PDA Event: Open Education vs Inclusive / Equitable Access: Cage Match vs Co-Existence?

As higher ed administrators consider inclusive and equitable access programs proposed by bookstores and publishers, many in the Open Education community argue they present an existential threat to the OER movement. These models claim to lower textbook costs by negotiating discounts and then charging all students for time-limited access to course materials. Questions remain about the transparency of these programs, how they affect faculty choice, how they limit access after courses conclude, and what will be their long-term impact on textbook affordability and accessibility. While some worry these initiatives erode interest in open education, others argue this is an ideal moment to demonstrate compelling benefits of OER these models do not match: empowering student agency, increasing cultural relevance, ensuring lifelong access, and more. 

This participatory “fishbowl” session invites dialogue and recommendations on how to approach these programs with foresight, pragmatism, and creativity.

Panelists:
Brittany Dudek, Director, Library and OER Services, Colorado Community College System
Michael Mills, Vice President, Montgomery College
Kevin Corcoran, Assistant Vice Provost, University of Central Florida
Zach Claybaugh, Access & Reference Services Librarian, Dominican University

Register to attend

Hosted by PASCAL