Course Materials. Simplified.
Why transition to this textbook program?
Iowa Valley (ECC/MCC) wants all students to be able to access and afford textbooks and course materials. This program makes that easier on students, which increases their success in your classroom.
How much does this cost?
ACCESS charges students a flat fee of $22 per credit hour, regardless of how much the textbooks cost.
How does it work?
Faculty select and submit the course materials they want to use. VitalSource sources the materials in physical and digital formats.
When a student registers for classes, their books are automatically ordered. Physical textbooks are shipped for free, and students receive email access information for digital materials.
The $22 per credit hour fee is then added to their account and covered by financial aid. If they have a tuition payment plan, their book costs are included, and they pay for them across the semester.
Students have until the first day of the term/semester to opt-out of the program and purchase course materials on their own. For Fall 2024, that deadline is August 26.
Can a student opt-out before the term/semester starts?
Yes. If they opt-out, they will need to purchase textbooks at current retail or resale prices from the online Student Choice bookstore or an outlet of their choice. They can also easily opt back in. They can view the list of required materials by logging into [Insert ECC/MCC specific Akademos URL]. The opt-out deadline is the first day of the term/semester. For Fall 2025, that date is August 22.
Can students participate for some classes but not others?
No, this program is all-in or all-out for each term/semester.
Will this change how I can choose textbooks and materials for my courses?
No. You select the content you feel is best. The only adjustment may be the date adoptions are due.
Will this limit my choices when considering textbooks for adoption?
No. This program does not limit textbook or format choices. VitalSource sources both physical and digital texts. The format often depends on the selected items and their availability.
I currently use a custom textbook. Will that still be an option?
Yes. All course material adoptions are supported. You are not required to change your content.
How do I adopt course materials?
Go to [Insert ECC/MCC specific Akademos URL] and log in. You’ll see the courses you are scheduled to teach or oversee. Using the search tool, type an ISBN or title, then follow the steps to add details and submit it to VitalSource. You can also message Iowa Valley's client success manager through the website if you have special textbook settings or requests.
What kinds of materials can I adopt?
Faculty retain academic freedom. You select the materials you feel are best for your class, including traditional textbooks, OER materials, or non-textbook items. Digital materials can be more affordable and provide students with immediate access. The VitalSource website and client success manager can also provide tools, analysis, and information so faculty can review textbook costs before adoption.
When are course materials adoptions due?
Adoptions are due 90 days (about 3 months) before the start of each term. For VitalSource to deliver all print and digital materials to students on the first day of class, faculty must submit adoptions on time. From there, VitalSource reviews them to ensure the materials are available and the lowest cost formats are sourced. If there are any availability issues, similar titles, or alternative formats, alternative materials may be suggested.
I want my students to have physical course materials. Can I indicate that?
Yes, you can indicate that when selecting your adoption. Once it is approved by an administrator, VitalSource will deliver the item(s) in physical formats.
I have created my own course materials in the past. How should I proceed?
If you’ve created materials that include selections of traditional texts, library resources, PowerPoint slides, etc., you can submit those through the website, and they will be provided as a course pack.
Recommended vs. Required Materials - what is covered in a program like this?
All required course materials, designated by the faculty member, are covered.