How to Use the Models for Change Information Sharing Tool Kit – Second Edition
The Models for Change Information Sharing Tool Kit – 2d Edition is organized according to a three-category Information Sharing Framework:
- Category One: Information Sharing for Purposes of Individual Case Planning and Decision-making
- Category Two: Data Collection and Sharing for Law, Policy, and Program Development
- Category Three: Data Collection and Sharing for Performance Measurement and Program Evaluation
Before delving into a project, it is critical for stakeholders to first determine which category or categories of information sharing they wish to address through an initiative, as unique issues and challenges pertain to each category. Consult the Information Sharing Framework to determine what type of information or data sharing your jurisdiction is undertaking. Once you’ve ascertained the appropriate category, go to the “mini” Tool Kit for that category. Each “mini” Tool Kit contains the following elements which are specific to that category of information sharing:
Federal Law Overview. This comprehensive analysis of the major federal confidentiality laws includes a special emphasis as to how these laws apply to the records of children in the juvenile justices and child welfare systems.
State Law. This section provides resources for researching state confidentiality laws.
Interactive Scenarios. These scenarios are based on real cases that raised information/data sharing questions for professionals in the field. You can test your knowledge of federal confidentiality laws by answering five key questions for each scenario; an answer key is provided.
Principles. This is a set of core principles or positive values that should undergird all information/data collection and sharing projects.
Guidelines. Jurisdictions can follow these step-by-step guidelines to develop and implement an information/data collection and sharing project. The guidelines refer the user to specific tools that can be utilized to accomplish the tasks associated with the guidelines. The various tools include worksheets, templates, sample matrices of state laws, sample memoranda of understanding (MOUs), and sample authorization to release record forms.
Case Studies. These describe the experiences of jurisdictions in developing and implementing an information/data collection and sharing initiative.
It is recommended that stakeholders first review the Principles and Guidelines in the selected category. The stakeholders should then undertake the steps described in the first Guideline as they are designed to establish the foundation for any information/data collection and sharing initiative. The subsequent Guidelines are organized in a roughly sequential order; however, some of the steps can be done concurrently. The key is for the stakeholders to develop a work plan with a timeline and assignments for each of the steps.
The second edition of the Tool Kit is not available in hard copy; however, users can download any of the materials from this microsite. Anyone may use the material on this microsite for educational purposes so long as you identify the material as being the property of Juvenile Law Center and the RFK National Resource Center for Juvenile Justice. You must contact Juvenile Law Center to request permission if you wish to use the materials on this microsite for commercial purposes in print, electronic, or any other medium, or if you wish to alter the content of the material.
The material presented on this microsite is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.