The primary functionality of Zelma revolves around its ability to transform plain language queries into actionable insights. Users can ask questions in everyday language—such as "Compare math scores in California by race/ethnicity"—and receive detailed responses that include visualizations like graphs and tables. This capability effectively democratizes access to educational data, enabling users without technical expertise to engage with and understand complex information.
Zelma compiles comprehensive publicly available data from all 50 states and Washington D.C. for students in grades 3-8. The platform includes over 70 million data points, covering various parameters such as demographics, subjects, and performance metrics. This extensive database allows users to conduct in-depth analyses of achievement gaps, trends over time, and comparisons between different school districts or states. The ability to visualize this data helps users grasp the nuances of educational performance more easily.
One of the standout features of Zelma is its focus on user engagement through graphical data visualization. The platform not only presents raw data but also converts it into digestible formats that facilitate better understanding. Users can generate charts and graphs that visually represent their queries, making it easier to communicate findings to stakeholders or incorporate insights into reports.
Zelma is supported by a team of researchers led by Dr. Emily Oster from Brown University, who is known for her work in education and data analysis. This backing adds credibility to the platform and ensures that the data presented is accurate and relevant. Regular updates enhance the platform's functionality and expand its dataset availability, keeping it aligned with current educational trends and policies.
Zelma operates on a freemium model, providing basic access for free while offering premium features for those who require more advanced functionalities or additional data capabilities. This pricing structure makes it accessible for educators and researchers who may have limited budgets but still need robust tools for data analysis.
Key features of Zelma include:
Zelma stands out as a valuable tool for anyone interested in exploring U.S. school testing data comprehensively. By combining AI technology with user-friendly features, it empowers educators, researchers, and policymakers to make informed decisions based on accurate data insights while promoting greater transparency in educational outcomes across the country.