B303: Beyond Textbooks: Open Education Resources
1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Stephen Miller,
Associate Vice Provost, UMUC Library,
University of Maryland University College Lindley Homol,
Reference and Instruction Librarian,
University of Maryland University College Amedeo DeCara,
Reference Librarian & eLearning Coordinator, Babson Library,
Springfield College Kim Colangelo,
Associate Director for Technology Services,
Springfield College
University of Maryland University College is replacing traditional textbooks and other student-purchased course materials with online open educational resources (OERs) and other no-cost digital materials for all undergraduate classes. Presenters discuss the library’s role in the technical and organizational infrastructure, issues that arose, and best practices that evolved. These projects cause much stress for all involved. Springfield College School of Professional and Continuing Studies (PCS) also transitioned to OER. The library collaborated with administrators to offer a broad selection of information sessions and support services that eased the transition process for worried faculty while simultaneously educating them about the benefits of OER. As a result, buy-in and success rates increased while stress levels decreased throughout the early stages of a significant cultural shift.
