Pearson to Lower Cost of E-Books, Textbooks
Publishing giant Pearson Education Wednesday announced it would reduce the prices of its e-book rentals for more than 2,000 titles, providing students with savings of up to 50 percent on most of those titles later this month. Additionally, the company will introduce a new pilot program for print textbook rentals, which also promises costs savings on 50 of the most popular print textbook titles.
“Students have been clear in telling us they want more choices when selecting course materials,” said Tim Bozik, president of global product, in a news release. “We understand that many students are stretched financially and that college is a significant investment for them. Pearson has long been developing new ways to make college more affordable and more accessible.”
According a recent survey from CampusBooks, more than half of college students (55 percent of those surveyed) rent textbooks. Furthermore, the survey found that majority (66 percent) of students have opted out of purchasing a textbook due to the cost, which can deter them from taking a course.
Over the last year alone, Pearson has worked to reduce the cost of course materials for students. Through its Digital Direct Access model, for example, course materials are delivered directly to students on the first day of class, ensuring students are prepared. The model offers e-textbooks, online homework, tutorial and assessment products “up to 60 percent less than traditional print materials,” according to a company statement. In addition, Pearson in 2014 introduced Revel, a $65 online platform equipped with digital text and learning tools that can enliven course content with interactive media and assessments.
“Students and faculty both want materials that are flexible and compatible with laptops and mobile devices,” Bozik said in a statement. “It’s time to provide course materials that are both affordable and in-sync with how faculty and students teach and learn today.”
Further information is available on the Pearson site.
About the Author
Sri Ravipati is Web producer for THE Journal and Campus Technology. She can be reached at [email protected].