Introduction to Business – Open Textbook Library

Reviewed by Jordan Mays, Adjunct Instructor, Oakland City University on 1/22/19

Comprehensiveness

rating:
5
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As a textbook targeted at an introductory course in business, the Introduction to Business – 2018 textbook provides a practical overview of various aspects of business over the course of 17 chapters. In addition, this textbook provides key terms (with definitions) at the end of each chapter, which is easier for students to access than looking at one large glossary at the end of a textbook.

Content Accuracy

rating:
5

The information in the textbook was accurate and reviewed my a large number of professionals as referenced at the beginning of the textbook. The information utilized a fact presenting format that steers clear of unbiased content.

Relevance/Longevity

rating:
5

As this book was created in 2018, the content is very much up to date and figures references are from 2017 or newer. Interestingly, the first time I opened the book it appeared to have an update as well which demonstrates the accuracy of the textbook and how the material is being periodically updated.

Clarity

rating:
4

The introduction to business – 2018 textbook introduces students to key terminology and jargon that will be continually referenced in future business courses. Some of these terms may be new to students with little exposure prior to the introduction to business course, but the text does a good job of addressing these areas to prevent most issues.

Consistency

rating:
5

This textbook is consistent in the way that the book is created from beginning to end. The creation of each chapter and section are very well planned and executed.

Modularity

rating:
5

Additional reading components of this textbook enhance the topics covered by introducing real world examples and applications. These areas are separated by a shaded background which adds to the layout and creates a smooth flow from section to section.

Organization/Structure/Flow

rating:
4

The topics of this course cover many areas of business. In many ways it is up to the instructor to possibly see the organization of the textbook as either good or in need of improvement. Each concept is focused on its own chapter, so clearly assigning the chapters that are requested in a particular order can assist in the organization of the material. The last chapter of this textbook is perfect for summarizing the importance of an introduction to business course as it addresses the student’s future career in a business field.

Interface

rating:
5

Every image, chart, graph, etc. had no issues working on either the web version of the PDF version of this textbook. I do find it an advantage that the book is available in a PDF which allows students to download the content and review it offline, anywhere.

Grammatical Errors

rating:
5

No grammatical errors were noticeable to me as I reviewed this textbook.

Cultural Relevance

rating:
5

Every chapter in this textbook contained additional ethics assignments that help incorporate diversity and different dilemmas that businesses have faced over the years. These assignments along with examples in the textbook help to create a more inclusive learning experience for students.

Comments

The Introduction to Business – 2018 textbook offers many different options for additional study, research, questions, etc. at the end of each chapter. These options make it ideal for instructors that are not sure about utilizing an open textbook, as the quantity and quality of the assignments helps instructors customize the course textbook to fit their individual needs.