What would I do differently? What we've done is the model I discussed further up. We've developed 10 courses for about 800 hours of learning. It's not a huge amount but it's enough to explore an OER model. Done again with the same limitations on resources I'd explore, say 3, significantly different models concurrently and then build on the findings combining the best of each.
e.g.
- An open wiki model
- A RSS based framework
- The modular but still LMS centered approach we've taken
The purpose of our OER project is to determine a sustainable model. In my view the business case for OERS is at the macro or pan institutional level. Individual institutional efforts tend to be a form of marketing rather than truly free open fit for purpose courseware developments and hence the problem of NC restrictions. That's the supply side though.
On the demand side “the nut we still haven't cracked in the free content movement is the value proposition at the individual educator level. The “costs” of remixing in terms of time, ego (psychological ownership) etc. must be less than the real and perceived benefits.”
Part of the problem I see is that the cost of course materials is, more often than not, borne by the student in the form of text-books or course fees when digital library resources come into play. The academic writes the text, gets kudos and small returns while the publishing house receives the profit. In this scenario the educator is rewarded for being published certainly in terms of their research credentials. Open Journals are on the rise but it still doesn't crack that nut. In the music industry remixes ( in essence mash-ups) are well established and musicians are credited with that skill. We need leading institutions to start publishing research and commissioning courseware in open formats and provide the recognition. So we're back at the supply side and the need for this movement to be embraced at a macro level. I've been saying as much to the Ministry of Education here lately!
This is why initiatives such as Wikieducator are so important.
Cheers
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