3.0 Introduction to the Role of Libraries

Learning Objectives

In this module, we'll start to:

• Identify major OER producers and commonly used repositories, referatories, and search tools.
• Describe the challenges and opportunities in curating and locating OER.
• Identify OER communities of practice.
• Explain the concepts of “openwashing,” “openwrapping,” and “fauxpen.”
• Describe affordability solutions offered by commercial publishers.
• Recognize common publishing platforms, roles, funding sources, and workflows for OER publishing in libraries.
  
  

Why This Module Is Important

Librarianship aligns well with the values and mission of the open education community. This module explores how your training and skills as a librarian can be put to use in promoting and creating OER at your institution. Some of the issues and opportunities of open education are uniquely suited to librarians' searching, curation, and community-building skills. Librarians’ knowledge of commercial publishers and the publishing process is also valuable.

How This Fits Into the Larger Picture

While all of the modules in the certificate are relevant to librarians, this one specifically explores the searching, community-building, and metadata skills (as well as publishing expertise) that librarians bring to the table. Moving beyond the "what" and "why" of open education, in this module we start to explore the "how." 

What's Due for This Module

• Read sections 3.1–3.4 by Friday, March 31
• Discuss
  • Initial discussion post due Friday, March 31 (11:59 pm local time)
  • Response post due Sunday, April 2 (11:59 pm local time)
• Action Plan Activity due Sunday, April 2 (11:59 pm local time)