1. Linux Tutorial Bret E. Shaw ’03 Computer Science Union College

2. Overview Define project Explain the need Show current tutorials Reveal tutorial ideas Discuss process Discuss testing Discuss future

3. What is Linux? Operating system –e.g.: Microsoft Windows Derived from Unix Tutorial focus: Command line –Unlike windows, not always a graphical interface –Type in commands

4. The Project: Part 1 Research –What makes for a good online tutorial? –What is the best method of self-teaching? –What helps for better retention of information? Research methods –Interview Psychology professors –Study other tutorials –Research the art of teaching

5. The Project: Part 2 Create a Linux tutorial –Interactive web resource –Target beginners –Information: Background of the Linux System Present the file system of Linux Majority: Discuss commands of Linux

6. Why a Linux Tutorial? Linux (and other Unix variants) currently run on 80% of the world’s Internet servers –Free –Open source (Code is included w/ program) –Reliable –Very compatible for multi-user, multi-function Students should know how to use it fully –Used in businesses as well as schools http://ispltd.com/howto/whylinux.html

7. Current Tutorials Shortcomings –Text-based –Not interactive –Confusing –Frustrating –Cost money

8. Poor Design: Online Tutorial http://grouchy.cs.indiana.edu/usr/local/www/linux/gs/chapter2.6.html

9. Poor Design: L nix http://www.alberts.com/authorpages/00001403/prod_76.htm

10. $10.99 Please

11. Better: Linux Tutorial http://www.linuxsurvival.com/

15. The Process Attack project on two fronts –How to Self-Teach Collaboration with Psychology professors Study tutorials –How to’s –Existing tutorials –Linux as an operating system Research topics Organize lesson plan Write information presentably

16. How to Self-Teach Learning Aides –Iterative learning –Divide tutorial into 15 minute sections –Emphasize BCD in an ABCDE learning process –Creative Mnemonics, Pertinent Graphics Dr. Daniel Burns and Dr. Seth Greenberg of the Union College Psychology Department

17. My Tutorial Design Much like Linux Survival –“Summary Sandwich” –Present Information –Quiz the user –Interact with the user

23. Testing Perform tests on human subjects (2 rounds) First round: –Test which methods of information presentation work best –“Bored Key” and “Overwhelmed Key” –Email to users after 1 week to determine retention Second round: –Final tests to check for last minute adjustments

24. Questions?