Ontario Tech's Digital Learning Policy

Ontario Tech University's digital learning policy is up for review this month. This is the document that outlines how and where the university can implement digital learning resources (DLRs) in its classes — resources such as digital software, e-textbooks, and online access codes that must be purchased to receive grades for that portion or the course. The policy sets the parameters for how Ontario Tech carries out the Ministry Tuition Fee Framework and Ancillary Fee Guidelines for Publicly-Assisted Universities set out by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Ontario Tech's policy was approved in 2019 with the following stipulations:

• 20% of a student’s overall grade in a course may come from material in DLRs
• Each one-term course may charge up to $100 (before taxes) for DLRs
• There must be a no-fee alternative to DLRs that exceed the $100 maximum
• Students must have the option to purchase assessment components without having to purchase a textbook
• A course’s use of DLRs must be present in the course syllabus?
• All faculties must report their use of DLRs to the ancillary fee committee annually

We believe, especially with how fast digital learning has accelerated during the pandemic, that this policy needs to be updated based on student’s experiences.

We are comparing similar policies at universities across Ontario and are conducting a student survey to gather data on the use and usefulness of this policy. With that, we will meet with Ontario Tech’s Academic Council to make recommendations to bring our school’s policy in consonance with other universities in Ontario.??

We need your help in making recommendations, so please take five minutes to tell us about how digital learning resources have impacted your education. Respondents will be entered to win one of three $50 Amazon gift cards.