Understanding African American Learners' Motivations to Learn in Church-Based Adult Education

Abstract

The adult education literature is clearly lacking as a source of knowledge about learning among African Americans. This study examined the motivations for learning among African American adults in three church-based adult education programs. A survey was developed to identify learners' motivations. A seven-factor structure was selected as the most conceptually meaningful in explaining their motivations. Four factors were identified that are consistent with findings of prior research, and three factors appear to contribute new insights into adults' motivations to learn. The African American church as a site for learning is discussed in light of these motivations.

The Black Church: Promoting Health, Fighting Disparities

“…Kotecki () states, “Community partnerships between health care and Faith‐Based Organizations are an effective way to reach people with health promotion strategies in the comfort of their member group” (p. 61). This supports the significance of providing learning opportunities in familiar cultural settings in particular where African Americans feel more comfortable (Isaac et al., ).…”

“…The chapter will conclude with a discussion of how adult educators can play a role in developing effective educational health programs that target the diverse needs and health concerns facing the Black community. For purposes of our discussion, a Black church is defined as one whose membership is predominately African American (Isaac, Guy, & Valentine, ).…”

The Methodological Underdog: A Review of Quantitative Research in the Key Adult Education Journals

“…goal-oriented, activity-oriented and content-oriented learners (Houle 1961). In the past 15 years, the scale has been used to discover the motivations of African American adult learners in church-based education (Isaac et al 2001). Boshier was also involved in a project measuring the motivation of adult learners in Shanghai, measured through his Education Participation Scale (Boshier et al 2006).…”

“When We Learn Better, We Do Better”

“…It has long been a solace from racial injustice, and it has provided strength and spiritual guidance to its members. It has assisted African Americans via a wide array of adult education activities in developing a greater appreciation for their culture and history, gaining basic literacy skills, acquiring trades, and keeping abreast of societal issues (Byrd; 1988; Isaac, Guy, & Valentine, 2001; Patillo-McCoy, 1998; Rachal, 1998). Throughout times of economic hardship and political activism, the African American church has developed into a structured community agency equipped to combat social ills.…”