A Review of Application of Web 2.0 and Open Source Softwares in E-learning: A Baseline Survey in a Private University, Kenya
E-learning has become popular in many higher level institutions due to advancements in technology such as web 2.0 and Free Open Source Softwares. Many universities have deployed E-learning systems where E-learning based and non E-learning based educational environments coexist. Research in this area has mainly focussed on the technologies such as Web 2.0 and Free Open Source Softwares. The actual adoption, deployment and inclusions of such technologies in Institutions of Higher Learning remain undetermined. This study sought to determine the application of Web 2.0 and Open Source Softwares in E-learning with specific reference to actual adoption, deployment and inclusion. Descriptive Survey Design was used in a local Private University in Kenya to collect data about students on actual adoption, deployment and inclusion of Web 2.0 and Free Open Source Softwares in E-learning. The study found out that Open Source Softwares were the least deployed and adopted technologies in E-learning. ILIAS, EFRONT and Claroline softwares had 100% No response implying that respondents were unaware of existence of these softwares in E-learning.
Keywords: E-learning, Web 2.0, Open Source Softwares
Download Full-Text
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Peter Namisiko
Mr. Peter Namisiko is the Coordinator, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kitale Campus. His research interests include: Data Communications, ICT Policy issues, Telecommunication management and Database Systems.
Robert Mindila
Mr. Robert Mindila is the Director, Mount Kenya University. Eldoret Campus. His research interests include Accounting, Financial Analysis in SMEs. He has published numerous books on Accounting and Finance.
Emily Chepkoech
Mrs. Emily Chepkoech is the Quality Assurance Officer, Mount Kenya University, Kitale Campus. Her research interests include Policy matters on Education and Procurement.
Raymond Nyeris
Mr. Raymond Nyeris is the Associate Director, Examinations at Mount Kenya University, Kitale Campus. His research interests include Policy matters on Educational administration and planning.
Peter Namisiko
Mr. Peter Namisiko is the Coordinator, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kitale Campus. His research interests include: Data Communications, ICT Policy issues, Telecommunication management and Database Systems.
Robert Mindila
Mr. Robert Mindila is the Director, Mount Kenya University. Eldoret Campus. His research interests include Accounting, Financial Analysis in SMEs. He has published numerous books on Accounting and Finance.
Emily Chepkoech
Mrs. Emily Chepkoech is the Quality Assurance Officer, Mount Kenya University, Kitale Campus. Her research interests include Policy matters on Education and Procurement.
Raymond Nyeris
Mr. Raymond Nyeris is the Associate Director, Examinations at Mount Kenya University, Kitale Campus. His research interests include Policy matters on Educational administration and planning.
