> To be serious (for once) I think it's terrific that "kids" are interested
> in old computers. To show an interest in machines that in some cases
> predate themselves shows a reverence and appreciation for computer
> technology, and this is the type of person the world needs to continue
> progress. Seriously. Back in the 50s the US was on such a push to
> emphasize technology in schools, but nowadays we are teaching kids how to
> be users and nothing more. I'm glad to see younger folks taking it upon
> themselves to explore technology at a more fundamental level. These are
> the ones who will become the great programmers and engineers of the
> future.
>
> One of the things I am doing to promote appreciation of old computers and
> computer history amongst the younger generation is preparing a
> mini-lecture on computer history that I plan to give at local schools (for
> free of course). My idea is to show them how we got to where we are today
> with computing technology, for example showing them an evolution of disk
> drive technology by comparing a ZIP drive to a 3.5" to a 5.25" to an 8" to
> paper tape to punch cards, etc. And actually bringing the drives in too!
>
> It won't interest all of them, or even most of them, but the ones that
> were waiting to discover computers will certainly "get it", and those are
> the ones I want to reach.
>
> Plus once I get them hooked I can then recruit them to do menial tasks for
> the VCF Archives like cataloguing books and schlepping stuff around ;)
>
> Sellam Ismail Vintage Computer Festival
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> International Man of Intrigue and Danger http://www.vintage.org
>
I'd like to see your mini-lecture notes when you're thru. I'm planning on
retiring to the boonies of rural Manitoba this summer and have similiar ideas
Kid's and seniors are the main inhabitants since most young people leave
as there's no work. There's also a large Indian Reserve. Overcoming the
seniors techno-fear and showing how these boxes can be more interesting
and helpful tools than continuous Bingo games or TV will be challenging to
say the least.
larry
Reply to:
lgwalker_at_look.ca
Received on Mon Apr 09 2001 - 06:02:14 BST