Year

2026

Season

Spring

Paper Type

Doctoral Dissertation

College

Silverfield College of Education and Human Services

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (EdD)

Department

Education

NACO controlled Corporate Body

University of North Florida. Department of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum

Committee Chairperson

Madalina Tanase

Second Advisor

Daniel Dinsmore

Rights Statement

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Department Chair

Kim Cheek

College Dean

Christian Winterbottom

Abstract

This study examined how humanizing education through relationally-driven, subject-centered teaching affects student engagement, literacy, and achievement in an Exploring Hip-Hop as Literature English elective at a diverse high school in Northeast Florida. Drawing on Freire’s concept of humanization, Noddings’ Ethic of Care, Palmer’s focus on subject-centered learning, and the culturally relevant and sustaining pedagogies of Ladson-Billings, Paris, and Alim, the research investigated how humanized education restores meaning and connection to learning. Using a Convergent Parallel Mixed Methods Design, data from thirty students were gathered through surveys, participation and assignment records, standardized assessments, interviews, focus groups, and classroom observations. Quantitative findings indicated improvements in engagement and literacy, while qualitative insights revealed stronger connections, confidence, and motivation. This study concludes that humanizing, subject-centered teaching enhances rigor and equity in English education and offers a framework for curricular reform that promotes critical thinking and inclusive learning environments.

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