How LUPD works
Lynn University Library’s director, Amy Filiatreau, heads LUDP.
Library staff members assist with editing, design and compliance issues.
LUDP provides authors with instructions on the workflow for each stage of the creation process.
After a book proposal has been approved, the author receives a Mac laptop, which is necessary to use iBooks Author.
LUDP provides other assistance for faculty authors, including training programs, an in-house style guide and information on copyright and intellectual property.
To fully take advantage of the iBooks format, LUDP encourages authors to incorporate interactive features like:
- Videos
- Quizzes
- Widgets
- Web links
- Games
- iPad apps
Once an author has completed all the required steps and the iBook has been approved, Lynn University pays the author for the book.
Although LUDP focuses on providing value to students rather than generating revenue, some of its iBooks may be purchased by the general public through iTunes. Both the author and the university receive a portion of these sales.
Results
Lynn University’s iPad program and LUDP have increased its reputation and student satisfaction.
In 2015, the initiative helped earn it the 21st spot for Most Innovative School in U.S. News & World Report’s Best College rankings.
Lynn’s 2016 survey of students found that:
- 63% thought Multi-Touch books were more effective than traditional paper books.
- 89% felt the iPad would allow them to connect better with classmates.
- 97% anticipated the iPad would contribute to their learning experience.
- 77% said the iPad program influenced their decision to attend Lynn University.
During the 2016-17 school year, LUDP’s faculty-written iBooks saved students around $250,000, equivalent to 90% of textbook costs.
Apple has also named Lynn University an Apple Distinguished School three times in a row (as of 2017).
An additional benefit: because iPads have reduced the need for PCs across campus, Lynn has been able to reallocate some space for other purposes, such as expanding its career center.
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Images courtesy of Lynn University.
