Searching for Open Educational Resources (OER)

Open Educational Resources (OER) are “teaching, learning and research materials in any medium – digital or otherwise ... that permits no-cost access, use, adaptation and redistribution” (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). OERs include a wide range of materials: assessments, assignments, books, case studies, courses, journals, primary sources, reference materials, simulations, tutorials, tests, and textbooks. 

Open Educational Resources (OER) are available across the web from general search engines like Google, to media platforms such as YouTube, and specialized educational sites like MERLOT. The Searching for Open Educational Resources (OER) Guide highlights websites organized by material type (Books, Courses, Media). For a broad overview or to explore a wide range of resources, start with the OER Collections.

Not all online materials qualify as Open Educational Resources (OER) that you can revise or upload directly into your learning management system. Before using any resource in your course, it is important to review its permissions and licensing terms. Many resources include a Creative Commons license, which clearly explains how the material may be used, shared, or adapted. If no Creative Commons license or other usage permissions are stated, you should link to the material rather than upload it, or determine whether your intended use falls under Fair Use. 

Banner image is available under a Pixabay Content License.