CAS @ EAC - Where Do I Start? - Open-Source Linux Project

EAC has upgraded to newer computers around campus and as a result will be getting rid of 18 old desktop computers. The CAS program has been granted access to these old computers because it's a perfect opportunity for students to learn about Open-Source Operating systems and how they can revitalize old computers into fully functional high performing computers again.

To start, watch the video below talking about the short history of the Linux Operating system and how it changed the computer-scape around the world.

The Story of Linux Commemorating 20 Years on Vimeo.mp4

So it all starts with the Operating System. Almost all Linux Operating Systems are free of charge and can be downloaded from the internet. Currently at EAC (Room 29), we have 5 desktop computers that are being reformatted with the most popular Linux OSs: Ubuntu and Linux Mint. The last 13 are awaiting an eager group of CAS students to start reformatting them.

How does this count as CAS? If you've never before worked with Operating Systems, then figuring out how to install an OS onto a computer can be tricky. Take the challenge and earn Creativity credit toward CAS as you troubleshoot your way to success.

But that's just the beginning. There are so many amazing open source applications that can be installed on these computers such as Lightworks Movie Editor, Gimp Photo Editing Software and Audacity, the audio studio packed full of amazing features. CAS students can either learn, or teach others how to use these amazing open source applications.

If you want to take it further, then you can help identify, locate and arrange for the computers to be set up at a local charity. This would certainly count toward Service for CAS.

To learn more about Open-Source technology, listen to this TED talk given by Richard Stallman, the man who is credited with creating the GPL (General Public License) that helped the Open Source Movement flourish.

Richard Stallman's TEDx video Introduction to Free Software.webm

After some trouble shooting, we are up and running after the arrival of our Wi-Fi Internet Connectors! Our seniors are busy installing Ubuntu, Kubuntu, and Linux Mint onto our first computers. They are installing all the best open source software and learning how each OS differs from one another.