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Leveraging Open Educational Resources and Digital Technologies for Inclusive and Culturally Responsive Early Childhood Education in Open Distance Learning
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Abstract
Equitable access to Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) remains a global challenge, particularly in underserved communities. Open and Distance Learning (ODL), combined with Open Educational Resources (OERs), presents a transformative approach to addressing these disparities by leveraging digital technologies to promote cognitive justice, ensuring that diverse ways of knowing, learning, and teaching are recognised and valued. This study employed Cognitive Justice Theory to explore how OERs and digital technologies support inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive ECED within ODL. Using Convergent Parallel Mixed-Methods Design to answer this research question: How can technologyenhanced cognitive justice in ODL and Open Educational OERs maximise access to ECED in underserved communities? We generated data from 100 ECED teachers, 20 curriculum designers, and 20 policymakers who were purposively sampled to explore how technologyenhanced cognitive justice in ODL, supported by OERs, can maximise access to ECED, particularly for marginalised and disadvantaged learners. A Convergent Parallel MixedMethods Data Analysis Strategy was used to examine how OER and digital tools enhance culturally relevant teaching practices, promote inclusivity, and address barriers to access. Findings highlight the potential of technology-enhanced OER in bridging educational gaps for marginalised learners but also reveal persistent challenges related to digital infrastructure, teacher preparedness, and policy implementation. This study contributes actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders committed to expanding access to quality ECED through technology-enhanced ODL by integrating theoretical perspectives on cognitive justice with empirical insights from digital learning initiatives and OER adoption.
PCF11 Plus: Beyond the Forum
Sub-Theme: Skills development through lifelong open education
Paper ID: 9636
Country
South Africa
Region
Africa
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Date
2025-09
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Publisher
Commonwealth of Learning (COL)