Appendix A: Research Questions and Methodology

This paper set out to answer two key research questions: (1) What state initiatives and projects are underway that leverage OER? and (2) How are states integrating these OER initiatives into their work to ensure equitable access to high-quality curriculum and instructional materials?

In order to answer these questions, we reviewed the existing literature and research on curriculum, open educational resources, and quality. We examined the websites of all 50 state education agencies, as well as the District of Columbia. We analyzed thousands of pages of state policies, legislation, and curriculum documents. Based upon these data, we contacted and interviewed 14 education leaders whose work stood out for its innovative approach to leveraging OER and integrating that work into existing efforts to support the adoption of high-quality curricula. While these interviews did not capture all state-led OER activity, they do represent a diversity of approaches, strategies, and contexts. These interviews were conducted between February and April of 2018.

Based upon this work, we identified the four primary types of work that states are undertaking, as well as the four ways that states are supporting the implementation of this work. We also identified five key takeaways for states hoping to leverage OER in their efforts to improve student access to high-quality curriculum and instructional materials.