[Fsf Education] GNU/Linux in Schools [Was: Re: [Fsf-india] Peruvian Bill and its response]

[Arun M]

> We have to be *extremely* careful not to make the same mistakes that
> the Mexicans made in their failed attempt to introduce GNU/Linux in
> schools without laying the appropriate foundation or ensuring
> continuous support.

Yes, I agree with you. We should not aim at introducing Free Software 
in all schools. But let us try a few pilot cases. And make teachers
aware of Free Software.

 I've some serious doubts regarding to what extent this IT@Schools
 project in Kerala will be successful. Mail from Mr Raj Singh clearly
 articulates the issues. 
 
 Also I feel following statement is very relevant here.

 <snip>
 Conventional wisdom holds that children can only benefit from exposure to
 technology, and research shows that when the machines supplement an
 already strong curriculum, they can be an effective educational tool.
 </snip>

 (We lack that strong curriculum.)

> If the Director of Public Instructions, Kerala, is "interested" in
> free software, then we must first request him to consider introducing
> the simple philosophy of free software in the school curriculum. Some

  Some efforts were put into this and became fruitful. Proposed Computer 
  text book got boxes on Free Software, RMS, Linus etc.
  (Credit goes to Dr Krishnan). We may be able to get more details in
  the book coming up next. 

  What we aim is to show atleast a few teachers that Free Software is 
  better. Try to get them trained in Free Software. We shouldnt aim
  at getting it installed in all schools.