getting published
Lack of innovation, fear of change | Jake Kimball | April 30, 2005
The TESL EJ Forum discussed the topic of textbook innovation and a lot of interesting ideas and experiences came up. The general consensus was that publishers have an aversion risk and thus prefer traditionally safe sellers to innovative texts--no matter how solid they may be pedagogically. I don't know the full cost of developing and marketing a new textbook series, but I'm sure it's a lot. I think run-of-the-mill textbooks don't require much teacher training, whereas an innovative TBL series would require too much teacher training to get off the ground. Also, traditional textbooks are comfortable and familiar, which stifles change. And change is a scary thing. Remember when the new MSc program and staff were announced? I think a lot of us were nervous about change.
Jake
Getting Published | Jerry Talandis Jr. | May 2nd, 2005
Hi Jake,
This message continues a discussion branch started by Jake, about the difficulties faced in trying to publish innovative teaching materials.
Thanks, Jake, for sending us that link to the TESL EJ Forum- it was very interesting reading. Seems like a real catch-22 situation- the publishing companies want innovation, but turn often it down when they get it.
I was wondering... has anyone on this program had any teaching materials published? If so, what was your experience, in brief? Did you face anything similar in your situation? Or, has anyone tried to publish something but without any luck? I'm curious either way because I have this fantasy of someday creating this great textbook and making tons of money! ;-)
Just how hard is it to get materials published?
Jerry
Japan
PS: I know former CP Simon Cole did a textbook on writing- I'm actually using it this year! If you're out there, Simon, it would be great to read your thoughts on that project.
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