The principle emphasizes leveraging information to guide instructional coaching practices. This approach posits that decisions regarding coaching focus, strategy, and evaluation should be grounded in measurable evidence. For example, instead of simply assuming a teacher needs help with classroom management, this principle would advocate for analyzing data such as student engagement levels, disciplinary referrals, or observational records to pinpoint the specific area requiring attention and tailor the coaching intervention accordingly.
This evidence-based methodology enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of coaching initiatives. By replacing assumptions with concrete findings, resources are directed where they can generate the most significant impact. Furthermore, this systematic approach fosters accountability and allows for the objective assessment of coaching outcomes, contributing to continuous improvement within the educational system. Historically, coaching decisions were often based on subjective impressions; the shift towards data-driven methods represents a move towards greater rigor and demonstrable results.
