experience in cultural knowledge, is absurd. The statistics for Black and Brown college readiness and discipline testify to this truth.

Education in many countries emphasizes research and evidence-based practice, with teachers encouraged to engage in inquiry to inform their practice. For example, Canada's What Works Clearinghouse provides teachers with research-based resources. The US should prioritize evidence-based practice, collaborative professional development, and shared vision for authentic pedagogical reform to build trust and credibility among stakeholders.

From the perspective of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), strong communication skills are essential for promoting the accessibility and inclusivity of education, and for advancing evidence-based practices and policies. Researchers and analysts with strong communication skills are better able to engage with stakeholders, promote understanding and adoption of evidence-based practices, and create a more inclusive and effective educational environment for all learners. Effective communication is a key component of UDL, as it allows educators to provide learners with multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression.

Important Note: Different communication strategies may be required! ??For instance, a community stakeholder may require data and research findings to understand the impact of a new educational policy before supporting reform costs. ??A parent may need examples of their child's progress and multiple pathways to support learning at home. ??An educator may require strategies and examples of successful integration to incorporate technology into the classroom. ??Remember: If you can't communicate with different audiences, you'll be presenting to an empty room, and that's not very helpful! Ultimately, communicating effectively is the key to unlocking the potential of all learners!

??When there is a lack of trust, support, and effective communication collaborative input from paraprofessionals and other non-traditional educators can be seen as a threat: resulting in micro-aggressions and teacher burnout. Addressing these issues requires a commitment to building a culture of collaboration and trust, providing educators with the necessary resources and support to collaborate effectively, and fostering an environment of openness and respect for diverse perspectives and ideas.

While the article does not include the need for strong project management skills, the adoption of such a framework (especially for those seeking to support educators) is pivotal. #Agile tools in primary education promote collaboration, iterative development, and continuous improvement. They provide a shared understanding of goals and objectives, a commitment to achieving them, and enable quick responses to changes and challenges. Through the adoption of a project management framework (ideally, a framework that provides a proven set of processes, tools, and techniques for planning, and organizing, to achieve specific goals and objectives within a defined timeline and budget) the potential of our children can be unlocked.