Community Family Literacy Groups to Uplift Urban African American Families' Home Literacy Practices

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Fourteen
  In Roundtable Session: Bridging Education, Community, and Political Engagement: Collaborations Endeavored Toward Praxis (Table 19)

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examined the home literacy practices of urban African-American families. Using surveys and focus groups informed by the community literacy model, we found a complex use of practices. Families were not solely engaging in practices that aligned with school-based or White middle-class norms but, rather, engaged in dual practices for survival and disruption. We found an extension of functional and social literacy practices, to affirm Black identity, culture, and history and to acknowledge the influence of faith-based communities. These findings extend the understanding of home literacy practices of urban African-American families and suggest ways to engage families.

Authors

• Emily Caylor, Tuscola Intermediate School District
  Presenting Author

• Amanda Wowra, Oakland University
  Presenting Author

• Ashelin R. Currie, Oakland Schools
  Non-Presenting Author

• Yong Zeng, Oakland University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Iman Bakhoda, Oakland University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Tanya M. Christ, Oakland University
  Non-Presenting Author