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In this study, the relationship between differentiated instruction, as an element of data-based decision making, and student achievement was examined. Classroom observations (n = 144) were used to measure teachers' differentiated instruction practices and to predict the mathematical achievement of 2nd-and 5thgrade students (n = 953). The analysis of classroom observation data was based on a combination of generalizability theory and item response theory, and student achievement effects were determined by means of multilevel analysis. No significant positive effects were found for differentiated instruction practices. Furthermore, findings showed that students in low-ability groups profited less from differentiated instruction than students in average or high-ability groups. Nevertheless, the findings, data collection, and data-analysis procedures of this study contribute to the study of classroom observation and the measurement of differentiated instruction.

In this study, a randomized experimental design was used to examine the effects of a digital formative assessment tool on spelling achievement of third grade students (eight-to nine-yearsolds). The sample consisted of 30 experimental schools (n = 619) and 39 control schools (n = 986). Experimental schools used a digital formative assessment tool, whereas control schools used their regular spelling instruction and materials. Data included standardized achievement pre-posttest data, the number of total assignments completed, and the percentage of adaptive assignments completed by students. Although the results did not show that the use of a digital formative assessment tool affected spelling achievement, the findings point to important issues upon which future research can build.

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