The Pedagogy of Real Talk

Dr. Paul Hernandez, PhD, is a nationally recognized leader in college access, student success, pedagogy, and in creating and fostering a sense of belonging. Holding a doctorate in Sociology with a specialization in education, social inequality, and intersectionality, Dr. Hernandez has extensive experience as a faculty member, non-profit administrator, and higher education administrator. As a scholar-practitioner, he collaborates with higher education institutions, K-12 schools, and non-profit organizations to enhance student learning and success by creating and fostering inclusive and supportive educational environments. Dr. Hernandez’s personal journey from gang culture and deep poverty on the streets of Los Angeles to achieving academic and professional success adds a powerful dimension to his work. He openly shares his story to inspire and empower others.

Foreword by David Osher
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Author
1. Introduction
Students at Risk
The Reseacher
MSU HEP
The Pedagogy
2. Real Talk
The Theoretical Foundations of Real Talk
Refinement of the Pedagogy of Real Talk
The Pedagogy of Real Talk and Other Approaches
3. The Students, Their Experiences, and the Academic Results
Inception of the Case Study
HEP Student Participants
The Results
4. Implementing Real Talk in the HEP Program
Dialogue
Relating to Students
Structure
Clarity
Redundancy
Enthusiasm
Appropriate Pace
Maximized Engagement
5. Flexibility, Adaptability, and Effort
Flexibility
Adaptability
Effort
6. Terministic Screens and Real Talk Discussions
Terministic Screens
Real Talk
7. Dealing With the Exceptions
The Case of PB
The Case of Jessie
The Case of LB
The Challenge to Teachers
8. Implementing Real Talk in Any Classroom
9. The Training of Teachers
The Basic Components and Foundations of the Pedagogy
Connections Through Real Talk
Another Real Talk Example
Maintaining Connections
10. Training: Alternative Lessons
Alternative Lesson Examples
11. Training and Feedback
12. New Beginnings
Appendices
Bibliography
Index