Even when the socioeconomic background is controlled, there is still a difference between blacks and whites in academic achievement. Studies have shown that, though social class is a factor in that difference, ethnicity is the primary factor. This report discusses ideologies that have tried to explain that ethnic difference. It discusses the cognitive deficit theory and the black inferiority theory. It also considers research focusing on the relationship between the culture of the black community and the learning and expressive styles of black children. The report maintains that black students use the relational approach to learning. But educators and psychologists value and reward only the analytical approach to learning. They have responded to the relational style and behavior by either ignoring them or attempting to erase them. The effect of that conflict on blacks is covered. A list of references is appended. (PS)