Small scale research project proposal

Provisional Title: How a relational pedagogical process promotes engagement and a more inclusive learning experience for students of color (Black & Latino) in grades 6-8

Need for the Project

This research is designed to investigate and highlight the most essential connections and patterns between a “traditional teaching process'' and a “relational teaching process” through the lens of engagement and inclusion in 6th, 7th and 8th grade classroom instruction. This project will focus on the influences dialog and relational processes have in improving engagement and inclusion in classroom instruction specifically and distinctly for black and latino students. I am hypothesizing that there is a greater need for a distinct relational process approach for black and latino students in grades 6, 7 and 8 in order for instruction to connect for this population of students and improve these students' experiences and outcomes. My hope is this small scale project will help identify and assess existing teaching methods and approaches that successfully promote increased engagement and inclusivity for black and latino students.

I am proposing a small scale research project that investigates existing teaching and learning and how engagement and inclusivity could be utilized by classroom teachers when teaching black and latino students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades