Analyzing Student Achievement Gaps
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College Readiness: Student Achievement Gaps on ACT
Author: Hayley Deas
Secondary students have been falling behind academically over the past few years. This can be seen on national standardized student achievement exams such as the ACT. The ACT, or American College Test, is designed to examine how prepared a student is to enter college and take undergraduate courses. The score a student receives reflects their college readiness in four content areas which are: English, Reading, Math, and Science.
As a secondary educator who is obtaining a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, I was able to identify achievement gaps among graduating seniors at my school while completing an action-based research project. During my research I had the opportunity to compare the average ACT scores of graduating seniors at my school to the state and national ACT averages. After analyzing each average, I saw a need for change at my school to improve ACT scores. This led me to gather evidence-based practices to formulate my own action plan.
The action plan I created was centered around student data and evidence-based research practices. While completing my research I found that offering students test preparatory courses helps to improve ACT scores. My school currently offers ACT prep courses, but the students are not motivated to perform well in these courses. That said, I had to add some aspects to my action plan centered around increasing intrinsic motivation among students. Presenting students with reward systems also helps to motivate students to perform well. At my school, students are rewarded with dress down days. They are able to wear approved apparel instead of their uniforms. We have found this method of motivation to spread awareness about the importance of performing well on the ACT.
Moving forward I plan to continue to analyze the ACT scores of the students at my school and track their progress. Ideally, I plan to analyze student ACT scores beginning in their sophomore year and track their progress until they reach graduation. This early intervention strategy will help to increase and maximize student success and catch student achievement gaps early. Each student will also have specific test goals set for them based upon their current score. The ACT prep course instructors will help to guide these students in reaching the level of performance they are capable of.
Overall, action-based research has helped me to grow in my career as an educator. Analyzing data and identifying areas of improvement helps any professional grow. While completing my Master’s I have found that there are always opportunities to grow and continuously improve professional skills.
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