Laredo College prides itself on ensuring that every resident in the area has the opportunity to take advantage of the affordability the college offers. With the understanding that it may still prove difficult to start an educational journey, LC strives to find new ways to make premium higher education affordable and accessible.
This year, Laredo College implements the Open Educational Resources (OER) initiative that aims to transform our textbooks from costly to cost-free, aiming to improve affordability and access while simultaneously broadening the diversity of our curriculum.
This initiative is in part due to the overwhelming support of both LC President Dr. Minita Ramírez and the LC Board of Trustees. During the December LC board meeting, the board unanimously voted in favor of adopting the initiative.
This endeavor could also not have been possible without the support and efforts by LC Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Marisela Rodriguez Tijerina, LC Professor Prakash Mansinghani, the staff at the Center of Teaching Excellence and Learning and the Academic Innovation and Technology department.
By making textbooks cost-free, LC leaders believe that our students and the community will truly benefit. This move will also help faculty take greater ownership of their curriculum and use their expertise to tailor each course for the students.
The changes are already in effect for the GOVT 2305 course supported by the grant and Spring 2024 students will get a first-hand look at what these exciting changes will do for them over the span of the semester.
According to Dean of Academic Innovation and Technology Dr. Elizabeth Rodriguez, students can anticipate a course that pushes the boundaries of conventional academia that departs from traditional examinations. The redesigned course will focus on project-based assessments, preparing students for an industry that values practical skills like presentation, oral communication and critical thinking.
“By harnessing the power of OER, we are committed to providing cost-free educational materials, reducing financial burdens and fostering a more inclusive academic environment,” she said. “This transition is a testament of our dedication to ensuring that every student has equal access to quality education and embraces the ethos of openness and collaboration. Laredo College is poised to create a transformative impact on education by empowering all students on their academic journey.”