Open educational resources (OER) are educational materials that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license. This permits them to be freely used, changed and shared with others. OER includes everything from images and videos to textbooks, lab activities and course curriculums.
5 Rs of OER
![Computer floppy disk icon.](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/2024-08/library_icon_oer_retain_1.png)
Retain
![Screwdriver and wrench icon.](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/2024-08/library_icon_oer_reuse_2.png)
Reuse
![Paper and pencil icon.](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/2024-08/library_icon_oer_revise_1.png)
Revise
![Lightbulb icon.](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/2024-08/library_icon_oer_remix.png)
Remix
![People in bubbles icon.](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/2024-08/library_icon_oer_redistribute_1.png)
Redistribute
Why choose OER
Affordability
Students that can’t afford their textbooks don’t buy them, and they are more likely to drop classes or not enroll in future classes. OER are free, high-quality resources that you use to help students learn and stay in class and college.
Equitability
Every student has access to their open textbook from day one of class. No delays due to shipping or financial aid. No one gets left behind based on their ability to buy a textbook.
Sustainability
OER can be updated frequently and customized without the need to print new editions and waste paper resources. Access is instantaneous and results in zero emissions from shipping copies around the world.
Why create OER
Creating an open educational resource not only provides your students with high-quality learning content, but it helps students everywhere. Developing resources with this level of reach and impact can be a valuable addition to your professional profile.
![Image](https://files.wmich.edu/s3fs-public/styles/3_2/public/images/u1734/2024/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_3.jpg?h=deaec4b9&itok=INuQmDgD)