Title: Open Educational Practices for Equity and Inclusion: A Systematic Review of Social Justice Perspectives in Higher Education
Authors: James Russo A. Taga, Ph.D
Volume: 9
Issue: 9
Pages: 261-265
Publication Date: 2025/09/28
Abstract:
Open Educational Practices (OEP) have emerged as transformative strategies in higher education, extending beyond the affordability of open educational resources to embrace participatory, collaborative, and socially just approaches to teaching and learning. By promoting access, flexibility, and inclusivity, OEP align with broader efforts to address inequities that persist in higher education institutions worldwide. However, scholarship on OEP remains fragmented, with limited systematic synthesis of how these practices concretely advance equity and social justice across diverse contexts. This study conducted a systematic review guided by the methodological framework of Strech and Sofaer (2011), which emphasizes transparency, rigor, and replicability in synthesizing empirical evidence. A comprehensive search of ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was undertaken using keywords such as "Open Educational Practices," "social justice in higher education," and "inclusive pedagogy through open education." The review included peer-reviewed articles, dissertations, and policy reports published in English between 2013 and 2025. A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using a narrative synthesis approach to identify thematic patterns. Three major themes emerged from the synthesis: (1) expanding access and democratizing knowledge through OEP, (2) fostering transformative pedagogies and inclusive learning environments, and (3) addressing institutional challenges, policy frameworks, and sustainability. The findings highlight both the opportunities and limitations of OEP in advancing social justice. While OEP can reduce barriers and empower learners, their impact depends on institutional readiness, equitable digital infrastructures, and supportive policy contexts. This review concludes that embedding OEP within broader systemic reforms is essential to ensure their sustainable contribution to equity and inclusion in higher education.