What does the term 'achievement gap' refer to?

The term "achievement gap" specifically refers to the disparity in academic performance between different groups of students. This can encompass various dimensions, including differences in standardized test scores, grades, and overall educational outcomes. Typically, the achievement gap is examined between demographic groups defined by socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity, and it highlights inequalities in educational achievement that may arise from a variety of factors such as access to resources, quality of instruction, and support outside of school.

When discussing educational equity, understanding the achievement gap is crucial because it informs policy decisions and interventions aimed at improving educational opportunities and outcomes for underrepresented or disadvantaged students. While the other concepts mentioned—resources, attendance rates, and parental involvement—may impact academic performance, they are not synonymous with the term "achievement gap," which is specifically focused on measuring and addressing differences in educational outcomes.