Digital learning material

The guidelines on digital learning material used in courses are in line with the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities’ (MTCU) Tuition Fee Framework and Ancillary Fee Guidelines for Publicly-Assisted Universities 2013-14 to 2016-17. In this framework, MTCU permits, under certain conditions, the universities to ask students to purchase digital learning material.

Digital learning material can include access to databases, access to online learning resources and access to mobile clickers. Digital test/assessment tools can include simulation tools, online quizzes and online exercises.

Below are the University of Ottawa’s guidelines with regard to fees for digital learning materials.

The University of Ottawa recognizes that digital learning material can enhance the academic experience of students. At the same time, the University is conscious of the potential financial impact of such costs for students.

Therefore, and in accordance with MTCU guidelines, the University has developed the following guidelines for the fees related to digital learning materials.

1. The instructors should use digital learning material that is already available to students at the University. When such digital learning material is not appropriate, the instructor may ask students to purchase digital learning material that become the property of the students, which can include test/assessment tools.
2. Instructors may use digital test/assessment tools to assess student performance, if the weight of the total course grade associated to its use does not exceed 25%. Exceptionally, the instructor can obtain written approval from the Dean of the faculty offering the course should the weight exceed 25%.
3. The total cost of learning material includes textbooks, printed material, digital learning material and other learning resources. It must be reasonable. For example, if a $200 physical textbook is required for the course, an additional $30 for digital resources would be reasonable. If a similar course uses only digital material, the cost of the material could be $230.
4. When the test/assessment tools are bundled with other learning material (such as a textbook), the instructor must provide an option for students to purchase the test/assessment tool separately. 
5. If the above provisions are not satisfied, the use of digital learning material can be proposed to students, but the instructor must also offer a no-fee alternative to students.
6. It is expected that the course syllabus will indicate, if relevant:
   • the digital learning material (required or optional), including test/assessment tools,
   • the cost of such material,
   • the weight of the total course grade associated with the use of the test/assessment tools,
   • the details on how to obtain such material, and
   • the details on the no-fee alternative