Instruction Resources

Big Ideas:

• There are different shades of authority and they hold different weight in different situations
• Preferencing traditional sources can hinder non-traditional or diverse points of view and that privilege influences perceptions of authority
• Authority should be viewed with an attitude of informed skepticism

Possible Session Level Learning Outcomes:

• Students will be able to determine what makes an authoritative source in their disciplines
• Students will recognize that traditional notions of granting authority might hinder diverse ideas and world views
• Students will acknowledge that oneself may be seen as an authority in a particular area, and recognize the responsibilities entailed
• Students will evaluate sources using a variety of criteria in order to cultivate a skeptical stance and a self-awareness of their own biases and world views