Pros and Cons of Open Source Software

There are so many software options available for school systems. How do schools begin to choose the most effective options? Picciano (2011) explains that open source software is available to the public and does not have licensing limitations for use, modification, or redistribution.  So why spend money on software with comparable products when open source software is available for schools to use? Both open source and commercial software has advantages and disadvantages. Schools must consider all of their options to make informed decisions about software.

The following video provides a brief explanation of open software.

According to Tang (2014), while there are many advantages to open source software, the biggest attraction to the general public is unlimited access to high quality software without a license fee. Other advantages include lesser hardware and software cost, high quality programs, and no vendor contracts. Tang (2014) explains that less hardware power is needed to complete the same tasks compared to hardware power utilizing commercial software. As a result, consumers can use older or cheaper hardware to run the open source software. Most open source software is less prone to viruses because developers and users can modify the programs to update performance and security, source software, and make changes. Tang (2014) states that users of open source software are not dependent on the vendor for products and services. Additionally, users can continue a program even when the company or author is no longer interested in supporting the product.

The phrase “there is no such thing as a free lunch” applies to open source software. Tang (2014) lists the disadvantages including no free support, lower security, and high maintenance overhead. According to Picciano (2011), open source software comes with limited documentation to provide support, causing most users to rely on the frequently asked questions. Some open source software companies will provide minimal support or deluxe versions for a fee. Due to limited support and lower security, there are indirect costs associated with open source software, especially for vital software tools. Picciano (2011) explains that schools who utilize open source software must hire a competent in-house computer programming staff to ensure the programs are working and the data is secure. High maintenance overhead will deter many school systems from using open source software within their district.

Open source software provides school systems with a valuable alternative to commercial software. Although open source software is a viable option for schools, staff with technical skills to continue a secure program is imperative. District and school leaders must consider all options when determining the best software solution.

Picciano, A. G. (2011). Educational leadership and planning for technology 

            (5th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Socialsquare (2014, March 7). What is open source explained in lego. [Video 

           file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8fHgx9mE5U

Tang, A. (2014). Top advantages and disadvantages of open software. 

           Retrieved from https://besthostingsearch.net/tutorial/open-source-

           software-advantage-disadvantage/

The Internet and Education

               As technology has revolutionized the 20th and 21st century, one may assume that technology has made a tremendous impact in education. Even though technology is constantly changing, few schools have successfully integrated technology into the curriculum. A typical classroom in the 21st century does not look much different than a classroom from the 1990s. Educators must reflect on the processes of integrating technology into the classroom to provide 21st century learners with the skills they need to be successful. The following video by AITSL (2012) explains that by incorporating new technology into the curriculum, teachers will encourage and facilitate students to become lifelong learners who explore and investigate knowledge.

     

            Picciano (2011) states that since the 1990s, the estimated number of Internet users has grown exponentially. There is a frequent disconnection between the way a teacher presents material and the way students are engaged in content. Today’s classrooms should be globalized and educators are responsible to ensure students are learning inside and outside of the classroom. Picciano (2011) describes numerous ways to utilize the Internet in education including email, information navigation, and blogging. Twenty first century learners are highly motivated by technology and teachers must constantly evaluate their teaching methods to ensure all students are prepared.
             Email applications allow educators to explore numerous options to integrate technology in instruction using a collaborative approach. Picciano (2011) explains that global email applications can be utilized around the world and assist in developing skills such as reading, writing, and researching with minimal cost. Organizations including NASA, National Geographic Society, and Kids Network provide teachers with email activities. Additionally, Kidlink offers students world-wide communications through email and discussion groups.

            While not all classrooms are equipped with the latest technology such as interactive boards, iPads, or iPods, most classrooms have desktop or laptop computers. Picciano (2011) states that information navigation allows teachers to provide students with activities to become more familiar with the Internet by researching a specific topic. For example, educators can create WebQuests on a topic for students to research through reliable sources. WebQuests previously created by other educators are available for students to explore a particular topic or subject. Internet scavenger hunts are important because it allows students to become connected to the Internet in meaningful ways while teaching important skills.

            The majority of students are less than excited to write in the classroom, but technology allows students to approach writing in engaging ways. According to Pappas (2013), blogging is a great educational tool when used effectively in the classroom. Blogging services such as Edublog, Kidblog, and WordPress offer numerous options for students and teachers. The Common Core standards and The No Child Left Behind Act requires literacy to be embedded across the curriculum. Providing engaging opportunities such as publishing, writing, and educating others about a specific topic through blogging will attract students to write. Teachers can also use blogs to publish assignments, upload resources, and send reminders to parents and students.

              Simply purchasing technology is not sufficient. Integrating technology in the classroom must be embedded in all subject areas by using multiple forms. Students should be able to use the technology without a major change in instruction or “going to the computer lab.” According to Robinson (2012), teachers must get to know their students to determine their interests, facilitate partnering activities, guide students through their learning, foster global connections with their peers, and motivate students to interact with various forms of technology. Providing students with technology to engage in the curriculum will result in students who are prepared for the 21st century. 

References

AITSL (2012, May 7). 21^st Century Education [Video file]. Retrieved from 
           https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA1Aqp0sPQo

Pappas, C. (2013). How to use blogs in the classroom. Retrieved from            

           http://elearningindustry.com/how-to-use-blogs-in-the-classroom

Picciano, A. G. (2011). Educational leadership and planning for

           technology (5th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Robinson, J. (2012). 5 things teachers (and administrators) can do to 
            make learning real in their classrooms. Retrieved from http:
            //the21stcenturyprincipal.blogspot.com/2012/08/5-things-
            teachers-and-administrators.html