Synchronous learning is an integral part of the virtual classroom, without question. This module has given me the opportunity to explore and even utilize some synchronous applications along the way!
When would an open source application take precedence over a commercial product?
As is often the case, it's often all about the money! Open source applications are free to the user and therefore are sometimes the only choice when under a strict budget. It would also take precedence if the product would only be utilized on a small scale. Perhaps an online course or program choice did not have the need to put together synchronous applications on a regular basis.
Using these quests as a point of reference, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the open source versus commercial software in relation to synchronous learning.
Open Source System Strengths: Free to utilize; Fairly easy to acquire through downloading
Open Source System Weaknesses: No consistent technical support; May not have specialized features you may need
Commercial System Strengths: Commonality within larger and more sophisticated organizational needs; Knowledgeable technical support and follow up when encountering problems
Commercial System Weaknesses: Costly/cost prohibitive to utilize for either organization or student, or both
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