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Re: [LUG] promotion event - talks

 

On Sun, 27 Mar 2011 19:16:24 +0100
Paul Sutton wrote:

> OK starting a sort of sub thread to the above
> (references to open office can also include libre office I am not
> typing both)
> 
> Lets say we want to present to the general public a similar way to
> that lug that was mentioned.
> 
> We would need to appeal to the general public which would include
> children and families so:
> 
> Start with a very quick explanation of what Open source software is
> (or what ever term we chose) what is the difference between, free
> software, OSS and FLOSS, etc.  make sure everyone is on the same page.

I think one of the ways to tackle this is to use a bunch of analogies
that they will be familiar with.

One of my favourites is:
 + professional footballers - when they play charity games for no
   charge, it doesn't automatically make them worse footballers.  A
   significant portion of those who contribute to Free Software also
   hold professional positions in, or at least work in the same field -
   just because they're giving the fruits of their skills away for free
   doesn't automatically mean it is of a lower quality than that which
   they produce in exchange for their salary.

I have a few others up my sleeve (JPs, St. John's Ambulance, charity
shop staff, etc) but I find that one seems to hold better sway with a
lot of people.

> Concerns regarding how would using open office affect my child's
> ability to do school work,  Solutions to schools insisting work is
> handed in or sent in in .doc or .docx format because the school uses
> related software.
> 
> Open source - a students perspective,   (this could cover how
> assignments need to be done or saved before submission and any issues
> that arise
> 
> Open Source - a lecturers perspective (say grant for this) If Grant
> can make it work then other equally qualified lecturers should with a
> little effort can also make it work.

Not a problem.  I'm happy to do a talk - just have to make sure I have
it clearly in my diary for quite some time beforehand...

Grant.

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