What is it?

Inclusive Access programs are class-by-class programs that provide all enrolled students access to eBooks from traditional major publishers FREE on or before the first day of class until the add/drop date. The digital eBook is delivered through D2L. 

Why do instructors choose Inclusive Access materials?

Your instructor has taken steps to lower the price of required course materials for their class to all students while ensuring all students have access to the course materials on the first day of class.  Titles are dramatically discounted by the publishers when in an I.A. program and are the lowest prices available for the content that faculty prefer.

How will I know if my class is using Inclusive Access materials?

Prior to the add/drop deadline, students receive multiple communications via emails and in person from the Bookstore to alert them to the date by which they may easily opt out online and not purchase the materials if they so choose.

This is an example of an inclusive access email:

Welcome to Inclusive Access. You are receiving this email because you are enrolled in a section that includes an Inclusive Access item. You will have access to your course materials when you access your D2L for this course on the first day of your class.

Each enrolled student is automatically enrolled in the program to start. This program lowers the cost of required course materials and provides the resources needed to help you succeed. This program is OPTIONAL; however you must ACTIVELY OPT-OUT if you do not wish to participate in order to not be billed. No opt-out or refund will be granted after the deadline unless you drop the course. Note: If you opt-out of the program you will need to obtain the required course materials yourself.

Using the “Opt-Out” feature from the book listing IN D2L will disconnect your access to the course materials for this course which may include access to graded homework assignments. If you wish to opt-out, submit your opt-out request while in D2L by the drop/add deadline (5th day of the semester). A bookstore charge will be billed automatically to your student account for the materials. A refund to your account will be processed if you opt-out of the program.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected].

Good luck with your course and we hope you find this program helpful and a cost savings.

Ridgewater College Bookstore

[email protected]

320-222-5590

How much more affordable are inclusive access materials than traditional printed textbooks?

Students get digital course materials that are $50-$80 less—that’s a savings of up to 70%—than the price of a new hardcover printed textbook. The cost of course materials can be charged to their student account, which means students can use scholarships, grants, or loans. Without inclusive access, this money often isn’t available until a few weeks into the semester, thus delaying purchase.

How are these materials available at such deep discounts?

 By ensuring that every student has their course materials, publishers are able to offer discounts on digital course materials, and the savings is passed on to students. In addition to reduced cost, what are other student benefits? Studies show that students who use digital resources show measurable improvements in their grades, exam scores, retention rates, and graduation rates.

How long do students have access to the digital tools?

The length of the subscriptions to digital learning systems can vary depending on the course type, length, and type of learning materials. The subscription arrangements are made between the college or university and the publisher.

Can students choose not to participate?

Yes. Students have the option to opt-out of the program through the drop-add period. Once opted-out, access to the digital book and/or homework assignments is turned off.  Students are then responsible to purchase the required materials on their own.  Many of the students who request to opt-out ask to be re-admitted simply because they find that online prices for their course materials are higher than through the inclusive access program.