Brief presentation on the pros and cons of using OER in Early Childhood Education courses.

1. Using Open Educational
Resources in ECE
BY ERIN VASISHTAH
LAKE WASHINGTON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

2. Defining OER
OER stands for Open
Educational Resources.
Educational materials
(photos, videos, course
content/modules) that
reside in the public domain
OR have been openly
licensed to allow freedom to
use and re-purpose the
materials to fit your needs.
Creative Commons licensing
is a free, easy to use way of
giving public permission to
use educational materials
that you create.
"Creative Commons Licenses" by City Tech (New York City College of Technology) is licensed under CC BY-
NC-SA 4.0

3. Benefits of Using OER
•Cost Savings: OER can significantly reduce the financial
burden on students by eliminating the need for expensive
textbooks.
•Accessibility: Enhances access to learning materials for a
broader audience, including those in economically
disadvantaged situations.
•Customization: Instructors can adapt and customize OER to
suit the specific needs of their courses.
•Collaboration: Encourages collaboration and sharing of
resources among educators globally.
•Global Perspective: OER can provide diverse perspectives
and cultural insights, enriching the learning experience.

4. Challenges to Using OER
•Quality Concerns: Some OER may lack the rigor and quality
control associated with traditional textbooks.
•Limited Scope: Availability of OER may be limited in certain
subject areas or niche courses.
•Technological Barriers: Reliance on digital platforms may
pose challenges for students with limited access to technology.
•Upkeep and Maintenance: OER may require continuous
updates and maintenance, which can be resource-intensive.
•Intellectual Property Concerns: Issues related to copyright
and licensing may arise, impacting the legality and usability of
certain OER.

5. Concluding Thoughts
The integration of Open Educational Resources (OER) in ECE presents a compelling
opportunity for positive transformation in education. The undeniable cost savings,
enhanced accessibility, and potential for global collaboration are significant advantages.
However, challenges such as ensuring quality, addressing technological barriers, and
navigating intellectual property issues must be carefully considered.
It is crucial to strike a balance between embracing innovation and upholding educational
standards. Open dialogue, ongoing professional development, and a commitment to
quality assurance will be essential in maximizing the benefits of OER while mitigating
potential drawbacks. By doing so, we can pave the way for a more inclusive, dynamic,
and effective learning environment for students worldwide.