Exploring Changing Perspectives: An Analysis of Students' Evolving Understanding of Racism

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Forward to the Future: Research and Transformative Critical Content (Table 14)

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the evolution of students' understanding of racism over two months in a school year and over one school year, focusing on the impact of culturally responsive teaching practices and texts. The research draws on Dr. Gholdy Muhammad's Historically Responsive Literacy Framework to deepen understanding of how specific culturally and historically responsive teaching practices and texts influence students' perceptions of racism and their lived experiences. Data from student writing prompts and reflective journal entries were analyzed to uncover the evolution of students' perspectives. The findings highlight the value of diverse texts and lived experiences in enhancing students' understanding of societal injustices. This study contributes valuable insights for educators and curriculum development to support students' critical thinking about racism.

Author

• Kevin Cataldo, Newark Board of Education/Montclair State University