Open Source as appropriate technology for global education

Citation

Carmichael P & Honour L (2002) Open Source as appropriate technology for global education. International Journal of Educational Development, 22 (1), pp. 47-53. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0738-0593%2800%2900077-8

Abstract
Economic arguments for the adoption of ‘open source’ software in business have been widely discussed. In this paper we draw on personal experience in the UK, South Africa and Southeast Asia to forward compelling reasons why open source software should be considered as an appropriate and affordable alternative to the currently prevailing dependency on large commercial organisations and proprietary products in the field of education. The dynamic and responsive nature of 'open source' software and the existence of freely available documentation and online communities offers an opportunity for educators, network administrators and software developers to participate in the development of resources appropriate to local needs while developing their own skills. We identify a range of critical development tools such as Perl and Linux, alongside a more specific application, Basic Support for Cooperative Work, which has great versatility for customising to fulfil specific educational needs and for the development of collaborative on-line learning communities.

Keywords
open source software; appropriate technology; virtual communities; internet groupware; collaborative workspace

Journal
International Journal of Educational Development: Volume 22, Issue 1