Deficit Thinking and the African American Learner

• In Event: Roundtable Session 30
  In Roundtable Session: The African American Learner

Abstract

Deficit thinking is a widely used educational label targeted at African American students and their families. Deficit thinking occurs when educators believe that students and their families are largely responsible for setbacks encountered within the school setting. Deficit thinking has changed forms over time, but remains distinct from other forms of thinking because it places the blame for student failure on the students and their lack of the traits necessary for academic success (Cooper, 2006). This research focuses on the central meaning and effects of deficit thinking on African-American learners, describes the construct of deficit thinking, assists in the deconstruction of deficit thinking, and places emphasis back on what educators are doing to impact success for the African American Learner.

Author

• Rasheedah Farooq, Texas A&M University