Teaching History in the Making: CTD's New AP® African American Studies Course

By Erin K. Johnson and Malaika Spencer, CTD Marketing and Communications

Last month, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Ashley Gibson, Course Designer and Instructor for the Center for Talent Development’s (CTD) newly launched AP® African American Studies course. A transformative school leader, Dr. Gibson champions equity and learner-centered access through innovative educational design, teacher education, and leadership. In our conversation, she shared
her vision for the course, her teaching philosophy, and the importance of making history relevant to the students of today.

Expanding Horizons Through AP African American Studies

What excites Dr. Gibson most about teaching AP African American Studies? For her, it’s the opportunity to provide a fuller, more nuanced view of American history. The course examines African American history within broader social, economic, and political contexts, offering students the tools to become scholars, thinkers, and researchers. “This course helps students appreciate the complexities and contributions of African Americans across all aspects of society, building empathy, understanding, and a sense of connectedness,” Dr. Gibson shared. By confronting often-overlooked narratives, students are challenged to think critically and develop a deeper appreciation for how these histories shape the nation today.

Empowering Future Leaders

While the College Board outlines specific learning outcomes, Dr. Gibson identifies critical thinking, independent inquiry, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives as the most valuable takeaways. “Beyond understanding history, I want students to feel empowered to question, research deeply, and communicate their ideas with clarity and purpose,” she explained. “The ultimate goal is for them to become proactive, compassionate leaders.” Her approach equips students with the analytical skills needed to address complex and sensitive issues, fostering resilience and a commitment to equity and social responsibility.

Learning Through Engagement

Dr. Gibson’s course emphasizes active participation through restorative discussion circles, Socratic seminars, and project-based learning. Students engage with diverse media, from music and literature to film and oral histories, creating personal connections to the material. “Students aren’t passive recipients of knowledge,” she said. “They conduct their own research, present findings, and contribute actively to the learning process.” Even in an online format, Dr. Gibson ensures that the experience remains dynamic and collaborative. Strategies like breakout sessions, asynchronous discussion boards, and multimedia resources foster a respectful and lively virtual community.

Navigating Sensitive Topics Thoughtfully

Dr. Gibson recognizes the challenges of addressing complex topics in African American history. To support students, she emphasizes restorative approaches and open discussions, creating a safe space for emotional expression and thoughtful analysis. “The curriculum encourages students to view sensitive issues through multiple lenses,” she explained. “This helps them build empathy and respect while developing their analytical skills.”

Staying Current in a Changing Field

As an educator and researcher, Dr. Gibson is committed to staying up to date with evolving perspectives. She incorporates insights from seminars, journal articles, and organizations like the African American Policy Forum into her teaching. “When I find something compelling, I integrate it into the curriculum,” she said. “I also encourage students to bring in their discoveries to foster a collaborative and responsive classroom.”

Resources to Explore Further

For students eager to delve deeper into African American studies, Dr. Gibson recommends essential texts like The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Du Bois and The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin. Pairing Baldwin with Ta-Nehisi Coates’ Between the World and Me provides a compelling bridge between past and present. She also highlights documentaries like Ava DuVernay’s 13th and Eyes on the Prize, as well as Audre Lorde’s Sister Outsider for those interested in Black feminist perspectives.

History in the Making

For Dr. Gibson, teaching this course is more than an academic endeavor—it’s a historic moment. “This course was born out of years of advocacy and the protests of 2020,” she reflected. “People have fought long and hard for this, and I’m honored to be part of bringing it to life. This is history in the making.” As students embark on this journey, they’ll not only learn about the past but also gain the tools to shape a more equitable future. For Dr. Gibson, AP African American Studies represents a transformative step forward in education. Dr. Gibson’s passion and expertise shine through in every aspect of the course, making it a powerful opportunity for students to engage with history, critical thinking, and leadership.

To learn more about the AP® Online Program, please visit our webpage.