It should be pointed out network booting does not require Internet connection but does require a bunch of network wires run between the Pi computers used by the students an extra Pi that functions as a server. This is probably too much for a typing class, but would be useful if students are expected to save their work.Depending on who is creating them, what content you want on them, etc, there are various solutions for solving this problem.That's to minimize time for downloading the image and creating multiple SD cards for a class of pupils.
sdm simplifies the process of creating a common IMG tailored as you like it, and then burning a pile of SD cards from that IMG, each customized as appropriate (e.g., usernames, passwords, etc)
Another solution is network booting. I’m sure there are others, but it’s still early here
Note WiFi is not sufficient for network booting but could be used to allow students access to a common printer. It would also be possible to set up an electronic homework submission system without needing Internet connectivity.
My experience with a teaching in a computer lab is that the first time around one keeps discovering software that isn't installed but needs to be installed for the next lesson. By the third time through the course such things seldom happen.
From this point of view I install everything I can think in the beginning with the hope I don't have to redo anything halfway through the course. Of course once the Pi computers are booting and running in the lab there are other ways to add and update software without having to rewrite SD card images. Even so, it's an inconvenience to have to do updates part way through a course.
Statistics: Posted by ejolson — Tue Nov 19, 2024 5:52 pm