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OER and Other Zero-Cost Instructional Materials

Backwards Design

Backwards design is one option for course design.  Using this method, instructors determine course goals as the first step, and focus on student learning and understanding throughout the process.  This approach is particularly applicable when using open resources, since they can an be adapted to fit student needs. 

The 3 steps of backward design are:

  1. Develop outcomes
  2. Create assessments aligned with outcomes
  3. Determine content and scaffolding

infographic containing information on backwards design

Backward Design Model by Muhlenbuerg College.  This work is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0.

Consultation and Guidance

Waubonsee offers faculty support for redesigning courses, especially when doing so for student affordability concerns!  Contact the Office of Faculty Development & Engagement for more information.

Open Pedagogy

 If you are familiar with open educational resources, you may have heard the term "open pedagogy."  It is a learner-driven teaching approach that that utilizes open resources and engages students with renewable assignments rather than disposable ones.  With renewable assignments (per Wiley and Hilton):

  • The student creates an artifact
  • The artifact has value beyond supporting its creator's learning
  • The artifact is made public
  • The artifact is openly licensed

This new approach is worth exploring during the redesign process, but may require a big change to your teaching style.  Check out the following resources for more ideas about open pedagogy, and specific considerations for its use.

What is Open Pedagogy?

Introduction to Open Pedagogy

Open Pedagogy Notebook

Considerations for Using Open Pedagogy

Open Pedagogy Guiding Ideas. by SUNY OER Services. This work is licensed under CC BY 4.0.