Measuring the Impact of Newly Developed Open Edcational Resources (OER) Materials of CAD Courses Using Mixed Method Analysis.

This study describes the development of open educational resources (OER) course materials for three computer-aided design (CAD) courses and the evaluation of student and faculty perceptions after their first implementation. We used mixed-method research techniques which involved analysis of quantitative data, utilization of COUP (cost, outcomes, usage, and perception) framework and analysis of qualitative comments using thematic coding. Results suggest students find faculty developed OER materials are more useful and preferable to a traditional textbook without compromising student academic performance. Most students agreed or strongly agreed that the materials provided fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all students. Assessment of faculty data showed that faculty have positive views of OER, their accessibility, customization, and equity measures, and reported increased student engagement when using OER. Faculty also indicated challenges with OER such as time and effort required to create OER contents and the need for periodic update of dynamic courses like CAD as technology and industry needs change. Several recommendations are provided in support of OER for academic effectiveness and student success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]