Resources intended for reuse
UNESCO’s recommendation adopted on 25 November 2019 covers teaching, learning and research materials across formats and media, whether in the public domain or released under suitable open permissions.
A free-to-view textbook or video may not authorize translation, adaptation or redistribution. Price, account requirements and a download button do not by themselves establish the relevant rights.
References: [1]
Adaptation for learners
Permissions can support local-language versions, curricular adaptation and accessible formats. The recommendation also recognizes offline and printed access rather than assuming continuous internet connectivity.
Editable source files and open formats make adaptation practical. UNESCO therefore addresses source-file sharing, accessible representations and public repositories alongside licensing.
Teaching, quality and maintenance
Permission does not guarantee accuracy or suitability for a particular age, curriculum or language. UNESCO calls for evaluating both open and other materials through appropriate quality-assurance mechanisms.
Creation, translation, preservation and updates need continuing support. The five policy areas address capacity, policy, equitable access, sustainability and cooperation rather than treating a one-time upload as sufficient.
References: [1]