September 2023 Textbook Hero - April Foss

Name:
April Foss

What are some of the classes you teach?

I am a faculty member in the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program. I teach Basic Lab Skills, Phlebotomy, Coagulation, Hematology, Urinalysis, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics.

How long have you been with CVTC?

I have been with CVTC 10 years, starting as an adjunct phlebotomy instructor and a full-time MLT faculty for 7 years.

How long have you been using low-cost and/or no-cost textbooks?

I was on board with this concept when it was discussed at a faculty in-service about four years ago. I have consistently worked with our library department each year since to move our courses towards affordable options.

What is your favorite part of using low-cost and/or no-cost textbooks? As a faculty member, I like the convenience. I have worked with the library staff to offer students online access of the recommended textbook through Canvas. It's as easy as inserting a link. We previously utilized paper lab manuals, but now those procedures and lab reports are available electronically in Canvas, which makes updating much easier. I like to offer options to students based on their needs and learning styles. The online textbook and submission of assignments gives all students affordable access. I also like that this limits our carbon footprint by using less paper. Some students still prefer to have a textbook, or print procedures and lab manuals and we can still offer those options. Any estimated student cost savings from using low-cost and/or no-cost textbooks?

Students utilizing the OER/AER resources save $1000 a year.

Fun fact:

I love Star Wars. If you have a class with me, you'll likely see Star Wars references at some point! Our family pets are all named after Star Wars characters: Kylo, our German shepherd, and our two cats Leia and Stormtrooper (Storm for short). My picture is of me meeting Chewbacca at Disney World!