Loving the Linux Lab

The following is a paper I wrote for my Advanced Composition class.

In the schools of wealthy first world countries teachers usually implement expensive computer labs for the furtherance of technological education. Low budget schools in third world countries rarely have this opportunity because of cost issues. Linux Operating Systems along with LTS (Linux Terminal Server) technology offers a low cost solution. Linus Torvalds along with other programmers around the world developed this multi-user, multi-tasking OS (operating system) as a free alternative to major commercial OS’s. LTS allows many people to simultaneously use the same computer processor. Because a Linux Lab provides low-cost, low-maintenance, and long lasting solutions, schools should implement this framework for the most efficient use of resources.

Given ongoing budget cuts, schools need to look for a low-cost setup. One of the more popular Linux distributions for schools, Edubuntu, has a commitment to remain free of charge. In fact, teachers can order free Cd’s from the “ShipIt” program with the entire Edubuntu operating system on them! Through implementing LTS in a 25 student lab class the school would only pay for one server, 25 workstations and peripherals. No software licensing fees! Realistically, the school could save at least $7,500 from choosing a Linux lab (with LTS) over a standard Windows lab*.

Maintaining such a lab requires surprisingly less involvement than that of a typical computer lab. Developers designed Linux on the rock solid UNIX foundation which has a virus free reputation. Edubuntu Linux comes with a built in firewall against network attacks and a web content filtering program called Dansguardian. Furthermore, with one main computer serving 25 clients, a professor in control could moderate all the student’s computer use simultaneously. Instead of installing 25 local applications, one could install the program once on the server and clients would all have access to the same program. Administrators will barely notice any future maintenance.

This Linux Lab solution not only provides low-cost and low-maintenance alternatives, but also brings a long lasting computer lab. Edubuntu has a commitment to provide free security updates, and a strict new and improved release every six months and the FSF (Free Software Foundation) will always provide free open source applications. Linux has a rapid development reputation, as thousands of programmers around the globe work to make it a better piece of software. Web forums offer a huge amount of technical support. With all the resources, altruistic philosophies, and growth of Linux, schools will enjoy a self sustaining foundation for their lab.

Open Source software permits students to share and learn how software works, whereas proprietary software restricts such education. With all the educational grants and discounts for hardware purchased in bulk, schools should have no problem implementing a computer lab. Teachers can obtain Linux and open source software both free and legally as to supply children with technological education. Edubuntu believes in this opportunity strongly. Schools must take advantage of Linux and Open Source and prepare students for the 21st century.

For more info:
http://www.debian.org
http://www.linux.com
http://www.edubuntu.com

Other Essay’s I have written:
The Meaning of a Moroccan Smile