Massachusetts Maritime Academy Faculty Honored for Innovative Open Educational Resources

The Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) recently celebrated the achievements of Dr. Paul Szwed, a faculty member in the International Maritime Business (IMB) department, for his exceptional contribution to the development of Open Educational Resources (OER). Dr. Szwed was awarded the 2025 Silver Faculty OER Award by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s OER Advisory Council, acknowledging his efforts in creating freely accessible educational materials for his courses in Project Management Fundamentals and Supply Chain Management.

OER, defined as freely accessible text, media, and other digital assets, play a crucial role in democratizing education by removing financial barriers for students. Dr. Szwed’s initiative has saved his students hundreds of dollars per semester in textbook costs, a significant relief for many who might otherwise forego purchasing expensive textbooks. This achievement not only benefits MMA students but also extends to learners worldwide, thanks to the online availability of these resources.

The recognition of Dr. Szwed’s work underscores the importance of OER in today’s educational landscape. By providing high-quality, accessible learning materials, educators like Dr. Szwed are addressing the challenges of affordability and accessibility in higher education. This initiative aligns with MMA’s mission to support faculty and student curricular needs while promoting the sharing of knowledge for the betterment of all.

The impact of Dr. Szwed’s OER extends beyond immediate cost savings. It represents a shift towards more inclusive and equitable education, where financial constraints do not hinder access to learning resources. Furthermore, it sets a precedent for other educators to follow, encouraging the adoption and development of OER across disciplines and institutions. The Massachusetts Maritime Academy takes pride in Dr. Szwed’s accomplishments, which reflect the institution’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and the broader educational community.