Walsh said he is especially passionate about teaching Introduction to African American studies because it serves as a foundational base for the entire field of study. It also reveals how little students— especially Black students— are taught about their own social history or influence beyond their own individual experience, he said.

The Department of African American Studies is thrilled to have Dr. Shane Bolles Walsh, Lecturer, featured on The Black Explosion to discuss his experience attending a College Board conference in their development of the AP African American Studies course that will be distributed to the public, effective Fall 2023. 

According to Hines, "College Board invited a range of educators from around the country, in the hopes of receiving feedback from those who have taught the African American studies course. Points of discussion included the history of colorism, intersectionality and readings on notable Black scholars including bell hooks and Kimberlé Crenshaw," (Hines, 2023). As a lecturer, Bolles Walsh appreciates the sentiment and goals behind the AP African American Studies course and its ability to help Black students self-identity and become more aware of their life, history, culture, struggles, and excellence. 

“There's not any genetically toted knowledge about the history of African American people and Black experiences just because you happen to be a Black person,” Walsh said.

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Full Article: UMD lecturer details experience during creation of AP African American Studies course