Peer Review

Linux Survival

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Reviewed:: Feb 18, 2011 by Information Technology

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Ratings

Overall Rating:

Content Quality:

Effectiveness:

Ease of Use:

Overview:: This tutorial is a series of interactive and engaging modules on learning the basics of working in a Linux environment. The users have an option of either going through these modules in a Windows or Solaris OS or Linux. The modules are intended for a varied audience of Linux novice users(high school students, college students, or professionals). The website itself (including the non module components) is up to date and the author provides an option of signing up for a mailing list when new modules are added. It is helpful for the users to have a general knowledge of Windows, however, very basic familiarity is sufficient. The material covers a variety of basic topics, including assigning access to various groups and who to contact (system administrator) to get started. There is also basic discussion about Linux security. The material is presented in a non threatening, humorous, and engaging manner. Learning Goals: The simulation teachers users how to navigate in Linux OS such as moving or copying files, creating directories, appending files, or working with users. There is a short discussion about security in linux. The authors explain the differences in security "single user (windows) vs multi user (Linux)" in Linux. It is commendable that the authors discuss this aspect in training learners on Linux basics. Any time users work with technology, there should be a consideration for security issues or at least a short discussion on this subject. Target Student Population: High school students, college students, or professionals. Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: Basic knowledge of Windows operating system is helpful because the module is using comparison between Linux and Windows, however, no more than beginner's knowledge is really required to start working in the module. Computer literacy and knowledge of browser navigation. Making sure that Java plugin is installed.
Type of Material:: Simulation
Recommended Uses:: It is an excellent introductory tutorial for Linux novices. Although it is a tutorial on the basics, it's still recommended that intermediate users look at it if a refresher is needed. Furthermore, the other component of this material is an excellent website with additional Linux resources targeted to a variety of users at different levels. This tutorial would be an excellent supplementary tool either for a hands on lab exercise during class time or a great drill and practice "Linux basics boot camp workout" after class.
Technical Requirements:: Web Browser Linux Survival should work on any Web browser that properly supports Java. It has been tested on the following browsers: Firefox 3.x It is an excellent introductory tutorial for Linux novices. Although it is a tutorial on the basics, it's still recommended that intermediate users look at it if a refresher is needed. Furthermore, the other component of this material is an excellent website with additional Linux resources targeted to a variety of users at different levels. This tutorial would be an excellent supplementary tool either for a hands on lab exercise during class time or a great drill and practice "Linux basics boot camp workout" after class. Technical Requirements: Web Browser Linux Survival should work on any Web browser that properly supports Java. It has been tested on the following browsers: Firefox 3.x Netscape Communicator 4.61, 4.7, and 6.2 Mozilla 1.0.1 Internet Explorer 5.x, 8 Operating System Linux Survival has been tested on the following operating systems: Ubuntu 10.x Red Hat Linux 5.2, 6.2, and 7.2 Windows95, Windows 2000, Windows XP MacOS Solaris 7 It runs fine on Firefox 3.16.13 IE 7 and 8 (as stated above) and on Chrome. The users should make sure that the Java plugin is running properly as stated above (and tested).
Identify Major Learning Goals:: The simulation teachers users how to navigate in Linux OS such as moving or copying files, creating directories, appending files, or working with users. There is a short discussion about security in linux. The authors explain the differences in security "single user (windows) vs multi user (Linux)" in Linux. It is commendable that the authors discuss this aspect in training learners on Linux basics. Any time users work with technology, there should be a consideration for security issues or at least a short discussion on this subject.
Target Student Population:: High school students, college students, or professionals.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:: Basic knowledge of Windows operating system is helpful because the module is using comparison between Linux and Windows, however, no more than beginner's knowledge is really required to start working in the module. Computer literacy and knowledge of browser navigation. Making sure that Java plugin is installed.

Content Quality

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Strengths:: There are several very strong points to this tutorial: 1. It is very concise. 2. The authors use a very entertaining approach (running a zoo) and have a great sense of humor as well as a flair for mnemonic learning. Certain commands, such as combining files, will be easier to remember especially for Alice in Wonderland fans ("cat jabber wocky, beware of the Jabberwork"....). The selection of jokes to try to learn the commands is helpful. It takes the fear of learning how to start with Linux 3. Very clear explanations of the basic commands. 4. When the users respond correctly, there is some additional feedback on the correct answer in some modules. There are also nice visual representations of how particular commands work "cat jabber wocky>poem" 5. Again, a very good collection of various websites for different users (the author is clearly encouraging further exploration, learning, and practice to appreciate the use of Linux). The simulations run without any issues, all links work, and all the basics are covered.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

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Strengths:: This simulation is an excellent drill and practice material. First and foremost, a learning environment must be safe. The users should feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. This material is an excellent hands on exercise. It can be done in class or outside of class. The advantage of using it outside of class (as a homework assignment), would allow the users to work through the processes, take the quiz, and make notes on questions they could ask in class. It's also commendable that the author provides a clear means of contact for sharing learner's feedback on the modules, what other Linux training can be added, or technical concerns.
Concerns:: To make these modules even more useful (they are already a great resource), it would be very helpful for the authors to do the following: 1. Offer a quick download able short guide of the basic commands and basic troubleshooting (something like a pocket card that can be downloaded on a PC, a tablet, a smartphone, a netbook, or, should there be a need, printed out. 2. Feedback: in its current form, the users will receive feedback on correct and incorrect responses, however, they are told what should be done, not why it should be done. The authors could make the feedback more expansive. 3. In addition, a short FAQ could be offered on "What is Linux and why should I bother learning it."

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

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Strengths:: The modules are extremely well organized with a table of contents. The users cannot get disoriented in the simulation. The modules are staggered from the bare bones basics to slightly advanced material and are sequential. The approach would be very useful if tailored to learning other systems or software programs. The way it's designed, it takes the fear out of learning the new material. For a user who could be very familiar with a variety of software programs but not operating systems such as Linux, it could be a challenge to start working in Linux. This module helps solve such a challenge. It's a great simulation.

Other Issues and Comments:: To make the simulation even more useful, the authors could include a component for the learners to print a feedback page with completed tasks, number correct, number incorrect, and a link to look at the feedback for each of those.
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