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The World Is Open: How Web Technology Is Revolutionizing Education By: Curtis J. Bonk “Anyone can now learn anything from anyone at anytime” (Bonk, 2009, p. 7) is the foundation of //The World Is Open//. Bonk explains that students can now learn when they want, how they want, and from whom they want through the use of the Web. “WE-ALL-LEARN” is a memory aid for the 10 key “openers” presented by Bonk. These ten key “openers” open education to people around the world. Real world applications of each of these openers and how they are transforming our world using Web 2.0 technology is addressed.

The development and use of e-books is opening doors to education. Many projects such as The Open Library, the Global Text Project, and the California Open Source Textbook Project are working to create a world of downloadable and searchable books and textbooks for use by anyone. “The march toward free and open source books is coming at a brisk pace. Those who benefit from an education where none occurred previously will be most thankful” (Bonk, 2009, p. 83). Because of the new resources online, e-learning and blended learning are providing opportunities to students to be in control of their own learning. Projects like the NotSchool in the United Kingdom give educationally opportunities to students who are unable to function in the normal school setting. “Blended and fully online course and program options give students a choice” (Bonk, 2009, p. 127). A large number of states are starting initiatives to provide e-learning for all students before graduation from High School.

With the availability of open source and free software, new educational opportunities are booming. Bonk clarifies that the word “free” doesn’t necessarily mean free of charge, but that it may be used freely, copied, edited, and improved by anyone. These technologies “make more content available to individuals as well as organizations and entire countries that would not otherwise be able to access them” (Bonk, 2009, p. 155). Another such trend is the opencourseware movement. The premise of OCW, started by MIT, is to place accessible content on the web. MIT is doing just that by making their courses available to anyone at anytime. “You can explore as much or as little as you want at your own leisure and for free” (Bonk, 2009, p. 164). New learning object repositories and portals offer virtual connectivity unlike ever before. “For all of us to learn, we need these types of free online educational content and resources for learners across the world-resources for any age group, any educational level, any race or ethnic group, and any language” (Bonk, 2009, p. 200). These new learning portals are opening up education by offering virtual tours of museums, observations of science experiments, and the ability to virtually see a historical document.

Learner participation and collaboration are essential in the quest to engage our learners. Tools such as YouTube, Current TV and Big Think offer students the ability to be interactive with their learning. Learners not only learn from participating, but also form collaborating with other students. “Collaborative tools bring their ideas, talents, resources, networks, and products together for sharing and innovations” (Bonk, 2009, p. 250). Mobile phones, e-mail, internet access, and Web conferencing enhance collaboration and develop problem-solving strategies. Connecting with learners around the world, students gain a new perspective and respect for other cultures. Games, simulations, and virtual worlds all add to learner participation and engagement. These advances are being used not only in education, but also in the military and medical fields.

Students are actively engaged and collaborating with their peers. Mobility is essential for today’s learners. “Educational activities must be possible wherever any single human being steps foot” (Bonk, 2009. p, 293). Through Wi-Fi connections, mobile phones, and other electronic connectivity devices, mobile learning has fast become a reality. This mobility combined with networks of personalized learning allows students to be connected. With the technology openers of education discussed by Bonk, students can indeed learn whenever, whatever, and wherever they want.