African Immigrants' Experiences in American Schools

Complicating the Race Discourse

By (author) Shirley Mthethwa-Sommers, Immaculee Harushimana

Publication date:

12 October 2016

Length of book:

146 pages

Publisher

Lexington Books

Dimensions:

237x159mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781498510714

As the number of African-born students in American schools increases, it is important that schools enlarge the circle of diversity to include African-born students who are rendered invisible by their skin color and continent of origin.. African Immigrants’ Experiences in American Schools: Complicating the Race Discourse is aimed at filling the gap in the literature about African-born students in American schools. This book will not only assist teachers and administrators in understanding the nuanced cultural, sociological, and socio-cognitive differences between American-born and African-born students; it will also equip them with effective interpersonal teaching strategies adapted to the distinct needs of African-born students and others like them. The book explores in depth salient African-rooted factors that come into play in the social and academic integration of African immigrant students, such as gender, spirituality, colonization, religious affiliation, etc. The authors examine American-rooted factors that complicate the adaptation of these students in the US educational school system, such as institutional racism, Afrophobia, Islamophobia, cultural discontinuities, curricular mismatches, and western media mis-portrayals. They also proffer pedagogical tools and frameworks that may help minimize these deleterious factors.
Yes, this myth-dispelling call-to-action belongs in the lap of every teacher of African-born students. But its pervasive Ubuntu philosophy, comprehensive illumination of the multiple dimensions of the African immigrant experience, and prescriptions for best practice in instruction will inspire and guide all educators. Theoretically and practical in equal measure, it lays the foundation for a richer, more diverse, and therefore stronger democracy in America. I know that I will be quoting it and stealing ideas from it in my work. Using proverbs to help students grasp science concepts? Priceless!