How would you define data-based decision making in school psychology?

• A. Making decisions based on intuition or instinct.
• B. Making instruction decisions using objective data from screenings, progress monitoring, and evaluations.
• C. Relying only on teacher opinions.
• D. Delaying decisions until the end of the term.

Answer: (B)

Data-based decision making in school psychology means guiding decisions with objective information gathered from students, not just gut feelings. In practice, this relies on three kinds of data: screenings to quickly identify students who may need help, progress monitoring to track how a student responds to instruction over time, and formal evaluations to understand learning and behavioral needs in depth. When decisions about instruction, interventions, or referrals are based on this evidence, educators can see whether a strategy is working, adjust the level or type of support, and decide when to continue, change, or stop an intervention. This approach helps ensure supports are effective and tailored to each student. Relying on intuition, only teacher opinions, or delaying action can lead to biased decisions or missed deadlines for help.