FLOSScom: Using the principles of informal learning environments of FLOSS communities to improve ICT supported formal education 

Project activities:

• Summer University On-campus event
  
• Summer University 2007: "Learning the Open Source Way"
• Open Source Workshop at AUTh: "Learning with/in FLOSS"

Project Description:

Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) communities are not only an exemplar for successful software development, but also for well working learning environments. Yet little is known on how learning occurs in the FLOSS communities and what are the underlying success factors.

FLOSS communities might be seen as an example of ˇBest Practice˘ in how ICT can help to improve education in terms of learning processes, up to date content and open inclusive education where no learner is excluded from participation.

This project aims:

• To identify the factors that contribute to successful knowledge construction in informal learning communities, such as the FLOSS communities.

• To analyze the effectiveness of a FLOSS-like learning community in a formal educational setting.

• To provide case studies, scenarios and guidelines for teachers and decision-makers on how to successfully embed such learning communities within formal educational environments to enhance student progression, retention and achievement.

• To evaluate the project and disseminate the results to the wider community.

The project activities will include the review of available data, elements of action research and open debates with relevant stakeholders, including teachers, students, and members of informal learning environments like in the FLOSS communities.

As a result of the project the different stakeholders in the education area are provided with case studies, scenarios and guidelines assisting them to improve formal ICT enriched education.