Frequently asked questions

eText is the shorthand term for electronic textbook (sometimes also described as an eBook). It is the digital version of a textbook, which can include other educational resources such as workbooks, problem sets, tutorials, videos, simulations, and interactive software.

eTexts are easy to access through the learning management system, environmentally friendly, promote collaborative learning, and offer several features that can enhance and enrich the learning environment. Some of these advantages include:

• instant access to content
• ability to incorporate multimedia learning resources
• powerful search functions
• digital options for more universal access
• students can highlight and annotate text

You will be able to access the eText online as long as you can access the course in Moodle. Access to eTexts can be extended past the course's contract end date by downloading VitalSource's Bookshelf, the platform through which you access eTexts (regardless of the publisher). Downloads will be available on up to 2 mobile devices and 2 computers for a period of between 6 years and perpetuity, depending on the publisher.

Depending on the file type, the eText will either replicate the printed page exactly, or make more efficient use of the material. In that case, the system chunks the data, shedding white space, moving straight to the next page. So, you may find that a search for page 123 actually takes you to page 119; this is the page number of the electronic file, but contains the same information as page 123 in the bound book (and downloaded copy).

VitalSource allows you to install Bookshelf^® to a maximum of two computers and two mobile devices. A record of the computers and mobile devices you have installed Bookshelf^® on is stored with your account information. You may de-authorize a computer or mobile device at any time in order to add a new machine. Computers should be de-authorized prior upgrading; otherwise one computer may use multiple authorizations.

No. AU has arranged both online and offline access. You may download the entire eText to read and work on offline.

eTexts may be viewed online for the period of time that a student has access to the course. Downloads will be available on up to 2 mobile devices and 2 computers for a period of between 6 years and infinitely, depending on the publisher. Like bound books the eTexts are the property of the student, subject to copyright laws.

While Kindle Fire is compatible with eTexts, Windows 8RT (RT only) is not. Please visit technical requirements for further details about specific compatibility.)

Printing limitations vary by publisher. In some cases, you can print the entire eText, but many publishers limit printing to a specific portion of the book (e.g., 10%). Publishers may also limit the number of pages that can be printed at one time.

Yes. Sections of text (as well as highlights and notes) can be copied into MS Word. The appropriate citation will automatically paste.

No. Learning resources fees remain the same for all courses.

If a student withdraws within 30 days, the digital rights to both the online and downloaded eTexts will expire. This does not affect the student's Bookshelf^® account, only the book(s) associated with that particular course.

Access the online version of the book using your link to the textbook in Moodle. You will see a message that the license is being updated, after which time you'll have access to the download again. If you encounter further difficulties, contact the Computing Services IT Help Desk.

• Undergraduate Faculty of Business Students, please contact business-support@athabascau.ca

Yes, AU does still provide access codes for any third-party resources that extend beyond the simple text by providing PIN codes for those course activities. As that code provides a link to the eText as well, students have two ways of seeing the book. They will benefit from having longer access to the eText by accessing the course and associated downloads through Moodle.

No. Students will continue to use the resources they were provided with at enrollment.

Students enrolled in courses that are part of AU’s eText initiative will not receive the bound book. AU has arranged for discounted books with several of the publishers however; the links are in your course site.

Unfortunately, this feature is not available in Bookshelf Mobile 4.0. However, you can still share and subscribe to notes and highlights via Bookshelf Online through your web browser on your mobile device. For instructions, see Making and Sharing Notes and Highlights in Bookshelf Online.