Open Source

I have a very basic and limited knowledge about Open Source, but here is a little about what I do know.  Open Source makes the source code behind an application available to everyone.  A few of the major differences between Open Source applications and Proprietary apllications are the cost and the availability of the access.  Almost all of free software uses Open Source and allows anyone to openly access them.  On the other hand Proprietary software gives legal authority to the creator, and the creator of the software can legally exclude users, control access, and distribute the software as seen fit.  It is my understanding that most OS applications use General Public Liscences which are free, and copylefted instead of copyrighted. 

There are two OS apps that I think are useful in education, that I have used so far.  One is Moodle (like BlackBoard only free).  I really believe online courses are the way of the future, not only are they here to stay; I believe they will take over colleges, universities, and secondary education as we know it.  Getting students ahead of the curve by using Moodle is a great experience for students.  I also have used Open Office.  Sure it is not quite as good as MS Office, however it is free, and very comparable.  Students who can't afford MS Office need to be directed to this free resource for their home PC's.  Just because you have MS Office doesn't mean your students will at home. 

Here are the links where you can download these apps:
 http://moodle.org/

http://www.openoffice.org/