The Gifted Gap, STEM Education, and Economic Immobility

• In Event: 47.066 - Gap in Education

Abstract

Systemic inequities in educational opportunities contribute to reduced economic mobility (Farinde, Adams & Lewis, 2014; Pekkarinen, Uusitalo, & Kerr, 2009). Disproportionality in gifted education is documented at national and state levels, however limited research examines inequities within districts (McBee, 2010; Wright, Ford, & Young, 2017). Informed by critical systems theory, this research investigates the Gifted Gap in a metropolitan area with limited economic mobility. Results reveal underrepresentation for students experiencing poverty, and Black and Latinx students of all socioeconomic groups, a barrier that may impede their participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) research, education and innovation. Addressing inequities in gifted education at the district level is a promising way to broaden participation in STEM and increase economic mobility.

Authors

• Lenora Mosley Crabtree, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Sonyia Richardson, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Chance W. Lewis, University of North Carolina - Charlotte