Workforce Developement

Growing up, I wanted to be an artist, teacher, and singer all before I even knew what education and life experiences would change my mind and determine which career path that I would ultimately choose for my future.

Take a look below at U.S. President Barack Obama on his 2011 American Jobs Act Tour in Emporia, VA as he spoke on the importance of education as it pertains to workforce development.  Throughout his speech, he spoke words such as “hard work is valued and responsibility is rewarded,” saying that as Americans, “we’ve got to step up on education and we must invest on basic science, as well as focus on putting people back to work.”

Well, the Virginia Longitudinal Data System (VLDS) is trying to do just that! Workforce Development Programs have become a much desired and needed resource for those who are unsure of their talents, unable to receive the proper education and/or training, etc. What if VLDS could help to aid these programs and perhaps even decrease the need for them in regards to future generations?

Over the past couple of years, I have seen workforce development in central Virginia make much progress in helping residents of the city.  Richmond residents have been given the opportunity to team up with The Richmond Workforce Pipeline Department of Economic and Community Development to participate in a job preparation program to discuss possible training and employment opportunities.

Photo Credit: Briana Williams

I was able to personally attend a meeting in which Laurie Brooks, Workforce Development Coordinator, and Jamison Manion, Workforce Development Administrator, gave a complete overview and discussion of how the program was designed to help residents find out where they are, where they are trying to go and help them to get there in the workforce.

Various jobs provided in the program are in areas such as construction, healthcare, food services, customer service, and even starting their own businesses.  The meeting not only served as a way for new resident to begin the program, but also as a way for residents who already were involved to follow-up on their progress and find even more opportunities.

The program strategically works with each individual, discussing the times they can work, whether or not they are limited in transportation, need childcare, have legal barriers, etc. Despite situations that arise, representatives find opportunities the residents are interested in and find employers who are able to help.

Photo Credit: Briana Williams

With residents facing such a tough economy, it was explained that the program could not guarantee a job, but would work diligently with each of them to get an interview.

“It’s kind of like a boxer.  We train you to get into the ring and then you are by yourself.  If you get knocked down, we help you get back up and get you ready for the next time,” said Manion.

Just imagine what database system such as the Virginia Longitudinal Data System (VLDS) provides, can do for the younger generation right now.  Just as President Obama stated in the video, “we must invest in basic science,” which includes this very important research initiative.  Although numerous workforce development programs are currently helping to place people into training opportunities and jobs, this database can only help to make the programs more successful in the future. Do you think that is could serve beneficial in helping to place these people in the correct fields and/or help to guide them in some way or another?  I certainly do. –BLW

Importance of Ethical Research & Data Management in Education

What is the true importance of research?  Let me rephrase that.  What is the true importance of “educational” research?  Well, it seems as though the answers to this question can vary from one person to another.  Some may believe that there is little to no importance in gathering such information and it is a waste of time and money.  On the other hand, others may believe that based on such research, better decisions can be made in the future when teaching and guiding the younger generation into their careers.

Big data systems, such as the Virginia Longitudinal Data System (VLDS), houses and utilizes a mass amount of this essential information, but why and how is it chosen and used wisely in the success of education?  One may wonder what information is deemed important enough to keep and what is simply disregarded.

According to the VLDS.org website:

These systems are intended to enhance the ability of States to efficiently and accurately manage, analyze and use education data, including individual student records, to

• improve student learning
• facilitate research to increase student achievement
• close achievement gaps

In addition, the value of such information in today’s society is found when it can help individuals in deciding which colleges or universities to which they should apply or even choose a specific career to pursue.

Now, that we’ve covered what educational research through these big data systems can do, how can one remain ethical when gathering and distributing such information?

Photo Credit: Research-ethics.net

The Resources for Research Ethics Education takes a stance on this issue and its main mission is “to promote best practices and evidence-based education in research ethics (responsible conduct of research, RCR).”  In addition, according to the RREE, the following criteria should be followed when dealing with such data management:

• Data provide the factual basis for scientific work
  The integrity of research depends on integrity in all aspects of data management, including the collection, use, and sharing of data.
• Integrity of the data is a shared responsibility
  All researchers have an interest in, and responsibility for, protecting the integrity of the research record.
• Quality of data collection depends on thoughtful planning
  Adequate preparation for data collection helps to ensure that resources are not wasted and that significant results can be obtained.
• Selection and analysis of data should be specified
  If the research is to be presented in a useful and significant way, critical decisions about selection and analysis must be made before the research commences, when possible.
• Data should be shared
  An open data policy reflects positively on those who share and benefits science by increasing the likelihood for new insights, collaboration, and reciprocal sharing.

Each of these is being followed by VLDS to make sure to take all precautions in the protection of  identities and personal information of each student within the database including using double de-identification security.  Now, with all of this in mind, what is your stance of ethical educational research?  Do you feel as though it as beneficial as I do? – BLW