Dr Loyiso Maciko
Seven delegates from South African universities participated in this Summit. Two impactful pre-conference workshops set the tone for a stimulating event. The first workshop highlighted the potential of digital learning tools in ensuring fair and effective teaching and learning. It offered valuable insights into how technology can positively intersect with education. The second workshop, cantered on building skills for qualitative data analytics using the Dedoose research tool.
South African Siyaphumelela Delegates attend the 2023 Data and Analytics Summit
The Data Summit offered a diverse range of sessions that delved into the intricate realm of data visualisation with a strong focus on equity. The commitment to fostering an inclusive data narrative, especially for small and intersectional student groups, deeply influenced the attendees. The summit equipped participants with frameworks and tools that not only inform but inspire action.
Speakers during presentations showcased the transformative influence of data in educational institutions. Discussions revolved around the practical applications of data, moving beyond dashboards and emphasising the importance of responsiveness and relevance in decision-making processes. This holistic approach to equity-minded data visualisation is poised to have a long term impact.
One of the key takeaways was the significance of strategic decision-making in analysing Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, a crucial insight often overlooked in the South African context. The Strategic Data Project's CTE Diagnostic Toolkit emerged as a revelation, offering a structured approach to interpreting pathway performance and strategies for improvement.
The summit underscored the crucial role of collecting and utilizing appropriate data to ensure equitable access to education. Understanding local labour markets, opportunities and characteristics of potentially disadvantaged students, highlighted the necessity of data in fostering social and economic mobility.
A session on measuring belonging, shed light on the complex relationship that exists between a sense of belonging and academic performance. This underscored the need for systemic measures to create an environment conducive to student belonging, ultimately enhancing academic success.
Apart from participating in the summit sessions, the South African delegates visited the Maryland University Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre and the Institutional Research Division. This visit facilitated engagement with university staff and offered insights from the Assistant Vice President, Dr Oliveira's presentation on Academic Technology and innovation. It showcased how strategic goals and initiatives could enhance teaching and learning outcomes through data-driven and research-aligned practices.
The Data Summit transcended a professional gathering; it served as a beacon for transformative educational practices. The lessons and insights gained from this event provide a blueprint for using data to question, understand, act, and inspire change. Reflecting on the wealth of knowledge shared, it is evident that data holds the power to bridge gaps, foster equity, and illuminate the path to academic and social success. The College Park Data Summit exemplifies the potential of data to shape the future of education.
Delegates attending the 2023 Data and Analytics Summit. Photo courtesy of ATD.