Critical Digital Pedagogy and Instructional Approaches in Online Relationship Education

In recent years, rates of intercultural and interracial marriages have increased more than fivefold from 3% in 1967 to 17% in 2015. This session explores instructional design considerations for providing relationship education online to intercultural and interracial couples. Principles in digital critical pedagogy are introduced and discussions raised for how to develop culturally responsive and inclusive learning experiences in online contexts.

Critical digital pedagogy is a developing field influenced by the work of bell hooks and others in critical and engaged pedagogy, and which explores these topics in the context of digital learning environments. Critical digital pedagogy is concerned with open learning developed in community and collaboration; the inclusion and participation of diverse, international voices; the truths and perspectives that emerge from a diversity of voices; and the applicability of this information beyond the walls of traditional higher education (Stommel, 2014). Relationship education focuses on increasing knowledge and building skills such as communication and conflict resolution that are important for individuals, couples, and families to establish and maintain healthy relationships. While more culturally appropriate education materials are now available in the field of relationship education, there are few resources focused on the unique experiences and needs of intercultural and interracial couples.