[math4] XO and Sugar

[Caroline Meeks]

>
>
> Message: 7
> Date: Thu, 2 Apr 2009 23:24:16 -0400
> From: Eric Grace <ericmgrace at gmail.com>
> Subject: [math4] 7. XOs or Sugar? (Caroline Meeks)
> To: fourthgrademath at lists.sugarlabs.org
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Hi Eric,

I definitely agree with you.  The goal is to create a flexible system so
that schools can use Sugar regardless of existing local conditions. In the
US existing local conditions can include available existing hardware, cost
of hardware (including sometimes complex color of money and existing
contracts issues), people's pre-existing biases, IT department rules, etc.
etc.

Our job is to create options and help people find the ones that will get
Sugar computing into kids hands quickly.  Our job is not to decide "The Best
Way" and then spend our time arguing with local implementers that we know
more about what is best for them then they do.

As you talk to schools, stay in touch if I can help.

Thanks!
Caroline

>
> Hello Caroline,
>
> Nice to meet you too..
>
>
> Yes, Sugar on a Stick definitely has its advantages and should be deployed
> for student access and testing grounds for new developments.  Individual
> student Sugar Sticks is a great option.  I wouldn't argue one over the
> other.  Any use of either for access, feedback, and development is good.
>
> I think some of the barriers to the Sugar on a Stick approach is the
> personnel in charge of facilitation.  The concept of using an XO is a much
> easier sell to teachers and administrators because it is radically
> different
> than the hardware schools already have.  I've dealt with a lot of
> resistance
> when dealing with school districts hardware and networks, so showing up
> with
> your own can be a much quicker solution...
>
> The mobility of the XO makes the potential for new experiential classroom
> curriculum integrated into applications/games an exciting possibility.  My
> comments were not geared at getting school districts to completely change
> their hardware & software, curriculum, and teaching methods, but rather a
> quick method for us to test new development ideas locally and get feedback
> from the education community.
>
>
> Regards,
>
> Eric
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-- 
Caroline Meeks
Solution Grove
Caroline at SolutionGrove.com

617-500-3488 - Office
505-213-3268 - Fax
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