The Benefits and Challenges of Open Educational Resources

The benefits and challenges of using OER

1. Heather Ryan Snapshot: Open Educational Resources The ups and downs of using Open Educational Resources

2. Open Education Resources: a quick definition “Open Educational Resources (OER) are learning, teaching and research materials in any format and medium that reside in the public domain or are under copyright that have been released under an open license, that permit no-cost access, re-use, re-purpose, adaptation and redistribution by others” ( UNESCO ) 2

3. Flexibility: Instructors can use an entire OER textbook, or sections of it, add to these with their own text/writing, and build a course reading list from many sources. Adaptability: Because of this flexibility, instructors can update their materials regularly to keep pace with their field/discipline. Collaborative Opportunities: Because of the nature of OER materials, instructors have increased opportunity to collaborate with peers in their field (reading and sharing their work, etc.). 3 Instructor Benefits of Using OER Materials

4. Lower cost: OER materials are often free or low cost for students. Accessibility: OER materials are often available in digital formats and without licenses/subscriptions, and with the ability to use other accessibility features (screen readers, etc.). 4 Student Benefits of Using OER Materials

5. “Free” does not mean “easy”: OER materials are like a free puppy—they take a lot of time and energy, especially in the beginning. Requires specific licensing knowledge: Instructors need to understand Creative Commons and the various licenses, as well as the concept and rules about the public domain. Requires quality checks: OER materials can be outdated or even wrong. Instructors have to check any materials before implementing. 5 Instructor Challenges of Using OER Materials

6. Technology divide: Because OER materials are most often digital, students need reliable computers and internet access. Accessibility: Not all OER materials meet accessibility standards, which can make full access for some students difficult or impossible. 6 Student Challenges of Using OER Materials

7. Thank you Heather Ryan