PSYC12H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Achievement Gap In The United States, Standardized Test
Document Summary
Achievement gap has narrowed but the race gap not changed in significant way in 90s: data reveals some similarities in gender gap in math and science achievement and engagement. Gap is narrow in high school but grows in university entrance tests. Women remain minority in field of science, technology and math: explanations for achievement gap typically invoke nature or nurture. The book the bell curve suggested that blacks and latinos do worse b/c they"re genetically predisposition w/inferior intelligence. Similar suggestions attempt to explain women"s under representation in math and science. On the nurture side the view is that racial, ethnic religious minorities and women are products of sociocultural environ that impede their development of necessary skills for success. Something prevents marginalized groups from reaching full potential; something is social stereotypes. Avoids labelling ppl w/trait like immutable abilities which for underperforming groups can only lead to frustration and dis- identification.
