I would like to work towards compiling a Free Textbook elaborating on how to use GNU software in schools. It could be modelled on the Free Encyclopedia Project outlined elaborately by RMS (see the book 'No Sir, No Monopoly: Free Software -- A Perspective', Prajasakti, Hyderabad 2002).

This book would primarily be in the English language, copylefted (free to reprint) and would accept chapters written in an easy-to-understand style.

Ideally, the book would cover the introduction-to-computers course, that students need to know to get started in Free Software. I am not an expert in this field, but am willing to take the initiative to coordinate contributions, unless someone else (or a team) is willing to take up this duty.

What we perhaps need to get started is:

o agree on topics to be covered (keeping this loose-ended, so that suitable topics could be added on at any stage) o decide the format in which text and illustrations/ screenshots are to be presented o be clear about the best method of keeping this knowledge copylefted o take a look at existing efforts (from whichever part of the globe) that could be suitably incorporated in our plans, without difficulties

Your comments, suggestions and criticism is welcome. FN