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Are Colleges Helping to Maintain the Microsoft Monopoly?
lexus99 asks: "Recently, while attending college and wanting to take tests in order to avoid taking basic computer courses, I have signed up for a few SAM (Skills Assessment Manager) tests. What really surprised me is that these tests are entirely based upon Microsoft products (Windows XP and Office XP). Note that this course is -required- before taking any any of the more advanced courses. Is this not a clear cut case of U.S. Colleges forcing its students to exclusively use Microsoft's software? Does Microsoft pay for this 'privledge', or do the schools get some type of M$ discounts? I don't believe that I will have any problem passing these tests, as I frequently use M$ software in my workplace, but I cannot help but feel insulted that I have to take them in order to take more advanced UNIX courses." This issue is a lot more complex than it sounds. Many colleges fall into Microsoft's software because they do get decent volume discounts and Microsoft provides them with decent service, so why change what works? However, with the new licensing schemes that Microsoft is beginning to push, maybe we'll see some change in this area in the near future. Have any of you seen evidence of Microsoft worming it's way into your college courses?
This person clearly is not competent enough to teach an intro to computers class...
Dude, where did this come from? Did you get up on the wrong side of the bed, or what?
I hope I never piss you off, BitGeek. "Clearly not competent?" Jeebus. I'd hate to hear what you'd call somebody you'd actually met.
I write in my journal
What is this?!
You are in college, and you can't spell 'privilege' correctly? Did you pay your way there? What can we do about it!?!?
Good grief. You're lucky they're not making you take a spelling test, too. Good luck testing out of your basic computing skills class!
~GoRK