Abstract

The cost of expensive commercial textbooks is a growing barrier to students’ ability to succeed. From 2006 to 2016, the cost of textbooks increased by 88 percent, more than than nearly any other college student expense. As a result, many institutions are turning to open educational resources (OER).

This presentation will begin with Elizabeth Spica, Director of Teaching & Learning with Lumen Learning, sharing the foundational basics of Open Educational resources -- what it is, how to find and use it, and how effective implementation can improve student success. Kendra Minor (UA Huntsville) will share some key considerations suggest a timeline for transitioning a course to OER, and walk through some quick and easy resources faculty can use to get started. 

• If your topic refers to an idea developed at your school or within your academic field, please explain how the strategies you're recommending will transfer and apply to faculty in other institutions or fields.
• List the ways you will engage your audience beyond Q&A

Presenters

Kendra Minor, UAH

Elizabeth Spica, Lumen Learning, Director of Teaching & Learning
Elizabeth Spica is Director of Teaching & Learning with Lumen Learning, where she helps faculty incorporate open resources and pedagogies that enhance learning and increase student success. She holds an M.A. in German and Applied Linguistics and an M.S. in Teacher Education from The University of Tennessee. Prior to Lumen, Elizabeth held roles in educational publishing and taught language courses at Maryville College and The University of Tennessee, where she also provided leadership for student success courses and initiatives. An advocate for mind-body wellness, Elizabeth is also a certified Pilates instructor (PMA-CPT) and enjoys outdoor activities in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and their 13-year old son.