Updated December 2018
To order textbooks for iSchool classes, faculty should first converse with their Program Director/Manager to confirm the use of the text, and to determine if the books have already been ordered. If your Director/Manager did not order them, then you are able to order them using the SU Bookstore online system, number or email address listed below.
Go to http://bookweb.syr.edu/ePOS
Call: 315-443-9901
Email: textbook@syr.edu
► eBooks
Selected ebook subscription resources in Syracuse University Libraries (SUL) collections that allow for multi-person classroom use. eBook – A Summary of Multi-user eBook Options
- Examine the books the previous instructor used
- Talk to the previous instructor, or an instructor of a similar class about their textbook adoption process
- Get the opinion of faculty members who have not taught the course; it might produce a more objective result
- Examine the program curriculum or course learning outcomes and activities for parallels between the program goals and outcomes and textbooks
- Examine the appropriateness of the book for the audience
- Is the book written in appropriate language?
- Are there accessible copies for students with disabilities?
- Is the book visually stimulating?
- Is the book appropriate for learners’ cultural backgrounds, ages, and interests?
- Does the text focus on the skills it claims to focus on?
- Does it actually teach these skills or provide practice in the skills students already possess?
- Examine the book to ensure it covers a wide range of cognitive skills including analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.
- Complete any exercises or activities in the textbook.
- Discuss your course with publisher’s representatives about the textbook, supplementary materials including free and online resources
- Examine Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com for book reviews and recommendations
► Tips for making textbooks more affordable
- Commit to using the same textbook and edition for two – three years to ensure a supply of used books
- Discuss with colleagues adopting the same textbook for similar or same courses
- Let students use an older edition, and provide them with information about newer editions
- Assign readings within the public domain where appropriate and applicable
- For more tips see the Center for Teaching and Learning at UC Berkeley