Context of Engagement, Social Mobilization and Community Challenges Openredu.org

Abstract

In the contemporary technology scenario, free software communities have played a crucial role in highlighting platforms that seek to offer open source educational solutions for teaching and learning institutions. However, the success and sustainability of communities largely depend on member engagement, as well as the strategies adopted to promote collaboration and ongoing participation. Given this, the objective of this study is to describe the experience lived in the context of the Openredu.org community as an environment for conducting research, innovation and collaboration in the development of educational projects. For this, it was necessary to actively participate in the strategies used to engage volunteer members in the community. In addition, developing technology approaches, investigating activities, mapping strategies, governance characteristics and experiences that bring members closer to the project's mission, vision and values. The results highlight the members' experience of engagement, motivated by collaboration, learning and recognition of the role of leadership in organizing and facilitating the decision-making process. It is concluded that financial and human challenges need to be constantly faced to improve the project.