Overview
In one way, there is a strong connection between the academic method and the open source method. Open access to information, collaboration across institutions, and quality for the sake of quality.
In another way, they are grounded in different philosophies. Any single open source project is more focused around a point solution, where academia is focused on the student as a whole being. Methods are purer, lessons to be applied across the breadth and depth of life.
What the open source methodology offers right now is no longer a hodgepodge, patchwork quilt. The ability to create quality software, content, and meaning in an open community is repeatedly proven.
Academia is sending students into this new environment, where their post-graduate studies or work are going to require the same skillsets exercised in these open communities.
From parellelism in programming to team collaboration across timezones, the open source methodology is a tool that is relatively easy to integrate in to an existing or new curriculum.
Tactical
Universities want students to have good jobs and lives
Students typically move through a four-year institution, giving one compressed period of time to master not only subjects but learning itself. Here is how open source internships assist that ...
Strategic
Universities want students who reflect well on their University and teachers throughout their lives
- Building a body of academic work that lives beyond, carrying the University's name and reputation
- Consider how many hackers still use their University academic shell account, lots!
- Bridging the connection between academia and current business practices
- Providing early opportunities for meaningful leadership in areas passionate about
- Skills that continue to be applicable throughout their careers and lives