Method of Scale: Pilot-to-Scale

Component-by-Component

UTRGV sought to scale its data system first as a foundation for scaling other transformation components, such as candidate competencies or the clinical experience, believing in a data-driven approach for improvement. For UTRGV, data is the foundation upon which to build stronger partnerships with PK-12 partners and drive the nature, direction and speed of scaling other components.

Fidelity

UTRGV believes in a data-driven approach to program improvements. Several lessons emerged from UTRGV’s efforts to scale data. It is essential to include key stakeholders in the process of data review and reflection. This allows for multiple perspectives to be heard and ensures improvement efforts attend to district and college needs. Additionally, making data easily accessible to program faculty in as close to real time as possible makes it more likely for faculty to become active participants in program improvement efforts. While this work is an ongoing process, the progress that has been made over time is significant. Faculty now request data on a regular basis, participation at the Data Summit increases each year, district partnerships are becoming reciprocal relationships, and program redesign is data informed.

Funding

Both internal and external funds have supported UTRGV’s efforts to scale its data system. Funding for additional support staff was requested and approved at the institutional level. Dean enhancement funds were strategically distributed to provide professional development to faculty and help build capacity in data literacy. Improvement efforts were systematic, and the UTRGV was able to

demonstrate incremental success in and commitment to the use of data for program redesign and improvement. As a result, external funding was received to help support the development of a centralized data repository.