This morning at a Professional Development event at Capilano University, I attended a talk by UBC's Brian Lamb. It was very inspiring and made me reassess blogging and its values. I'd never really been convinced of the merits of blogging, but Brian's examples changed my mind. He spoke of his Abject Learning blog, the cost effectiveness of open systems, and genuine engagement in a "reciprical economy."
He eloquently concluded that institutions need to embrace information abundance not information scarcity if they are to contribute to national wealth. I agree. Too often in academia, as well as in other realms of endeavour, people jealously guard their turf, try to protect their territory, and horde - rather than share - teaching strategies and resources. I've never understood this strain of ownership. Not only have the boundaries between disciplines been dissolving for decades now, but the advancement of knowledge comes from discussion, interaction, engagement!
If we are to move toward an information commons, a creative commons, a learning commons, etc., then we need to remind ourselves that open sourceware is the best way forward. Many people are creating culture by doing amazing things for the highest ethical values and for no material gain.
Remix, reuse, rethink!
Sandroid
About Me
- Sandroid
- I teach art history and women's studies at Capilano University, where I have been an instructor since 2001. During the past four years, I have also been the Coordinator of Studio Art. Prior to Capilano U, I taught courses for Continuing Education at UBC, and courses at UCFV (now UFV) and the University of Michigan.
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