Core Concept: Open Educational Resources (OER) are the application of Open Science principles to the classroom and the textbook. This element is given a central position on the central display, with its own large module and dedicated “OER” sign. OER are learning materials—textbooks, course curricula, syllabi, lecture notes, and even interactive simulations that are licensed to be freely shared and, most importantly, remixed.
Detailed Explanation: Unlike the current student portal, which is just a single access point, OER are dynamic. Our roadmap identifies their core function: OER provide a set of customizable, modular digital resources and interactive simulations via mooc.upsi.edu.my
This requires two main shifts from traditional educational publishing:
- Open Licenses: OER often use Creative Commons licenses, allowing the 5R Rights: Retain, Reuse, Revise, Remix, and Redistribute.
- Modular Digital Content: Materials are built in sections (modules), allowing educators to pick and choose components (like our OER modules show) to create a perfect, tailored curriculum.
Importance in Open Science:
- Cost Reduction for Students: Eliminates the burden of expensive textbooks.
- Adaptation and Customization: Educators can customize materials for local context, different languages, or specific learner needs (as seen in the “Personalized Skill Pathways” in image 14.png).
- Equity: Provides all students equal access to high-quality materials from day one.
Implementation at UPSI (as per Agenda): While not the primary focus of the initial Research Data Management push, OER is explicitly identified as an essential pillar of the UPSI OS strategy. The 2025/2026 timeline prioritizes the infrastructure and governance (the RDM platform and policies). Once the data repository and publishing workflow (the sWADAH Stream system) is established for research (OA/Open Data), it will be expanded to host and manage UPSI’s OER library. The initial awareness talk series includes components on Open Science broader scope, which covers OER.