Authentic student reflections on Zero Textbook Cost courses and Open Educational Resources at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Discover real student voices sharing how free course materials impact their learning, engagement, financial well-being, and overall success.
Since 2018, KPU has been a national leader in textbook affordability, making it a strategic priority to ensure the cost of learning materials never becomes a barrier to student success. KPU Student Voices amplifies the perspectives that matter most—those of the students experiencing the impact of this commitment firsthand. Through this collection, read authentic stories about how KPU's Zero Textbook Cost initiative is changing the student experience and creating more equitable access to education.
Current Issue
Spring 2024
Winning entries to the first "Write and Shine" open education writing competition.
Entries are published as submitted with no copyediting or proofreading and minor formatting changes.
Published: 2024-05-01
Featured Student Perspectives
Competition Entries
OPEN VOICES
Share your ZTC Experience
We want to know the impact that our KPU Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) courses have had on you!
You could write about
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The difference between using free online material (such as Open Educational Resources - OERs) and paid textbooks
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the features in the OER that were helpful
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what gets in your way with conventional or paid learning materials
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Your experience taking a course with Zero Textbook Costs
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how your learning was supported
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how access to the textbook affected your engagement with course materials
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The financial impact of paid textbooks on students
Feel free to include as many of the above topics as you wish. Let your creativity flow!
Prizes
The winner will receive a $300 tuition waiver plus Open Ed swag! All participants receive a certificate of participation. Entries will be published under an open license and can be added to your CV or portfolio.
Eligibility
To enter this writing competition, you must:
- be a current KPU student
- have taken a KPU course that did not require you to purchase a textbook (a Zero Textbook Cost course)
- consent to publishing your submission under a Creative Commons license
Important Dates
- Competition Open: Febrary 16-26, 2026
- Winners Announced: Mid-March 2026
Ready to Submit? Review Guidelines & Submit Your Entry →
For any questions or concerns, kindly email us at open@kpu.ca