Faculty Library Services

Adopting a complete open textbook is an ideal solution for many instructors. This approach allows you to replace an expensive textbook with a free, high-quality alternative that provides the same level of content and usability. It simplifies the process for both instructors and students, creating a seamless transition to open educational resources.

However, not all disciplines have access to a fully developed open textbook. In such cases, instructors may need to explore other options to ensure their course materials meet the required standards and learning objectives.

For many instructors, combining multiple open materials offers a flexible and effective way to support their courses. This approach involves selecting several OERs that together cover the necessary content, similar to creating a course pack. It allows for a tailored learning experience that aligns with the course syllabus.

Thanks to open licensing, instructors can remix and reorganize these materials to create a cohesive resource. This ensures that students have a streamlined experience, with content presented in a logical and engaging manner.

Remixing OER provides instructors with the opportunity to customize materials to fit their specific teaching needs. By combining content from various open resources, you can create a unique resource that aligns perfectly with your course objectives and structure.

This process not only enhances the relevance of the materials but also maximizes student engagement. With the ability to adapt and reorganize content, instructors can ensure that their students receive the most effective and personalized learning experience possible.

In some cases, it may be necessary to include closed materials alongside OER to address specific course requirements. For example, a course might require a copyrighted novel or other specialized content that is not available as an open resource. In such instances, instructors can use a combination of open and closed materials to meet their needs.

When incorporating closed materials, it is important to adhere to copyright guidelines, such as Fair Use, or ensure students have access through traditional purchasing methods. This approach allows for a balanced use of resources while maintaining the benefits of OER.

The right to make, own, and control copies of the content.

The right to use the content in a wide range of ways (e.g., in a class, study group, website, or video).

The right to adapt, adjust, modify, or alter the content itself (e.g., translate the content into another language).

The right to combine original or revised content with other open content to create something new (e.g., incorporate the content into a mashup).

The right to share copies of the original content, your revisions, or your remixes with others (e.g., give a copy of the content to a friend).