How to accomplish this:
We realise that no single person has enough time to spend days and weeks writing
a
free textbook. What we propose is to combine many small
contributions into a quality text.
Step 1: Core content
Use many
small contributions to get the core content. Here we ask many
people to contribute small sections, notes or worked examples that they have and are
willing to allow us to include. Every contributor will be credited as
an author.
Step 2: Flow
Once we have
contributions we will edit every section for flow and consistency.
Once this is complete we will have a rough draft textbook.
Step 3: Outcomes-based layout and
focus
Members of the University of Cape Town Education Department will work through
the entire text editing and
ensuring that the book meets outcomes-based criteria and is pitched at
the correct level.
Step 4: Credentials
Guest editors
who study science education will then edit the chapters.
Step 5: Fundraising
The book will include line drawings and so can be printed
in black and white. Due to the licencing any business will be able to print copies on
their own printers and provide copies to a local school/s. This will allow communities
to raise money or sponsorship and ensure that their children have
access to textbooks. FHSST will also work to find sponsorship
opportunities to cover printing costs.
Step 6: Distribution
Besides local
businesses sponsoring schools we would like to provide
copies to the
Mindset Project to distribute to their
schools. We will also begin a publicity drive to raise awareness and
money to print copies.
Step 7: Expansion
There are many other education initiatives which could benefit
from a free quality textbook. Two we like are:
Namibian education initiative
Africa Foundation
There are many others!
