What is the Education Gap

The education gap, also known as the achievement gap, is a worldwide phenomenon. In brief, it is the gap between the achievements of students from different geographical areas, different racial backgrounds, or from different socioeconomic statuses.

In many ways the education gap is a perceived disparity between groups of students, while there is some statistical data to back it up. In many parts of Europe, black students do not do as well in school as their white counterparts, while similar trends can be seen in the United States between white and black, and white and Hispanic.

There is little doubt that the education gap is a sensitive subject that many people are reluctant to broach, even within education circles. However, it is an issue that needs to be faced not just in the United States, but worldwide.

There is some disagreement as where the root of the education gap lies. Some would argue that it is based on racial divisions, while others purport that race is only a minor factor and that parental income and place of residence are the defining factors.

In many areas where the education gap has emerged as a problem a number of measures have been put in place in a bid to bridge the gap, with varying degrees of success. Examples of these measures include more funding for schools where the gap is most apparent, more highly qualified teachers, and increased racial integration.

In truth, these measures have made an impact but not sweeping impact governments and educators were hoping for. So the question remains whether the education gap can really be bridged. Another question is whether blacks, Hispanics, or those from poor backgrounds, if they do achieve higher marks in the classrooms, will be follow suit on the social side with increased jobs, income and higher social class.

The Labor Government in Britain is attempting to tackle the problem by using the educational system and schools as tools for 'social mobility'. This suggests using the classroom to change the students' perception of themselves and their position in society.

These measures did meet with some success. Absolute standards of education were raised across the country, however, the education gap was not bridged. In fact, it widened a little even though students from poorer backgrounds were getting better marks than before.

In the United States, the conclusions drawn from SAT scores make for interesting reading. From families with similar incomes, students from Asian backgrounds fare the best, followed by whites, blacks and latinos.

 

Written by: Frank J Klein - CIO

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