This essay integrates composition theory with pedagogical practice to redefine what is traditionally viewed as the 'writing classroom.' Specifically, it explores how we can redefine rhetorical invention through the cultural foundations of open source communities. In "An Open Source Composition Space," writing is collaborative, authorship is negated by ideals of shared intellectual property, and students and teachers can learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment.
“ If this article were open source
you could change this sentence. ”
What Is 'Open Source'?
'Open’ should be about community and collaboration, which may begin with some guidance from teachers, but ultimately will bloom within the relationships between writers.
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Open Invention
Nearly every open source project has an ongoing, never-ending list of problems waiting to be solved. It’s up to the individual developers to step in, access the code, and pitch in to the overall invention process.
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Desire and Skill
Many open source projects stem from a simple need to get a particular task accomplished – or to solve a particular problem. Others come simply from a desire for entertainment, enjoyment, and play.
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Nurturing Joy in Learning
That inherent creativity that stems from learning through play – through joy – is what drives both desire and need in the open invention process: to invent, inspire, brainstorm, and compose.
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Tools and Resources
Although the imagination and creativity of the people (that is, the composers, students, and instructors) are the most important part of the brainstorming process, there are several tools and technologies that may be of use to you while setting up your own Open Source Composition Space.
