"Open Educational Resources (OERs) are any type of educational materials that are in the public domain or introduced with an open license. The nature of these open materials means that anyone can legally and freely copy, use, adapt and re-share them. OERs range from textbooks to curricula, syllabi, lecture notes, assignments, tests, projects, audio, video and animation" (UNESCO).
Typically, a Creative Commons license tells instructors and students what they can do with the material without seeking additional permission from the copyright holder, as permission has already been given. This lets users download, share, and sometimes remix or edit content without having to pay a fee. Learn how this works under "What are open textbooks?"
UT students are saving $816,600 this year thanks to open textbooks and OER!
How are open textbooks different from textbooks in the Inclusive Access program?
UT is a member of the Open Textbook Network. What does that mean?
Answer: The Libraries joined the OTN on behalf of the university in 2016, helping us work with other member institutions (such as NC State and Virginia Tech) to support the adoption and creation of open textbooks.
What if I've adopted an open textbook?
Answer: If you've adopted an open textbook, tell us using this form. The data will help us build and improve campus resources that support open education. The information will be shared with the Student Government Association, too.
Who has received the SGA Open Education Award?
The Open Textbook/OER Grant Program is currently accepting proposals until March 20, 2020. General information about the recipients and funded projects of previous recipients is available.
Workshops on open educational resources, including open textbooks, are offered by the Office of Information Technology as well as the University Libraries. Check UT's workshop registration system for upcoming workshops.
General information on licensing, copyright, and open textbooks may be directed to Rachel Caldwell in the Scholars' Collaborative, part of the University Libraries.
For additional information, please contact any member of UT's Open Education Working Group: