Benefits of open-access educational resources

In ancient times, knowledge was shared through manuscripts and gurukuls limited access to education to a select few. Over time, education and learning have been revolutionised. While the fierce competition in knowledge and research has increased documentation costs, it has also made resources more widely accessible. Educational institutions and governments worldwide have recognised the need for equitable access to knowledge, leading to a global push for open-access resources.
For generations, students have struggled with the high costs of textbooks and learning resources, which often add significant financial burdens to their education. However, with modern information technology, free, open-access educational resources (OER) are changing this situation. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, accelerating the shift towards OERs, as remote learning became the norm and digital resources gained unprecedented importance.
OERs are freely available materials that can be used, shared, and modified at no cost. These include textbooks, lecture notes, research articles, videos, and interactive platforms. Unlike traditional textbooks, they are typically hosted online and accessible to anyone with an Internet connection. This has prompted organisations, universities, and educators worldwide to contribute to developing these resources to meet the expectations of global knowledge seekers. It has also helped institutions showcase their academic expertise and research prowess.
Benefits
The emergence of OERs has been a boon for learners worldwide. One of the most significant advantages is eliminating the need to buy costly textbooks. This is especially beneficial for students from low-income backgrounds, allowing them to focus on their studies without the constant worry of affording learning materials. By reducing this financial barrier, OERs promote educational inclusivity and democratise access to knowledge.
OERs provide up-to-date information, which is a crucial advantage in fields where knowledge evolves rapidly. Traditional textbooks often become outdated, requiring students to buy newer editions. In contrast, open-access resources can be updated frequently by educators and researchers, ensuring access to the latest knowledge and developments. This makes OERs particularly valuable in fast-changing disciplines like technology, medicine, and environmental science.
Additionally, open-access resources enhance collaboration and sharing. These platforms encourage collaborative learning, where students and educators worldwide can share insights, ask questions, and contribute to knowledge development. This global exchange of ideas enriches the learning process and fosters a culture of collective intellectual growth.
A challenge many learners face with OERs is reliability and authenticity. But with top educational establishments involved, finding credible resources has become easier. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was one of the pioneers of OER with its OpenCourseWare, offering a vast collection of courses, including lecture notes, assignments, and certifications. India's Swayam platform provides lessons and interactive exercises with certifications. Other initiatives include OpenStax, ePathshala, Vidwan, ShodhGanga, Swayam Prabha, and the National Digital Library (NDL), all of which ensure that learners can access high-quality, peer-reviewed content from reputed institutions.
Barriers
Despite their numerous benefits, OERs come with challenges. Some students may struggle to find relevant materials or face Internet access issues. However, these are being addressed through institutional support and government initiatives. Universities are also training students and faculty on how to navigate OER platforms effectively, ensuring they can make the most of these resources.
The shift towards OERs is not just a passing trend but a lasting transformation. Reliance on traditional textbooks is expected to decline as open-access resources continue to make learning more affordable, reduce educational costs, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. By fostering a culture of open knowledge sharing, OERs are not just reshaping the educational landscape but also building a more equitable and interconnected world of learning. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for OERs will only grow, opening new avenues for students and educators alike.
The writer is Vice Chancellor, CMR University, Bengaluru.

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