Abstract
This article discusses the impact of patents for computer algorithms in course management systems. Referring to historical documents and court cases, the positive and negative aspects of software patents are presented. The key argument is the accessibility to algorithms comprising a course management software program such as Blackboard. The algorithms claimed in the Blackboard patent are critical to the development of distance learning. The impact of patenting these algorithms in the field of online education is evaluated using three ethical frameworks. As education moves online, it is important that distance learning be allowed to develop freely unencumbered by software patents.