Making the Case for Open Education: Responsiveness
Description
In this episode of OpenEd Mic, the conversation revolves around the evolution of open education, focusing on the journey of Liliana Diaz, her research on open educational resources (OER), and the broader implications for student success and educational policy. The discussion highlights the transition from viewing OER primarily as a cost-saving measure to recognizing its impact on student outcomes and persistence. Challenges in data collection and the importance of course markings for accessibility are also addressed, alongside the need for policy frameworks that support open education initiatives. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on the future of open education, emphasizing the commitment of educators to continue this vital work regardless of funding constraints.
Key Takeaways
- Liliana Diaz’s journey into open education began with a lack of knowledge about OER.
- The conversation has evolved from cost savings to broader educational benefits.
- Research shows that no cost, low cost programs positively impact student completion rates.
- Data collection challenges hinder the ability to assess OER’s impact accurately.
- Open education can adapt quickly to new technologies and learning styles.
- Policy frameworks are essential for embedding open education into institutional practices.
- Course markings are crucial for student awareness of OER availability.
- The commitment to open education persists despite funding challenges.
- Collaboration across different educational stakeholders enhances OER initiatives.
- The future of open education is promising, driven by passionate educators.
Chapter Titles
- 00:00 Introduction to Open Education
- 01:48 Liliana Diaz’s Journey into Open Education
- 04:26 Reframing Open Education: Beyond Cost Savings
- 06:48 Research Findings on No Cost, Low Cost Programs
- 11:56 Challenges in Data Collection for OER Studies
- 19:57 The Future of Open Education and Innovation
- 26:51 Course Markings and Accessibility in Open Education
- 33:43 Policy and Accountability in Open Education
- 38:58 Optimism for the Future of Open Education
About our Guest
Dr. Liliana Diaz Solodukhin has over a decade of experience in higher education including roles in admissions, financial aid, advising, and community engagement at two- and four-year institutions. Previously, she was a senior policy analyst at WICHE advancing Open Educational Resources (OER) adoption nationally. She now serves at the Colorado Department of Higher Education as Senior Director of Student Success and P20 Alignment. A Colorado learner, she earned a B.A. in film studies, a B.S. in journalism, and a technology certificate from CU Boulder, along with a master’s and doctorate in higher education from the University of Denver.
About Open-Ed Mic
Explore our Open-Ed Mic podcast for practical guidance and inspiring stories about open education. Discover how to incorporate OER materials into your course while connecting with a community dedicated to transforming teaching and learning through openness.
Meet Your Hosts
Your hosts—Kevin Corcoran, Zach Claybaugh, Brittany Dudek, and Dr. Michael A. Mills—bring decades of combined expertise as prominent thought leaders in open educational resources (OER) within higher education. With extensive backgrounds spanning digital learning, library science, student success initiatives, and strategic leadership at state and national levels, they have collectively shaped policies, driven impactful initiatives, and advocated passionately for increased access to education. Their collaborative approach highlights their deep commitment to advancing open education practices, ensuring quality, affordability, and accessibility for learners everywhere.
United States
