Black Representation in the Curriculum: Conversations on Teaching, Culture, Equity, and Belonging

This episode features Dr. Carolivia Herron’s Epic City Live Radio Show recording in which I, Dr. Catherine Quinlan was a guest. In this engaging conversation, Professor Catherine Quinlan discusses her journey as an author of children's literature, focusing on the importance of representation and heritage in education. She shares insights from her Keystone Passage series, which aims to connect young readers with their African heritage through imaginative storytelling. The discussion also touches on the significance of addressing themes of belonging and shame in children's narratives, as well as the role of science education in fostering a deeper understanding of cultural identity.

Dr. Catherine Quinlan is the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair in Teacher Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, School of Education at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), Durham, NC.

You can find out more about Dr. Quinlan's Keystone Passage series on ⁠Keystone Passage.com⁠, Available everywhere books are ⁠sold⁠.

Epic City with Professor Carolivia Herron airs on Takoma Park Radio on Tuesdays 4pm-5pm. https://takomaradio.org/

Carolivia Herron is author of several books including:

Nappy Hair

Thereafter Johnnie

Always an Olivia: A Remarkable Family History (Jewish Identity)

Little Georgia and the Apples: Aunt Georgia's First Catalpa Tale

Peacesong DC: A Jewish Africana Academic Epic Tale of Washington City

Asenath and the Origin of Nappy Hair: Being a Collection fo tales Gathered and Extracted from the Epic Stanzas of Asenath and Our Song of Songs

Available Everywhere books are sold.

In this conversation, Dr. GiShawn Mance discusses the complexities of trauma, coping mechanisms, and the importance of community in healing. She emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the role of individual therapy in understanding personal triggers. The discussion also highlights various resources available for mental health support, particularly for the Black community, and the significance of collective healing in overcoming trauma.

About Dr. GiShawn Mance, PhD:

Dr. GiShawn Mance is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Howard University and a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Her scholarly work focuses on culturally and contextually relevant trauma-focused mental health interventions, community-based participatory research, and adolescent and emerging adult mental health.

Stay Tuned For The Link to The Resources

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

In this conversation, host Dr. Catherine Quinlan and special guest Dr. GiShawn Mance explore the intricate relationship between mental health, trauma, and community. They discuss the various forms of trauma, including systemic issues related to race and poverty, and how these experiences impact individuals differently. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, the role of vulnerability in healing, and the necessity of community support in navigating mental health challenges. They also touch on coping strategies and the need for open conversations about mental health, particularly among marginalized groups.

About Dr. GiShawn Mance

Dr. GiShawn Mance is an associate professor of psychology at Howard University and a licensed clinical psychologist. Her scholarly work focuses on culturally and contextually relevant trauma-focused mental health interventions, community-based participatory research, and adolescent and emerging adult mental health.

You are welcome to submit your questions and interests in advance using this submission form.

Please join us for part II next Monday 11AM as we discuss coping and the community. Please feel free to submit your questions or comments ahead of time using this link.

Preferably you may add your comments below and use the link to indicate which platform you added your comment or question for the next LIVE session.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

In this episode, Dr. Catherine Quinlan delves into the significance of mental health, sharing her personal journey and insights. She discusses the importance of understanding mental health, coping mechanisms, and the role of boundaries in maintaining well-being. The conversation also touches on societal impacts, the connection between mental health and personal experiences, and the importance of recognizing oneself. Catherine emphasizes the need for open discussions about mental health, especially concerning children, and expresses her commitment to addressing these topics in her work.

Dr. Quinlan is author of recent book Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development

You can find a more complete list of her work on her website www.visibilityinstem.com and on https://linktr.ee/catherinequinlan

In this conversation, I, Dr. Catherine Quinlan, delve into the concepts of courage and cowardice, exploring their implications in personal and societal contexts. I reflect on my experiences and the emotional challenges of sharing my work publicly, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and the impact of fear on decision-making. Through my insights, I encourages listeners to confront their fears and embrace courage in their lives.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

In this conversation, Mr. Gareth Murray shares his lifelong passion for roller coasters and how it led him to a career in mechanical engineering. He discusses the challenges he faced in college, the importance of time management, and the skills necessary for success in engineering. Mr. Murray also reflects on his experiences working on projects for Universal Studios, emphasizing the significance of problem-solving and creativity in engineering. He offers valuable advice for aspiring engineers, particularly regarding perseverance and the importance of smaller companies for gaining experience.

About Gareth Murray

Mr. Gareth Murray teaches Roller Coaster Engineering for Kids on Outschool.com. Coming from a family of educators going back over 100 years, he combines this legacy with his engineering background to show students how thrilling and accessible engineering can be. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State, his early career took him to Universal Studios, where he helped design the iconic Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster using Linear Induction Motor technology. With over 20 years of teaching experience across private schools, community centers, and international settings, Gareth brings his expertise and enthusiasm for roller coasters to every lesson.

Links:

Outschool Teacher Page: Outschool.com/teachers/Gareth-Murray

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

This conversation explores the multifaceted relationship between hair, identity, and societal expectations. The guests, Drs. Heather Lavender, Rasheda Likely, and TaVshea Smith share their personal hair journeys, discussing the cultural significance of hair, the challenges of navigating societal perceptions, and the importance of self-acceptance. They emphasize the need for community and connection through shared experiences related to hair, while also addressing the economic aspects of hair care products and the impact of hair on professional opportunities. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the journey of self-discovery and the importance of embracing one's natural hair as a reflection of identity. This conversation delves into the complex relationship between hair, identity, and societal perceptions, particularly focusing on the experiences of Black women. The speakers discuss the impact of hair on confidence, the importance of embracing natural textures, and the significance of the Crown Act in combating discrimination. They also explore the economic influences on hair care products, the need for education on identity, and the role of representation in media and education. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting personal boundaries regarding hair, as well as the curiosity that often drives interactions about hair.

About the guests:

Dr. Heather Lavender is an Assistant Professor of Science Education at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY. With her foundational roots to microbiology, she is the most passionate and a fierce advocate for girls and women's journey towards STEM careers. She does not see these populations as an untapped resource to fulfill a place in STEM but views their necessity in STEM and to equitable access as simply the right and just thing to do.

Dr. Rasheda Likely serves as an Assistant Professor of Science Education in Elementary and Early Childhood Education at Kennesaw State University. She earned both her Bachelors and Masters of Science in Biology from the University of North Florida and her doctorate in STEM Education from Drexel University. Dr. Likely enjoys reimagining learning experiences that reflect and center the brilliance of minoritized students.

Dr. TaVshea Smith is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education with over a decade of experience in the field. Dr. Smith is dedicated to promoting effective educational practices in diverse learning environments. Her research and advocacy focus on achieving educational equity for all students, with a particular emphasis on early childhood education, early literacy development, and supporting novice educators. Dr. Smith is passionate about working with pre-service teachers and preparing them for successful teaching careers. Her commitment is further demonstrated through her mentorship and various leadership roles within professional organizations.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Rashida Likely shares her journey from a scientist to an educator, focusing on the importance of hair care education for Black girls. She discusses the lack of representation in science curricula and the significance of DIY hair care as a means of teaching scientific principles. The conversation highlights the dangers of chemical hair treatments, the importance of community and family in hair care practices, and the need for decolonizing science education to better serve marginalized communities. Dr. Likely emphasizes the value of hands-on learning and the impact of representation in fostering a sense of identity and belonging among students.

About Dr. Rasheda Likely.

Dr. Rasheda Likely serves as an Assistant Professor of Science Education in Elementary and Early Childhood Education at Kennesaw State University. She earned both her Bachelors and Masters of Science in Biology from the University of North Florida and her doctorate in STEM Education from Drexel University. Dr. Likely enjoys reimagining learning experiences that reflect and center the brilliance of minoritized students.

She wrote a book chapter about the development of her Lotions and Potions curriculum. Here is the citation: Likely, R. (2024). Informed by the Intersections. Antiracist Research on K-12 Education and Teacher Preparation: Policy Making, Pedagogy, Curriculum, and Practices, 167-186.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

In this conversation, Dr. Catherine Quinlan discusses the importance of heritage and cultural representation, particularly focusing on African rock art and its connection to heritage, identity, and science. She emphasizes the need for cultural representation in education and shares insights on how to implement African rock art analysis in the classroom. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and appreciating Black heritage and the contributions of indigenous cultures to art and science. This conversation occasionally includes a presenter and panelist who were a part of the portions of the conversation. This conversation was initially presented as an interactive webinar with slides which are omitted here. The works referred to are included below for your reference and insights.

Paper:

Link to website with handouts and images from African Rock Art Image Analysis curriculum

https://www.visibilityinstem.com/africanrockartimageanalysis/

Free download of article titled: "Emergent themes and pragmatic research methods for meaningful cultural representation of Blacks in multimedia products for the science classroom"

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09500693.2021.1959959

An Interdisciplinary Investigation of African Rock Art Images to Learn about Science & Culture: Blending Biology, Geology, History & Ethics

https://doi.org/10.1525/abt.2019.81.1.40

Select this link for Free download of this article

Video clips on African Rock Art Image Analysis can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/@visibilityinstem

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

This conversation explores the significance of Black representation in the STEAM curriculum, emphasizing the importance of cultural narratives, community engagement, and the role of education in shaping identity. Dr. Catherine Quinlan and her guests discuss the Gullah/Geechee heritage, the impact of historical narratives on education, and the necessity of including diverse perspectives in the curriculum. They highlight the importance of storytelling, the intersection of gender roles, and the need for ongoing dialogue about representation in education.

Panel Guests include Mr. Gregory Grant who is Curator and Historian at Geechee Kunda Cultural Center and Museum, Ms. Jana De Voe Biggins, a local historian and entrepreneur, and Ms. Dominiqiue Werthing who is an elementary school teacher.

To learn more about each participant and the event itself, please visit my website and click on the event at the bottom of the page, to view their full biographies:https://www.visibilityinstem.com/. The “View agenda here” will provide you with the complete agenda and presenters biographies for this past event. However, only selected recordings will be made available.

Geechee Kunda Cultural Arts Center and Museum:https://www.geecheekunda.org/

The video clips can be found on my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@visibilityinstem/videos

Jana DeVoe Mason

Coming Soon: Look out for:

I Follow Up Always -www.Ifollowupalways.com

Jana DeVoe is a woman of many talents, driven by her faith and passion for helping others thrive in their spiritual journey and personal growth. As aHistoric Tour Guide, Psalmist,Author,Follow-Up Coach,andPodcaster.Jana’s mission is to inspire, empower, and encourage people to live out their God-given potential. Her voice carries healing and hope, her words offer wisdom, and her guidance leads people toward clarity in their walk with God.

COMMENTS - QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:

What does representation mean to you?

What did you find surprising?

What questions do you have?

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com