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.
Download this page (pdf)
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