Fall 2019 Resolution Number: 09.06
Whereas, Publishers have been developing approaches to monetize open educational resources and, in some instances, are providing textbook solutions that dramatically decrease the costs of such resources but may have unintended negative consequences;
Whereas, “Inclusive access” strategies have been introduced by publishers in various formats as an approach to decrease the cost of course resources by providing access to low-cost digital resources;
Whereas, Some implementations of inclusive access strategies are “opt-in,” requiring students to purchase resources at the time of registration and limiting students’ access to such resources for a specific time period; and
Whereas, The implementation of inclusive access strategies by publishers may serve to eliminate the used textbook market and may ultimately increase costs for students;
Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges provide guidance to local senates regarding the potential impact of inclusive access and questions to be asked about such programs if locally proposed;
Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges recognize the benefits and value of the used textbook market as a source of low-cost and lasting texts; and
Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Colleges encourage faculty and colleges to carefully consider the impact of inclusive access and recognize that while such programs may address immediate student needs, they may not work in students’ long-term interest.