Talking Points

Engaging with campus stakeholders on Inclusive and Equitable Access programs require thoughtful consideration of student and faculty needs. The following talking points address considerations relevant to instructors, administrators, campus bookstores, and students. Talking points can be adapted to meet local needs.

With instructors:

Thank you for looking for ways to reduce the cost of course materials and improve student success. Before you choose Inclusive or Equitable Access, though, let’s explore some no-cost options for students that provide day-one access. Inclusive and Equitable Access may benefit students in the short-term, however it is important to be aware of the potential ramifications of this program on students and instructors. Things to be aware of include: no guarantee for subscription prices to stay the same; this may take away financial decision making from students; student data may be collected, including personally identifiable information, technical information, and behavioral information based on their uses of the content. Students have no control over the collection or use of their digital identities. As the subject matter expert, you have the academic freedom to choose the best content for your class. Although inclusive access is one option, open educational resources and library-licensed materials such as books, journal articles, and streaming video, may offer the freely accessible content that you need without the challenges of all-inclusive programs.

With administrators:

Inclusive and Equitable Access is one option on the spectrum of course materials, but there are alternatives at zero cost to students. Although these programs may offer savings compared to a new, full-priced textbook, it’s important to note that many students would not have ordinarily bought new, full-price textbooks. Savings are least realized for those students who typically find lower-cost alternatives and who can resell their course materials at the end of the semester. These programs can provide the least benefit for those in greatest financial need. There are alternatives, including open educational resources that have the advantages of customizability, perpetual use, and unlimited free access. Library-licensed materials that have the advantage of free access for at least as long as the student is enrolled. And traditional bookstore textbook sales, which allow students to recoup at least some of their costs at the end of the semester by reselling owned rather than leased books.

If you decide to go with an Inclusive and Equitable Access program it is important to ensure that it will not infringe on faculty’s academic freedom, due to limited options or exclusive arrangements. You will also want to pay close attention to the actual cost savings that these programs deliver and consider the time to set-up and manage these programs, including the collaborations between the campus store, IT, bursar's office, instructors, and instructional designers. Inclusive and Equitable Access may benefit students in the short-term, however there is no guarantee that subscription prices will remain at current cost. It is important to note that this is a financial decision made on behalf of students, and so considering the implications for student financial agency is important. Having a clear marker for what is considered affordable is critical as well, as prices for these programs vary widely.

With campus stores:

I would love to work with you on textbook affordability initiatives. Together, we could promote a range of no-cost or low-cost options, including open educational resources, library-licensed materials, and inclusive access. If we report student savings from all three options to administrators, our collaborative efforts will show a bigger impact and a greater contribution to student success and retention.

With students:

Supporting student learning is critical to the work of college libraries. Over the last several years, libraries have been engaged in textbook affordability initiatives to help make education more affordable for students. The library wants to hear about how the costs of textbooks and access codes impact your academic success and other needs. The library can explore whether low cost/no cost options are available to support your learning. Understanding your needs also helps libraries advocate on your behalf.

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