Virtual Machine and GameMaker 8.0 Testing Errors

To whom it may concern,

Our team has noticed a critical flaw in the implementation of GameMaker 8.0 and Virtual Machine. We would like a clarification of how to proceed with our work under the following constraints:

Firstly, virtual machine is only installed on the computers inside the lab, and no instructions are given as to how to download it onto other computers inside the university. This kind of seems limiting, seeing as how many individuals need to build their programs outside of classroom and on their own time.

Secondly, even on the computers inside the lab, it is not possible to test any files made with GameMaker 8.0. Doing so will prompt an video drive error. If we cannot test our files, then how is it possible to make an effective prototype using supplied products?

Thirdly, I have tried downloading both GameMaker and Virtual Machine on to the computers outside the lab, still on Linux. But even when permission is granted to run their respective setup files, Linux is still unable to run the program because the .exe files are in binary code.

It would be excellent if someone could provide instructions as to how to circumvent or solve these technical difficulties. Otherwise I'll just have to skip class to work on my project (which is even worse, since it is a barrier to interacting with my group).

Thank you,
Stephen Dixon