Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a textbook open?
A textbook becomes "open" when its copyright-holder grants usage rights to the public through an "open license," which typically includes the right to access, reformat, and customize it at no additional cost.
What do open textbooks look like?
Hard copies of open textbooks look much like traditional texts. The primary differences are that open textbooks are also accessible online at no cost and the hard copies are optional and affordably priced.
How many open textbooks are there?
Thousands of open textbooks already exist and more are on the way.
(Some text in this guide has been provided by the oer consortium and Erik Christensen.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays open textbook authors?
Open publishing models are still evolving, so author payment varies. Some are paid royalties on print sales, some receive grant support, and others choose to write on their own time.
Are open textbooks high quality?
Many open textbooks are developed through traditional peer review, others are vetted by experts. As with any textbook, you are the final judge of whether an open textbook meets the needs of your course.
What do open textbooks look like?
Open textbooks are similar to traditional texts, but much more flexible. If desired, you can create a custom version by editing it yourself to match your classroom instruction. They are available in both print and digital formats:
- Online, at no cost.
- Downloadable PDF, at no cost.
- Print-on-Demand, typically for $20-$40.
Authoring & Modifying Open Textbooks
- 6 Steps to Modifying an Open TextbookOnce you have made the decision to adopt an open textbook, you may wish to modify or adapt that textbook to fit your specific needs. BC Campus.
- BC Campus Open Education Self-Publishing GuideThe BCcampus Open Education Self-Publishing Guide is a reference for individuals or groups wanting to write and self-publish an open textbook. This guide provides details on the preparation, planning, writing, publication, and maintenance of an open textbook.
Authoring Open Textbooks by This guide is for faculty authors, librarians, project managers and others who are involved in the production of open textbooks in higher education and K-12. Content includes a checklist for getting started, publishing program case studies, textbook organization and elements, writing resources and an overview of useful tools.
A Guide to Making Open Textbooks with Students by A handbook for faculty interested in practicing open pedagogy by involving students in the making of open textbooks, ancillary materials, or other Open Educational Resources.
Modifying an Open Textbook: What You Need to Know by This is a five-step guide for faculty, and those who support faculty, who want to modify an open textbook. Step-by-step instructions for importing and editing common open textbook file and platform types are included.