Developing an Open Textbook for Learning and Instructional Design Technology

Abstract

Despite the emphasis on open educational resources in our field, there are surprisingly few examples of open textbooks in our field, as well as in graduate education generally, despite the findings from research that these books can be affordable, high quality, and advantageous to students and faculty. In this article I describe one process for creating an open introductory textbook. I discuss design decisions, technological choices, and lessons learned, including suggestions for other potential book creators, in an attempt to encourage further development of open book scholarship. I also share initial data on student perceptions about the book, and my conclusions about the textbook creation process.