Utilizing retrieval practice and narrative writing to reduce the achievement gap in high school anatomy physiology students

Abstract

The researcher utilized retrieval practice and anxiety reducing techniques prior to assessment in an attempt to improve performance and narrow the achievement gap between students of color and their peers. In order to answer the question of whether 'utilizing retrieval practice and narrative writing could reduce the achievement gap in high school anatomy physiology students', baseline anxiety surveys, pre and post-assessment interviews, performance on assessment content covered by retrieval practice were collected. Data were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively, with results which suggested that students performed better on content that received the retrieval practice treatment. Data was inconclusive regarding the result of narrative writing on anxiety.