A very interesting Kano project appeared on the Kickstarter website. It's basically a simple build-it-yourself computer. But it offers unlimited programming possibilities, as it works on an open-source system.
As he says Alex Klein, one of the founders: "The original idea was to create a simple and fun computer kit that anyone can use to get a sense of the "birth" of the computer, create great games and feel the possibility of creation." The idea or the request was made by seven-year-old Micah, Alex's cousin, who wanted a computer that would be as simple as Lego blocks and teach him how to make a game. Exactly one year later, Kano is on the verge of a major launch.
The heart of the computer will be the motherboard Raspberry Pi with an operating system based on Debian Linux, the size of a credit card. In the €75 package, you will also get a keyboard, small speaker, HDMI, mini-usb and ethernet cable, Wi-Fi receiver, power cable and adapter, manuals, protective box with various tiles and fun stickers. In the beginning, it will guide you through 6 levels - Make a Computer, Video, Snake, Pong, Minecraft and Music, while teaching you the basics of the programming language that you can later apply to your games. If you are not keen on games, you will be able to edit video, music or just watch movies in high quality by connecting to a TV set.
The project has global dimensions, as it would contribute to the development and computer literacy of children in the third world. It will be available in English, Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin, and they promise to translate it into more languages on the fly. At the time of writing, the project has already surpassed its desired funding goal of $100,000.
