OpenEdge-labs: A Collaborative, Inclusive, and Open Source Learning Lab

A second step is opening for me in my entrepreneurial journey with the launch of the OpenEdge-labs project (the 'little brother' of Eyes4IT), a project that aims to become a training center dedicated to open source technologies (and more…).

This is a project that has taken time to mature, to take shape, and is now entering the phase of preparing for liftoff, ready to take off.

I have been training for years, have seen many things—both good and not-so-good—I’ve taken the time to study a rapidly evolving market, and to engage in conversations to build this project. But let’s get straight to the point.

1) What is OpenEdge-labs?

Beyond becoming a training center, OpenEdge-labs aims to be a 'laboratory' of collaborative and inclusive learning focused on open source technologies and AI.

2) Why this project?

This project arose from several observations:

Lack of Standardization

One of the most pressing issues in open source training is the lack of standardized curricula. Unlike traditional education systems that follow a defined structure, open source training is often fragmented, with each platform offering its unique approach. This can lead to disparities in the skills acquired by learners, making it difficult for employers to evaluate these skills.

Accessibility Issues

Accessibility is another major concern, especially for individuals in developing regions or those with limited internet access. While many open-source training resources are available online, they are often inaccessible to those lacking the necessary infrastructure. This digital divide exacerbates existing inequalities in education and job opportunities.

Skill Level Gaps

The open-source ecosystem encompasses a wide range of technologies, each requiring different skills. However, training programs often fail to address the varied needs of learners, offering content that is either too basic or too advanced. This gap can discourage learners, particularly beginners, from continuing their education.

Regional Disparities

Regional disparities in open-source training are also apparent, with some areas, particularly in the Global North, having better access to resources and opportunities. In contrast, the Global South often faces challenges related to language barriers, cultural differences, and a lack of local training providers, further widening the gap in open-source adoption.

3) How to address these challenges?

1st Focus Area: Offering structured, certifying learning paths

In an overcrowded market, amplified by the effects of social networks where everyone shares their vision, it is essential to offer learning paths with clearly defined levels, prerequisites, and objectives that are aligned with the professional world.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way: OpenEdge-labs aims to be the architect at your side on this learning journey. Whether it’s a complete path or one adapted if the individual already has some level of expertise, all possibilities can be considered.

Offering paths that include and open up to other professional dimensions.

Being tech-savvy is great, but it’s not an ivory tower, and 'it’s not all about tech, it’s not just tech.' Hence the importance of integrating soft skills and subjects related to project management, legal aspects, etc., all with an open-source perspective.

2nd Focus Area: Developing inclusive and collaborative training

Selling inclusion like selling a box of Kleenex serves no purpose. Many will be skeptical, as the topic either disturbs or bores them, but it’s not a lost cause.

This focus will be a key element in development.

Learning open source alone by doing labs in isolation is fine, but it misses the very strength of open source: collaboration.

OpenEdge-labs will innovate in collaborative learning in this area.

3rd Focus Area: Assessing rigorously upfront to better support and fill gaps

Diving into Hadoop without solid foundations in Linux and Java can be problematic. A recent experience highlighted the need to establish and evaluate prerequisites upfront to avoid setbacks.

4) What trainings and pathways will be offered?

OpenEdge-labs will cover a wide range of topics, from infrastructure to future technologies like edge computing, AI, IoT, and will also include subjects related to security, storage, networking, systems, data, and more.

5) Are you interested in the project? Do you want to participate, contribute?

I am a human with passion, but also with limits and a mindset of 'never complain, never give up, and always trust in yourself.'

I believe in collective and collaborative efforts, so don’t hesitate to contact me. After all, doing it alone will eventually have its limits."

You are passionate, you have a deeply knowledge in a domain and you like open source spirit "when you don't know, you ask but when you know, you share": let's have a talk!