The OER Summer Sprint Program is an open textbook grant program that will provide instructors with a stipend, the expertise of librarians and instructional technologists, and the opportunity to learn alongside their peers. Fellows are required to adopt or adapt low-cost course materials. They can use a variety of solutions to do so, including Open Educational Resources (OER), library eBooks and databases, and instructor-created materials.
Not sure if there are existing materials to support your project? Please explore IU Bloomington’s OER libguide for guidance.
Please send questions about the sprint or this application form to hjnorris@iu.edu
Apply Now
Any instructor of record at IU Bloomington is eligible to apply.
Other questions can be directed to Open Education Librarian Haley Norris (hjnorris@iu.edu). Applications are due April 3, 2026.
Benefits and Compensation
Fellows will be given a stipend ($1000) based on the scope of their project. Fellows will apply based on their interest in and vision for making their course materials low cost for students. Final stipend will be determined during acceptance consults. Course materials must be as close to zero cost as possible.
Expectations
All fellows are required to:
- Replace an existing, traditional textbook with an alternative that is low- or no-cost
- Participate in in-person workshops May 18th and 19th (in Bloomington)
- Schedule and log consultations with subject librarian, copyright program librarian, instructional designers, etc.
- Submit a final version of their ACM project or OER to an appropriate online resource or repository
Evaluation Criteria
Finalists will be notified by mid April. Members of the OER Summer Sprint will use the following criteria to assess applications and choose finalists:
- Clarity of the plan to move from a traditional textbook to zero cost course materials
- Interest in serving as an ambassador of affordable course materials at IU
- Number of students impacted by the fellow’s work (applications that impact multiple sections will be prioritized)
- Estimated cost savings for students impacted
- Vision for how the project will serve underserved student populations
Goals of the Summer Sprint
The goals are to:
- Lower the cost of college for students, contributing to their retention and progression
- Make course material access on the first day of class a reality for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status
- Encourage the development of alternatives to high-cost textbooks by supporting the adoption, adaptation, and creation of Open Educational Resources (OER)
- Support instructors in navigating the variety of affordable course materials solutions available and aggregate instructor supports across campus into one space
Interested in Affordable Course Materials Generally?
If you’re interested in making your course materials more affordable, finding OER, or learning about course material creation tools but don’t want to do the program, please still reach out! Contact Haley Norris (hjnorris@iu.edu) for general assistance with course materials.
Leave a Reply