I received this request from Fred in NC but not sure what to tell him…

I am looking to open source programs to upstart a distance learning program . . . Are there any sources that I could look into to get a better idea of how I should start.

Suggestions? Some obvious ideas that come to mind for me are using Moodle, DimDim (interesting discussion in this article). This article from Educause is also great reading, in particular:

Many universities have opted for open source learning management systems, in particular. Advantages that have tipped the balance toward open source include the following:

• The absence of a license fee. Most universities annually pay large sums to software companies to use their products, but open source licenses are free.
• Flexibility. Open source products are customizable and can involve third parties. New features and tools can be imported from the open source community.
• Service continuity. The huge collaborative network of the open source community minimizes, although it does not eliminate, the risk of discontinued service. Volunteer help is available through open source support systems such as forums.
• Continuous improvement. Extensive collaboration ensures that software products keep improving. Programmers from different institutions and organizations, along with volunteers, contribute freely to projects.
• Tax benefits. Governments of many countries have implemented tax-exemption policies to boost open source projects, although the governmental role in promoting open source software is controversial.⁶

Read more….

• FOSS in Distance Education
• How the Open Source Movement Has Changed Education
• OpenSource Africa – Kewl Education (interesting site to visit!)

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