This week's readings and discussion were especially interesting. The readings discussed open courseware and MIT was cited as an excellent example of successfully implemented open courseware. I had heard of MIT's open courseware before and even navigated their web site to explore some of their offerings. More than 2,000 courses on the web! I found many courses that I would be interested in taking myself. I think they have opened the gateway to the enormous potential of open courseware to educate people on a variety of subjects all over the world. I think one important thing MIT has accomplished with this courseware is that it stands as a great example to other universities and learning institutions as to how they can soundly structure online learning courses.
One thing I had mentioned in my class group discussion is the desire for free online degrees from institutions such as MIT. In this discussion, I learned that a few universities in the Netherlands do have such programs. However, an issue that was brought up concerning free online degrees in the U.S., was one of funding. I guess even with good ideas, everything comes back to money one way or the other.
Overall, I am curious to see how open educational resources evolve over the next several years. To think of the potential not only in providing individual courses, but also in teaching individual concepts that can aid student learning and growth. I think such resources could be vital even in aiding parents to help their children with their homework in understanding difficult or misunderstood concepts.
This week we were introduced to two technologies that I had never heard of before--UStream and Slide Rocket. UStream has great potential as an educational tool. I can see where it would be particularly beneficial in broadcasting lectures, workshops, or tutorials. The only thing of concern would be the visibility of inappropriate content on the web site. However, it really all depends on the students who will be viewing the broadcast.
As for Slide Rocket, what I really like about this program is the ability to create some really sharp looking slide shows. There are many options here that aren't available with many other presentation programs. I enjoyed the presentation of this program and look forward to exploring more of it for myself.
