Important info re. eTextbooks
I am writing to inform you about recent changes to Algonquin’s course materials practices. After consultation with Deans and Chairs, the College Academic Council, and the Students’ Association, and upon reviewing the results of an extensive research study on eTextbook deployment at Algonquin, the Institutional Purchase Model (IPM) for eText deployment will conclude effective September 2019. Note that digital textbooks will remain a part of our course materials strategy moving forward; however, new practices will be focused on increasing learner choice of format. As such, costs for eTextbooks will no longer be assessed as a compulsory ancillary fee.
The pillars of our eText project - affordability, accessibility and achievement - remain at the forefront of our course materials strategy moving forward. Our Campus Services team, with support from Course Material Services, is committed to providing the best possible service to students and faculty. The team has recently completed an environmental scan of course materials delivery across post-secondary institutions, and will now be starting a consultation phase with a variety of stakeholders including faculty and students to inform our priorities. In the meantime, Course Material Services will be reviewing the adoption process, consulting with College Academic Council, and providing any procedural changes to the college community by March 31, 2019 in advance of the Fall 2019 adoption period. Thank you to all those who contributed to the efforts in completing Winter 2019 adoptions as the college continues to review our course material strategy.
Learners are at the forefront of this decision. Our Students’ Association has made it clear that choice is a necessary part of our course materials delivery, and we are listening. Anyone wishing to participate in upcoming feedback opportunities is encouraged to contact Jeremy McQuigge, Manager of Digital Resources using the email address: cms@algonquincollege.com.
Students wishing more information about this communiqué may contact Annie Thomlinson, Manager, Marketing and Communications in the Students’ Association office at thomlij@algonquincollege.com.Sincerely,
Claude Brulé
Senior Vice President Academic