Leigh-Anne Perryman and Rebecca Ferguson presented at OERxDomains21 a session entitled “Open Pedagogies in a Pandemic: Educator Perceptions and Experiences in Diverse Contexts.” Perryman talked about IET’s Microcredentials and how they were designed using elements of open pedagogies. Educators commented on the autonomy and empowerment they found in designing these microcredentials using open pedagogies. The use of co-creating and sharing was included in the microcredential courses by creating posters and resources learners could share. Perryman noted that there was a variety of experiences reported by educators. The challenges that Perryman noted being described by educators focused on confidence. Educators were concerned about the quality of open works and the autonomy often required to create and share. Perryman then mentioned that using UDL-informed open pedagogy ensures equitable use and access. Perryman highlighted how open pedagogies can connect learners with the world. Educators reported using Twitter chats with professionals in the field. Collaboration was noted as a challenge, and this may be due to the logistics and a safety aspect. There are risks of open sharing online including cyber violence. This was noted by Mike Wesch in a session I watched yesterday. One educator mentioned the risks of taking a class “off the LMS” or “exposing the class to the internet.” Perryman mentioned the key may be offering choice and options. Technology barriers were noted too. I thought that talking about renewable resources and the possible challenges with respect to institutional expectations and assessment was important to consider. We all learn from each other. While I am really excited about open pedagogies and implementing opportunities for co-creation and sharing, I must recognize the limitations and potential risks.
