Welcome to our comprehensive evaluation of the Decolonising the Curriculum (DtC) initiatives within the Postgraduate Certificate in International Sports Management (PGCert ISM), delivered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL). This report presents an executive summary of findings, methodologies, and recommendations that highlight the transformative potential of decolonial approaches in higher education.
Overview of the Report
This study explores how DtC (Decolonisation through Curriculum) initiatives can enrich learning experiences for diverse global audiences by integrating:
- Diverse Cultural Perspectives: Incorporating non-Western methodologies and inclusive pedagogies.
- Culturally Inclusive Resources: Ensuring course content reflects global diversity.
- A Culturally Diverse Teaching Team: Promoting inclusivity and representation within the faculty.
By employing a mixed-methods approach—combining Action Research (AR) and Programme Theory Evaluation (PTE)—the study evaluates the outcomes and challenges of implementing DtC principles in Online and Distance Learning (ODL) environments.
Key Findings
- Awareness of Decolonisation:
Students exhibited varying levels of initial understanding of decolonial concepts. - Impact of Faculty Diversity:
A culturally diverse teaching team positively influenced student engagement and inclusivity. - Effectiveness of Inclusive Resources:
Tailored resources significantly enhanced learning outcomes, fostering critical thinking and cultural sensitivity.
Recommendations
- Promote Decolonisation Webinars:
Enhance awareness through targeted events. - Support Diverse Student Needs:
Provide tailored resources and mentorship to address unique cultural and educational backgrounds. - Consistently Embed Decolonial Elements:
Integrate these principles across the entire curriculum for sustained impact.
Contributions
This report concludes that decolonial efforts in ODL not only foster inclusivity and critical thinking but also strengthen the global relevance of sports management education. By advancing holistic, culturally responsive teaching strategies, these initiatives contribute to bridging educational inequities on a global scale.
Acknowledgments
This study was made possible through the generous support and funding from the Centre for Online and Distance Education (CODE).
Download the Full Report
Access the full report to gain deeper insights into the methodologies, findings, and actionable steps for advancing decolonisation in higher education. Download the report here.
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