This is Open Access month at JCU, and we’re shining a spotlight on choosing published Open Educational Resources (OERs) - free, high-quality learning materials that can be used instead of expensive textbooks.
More and more
JCU teaching staff are embracing OERs, and it’s making a real difference for
their students.
What are JCU students saying?
Students are
telling us loud and clear how much they appreciate zero-cost textbook options:
"I could not afford any textbooks so it was amazing having free resources. I would not have been able to get as much out of my course without this service and I REALLY appreciate it."
"It’s great—having free reading resources is amazing and shows the lecturers’ dedication to students. It also helps us understand what’s relevant from a JCU perspective, rather than a random textbook."
"High quality free e-textbooks = less stress 😊"
"It was very helpful. Paying for all PPR requirements (criminal health check, blue card, etc.) is already expensive. I really wish all textbooks were free - I couldn’t afford the others."
Benefits that speak for themselves
For students, switching
to OERs isn’t just about saving money (though that’s a big win) - it also means
easier access to their learning materials, more inclusive content, and the
freedom to learn anytime, anywhere, without being tied to a costly textbook.
Want to explore OERs for your subjects?
Choosing
already published OERs is easier than you might think. It’s just like identifying
and evaluating a prescribed textbook from an academic publisher.
Start by
checking out the JCU Library’s OER Discovery Collections, organised by discipline. You might be
surprised by what’s already available!
Need a hand?
Reach out to your Liaison Librarian - we’re happy to help you locate
already published OERs that could work for your subject needs.
Comments