Marginalization of Under-Represented Populations in Online Courses

• In Event: 31.074 - Online Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session 3

Abstract

The rapid growth of post-secondary online courses has resulted in the design of many online courses following a normative framework in which curricular goals target the widest possible audience and representative of dominant paradigms. This has resulted in the marginalization of underrepresented populations who choose to or are required to take online courses. This study is in the process of investigating the underlying reasons many online courses have adopted normative frameworks and what the potential effects are upon underrepresented populations. The results of this study will be used to formulate recommendations for improving online educational opportunities for underrepresented populations.

Authors

• Matthew A. Williams, Kent State University

• N.J. Akbar, Kent State University

• Scot B Tribuzi, Kent State University

• Jesse Wray, Kent State University