Blazing a Trail in Open: The UTA Libraries OER Trailblazer Badge Program

At UTA Libraries, we aim to create creative and meaningful access to knowledge. The OER Trailblazer Badge Program is an exciting step in that mission, designed not just for Mavericks on campus but also for the wider community. 

This initiative is more than a set of courses or resources. It represents a shift in learning, teaching and sharing knowledge. As Megan Zara, OER Librarian, explains: 

“The OER Trailblazer program is more than just a program; it’s a shift in how we educate, do outreach and support open education,” Zara said. “We really wanted to move from just working with faculty on a single project to opening up this resource to the community. That way, we have different entry points into the open movement, open education, open source and open access in general.” 

A Program for Everyone 

At the heart of the Trailblazer initiative is a self-paced, no-cost badge program delivered through Canvas at UTA. Participants register through the OER subject guide, gain access to modules and activities, and connect with the Libraries’ OER team for guidance. 

Zara notes that the program is designed to be flexible and comprehensive: 

“We have some learning activities and connections to our department for engagement. We walk people through learning about open and how they can engage, whether they want to be advocates and mentors, or whether they want to create, build and share.” 

To meet the needs of different learners, the program offers two tracks: 

• Educator Track: Faculty and instructors can explore open pedagogy, renewable assignments and student collaboration. These badges also count toward professional development, showing leadership in open education.
• Student Track: Students engage with open projects, work with faculty and practice skills that prepare them for the workplace. Each badge is aligned with NACE Competencies, helping students develop collaboration, technology, communication and leadership abilities. 

Zara emphasizes the importance of including students: 

“I feel like we’ve done a great job getting faculty on board, but we haven’t really inspired students to do the same,” Zara said. “Students being in on the conversation is important to help faculty understand the ‘why.’ We wanted to create a well-rounded open community that’s not just focused on OER for faculty; it should be a community thing.” 

Real Skills, Real Credentials 

Trailblazer badges are issued through Credly, a trusted credentialing platform. Each badge includes verified metadata so that participants can display it on LinkedIn, resumes and digital portfolios. 

“Our badges are legit,” Zara said. “They’re going to go through Credly with all the metadata so people can put them on their LinkedIn and resumes. For students, we’ve built in workplace skills, like collaboration and presenting, so they’re not just learning about OER, they’re preparing for jobs and opportunities in the future.” 

Why It Matters 

The Trailblazer Program connects directly to UTA’s commitment to student success, innovation and community engagement. In spring 2025 alone, students saved $5.4 million because faculty adopted or created low and no-cost materials. But cost savings are only the beginning. 

“Open education is a great place for students to practice the soft skills employers value,” Zara explains. “They’re learning things they’ll use in the classroom now, but also skills that will benefit them in the workplace and throughout life.” 

For UTA Libraries, Trailblazers also strengthen the support system for OER faculty. New grant applications will incorporate badges, ensuring participants are better prepared and supported. 

The program is also open to community members across the Metroplex and beyond, making it a valuable resource for local educators, professionals, and lifelong learners who want to connect with open practices. 

“We wanted this program to be a way to bring everyone into the open movement, not just faculty, but students and the wider community,” Zara said.  

Get Started 

Joining the program is simple and there’s no cost. 

1. Visit the OER Subject Guide.
2. Complete the quick registration form.
3. Access the Canvas course and start earning your first badge. 

Be a Trailblazer 

The OER Trailblazer Badge Program is more than an academic opportunity; it’s a chance to join a growing community dedicated to open, accessible and innovative education. 

“If you’d like to join the OER Trailblazer Badge Program, all you have to do is go to the OER subject guide at the UTA Libraries website, fill out the registration form and get started,” Zara said. 

Take the first step. Earn your badge. Be a Trailblazer.