The black students performed worse, the theory goes, because of enhanced pressures created by stereotypes that black students don't measure up to whites intellectually, creating a performance anxiety that affected their concentration. At the time, the effort was widely derided across the country as a wacky California fad. Other proven methods for improving school performance should also be put to the test in Los Angeles, such as adopting more rigorous, standardized curricula and adding more college-prep courses. With a new superintendent and a new president, the only thing certain is that reform is going to happen. It's not all about vouchers and merit pay and federal grants.
Psychology plays a big role as well.
2000 CBJ, L.P. in association with The Gale Group and LookSmart.