What is the purpose of progress monitoring in special education?

The purpose of progress monitoring in special education is to assess the effectiveness of instructional interventions. This process allows educators to track a student's academic performance over time, facilitating informed decisions about the teaching strategies being implemented. By collecting and analyzing data on a student's progress, educators can identify which interventions are successful in meeting individual learning goals and which may need to be adjusted or changed. This ongoing assessment is crucial for tailoring instruction to better meet the unique needs of each student with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the support necessary to succeed in their educational endeavors.

The focus of progress monitoring is not to determine the final outcome or to create standardized tests for students, as these would limit the individualized approach necessary in special education. Furthermore, while all students' performance may be evaluated in various contexts, progress monitoring specifically aims to measure the growth and effectiveness of personalized interventions rather than treating all students equally in their assessments.