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=Institutional policies prohibit the use of inappropriate cultural bias and stereotypes. =

Evidence
It is increasingly apparent that we are seeing an ideology of globalization and equality of opportunities, choice and freedom in education (Forman et al. 2002). This suggests that we ought to be open to teaching through a variety of methods aimed at a diversity of learners. An important part of successful communication to this diverse audience is making sure that learners are not alienated or discriminated against as a result of teaching methods or learning materials.

Teachers need resources that support the learning objectives and advance the learning of students. Mitigating bias is an important element of this. In order that this is consistently delivered across courses and the institution then guidelines need to be written into policy.

Resources
Meagher (2003) provides a preliminary list of questions to ask about e-learning resources. ‘Does the e-learning resource reflect an awareness and sensitivity to areas of bias: appearance, belief systems, disabilities, family structures, gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status?’ (p. 15).