I have just had a few interesting email exchanges with some folks associated with AVOIR (African Virtual Open Initiatives and Resources). The group has a dual purpose of developing an Open Source course management system (called KEWL.Nextgen) and cultivating African programming talent in the process. Organizations that will use their system include NetTel@Africa, an organization whose goal is to close the digital divide in Africa by providing access to modern communications equipment and networks. (NetTel@Africa appears to get most of their sponsorship from USAID.)
At any rate, the AVOIR developers apparently share my dim view of threaded discussion board interfaces and are trying to think through better alternatives. I am delighted to report that, at their invitation, I will be providing some input on the matter (for whatever that’s worth).
I highly recommend checking this project out, especially if you have programming skills that you can volunteer. It looks like they’re doing some very important work.
