Monitoring can take on many levels. However, today, let us focus on the first steps on Progress Monitoring.
What is Progress Monitoring?
Progress Monitoring is a process where the Special Education Team collects student work samples, assessment results (formal and informal), pertinent documentation/records, and service provider observation logs. Team members then interact with one another in order to evaluate growth in current goals and to assist in generating potential goals for the Special Education student.
What are Goals?
Goals can take on many levels as well. However, the most appropriate goals are developed from the various sources previously mentioned. The goals that are most effective are those that include the above sources (data collection, observations, records, etc.). Additionally, it is recommended that service providers build a functionally appropriate relationship with the individual for whom the goals are written. Hence, the process of gathering data can the catalyst for progress monitoring in all service areas.