Erin Black

From this modules, I learned the value of using qualitative data to gain deeper insights into student experiences, instructional effectiveness, and industry alignment with a CTE program. I plan to incorporate regular feedback from students, teachers and industry partners to inform program adjustments and ensure the school is meeting both learning and workforce readiness goals. Moving forward, I'll use this data to support continuous improvement and promote a more student-centered, industry relevant learning environment. 

Margaret Coate

Qualitative data that could be collected on a CTE program includes student and employer interviews, focus group discussions, observations of classroom interactions, student reflections, and feedback on work-based learning experiences, which can be used to understand student perceptions, identify areas of improvement in curriculum, teaching methods, and program alignment with industry needs, ultimately leading to better student outcomes and program adjustments based on real-time feedback.  
 
Specific examples of qualitative data to collect: Student perspectives:  

• Perceptions of the program's relevance to their career goals  
• Satisfaction with the quality of instruction and learning materials  
• Challenges faced during the program and areas where they feel most supported
• Feedback on the effectiveness of work-based learning experiences  
• Concerns about job preparedness and future career prospects

Employer feedback:  

• Assessment of the skills and knowledge gained by CTE graduates 
• Feedback on the relevance of the program curriculum to current industry standards  
• Suggestions for improving the work-based learning component  
• Willingness to hire CTE graduates and potential areas for further training  

Classroom observations:  

• Teacher-student interactions and classroom dynamics
• Engagement level of students in practical activities and projects  
• Use of technology and industry-specific tools in the classroom  

Analysis of student work:  

• Quality of projects and assignments, highlighting areas of strength and weakness 
• Student reflections on their learning process and challenges encountered  

How to use qualitative data for program improvement: 

• Curriculum development: Identify gaps in the curriculum based on student and employer feedback, and adjust content to better align with industry needs.
• Teaching methods: Modify teaching strategies based on observations of student engagement and learning styles. 
  Work-based learning enhancement: Improve the quality of internships and apprenticeships by addressing employer feedback on student preparedness.
• Student support services: Develop targeted support programs to address student challenges identified through interviews and reflections.
• Program marketing and outreach: Use student and employer testimonials to highlight the value of the CTE program and attract new students.

 
Key points to remember when collecting qualitative data:  

• Diverse perspectives: Ensure a variety of student voices are represented, including those from different backgrounds and learning styles.  
• Ethical considerations: Protect student privacy and maintain confidentiality when collecting and analyzing data.
• Data analysis methods: Utilize qualitative analysis techniques like thematic analysis to identify patterns and recurring themes in the data.  

Beverly Wood

As someone with 15 years of experience in education outside of CTE, the past two years have been a deep dive into catching up with CTE terminology, quantitative data, and the unique goals of these programs. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is how critical it is to align data—both quantitative and qualitative—with program goals to drive continuous improvement in CTE, this is common regardless of the school setting.

Quantitative data, like industry certification rates, enrollment trends, and completion metrics, provides a clear snapshot of program success. However, I’ve found that qualitative data, particularly student voice, is equally powerful. By using tools such as self-constructed surveys or reflection forms, I will able to uncover insights about how students perceive their learning experiences, career readiness, and personal growth. This data adds depth to the numbers, helping us identify areas where programs are succeeding or where they need to adapt.