No Role Models: Examining Black Male Teachers' Experience Through Social Emotional Learning

• In Event: Social and Emotional Learning and Educator Preparation

Abstract

This inquiry examined the unique experiences of African American male teachers regarding their own social and self-awareness while teaching Black male students. Narratives were written by eight African American male teachers. Black male teachers are underrepresented in the field of education in America. These Black male teachers provided personal stories of their teaching experiences through a Social Emotional Learning lens consisting of Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision Making. Using the thematic approach to analyze and interpret patterns of meaning expressed through narratives, unique, and similar themes were identified. Although their years of experience and degree levels varied, these African American male teachers had unique and similar experiences teaching Black males at their respective schools.

Authors

• Melanie A. Martin, Delgado Community College

• Roslin E. Growe, University of Louisiana at Lafayette