Creating OER is more than just writing or adapting a textbook. OER can take on many forms: videos, course readings, quizzes and other knowledge checks, etc. So before you launch a new project consider the following steps:
1) Plan what you want to build:
Start with a blueprint for what you want to accomplish. (e.g.) I am looking for course readings to supplement my current text, or I want to build a series of knowledge checks that I will embed in Canvas as a student engagement strategy.
2) Track where you look for materials.
There is a LOT of OER content out there. And you may wonder if you have reviewed some materials before. So keep a log of where you have been looking so you don't duplicate your efforts. Also, if you are working with us, share where you have already looked so we can be more efficient in assisting you.
3) Mine your course description, competencies, and learning outcomes for search terms
Keep your course outline handy and note sections of the course that require supplementation. Think about how you intend to teach the class and the order in which you'll share information. Try to avoid simply following the table of contents for your current textbook as that can sometimes create a writer's block.
4) Think big picture and small details
Sounds contradictory, right? However, you may find it helpful to look at open courses or textbooks to find the specific info you want to remix. Similarly, you can identify various materials to fill any gaps by concentrating on your course outcomes and outline.
5) Evaluate and then incorporate, ensuring materials are disabled-accessible
Review this checklist before finalizing your selections. Also, review Universal Design for Learning (UDL) concerns with the CTLEE so that all your students can use your selected materials.
Open Educational Resources (OER) classes can significantly enhance affordability for students. Librarians can play a crucial role in helping college faculty create and implement these courses. Here's how:
1. Identifying OER Materials
Librarians can help faculty identify high-quality OER materials, including textbooks, articles, videos, and other instructional content. They are familiar with various repositories and databases where OER resources are available.
2. Evaluating OER Quality
Librarians can assist in evaluating the quality and relevance of OER materials. They can guide faculty in assessing the credibility, accuracy, and alignment of OER content with course objectives.
3. Copyright and Licensing Guidance
Understanding the different types of Creative Commons licenses and how to properly use and attribute OER materials is essential. Librarians can provide faculty with guidance on copyright and licensing issues, ensuring compliance and proper attribution.
4. Course Material Curation
Librarians can help faculty curate and organize OER materials into a cohesive course. This includes creating reading lists, compiling multimedia resources, and integrating OER content into the learning management system.
5. Customization and Adaptation
Many OER materials are designed to be adaptable. Librarians can work with faculty to customize and adapt OER content to better fit their specific course needs. This can involve modifying, remixing, and creating new content based on existing OER resources.
6. Instructional Design Support
Librarians can provide support in designing effective and engaging OER-based courses. This includes offering advice on best practices for online learning, interactive content, and student engagement strategies.
7. Technical Assistance
Librarians can offer technical support for integrating OER materials into digital platforms. This includes assistance with formatting, uploading, and troubleshooting issues related to the use of OER content.
8. Professional Development and Training
Librarians can organize workshops and training sessions for faculty on how to find, use, and create OER materials. This helps build faculty confidence and competence in adopting OER for their courses.
9. Collaboration and Networking
Librarians can facilitate collaboration between faculty members and connect them with OER communities and networks. This fosters the sharing of best practices, resources, and experiences in OER adoption.
10. Continuous Support and Updates
Librarians can provide ongoing support to ensure that OER materials remain current and relevant. This includes helping faculty stay updated with the latest OER developments and resources.