1 Goals
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this chapter, learners will:
- Understand how goals can shape an OER data collection project and why goals are important
- Brainstorm different goals that would be valuable for your OER program
Why set goals?
Defining your goals for OER data collection will help you decide how and when to collect data, and how and with whom to share it.
Here are some sample goals for an OER data collection project:
- Get a snapshot of OER perception and usage on your campus
- Assess the return on investment for OER funding
- Evaluate the outcomes of OER programs
- Understand the impact of OER on student and instructor experience
“Besides extrinsic motivators such as a demand for data in a report to stakeholders, data is also … the way a program can assess successes, failures, emergent ideas, and urgent issues to address…. Data collection, analysis, and reporting can yield multiple benefits for your OER program. Data can guide strategic decision-making when a program wants to adjust, adapt, and move forward. A report based on collected and analyzed data can help tell the story of why your program has the potential to, or already is, making a difference in your institution or system. Data can also indicate a need for targeted open education programming and funding, such as data on high textbook costs, students’ financial needs, or faculty awareness of OER.” (Jeff Gallant)
