Scott McNealy, the CEO of Sun Microsystems, has long promoted the use of open-source software, in which volunteers work collaboratively online to build and improve computer code. Now he hopes to bring the same basic concept to the development of online teaching materials. In a keynote speech on Wednesday at the Educause annual meeting in Orlando, Mr. McNealy announced the creation of a nonprofit organization called the Global Education and Learning Community, which will provide a framework for educators to work together to develop and distribute educational resources online. For now the project is focusing on K-12 education, but in an interview after his speech, Mr. McNealy said that he hopes to extend the system to higher education eventually. "It’s optional. No parent, teacher, or student has to use GELC content, but it’s there," he added. "It’s just a broader and deeper and richer platform on which to build your curriculum, and at zero cost."
Developing online and blended learning programs requires research and collaboration. Learn how top technology companies are partnering with campuses across the country to advance online learning as it becomes an increasingly important aspect of higher education.