BTSU and CCB launch educational initiatives to reduce textbook costs and prepare for AI

A groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing academic success and affordability in Vermont's higher education system is set to launch this fall. The Vermont State Colleges System (VSCS) is rolling out a series of projects focused on research, open educational resources (OER), and artificial intelligence (AI) readiness, with the first phase kicking off in September.

The research component of the initiative will run from June through August, culminating in a showcase event in September. This project aims to foster a culture of research and academic excellence, helping students prepare for graduate school and national research opportunities. Additionally, workshops will be offered to support graduate school preparation and financial literacy.

A key highlight of the initiative is the OER project, which pairs faculty from the Burlington Technical School University (BTSU) and Community College of Vermont (CCV) to identify low-cost or no-cost alternatives to expensive science textbooks. This collaboration not only aims to reduce financial burdens on students but also ensures they are ready from day one of classes, minimizing the risk of falling behind due to delayed access to required materials.

Moreover, the initiative addresses the growing importance of AI in education. A project focused on AI readiness will prepare faculty and staff to engage with AI tools effectively and ethically. Training materials and evaluation frameworks are being developed to enhance internal capacity and track performance outcomes across the system.

The VSCS has already announced five initial projects and is gearing up to select additional proposals for the 2025-2026 academic year. With these efforts, the VSCS aims to create a more accessible and effective educational environment for all students, ensuring they are equipped for future challenges in academia and beyond.