2024 Open Education Conference

Historically, the development of open learning resources has been based on creating a library of static open learning resources (SOLR) that can be discovered, adapted and applied in a learning environment. This approach has suffered from numerous well-documented weaknesses: out-of-date content, obsolete technology, discoverability, context-sensitivity, localization and accessibility, up-front cost and storage overhead, and a general failure to adapt and reuse the learning materials. With the recent development of broadly effective generative artificial intelligence (GAI) this has led some to suggest that open learning resources can and should be developed at the time and point of need. The GAI could address each of the issues with SOLR by addressing it based on the learning need at the time of that need, as described by the specific prompt and the context of application. This presentation will provide an overview of the technology required to support such an approach.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• Identify weaknesses in static open learning resources (SOLR)
• Create dynamic open learning resources using GAI
• Identify and address issues related to the use of GAI in open learning

In this session we will consider the unique ways in which OER can support and drive workforce credentialing programs. We will discuss OER’s adaptability and flexibility in relation to localization and customization, and also showcase the ways in which OER can be continuously improved and updated to meet changing learner and industry needs. We will focus on two exemplar categories of OER in workforce programs: (1) Durable, multi-industry skills that support student achievement; (2) industry-specific competencies required for certification and/or degrees in technical and similar fields. Finally, we will discuss practical ways that institutions, governments, industry entities, and OER producers can collaborate to create relevant and equity-centered programs accessible to all.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• Develop knowledge related to microcredentials and workforce development.
• Align the 5Rs and other OER characteristics with microcredential and workforce needs.
• Evaluate workforce development opportunities (e.g. programs or grants) to determine if an OER solution or proposal will meet the intended outcomes.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for industry-institutional collaboration.
• Plan and implement productive project structures and approaches to incorporate OER into workforce development programs.

In this session, attendees will engage in dialogue about the fundamental challenges encountered in collaborative OER development. We'll delve into a faculty member's experience using open pedagogy to guide a student through undergraduate research, resulting in a remixed OER textbook for Animal Physiology. We will describe how faculty's expertise, the student's perspective, and foundational support of an OER Librarian converge to create a multi-pronged approach to course transformation, integrating adoption, adaptation, and creation of course materials. Additionally, we'll discuss barriers students face in OER involvement, reasons to involve students as OER project partners, strategies for student funding and training, and mutual benefits for faculty-student collaboration in educational development.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• Recognize the essential components of successful collaborative OER projects, including faculty expertise, student perspective, and OER principles.
• Evaluate barriers faced by students in OER involvement, including creation, adaptation, and adoption.
• Develop strategies for gauging student readiness for OER projects.
• Navigate the complexity and scope of collaborative OER initiatives.

Background: Open education resources (OER) textbooks can benefit courses, but are often unavailable for niche topics. Creation of novel OER is worthwhile but may require more effort than is feasible for a professor. Methods: We describe a novel process for engaging undergraduates (UG) in OER creation, including the strategy, roles, instructions, and potential impact of this experiential learning project. Results: Currently, 16 UG are collaborating on 7 chapters, using 7 SOPs covering source curation, citation, hyperlinks, content writing, and auditing. A modular database facilitates task sign up and monitoring. Discussion: Our approach is effective and can be refined to further serve our team and others. Engaging UG in OER creation is symbiotic and fosters future OER leaders by increasing awareness and skill-building.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• Describe obstacles to finding OER for some academic courses.
• Discuss the substantial effort needed to create novel OER.
• Apply novel process for involving UG in OER textbook creation, including relevant organizational systems.
• Create accessible OER textbook using SOPs and monitoring systems to guide the team in strategic content writing, editing, image creation, and attributions.
• Evaluate effectiveness of OER textbook processes utilized by our team.

This breakout session makes space to connect and share with other participants about the past, present, and future—in keeping with this year's theme "It's About Time." After a short introduction, attendees will be broken out into Zoom breakout groups of 6-8 people. Each person will have 5 minutes to share their personal story related to open education in response to the following question:

What brought you to work on open education, what are you doing now, and where is your work headed in the future? 

Each group should appoint a timekeeper to time the 5 minutes to ensure everyone gets a turn. Breakout groups will be assigned randomly providing a chance to meet new people!

Digital Promise worked closely with community members to co-design and develop OER professional development and classroom resources for engaging secondary students in racial equity and social justice discourse. Now, these OER materials are being scaled to three districts through a cohort model in conjunction with Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to support implementation. The resources are designed to increase cultural competency, community-school connections, and feelings of belonging. This session will focus on learnings from scaling the OER materials. The presenters will share what they have learned about the supporting factors needed to use these materials and facilitate conversations around racial equity. Educators will walk away with a deeper understanding of the OER resources and the support needed to increase the adoptability and scalability of the resources in secondary schools.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the OER material “Socratic Circles to Engage in Racial Equity Discourse” and understand the support needed to implement this resource.
• Identify the conditions that support the facilitation and implementation of OER materials in a K-12 setting.
• Identify the ways they can implement this OER resource in their educational setting.

In the contemporary digital landscape, the integration of Artificial Intelligence with Open Educational Resources is catalyzing a revolution in K-12 education. This session will delve into how AI enhances the educational experience by providing personalized learning pathways that enhance learning outcomes for students. AI's capability to analyze vast datasets allows for the optimization of learning resources, ensuring that they meet the unique needs of each student. The presentation will not only highlight current trends and practical applications but will also engage with the future possibilities of AI in expanding the reach and impact of OER. By harnessing AI, educators can significantly enrich the learning experience, making education more accessible, personalized, and effective for every K-12 student.

Attendees of this session will be able to:

• After participating in this session, attendees will be able to understand how AI and OER can be integrated into K-12 classroom instruction to personalize learning.
• After participating in this session, attendees will be able to explore the use of AI in developing and curating tailored OER for their students.
• After participating in this session, attendees will be able to understand the importance of evaluating the impact of AI- and OER-driven instruction and assessments and feedback mechanisms.
• After participating in this session, attendees will be able to consider the future of K-12 education with AI-enhanced open educational resources.