email
Get the newsletter
Newsletter
search
Search blog
June 17, 2021 • read

Reduce Data Entry with Interoperability

Jacob Baumann
Product Manager

In this article
Share this story

What if you could give teachers more flexibility with classroom tools, while also helping them save time on data entry? Thanks to interoperability, you can!

Interoperability Overview

Interoperability streamlines processes by making it easy to use the same set of data in multiple systems. Think of it this way: Interoperable systems speak the same language. If Program A and Program B communicate the same way, then data from Program A can be easily used in Program B—no dual entry required.

Especially today, when remote and hybrid learning are common, many teachers are using multiple programs and tools in their classrooms (think LMSs, gradebooks, and other learning platforms). Ensuring these systems speak the same language can save teachers tons of time—and eliminate some headaches too.

Let’s look at an example.

Ms. Carter uses Schoology as her personal gradebook, but her school also uses the Skyward Gradebook for report cards, transcripts, and GPAs. Since her district is using an API (which allows the two programs to talk to each other), she doesn’t have to input the same sets of grades into both systems. Instead, she can enter them into Schoology, then easily sync them with Skyward.
 

Interoperability in Skyward

If your district is using Skyward’s Student Management Suite, you can save your teachers hours of time by using an API. Skyward has an LMS API (for SMS 2.0 districts) and a OneRoster API (for SMS 2.0 and Qmlativ districts). Once your district’s API is set up, teachers can create and score assignments in their third-party gradebooks and automatically sync those grades and assignment details with Skyward. Once assignments and scores are synced, grades will ultimately be calculated and posted in the Skyward gradebook. Not only will these syncs save time, but they will also help ensure data integrity by limiting the potential for data entry error.

If you’re interested in obtaining access to an API, get in touch with your sales rep to initiate the process. You’ll also need to contact the third party you’re looking to sync with (Canvas, Schoology, etc.) for configuration on their end. If you’re looking to sync with Google Classroom, you don't need to get in touch with Google, but please do mention integrating with Google Classroom in your conversation with your sales rep. (Note: Google Classroom does not yet sync with Qmlativ.) If you have additional questions, check out these FAQs (information about the passback starts on page 12).

Interoperability makes it easy for teachers to use multiple systems without requiring additional time on data entry. It gives teachers more time to focus on what they do best—teaching students—which is a win for everyone in the end.

 

Follow-Up Resources: Interoperability in Skyward

Check out these pages for more information on interoperability in Skyward.
Integrations page
Canvas integration
Schoology integration
Google Classroom integration


 


Thinking about edtech for your district?
We'd love to help. Visit skyward.com/get-started to learn more.

Share this story
About the author
Jacob Baumann
Product Manager


Read more from Skyward

Using Behavior Management and ESSER Funds to Recognize Positive Self-Care

Here’s how you can use behavior management tools and COVID relief funds to help students get back on track this year. 

August 17, 2021 • Tips
Technology Tips: June 2022 Edition

This summer edition of tech tips is all about personal wellbeing. Check out tools you can use to reduce eyestrain, improve posture, and stay focused. Plus, watch out for the malware of the month!

June 23, 2022 • Tips
Top 4 Security Tips from Skyward’s Director of Information Security

Keep your district’s data safe this school year! Check out these tips from Skyward’s director of information security. 

September 21, 2022 • Security

This site uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and to help us understand how you use our site.
To learn more about how we use this data, click here. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our cookie policy.