What is the term for the disparity in academic performance between groups of students?

The term that accurately describes the disparity in academic performance between groups of students is the Achievement Gap. This concept specifically refers to the observed differences in educational performance and outcomes, particularly among various demographic groups defined by factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity.

The Achievement Gap highlights the inequalities in educational achievement and serves as a focal point for educators, policymakers, and researchers who aim to address and reduce these disparities. By identifying and analyzing these gaps, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions and resources to support underperforming groups, ensuring a more equitable educational experience for all students.

Other terms, while relevant to educational concepts, do not encapsulate this specific issue effectively. For instance, the Equity Gap may suggest differences in access to resources or opportunities, and the Knowledge Divide could imply a broader disparity in information or skills not strictly tied to academic performance. Performance Disparity could be considered a more general term and less academically recognized within this context. Thus, the Achievement Gap is the most precise and widely used term to describe this phenomenon in education.