Open Source Textbooks

Today we have seen a beta launch of several Flexbooks, or the cK12 Foundation’s version of open source textbooks. In fact until I read about this I really hadn't given the concept of open source texts books much thought. I think in some institutions the notion of DIGITAL textbooks have only just taken hold, let alone the concept of a textbook that is constantly changing and being altered by ANYONE. So what happens when textbooks become editable? Does their authority diminish and are they filled with uneducated guesswork and unfounded and untrue junk?? What if someone takes something out or changes it something that is clearly wrong? A familiar debate for many I am sure...

So what are some possible free resources for creating and accessing online editable textbooks/books? - Try wikibooks - think of it as your free library of editable textbooks. Wikibooks also includes books in languages other than English, books for Children in for of Wikijunior and also wikibooks containing Simplified English.

Ok so if the thought of an "editable" textbook is just plain scary and send you running out of the room, why not have a look at smARThistory? I think Smart History makes online textbooks and user centred and contributed media look darn attractive! The site's developers, Beth Harris and Steven Zucker have done a marvelous job in creating a site that is dynamic, looks attractive and pools a myriad of online services (Flickr, Vimeo, Dipity and YouTube to name a few) together into a mush of collective knowledge goodness. Still dislike and not in the mood to try an editable textbook?

What is the way of the future - Well I don't know that and I wouldn't even try to guess, but I thought I would share a few vids around the theme of coping with changing technology which make me giggle...

Medieval helpdesk


This textbook is broken! - Check out Chris Betcha's blog post and the video that goes with it.