The first assigned topic is to discuss what I have learned about open source applications, freeware and proprietary applications. Open source applications provide users with the ability to change the source code to make the application do what you want it to do. It allows for republication of the application. The changed application can be sold but the source code is freely available for others to use and modify. Freeware is defined as software applications that are free but the source code cannot be altered and users cannot resell the applications. Creators hold copyright on freeware applications. Proprietary software is just what it sounds like—software that someone has protected by copyright. They are the only ones who can change or distribute the software. People purchase the right or license to use the software but cannot alter or resell the applications. Most open source applications are under a general public license which means if someone uses the free application code and makes modifications to it, they must offer the changed source code as a free open source application.
Open Source software can be a great alternative for those who are familiar with programming language and can make source code modifications. Although, classroom teachers are not usually familiar with changing source code, open source software can still supply teachers with applications they can use as is at no expense. The same is true for freeware. In today’s tight budgets, anything free that can fill a need is a plus! These applications offer educators a way to collaborate with others inside and outside their buildings. The following are a few examples of open source and free options.
https://bubbl.us/ is a concept mapping software program. You can create a basic concept map, download and/or print a completed map.
http://www.techsmith.com/jing/ Jing allows users to take a screenshot of what is on their computer screen and turn them into short videos. Very useful for instruction of how to do something in a program on the computer.
http://www.skype.com I love Skype for calling my daughter at college. I can see her not just hear her.
r-smart group. (2004). Open source – opens learning: Why open source makes sense for education.
At our school we did an entire day workshop over moodle. I liked it because it was easy for me to put some of the homework on-line for some of my homebound students and students that had ISS or OSS. It was way too hard to get the students caught up in class without the students doing some of their work at home. Moodle was great!
ReplyDeleteGreat summary and list of app!! Great note on using these apps as ways to collaborate with others inside and outside their buildings. I never thought of it that way.
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