University of Houston Libraries

Open educational resources (OER) are teaching and learning resources in the public domain or that have been licensed in such a way that allows anyone to freely use and re-purpose them.

OER are any tools or materials used to support learning, including full courses, course materials, modules, textbooks, lesson plans, streaming videos, tests, etc.

• Affordability: OER can be used to lower costs of class materials for students
• Customizable: Adapt, update, or correct materials as needed to suit your class needs
• Academic Freedom: Choose from a variety of learning objects, materials, and technologies based on your specific course objectives
• Inclusivity: Incorporate interdisciplinary perspectives that might not be offered by a traditional textbook
• Collaboration: Work with colleagues around the globe on creation, adaptation, and use of OER

Adapted from What are Open Educational Resources (OER)? by Texas A&M Corpus Christi.

• Schedule an individual consultation
• Request a customized presentation or workshop
• Sign up for the OER listserv for information on OER incentive programs, upcoming events, and OER news and updates

Recommended Resources

OER and Alternative Textbook Handbook – Provides instructors with an introduction to the use and creation of OER. The text is broken into five sections: Getting Started, Copyright, Finding OER, Teaching with OER, and Creating OER.

Texas Learn OER – A series of self-paced online learning modules, including an introduction to OER, and opportunities for further exploration and discovery of open education practices.