Usage Pattern of Open Educational Resources (OER) Among University Students: An Exploratory Study

Rajender Kumar*, DAV College Sadhaura, Yamuna Nagar

https://doi.org/10.9743/JEO.2026.23.3.8

Abstract

This study investigates Kurukshetra University students’ awareness, usage, preferences, and perceptions of Open Educational Resources (OER) and emphasizes the role of each in enhancing education. Using stratified random sampling, a descriptive survey methodology was employed to select 150 students from engineering, sciences, and management faculties. With a response rate of 94.7%, data from 142 valid questionnaires were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and chi-square tests at a 0.05 significance level. Findings are presented in descriptive tables for clarity. The study shows that students are generally aware of and actively engage with OER. Key drivers of OER adoption include cost-effectiveness, improved accessibility, updated information, and sustainability. Open textbooks are the most preferred resource, followed by video lectures, open-access journals, and social media platforms. Students also use digital tools to create, modify, and share OER while adhering to copyright and licensing guidelines. OER reduces costs and promotes collaboration, thereby improving learning outcomes. However, challenges persist such as the quality and availability of resources and technological barriers. While the study offers valuable insights from Kurukshetra University, broader research across multiple universities would expand the understanding of OER use and help address existing challenges. The findings provide actionable recommendations for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote equitable learning through OER and highlight the need for ongoing education about licensing and copyright and improvements in OER quality and accessibility. This study contributes to understanding OER usage among Indian university students, offering practical guidance for fostering responsible adoption.

Keywords: Open Educational Resources, OER, university students, India, usage trends, adoption, preferences, challenges

*rajkukphd@gmail.com