Not Minding the Gap: Contemporary Uses and Expansion of the Achievement Gap Lexicon

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Critical Educators for Social Justice Poster Session

Abstract

Abstract: Our education system is not optimal for all, yet stakes are high. Inequalities abound, many illustrated by the achievement gap construct. This study uses a transformative framework to explore how the achievement gap is utilized in contemporary sources based on an integrated review of the literature and interpretive coding. Three research questions are posed: 1.) What are the themes revealed from gaps in the articles? 2.) What novel gaps are educational scholars advancing to describe historic and present inequities? 3.) How can knowledge of the use and expansion of the achievement gaps construct enable educational professionals to be more effective in their work? Four themes are discussed and implications for educational professionals are offered.

Authors

• Amanda Leigh Garrett, Buffett Early Childhood Institute

• Rose Wehrman, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

• Kristen Cunningham

• Dalhia Lloyd, University of Nebraska - Lincoln