Linux Tutorial

Bret E. Shaw ’03

Computer Science

Union College

Overview

• Define project

• Explain the need

• Show current tutorials

• Reveal tutorial ideas

• Discuss process

• Discuss testing

• Discuss future

What is Linux?

• Operating system– e.g.: Microsoft Windows

• Derived from Unix

• Tutorial focus: Command line– Unlike windows, not always a graphical

interface– Type in commands

The Project: Part 1

• Research– What makes for a good online tutorial?– What is the best method of self-teaching?– What helps for better retention of information?

• Research methods– Interview Psychology professors– Study other tutorials– Research the art of teaching

The Project: Part 2

• Create a Linux tutorial– Interactive web resource– Target beginners– Information:

• Background of the Linux System

• Present the file system of Linux

• Majority: Discuss commands of Linux

Why a Linux Tutorial?

• Linux (and other Unix variants) currently run on 80% of the world’s Internet servers– Free– Open source (Code is included w/ program)– Reliable– Very compatible for multi-user, multi-function

• Students should know how to use it fully– Used in businesses as well as schools

http://ispltd.com/howto/whylinux.html

Current Tutorials

• Shortcomings– Text-based– Not interactive– Confusing– Frustrating– Cost money

Poor Design: Online Tutorial

http://grouchy.cs.indiana.edu/usr/local/www/linux/gs/chapter2.6.html

Poor Design: L nix

http://www.alberts.com/authorpages/00001403/prod_76.htm

$10.99 Please

Better: Linux Tutorial

http://www.linuxsurvival.com/

The Process• Attack project on two fronts

– How to Self-Teach• Collaboration with Psychology professors

• Study tutorials

– How to’s

– Existing tutorials

– Linux as an operating system• Research topics

• Organize lesson plan

• Write information presentably

How to Self-Teach

• Learning Aides– Iterative learning– Divide tutorial into 15 minute sections– Emphasize BCD in an ABCDE learning

process– Creative Mnemonics, Pertinent Graphics

Dr. Daniel Burns and Dr. Seth Greenberg of the Union College Psychology Department

My Tutorial Design

• Much like Linux Survival– “Summary Sandwich”– Present Information– Quiz the user– Interact with the user

Testing

• Perform tests on human subjects (2 rounds)• First round:

– Test which methods of information presentation work best

– “Bored Key” and “Overwhelmed Key”

– Email to users after 1 week to determine retention

• Second round:– Final tests to check for last minute adjustments

Questions?