The fact that this has turned up also on the SuSE Linux schools list and the fact that such a list exists (and has about 150 members) shows that there is a bit more to it than this. Of course there are usability and learning-curve issues. And yes, there is a certain style of advocacy which is really the opposite of advocacy... And I can't use `vee-eye' either. But I think gnome and kde (version 2 on it's way) are both pretty usable and efficient. As to the issues involved in making Linux more usable in the specific conditions of schools, both as a server and a desktop OS, there are constructive discussions going on in various quarters, particularly Malcolm Herbert's inititatives (http://www.ose.org.uk). And the speed at which Linux is getting more usable is pretty amazing (how long ago was it that I was totally baffled trying to get my first slackware installed and X running...? - it's so much easier now.) (Of course the points about teachers' pay, workload and status are more than valid. I was one of them, though in most ways one of the more fortunate ones.) On Mon, 18 Sep 2000 davef@gbdirect.co.uk wrote:
On Mon, Sep 18, 2000 at 11:32:26AM +0100, Gary Stainburn wrote: <simon says snip>
An excellent letter, with I believe just the tone required. I did notice that you used the longer www.wylug.lug.org.uk instead of the (one less lug) www.wylug.org.uk. I believe that the shorter name gives a better image.
I heartilly agree ... except I'd go further and get rid of the three Ws too.
My 3 'peneth on the offering (speaking as someone with recent secondary teaching experience):
Basically, linux in its raw state is no use to anyone in schools except for after-school tinkering by comp sci clubs or geeky physics/maths teachers, etc ... and there are not many of the latter with much time for play.
In short, any offering must be completely and simply packaged (Mac-like) and fully supported.
Anything less will simply be a waste of time for both wylug members and any targetted schools/teachers.
Dave
P.S. Sorry for the stridency, but with the current state of UK teaching (i.e. shite pay, shite status, no time and the blame for all social ills) the usual bollocks which over-skilled Unix-gurus come out with in response to serious useability issues just won't wash
Please, if you feel compelled to remind me about the amazing efficiency and useability of "vee-eye" and the bash ... don't bother
-- Roger Whittaker SuSE Linux Ltd The Kinetic Centre Theobald Street Borehamwood Herts WD6 4PJ ---------------------- 020 8387 1482 ---------------------- roger@suse-linux.co.uk ----------------------