Skip to Main Content

OER and Other Zero-Cost Instructional Materials

Introduction

Now that you've found and evaluated zero cost materials appropriate to your learning objectives, it's time to integrate the text into your redesigned course. 

Obtaining Print Versions

Low-cost printing is an option for open textbooks. Physical copies of course materials are sometimes preferred by both students and instructors.  There are many reasons why your students might want to access an OER in print, even at a price. A few of these are listed below:

  • Students who do not own a laptop might want to have a print copy of their text for use in the classroom.
  • Some students have issues with eye strain when reading on computer screens.
  • Some students find it easier to retain information from print texts.
  • Some students (and instructors!) prefer having physical manuals for use in labs.

Although not all students will want to purchase your materials in print, having the option available might be a worthwhile endeavor for your course.

Options for obtaining print versions:

One option for accessing OER in print is to purchase publisher-produced copies. For example, OpenStax provides bulk printing through textbook providers that contract with university bookstores. Campus bookstores can order copies of OpenStax textbooks and other OER which have print copies available for sale.

Even if the publisher of your chosen OER does not sell physical copies of their resource, you can commission copies through third-party platforms such as Lulu.com or Amazon.

If the OER you want isn’t available to purchase in print and you don’t want to commission print copies on a third-party platform, you can also consider printing copies on campus.  If your institution has a printing services center, you could work with them and your bookstore to identify a usable and cost-effective print option.  Students can also print portions of the book on campus or print the full text if they choose, at a store like Staples.

Suggested Readings