Literacy, Learning, and Human Capital Development among Rural African American Grandmothers

ABSTRACT

The focus in this study was to understand the learning experiences of rural grandmothers caring for their grandchildren. Specific attention was given to the informal learning activities in which primary caregiving grandmothers engaged that contributed to their human capital development and how they used informal learning as a means of intergenerational learning, teaching, and interacting with the children in their care. Ten grandmothers were purposely selected and interviewed. Data analysis revealed two themes: (a) faith literacy: interpersonal and intergenerational learning and collaborating; and (b) school literacy: interpersonal and intergenerational learning and collaborating. I conclude with a discussion for research and practice.

KEYWORDS:

• Human capital development
• informal learning
• primary caregiver
• African American grandmothers
• rural communities

Notes

1. I use the terms Black and African American interchangeably.