Open Educational Resources and open access – UGC NET Question

Statements A and C correctly reflect the meaning and benefits of OER. A is true because OER are explicitly defined as openly licensed materials that can be used and shared freely. C is correct since adopting OER reduces dependence on expensive textbooks and can broaden access to quality content. B is false because open access journals are characterised by free access to readers, even if they sometimes charge authors processing fees. D is false as open licences often grant the right to adapt resources for local needs. Thus, the correct combination is A and C only.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it selects the two statements that align with standard definitions and advantages of OER. It excludes B and D, both of which misstate the financial and legal aspects of open access and licensing.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it includes B as correct, wrongly describing open access journals as subscription-based for readers. This reverses the core idea of open access publishing.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it treats all four statements as correct, thereby accepting B and D, which contradict open access principles and licensing freedoms.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it combines only B and D, both of which are false, and leaves out A and C, which accurately describe OER. This option is entirely inconsistent with accepted definitions.