What is the Open Education Consortium?
The Open Education Consortium (OEC) is a global network of institutions and organizations that share a commitment to advancing education through open education practices and policies. The OEC was established in 2007 and has since grown to become a leading international organization in the field of open education.
Mission and Goals
The OEC’s mission is to support the development of open education practices and policies worldwide, and to promote access to quality education for all. The organization’s goals include:
- Advancing the development of open educational resources (OER)
- Promoting the use of OER in teaching and learning
- Supporting the development of open educational practices and policies
- Fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among OEC members
Membership and Benefits
The OEC has a diverse membership of over 500 institutions and organizations from around the world, including universities, colleges, schools, non-profit organizations, and private companies. Members benefit from:
- Access to a global network of open education professionals and organizations
- Opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing
- Discounts on OEC events and conferences
- Access to OEC resources and publications
Events and Conferences
The OEC hosts a range of events and conferences throughout the year, including the annual Open Education Global Conference. These events provide a platform for open education professionals to share their experiences, learn from each other, and discuss the latest developments in the field.
Resources and Publications
The OEC produces a range of resources and publications, including the Open Education Handbook, the OER Policy Brief, and the Open Education Newsletter. These resources provide guidance, research, and best practices on open education and OER.
Conclusion
The Open Education Consortium is a vital organization in the field of open education and online learning. Through its global network, events, and resources, the OEC supports the development of open education practices and policies, and promotes access to quality education for all.