Open Books about Creating OER
Recommended Tools
- Google DocsGoogle's word processing software is cloud-based and collaborative.
- PressbooksPressbooks is free to use, with Pressbooks watermarks in EPUB, MOBI and PDF exports. Upgraded versions are available for purchase, which removes the watermarks.
- OER Commons Open AuthorBuild and share content from scratch, or import text from Google Docs, embed media, and upload links. Tutorials available from link.
- OERPUBOpen-source tools that allows users to create content from scratch or convert existing documents.
- Open Textbook ToolkitCreated by the University of Toronto, this toolkit is designed to support faculty who would like to develop an open textbook. Key sections include information on stakeholders, technology, copyright, accessibility, and general production and classroom use.
Review
Before you license and share your work, we strongly encourage a review process by both peers and students.
- Ensure the item is accessible. The Accessibility Toolkit from BC Campus is an excellent guide.
- Have the item reviewed by colleagues and other instructors teaching similar content in their classes. Are there gaps in the material? Are the examples relevant? Would they consider using the material in their own classes?
- Have the item reviewed by students. Students will have a unique perspective on the material and their feedback can be very valuable. Do they find the language unclear? Do the visuals convey the message you intend? Are there parts of the work they find not useful?
License
License
A Creative Commons License helps you to legally share your ideas and creations with others and enable them to build upon and make creative use of those items. The CC license is a standardized way to give the public permission to share and use your creative work.
- Creative Commons LicensesLearn more about the 6 different types of CC licenses.
- CC License ChooserAnswer a few simple questions to choose the right license for your work.
Share
In addition to sharing your content with your students and campus community, you might consider adding it to a repository.
- OER CommonsA teaching and learning network offering a broad selection of high-quality Open Educational Resources, that are freely available online to use and, in most cases, to adapt to support individualized teaching and learning practices.
- Open Textbook LibraryA growing catalog of free, peer-reviewed, and openly-licensed textbooks covering a wide range of subjects. Supported by the Open Textbook Network.
To be on the list, the books must be used by author's institution and by at least one other institution.
