Open Educational Resources for Undergraduate Neuroscience Education

This editorial discusses the impact of Open Educational Resources (OER) on the success of undergraduate neuroscience students. In order to provide students with high-quality, accessible, free educational materials, we have launched a series of free neuroscience textbooks and ancillary materials. These are a work in progress and would benefit from contributions from the FUN community. Textbook expenses disproportionately impact first-generation students, students of color, and those on financial aid, often preventing timely access to materials, increasing stress, and hindering academic success. The research suggests that traditional textbooks fail to meet students' needs, either because they are unnecessary or financially burdensome. Free, high-quality neuroscience OER textbooks can alleviate financial stress, lower DFW (drop, fail, withdraw) rates, and improve student-teacher relationships, ultimately enhancing the learning experience. By reducing barriers, OER can foster equitable access to education and support student success in neuroscience and beyond.