Skip to content

Microsoft Gadgets vs OpenCourseWare Consortium

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Microsoft Gadgets icon
Microsoft Gadgets
OpenCourseWare Consortium icon
OpenCourseWare Consortium

Microsoft Gadgets vs OpenCourseWare Consortium: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Microsoft Gadgets: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

OpenCourseWare Consortium: The OpenCourseWare Consortium is a collaboration of higher education institutions and associated organizations committed to advancing open courseware and its impact on global education. Its goal is to extend the reach and impact of open courseware by encouraging the adoption and adaptation of open educational materials around the world.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Microsoft Gadgets OpenCourseWare Consortium
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Education & Reference

Product Overview

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Description: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Type: software

OpenCourseWare Consortium
OpenCourseWare Consortium

Description: The OpenCourseWare Consortium is a collaboration of higher education institutions and associated organizations committed to advancing open courseware and its impact on global education. Its goal is to extend the reach and impact of open courseware by encouraging the adoption and adaptation of open educational materials around the world.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets Features
  • Mini-applications that run on Windows desktop
  • Displayed information like news, weather, clocks, calendars
  • Customizable widgets for personal use
  • RSS/Atom feed support
  • Sidebar for organizing gadgets
  • Scripting support
OpenCourseWare Consortium
OpenCourseWare Consortium Features
  • Provides free access to course materials and resources from member institutions
  • Course materials include syllabi, lecture notes, assignments, exams, etc
  • Allows broad dissemination of knowledge from leading universities worldwide
  • Promotes collaboration between faculty, students and institutions
  • Supports open education and open educational resources (OER) movement

Pros & Cons Analysis

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Pros

  • Convenient at-a-glance information
  • Highly customizable and personalizable
  • Added functionality to the desktop
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Performance impact on some systems
  • Limited selection of gadgets
  • Discontinued in Windows 8
OpenCourseWare Consortium
OpenCourseWare Consortium

Pros

  • Increases access to high-quality educational materials
  • Reduces cost of education for students
  • Allows self-directed and lifelong learning opportunities
  • Fosters pedagogical innovation through OER collaboration
  • Promotes global exchange of ideas and cultures

Cons

  • Relies on volunteer contributions so offerings can be inconsistent
  • Quality of materials can vary greatly between courses
  • Lack of credentialing or accreditation for most courses
  • Language barriers for non-English materials
  • Sustainability challenges due to reliance on grants and donations

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
OpenCourseWare Consortium
OpenCourseWare Consortium
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

Microsoft Gadgets Alternatives
OpenCourseWare Consortium Alternatives
Browse More Software