When: October 17, 2019, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Where: Charlotte Frank Classroom (1203 HE)

Presenter(s): Alexandra Gil (OER Librarian); Scott Lipkowitz (Hunter OER)

According to New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, “Every person should have the opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of high costs for tuition and resources needed in the classroom. We’re committed to making college more affordable for students and their families. This funding will continue to provide financial relief and give students the tools they need to succeed in college and beyond.” (emphasis added) Behind this simple statement is a complex debate. There are many ways to interpret affordability and, for better or for worse, the OER movement offers a plethora of pathways. A tension exists between the “Open” pathway where materials are made available to the world at large (with or without cost) and the “Free” pathway where materials are freely available within a learning community (if not the wider world). Hunter’s OER program has attempted to navigate this sharp divide, with some professors choosing each pathway, with mixed results. In this Lunchtime Seminar, the Hunter OER Office will address this debate and share our experiences and recommendations for Hunter’s OER initiative going forward.