As we came to an end of OE Global 2023, the echoes of insightful discussions, dynamic presentations, and shared enthusiasm for innovation lingered in the air. This annual gathering served as a crucible of ideas, bringing together diverse minds from different institutions around the world to explore the frontiers of OER together. Having had the privilege to immerse ourselves in this enriching experience, we find ourselves compelled to reflect upon the myriad of perspectives, discoveries, and challenges that unfolded over the course of the conference. This reflective journey not only allows us to revisit the valuable insights gained but also provides a platform to delve deeper into the implications and applications of the knowledge imparted by the luminaries in our field. Join some of the CCCOER members in attendance as we navigate the corridors of memory and intellectual stimulation, exploring the resonating impact of OE Global 2023 on our professional and personal growth.
OE Global 2023 was a deep learning experience for me. The pre-conference event lead by Jeanien Bell, Indigenous Studies Program Chair at Norquest College, taught me about the land-based wisdom, culture, and cuisine of the Inuit people and included a bowl of tasty seal soup. Darrion Letendre, STEM & Land-Based Learning Coordinator at NorQuest College opened the conference emphasizing the importance of learning in community, land-based education, and relationship building with all living beings. He unpacked the concept of two-eyed seeing where indigenous knowledge is braided with the values of open education while remaining respectful of indigenous protocols for knowledge sharing. Throughout, the conference we were graced with the artistry, profound life stories, and knowledge from musicians, dancers, and educators from Treaty 6 (Edmonton) and other indigenous communities throughout Canada and the world. A conference closing circle provided us space to share our learning and listen deeply to each other within a tobacco offering ceremony. I would love to see closing circles at more conferences to facilitate commitment to applying our learning after we return home.
– Una Daly, outgoing, CCCOER Director
This was my first attendance at an OE Global Conference. It was an incredible experience, as I had an opportunity to foster relationships with colleagues whom I had remotely worked with for years and had a chance to see in-person for the first time. It was also a chance for me to develop new relationships with people from potentially 34 different countries. I particularly enjoyed the theme of the conference and the various keynote speakers and their cultural performances. Their speeches were so profound that I was encouraged to reflect on my own upbringing and how it has shaped who I am as a person and as a professional. Perhaps the most significant reflection that emerged from the conference was a renewed call to action. I was reminded that the work of open education is far from complete and that we have to continue uniting to advance its principles.
– Shinta Hernandez, President of CCCOER Executive Council
OE Global continues to have an impact on me and the work I’m doing at Montgomery College in Maryland. I was deeply touched by the focus on two-eyed seeing, this gift of seeing multiple perspectives. Each perspective has its strengths, and putting all those strengths together benefits everyone. I like this approach because of the interdisciplinary work required for one of our open pedagogy fellowships. The incredible stories, music and dances further my belief that each of us should learn more about the land on which we live.
– Michael Mills, Advisory Emeritus member
I felt a strong sense of community and belonging that connected the participants throughout the entire event. Being a first-time attendee, I had the chance to meet colleagues I had previously only interacted with online and established many new connections. These conversations were invigorating and promising, and I believe these connections will thrive – working together and finding kinship being such an important aspect of the OER space. The emphasis on ‘two-eyed seeing’ and the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and art were deeply moving and left a lasting impact on me.
– Heather Blicher (incoming) Program Director, CCCOER
Attending OE Global 2023 was, for me, an exploration into new ways of thinking. The weaving of indigenous perspectives throughout the conference inspired me to reflect on how open education resources and practices can be more inclusive across multiple perspectives. I was particularly inspired by the concept of braiding together indigenous and western ideas, like intertwining threads to weave a stronger fabric of knowledge. The call to build a sustainable world through open education left me hopeful – that by weaving multiple worldviews together, we can build understanding and create a more just society. This experience opened my eyes to new possibilities in education and reinvigorated my passion for teaching in an inclusive, socially conscious way.
– Debbie Baker, Vice President of CCCOER Membership
Even though I’ve been able to attend OE Global three times now, it just keeps getting better and better. The sense of community and the focus on sharing is truly exceptional. The focus on Indigenous ways of knowing left me with a renewed sense of purpose. The friendships and connections made during this short week are precious. I am once again inspired by the shared passion and commitment to open education.
– Lori-Beth Larsen, Vice President of Professional Development
This is the first in-person OE Global conference that I have attended and presented at, and it was so much more than what I had even imagined! All the cultural aspects that NorQuest College had braided into the conference not only spoke to how the OER community interweaves DEI into as many materials as possible, but also shared Alberta’s rich history and diversity. The people that I have been talking to online for years became friends at this conference and I cannot wait to see them in person again.
– Gracie McDonough, Vice President of Communications
