Hiphop Culture and Education

Hiphop has often been blamed for all things wrong with youth culture in general and Black youth in particular. This view is not really new as many have said the same of other forms of Black expressive culture before and since Hiphop burst on the scence.

However as the debate has continued there have been many community activists, educators, hiphop heads, and parents who recognize the potential Hiphop culture offers in terms of education. Both in formal settings, such as a classroom or school and informal settings in the home or within various communities.  Educators have specifically taught about Hiphop culture or using it as a 'hook' or bridge to other areas of learning.

Because of the connection with students lives, interests and community Hiphop culture is a likely bridge. Much of the current discussion is moving toward who should be teaching Hiphop?  Those trained as Hiphopscholars, Hiphop heads with expertise in one of the core elements (i.e b-girls/boys, emcees, dj/producers, etc.)

Many suggest those who teach hiphop need to have done or do Hiphop.  Much like other expressive cultural forms it is difficult to teach without direct participation in the culture, and watching 8 Mile and listening to a few CDs wont qualify. 

Check out Poor Righteous Teachers emcee and radio show host of The Here After, Wise Intelligent, and dynamic Def Poet Narubi Selah, with guest Garvey School Founder Baye KMT (link below).

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