What does it mean for Africa to be socially constructed?

The notion or idea that Africans themselves are primitive and have no recollection of their history so they have relied on European Countries' interpretations of their history. It appears that Africans' contributions to their history are not considered important and are dismissed. Yet, it is the only continent that can be referred to as a whole group that isn't referred to quite often by separate countries but rather a group of people that says something about their unity. 

In which ways can knowledge about the social construction of Africa help us towards a just framing of Africa in the classroom?

It is important to draw some similarities and backgrounds for our younger students before they compare some differences. I teach first graders and I know they might be more fixated on the geography and landscape of the continent, but it's important for students to recognize that telling our own stories using our voice is transformative. 

In which ways can it be dangerous?