Harriet Tubman: The Hidden Naturalist – Empowering Black Girls through Representation by Bridging Science and History with Children's Literature

• In Event: Protection After 16 Carriages: Curating Safety in and With Research for and by Black Girls

Abstract

Purpose
This project integrates children's literature to create meaningful connections between science, literacy, and history for Black students. By focusing on the lesser-known naturalist aspects of Harriet Tubman's life, the project leverages her story as a motivational tool to enhance student engagement in history and science education. Tubman’s skills, character traits, and abilities not only helped Freedom Seekers shape history but also inspire current and future generations. She used her knowledge of the natural world to navigate and survive in the wilderness, showcasing her as a "Hidden Naturalist." This project challenged fourth graders to create pathways toward justice using the written word and artistic expression, confronting our shared past and present to work toward a more equitable future. Designed to emphasize storytelling, writing techniques, and natural sciences, this project aims to create a holistic learning experience for Black elementary students (Nxumalo & Cedillo, 2017).
This project emerged to focus on elementary children, recognizing the need to engage younger students through innovative and culturally responsive methods. By integrating children's literature, the project establishes meaningful connections between science, literacy, and history for Black students. Highlighting Harriet Tubman's naturalist skills, the project leverages her story to enhance student engagement in history and science education. This interdisciplinary approach aims to create a holistic learning experience for Black elementary students. Harriet Tubman’s naturalist skills, character traits, and abilities allowed her to help other Freedom Seekers shape history, inspire radical change, and influence current and future generations. This project challenged 80 fourth graders to create pathways toward justice using the written word and artistic expression, confronting our shared past and present for a more equitable future.
Theoretical Framework & Methods
Black Liberatory K-12 Science Education (BLKSE) guided this research (Authors, 2022a; Authors, 2022b). The BLKSE framework, developed to enhance and appreciate Black student engagement, emphasizes recognizing and nurturing Black students' brilliance within STEM education, integrating Black perspectives and histories, and fostering inclusive learning environments (Authors, 2022a). By prioritizing inclusivity and removing barriers to learning, educators can create classrooms where all students can thrive and excel (Brown et al., 2017).

Findings and Discussion
By integrating children's literature and highlighting Harriet Tubman as a naturalist, this project creates meaningful connections between science, literacy, and history for Black girls to have representation. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a deeper understanding of historical figures and cultivates a passion for scientific exploration among Black elementary girls, empowering them to embrace their full possibilities honoring their heritage and potential.
Representation is critical for Black girls as it provides them with role models who reflect their own identities. Seeing Harriet Tubman portrayed as a naturalist not only enriches their understanding of history but also validates their presence and potential in scientific fields. Accurate representation ensures that Black girls see themselves in the narratives of the past and the possibilities of the future, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation to pursue their interests and dreams. The authors will share resources for educators and researchers to incorporate in their work, further promoting an inclusive and engaging educational experience.

Authors

• Monica L. Miles, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Whitney N. McCoy, Duke University