Open Source Educational Technology Model

Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this study is to develop a comprehensive educational technology model based entirely on Open Source Software (OSS) and recycled computer hardware. This project looks at the rapidly growing Open Source Softwarc movement in the context of education and identifies emerging technologies that help to cut costs and close the digital divide throughout the education system. Procedure: The implementation of this project is based on a review of the literature and it involved setting up a small open source computer lab using recycled hardware at the Hilltop Recovery Center in Middleton, California. This project also includes a study of an almost identical open source computer lab in the Rincon Valley School District in Santa Rosa, California. Included in this study are also two interviews of the directors of each organization for the inclusion of feedback and evaluation each open source educational model in action. Findings: Throughout the course of this project a number of significant findings have emerged. Due to the low costs associated with OSS and recycled hardware educational organizations can easily afford to increase technology access. Additionally, the energy costs when using thin-clients is cut in half when compared to traditional desktop systems. The costs of supporting Linux versus Windows or Mac is less due to not having to fix and maintain individual desktop systems, instead managing one server for multiple workstations. Recycling extends the life of older computer hardware in a thin client and terminal services environment addressing substantial ecological challenges related to electronic waste. An open source educational model running on recycled hardware is also highly scalable and easy to replicate. Conclusion: Modeling educational technology after the open source software movement levels the socio-economic playing field with respect to equal opportunity and access to technology. Adopting an open source educational model offers extraordinary potential for increasing technology access and developing a sustainable model for educational technology.