What is the purpose of data collection in school psychology?

The purpose of data collection in school psychology is primarily to inform decision-making regarding interventions. This process involves gathering relevant information about students' behavior, learning styles, academic performance, and social-emotional well-being. By analyzing this data, school psychologists can identify students' needs, assess the effectiveness of current interventions, and develop tailored strategies that best support student success.

Data collection aids in making informed decisions about the types of supports and services that may be necessary, ensuring that interventions are evidence-based and aligned with the specific challenges a student faces. This systematic approach ultimately leads to more effective educational practices and improved outcomes for students.

The other options, while related to various administrative or evaluative tasks, do not capture the central goal of data collection in school psychology. Filing legal documentation, evaluating teacher performance, and maintaining student attendance records serve different purposes within the broader educational context and do not focus specifically on the psychological and educational needs of the students.