Which of the following best explains when a narrative interpretation is preferred over a purely statistical one?

• A. When the data meet all statistical criteria.
• B. Only when the data set is small.
• C. When communicating results to families and educators who need context and meaning.
• D. When the results are inconclusive.

Answer: (C)

Communicating results in a way that a family or teacher can act on is the key idea here. A narrative interpretation is preferred when the audience needs context and meaning to translate data into real-world decisions about supports, accommodations, and goals for the student. Statistics alone provide the what—patterns, significance, and trends—but they don’t automatically explain how those findings affect the student’s day-to-day learning or what steps should be taken in instruction and IEP planning. By weaving together the numbers with observed behaviors, classroom functioning, and practical implications, a narrative helps families and educators understand not just what the data show, but how to use it to support the student.

The other options don’t capture that practical, actionable aspect. Meeting statistical criteria doesn’t by itself dictate that a narrative must be used, and a small data set or inconclusive results don’t automatically mandate narrative interpretation, though a narrative can still be helpful in those cases. The emphasis here is on the need for context and meaning when communicating with those who implement supports in real settings.