Material Detail

This open textbook is being utilized in a geology course for undergraduate or graduate students by Dr. Rezaie Boroon at Cal State LA. The open textbook provides in-depth coverage of key topics in urban geology, including geological hazards, groundwater contamination, urban land use planning, and more. Instructor supplemental material includes test bank, PowerPoint slides, teaching notes etc.  The main motivation to adopt an open textbook was to increase accessibility and reduce financial burden for students. By choosing an open textbook, the aim was to provide all students with free and immediate access to the required course materials. The cost of traditional textbooks can be a significant barrier to education for many students, and the adoption of an open textbook aligns with the goal of promoting equity and inclusivity in education. Most student access the open textbook in digital format, primarily through the OpenStax CNX platform. The textbook (or course material) is available online for students to read directly on the platform, download as a PDF, or view in an ePub format. This digital access ensures that students can easily read the textbook on their computers, laptops, tablets, or smartphones, providing flexibility and convenience in their learning experience. Additionally, the interactive features on the platform, such as zoomable figures and resizable text, enhance the readability and engagement of the textbook for students across various devices and settings.