Examining the Nuances of Teaching Mathematics While Black: Achieving New Possibilities for the Public Good

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium examines the complex intersections of race, mathematics and teacher education, and professional practice with a specific focus on Black mathematics teachers. Paper 1 presents a synthesis of nationally-representative quantitative data on Black mathematics teachers and their attitudes, beliefs, and school-based experiences. Paper 2 explores influence of mathematics identity and experiences on Black teachers’ practices. Paper 3 explores the professional preparation and experiences of Black male mathematics teachers. Paper 4 examines the trajectories of U.S. Black mathematics teachers that pinpoints issues related to Black teacher attrition that have been intractable across time periods and schooling contexts.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Research Focus on Black Education

Chair

• Christopher C. Jett, University of West Georgia

Papers

• A Synthesis of National Data on Black Secondary Mathematics Teachers - Nathan Alexander, Morehouse College; Charles Wilkes II, University of Michigan; Robert Q. Berry, University of Virginia

• The Influence of Mathematics Identity and Experiences on Black Teachers' Practice - Elzena McVicar, University of Washington - Seattle

• Exploring Black Male Mathematics Teachers' Professional Preparation and Experiences for the Public Good - Julius Davis, Bowie State University

• The Trajectories of Black Mathematics Teachers and Their Arc of Resistance - Toya Jones Frank, George Mason University

Discussant

• Lawrence M. Clark, University of Maryland