First published 2014
Three prominent African American scholars tackle the complex factors behind Black student achievement in American schools. Theresa Perry examines the historical philosophy of education within African American communities, drawing from narratives by Frederick Douglass and Maya Angelou to reveal how racial dynamics create unique challenges for students. Claude Steele presents psychological research showing that students perform worse when they feel judged through racial stereotypes rather than as individuals. His concept of "stereotype threat" extends beyond race to affect women in mathematics and other groups facing negative assumptions. Asa Hilliard surveys successful schools and programs across the country where African American students thrive, identifying the specific practices that enable high achievement. The authors argue that understanding students' social identity as African Americans must be central to any discussion of educational outcomes. They reject deficit-based explanations and instead focus on practical solutions rooted in research and historical wisdom.
Genres: african-american, education, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic, social-commentary
Period: 19th-century, 20th-century, 21st-century
ebook · Beacon Press (MA)