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Mobile devices combined with sensor technologies provide new possibilities for embedding inquiry-based science learning activities in authentic settings. These technologies rely on various standards for data exchange what makes the development of interoperable mobile and sensor-based applications a challenging task. In this paper, we present our technical efforts related to how to leverage data interoperability using open standards. To validate the potential benefits of this approach, we developed a prototype implementation and conducted a trial with high school students in the field of environmental science. The initial results indicate the potential benefits of using open standards for data exchange in order to support the integration of various technological resources and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a qualitative and quantitative study on the role of policies in Denmark and Germany in shaping the adoption of open standards and software in government. A comprehensive functionality test, surveys and interviews with suppliers and users in local authorities of both countries have been conducted, together with policy document analyses. While in Denmark open document standards have been bindingly introduced by legislation, Germany adopts a blended top-down and bottom-up approach, only providing recommendations. Although, as a result, it seems that Denmark ranks much higher in the adoption of open document standards, the overall picture is blurrier, as for instance only a small minority of public employees use open source software. The authors also suggest that the need for open standards might actually be overstated, as the rapid adoption of e.g. the PDF document format has made it in practice almost irrelevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental security is a global issue that will increasingly affect our ability to survive as a species. Collectively we must better appreciate the complex relationships that make life on Earth possible. Providing geographic information in its native context can accelerate our ability to process that information. To maximize this ability to process information, three basic elements are required: data delivery (server technology), data access (client technology), and data processing (information intelligence). NASA World Wind provides open source client and server technologies based on open standards. The possibilities for data processing and data sharing are enhanced by this inclusive infrastructure for geographic information. It is interesting that this open source and open standards approach, unfettered by proprietary constraints, simultaneously provides for entirely proprietary use of this same technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]