OPENCOURSEWARE Meaning and
Definition
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Opencourseware, commonly referred to as OCW, is a term that describes a form of online educational resource that allows users to access and utilize educational materials freely and without any cost. It typically refers to course materials, such as lectures, readings, assignments, and other supporting documentation, that are made available by educational institutions or educators for widespread use.
The concept of opencourseware was popularized by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2002 when they decided to publish and share their course materials online. The creation and sharing of opencourseware aims to promote the notion of open education and increase access to knowledge for everyone, regardless of their geographic location or financial means.
Opencourseware often utilizes open licenses, such as Creative Commons, which allow for the easy distribution, reuse, and modification of the materials, as long as proper attribution is given. This openness enables educators and learners to adapt and customize the resources to fit their specific needs, making it a flexible and versatile educational tool.
Opencourseware platforms and repositories have now emerged on the internet, hosting thousands of courses and resources from various educational institutions and individuals. These platforms provide a centralized location for users to easily search, access, view, and download opencourseware materials.
Opencourseware has had a significant impact on education, democratizing access to high-quality educational resources and fostering lifelong learning. It has become an important tool for self-study, supplementary learning, and even full-blown courses, enabling individuals of all ages and backgrounds to expand their knowledge and skills in a variety of subjects.
Etymology of OPENCOURSEWARE
The word "opencourseware" is a compound term consisting of "open" and "courseware".
- "Open" originated from the Old English word "open" meaning "not closed or blocked". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "opan", which has the same meaning. The word has been in use since the 13th century.
- "Courseware" is a combination of "course" and "ware". "Course" developed from the Old French word "cours", meaning "running" or "flowing". It can be traced back to the Latin word "cursus", also meaning "a running" or "a race". "Ware" comes from the Old English word "waru", which means "merchandise" or "articles".
