Develop Recommendations for the Implementation of a No-Cost Designation in Course Schedules

Spring
2019
Resolution Number
13.01
 
Contact
Assigned to
Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI)
Category
General Concerns
Status
Assigned

Whereas, SB 1359 (Block, 2016) requires all segments of public higher education in California to “Clearly highlight, by means that may include a symbol or logo in a conspicuous place on the online campus course schedule, the courses that exclusively use digital course materials that are free of charge to students and may have a low-cost option for print versions” (California Education Code §66406.9) as of January, 2018;

Whereas, Determinations of what course sections qualify for a no-cost identifier as required by SB 1359 (Block, 2016) are subject to interpretation, with some colleges opting to interpret the legislation very strictly and others opting to highlight all courses with no associated costs (i.e., including those courses that have never required a text); and

Whereas, Developing guidance and suggested practices for local senates to consider for the implementation of SB 1359 (Block, 2016) may result in appropriate consistencies across the colleges;

Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges investigate the approaches used to implement SB 1359 (Block, 2016) across all segments of higher education in California and similar efforts in other states; and

Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges develop suggested guidelines, policies, and practices for implementation of SB 1359 (Block, 2016) no later than Spring of 2020.

MSU