Open Source Systems

• Evaluate the usefulness of open source systems to solve real world problems, by drawing upon known case studies
• Critically analyse the open source software development process, its opportunities and problems in developing IT systems, with a particular focus on the individuals and organisations involved; compare and contrast open and closed source software development, by referring to established opportunities and difficulties in developing IT systems
• Assess open source systems from the legal, ethical and ideological perspectives.  

One of the most important concepts to emerge in the last decade or so is the idea of open source software development, sometimes known as free and open source software (FOSS). Examples include Linux, Apache, MySQL and PhP (LAMP). These technologies are having a significant impact on the world of electronic publishing.

The module concentrates on the collaborative aspects of open source development, giving an overview of the development process, the stakeholders involved, the environment in which the process takes place (both online and offline), communication mechanisms, the reasons for using this kind of development, and legal developments in the field. Lectures and seminars are augmented by assessed groupwork.

Students' Feedback

• This module is fascinating, contemporary and good for a wide range of professionals.
• I loved this module, it was my favourite this semester and helped me select my dissertation topic.
• The staff were very helpful, a knowedgable fun ride!
• It was highly interactive, involved active participation from all students, which turned out to be very useful in gaining knowledge and a better understanding of the area.
• We were consistently supported through our work and it was also enjoyable to be part of the teaching of the course through our groupwork and disscussions.
• Relevant, stimulating and interesting. The course leader was passionate about the subject.

EP Alumni who have taken this module include:

• Mark Greaves - Journalist and Writer, London.
• Manuel Vilas Lopez - Journalist, Spain.
• Jean-Christophe Pascal - Webmaster at Courrier International, France.
• Carolina Ribeiro Pietoso - Journalist, London and Brazil.