Quality Assurance

The following materials were developed by ECO to help states improve the quality of their outcomes data. For quality assurance materials developed by states, please visit the State-Developed Quality Assurance Materials page.

Data Quality

This table describes strategies for using data analysis to improve the quality of state data by looking for patterns that indicate potential issues for further investigation.

  • Pattern Checking Table [51K PDF]- March 19, 2009

Documenting the COSF Rating

This guidance is meant to help COSF teams practice writing the evidence that supports ratings given on the COSF. The written evidence provides a rationale for the rating and therefore should include examples of functioning that led to the rating.  The guidance accompanies the version of the COSF with supporting evidence organized by level of functioning, found on the Child Outcomes Summary Form and Instructions page here.

  • Guidance for Documenting the Rating on the Childhood Outcomes Summary Form (COSF) with Evidence Organized by Level of Functioning [193KB DOC] [382KB PDF] - December 13, 2010.
A local program developed the one-page document at the link below as a quick reference for teams documenting the COSF rating:
  • One-page documentation key [148K PDF]- September 7, 2010.

Guidance for Reviewing Completed COSFs

This document describes what to look for when reviewing completed COSFs for quality, including accuracy and adequate, appropriate supporting evidence.

COSF Record Review

These forms can be used as part of a process for comparing COSF ratings with assessment and other information in the child's records.

  • COSF Record Review Entry [126K PDF]- April 29, 2009

  • COSF Record Review Exit [128K PDF]- April 29, 2009

Implementation Surveys

The ECO Center has assisted several states in developing implementation surveys. Surveys of providers can help identify issues that influence data quality and help states plan technical assistance and training activities.