| Abstract |
Most of the Indian schools use MS Windows operating system, MS Office, Dream Weaver, MS Fox Pro application software, and Logo, and C++ programming languages. All these proprietary softwares are very expensive. Licence for multiple usages in schools may cost up to Rs. 4 lakh and more, with each upgradation having additional cost.
In comparison to these proprietary softwares, open source softwares which can be downloaded from the Internet at no cost can be modified and used in as many machines as needed. Linux, an open source operating system, is emerging as an alternative to MS Windows. One of the popular site that acts as a clearinghouse for Linux-based applications is www.schoolforge.net. It helps educators find open source software for network security and monitoring; grade and timetable tracking; and other needs of educational institutions. In India, DEMO@SCHOOL is a group active in Tamil Nadu which is trying to promote open source software in Tamil Nadu schools in English and vernacular languages.
Another advantage with the Linux based system is that it can run on older computers like 386 and schools need not upgrade machines frequently to accommodate newer versions of Windows based softwares. In the light of these facts the present study proposes to:
- Survey and download open source softwares from the Internet that might appear relevant for schools
- Identify their nature and range of applications in the context of the requirement of a typical school
- Figure out the hardware requirement and overall feasibility of usage of these softwares in schools.
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