Handbook For Educational Terminology

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1. *Achievement Gap*:

   The disparity in academic performance between groups of students, often defined by socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, and gender. This gap can be measured through standardized test scores, graduation rates, and other educational benchmarks.

2. *Active Learning*:

   A teaching method that engages students in the learning process directly through activities and/or discussion in class, as opposed to passively listening to an expert. It often involves group work, problem-solving, and hands-on activities.

3. *Adaptive Learning*:

   An educational method that uses technology and data to adjust the learning experience to the individual needs of each student. The system provides personalized resources and activities based on the learner's performance.

4. *Andragogy*:

   The method and practice of teaching adult learners, with an emphasis on the learner's experience and the practical application of knowledge. It contrasts with pedagogy, which is focused on teaching children.

5. *Assessment*:

   The process of evaluating a student's performance through various methods such as tests, quizzes, observations, and projects. Assessments can be formative (ongoing, to inform instruction) or summative (end of a period, to evaluate learning).

6. *Authentic Assessment*:

   A form of assessment in which students are asked to perform real-world tasks that demonstrate meaningful application of essential knowledge and skills. This contrasts with traditional tests that may focus more on rote memorization.

7. *Autodidact*:

   A self-taught person who acquires knowledge and skills through their own efforts, without formal instruction or attendance in a classroom setting. Autodidacts often utilize books, online resources, and experiential learning.

8. *Auxiliary Services*:

   Support services provided by schools to help ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed. These may include health services, counseling, transportation, and meal programs.

9. *Asynchronous Learning*:

   A learning environment where instruction and learning do not occur in the same place or at the same time. Examples include online courses where students can access materials and complete work on their own schedule.

10. *Accreditation*:

   A process by which educational institutions or programs are evaluated and recognized as meeting certain predetermined standards. Accreditation ensures that schools provide quality education and are capable of achieving their stated objectives.