Work begins on open textbook exploring Earth’s dynamic systems in Oceania
Lead author, Dr Sophia TsangMonash University Library is supporting the creation of a new open-access textbook, Southern Spheres: An Introduction to Earth's Dynamic Systems in Australia and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa. This is the second successful proposal from the Library’s open educational resources (OERs) grant initiative.
Led by Dr Sophia Tsang from the School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment, Faculty of Science, the project brings together a cross-university team: Dr Allie Ford, Dr Rose Herbert, Dr Sophia Tsang, Rory McNab and Dr Rachel Kirby (Monash University), and Associate Professor Dan Hikuroa, Debbie Larkins and Dr Emma Sharp (Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland).
The textbook introduces Earth as a complex system. It explores questions such as: How did our planet form? What is it made of? How might it change in the short term and long term? What does this mean for us as humans living on Earth?
With a focus on case studies from Oceania, the book highlights Indigenous science and worldviews that have shaped and cared for these lands for hundreds to thousands of years. It will support introductory geology and physical geography units across Australia and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa.
Monash University Library will provide support in copyright, open licensing, and formatting and publishing through the OER platform Pressbooks. This includes ensuring accessibility compliance to help create a more inclusive student experience. The Library will also coordinate peer review and promotion as part of the grant.
Learn more about the initiative on the Library’s OER grant program webpage.