Computer Science Course eTextbook Initiative at a Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Abstract

Much of the literature has been focused on printed textbooks versus eTextbooks. Other studies have examined the concerns with the high cost of textbooks. Only a minimum amount of literature has discussed how eTextbooks can play an important role for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, (STEM) student who attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in ensuring both cost reduction and to improve student success. This paper details the authors’ experience with the development and delivery of an eTextbook. The cost reduction and suggestions are made for how instructors can use these benefits to assist first time generation students and non-traditional students who have challenges with purchasing their textbooks due to the increase of cost of printed textbooks. Readers will become familiar with the eBook project and why it was designed with students being the number one priority.