Descriptive Reseach

In class I shared a few examples of descriptive research that I've used in my workplace including NC Working Conditions Surveys (which are a big push from the governor), school climate surveys that are completed by students, staff and parents, exit surveys, etc. Although many people will find many possible flaws with any survey since they are only a snapshot in time that may not be wholly accurate, I feel that they are a closer glimp into reality than no snapshot at all. For all of their limitations, they do provide some direction and understanding that should guide discussion about what factors and indicators should be more closely analyzed and improved. Some may point out these limitations, but descriptive research, like most other research, provides the researcher with a more accurate focus. The discussions on improvements that follow at least have a perspective.

In Transformative Assessments, James Popham wrote that a flawed assessment is much better than no assessment at all. The assessment, much like descriptive research, gives a better picture than nothing at all and improvement is rarely made on sheer assumptions with no data to back it up.