The Impact of an Interactive Open Education Textbook for an Undergraduate Introductory Chemistry Course for Nonmajors

Reading informational text is a critical skill across most professions. Unfortunately, students are less likely to purchase the required course materials now compared to 2010. A free, interactive text was developed for an introductory chemistry course for non-STEM majors. This involved remixing existing texts and incorporating interactive activities to engage students during the learning process and provide opportunities for them to gauge their learning. Based on the results of a student survey, 82% of students reported that it was very important to them that the text was free and 80% of students who responded reported that they used the eText at least several times a week. In addition to the cost, the format and grading method for the supporting activities accompanying the eText were also found to be important. Students rated autograded questions embedded within the eText more favorably than short-answer questions without feedback. Overall, students found the interactive eText to be a positive resource that effectively supported their learning.