Open standards versus open source in e-learning

James Dalziel, Director, Macquarie University E-learning Centre of Excellence (MELCOE)

1/01/2005
(Original Publish Date: 2000)

In this paper, the author addresses the value of open standards versus open source in e-learning. The author begins by discussing three strands of development in e-learning: development of e-learning technology as a recognized industry; attempts to create open standards for e-learning software and content; and the wider open source software movement. The author states that these strands, which were largely independent in the 1990s, are now converging. The author poses several questions for the future of e-learning development, including, "Which is more important - open source or open standards?" and, "Where to next with open source and open standards in e-learning?" and offers possible answers for each.