Reporting document analysis results

STEP 7. Analyze data

Rather than merely describing documents, examine them critically, applying coding principles.[more] Label repeating ideas and then larger themes in your approach.   Include questions about the instructional purpose of the document; how instructors and students are using it; and how it is (or is not) contributing to learning. [more]

STEP 8. Make conclusions

Base conclusions on the objectives you set for your analysis. A document analysis can tell you when changes may be needed for instruction, content, or assignments.    For example, after data analysis, an instructor concluded that she relied heavily on written and aural communication during lectures and decided to incorporate more visual and kinesthetic elements. The next time she taught the course, she included more graphs, photographs, and diagrams and created demonstrations and interactive exercises in which students applied concepts.  

STEP 9. Report results

Whether you formally report findings depends on the purpose of your evaluation. For an instructional formative evaluation, share the results with students or explain changes you will make in future assignments as the result of your analysis, to demonstrate your commitment to their learning. For a summative evaluation, you may wish to share findings with colleagues or include the findings as part of your teaching portfolio.