"Each classroom should be equipped with a short-throw digital projector and a teaching computer (laptop), a visualiser and a wireless keyboard and mouse. The digital projector should be fixed in position and cabled to the teaching computer. There should be access to an acceptable white projection surface. This cost of this technology configuration within each classroom is approximately €4,270 (see table 1).

These recommendations are premised on the availability of internet access, via the schools broadband network, distributed throughout the schools via the school’s local area network (LAN). The network should include network points in each classroom."

A model of inspired education, Sunrise School strives to develop young adults who are confident, responsible and creative builders of their futures. Sunrise School will provide a challenging and inclusive education with an emphasis on the whole child and on learning in a cooperative, community-centered environment.

I don't buy the "use a familiar UI" argument when it comes to primary education. At that age level, you're not trying to teach them "computers" like you would teach them math. You are trying to excite them about learning in general, and have them think of learning as fun. Or have you though the Leapfrog a waste of time for a child because it didn't have a windowing GUI?

Once children become teens, and there is a near-term possibility for them to enter the workforce, I'm all for them switching to office automation-type software, and they'll pick it up quickly. Its an evolution – like your hardware graph.

Once trained on a windowing UI, they can move back and forth. Yes, there is dissonance, but its relatively easy. I switched to Mac last year, and after a few hick-ups from my years of Windows, I'm now Mac-fluent enough to be quick. I am still at a loss on Ubuntu thought. You just need to give it time – you've probably forgotten how hard it was to learn DOS, then Windows.

With regard to a "single learning model," the cautionary point I would make is that while a unique learning platform that enhances the learning experience is clearly beneficial, if this environment is so radically different than what is experienced on the majority of computers in use locally and globally, then the increased learning experience can be offset by the lack of understanding of how to use a typical computer. Even I struggle to do some basic things on the Mac, regardless of how intuitive and slick it is, having spent most of the last 20 years using a DOS/Windows PC. At the end, it is all about balance … teaching practical skills while enhancing the learning experience.