[Wireless-general] gypsy / travellers' distance learning wireless access project

[vortex]

Call for comments / APC / GN collaboration:

The following is a slightly edited version of very initial discussions /
planning we've been having on a likely very useful project.

Who are we? 

The core group are the authors behind the "UK Legal Aspects of Open Public Networks"
document presented at Imperial College (ntk notcon 2) last year 
(shortly to be published on-line at www.networkcommons.org). 
The authors' experience and skill sets include deep technical computer, wireless, and networking skils,
combined with direct, long term legal experience and understanding of issues that impact
transient population groups. The core group are .nbco, vortex (free2air), and Bruce M. Simpson.

Why post this here?

Greennet and APC have long term experience, skills and respect in the area of rigorous 
feasability studies that embrace holistic sociopolitical and inclusive technical implications. 

We think it could be a good fit, welcome any and all comments, and look forward to potential collaboration.

Note again, this represents very initial discussions. 


An initial feasibility study to assess the possibility of providing wireless
internet access on Gypsy sites is being planned.  The intention is to find out whether
such free access would be used and/or useful to assist children access
educational resources and adults to gain information.  The internet is
an increasingly used resource in many households and Gypsies by way of
their nomadic lifestyle are frequently excluded from this medium.

Post feasibility, we would envisage starting a pilot study in the order of about 12 sites, 
this number being a cross section of all major types of Gypsy sites, eg. New;
Traditional; Irish; public and private.  At this time remote rural
sites cannot be included as broadband internet services are frequently
not available in such areas.

-- 
vortex <vortex at free2air.org>
free2air