[Gllug] Re: Gllug digest #2082 - Software for Schools

[Frank Kelly]

On Tuesday 20 August 2002 22:42, Chris Bell wrote:
> I did some work in a primary school earlier this year, and when I
> mentioned Linux I was told that the school was required to provide the
> software specified by the government. Does anyone have any further
> information?

I attended my goddaughter's parents-day recently, as I tutor her in several 
subjects.  One of her complaints is that school machines and software are 
substandard (her own machine at home is very up to date and fast) - and this 
restricts her ability to work in school.  Her teacher countered this by 
saying that the school hoped to have some money to upgrade the system soon 
but it appears they are still using Win95!  

I asked the teacher if she was aware of the open source movement and Linux and 
she said she was, but that the school was required to teach Microsoft by the 
government.  I suggested to her to her that a switch to Linux would make 
upgrading much easier and a lot cheaper to which she just smiled and 
shrugged.  My impression was she didn't really give a damn.

Interestingly, in a recent assignment, one of the questions was 'Give reasons 
why you chose to use this program (MS of course) to carry out the project.'  
I suggested my goddaughter answer: 'Because the government gives me no 
choice'.  I also suggested that she mention open source alternatives in 
appropriate exam questions.

I have considered taking on the task of writing to head-teachers and promoting 
Linux myself.  Think Suse might help fund this?

Cheers

Frank Kelly

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