Learning Objectives

In this module, we'll start to:

Summarize the history, principles, and goals of open education.
Define open educational resources (OER) and explain the functions of the 5R’s.
Differentiate free content from OER.
Describe how copyright, the public domain, and fair use intersect with OER.
Explain how Creative Commons (CC) licenses facilitate the 5R's model that makes a work open.
Describe and apply the specific licenses available through Creative Commons.

Why This Module Is Important

This module sets the groundwork for the online portion of the Certificate in Open Education Librarianship. In order to thoughtfully discuss open education and assist others in the use, adaptation, and creation of OER, we must gain an understanding of the history, principles, and goals of open education, as well as the specific characteristics of OER.

Creative Commons licenses are the most frequently used license in the global open education movement, and are fundamental to designating what users are allowed to do with a specific open educational resource. They are built to operate alongside copyright law, which is a nebulous area that many educators and librarians may not be confident in navigating. Open education leaders/librarians will likely find themselves in the role of "Creative Commons licensing expert" and will need to explain to others the various CC licenses and how they can be used and applied.

How This Fits Into the Larger Picture

Your knowledge of the “roots” of open education and its foundational principles will assist you in informing others, supporting faculty, and developing buy-in for a program at your institution. Understanding the definition of OER and the characteristics that distinguish them from other "free" resources will prepare you to advocate for the adoption, adaptation, and creation of OER at your institution.

What's Due for This Module

Read sections 1.1–1.4 by Friday, February 28
Discuss
- Initial discussion post due Friday, February 28 (11:59 pm local time)
- Response post due Sunday, March 2 (11:59 pm local time)
Action Plan Activity due Sunday, March 2 (11:59 pm local time)