Using an Open Source Textboo k in Programming Class: Exploring Student Perception and Performance

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss a pilot study of an open educational resource that reduces the textbook cost for students in an intermediate programming course. Our mission is to provide affordable access to education for all our students. Through the use of grade comparison and attitudinal surveys, we explore the impact of using Open Education Resources (OER) upon our students. We examine whether the use of this resource can improve students' confidence and the success rate at an open-Access institution. The pilot study did occur during the 2020-21 pandemic which negatively impacted success rates and student confidence across the board. Despite this, we believe the new material accomplished the mission of introducing low cost material with results as good as or better than the high cost textbook previously used.