Abstract

It is commonplace within most University computing
schools to find different computer platforms
coexisting peacefully with each other. UNIX as well
as Linux workstations, PC’s and Apple Macs all
have their place within an educational curriculum.
Students generally find themselves using at least
two major platforms at different times during a
typical undergraduate programme.
In distance learning, however, such practice would
be considered extravagant with most students only
having access to one platform, more often than not
a PC running a version of the Windows Operating
System. Lack of access to required hardware can
lead to compatibility issues between courses run
on-campus and their equivalent courses run offcampus.
There are also issues relating to illegal use
of software. While every effort is made to ensure the
legality of software used on-campus, even a simple
request that students submit their work in Word
format can be interpreted as condoning software
piracy in countries where legal software is
expensive and where ‘bootleg’ copies are easily
available.
This paper describes a project to help address
these issues. We look in detail at a project
concerned with the building of UoSLinux for use
within certain programmes at the University, both
on-Campus as well as off-Campus. This so-called
LiveCD is based on the Knoppix/Debbian
distribution.
Keywords:
Linux, LiveCD, distance learning, software piracy