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Finding ZTC Courses & Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

• How did ZTC and OER start?

  In 2015, California put into effect , the California College Textbook Affordability Act. The goal of this act is to save college students money by empowering professors and local campuses to adopt high quality, free and open educational resources for courses materials.

  In 2016, California introduced , which requires that all online Schedule of Classes for CCCs and CSUs must indicate which course sections have “zero-textbook-cost" as-of January 1^st, 2018.  These sections must be searchable and advertised to students.

• What exactly does it mean if my course is labeled as ZTC?
  If your course has a ZTC icon or marking, this means that in this course you will not have to buy a textbook or any courseware. Your instructor will use free resources like online textbooks, PDFs, or library materials.
• Does a ZTC course mean it is completely free?

  No, ZTC only refers to the cost of course textbooks or courseware. Those will be free in a ZTC course. However, things like tuition and course materials (e.g. calculators, lab materials, etc.) will still have costs, depending on the class.

  To understand if your class has a materials fee, please refer to the Section Information area under the course details.

• I'm on the class schedule, how can I tell if a course is ZTC?

  In order to know if the course you want is ZTC, look for this icon on the class schedule: 

  If you want to search the class schedule for all ZTC courses, select 'ALL' under Subject and 'Zero-Cost Course Materials' under Attributes.

• Is the content in a ZTC course lower quality?
  Not at all! ZTC courses often use high-quality, peer-reviewed materials. Instructors can also update them more easily to keep things current.
• Do I need to print anything?
  Some materials may be available online only. You can choose to print at your own cost, but it is not required.
• What if I need help accessing course materials?

  The OCC Library has a you can search through! If you need help finding something, they also have a chatbot on their webpages where you can talk to a librarian.

  You can also visit The Hub if you need more assistance with navigating OER resources.

  Keep in mind, many OER resources are accessible on smart phones, tablets, or computers.

• I'm an instructor, how can I find out more about using OER and making my class ZTC?

  We're so happy you're interested in pursing OER and ZTC! For more information, please check out the .

  There you can find out information on the background of these statewide initiatives, professional development and funding opportunities available for converting your class to OER/ZTC, and contact information for the OER/ZTC Coordinator.