[svlug] Let them eat cake (Linux for the poor)

[Rick Kwan]

My nutshell summary is:  The problem of computing for the have-nots
is a mighty thorny problem.

Hans Cathcart <hans at itavera.com> wrote:

> Subject: [svlug] Let them eat cake (Linux for the poor)

(...snipped intro...)

> So I'm wondering is there any value finding used computers for low income
> people, assembling them and installing Linux.  Is there any value in trying
> to teach people that don't have computer experience at all, something as
> relatively complex as system administration.  If it worked could people who
> learn Linux, but have few years of computer experience get well paying jobs
> in the valley? I always hear people focussing on giving computers to
> children, which is a good thing, but adults need them also. In fact, if
> adults manage to raise their incomes through computer technology skills,
> this is a very positive sign for their children, perhaps even better than
> focussing so much attention on kids.

I know a place in Fremont which refurbishes and sells 486 machines.
When I talked to them several months ago, they had heard of Linux,
but not many there had experience with it.

The problem here is that non-techies can get computer-related jobs
only in apps in which they have specific training.  When employers
want Excel or Word on Windows, training on Linux is only interesting
if the apps work virtually identically to their Windows counterparts.

> Is the fact that Linux is free, and runs on really cheap hardware
> potentially an opportunity to help minimum wage workers raise their
> incomes?  I would never think of thinking about this in the Windows world,
> because in order to improve skills there, you need money for software. With
> Linux you only need time and patience.

When you're struggling to improve your lot in life, you want
the shortest path possible is highest probability of success.
That argues for a class or self-study course which leads to a
proven level of proficiency.

> What things would be required?
>
> 1.) CPU that can run X and Netscape
> 2.) Monitor
> 3.) Printer
> 4.) Phone and Internet connection
> 5.) Instruction and advice at Installfests and online.
>
> I'd be interested in hearing what you all think.

If we can show that using apps on Linux leads to better jobs, then
those who need the training will probably come.  But the problem is
making that case.  Or show that the Linux app skills are directly
transferable to Windows.  (ugh)

Someone might want to approach a business coalition like Joint
Venture/Silicon Valley and make the case with them that there is a
social good being performed at minimal cost.  If they buy the idea
and someone designs the course (can be on the web), we can probably
snowball a bunch of momentum behind this.

--Rick Kwan, Lightsaber Computing
  rick.kwan at lightsaber.com


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