This study investigated the relationship between racial identity attitudes and academic achievement among 26 urban African American high school students. Results suggest that academic achievement may be related to racial identity attitudes. Educational implications are discussed. (SLD)

This study of six young urban African American men, all in grades 10 or 11 at the time of the study, examined their experiences and the meanings they constructed of the high school diploma, their experiences in classrooms, and their relationships with family members and peers. The perspectives of these young men point to the importance of…

Urban African American elementary school students (n=128) were asked to compare the memorization of noncontroversial information with the learning and discussion of information designed to help students develop personal stances on controversial matters. Older students, more than younger students, saw collaborative inquiry as fair and likely to…

Through a Chicago Public School Program fifth-grade students from different cultures and backgrounds were brought together to experience and learn about a forest environment. These urban students (N=269) completed a brief questionnaire about their previous experiences, perceptions, and expectations regarding forest resources. Findings indicate…

Explores the causal nature of the association between grade repetition and later adolescent problem behaviors for 197 retained and 204 promoted African-American sixth and seventh graders in two urban middle schools. Regression analyses imply that retention reduced rebellious behavior in school and increased attachment to school. (SLD)

Assesses the self-concept and school attitudes of a sample of Black ninth graders at two urban schools. Reports that, while the percentage of Black youth with low self-concept may be lower now than in previous years, there are still many who lack a positive self-image. (KH)

Analyzes the responses of 1,344 African-American and 580 white female adolescents, and 852 African-American and 520 white male adolescents to questions regarding their perceived ideal ages for marriage and first birth. Findings reveal differences between white and African-American adolescents' responses. Comparisons suggest that the adolescents'…

The motivation to learn of African American high school students was examined by asking them about their favorite and least favorite classes. Two hundred and seventy-five students attending three urban high schools were randomly selected from their history classes to respond to a questionnaire on their perceptions of ability, goals, and reasons…

Interviewed 38 inner-city Black and Latino adolescents in a precollege tutorial program. Findings show students' difficulties in leaving their old peer groups and embracing the idea that they could achieve in school. Addresses implications of the findings for policy, assets, and problems. (SLD)

The Student Assistance to Further Education (SAFE) Alternative School was designed to provide academic and support services to eligible Houston Independent School District (HISD) (Texas) elementary school students at risk of expulsion. Students are referred to the school by school staff at participating schools or their parents. The program, which…

Examined group differences in the academic achievement beliefs of African American adolescents with 102 junior high school students involved in an academic enrichment program. Boys had higher beliefs about their abilities and expectations in mathematics and science. Differences in beliefs about effort for high and low achievers of both sexes are…

Case studies of two urban adolescents interviewed over 3 years of high school show the complexities of life in the city for minority students and demonstrate the importance of supportive relationships in their lives. The chapters are: (1) "Interpreting Narratives"; (2) "A Study of Urban Youth"; (3) "Malcolm's Story"; (4) "Voice and Silence"; (5)…

This paper suggests that space and spatiality are major features of racial identity and the formation of student resistance. It brings together critical studies of "Whiteness," human territoriality, and theories of resistance in education. The problems between white teachers and students of color can be understood better through a combination of…

The research reported in this paper has three major purposes: to assess the development of racial attitudes in urban children, to evaluate the effects of race of examiner on children's expressed attitudes, and to examine some of the perceptual correlates of racial attitudes. It was predicted that older children would perceive faces of another race…

The purpose of this report is to provide an initial set of indicators for the success of African American students in the Albuquerque, New Mexico, Public Schools (APS). The major data gathering activity was a survey of parents and students completed by 244 students and 251 parents. Parents and students presented a relatively positive picture of…