The Affordable Learning Committee recognizes faculty that have implemented low-cost or no-cost textbooks or course materials in their classes. Faculty OER/AER awards provide a small amount of financial incentives. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and are reviewed twice each year, in October and March. See Award FAQs for more information.
The award application is in a Microsoft Power Apps format only accessible to CVTC employees.
Other institutions see below for a link to a sample application that our Power Apps form is based on.
How much are the award amounts for implementing OER or AER?
The awards do not vary based on number of credits. Non-credit courses may also be considered.
When can I apply for an award?
Awards can be applied for throughout the year, however applications are only reviewed and paid twice each year (fall and spring). OER/AER must be piloted in the course for at least one term before applying for an award.
What if there are multiple instructors that implement OER in a course? How is this awarded?
The instructor who developed the course with the OER is eligible for the award. If multiple instructors helped with the development, then they are able to submit the application as a team. If you are still unsure of eligibility, please speak with your dean.
How many applications can I submit in a one-year period?
Faculty are eligible to submit one award application each year. Exceptions may be made for projects that involve multiple faculty. NOTE: Due to State of Wisconsin/WTCS OER Funding, faculty are eligible for more than one award during 2023-2024, for classes that are zero-cost and OER. Number of awards will be dependent on the number of applications.
Are there different award amounts for implementing OER vs. AER materials?
No, there are not different award amounts. However, since funding is limited, OER (or zero-cost AER) projects will be prioritized.
What if I reduced the cost of my course’s instructional resources significantly but it doesn’t fall within the OER/AER threshold of $40 or less?
Unfortunately we are only able to award projects which encompass instructional course resources of $40 or less. Please see your dean/director for a potential special curriculum project.
If I develop an OER/AER that is used in multiple courses, how can this be awarded?
If the content is original and created by you, and is used in multiple courses, you can submit an application one year for the creation award rate. You may apply for other courses that use the resource at the adoption award rate. The total cost of the course’s instructional resources must be $40 or less to qualify for the award.
Does everyone in my department or program have to use the same resource if the course is taught by multiple instructors?
Only one application will be awarded for each course. See your dean/director if you wish to use different resources than your colleagues.
What happens to my work if I am awarded?
All resources used are shared freely with other educators nationwide through Canvas Commons, CVTC’s institutional repository, and/or the WTCS OER index.
If you create original work it will be licensed under Creative Commons and copyright will be owned by the College.
Can I charge students for the resources I create or develop?
No, all resources must be made freely available. Please contact your dean or director if you would like to work with a publisher for paid contracts.
You can recommend students purchase printed original materials such as lab manuals or workbooks. These materials can be adopted through the bookstore.
Who reviews the courses for awards?
The CVTC Affordable Learning Committee reviews applications for OER/AER awards.
How are the OER/AER awards funded?
CVTC funds the projects through the Curriculum & Assessment department with general funds. Grant funds may also be used when available.
How are student cost savings calculated?
Institutional research compiles this data using student enrollment, duration, and the original cost of the purchase course textbook (when available) or the national textbook cost average of $116. These numbers are calculated annually.
I want to create, develop, or write my own resource/textbook but the work far exceeds the $2,500 maximum creation stipend. Do I have other options?
There may be grants or other funds available for original creation. Contact your dean/director or the library for more information on potential additional funds.
How can I keep my work updated?
You are eligible to apply for course maintenance awards for courses that use existing OER/AER at curriculum review time or every three years.
Are professional development or continuing education courses eligible for this award?
No, not at this time. Speak with your dean or director about other funding options.
What if a former employee created the resource I use? Can I be awarded a stipend for their work?
Faculty are only eligible for awards on work they completed. However If the course hasn’t been awarded in the past, you can apply for a maintenance award when the course needs to be refreshed.
Where can I go if I want to get started on using OER in one of my courses?
The library can help you get started. Contact library@cvtc.edu for more information.
View the short video below to learn more about the OER/AER award process at CVTC.