[ILUG] More Linux in the classroom!

[Cormac McClean]

Michael Treacy wrote:
> 
> >We could even tailor things for the Irish curriculum, e.g. Linux
> >software
> >that follows the Leaving Cert Maths, Science, <subject>, curricula. I
> 
> That's a great idea! I work in a school and there is no software out there
> that is specific to the Irish curriculum. No problem getting GCSE or O/A
> Level stuff, but nothing for the Junior/Leaving Cert.
> 
> Mike

Is this a real possibility? That is, producing Linux software tailored
to the Irish Secondary School curriculum? I would be happy to be
involved
in producing Maths/Physics/Applied Maths software instructional aids.

However, there's little point in producing fantastic Linux software for 
schools (and it can be fantastic - the Learning Logic software package
that John mentioned looks very good
http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Lab/9586/).
if schools aren't using Linux and have no awareness of the advantages
of Linux. My experience after 2 years of Secondary school teaching
(as Maths/Computers) was that many Secondary Schools are just beginning
to realise the potential of computer technologies (and some haven't
even realised), but unfortunately, for most of these schools Computers =
Microsoft, i.e. even Office suites running on Win95/98 don't get a
look in if they're not Microsoft Office. Linux wouldn't be in the
picture at all.

Maybe this isn't an accurate reflection of the future of Linux in
schools?
If it is, maybe we should get involved in raising the profile of Linux
in
schools. I would see a 2-pronged attack: providing technical assistance
and
support in setting up and maintaining the Linux OS, and providing
excellent
software tailored to the Irish curriculum. Maybe we could target a
friendly
school and try it out as a pilot scheme?

Is this a bit far-fetched? Mind you, this is not idle talk - I would be
eager to get involved, e.g. if there were one or two people in the
Midlands
/ West we could co-ordinate, pick a school as a pilot project, de-Bill
it and, 
in conjunction with the school, develop educational software running on
Linux, 
tailored to the Irish curriculum in general, and to the needs of the
school in
particular.
After a year or so we could assess and decide if it's worth proceeding.

Any thoughts?

Cormac.