C7. E-learning and E-science: Open Solutions for Inclusive Knowledge Societies: The ICT CFT Harnessing OER and the UNESCO Hydro Free and FOSS Platform of Experts (HOPE) Initiative

This session will examine the main challenges and opportunities  that Open Solutions (Open Educational Resources – OER, Free and  Open Source Software – FOSS, Open Access to peer-reviewed scientific journals – OA) can have on supporting inclusive Knowledge Societies. In particular the following will be discussed:

• An overview of the UNESCO Guidelines for ODL for Persons with Disabilities using Open Solutions, with a focus on the Open Solutions that are highlighted in this document. Open solutions include materials, strategies and technologies that are able to be used (and reused) by any person[1] to address accessibility to resources and learning experiences.  There are a number of levels of openness which include (in order of increasing openness) - reuse, redistribute, revise and remix[2].   Availability and access and universal participation are also vital components of open solutions. This is a document supports SDG 4.

How the UNESCO Hydro Free and Foss Platform of Experts (HOPE) Initiative could Promote of local learning, lower cost and local value creation (e.g. brings affordable Green Technologies), provide opportunities for income generation and employment (e.g. development of creative industries), Contribute to Education for All (EFA) Goals through at least Goal 3 by promoting learning and life skills for young people and adults and Goal 6 by improving the quality of education how open source tools for water management can support sustainable human development.  

[1] Abeywardena (2012)

[2] Hilton, Wiley, Stein & Johnson (2010)