OERu/OERu 13.10 Meeting/Agenda/Day 1 Breakout guidelines

Group 1: Planning for a fiscally sustainable and scalable OERu network

 * How do we recruit the additional 20 anchor partners to achieve the break-even threshold without reliance on third party funding (we need 45 - 50 partners)? Do you have ideas for the design of the "OERu 2014-50" project (i.e how to achieve 50 partners by the end of 2014)?
 * We need recommendations and guidelines on how to invest surplus revenue for additional members above the break-even threshold. (For example, invest in the paid assembly of courses? If so, we need criteria for selecting these courses for development? Other priorities?)
 * Strategic note: Avoid donor funded projects for supporting operations thus avoiding dependencies - however, are there strategic OERu projects worthy of funding applications?

Task: Develop a proposal for action to achieve a fiscally sustainable OERu with suggested timeline.

Group 2: Leveraging open textbooks for the OERu collaboration

 * BCcampus, a founding OERu anchor partner is leading the the BC Open Textbook initiative to develop the 40 highest-impact first-and second-year courses as open textbooks.
 * A key to the success of open textbook projects is adoption by faculty.
 * OERu (currently with four Canadian anchor partners) presents a unique opportunity for our collaboration to assist with adoption, while increasing the number of OERu courses on offer.

Task: Develop a proposal for action on how the OERu can support the BC Open Textbook initiative for our mutual advantage.

Group 3: OERu curriculum work group

 * We need a decision proposal for the suggested timeline for an OERu partner to complete their two course contribution?
 * Should the network reduce the number of required courses for development when we have sufficient numbers? Does this make a difference?
 * How do we go about developing an OERu programme of study for the Bachelor of General studies?
 * What do students need to support decisions on programme of study and where their credits will be recognised (student guide / calendar of study?)

Group 4: OERu leaders and implementers work group - Inputs for the OERu Council of Chief Executive Officers meeting

 * What are the challenges OERu prototype implementers have experienced and how can leadership help?
 * What does leadership need to ensure successful implementation of the OERu?
 * What are the challenges the OER Foundation has experienced during the OERu prototype implementation phase?