Apple Re-invents the Textbook (and Locks it Up)

The media is abuzz about Apple's move toward publishing text-books. Some have likened this move to Apple's re-invention of music with the i-pod and
i-tunes. A recent Chronicle article presents some pros and cons about Apple's newest venture into education (anyone remember hypercard?).

Customize Your Textbooks

Have you ever wanted to take different chapters or articles from multiple sources and put them together into one course textbook? Now you can digitally. A recent Chronicle article explains how digital publishing companies are allowing instructors to mix and match material and to deliver this package as a digital textbook, all for about $20.
Read more about this approach in the Chronicle article by Alex Campbell.

eBooks becoming more streamlined

Talk in a recent report indicates that eBooks may be more accessible in the future. The variation of formats for readers and eBooks has hindered the growth of the eBook option on college campuses. A recent report suggests that companies are working together to straighten out the differences and make eBooks a more viable option for colleges.

Do you offer or require eBooks for your courses? What barriers have you experienced? Are you hoping for this technology to become more common at UNF?

Note that UNF subscribes to SkillSoft through MyWings (bottom right-hand corner when you log in). This service provides access to a number of eBooks as well as access to technical skill training (all free to students and faculty).