Teachers' toolkit for creating and re-purposing OER using FOSS/Installing Ubuntu - creating the FOSS platform
Introduction
Ubuntu GNU/Linux is a Linux based Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) Operating System (OS). Ubuntu installation is quite simple, and can be done by an average computer user.
Basic requirements
The minimum hardware required to install Ubuntu in a computer:
- Minimum 40GB or above free space / separate partition.
- Minimum 2GB RAM (4GB and above preferred)
- DVD reader or USB port.
- Electric power should be available during the installation process.
You will also need the Ubuntu software in a DVD or in a pen drive (as a boot-able USB device). You can download the software here.
Installation Process
If you are installing in a computer already in use, you should take a back-up of your data before installation.
Installing Ubuntu as a stand-alone Operating System
If your computer does not have any operating system, steps for installation are available in this document
Installing Ubuntu alongside the Microsoft Windows Operating System
You may have bought a new computer with Windows pre-installed, or you may want to install Ubuntu on your existing computer, which has had Windows on it already. Steps for installation are available in this document
Using Ubuntu without installation
You may be unable to install Ubuntu on your computer, or you may be using a computer belonging to your institution, which does not allow you to install Ubuntu. In such a case, you could use still Ubuntu, by connecting a pen drive with bootable Ubuntu to your computer and using the 'Live' option.
(Of course, you should discuss with your institution, the benefits of using FOSS tools and platforms and encourage and persuade them to be open to allowing staff to installing FOSS tools on their systems. Such installation can be done alongside other applications on the computers, so there is no flip side to this).