Open Educational Resources

Affordability

 From January 2000 to June 2022, college textbook prices increased by 162%, compared to an overall inflation rate of 74.4%. 

Florida Virtual Campus surveyed students in 2016, 2018, and 2022. The 2022 survey results reflect the following student responses to high textbook costs:

• do not purchase a required textbook (53%)
• take fewer courses (44%)
• do not register for a specific course (38%)

Responses by SVCC students to a similar question in the 2023 Illinois Course Materials Survey: Student Perspective reflect the following:

• do not purchase required course materials (30%)
• take fewer courses (31%)
• do not register for a specific course (15%)

Access

Lack of first-day access to course materials is a common source of frustration for students and faculty alike. Open Educational Resources are available for perpetual use, before the class even begins and after it ends. First-day access is also an advantage of so-called Equitable Access and Inclusive Access models offered by for-profit companies. However access to those digital course platforms is not free and ends after the lease period.

Academic Success

A 2018 study by the University of Georgia showed improved student outcomes in courses where Open Educational Resources are used. An evaluation of academic performance data for two groups of students (one group in courses using commercial textbooks and the other group in courses using OER textbooks) over six years found the following:

• DFW rates fell for all student populations in courses that adopted OER
• grades improved for all student populations in courses that adopted OER
• the results were most significant for Pell-eligible, non-White, and part-time students

Achieving the Dream found that Community college students enrolled in OER courses earned more credits and earned grades similar to those of  students not enrolled in OER courses. They also reported high engagement with course materials.