On 24 Sep 2002, Jesse Kline wrote:
> >From what I have seen, it doesn't look like our school systems are
> interested in running Linux. Maybe some private schools would be, but my
> thought is that we concentrate on individuals. I think we should look
My understanding is that there are MS agreements with the school boards.
There is also a paranoia in keeping school computer systems running
on older software in order to maintain any control over the systems. Newer
software represents higher maintenance costs, learning curves for the
staff, and new and uncontrollable problems. The LTSP project could solve
some of these problems because of its elegance and the programs it can
run.
> thought is that we concentrate on individuals. I think we should look
> into hooking up with some immigration society (I can probably provide
> some contacts), and provide our computers to people who are new to
> Canada and don't have the funds to buy a new machine. I think this would
There was an initiative of the Calgary Community Network Association
(CCNA) called the "Barrier Project" which did just what you mentioned.
They were even funded by corporate and individual donations as well as the
Max Bell Foundation to hire staff and provided used computers for free.
Despite all this effort, the idea never took off. There were ongoing
problems with computer failures. So much so, that frustrated people
were actually returning their used hardware because the computer support
they were receiving couldn't solve their problems.
> Canada and don't have the funds to buy a new machine. I think this would
> greatly benefit many people, as well as the economy because it would put
> more computer savvy people into the workplace.
Perhaps they would become more computer savvy. I think the economy could
improve because used computers would help them get the ball rolling on
getting a few important things done until they have more money. Things
like: writing that first batch of resumes, letters, and emails. It could
give them an affordable means to surf the net for jobs.
The dramatic cost savings using Linux solves one major problem for
anyone. Being computer savvy seems to be what is required though to
keep on using it although I know that Linux has become more user
friendly so that most newbies can intuitively learn. Now if only the word
could spread about Linux. I think some of the problem has to do with how
the status quo tends to perceive value in anything they spend more money
on (which defeats the purpose of the cost savings... ironic.)
Peter Williams
CLUG Membership #02L02203
CLUG email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
