Open Educational Resources (OER) revolutionize higher education by democratizing learning materials for students and instructors alike. OER at UBC embody this vision and transform the way knowledge is shared, making it more dynamic, accessible, and easily adjustable across many disciplines.
One of the most significant barriers to knowledge acquisition in higher education is the high cost of learning. Traditional textbooks are often prohibitively expensive for many students, leading to financial strain and, in some cases, limiting access to essential course materials. Additionally, traditional textbooks can quickly become outdated, making it challenging for instructors to provide students with the most current information.
Impacts of OER on textbooks and curriculum development
These challenges underscore the importance of Open Educational Resources, particularly open textbooks, which provide a cost-effective, adaptable, and inclusive alternative to traditional hard cover textbooks.
Open textbooks eliminate or significantly reduce the financial burden on students. Unlike traditional textbooks, which can cost hundreds of dollars per course, they are freely accessible, ensuring that all students, regardless of their financial situation, have access to the necessary learning materials. This shift contributes to greater inclusivity in higher education by leveling the playing field and allowing more students to succeed without worrying about prohibitive costs.
“What sets my textbook apart is that it’s open-edit, meaning it’s free, and incorporates multimedia – something you don’t always get with traditional textbooks,” explains Dr. Jennifer Kong, adjunct professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. “Even online textbooks don’t offer the same flexibility that open education does.” ……Please visit the Open UBC website to read the full story and learn more about open education at UBC.
