5.0 Introduction to Making It Real

Learning Objectives

In this unit, you'll:

  • Identify and evaluate existing impact measurement strategies for systematically tracking and reporting OER program data that are relevant to your own efforts.
  • Discuss the shared vision for your OER program with your dean/director and/or immediate supervisor.
  • Prepare a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of your institution's OER situation. You'll bring this SWOT with you when we meet in Minneapolis. It will become part of your action plan.

Why This Unit Is Important

As you develop your action plan, it's important to make sure that your vision for the OER program aligns with your leadership's. By interviewing your dean/director and/or supervisor, you'll ensure that you have a common understanding of program goals, strategic priorities, and available resources. This information will be added to other background research about your local situation, helping you analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that may impact your OER program. This is the last unit before our face-to-face sessions in Minneapolis!

How This Fits Into the Larger Picture

There’s no one-size-fits-all OER solution. You’ll need to identify your institution’s unique needs, challenges, and opportunities. 

What's Due This Week

  • Read sections 5.1–5.2 by Friday, April 3
  • Discuss
    • Initial discussion post due Friday, April 3 (11:59 pm local time)
    • Response post due Sunday, April 5 (11:59 pm local time)
  • Action Plan Activity: Meet with Leadership due Friday, April 3 (11:59 pm local time)
  • Action Plan Activity: SWOT Analysis due Sunday, April 5 (11:59 pm local time)