GSLL  6206 80 Sec. 2

Roger Johnson

11 February 2012

Afrocentricity: A Phenomenon or a Concept

            As I reflect on this course, I find the written material interesting but difficult to follow at times. What I do find quite interesting about this course is that the community of practice Wenger is describing, have characteristics and notions similar to those of the Afrocentric Community. I say this because the only difference I see between community practices and Afrocentric practices, is the wording.  The only problem I have with Wenger's notions is that he does not expound on the issue of race. I believe the word race is often used to establish advantage and privilege, or perhaps both. So the whole idea of Afrocentric theory has to be taken seriously because Africa had successful and productive kingdoms, long before European society became a part of  building a society.

            Africa is home to the oldest document ever written, The Teachings of Ptahhotep. I only use this information as a point of reference, and not as a  topic for my essay. Therefore, Africans must have had knowledgeable societies since they were fully functional and productive, and in possession of scientific knowledge. My point is not to say that an Afrocentric theory is superior to Eurocentric theory, nor am I saying that it is inferior, but what I am saying is that Afrocentricity is alive and must be considered valid. 

Getting back to Wenger's idea of community practices, s/he concludes that the imagination is what gives us the ability to go beyond physical engagement. On the same token, s/he also describes that communities of practice considers practice as a mutual engagement, the development of interpersonal relationships, and sense of belonging. Ironically, the very essence of Afrocentricity entails all of the concepts because, Afrocentric theory places emphasis on conscientiousness, focus and understanding. For me, the notion of community of practice is an Africentric concept because it states that society must work from an alternative position.

This idea means that oppositional voices must also be heard and considered. If this concept of Africentricity is denied its place in society and history, it will only serve to reinforce the mistrust.  The  domination of Eurocentric educational institutions have to improve positive educational outcomes for all social and ethnic groups. Thus, any successful strategy for educational change must empower all  for groups whose experiences and histories have been marginalized by European educational systems.