Why do professors require new textbooks?

Many companies will send professors examination copies of textbooks to convince them to adopt them for a course, and if the professor deems that either (1) it is a good book, or (2) the other book is not a good book and so are willing to try something new, then they may adopt the new textbook.

Can professors make you buy their book?

No. Not under most circumstances. Assigning one’s own textbook (or “course packet,” a collection of readings that the professor prepares specifically for a course) is, on the face of it, ethical. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) agrees in their statement on the issue.

Do professors keep old syllabi?

Sometimes they’re kept and carefully followed; sometimes they’re tossed away when the student decides not to take it after all. Professors often post their syllabi online.

Should I email my professor about textbooks?

You can send them an email about it so that you are prepared when the semester starts. You may also choose to wait until the first class to approach them about it. Some professors will address the different versions of the textbook while going over the syllabus on the first day.

Can professors assigning their own textbooks?

The right of individual professors to select their own instructional materials, a right protected under principles of academic freedom, should be limited only by such considerations as quality, cost, availability, and the need for coordination with other instructors or courses.

How much do professors make off textbooks?

On average, a textbook author can make anywhere from five to 15 percent in royalties for their textbooks, according to an article written by Dr. David Rees of Southern Utah University. So if a University Math II textbook costs $110, at 10 percent per 30 students in their class, that’s $330.

Can a professor go against their syllabus?

In most cases instructors are expected to follow the syllabus, but the goal of an instructor for a class is to help the students learn the material and to be fair. This means that the syllabus can and does change. There are many reasons a university instructor might deviate from the syllabus.

Do professors have to give a syllabus?

Syllabi also allow students to decide what extracurriculars they can and cannot handle, as a student expecting a large number of papers or exams might have to skip out on a club sport or swap out the class. But many schools still do not have policies that require professors to submit their syllabi before classes begin.

How do you email your professor about a textbook?

Tips for emailing your professor:

1. Use your academic account.
2. Make the subject line clear.
3. Use a professional greeting.
4. Thoroughly identify yourself.
5. Remain formal.
6. Communicate clearly and concisely.
7. Be polite.
8. End with a formal acknowledgment.

Are textbook requirements the same for online and on-campus students?

Requirements and costs aren’t always the same for online and on-campus students. Don’t assume that an online student’s textbook requirements and costs will match those of on-ground students, experts say. Make sure you research this information for your class section specifically, and reach out to the professor with any questions.

Should you buy used college textbooks online?

For any student who decides to get used textbooks online, “You want to buy early and away from the typical on-ground university start time.

Should you keep a textbook after you graduate?

You should weigh whether to keep a textbook as a career resource. As Kizer does, students may want to keep textbooks after a course is over if it relates directly to their current or future job.

Do I need to purchase a print textbook?

Print textbooks are sometimes required but may also be available in the digital format.