ABCs to ATMs - The Case for Paying Students to Learn

The Challenges of Creating a Globally Acceptable Curriculum

In an era where education is increasingly globalized, the need for a universally acceptable curriculum is more urgent than ever. Outstanda aims to bridge this gap, offering a global platform where learning is inclusive, unbiased, and respectful of all perspectives. However, achieving this is no small feat. This article delves into the challenges Outstanda faces in creating a curriculum that appeals to a diverse, global audience while maintaining its core values.

The Ethical Imperative

Outstanda operates under a strong ethical framework that prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, caste, or disability. We also steer clear of publishing opinions and conspiracy theories as facts. While this might seem straightforward, it presents challenges when it comes to gaining acceptance in cultures or regimes that hold opposing views.

Controversial Topics: To Include or Not to Include?

One of the major challenges in creating a universally acceptable curriculum is dealing with topics that may be controversial in some communities. These could range from politics and religion to social issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, or racial discrimination. Outstanda’s approach is to include such topics only in college-level courses, which are still open to everyone, where they can be discussed with depth and nuance. Schools at any level always have the option to teach what is appropriate in their communities, in addition to Outstanda materials.

A Balanced View of History

History is often a subject of contention. What one culture perceives as a victorious moment, another may see as a time of oppression. Outstanda aims to provide a balanced view, respecting both sides but not giving equal weight to perspectives that come from a place of hate or aggression. 

Respecting Religious Diversity

Religion is another area where the waters get murky. Outstanda’s policy is to treat all religions founded in kindness as equally valid cultural and historical movements. However, this too can be a point of contention in countries where religious freedom is restricted or where certain religions are favored over others.

Educational Isolationism: A Risky Path

Outstanda maintains its integrity by refusing to allow any entity to censor its materials. This policy, while steadfast, can lead to ‘educational isolationism’ where entire nations may choose to block Outstanda, thereby depriving their citizens of its benefits.

Schools individually have control. Each school chooses which learning gigs it will sponsor so students can be paid. This allows a school to incentives some topics, and not others. But all materials are open to students who are interested.

No Room for Hate

It’s crucial to clarify that while Outstanda aims for inclusivity and balance, there is no room for hate speech, revisionist history, or any form of discrimination. This is non-negotiable and is integral to the platform’s mission and values.

Outstanda is not a “freedom of speech” platform. It is a carefully thought out, curated, and developed set of programs that a vast majority of people can count on as a reliable and fair source of information.

Creating a globally acceptable curriculum is a Herculean task fraught with challenges. However, Outstanda remains committed to its mission of offering unbiased, respectful, and inclusive education to all. As we navigate these complexities, our goal remains clear: to provide an educational platform where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. 

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Ron McDaniel
Author of “ABCs to ATMs”
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