Last Updated: 07 Jan, 2025     Views: 40

Studies show that students who use open educational resources (OERs) do as well, and often better, than their peers using traditional resources. Also, many OERs are developed through rigorous peer review and production processes that mirror traditional materials. However, it is important to note that being open or closed does not inherently affect the quality of a resource. Being open enables educators to use the resource more effectively, which can lead to better outcomes. For example, OERs can be updated, tailored and improved locally to fit the needs of students, and it also eliminates cost as a barrier for students to access their materials.

Quality checklist

Licensing
  • Creative Commons licence supports your intended use
  • Resource is in the public domain
Authority
  • The creator is identified and is reputable
  • Resource is peer-reviewed
Currency
  • Content appears to be current
  • Content shows when it was last updated
  • Content doesn't have lots of broken links
  • Updates will be easy to make
Utility
  • Content meets your needs
  • Text is clear and logical
  • Content is pitched at a suitable level
Accuracy
  • The content fits with what you already know
  • The content doesn't contain contradictions, gaps or '"fake news"
  • Resource is referenced
Bias
  • Content is accurate, error-free and unbiased
  • The purpose of the resource is clear
  • The resource doesn't contain dramatic claims
Accessibility  

 

OERs are a potential solution for minimising student textbook costs.

Find OERs to support your teaching or learning, or contact your Liaison Librarian to discuss available options.

This FAQ is a derivative of Frequently Asked Questions by Nicole Allen (SPARC) used and licensed under CC BY 4.0 by Claire Ovaska

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