Description

This course introduces learners to ways of understanding that are rooted in African-centred values, histories, and lived experiences. The course begins by looking at the lasting impacts of enslavement and racial oppression, and how people of African descent have worked across generations to resist harm, preserve culture, and reclaim identity. Learners are invited to explore Afrocentricity not only as a response to injustice but as a meaningful approach to healing, self-understanding, and community strength. 

As the course moves into present-day contexts, learners examine how Afrocentric ideas shape culture, education, media, justice, health, leadership, and economic life in Canada, with a specific focus on African Nova Scotian communities. Through examples drawn from music, art, storytelling, education, media, restorative justice, wellness practices, and community-based economics, the course shows how Afrocentricity is lived and practiced in everyday life. 

Throughout the course, learners are encouraged to reflect on concepts such as Ubuntu, Ma’at, Sankofa, and Ujamaa, and how these principles offer different ways of thinking about justice, well-being, leadership, and shared prosperity. The course supports learners in developing a deeper understanding of community, responsibility, balance, and cultural respect, while considering how these values can help build more inclusive and equitable futures. In summary, the learner will be able to: 

• Understand Afrocentricity as a theoretical framework and methodology. 
• Explore the histories and experiences of people of African descent, particularly in Nova Scotia. 
• Apply Afrocentric thought to education, media, public policy, and community development. 
• Promote cultural reclamation, critical thinking, and social justice. 

Modules include:  

• Module 1: Introduction to Afrocentricity 
• Module 2: Historical Roots of Afrocentricity and Black Nova Scotian History: 1600s-1800s 
• Module 3: Philosophical Foundations and Methodology: Challenging Eurocentric thought and behaviour 
• Module 4: Language and Cultural Identities 
• Module 5: Spirituality, Arts and Expression 
• Module 6: Education and Curriculum 
• Module 7: Global Perspectives and Media Representation: Afrocentricity in the Age of Visibility 
• Module 8: Intersectionality and Afrocentric Feminism 
• Module 9: Contemporary Challenges and Applications 
• Module 10: Policing, Justice and Activism 
• Module 11: Health, Gender and Wellness 
• Module 12: Afrocentric Entrepreneurship, Economics and Futures 
• Module 13: Moving Forward with Afrocentric Knowledge 

Competencies to be Developed (Competencies based on National Competency Profile for Career Development Professionals)

• Diversity and Inclusion (4.1) - Respect Diversity and Inclusion
• Diversity and Inclusion (4.2) - Promote Diversity and Inclusion
• Professional Development (6.2) - Engage in Lifelong Learning
• Foundational Knowledge and Applied Theories (10.1) - Understand Career Development Theories and Models
• Awareness of Diverse Worldviews (13.2) - Work with Immigrant Clients
• Awareness of Diverse Worldviews (13.9) - Work with Clients Experiencing Racism

Learning Opportunity

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

• Understand Afrocentricity as a theoretical framework and methodology. 
• Explore the histories and experiences of people of African descent, particularly in Nova Scotia. 
• Apply Afrocentric thought to education, media, public policy, and community development. 
• Promote cultural reclamation, critical thinking, and social justice. 

Course Structure

To support different learning preferences and schedules, this course is offered in two flexible formats.

Option 1: Self-Directed Online Learning

Work through the course at your own pace—anytime, anywhere.

• Approximate time: 6 hours 40 minutes
• 13 short modules of guided online learning
• Accessed through the NSCDA Learning HUB
• Includes reflection activities and multimedia content

This option is ideal if you prefer independent learning and flexible timing.

Option 2:  Self-Directed Online Learning + Instructor-Led Sessions

This option combines independent online learning with live, facilitated sessions and is offered as a scheduled event through the NSCDA Learning HUB.

When you register for the event, you will:

• Receive access to the whole online course (all 13 modules) in the HUB
• Be enrolled in five live virtual Zoom sessions with a facilitator
• Complete three modules between each live session
• Participate in a small group format (maximum 25 participants)

Live sessions create space for shared learning and real-time dialogue. Sessions may include:

• Opening with acknowledgment of African Nova Scotian presence and Mi’kmaq territory
• Circle or town-hall-style discussion
• Local guest voices and lived-experience perspectives
• Reflection, journaling, or partner conversations
• Visual slides and short video or audio clips featuring local stories and communities

This option is ideal if you value guided discussion, community learning, and facilitated reflection.