Edtechguru

How to evaluate FOSS for the classroom

Outline

Identify outcomes Identify needs Identify options Identify constraints Narrow your focus Test you choice of solutions Develop an implementation schedule Assess and make adjustments as needed

Identify outcomes

Begin with the end in mind (Stephen Covey)

What do you need to achieve?

Who needs to be considered?

Example

I need a mini lab with 3-5 PC's that allows student to do word processing and Internet search and retrieval

Identify needs

Be careful to identify needs and avoid vendor specific solutions.

BAD: I need MS Word

GOOD: I need a word processing program

By avoiding vendor specific tools allows one to consider a variety of software solutions.

Identify options

This requires looking at a variety of solutions. Start by taking an inventory of software that you currently own. Next check for FOSS options from the following sources:

Sourceforge.net Schoolforge.net Check Wikipedia for articles that identify the

software that you might need. FSF.org – The Free Software Foundation

Identify constraints

Take a look at the following limitations: The vintage and condition of your computer The OS that your system currently uses Do you have the option of installing a different

OS? Who is responsible for MRO expenses? Does you system have Internet connectivity?

Narrow your focus

After identifying your constraints, choose the 2-3 best software solutions that meet your needs. Be sure to review the following before making your selection(s):

The needs of the end user Transition costs – time and money Ease of implementation Ease of maintenance Upgrade path – hardware and software

Test your choice of solution(s)

At this phase you will need to test your solutions for a predefined period. I recommend at least 1-2 weeks. This will provide an opportunity for you to see a variety of challenges that you may have failed to anticipate.

With proprietary software this may require time and money if the software is not currently owned. With FOSS, testing only requires a commitment of time due to no licensing costs.

Develop an implementation schedule

After the testing phase and a final solution has been identified, an implementation schedule needs to be created. The following are critical elements to a successful implementation plan:

A realistic time line Training Transition plan Assessment and problem solving

Assess and make adjustments as needed

Be sure to evaluate the effectiveness of your solution by:

Talking to your end users

Take their comments into consideration when making changes, improvements, or adjustments

Questions or Comments?

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