You’re Not a Data Robot: Collect Less, Teach More, and Still Show Progress

In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie is serving up some real talk about data collection—and it might just change the way you run your sessions. If you've ever felt more like a clipboard than a clinician, or wondered why your students seem disengaged halfway through therapy, this one's your permission slip to breathe. Hallie breaks down why constant data collection can actually block progress, how to collect better data (not just more of it), and why teaching always needs to come before testing. She's sharing practical strategies for mixed groups, explaining why one quality data point is enough, and reminding us all that connection matters more than tally marks.Bullet Points to Discuss: Why constant data collection turns therapy into testing instead of teaching. The power of anecdotal data over endless tally marks and percentages. How to break down annual goals into smaller, achievable milestones. Teaching first, data second: a framework for more effective sessions. Managing data collection in mixed groups with limited time.Here’s what we learned: Students don't grow from being measured—they grow from being supported. One quality data point per session is still meaningful data. Anecdotal notes tell the story that numbers alone can't capture. You don't need to target the annual goal every single session—pit stops and detours are part of the journey. Connection over data collection leads to real, meaningful progress and student engagement.Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup📘✨ Grab your copy of The Secondary SLP Roadmap here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/stf-bookSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets