3.1: Evaluating OERs
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Overview
When evaluating Open Educational Resources (OERs) for use in a course, educators should consider several factors to ensure that the selected materials meet the educational needs of their students. The biggest draw to OER is cost savings to students, but beyond that a professor needs to evaluate other factors to ensure the resource is of a quality that can be maintained. Remember, there are 5Rs when it comes to OER, and when selecting an OER, perhaps consider the areas it lacks and where you might be able to contribute to it to improve not only its usability but its functionality. Authors can and should strive to make their OER better than a book!
Key Considerations
When evaluating potential OERs, it is important to assess the accuracy and reliability of the content. Look for resources that are well-researched, up-to-date, and aligned with the course objectives. Ensure that the OER aligns with the pedagogical approach, teaching style preferred by the educator, and expected learning outcomes. Check if the OER is accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. Ensure that the content is available in formats that accommodate different learning preferences and needs.
Having reviewed several OER rubrics and OER evaluation guides, the following key considerations include all of the common areas to consider as well as some things we believe are important related to interactivity.
- Relevancy : appropriate perspective, coverage, outcomes, target audience
- Currency : content and platform; long-term sustainability of the OER; likelihood it will remain available and supported over the duration of the course
- License : can be reused, remixed, or adapted; format easily allows for transfer, download, editing
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Accessibility
- alternate formats, bandwidth
- media captions
- UDL formatting
- Bias : creator, discipline, host, cultural relevance
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Creator
- credibility, reputation
- knowledge, authenticity
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OER Host
- credibility, reputation
- peer review methods, ratings, recommendations from other educators
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Quality
- accuracy, clarity, consistency
- formatting, grammar, spelling, links
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Interactivity and Media
- active learning options
- audio, video
- media elements or interactive features that enhance engagement and understanding
Additional Resources
Examples of rubrics for evaluating OER:
- Iowa State LibGuide
- OER Selection Criteria (Affordable Learning Georgia)
- Open Textbook Network Review Rubric - used in the Open Textbook Network's Library, developed by BCcampus
- Faculty Guide for Evaluating OER [pdf] - developed by BCCampus OpenEd Resources (BCOER)
- Achieve's Rubrics for Evaluating OER [pdf]
By carefully considering these factors, professors can make informed decisions when selecting OERs for their courses. Regularly updating and reviewing the chosen resources can also help ensure that the content remains relevant and effective for students.