Open educational resources are teaching, learning, and research materials that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license that permits no-cost access, use, adaptation, and redistribution.
How it works
An instructor selects or creates OER that align with course outcomes, checks the license terms, and integrates the materials into the course shell. Students download or view the resources without purchasing a textbook. Some institutions track OER adoption as part of affordability initiatives and report estimated student savings.
Example: an online introductory biology course replaces a $180 commercial textbook with an openly licensed textbook and accompanying lab simulations. Students access both through the learning management system. The course remains a distance education course provided all instructional content is delivered remotely and regular and substantive interaction is present.
How it differs
Commercial textbooks require purchase or rental and usually prohibit adaptation. Library-licensed e-books may be free to enrolled students but cannot be freely redistributed or adapted. Open educational resources are defined by the open license, not merely by being digital or free to the student for one term.
Common errors
Labeling any free web resource as OER without confirming an open license. Assuming OER adoption automatically satisfies accessibility requirements. Treating the use of OER as a change in modality or accreditation status.
References
- 1. UNESCO OER definitionFreely accessible teaching materials
- 2. Institutional OER adoption practicesCost reduction in online courses
Open educational resources are teaching, learning, and research materials that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license that permits no-cost access, use, adaptation, and redistribution.