Progressive education has been very challenging to adopt and reform within the framework of the current educational system. But in recent years the introduction of new and creative ways of education has been entering the classroom setting. The reading, Critical Hip Hop Pedagogy as a Form of Liberatory Praxis by A. Akom discusses how hip hop may help students confront and combat societal oppression and issues, and how this can be applied in the education system. Akom stated this idea allows children to “respond to issues of racism and other axes of social difference that Black people/people of color face in urban and suburban schools and communities,” In general, I believe that hip-hop is a form of self-expression, protest, and art, and it can be utilized to teach students how to participate and display their thoughts in society in a unique manner.
This idea of hip-hop culture allows students to develop a critical consciousness because it enables every student to be able to express their emotions, issues, and societal matters in a very powerful and moving way. Since hip hop can be experienced openly and engaged with, the critical analysis can go beyond the students and the classroom and would empower students to become activists and stand up for their values.
Hey Kelsey,
I completely agree with you when you say that hip-hop is a form of self-expression that allows students to display their thoughts in society in a unique way. I believe hip-hop is a great medium for students to express their emotions in a powerful way and in a way free from judgment. I also believe that hip-hop is a necessary tool to empower students to become involved in their own communities and society as a whole.
I like how you mentioned that hip-hop is not just a style of music but also a way of expression, protest and art, because what a lot of people tend to forget especially older generations that music itself is one of the best ways of expression and connection. Many people do not know how to express themselves in healthy ways and music whether they are just listening to it or creating, it is a healthy way they can use to get what they are feeling and make deeper connections to their peers. and the way you ended it was well throughout out too because it is a way that students can be activists and stand up for their values in a way that they are comfortable with.
Thank you for your insightful post! Thinking about hip-hop as a way to respond to racial issues is something I never thought of before. I haven’t read the article yet but you’ve definitely sparked my interest by bringing up that point! My wheels are turning now in regards to critical consciousness and helping students deal with emotional issues and self expression.
Great post!