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OER: Adopt, Adapt, Create: Find & Adopt

Adopt

 

 

Adopting an OER is probably the first step in incorporating open resources into your classroom. Finding and evaluating are the crucial first steps in the process. CCAC has developed a collection of repositories and sources by discipline that might be useful in your investigation.

If you can't find a resource that meets your needs, consider Adapting & Remixing.

As you start your OER search it is a good idea to be organized and keep the suggestions below in mind.

Where to Start

Where to Start?

Finding and adopting OER is much like finding conventional educational resources. The best way to begin is to set aside some time to review course learning objectives. Keep these objectives in mind while reviewing open resources and search for items that closely align with learning goals, just as you would a conventional textbook.


Types of Resources

The next step in finding OER is to decide what type of resource you would like to find. If you are looking for a textbook, try one of the textbook repositories. The repositories contain free textbooks, most peer-reviewed or used at higher education institutes, which are available for download and use. There are also a variety of other materials available in the general repositories, including homework, labs, question banks, tests, quizzes, and more. Additionally, the Butler Libraries has a wealth of databases and e-books that are available for use.

As with conventional resources, it helps to be flexible and let the learning objectives drive the search, as opposed to the type of resource.


Consider the Formats

Upon selecting an Open Educational Resource, check to make sure that it is accessible to all students. OER are available and can be presented in a number of different formats, including print and digital, allowing students of all abilities and learning styles access.


Ask For Help!

Searching for Open Educational Resources does not need to be overwhelming. Butler Libraries has an entire team of people ready to help from searching to implementing OER. Contact any member of the team and we will be glad to help!