Comparison of academic performance with a traditional textbook versus a digital openly-licensed textbook

Abstract

With the utilization of open educational resources (OER) and digital materials becoming more popular, research is needed to determine if academic outcomes are affected with the increasing shift to digital content. The goal of this research was to analyze the academic performance of students using a traditional physical textbook, as compared to those using an electronic copy of a similar textbook provided free through the campus library. The traditional and digital no-cost textbook comparisons were made between two sections of the same upper division undergraduate course taught at Hispanic-Serving Institution. The two sections of the course were taught during the Fall 2019 semester, both online, with the same faculty member facilitating both sections. There was no statistical difference in mean discussion grades, t(62)=-0.714, p=0.478, d=0.178444, mean written assignment grades, t(62)=-1.985, p=0.053, d=0.49613, and mean quiz grades, t(62)=-1.711, p=0.092, d=0.427858. However, when looking at the overall total course grade, the mean no-cost course was statistically higher than the traditional textbook course, t(62)=-2.097, p=0.042, d=0.524348. Instructors do not need to be concerned about student outcomes with the increasing implementation of such materials. Universities providing free digital access to textbooks can help address financial concerns for these students without sacrificing academic performance.