Research and Report: An African Diaspora Exploration

Research and Report: An African Diaspora Exploration

Age Range: 8+

Class Time (EST): 12 PM

Class Days: Tuesdays 

Date Range of Class: Oct 8 - Dec 17

Instructor Name: Mwalimu Saarah

Instructor Email: [email protected]

Instructor cell phone: 217.722.2931

Class Description

This course offers an immersive journey into the world of research with a strong focus on African and African Diaspora histories, cultures, and contributions. Students will not only learn essential research skills but also explore, understand, and celebrate the rich and diverse narratives of Africa and the African Diaspora. Through engaging activities and projects, students will develop the ability to critically examine sources, pose thoughtful research questions, and present their findings in ways that honor the unique and significant perspectives of African and African Diaspora communities. The course integrates academic research with an exploration of Africa's cultural heritage, historical events, and the impact of the African Diaspora across the world. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper appreciation for the contributions of African and African Diaspora peoples and the skills to conduct research with cultural relevance and reemphasize pride in our African Heritage contributions.

Class Skills Development 

By the end of this course, students will be able to conduct research effectively while embracing an African-centered and culturally relevant perspective, recognizing the rich history, contributions, and narratives of Africa and the African Diaspora in their research and presentation activities.

Class Materials 

- Reading Materials: Age-appropriate books, articles, and resources related to African and - - - African Diaspora history, cultures, and contributions. - Access to local Library Resources. - Computer or Tablet with Internet Access - Research Tools and Software: Citation management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley, or RefWorks) for tracking and organizing sources. - Art Supplies for creating visual aids for presentation: ie posters, markers, colored pencils, and drawing paper. - Notebooks and Writing Materials: for taking research notes, brainstorming, and jotting down ideas.

Class Norms 

-Respect for ourselves and others. -Willingness to be challenged, make mistakes, learn, and GROW. -Have FUN.

About the Instructor 

Saarah Na'Allah is a proud Black/African-centered elementary educator and consultant with 5 years of experience serving in both Peoria Public Schools and Chicago Public Schools and today serving students nationwide + internationally with her e-learning platform, Mwalimu Saarah's Learning Lab. She received her B.S. in Neuroscience from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and an M.A. in Teaching + Elementary Education from the University of Chicago, Urban Teacher Education Program. As an educator, Sarah recognizes the importance of instruction that is both rigorous and relevant. Our children deserve encounters that speak to their curiosity, intelligence, and cultural wealth. Saarah does not teach about the world as it is. Her commitment is to teach the world as it should be. Her ultimate goal is for students to recognize that what they learn is not meant to sit in their minds, but rather, be applied to the uplifting and building of their communities. Where does the name 'Mwalimu' come from? Saarah wears the title Mwalimu一 meaning teacher, according to the Kiswahili language a tribute to her African heritage. By entering spaces like Mwalimu Saarah, she hopes to inspire her students to enter the world just as culturally empowered as they are academically fulfilled. In her free time, Saarah loves to cook new recipes and start DIY projects for interior renovation and design. On the weekends, Saarah and her husband go bike riding and explore the attractions of their city. Saarah's goal is to learn how to sew her own skirts, dresses, and baby clothes for her son Musa.