The Vermont State College System (VSCS) is excited to announce an initiative aimed at lowering the cost of course materials for students in Science and Allied Health. This project seeks to address the financial burden on students by promoting the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) and other no-cost/low-cost options for course materials. By participating in this initiative, faculty members will have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and receive support in finding and adapting high-quality, free resources for their courses. This effort aligns with the VSCS mission to increase access to affordable, high-quality educational opportunities and to enhance student success and engagement.
We invite faculty members from the Community College of Vermont (CCV) and Vermont State University (VTSU) to express their interest in joining this project. Your participation will play a crucial role in making higher education more accessible and equitable for all students.
What will be expected of faculty participants?
- Attend a kick-off meeting
- Collaborate with liaison librarians and faculty peers
- Replace paid course materials with low-cost/no-cost materials
- Implement the low-cost/no-cost materials into one designated course in Fall 2025
- Distribute a student survey at the end of the course to gather feedback
Timeline:
Submit interest by April 1, 2025
Spring 2025: Kick off meeting
Summer 2025: Identify and evaluate potential OER materials
Fall 2025: Implement the materials
