The basic idea is a simple one. We intend to take an existing open source application that we developed at UWC, a sophisticated learning management system called KEWL (Knowledge Environment for Web-based Learning), and use it as the basis for building a next-generation learning management system. To achieve the next generation system, it will be necessary to modularize the existing system and convert it entirely to PHP, an open source programming language. This will give us the basis from which to build the most advanced learning management system in the world, using largely talent that exists within African higher education, other organizations, the Diaspora, businesses, and partners around the world.
Using this tool, we will build a core of developers in African institutions, mainly universities but also other organizational structures. This core will do the conversion of KEWL to PHP, and initiate the development of new cutting edge tools based on sound educational practices. It will be a bringing together of cutting edge educational research with cutting edge computer science to produce the world?s most advanced learning management system. One the first working code is released; other institutions and individual volunteers will be encouraged to volunteer or contrinute to the project in true open source community fashion. In this way, the code will grow rapidly in relation to the original core funded group.
Best practices from commercial software engineering will be made available, and developers in Africa will have opportunities to be exposed to the latest software development techniques. Students in higher education, including those participating in short term training programmes, will be exposed to industry standard practices, as well as to learn from the source code created in this project. This will allow the talent pool in Africa to grow, and contribute to development in Africa.
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