Earlier this month, Professor Tracy Stout attended the annual Open Education Conference, a key event focused on open educational resources (OER) and open pedagogy. The conference, held under the theme “It’s About Time,” inspired attendees to challenge traditional boundaries and envision a future where education is open, inclusive, and transformative for all.

With partial support from a travel grant provided by the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC), Professor Stout participated in sessions centered around expanding accessibility and affordability in education. Her goals included gathering ideas to enhance campus initiatives and strengthening statewide engagement in OER efforts.  During the Midwest Regional Breakout Session, she connected with OER advocates from across the region. She also had the opportunity to meet with current and past SPARC Open Education leaders, exchanging ideas and strategies for advancing open education.

Professor Stout looks forward to implementing these insights on campus, aiming to promote an equitable and inclusive learning environment that benefits all students.