This document discusses the pros and cons of using open educational resources (OER) instead of traditional textbooks. The benefits of OER include cost savings for students, materials being available at the start of the course, and students being able to contribute to future versions. However, some concerns with OER are whether the quality and longevity of the materials can be ensured, if students prefer printed books, and if OER is accepted for tenure and promotion. The document suggests that choosing OER over traditional textbooks could positively impact students and academic institutions.
2. To OER
Cost savings for student
Materials available to students at start of course
Student contributions to future iterations of course
materials
Content changes without changing books
Faculty determine when change should occur
3. To Not OER
Is it quality material?
Will material exist later?
Are students used to a printed book?
Are there ancillary materials for course?
Is it part of the tenure and promotion process?
4. The Road Not Takenby Robert Frost (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Road_Not_Taken) CC by SA
Taking the one less traveled by may make all the
difference in:
- the lives of our students
- in the life of the academy
