Digital library
Textbooks, references and open learning resources.
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Introduction to Computer Science
Dr. Jean-Claude Franchitti; Amal Alhosban; Mark Buckler; Joanna Gilberti · OpenStax, Rice University
Introduction to Computer Science provides a comprehensive foundation in core computer science concepts and principles, aligning with the scope and sequence of most introductory computer science courses. The offering serves as an engaging entry point for students pursuing diverse fields of study and employment, including computer science, business, engineering, data science, social sciences, and related disciplines. By addressing a broad learner audience—ranging from computer science majors to non-majors—the book offers a thorough introduction to computational thinking and its applications across multiple domains. Introduction to Computer Science is designed to be both interactive and practical, focusing on real-world applications that showcase how core computer science concepts can be used to solve complex problems. Students will explore foundational concepts, such as algorithms, data structures, computer systems organization, and software development, using an array of engaging, hands-on activities. Introduction to Computer Science also includes advanced topics such as machine learning, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, ensuring students have a solid foundation for continued study and future professional success. The offering integrates meaningful learning experiences through chapter-based scenarios, problem-solving exercises, embedded coding activities, and project-based assessments that encourage students to apply what they learn in authentic contexts. The material also includes an array of industry insights and explorations of emerging technology trends in order to provide a holistic approach to learning that extends beyond theory.
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Introduction to Business 2e
Lawrence J. Gitman; Carl McDaniel; Amit Shah; Monique Reece · OpenStax, Rice University
Introduction to Business 2e provides a strong, multidimensional foundation in the concepts, skills, and real-world examples of contemporary business. Welcoming and relevant narratives support students as they engage in core themes such as decision making, ethics, customer satisfaction, entrepreneurship, global business, and managing technological and societal changes. The material includes hundreds of current business examples from a range of industries and geographic locations. Extensive illustrations, case studies, review materials, and assessments offer instructors and learners the tools needed to develop a deep, practical understanding. The outcome is a balanced approach to the theory and application of business concepts, with attention to the knowledge and skills necessary for success in further studies and careers. The Second Edition was written with extensive input from faculty, industry experts, and students. Revisions focus on currency, emerging technologies, changing business practices, and evolving legal and ethical dynamics. The authors emphasize course-wide themes, including the impacts and implications of artificial intelligence, the changing nature of the workplace, and new approaches to team dynamics. A detailed transition guide is available in the instructor resources. Introduction to Business 2e is supported by instructor ancillaries, and is available in OpenStax Assignable. As described in OpenStax’s accessibility statement and related documentation, we focus on inclusive development and detailed evaluation to ensure that our platforms and course materials meet relevant WCAG guidelines.
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Introduction to Behavioral Neuroscience
Elizabeth D. Kirby; Melissa J. Glenn; Noah J. Sandstrom; Christina L. Williams · OpenStax, Rice University
Introduction to Behavioral Neuroscience aligns to the topics and objectives of introductory behavioral neuroscience courses taught in psychology, biology, neuroscience, and similar departments. This offering is intended for undergraduates with no presumed college-level science coursework, and presents the foundational principles of brain-behavior-environment interactions. In Introduction to Behavioral Neuroscience, students will begin to understand how the physiology of the nervous system and the environment dictate our movements, thoughts and feelings. Students will be challenged to think about real neuroscience experiments, appreciate how neuroscience knowledge evolves over time, and consider open questions in the field. They will also be invited to learn about the people behind the science, such as through interview videos and researcher profiles. The development of this material was supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation under IOS-2035041 to Elizabeth Kirby. The opinions, descriptions, recommendations, and findings are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF. An Affordable Learning Exchange grant to Elizabeth Kirby from the Ohio State University also supported development of this material.
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Introduction to Anthropology
Jennifer Hasty; David G. Lewis; Marjorie M. Snipes · OpenStax, Rice University
Designed to meet the scope and sequence of your course, OpenStax Introduction to Anthropology is a four-field text integrating diverse voices, engaging field activities, and meaningful themes like Indigenous experiences and social inequality to engage students and enrich learning. The text showcases the historical context of the discipline, with a strong focus on anthropology as a living and evolving field. There is significant discussion of recent efforts to make the field more diverse—in its practitioners, in the questions it asks, and in the applications of anthropological research to address contemporary challenges. In addressing social inequality, the text drives readers to consider the rise and impact of social inequalities based on forms of identity and difference (such as gender, ethnicity, race, and class) as well as oppression and discrimination. The contributors to and dangers of socioeconomic inequality are fully addressed, and the role of inequality in social dysfunction, disruption, and change is noted.
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Intermediate Algebra 2e
Lynn Marecek; Andrea Honeycutt Mathis · OpenStax, Rice University
Intermediate Algebra 2e is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of a one-semester intermediate algebra course. The book’s organization makes it easy to adapt to a variety of course syllabi. The text expands on the fundamental concepts of algebra while addressing the needs of students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. The material is presented as a sequence of clear steps, building on concepts presented in prealgebra and elementary algebra courses. The second edition contains detailed updates and accuracy revisions to address comments and suggestions from users. Dozens of faculty experts worked through the text, exercises and problems, graphics, and solutions to identify areas needing improvement. Though the authors made significant changes and enhancements, exercise and problem numbers remain nearly the same in order to ensure a smooth transition for faculty. The first edition of Intermediate Algebra by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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Fundamentals of Nursing
Christy Bowen; Lindsay Draper; Heather Moore · OpenStax, Rice University
Fundamentals of Nursing aligns with the outcomes and competencies of a nursing fundamentals course. It is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and practical expertise essential for delivering holistic and patient-centered care. The authors emphasize the application of clinical judgment across diverse healthcare environments, ensuring readiness to deliver high-quality, compassionate care in an inclusive and supportive manner. Composed of 43 chapters, Fundamentals of Nursing offers an in-depth exploration of the roles and responsibilities of the nursing profession, the healthcare environment, and the application of critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Fundamentals of Nursing features a variety of engaging and informative resources designed to prepare students for real-world clinical environments. By simulating patient interactions, students develop critical communication skills essential for effective nursing care. Insights from practicing nurses provide real-world perspectives, helping bridge the gap between theory and practice. The offering builds student confidence and competence through its focus on Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN), inclusion of robust unfolding case studies, and integration of NCLEX practice.
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Foundations of Information Systems
Dr. Mahesh S. Raisinghani; Amal Alhosban; Dax Bradley; Wade Chumney · OpenStax, Rice University
Foundations of Information Systems aligns to the topics and objectives of most introductory information systems courses in computer science and information technology, as well as in other subject areas such as health and business information systems. The offering helps students understand foundational concepts including hardware, software, database management systems, and data networks. The instruction is based on the ACM/IEEE/AIS curriculum standards for information systems (IS2020) that allow institutions to use the content for the purposes of accreditation for ABET, AACSB, and ACBSP. The material focuses on developing and applying knowledge regarding the collection, processing, storage, distribution, and value of information. Students will also learn about the various interactions between information systems professionals and others in organizations, so that they understand how to collaborate with management, colleagues, customers, and suppliers. Foundations of Information Systems is designed to engage students through a combination of practical, real-world applications and thought-provoking scenarios that promote critical thinking and a deeper understanding of core concepts. The pedagogical approach is centered on making information systems relevant to students from an array of backgrounds and career interests. By connecting theory to practice and encouraging students to explore real-world issues, Foundations of Information Systems equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their academic and professional journeys.
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Entrepreneurship
Michael Laverty; Chris Littel; Chandra D. Arthur; Martin S. Bressler · OpenStax, Rice University
This textbook is intended for use in introductory Entrepreneurship classes at the undergraduate level. Due to the wide range of audiences and course approaches, the book is designed to be as flexible as possible. Theoretical and practical aspects are presented in a balanced manner, and specific components such as the business plan are provided in multiple formats. Entrepreneurship aims to drive students toward active participation in entrepreneurial roles, and exposes them to a wide range of companies and scenarios.
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Elementary Algebra 2e
Lynn Marecek; MaryAnne Anthony-Smith; Andrea Honeycutt Mathis · OpenStax, Rice University
Elementary Algebra 2e is designed to meet scope and sequence requirements for a one-semester elementary algebra course. The book’s organization makes it easy to adapt to a variety of course syllabi. The text expands on the fundamental concepts of algebra while addressing the needs of students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. Each topic builds upon previously developed material to demonstrate the cohesiveness and structure of mathematics. The second edition contains detailed updates and accuracy revisions to address comments and suggestions from users. Dozens of faculty experts worked through the text, exercises and problems, graphics, and solutions to identify areas needing improvement. Though the authors made significant changes and enhancements, exercise and problem numbers remain nearly the same in order to ensure a smooth transition for faculty. The first edition of Elementary Algebra by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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Contemporary Mathematics
Donna Kirk; Barbara Boschmans; Brian Beaudrie; Matthew Cathey · OpenStax, Rice University
Contemporary Mathematics is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements for a liberal arts mathematics course. This resource provides stand-alone sections with a focus on showing relevance in the features as well as the examples, exercises, and exposition. Contemporary Mathematics integrates technology applications, projects, and highlights a diverse group of contributors to mathematics, statistics, and related fields.
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Concepts of Biology
Nick Reeves; Jean DeSaix; Barbara Kuehner; Brenda Leady · OpenStax, Rice University
Concepts of Biology is designed for the typical introductory biology course for nonmajors, covering standard scope and sequence requirements. The text includes interesting applications and conveys the major themes of biology, with content that is meaningful and easy to understand. The book is designed to demonstrate biology concepts and to promote scientific literacy.
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College Success Concise
Amy Baldwin; Lisa August; James Bennett; Larry Buland · OpenStax, Rice University
OpenStax College Success Concise serves First Year Experience, Student Success, and College Transition courses, and can also be used as a supplementary resource in courses across the curriculum. With the input of hundreds of instructors and academic success experts, the authors carefully prioritized the most critical topics to align to briefer courses. The offering covers material such as college culture, time management, mindset, study skills, test preparation, financial literacy, health, and planning for the future. While much of the material is very similar to the original College Success book, this version was holistically edited and updated. Users will see additions such as a new section on group work and greatly expanded coverage of stress management and wellbeing. While College Success Concise is a self-contained work with a logical flow and narrative, our open (CC BY-NC-SA) license and multiple formats allow instructors and students to utilize content from the original College Success text, as well. Ancillaries such as the Instructor’s Manual, Test Bank, and Lecture Slides will specifically support College Success Concise.
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College Success
Amy Baldwin; Lisa August; James Bennett; Sabrina Mathues · OpenStax, Rice University
OpenStax College Success is a comprehensive and contemporary resource that serves First Year Experience, Student Success, and College Transition courses. Developed with the support of hundreds of faculty and coordinators, the book addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities of today’s diverse students. Engagement, self-analysis, personal responsibility, and student support are reflected throughout the material. College Success also includes an array of student surveys and opinion polls, and OpenStax will regularly provide the results to adopting faculty. Based on OpenStax’s open (CC BY-NC-SA) license and its wide array of formats, faculty may remix and reuse these elements according to their approach. OpenStax textbooks are always free online, and as a PDF. Robust instructor ancillaries will include lecture slides, an instructor resource manual, a test bank, and other resources.
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College Physics For AP® Courses 2e
Gregg Wolfe; Erika Gasper; John Stoke; Julie Kretchman · OpenStax, Rice University
College Physics for AP® Courses 2e is designed to engage students in their exploration of physics and help them apply these concepts to the Advanced Placement® test. Because physics is integral to modern technology and other sciences, the book also includes content that goes beyond the scope of the AP® course to further student understanding. The AP® Connection in each chapter directs students to the material they should focus on for the AP® exam, and what content — although interesting — is not necessarily part of the AP® curriculum. This book is Learning List-approved for AP® Physics courses and meets the scope and sequence for these courses. The first edition of College Physics for AP® Courses by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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College Physics 2e
Paul Peter Urone; Roger Hinrichs; Kim Dirks; Manjula Sharma · OpenStax, Rice University
College Physics 2e introduces topics conceptually and progresses through clear explanations in the context of career-oriented, practical applications, and meets the scope and sequence of an algebra-based physics course. The narrative of physics and scientific discovery has been even further expanded to focus on including more diverse contributors to the field. Building on the success of the first edition the authors have increased focus on interdisciplinary connections, including enhancements to biological and medical applications. The problem solving approach has been revised to further unify conceptual, analytical, and calculation skills within the learning process, the authors have integrated a wide array of strategies and supports throughout the text for students. The first edition of College Physics by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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College Algebra 2e with Corequisite Support
Jay Abramson; Sharon North · OpenStax, Rice University
College Algebra 2e with Corequisite Support integrates comprehensive algebraic principles with effective foundational review. Each textbook section is paired with a thoughtfully developed, topically aligned skills module that prepares students for the course material. The modules include conceptual overviews, worked examples, and guided practice; they incorporate relevant material from OpenStax’s Developmental Math series. To offer the most flexibility as possible, the material within College Algebra 2e with Corequisite Support will be available in several formats. The skills modules can be downloaded and/or printed for use in classes, workshops, or tutoring sessions, and will be provided as both Word and PDF files. The College Algebra 2e with Corequisite Support revision focused on improving relevance and representation as well as mathematical clarity and accuracy. Introductory narratives, examples, and problems were reviewed and revised using a diversity, equity, and inclusion framework. Many contexts, scenarios, and images have been changed to become even more relevant to students’ lives and interests. To maintain our commitment to accuracy and precision, examples, exercises, and solutions were reviewed by multiple faculty experts. All improvement suggestions and errata updates from the first edition were considered and unified across the different formats of the text. The first edition of College Algebra with Corequisite Support by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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College Algebra 2e
Jay Abramson; Valeree Falduto; Rachael Gross; David Lippman · OpenStax, Rice University
College Algebra 2e provides a comprehensive exploration of algebraic principles and meets scope and sequence requirements for a typical introductory algebra course. The modular approach and richness of content ensure that the book addresses the needs of a variety of courses. College Algebra 2e offers a wealth of examples with detailed, conceptual explanations, building a strong foundation in the material before asking students to apply what they’ve learned. The College Algebra 2e revision focused on improving relevance and representation as well as mathematical clarity and accuracy. Introductory narratives, examples, and problems were reviewed and revised using a diversity, equity, and inclusion framework. Many contexts, scenarios, and images have been changed to become even more relevant to students’ lives and interests. To maintain our commitment to accuracy and precision, examples, exercises, and solutions were reviewed by multiple faculty experts. All improvement suggestions and errata updates from the first edition were considered and unified across the different formats of the text. The first edition of College Algebra by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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Clinical Nursing Skills
Christy Bowen; Taranee Albert; Mary Anne Bera; Jessica Crockett · OpenStax, Rice University
Clinical Nursing Skills is designed to equip nursing students with the practical knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to provide comprehensive patient care. The material emphasizes the application of clinical judgment in a variety of settings, ensuring that students are prepared to deliver high-quality care across different patient populations and clinical scenarios. The content utilizes concepts promoting the development of clinical judgment by building upon the systematic model developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Clinical Nursing Skills provides detailed instructions on basic procedures such as hygiene, mobility, vital signs assessment, medication administration, and wound care. It also guides students through more complex skills, including intravenous therapy, catheterization, tracheostomy care, and emergency interventions. By integrating the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model, the material helps students recognize, analyze, prioritize, create, act, and evaluate outcomes in various clinical situations, fostering critical thinking and clinical decision making. By studying Clinical Nursing Skills, students will gain the confidence and competence needed to perform essential nursing tasks, make informed clinical decisions, and provide compassionate, patient-centered care, which will prepare students for success in their clinical rotations and future professional practice.
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Chemistry: Atoms First 2e
Jennifer Look; Paul Flowers; Allison Soult; Simon Bott · OpenStax, Rice University
Chemistry: Atoms First 2e is a peer-reviewed, openly licensed introductory textbook produced through a collaborative publishing partnership between OpenStax and the University of Connecticut and UConn Undergraduate Student Government Association. This text is an atoms-first adaptation of OpenStax Chemistry 2e. The intention of “atoms-first” involves a few basic principles: first, it introduces atomic and molecular structure much earlier than the traditional approach, and it threads these themes through subsequent chapters. This approach may be chosen as a way to delay the introduction of material such as stoichiometry that students traditionally find abstract and difficult, thereby allowing students time to acclimate their study skills to chemistry. Additionally, it gives students a basis for understanding the application of quantitative principles to the chemistry that underlies the entire course. It also aims to center the study of chemistry on the atomic foundation that many will expand upon in a later course covering organic chemistry, easing that transition when the time arrives. The second edition has been revised to incorporate clearer, more current, and more dynamic explanations, while maintaining the same organization as the first edition. Substantial improvements have been made in the figures, illustrations, and example exercises that support the text narrative. The first edition of Chemistry: Atoms First by OpenStax is available in web view here.
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Chemistry 2e
Paul Flowers; Don Frantz; Paul Hooker; George Kaminski · OpenStax, Rice University
Chemistry 2e is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the two-semester general chemistry course. The textbook provides an important opportunity for students to learn the core concepts of chemistry and understand how those concepts apply to their lives and the world around them. The book also includes a number of innovative features, including interactive exercises and real-world applications, designed to enhance student learning. The second edition has been revised to incorporate clearer, more current, and more dynamic explanations, while maintaining the same organization as the first edition. Substantial improvements have been made in the figures, illustrations, and example exercises that support the text narrative. Changes made in Chemistry 2e are described in the preface to help instructors transition to the second edition. The first edition of Chemistry by OpenStax is available in web view here.