Reflecting on reading culture on campus, I would identify the following as the five major barriers facing Black men readers.
A lack of engaging conversations around reading. This is a problem because Black men readers can’t convey their thoughts and opinions in spaces where their testimony isn’t valued or actively sought out.
An absence of available time. Not having enough time to engage in reading outside of assigned coursework prevents many Black men readers from doing more reading for recreational purposes.
Choosing majors too quickly. The problem of Black men identifying their primary area of study prematurely reflects in their reading habits. As coursework was identified for what they read the most, this stands as a problem for many readers as not finding interest in their major led to them reading less.
Lack of models. Without more Black representation within the classroom and educational spaces Black men will continue to be at the mercy of these institutions and how they identify what literature Black men are interested in and how they will engage with that reading.
Absence of spaces to read. Limited spaces that encourage learning and studying but not reading specifically serves as a barrier. SIUE offers a ton of dynamic spaces that foster an environment for studying (think of the study rooms in the Student Success Center), but none of these spaces include any reading materials or amenities that would encourage reading.
Related:
No comments:
Post a Comment