OpenEducation4Schools/FAQs

Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is free and open software?

See Wikipedia article

Why is it different from propietary software?
 * doesn't cost money to buy it
 * less of a footprint (i.e, you don't need expensive pc's to run it, less RAM, processor power)
 * global community of users / support
 * values-based
 * independent of fiscally biased assistance or opinion

What is the cost-savings?
 * no upfront purchase price
 * reduced maintenance cost
 * ease of use allows for users to become involved with the solutions therefore adding extra value from participation

How is it measured?
 * Take cost-savings per school and multiply it times # of schools in a district over annual basis

-License fee paid for proprietary software that is then sent to corporation headquarters -Power consumption from using terminal servers requiring less electricity for each terminal

-Landfill, recycling and ewaste is reduced by extending the life of fully supported computers

-Donated hardware to schools from institutions or corporations that can then be refurbished with Free software

Unmeasurable from a monetary value
 * freedom for users
 * independence for schools to make informed decisions
 * openness allows for greater community involvement in educational outcomes and direction