Chapter 2: Hip-Hop Music in the Classroom: A Motivational Tool for African American Student Success in School?

This case study examined the effects of a hip-hop integrated classroom on the motivation of African American high school students. African American students from a public charter college preparatory high school in Washington, D.C. were observed as they participated in their hip-hop integrated digital arts classroom. Results supported the hypothesis that students were motivated to learn and succeed academically through their interest in hiphop. Findings reveal the significance of hip-hop integrated instruction as a culturally relevant teaching strategy that can be beneficial for the promotion of achievement motivation, learning, and academic success for African American adolescents. The use of hip-hop music as an academic concentration tool, as well as the significance of the theme of resiliency are also uncovered. Implications for education research, practice, and policy are presented.