The College Board has released an updated framework for its Advanced Placement (AP) course in African American Studies, which covers Black history through an interdisciplinary lens. The course has been popular among students, but has faced criticism from conservatives. The new framework largely preserves the current topics while expanding on others, and offers teachers options on subject matter that has drawn scrutiny. The course aims to provide a transformative experience for students, prompting conversations between parents and students. It covers a wide range of topics, including ancient civilizations, the TransAtlantic slave trade, the Civil War, the Civil Rights movement, and contemporary issues such as Black Lives Matter. Despite facing opposition in some states, the course has seen high enrollment and has the potential to build a pipeline for students to pursue further education.
The Advanced Placement (AP) African American studies course has added a lesson on sports and racial justice, including the story of Colin Kaepernick's decision to kneel during the national anthem as a protest against racial oppression and police brutality. The course plan, which had faced controversy and revisions, now includes terms and concepts such as "systemic" and "intersectionality" that had previously been minimized or omitted. The course, currently in a trial phase, is set to launch nationwide next fall and aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of African American history, culture, and experiences.
The College Board has announced that it will revise its controversial Advanced Placement course in African American studies, which has faced criticism from both the left and the right. The course has been accused of promoting a political agenda and lacking educational value. The College Board has not specified what changes will be made, but has pledged to ensure that all students have access to the full breadth and beauty of the discipline. The course is currently being taught in about 60 high schools and is expected to launch nationwide in fall 2024.
