I've previously mentioned the CAS initiative by the BCS. The intention is to change the way computing is taught in schools. The existing "ICT" syllabus has largely been used to teach "digital literacy" which apparently means how to use a word-processor and how to build flashy Powerpoint presentations. At least that's how some schools are delivering the syllabus.

CAS wants to change that by teaching "computational thinking" and programming. Firstly this is an invitation to anyone interested in the teaching of computing to sign up to the project if they have something to contribute. There are two mailing lists one for discussions and one for those making more substantive contributions. The central web site is at http://www.computingatschool.org.uk/ where volunteers will be welcome.

The project includes a number of teachers and other contributors who are trying to avoid being locked into Microsoft Office running on Windows. There are others who would like to try out Linux but have to persuade their network managers that it's safe to do so. Some hand-holding from the Linux community could help.

I have failed to take the necessary step backwards and appear to have volunteered to do some work for the project. I am going to be collating resources available to teachers, students and most importantly the parents of students. The teaching covers every level of student from average seven year olds up to uber-geek hackers of 18 ready to start their own software house from a back bedroom. The aim of the project is to persuade at least some of the students that computing is a sensible career choice and one that they might enjoy. Another objective (my particular hobby-horse) is to teach useful skills to the ones that don't take it up as a career but later have to work with analysts and programmers.

So I'm shaking the begging bowl. I'm not looking for cash, what I need is help from the Linux community. That could be from experienced Linux sysadmins helping deal with the occasional obstructive Linux-phobic network admin. It could be from people who have taught programming and know of accessible resources. I'm particularly interested in hearing from parents whose children have learned to program; any platform, any language.

Feel free to forward this message to anyone else who may be sucker enough to help out. Please email me with any resources that we may be able to use, or if you want more information.

-- Bernard Peek bap <at> shrdlu.com

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