What is free content?
WikiEducator Tutorials | ||
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Tutorial 12 | Introduction | Freedom as concept | Free content defined | Licenses | Free software and Free content | Summary & FAQs | |
Have you ever wondered about the following issues:
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These are examples of the kinds of questions we receive at WikiEducator on a regular basis. While there are no simple answers to all these questions, this tutorial will shed some light on these issues from the perspective of the values which underpin our community.
In your view, what does the "free" mean in the concept "free content"?
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The WikiEducator community believes that education is a common good, and that all educators should have the freedom to teach with the technologies and contents of their choice.
Consequently, for WikiEducators - free refers to the liberty to adapt, modify and use content without restriction. The fact that no royalties or licensing costs are associated with use of WikiEducator materials, is an incidental advantage and not the reason for our existence.
Distinguishing between free and non-free content is riddled with complexity and often leads to passionate and emotive debate. In this tutorial we will unpack what free content means for this community.
Take a look at the photograph of the Free Speech Area at the Los Angeles Valley College.
In a face-to-face seminar you may want to discuss this in small groups, alternatively use the discussion forum specified by your facilitators for the online version of the course. |