2. OER Benefits
• Save money for students
The Architectural Engineering Design (AED) program has some very expensive
textbooks. With OER I may be able to find free alternatives.
• Add interesting/engaging materials to my course content
Utilizing YouTube videos, and resources in Canvas Commons and Open WA, I
can add variety to my lectures and Modules.
• Do not have to reinvent the wheel
By utilizing existing course materials, I don’t have to spend valuable time
developing assignments and quizzes that already exist.
3. OER Benefits (continued)
• Continuing Education
OER provides a platform for continuing education for everyone; instructors,
students, and those just wanting to delve deeper into a subject.
• Unlimited Access
The information doesn’t go away. Students can review course materials before,
during or after they take a course.
4. OER Challenges
• Quality
Sometimes the ‘cover’ is misleading, and once the ‘book’ is actually opened one
finds there is little substance. It therefor takes time to vet materials to ensure
what one uses if of high quality.
• Finding course content
When teaching non-traditional courses, finding OER resources can be very time
consuming.
• Giving credit where credit is due
Accurately giving credit to the originator can be difficult. Knowing where to look
for the license information, and then once found, copying it, is not always easy!
5. OER Challenges (continued)
• Can I really copy this?
Once information is found that I want to use I have to determine how I am
allowed to use, if at all, the information.
• Out of date information
Information does not go away, so how can I be assured that what I choose to
share in my course is current and accurate?
