Re: Computer Bank and Co-Op

[Robert Hoffmann <escape@alt-escape.com>]

At 08:38 AM 8/2/99 -0700, sec@moscow.com wrote:
>> One idea that I kicked around some time ago was buying an old semi trailer
>> and putting a computer lab in that, and groups could rent it out for
>> classes or whatever. What a suprise when I found other companies doing
>> exactly that.

>an interesting idea...but doesn't the public Library offer access?

They offer access, but not PCs for writing school papers or doing
spreadsheets.

While some may think that old computers would be useless for
"disadvantaged" families and students, I disagree.  If I had a choice of
writing a school paper longhand, using a typewriter, or using a 386
computer with an outdated DOS word processor, I would certainly choose the
386.  And while knowledge of XyWrite or another defunct word processor is
not a current job skill, people can still learn something about the
behavior of computers by mastering such programs.  A student might be able
to type a paper at home, save it in plain text format, and then take it to
school, convert it to a modern word processing format, and print it.  This
gives an understanding of file formats, file conversion, and the use of
removable media (floppy disks).

This is the same with sending old computers to developing nations.  I've
heard of programs that do just that.  Some exposure to computers (even old
computers) is better than no exposure at all.  Students and technicians
abroad can learn about basic computer components, operating system
installation, troubleshooting, the use of common application types (word
processing, spread sheets, databases, etc.) and programming.  Remember,
while older computers can't operate modern graphical programs and
interfaces, they were designed to run their contemporary DOS-level
applications, and do so very well.  

You can compare this to countries that run large parts of their economies
through the use of bicycles.  While a bike is not an Audi or a dump truck,
people still use them for personal transportation, product transportation
("freight") and power generation.  It may not be our first-world solution,
but we just don't understand other countries when we say "You can't haul
ten tons of gravel on a bike, therefore bikes would be useless to third
world countries."

So that's the view on this end....


Bob Hoffmann                         229 East C St., Suite B
Alt-Escape Adventures                Moscow, ID  83843  USA
http://www.alt-escape.com            Phone: (208) 883-0642
                                     Fax: 1-800-683-3799