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.

The ECO professional development page includes a number of training PowerPoint presentations and activities that relate to ensuring the quality of the data.  An overview of the many steps to ensuring quality data is provided in the PowerPoint titled Quality Assurance:  Looking for Quality Data.

Pattern Checking to Ensure 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. The pattern checking table was revised July 2012. Work is currently underway to expand the document including information about how to use the table and example visual displays of patterns. The expanded version will be posted as soon as it is available.

  • Pattern Checking Table [51K PDF]- July 2012

The ECO professional development page includes a number of training PowerPoint presentations and activities that relate to ensuring the quality of the data.  The section on Looking at Data covers child outcomes data analysis and use and is designed for intermediate or advanced learners, particularly those who are responsible for or interested in data management, interpretation, and reporting.  The key presentation for this training is: Looking at data [2.14MB PPT].

Documenting the COS Rating

This guidance is meant to help COS teams practice writing the evidence that supports ratings given on the COS form. 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 COS form with supporting evidence organized by level of functioning, found on the Child Outcomes Summary (COS) form and Instructions page here.

  • Guidance for Documenting the Rating on the Childhood Outcomes Summary (COS) form 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 COS rating:
  • One-page documentation key [148K PDF]- September 7, 2010.

Guidance for Reviewing Completed COS Forms

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

COS Form Record Review

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

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

  • COS Form 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.