Achievement Gap
Articles tagged with Achievement Gap
Boys ditch books when schools close – girls keep reading
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that when schools are closed, girls tend to spend more time reading and borrow more books than boys. This widening gap in reading habits has significant implications for education and literacy rates, as research suggests that reading skills are crucial for continued academic success.
ESMT Berlin to award new Executive Education scholarships for women in 2026
The institution will award full and partial scholarships for its Executive Education Programs to senior female leaders preparing for top executive positions. The program aims to strengthen women's representation in top leadership, offering essential skills and international connections.
Mentoring improves educational outcomes for socially disadvantaged children
A mentoring program in Germany found that socio-economic status continues to influence educational outcomes. Children from lower-income families were less likely to enter the high track in secondary school, but a mentoring program improved equality of opportunity.
Living in substandard housing linked to kids’ missed schooling and poor grades
Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that children living in poor quality housing missed more school days and achieved worse test scores than their peers. Improving housing conditions, especially reducing damp and overcrowding, may have significant benefits for child health and school outcomes.
Screen time linked to lower academic achievement among Ontario elementary students
A new study found that higher levels of screen time in early childhood are associated with lower scores in reading and mathematics. Excessive TV and digital media exposure was particularly linked to lower achievement in these subjects, especially among female students.
University of Glasgow launches Turner Kirk Centre for Spatial Reasoning to boost maths performance in children across Scotland
The Turner Kirk Centre for Spatial Reasoning aims to improve spatial reasoning skills and numeracy outcomes in Scottish schools. The centre will deploy a light-touch teaching method, MathsBURST, to reach 40% of classrooms by 2028.
MSU study: Screen time aids learning, but gender gaps remain
A Michigan State University study found that unstructured digital media use contributes to digital skills, which are strong predictors of performance across academic domains. However, the study also highlights a significant gender gap, with boys experiencing substantially larger benefits from digital media use.
Why parents should have a bigger say in how schools are run
Research by Ohio State University professor Vladimir Kogan suggests that students and parents have limited representation in school governance, leading to decreased focus on academic achievement. Parents and children make up only 20-35% of the electorate, with most voters prioritizing partisan issues over education.
Hearing loss lowers prospects of employment and higher income for young Americans
A US study found that young adults with hearing difficulties have lower educational attainment, are less likely to be employed, and earn less than their peers. The effects are particularly pronounced among Black and Hispanic individuals. Hearing loss can limit job opportunities due to communication challenges.
Scholar argues for move away from meritocracy in schools to redefine purpose of education
A University of Kansas expert proposes a shift away from the current merit-based education system, citing its limitations in promoting equality and individual fulfillment. By focusing on each student's strengths and interests, a new paradigm can foster personalized education and develop human interdependence, ultimately benefiting both...
A new mathematical model helps European regions set suitable targets to close gender gaps in education
A new mathematical model helps European policymakers reduce gender disparities by setting customized educational targets. On average, women outperform men in three of four indicators, with the largest gap concerning tertiary attainment.
Students build science identity through immersive research experience
A recent study reveals that community college students who participate in an immersive nine-week research program develop scientific and professional skills, build a sense of belonging in the science community, and increase their interest in graduate school and STEM careers. The program, led by CIRES E&O, pairs students with scienc...
Irish secondary schools among the most socio-economically equal for reading literacy
A new study by Trinity College Dublin found that Irish secondary schools are among the most socio-economically integrated in Europe for reading literacy. Despite varying levels of privileged and underprivileged students, Irish schools have relatively small gaps in literacy scores between these groups.
Screen time not harmful for academic skills of preschoolers
A recent study by Ohio State University found that low to moderate levels of screen time do not negatively impact preschoolers' language, literacy, and math skills. However, high levels of screen use at nighttime were linked to smaller gains in social skills, particularly for those who used more than two hours of media daily.
America on the move: How urban travel has changed over a decade
A Florida Atlantic University study reveals that while private automobiles remain dominant, the share of car trips has decreased since its peak in 2001. In contrast, transit, non-motorized, and taxicab trips have increased. Lower-income groups rely heavily on public transportation due to limited mobility options.
Black girls benefit most when STEM teachers train up
A study by Rice University found that students in classes taught by STEM teachers who received professional development training were more likely to pursue STEM majors in college. Black female students showed the greatest increase, with nearly double the percentage of non-AMP! teachers.
UCF researchers receive $2.6 million grant to equip English-learner educators, students for success
The UCF team aims to improve English learners' academic success and family and community involvement through a three-pronged approach. They will provide educators with research-backed tools, increase parent engagement through Bilingual Village programs, and train alumni to maintain the program beyond the grant lifespan.
Even in kindergarten, gaps seen in extracurricular activities
A study found significant gaps in extracurricular activities among kindergarten children based on race and mother's education level. White children were more likely to participate in athletics, while those from disadvantaged backgrounds may miss opportunities that could help them succeed in school.
Study finds school choice not offered equitably to low-income, less-educated families, who are forced to compromise more
A new study from the University of Kansas finds that parents from marginalized backgrounds and lower educational attainment make more compromises on school features, resulting in lower satisfaction. The research suggests that these parents are not lacking in understanding what would be best for their children, but rather face constrain...
Study: Live chat boosts college women’s class participation
A recent UNLV-led study discovered that women enthusiastically embraced live chat during pandemic Zoom classes, with ratings showing significantly higher engagement than men. The researchers hope this data can help colleges incorporate technology into hybrid and in-person courses to increase underrepresented groups' access to STEM fields.
Verbal skills main educational challenge for young children of migrant origin
A new study by sociologists in Trinity College Dublin has found that young children of migrant origin experience significant educational gaps, particularly in verbal skills. The research suggests that these gaps are already present at the start of school and vary widely across different migration groups.
Faculty mentor training program strengthens university’s institutional climate
A pioneering program at UC San Diego Health Sciences has trained 23% of faculty between 2017-2020, improving mentoring quality and faculty satisfaction, especially among underrepresented groups. The program's success suggests a universally applicable model for medical schools to improve diversity and success.
Which role models are best for STEM? Researchers offer recommendations in new analysis
A new analysis provides guidelines for deploying effective role models to encourage learning across diverse populations. The study suggests that features like perceived competence, similarity, and attainability of success are key to motivating students, while portraying extreme levels of role model competence can backfire.
Students who self-identify as multilingual perform better in exams
Young people who consider themselves ‘multilingual’ perform better across a wide range of subjects at school, regardless of their language proficiency. Research shows that encouraging pupils to identify with languages and value different styles of communication can support academic progress.
University of Huddersfield to award academic credit for LinkedIn Learning courses
The University of Huddersfield has partnered with LinkedIn Learning to offer academic credit for select online learning paths. Learners can earn credits in fields like data science, graphic design, digital marketing, and project management, enabling them to move seamlessly into undergraduate or postgraduate degree programs.
Income inequality can harm children’s achievement in maths – but not reading, 27-year study suggests
A 27-year study suggests that income inequality is linked to lower maths scores among US children, with even richer students experiencing negative effects. The study found that states with higher income gaps saw poorer maths results, while reading grades were not associated with income inequality. Policymakers may need to consider redu...
Study: Filipino, Vietnamese and Thai students are ‘invisible’ victims of inequality in STEM fields
A study found that Filipino, Vietnamese, and Thai students are less likely to major in STEM fields and have lower math scores than other Asian American students. The research highlights the need for policymakers to understand the specific needs of underrepresented Asian American ethnic subgroups.
Narrowing achievement gap among preschoolers
A yearlong classroom intervention for preschoolers decreased the achievement gap in numerical skills, according to a study. Scores on numerical and verbal comprehension tests were higher for children who received instruction from trained teachers.
News reports of education 'achievement gaps' may perpetuate stereotypes of Black Americans
A new study found that TV news reporting about racial achievement gaps led to exaggerated stereotypes of Black Americans as lacking education and increased implicit stereotyping of Black students. However, it did not affect explanations for achievement gaps or prioritization of inequality as a national issue.
Achievement gaps may explain racial overrepresentation in special education
New research suggests that racial achievement gaps, rather than systemic bias, are the primary reason for the overrepresentation of students of color in special education. The study found that districts with larger black-to-white or Hispanic-to-white achievement gaps were also more likely to report higher risk ratios. This method can b...
Underrepresented college students benefit more from 'active learning' techniques in STEM
Active learning techniques have been shown to significantly narrow the achievement gap between overrepresented and underrepresented students in STEM fields. In a recent study, instructors incorporated more active learning methods into undergraduate STEM courses, resulting in exam scores narrowing by 33-42% and course passing rates impr...
Active learning and educational equity
Active learning in STEM courses narrows achievement gaps by 33% and 45% compared to traditional lecturing. This evidence-based approach could reduce inequity in higher education.
Study finds relationship between racial discipline disparities and academic achievement gaps in US
A new study found a significant relationship between racial discipline disparities and academic achievement gaps in the US. The research, conducted by Stanford University and other institutions, analyzed disciplinary and achievement data for grades 3-8 across school districts nationwide.
Novel school improvement program can raise teaching quality while reducing inequality
A European study found that a novel school intervention program, DASI, improves mathematics scores and lessens achievement gaps in primary schools from disadvantaged areas. The program's effectiveness is seen in reducing the achievement gap based on socioeconomic status, but more research is needed to address equity.
U of M study affirms new strategies for reducing achievement gap
A new study from the University of Minnesota confirms that preschool to 3rd grade programs can close the achievement gap by increasing school readiness, improving attendance, and strengthening parental involvement. The Child-Parent Center program led to literacy gains in St. Paul Public schools.
One factor that may help schools close racial achievement gap
A Texas school district study reveals that teachers' sense of collective efficacy has a significant impact on closing the educational achievement gap. Schools with high levels of collective efficacy saw a 50% reduction in academic disadvantage experienced by black students.
Voters reward -- or punish -- school board incumbents based on white students' achievement
A study by Baylor University scholars finds that school board members' reelection is tied to white student achievement, but not to African-American or Hispanic students. The research also reveals that voters prioritize factors outside of schools' control when evaluating their candidates.
When it comes to reading, kindergarten is the new first grade
A nationwide study by Ohio State University found that kindergarten is now considered the new first grade for learning reading skills. While low-achieving students showed gains in basic skills, they struggled with advanced reading skills, highlighting a need to adjust strategies.
Boston College's City Connects initiative added to New Profit's K-12 portfolio
City Connects, a Boston College initiative, has received a $300k grant to expand its 'whole child' support services, addressing poverty's negative effects on education. Research shows the program improves student grades, test scores, and long-term academic success.
Science achievement gaps begin by kindergarten
A study found that kindergarten general knowledge is the strongest predictor of first-grade and third-grade science achievement. Children's science achievement gaps persist from third to eighth grade, with low-income and minority students facing larger gaps.
Income-based school assignment policy influences diversity, achievement
New research from Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy found that income-based school assignment policies in Wake County increased segregation, but those in other large North Carolina districts experienced less diversity and declining test scores for black students.
Closing the dyslexia achievement gap
Researchers at Yale University found that a large achievement gap between dyslexic and typical readers is already present in first grade. Early screening and reading interventions can help close this gap by implementing programs as early as kindergarten.
Early intervention in dyslexia can narrow achievement gap, UC Davis study says
A new UC Davis study finds that identifying and addressing dyslexia as early as first grade can close the achievement gap with typical readers. Implementing effective reading programs at younger ages shows promising results in narrowing this disparity.
Study links brain anatomy, academic achievement, and family income
A new study led by MIT researchers found that higher-income students have thicker brain cortex in areas associated with visual perception and knowledge accumulation, correlating with better standardized test scores. The differences in brain anatomy could explain up to 44% of the income achievement gap.
Bilingual school counselors help narrow achievement gap
A recent study found significant improvements in reading and math scores for Spanish-speaking students who received a specialized bilingual/bicultural school counselor-led program, closing the traditional achievement gap. The evidence-based program positions school counselors to show their direct impact on student achievement.
Benefits of preschool vary by family income
A new study found that preschool participation has a positive impact on children's literacy skills, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Low-income children, particularly those from Black families, experience the greatest benefits, while nonpoor Black youngsters also show considerable improvements.
Fun, sun and good books: UT experts say summer reading keeps skills strong
A three-year study by UT experts found that summer reading significantly improves reading achievement in students who receive books. Reading development is compared to athletic fitness, highlighting the importance of regular practice to maintain skills.
Obama's Promise Neighborhoods Initiative
The initiative, modeled after Harlem Children's Zone, combines public charter schools and community services to help disadvantaged individuals gain financial security. Recent research suggests that similar results can be achieved independent of community investments, but additional evidence is needed to measure long-term impacts.
Small classes give extra boost to low-achieving students
A study found that reducing class size in early grades raises achievement for all students through middle school and closes the gap between high- and low-achievers. Students in consistently small classes had substantially higher test scores in grades four through eight.
Study finds racial segregation a strong factor in learning disparities
A study by Emory University sociologist Dennis Condron found that racial segregation in schools is a strong factor in learning disparities between black and white children. The study revealed that black students' reading and math skills fall behind those of their white peers due to school segregation.
Achievement gaps within racial groups identified for first time
A University of Michigan study found significant achievement gaps within racial and ethnic groups, but also showed that substantial numbers of children catch up to high achievers in their groups over time. The study analyzed reading and math achievement data for a national sample of 8,060 students, revealing patterns of high achievers ...
Racial achievement gap narrowed by sterotype stress reducers, says Colorado U. professor
A new study by a University of Colorado at Boulder researcher found that an in-class writing assignment reduced the achievement gap between African-American and nonminority students by 40%. The study suggests that targeted psychological interventions could help narrow the racial achievement gap among U.S. students.
Professor receives $505,000 grant for study of African-American adolescents' development
African-American adolescents face unique challenges in developing a sense of self amid racial, gender, and socio-economic complexities. A new study led by Professor Jerome Morris will explore the role of class status and context in improving educational outcomes for African-American students.
Study: taunts of 'acting white' not enough to prevent black students from trying hard
A new study by UNC researchers finds that the 'acting white' phenomenon is not a major reason for poor academic performance among black students. Instead, school organization and stigmatization of high-achieving students contribute to the achievement gap.
Special school helps African-American, poor children close literacy achievement gap, study finds
Researchers found that Reading Recovery helped African-American and poor children reach average reading levels for first-graders in 16-20 weeks. The intervention narrowed the achievement gap along racial-ethnic and economic lines, with all students catching up to average levels.