Perspective

Dimension 2: Critical

Evaluating OER against the Perspective criterion

Critical

OER are critically reviewed, issues are challenged and stereotypes are subverted.

The Equity Rubric for OER Evaluation gives a resource a high rating for Perspective if it “challenges perspectives within instructional materials.”

The Rubric suggests looking for “an assets-based versus deficit narrative in a textbook passage.”

Key Examples and Suggestions

Math for Trades: Volume 1

Flinn & Overgaard

This book ensures case studies and scenarios are inclusive and do not reinforce stereotypes.

For example, in Chapter 7: The Basics of Fractions, gender-neutral pronouns and names for electrical apprentices are used that invite the reader to imagine people outside the stereotype of a masculine tradesperson.

Access: Math for Trades

Inclusive Perspectives in Primary Education

room305 and Inclusive Education Class 2020-2021

This book focuses on providing a variety of perspectives on education. Chapter 40: Stereotypes is especially useful in understanding why diverse perspectives in learning materials are necessary and how to achieve this.

Access: Inclusive Perspectives

Content Suggestion: Diverse and inclusive imagery

Using images that reflect a diversity of people and do not perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

For example, check out the World Obesity organisation’s Image Bank for non-biased and respectful images related to obesity. These images are openly licensed for non-commercial use (guidelines for use) and intended for news media to draw on for accurate and respectful reporting.

Access: World Obesity Image Bank

Learning Resource: Expanding Perspectives in Your Search

Shannon Roux, Taylor Harper, Kian Ravaei, Jeannie Chen, UCLA WI+RE

This wonderful bite-sized online tutorial walks learners through an example search, demonstrating how to identify a narrow perspective in search results and how to intentionally expand a perspective through broader search techniques.

The related H5P resource Positionality & Research is also an excellent learning tool and gentle entry into this complex field.

Access: Expanding Perspectives in Your Search

Download this page (pdf)