Representing Racial Identity: Identity, Race, the Construction of the African American STEM Students
Abstract
The challenge of opening the doors to science has been a topic of debate for many years. This content analysis study documented an urban school’s attempt to use representational practices to promote positive science identities for African American boys. Our analysis revealed how the school attempted to offer connections between ethnic identity and achievement ideology through representational practices. Whether it was posting the names of famous African American male scientists or promoting attendance to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the school used postings, displays, and interior pictures to communicate a positive science identity. The study highlights the need to promote non-stereotypical science identities for students.
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Biographies
Bryan A. Brown is an associate professor of science education at Stanford University’s graduate school of Education. He studies teaching and learning practices in diverse schools.
Charmaine Mangram is assistant professor at the University of Hawaii. She studies mathematics education and her professional focus is helping families better understand how to prepare their students for success in mathematics education.
Kathy Sun is assistant professor at Santa Clara University. She is a mathematics education researcher who focuses on how students can use their own ideas to maximize their mathematics learning. Her work examines how math teachers impact students’ ideas as STEM thinkers.
Keith Cross is an educational psychologist who explores how to use hip-hop culture and lyricism to understanding students’ thinking. His research explores how students neurological functioning is different when freestyle rapping.
Erin Raab explores how school design and focus impacts the lives of young people. Her research examines how the purpose of school can be redefined to maximize the impact schools can have on students.
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Article first published online: September 22, 2016
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