Student Nurse Linux Users?

[lasante]

Hello all!

First things first: I'm glad to become a part of this community! I was accepted to Samuel Merritt's ABSN (San Mateo) 2007 and will be attending the June 1st orientation. Looking forward to meeting fellow student nurses and colleagues!

I'm sure I'll have a better idea after June 1st, however, I was wondering if anyone might have pointers/ideas/experience with the various technical needs.

I'm currently looking at various PDA's, not wanting to deal with the learning curve when I start an intensive program.

The main obstacle right now, however, is a laptop. I come from a unix/Mac OS background and am looking at those platforms for nursing school and post-nursing. A linux option would be very cost-efficient. However, are there software-specific issues I need to be aware of? Is there software required/important for nursing school that is Mac/Windows-specific? If yes, this makes the Mac-option (much more expensive) become more important. Urgh.

Any ideas/input would be welcome!

Thanks!

[NikkiRN_BSN]

I think that's going to depend. I use linux on my desktop at the moment. OpenOffice files saved in Word format or rich text files has been accepted by all my instructors without a problem if I need to e-mail assignments. I have M$ Winblows on my lappy. I can't change this if I want to connect to the school's Wifi. It requires Windows or Mac since the networks Citrix Clean Agent only works on those operating systems. It also required installing IE 7 and I can almost hear my laptop's pain

Any software that is required for a class gets run on my laptop. If you only have one computer ask around your school to find out what software is currently required and whether the CD also has a Mac version on it before you make a decision. The other thing to think about is that the school has computer labs that will have windows on them and often a nursing lab where you can run course specific software.

[WDWpixieRN, RN]

i think as pointed out above that your biggest problem will be any blackboard usage or anything similar that's run on the school's servers. we use blackboard for assignments, videos, grades posting, etc. the only thing i see when i attempt to access our version of blackboard online is this message:

** information regarding windows vista and internet explorer 7 **

please note that windows vista and internet explorer 7 are not supported on our version of blackboard. all users are encouraged not to install vista or ie7. however, there are two workarounds available:

1. configure ie7: link eliminated

2. use the firefox web browser: link eliminated

so that might be a consideration, although as you can see, ours doesn't mention your os.

otherwise, it's all office software, primarily word and powerpoint.

best wishes!!

[lasante]

Thanks for the feedback. I'll keep these points in mind for the orientation. At present, I'm veering towards OSX coupled with Palm TX. Input and usage comments are always welcome!

Can't wait for orientation and classes!!

[meandragonbrett]

I use macs exclusively. Good luck!

[ffweste]

I come from a MAC family and my sister ( who is a MAC genius) has linked a Palm Treo synching it with her MAC and thanks to the new Iphone - she is giving me that Palm Treo ( I love my baby sister :) ). If you have specific questions - pm me and I will ask her and let you know what she says!