Open Educational Resources

UNESCO defines OER as learning, teaching and research materials in any format or medium that are in the public domain or under copyright with an open license. They may include resources such as lessons, textbooks, course materials, images and other learning content. The defining feature is not simply that a file can be downloaded without payment: users must have permission to reuse, adapt and redistribute it.

An open license allows a copyright holder to retain ownership while granting the public specified permissions. License terms differ: some require attribution or require adapted versions to be shared under compatible terms. Users should check the license attached to each resource rather than assume that everything available online is openly reusable. Public-domain resources can also qualify as OER because they are not restricted by copyright in the same way.

Educators and learners can reuse and adapt OER for different courses, audiences and teaching settings. This flexibility can make it easier to update or repurpose material, and can reduce reliance on resources that permit no adaptation. However, an open license does not by itself establish that content is accurate, pedagogically suitable, accessible to learners with disabilities, or available to people without reliable connectivity. Effective use also depends on review, teacher support, appropriate technology and sustained maintenance.

On 25 November 2019, UNESCO's General Conference adopted the Recommendation on Open Educational Resources, an international policy instrument for the field. It identifies five areas for action: building capacity to create and use OER; developing supportive policies; encouraging inclusive, equitable and quality resources; nurturing sustainable models; and facilitating international cooperation. The recommendation offers a framework for action, while implementation depends on countries and educational institutions.