OER Textbooks: A Helpful Tool for DEI Initiatives in Higher Education

Abstract

This is a policy paper that discusses the contributions of open educational resource (OER) textbooks to the success of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in institutions of higher education. DEI is often identified by universities as an institutional goal; however, it is usually addressed at the institutional level by large scale university initiatives and programs. The question addressed herein is how can faculty contribute on an individual level to the success of higher education DEI goals? One very practical tool that can help is the use of (OER) textbooks at the individual course level. Expanding student access to educational resources has the potential to make a significant contribution to the success of diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.