Learning Resources

The ministry promotes the establishment of a resource-rich learning environment through the evaluation of educationally appropriate materials in a variety of media and formats. This includes, but is not limited to, materials in print, video, and software formats, as well as combinations of these formats intended for use by teachers and students. Resources that support provincial curricula are identified through an evaluation process in which practising teachers act as evaluators. Resources not on the provincially recommended list must be evaluated through a local board-approved process. It is expected that teachers will select resources from those that meet the provincial criteria and that suit their particular pedagogical needs and audiences.

The use of learning resources involves the teacher as a facilitator of learning. However, students may be expected to have some choice in materials for specific purposes such as independent reading or research. Teachers are expected to use a variety of resources to support learning outcomes at any particular level. A multimedia approach is encouraged.

Some selected resources have been identified to support cross-curricular integration. The ministry also considers special needs audiences in the evaluation and annotation of learning resources. As well, special format versions of some selected resources (Braille and taped-book formats) are available.

Learning resources for use in British Columbia schools fall into one of three categories: provincially recommended materials , provincially authorized materials , or locally evaluated materials . All learning resources used in schools must have either recommended or authorized designation or be approved through district evaluation and approval policies.

Provincially Recommended Materials

Materials evaluated through the provincial evaluation process, approved through minister's order, and purchased using targeted learning resource funds are categorized as recommended materials. These resources are listed in the print and CD-ROM versions of the Catalogue of Learning Resources .

Provincially Authorized Materials

Materials selected prior to 1989 by curriculum committees and purchased through the Credit Allocation Plan are categorized as authorized materials. These resources are listed in the print and CD-ROM versions of the Catalogue of Learning Resources .

Locally Evaluated Materials

These are materials evaluated through local (district and school) evaluation processes and approved for use according to district policy.

Table of Contents

Maintained by: Physical Education Coordinator

Revised: January 27, 1999

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