Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC)
What are Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC)?
Zero textbook cost (ZTC) refers to the cost associated with the course. Specifically, it refers to a course that has no textbook costs. This differs from OER where the focus is broader than cost and includes open licensing.
OER resources are available at not cost and come with open licenses. What sets OER apart from ZTC is its capacity for openness and adaptability, allowing for retention, reuse, revision, remixing, and sharing with others, all of which are equally crucial features. To learn more, visit the Creative Commons Licensing page.
Colorado, a leading state in Open Educational Resources (OER) adoptions, defines ZTC degree programs in Section 8 of the Colorado Revised Statue § 23-4.5-102 as "postsecondary credential or degree program that does not require a student to pay textbook costs, but requires the student to use only open educational resources or other resources that are entirely free to the student." For the purpose of the Colorado OER program, z-degrees are considered to be general education + major coursework, major coursework in a degree program, credentials or certificates, and graduate coursework. ZTC Programs – Adoption Guide – 2nd Edition, licensed CC BY
ZTC can include:
- Courses without a required textbook
- Textbooks available free of charge
- Learning materials such as articles, books, and other learning materials that are accessible through the library.
Reprinted with permission from Red Rocks Community College Library.