From Proprietary Textbook to Custom OER Solution: Using Learner Feedback to Guide Design and Development

Abstract

This study presents the initial needs analysis and formative evaluation of the beta version of an open educational resource (OER) textbook solution. The OER textbook, created by the authors, replaces a proprietary, paper-based textbook and is delivered to students digitally, within a learning management system. Needs analysis findings show that students are concerned about cost and convenience, and are likely to seek course content online before reading material in a traditional course textbook. Many do not purchase assigned textbooks at all. Students also want mobile access to course readings, and for those readings to be brief and targeted, covering just the necessary content for completing coursework. Students provided positive feedback on the OER textbook, indicating that it helped them meet course learning objectives. The online integration of reading and other content materials within the LMS encouraged use. Students reported higher rates of access and appreciation that the course textbook was free. These findings suggest that instructors should consider the cost, format, length, and relevance of assigned readings in courses, whether they are ready to adopt, adapt or create open digital textbooks or continue to use proprietary, paperbased ones. Keywords: instructional design, needs analysis, online textbook, open educational resources Dennen, V.P., & Bagdy, L.M. (2019). From proprietary textbook to custom OER solution: Using learner feedback to guide design and development.

The Effects of E-Learning on Students’ Motivation to Learn in Higher Education

“…Among the prominent activities provided by learning management systems are e-teaching materials, which can be presented in different formats. Eteaching materials in the form of open educational resource (OER) textbooks are discussed by Dennen and Bagdy (2019). Their study indicated that students have given positive feedback on OER textbooks and that this type of material contributed to helping them meet course learning objectives.…”

Using Open Educational Resources at Viterbo University: Faculty and Student Feedback

“…When multiple resources were utilized, there was a related increase in the amount of time it took to prepare the materials for the course. Similar to the experiences at other universities (Dennen & Bagdy, 2019;Dudek et al, 2019;McGreal, 2019), faculty spent time authoring transitional content, developing practice problem sets and case studies, and writing quiz or exam questions and answer keys, as these are typically included in the instructor resources from many commercial textbook publishers. They also spent time preparing tutorial videos that would demonstrate problem or case study solutions.…”