Knowledge Equity in Information Organizations

The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to concepts and considerations of epistemic injustice and knowledge equity in the context of GLAM organizations. The course examines theories of epistemic injustice, particularly as it touches on the circulation of information through information spaces such as libraries and explores and teaches practices that bring knowledge equity. Theorist Miranda Fricker has described epistemic injustice as wrong done to someone specifically in their capacity as a knower. Students will critically examine the ways dominant information organization (infra)structures are sites of epistemic injustice, where frameworks of description, digital encoding, and standardized naming are used as methods of domination and oppression. Students will also engage and explore theories and mechanisms to work toward knowledge equity within GLAM organizations.

This course can be used to fulfil the “Critical Perspectives” Professional Requirement.

• Syllabus Fall 2021