Zero Textbook Cost Initiative overview
The Zero Textbook Cost Initiative supports instructors in their efforts to adopt and create zero-cost course materials. Faculty are provided with a stipend up to $1,000 to:
- Review an open-access textbook
- Adopt zero-cost course readings
- Adopt and adapt zero-cost resources for their courses
Priority will be given to those teaching in general education courses and/or multi-section courses.
The initiative is separated into three levels:
Incentive type: OER Review only
Support stipend: $200
Stipend requirements: An instructor finds and reviews an OER for the Open Textbook Library (OTL).
Time commitment and support: Applicants should expect to spend around 3 hours searching for and writing a review to be posted via the OTL.
Incentive type: Zero Cost adoption
Support stipend: $500
Stipend requirements: An instructor or group of instructors adopts existing zero-cost materials that require little to no modification of the course design.
Time commitment and support: Applicants should expect to spend at least five hours modifying their course at this level. The Zero Cost program team is able to provide assistance where possible.
Incentive type: Zero Cost adoption & adaptation
Support stipend: $1000
Stipend requirements: An instructor or a group of instructors adopts existing zero-cost materials that require revision and course redesign.
Time commitment and support: Applicants should expect to spend at least 20 hours modifying their course at this level. Applicants will meet with the Zero Cost program team at least once to discuss progress and troubleshoot issues.
What materials count toward zero-cost adoptions?
Adopting no-cost materials can take on various forms and/or be a combination of these forms:
- Open educational resources—open textbooks.
- Open educational or freely available resources--non-textbooks (copyrighted materials do not apply).
- Library licensed content—eBooks, articles, streaming video, or other.
- A combination of these.
Eligibility
The program is open to all faculty members at IU 51ÁÔÆæ.
Project timeline
The project timeline can be TBD.
Evaluation criteria
Applications will be evaluated using the following criteria:
- Completeness of the application and level of interest in the program.
- General education courses and/or multi-section courses will be given priority.
- Potential student savings and the cost of existing materials.
Questions?
Reach out to us by email at libhelp@iu.edu with any questions about the Zero Textbook Cost Initiative.