MADISON, Wis. -- A new class at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is exploring ways that hip-hop can be used to change the way some students learn.

The Madison community has had lengthy discussions about the racial achievement gap, and that's just one of the lessons the new class at the UW-Madison explores.

When people think of hip-hop, many may think of catchy rap songs on the radio with little-to-no academic value.

"The song on the radio says, 'The popo was trying to catch me ridin' dirty,'" said Mike Cirelli, a spoken word artist who said that hip-hop culture is often misunderstood.

But a group of educators said there are lessons behind this very popular culture.

Professor Gloria Ladson-Billings, of the Department of Curriculum & Instruction at UW-Madison, said the culture of hip-hop may be an untapped source for educators.

"There's a whole new vibe young people are into," said Ladson-Billings. "And we're ignoring it. And we could use it as an opportunity."

It's why Ladson-Billings is teaching a new kind of class, showing her students how to think critically about hip-hop's music, artwork and design, and how the lessons of the culture can serve a diverse group of students.

"I think the kids that were not getting it in class will certainly like doing this kind of work," said Ladson-Billings. "But I also think some of the kids who will be fine in a traditional setting will be even more energized and more excited."

"And it's so relevant for young people," said Cirelli. "It's just sort of what we grow up with; it's part of our lexicon. It doesn't matter if you're from New York City or Madison, Wisonsin."

Cirelli said the language of hip-hop is constantly evolving, and that it's a culture worth discovering.

"It feels great," said Cirelli. "It always feels amazing to share your work, to sort of tell your story."

Students enrolled in the UW-Madison class will hear from guest speakers from all over the country on issues ranging from the business of hip-hop to how rapper Jay-Z's words can engage today's youth to excel.

Ladson-Billings said this class was the first time she had to write a disclaimer on the syllabus warning students some of the class material will contain content that's profane, misogynist, racist and homophobic. Ladson-Billings said there is no way to avoid this if you want to have a real, unfiltered discussion about the value and evolution of hip-hop.

A series of public lectures will explore the role of hip-hop in education. The 15-week seminar series began Monday at Grainger Hall on the UW-Madison campus. Each week's lecture will be held Monday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and all are free and open to the public. For more information on the series call 608-890-1006 or visit http://www.omai.wisc.edu.