US high school students lose ground in math and reading, continuing decline
a day ago
- #education
- #NAEP
- #student performance
- High schoolers' reading and math performance has declined to the lowest levels in over 20 years, continuing a decade-long trend.
- Eighth-grade students also showed significant losses in science skills, according to the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP).
- The pandemic exacerbated existing educational challenges, but experts note the decline predates COVID-19, with factors like increased screen time and reduced reading stamina contributing.
- Reading instruction has shifted toward shorter texts, with fewer books assigned annually, impacting students' ability to engage with complex material.
- Fewer students are reaching 'basic' proficiency in math and reading, with widening achievement gaps between high- and low-performing students.
- The gender gap in STEM subjects has re-emerged post-pandemic, with girls experiencing steeper declines in science and math scores.
- Inquiry-based learning activities in classrooms have decreased, affecting students' understanding of scientific concepts.
- Education leaders emphasize the need for urgent action to address these declines and prepare students for future demands.