Plans for future of Kasm image templates

[TDWolff]

Current Feature Update List for Kasm Workspace

1. Extension Enhancements:

   • Increased the number of extensions in the Visual Studio Code (VSCode) environment to improve functionality and user experience.
   • Installed and configured the following extensions: GitHub Actions, Python, Docker, Remote Containers, and IntelliCode. These extensions provide a robust development environment, enabling features like containerization, intelligent code completion, and seamless GitHub integration.

2. Java Integration:

   • Added Java support to the workspace, providing an additional programming language for students to use in their projects.
   • Developed scripts for regular updates of Python and Java, ensuring that the workspace always has the latest stable versions of these languages.

3. Tool-less Version Development:

   • Initiated the creation of a tool-less version of the workspace. This version omits VSCode, Python, GitHub CLI, and Java, providing a minimal environment.
   • This version is designed to enable students to install the necessary tools for their school year projects, giving them hands-on experience with setting up their development environment.

4. Dockerfile Customizations:

   • Customized the Dockerfile to include installations of various tools and applications such as Google Chrome, Chromium, Sublime Text, Slack, VS Code, and Postman. These tools and applications enhance the functionality of the workspace and provide a wide range of utilities for students.
   • The Dockerfile and the src/ubuntu/install directory contain the scripts for installing these tools and applications.

5. Startup Scripts:

   • Developed custom startup scripts for each tool and application to ensure they run correctly in the Docker environment. These scripts handle tasks like setting up aliases and initializing services.
   • These scripts are located in the respective directories under src/ubuntu/install.

6. Workspace Template:

   • Created a template workspace for Kasm servers. This template includes base applications such as Google Chrome, providing a familiar browsing experience for students.
   • The template also includes Canvas and other default apps found on school-provided computers, creating a consistent environment for students transitioning from school computers to the Kasm workspace.

Future Plans

1. Additional Language Support:

   • Plan to add support for more programming languages based on student needs and course requirements.

2. Extension Updates:

   • Regularly update the installed VSCode extensions to ensure they have the latest features and security updates.

3. Workspace Customization:

   • Plan to provide more customization options for the workspace, allowing students to tailor the environment to their preferences.

4. Improved Documentation:

   • Plan to improve the documentation for the workspace, making it easier for students to understand how to use and customize their environment.

If there are any additional features or updates that need to be included, please let me know.