Academic Freedom
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Liberty University *
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Course
647
Subject
Arts Humanities
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
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2
Uploaded by cporter60
As per Essex (2016), academic freedom encompasses the freedom of educators to choose
their own teaching methodology, the authority to select the resources to be used in the classroom,
and the freedom from administrative coercion to incorporate or omit specific materials or ideas
from the curriculum. In addition, academic freedom includes ideas about use, ideas about
teachers incorporating materials into the curriculum, and ideas about presenting specific works
that might be protected by copyrights or other legal safeguards (Essex, 2016, p. 207). Academic
independence affects learning at all levels. There may be greater academic freedom allowed
depending on the level of teaching proficiency of a teacher. Accordingly, a college professor will
enjoy greater academic autonomy than an educator in a high school (Essex, 2016, p. 207).
It is crucial to remember that academic freedom varies depending on the subject, the
students' ages, and the environment. When determining whether the subject is age appropriate, it
is crucial for educators to be aware of and comprehend the histories of their students. It is
recommended that you adhere to the syllabus that was submitted and approved. Teachers can
then be certain that the content and materials are suitable for the students. This is particularly true
for public schools, since any curriculum that is taught in the classroom requires approval from
the administration. Authorization is required before a teacher can deviate from the syllabus. I
have witnessed multiple instances in which educators faced disciplinary action for using
instructional materials or showcasing films that weren't authorized by the administration
beforehand. The lesson is to follow the curriculum and obtain permission for any ideas that are
not linked to it, regardless of the school's location or type. Moreover, it's critical to obtain written
consent whenever permission is granted. Frequently, vocal confirmation rather than written
confirmation is used to obtain consent. If a parent or student files a complaint and the approver
cannot recall granting you permission to add to the syllabus, this could be a problem.
Consequently, if you need to defend your activities against allegations, documentation is
essential.
Psalm 119:45 describes the importance of having freedom while still obeying Christ. “I
will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts” (New International Version,
1978/2011, Psalm 119:45). Educators need to have freedom while still obeying authority and
getting permission for certain content.
Reference:
Essex, N. (2016). School law and the public schools: A practical guide for educational leaders
(6th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Pearson Publishing.
New International Version Bible. (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)
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