I am working toward teaching a free introductory class to teens on
GNU/Linux and the philosophy of free software at the Newton Free
Library in MA this coming September.
For the class, the participants will need access to GNU/Linux. After
reviewing some options, including sdf.org, virtual machines,
Chromebooks, etc., I am considering just asking participants to
purchase a dedicated laptop and installing the OS. I may be able to
direct students to install fests in the area before the class starts.
I am not sure that this is the best idea, but it offers significant
advantages including a potentially working box as part of the results
of the course.
As a test, I purchased a laptop (Toshiba Satellite C75-B7180) on sale
for $350 at our local Microcenter in Cambridge and was able to load
GNU/Linux for my son. I am thinking of working some programming
assignments in Squeak (Smalltalk), but maybe C is a better choice for
an OS class?
Has anyone tried running a GNU/Linux intro class for teens? Can
anyone share their experiences, thoughts or suggestions? Feedback
based on actual experience would be most helpful, I think, but I would
appreciate any insights.
Thanks for your thoughts,
Marc