Creating Open Source Lecture Materials

Abstract

This chapter surveys recent and continuing trends in software tools for preparation of open courseware, in particular audiovisual lecture materials, documentaries and tutorials, and derivative materials. It begins by presenting a catalog of tools ranging from open source wikis and custom content management systems to desktop video production. Next, it reviews techniques for preparation of lecture materials consisting of five specific learning technologies: animation of concepts and problem solutions; explanation of code; video walkthroughs of system documentation; software demonstrations; and creation of materials for instructor preparation and technology transfer. Accompanying the description of each technology and the review of its state of practice is a discussion of the goals and assessment criteria for deployed courseware that uses those tools and techniques. Holistic uses of these technologies are then analyzed via case studies in three domains: artificial intelligence, computer graphics, and enterprise information systems. An exploration of technology transfer to college and university-level instructors in the information sciences then follows. Finally, effective practices for encouraging adoption and dissemination of lecture materials are then surveyed, starting with comprehensive, well-established open courseware projects that adapt pre-existing content and continuing through recent large-scale online courses aimed at audiences of tens to hundreds of thousands.