OER - Open Educational Resources

Step 1- Align

Before you search for OERs, you need to ensure that the content you’re seeking aligns with your course and program outcomes. Rather than just trying to find the flashiest content, you should focus on locating content that will help your students master the learning objectives your course has set out.

Step 2 -Search

 it’s time to search for appropriate OERs. But with so much free content online to sift through, how do you know how to find content with an open license that you are permitted to use in your class? We recommend the following strategies.

• Repositories 

          Start your OER search with an online repository. Because repositories collect and compile a variety of resources on specific topics, they tend to be a one-stop shop. When using repositories, be sure to use the advanced search features to specify that you want open resources, to help you find specific resources. See the list of repositories on this page. or check out this link.  You can also search Open Massachusetts , the state's repository. 

The Mason OER Metafinder helps you find Open Educational Resources. Click here for more information on the scope of their search 

• Search Engines

        If repositories don’t provide the materials you need, you can also try using a general search engine with advanced filters. For example,  a Google Advanced Search offers options for searching materials with certain usage rights. With these filters, you can tailor your results, for example, to show only materials that are free to use, share, or modify

• Library Collections

          Although the materials in your school's library may not technically be OERs (insofar as the library is paying someone for access to them), library collections are typically free for faculty members and students to access because the library has already purchased access to this digital content. Libraries give you access to databases, journals, and catalogues that you can use to build your course without additional costs to students. You may not be able to upload the material to your course directly, but you can always provide links that students can access, provided that they're familiar with how to gain access to library materials remotely.

Need Help? No problem! Contact your Library Liaisons or additional help.