Textbook Heroes

Trevor Rivers

Associate Teaching Professor
Biology

OER created: 

The creation of his open textbook, “Biology for an Informed World,” has allowed Rivers to organize the introductory biology class for non-majors with an eye for increased engagement and enhanced learning. After a year of preparatory work, Rivers launched use of the textbook at the beginning of the spring semester.

Taking a scaffolded approach that helps students master unfamiliar, complex concepts by building on what they already know, the text connects foundational biological concepts to real‑world issues and everyday decision‑making, building scientific literacy by linking fundamental concepts to real-world decisions and societal issues. The digital format incorporates various educational aspects such as YouTube videos and other links incorporated directly into the written material, all available on the learning management system students can easily access.

Increasing educational opportunity:

Rivers’ efforts have reshaped how nearly 2,000 students each year will encounter introductory biology at the University of Kansas, and replaced an $80 commercial text with a free, easily accessible, multimedia resource, creating significant financial savings for students.