An interesting case study which looks at the cost of switching from Windows to Mac or Linux machines in a school. Provides good examples of the real world costs of IT, as well as other issues such as software availability and training.
A FAQ from Educase answering common questions schools might have when considering the switch to Google Apps. Also has examples of schools that have decided for and against the switch.
A very clear explanation of how a voice-recognition system works, with useful diagrams. Very helpful for the System Fundamentals part of the course, and provides an opportunity to discuss analog and digital data too.
A series of videos that explain how different technologies work. A bit like the 'In Plain English' videos. Videos available include hardware, Email, and networking. Best suited for students with limited IT knowledge with whom you need to cover the basics.
New York Times review of the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) machine (aka $100 laptop). Contains good details on the design and specifications. An older article (2007) but still a worthy look at one of the biggest and most famous projects of this type. Includes a video where David Pogue demonstrations throwing water over the machine and dropping it from 4ft (students always like that bit :D)
Four case studies of schools that have converted to open source software. Good coverage of the software being used as well as the effects on the students, teachers, and IT staff.
An overview of the computer used by Stephen Hawking to communicate despite the disability ALS causes him. Includes details of the hardware, software, and communication systems used.
Revision notes on hardware, software, and networks basics. Designed for GCSE but a useful first step for students who have limited technical experience.
An article detailing Intel's planned migration from Windows XP to Windows 7. Covers many pertinent points including 64-bit computing, legacy application compatibility, issues with new OS security features, and so on. A good insight into the problems faced in real life organizations during large-scale roll-outs.
"In Plain English" series of videos. These are no longer available on YouTube but can be seen here. A variety of topics are covered including Hardware, Software, Phishing, Blogs, and Wikis. Very clear explanations in a fun style.
A detailed study of the Therac-25 radiation overdose accidents. Rare but easily avoided software bugs in the Therac-25 cancer treatment machine caused six accidents and three deaths. Additionally, many of the stakeholders contributed to the problem through their action or inaction. The fact that the machine was in service for 3 years without error, yet then killed 3 people in two years, gives an interesting insight into how we define "reliable".
This case provides an interesting focus for a debate on reliability, dependency on IT, and responsibility for failures.
These pages contain a HUGE amount of detail and so I would recommend summarising them for students - especially ESL students. However, if this is done a lively debate can definitely be had.
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