Affordable Learning Solutions (ALS): Introduction
Printable
ALS Guide
- Video webinarVideo introducing the most important parts of the LibGuide (16m15s).
Increasing Cost of Textbooks
According to a 2014 article in the Huffington Post, textbooks have increased by 812% higher than they were about four decades ago. That's more than tuition, medical services, a new home, let alone the Consumer Price Index.
As a result, says the article, "a majority of students admit to not purchasing at least one textbook required for the classes because the price is too high."
The CSU initiated the Affordable Learning Solutions (ALS) program in 2010 to enable "faculty to choose and provide more affordable, quality educational content for their students."
Affordable learning solutions include low-cost textbooks, no-cost textbooks, digital versions, and open educational resources (OERs), as well as renting textbooks. This LibGuide will introduce resources to consider when you are trying to choose the best materials and reduce the cost for your students.
