The University of Edinburgh: Open baked-in. Connecting the Opens Case Study 1

Open Science, Open Education, Open Access and other Opens are gaining ground in Europe, but they are usually pursued separately, by different people, policies, and infrastructures. SPARC Europe's Connecting the Opens programme sets out to change that. Bringing these agendas together instead of managing them in isolation can create synergies that lead to a more resilient and equitable higher education ecosystem. The programme supports institutions in collaborating across their open initiatives, helps policymakers and practitioners navigate the open landscape, and builds shared goals through collaboration and knowledge exchange. This case study is the first in a series of practical, real-world examples showing how institutions can connect the opens within their own contexts. Like the Connecting the Opens leadership series, the case studies draw on interviews with rectors, chancellors, library directors, deans and other leaders across Europe. This case study looks at the University of Edinburgh, how connecting the opens is embedded in the institution’s culture through aligned open access and open education policies, a converged unit responsible for both research and education, practical incentives for students and academics, and a small team that enables people to work openly themselves.