Because OERs may vary in quality, it is important for instructors to carefully evaluate them before using them in their course.
There are various lists and rubrics for evaluating OER. Common elements of these rubrics address:
Relevance
Does the OER address one or more of the class objectives?
Accuracy
Is the content accurate and free of major errors?
Production Quality
Is the layout and interface easy to navigate, and is the information clear?
Accessibility
Does the OER comply with current ADA accessibility standards?
Interactivity
Does the OER encourage active learning and class participation? If not, are you able to add that to the resource?
Licensing
Is the OER licensed for open use? Can you adapt, remix, or reuse it under a Creative Commons license?