Reflect: Consider for a moment the role of synchronous learning in the virtual classroom and the exploration of various synchronous applications. Using the lesson as a point of reference, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the open source versus commercial software in relation to synchronous learning in your blog
Answer: When would an open source application take precedence over a commercial product? What are the issues when choosing between Open Source vs. Commercial Software?
The strength of open source in synchronous learning is that everyone has access and it does not cost money. The weakness is that there is no help for troubleshooting for problems. The strength of commercial software is that there are constant updates and if something goes wrong there is help. The weakness is the cost, not every student may have access to it if you have to pay extra for the service.
An open source application take precedence over a commercial product in the following instances: a digital learning community could require membership to use an open source; many groups might use open sources when there are no funds for commercial software.
The issues when choosing between Open Source vs. Commercial Software often deal with the features offered. Many sites are free up to a point and tools beyond that you must pay for. Also, an open source has minimum customer service, so if you are looking to get help, this choice is not for you.
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