Title
The truly free textbook
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2009
Publication Title
EDUCAUSE Review
Department
Mathematics and Computer Science
Abstract
In this article, the author shares his experience when he converted his linear algebra course notes into an open-source textbook. This textbook began, in large measure, as a demonstration project to answer the following questions: (1) Could an individual, simply as a content expert, use computers and networks for the creation and distribution of a textbook?; (2) Could a free textbook still generate financial return?; (3) Would others use, and contribute to, an open-content textbook? The answer to all of these questions has been yes. As a result of his experience, he expects that other authors' frustration with the textbook industry will lead to similar efforts to create quality textbooks, provided directly to students with generous licenses that are more expansive than what copyright allows.
ISSN
1527-6619
WorldCat Link
Provider Link
Citation
Beezer, Rob. "The Truly Free Textbook." Educause Review. 44.1 (2009): 23-24. Print.