[OLPC-SF] Microsoft Is Joining Low-Cost Laptop Project - New York Times

[jim]

(somebody stop me) 

> Yes, the medium in this case can
> also be a part of the message for computing-related topics, but what
> about topics that aren't even remotely related to computers...such as
> purification of water? 

   kids are much more aware of other kids than 
adults. imagine a school with some kids and 
bear in mind those kids will be aware of the 
kids in the other schools...; my point: large 
numbers of kids aware of each other. 

   a few of those kids, given the opportunity, 
will take to programming and system 
administration. their abilities will be prized. 
they'll interact with kids who don't have such 
an interest but do have interests in, oh, say, 
purification of water, or games, or health, or 
business.... kids with various interests will 
encourage each other, and momentum will build, 
kids' competencies are likely to outstrip those 
of their teachers. 

   the above scenario is more likely with an 
all-open source platform than with one that is 
restricted. 
   even such operating system features as the 
essential user interface, the kernel, device 
drivers (modules), libraries..., if open will 
permit faster and deeper involvement. the areas 
of math and reading/writing will likely benefit 
with greater OS openness.