<p> African-American student achievement is a pervasive problem for school communities. This qualitative research explores the Black Church's role in the bicultural development of six African American male students. Using the critical theory of biculturalism this study seeks to determine what aspects of the Black Church experience influence the African American male's ability to navigate the school environment and participate in school. This dissertation study utilized the complementary methodologies, <i>testimonies</i> and witnessing, to document the students experiences in the school and church communities. Data analysis included holistic-content analysis. Findings indicate the Black Church was an effective vehicle for the empowering process of biculturation. Through it's critical teachings, cultural responsive care, and engaged pedagogy, the Black Church affirms the bicultural students and helps them contend with their personal experiences with oppressive individuals and structures. The findings support the need for the Black church to participate in education reform efforts affecting African-American students. The findings also support a renewed focus on engaging teachers in the utilization of culturally responsive care in their interactions with African-American students.</p>
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:PROQUEST/oai:pqdtoai.proquest.com:3621594 |
| Date | 13 August 2014 |
| Creators | Lucas, Brandi Odom |
| Publisher | Loyola Marymount University |
| Source Sets | ProQuest.com |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | thesis |
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