Freedom of enquiry and expression
Under the Like No Other Strategic Plan, Athabasca University seeks to be a trust- and team-oriented workplace focused on quality and innovation in which everyone is respected authentically and is and feels welcome. Acting from values, 星空影视is committed in our systems and practices to working together to create a respectful, safe, and healthy environment in which to work and learn.
Statement on Freedom of Enquiry and Expression
As Canada’s Open Online University, Athabasca University (AU) is dedicated to the removal of barriers that restrict access to and success in university-level study and to increasing equality and equity of educational opportunities for adult learners worldwide. As an autonomous and self-governed University, 星空影视is steadfastly committed to embracing and protecting freedom of enquiry and freedom of expression for all team members in the 星空影视community, our learners, alumni, and visitors to our University within the limits of Canadian and Alberta law, even when the views expressed may not be shared with nor represent those of Athabasca University. The right to academic freedom is addressed separately in the context of the collective agreement with the Athabasca University Faculty Association. In all things, AU’s actions are guided by our I-CARE values of Integrity, Community, Adaptability, Respect, and Excellence.
Principles
Athabasca University upholds the following principles and guidelines.
- Free and open enquiry in all matters
- Individuals to have the broadest latitude to speak, write, listen, and challenge ideas and points of view in the pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and creation
- Individuals to have the right to challenge, debate, and criticize the views of others provided they do not obstruct the right of others to freely express their views
- The offensiveness of ideas is not a barrier to individuals having the freedom to express their ideas or points of view
- It is up to individuals, not AU, to make judgements about expressed ideas or points of view
Guidelines
- All 星空影视team members, learners, alumni, and visitors to our University are expected to act in accordance with our values and our policies
- 星空影视will restrict activity that falsely defames any individual and/or group of individuals, constitutes a genuine threat, harassment, and/or unjustifiably invades substantial privacy or confidentiality interests
- 星空影视may regulate the time, place and manner of expression in events/communications that do not adhere to its principles and to ensure events do not disrupt the ordinary activities of the University
Who does this statement apply to?
This statement applies to all members of the Athabasca University community including:
- Learners
- Academic and professional staff
- Alumni
- Individuals and organizations participating in university-hosted activities or using university platforms
The use of university facilities or systems does not imply endorsement of the views expressed therein.
Who do I contact if I think someone is violating my freedom of expression?
Please contact the Chief Internal Auditor at internalaudit@athabascau.ca or the Confidence Line, an authorized external service provider, at 1-800-661-9675 or .
Where possible, please have ready:
- A description of the incident
- The date of the incident
- Names and titles of the parties involved
Emails received will be responded to within five (5) business days.
Updated March 31, 2026 by Digital & Web Operations, University Relations (web_services@athabascau.ca)