“You Just Want Somebody to Call On, to Say Help”

Working African American Mothers Experiences of Online Learning During the COVID 19 Pandemic

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the conditions and experiences Black mothers faced as their child(ren) transitioned to online learning while navigating the challenges of being an essential worker during COVID- 19 pandemic. The paper outlines the hopes the mothers had for their children’s schooling experience.  Seventeen African American mothers shared the challenges they faced , the hopes they had and some of the best practices they received that made them feel supported. The qualitative, phenomenological methodology consisted of an initial survey questionnaire and qualitative individual interviews.  Three themes emerged from the study  were: (1) wanting a sense of humanity and communication, (2) the need for technology and its great divide and (3) making it work while working. Based on the findings, the researchers offer recommendations to help administrators, teachers, and community workers to rethink support services provided to families for creating better familial/school partnerships for students.