Open+Source

= = = = Let's talk about [|Ubuntu]. Wow. It's what they call a "flavor" of Linux. What is [|Linux]? I installed Ubuntu on a home computer this summer. It has already installed on it several freeware or [|open source] programs. I hope there will be a computer available for teachers to play around with a bit that has a version of Ubuntu on it called Edubuntu. Maybe in the faculty room?

If you don't want to commit to the whole Ubuntu/Linux operating system, there are several compelling programs you might want to check out. Open Source can replace many costly software options. Check them out.

[| OpenOffice] replaces Microsoft Office (word processing, spreadsheet, presentation) [| Firefox] replaces IE (both free, but Firefox is more standards compliant) In my opinion, Firefox is a much more desirable browser. [| The Gimp] replaces Photoshop (though some people I've spoken to say it still doesn't measure up) [| Audacity] for audio is available for any platform--I hear our very own Garageband on our Apple laptops is actually better. [| Bluefish] replaces Dreamweaver. And what about [|Joomla]? It looks cool too.

Here's why this stuff (the above mentioned Ubuntu and others) is so cool. You can take any old computer. I do mean old. Like DI old, folks. And install Ubuntu. Very quickly you will have a fast running system that lets you do at least if not more than a current, hot-out-of- the-box, money-sucking, new machine. Imagine the possibilities for home computing. Even more globally, imagine the possibilities for getting solid, inexpensive, working internet active computers into the hands of anyone who wants one.

=Course Management= Ever heard of course management software? This stuff is FREE and POWERFUL!

It's software that helps you manage the material of your classroom. Material like quizzes, papers, blogs, grades can all be managed with a variety of software programs. With **[|Moodle],** you can administer quizzes and the program will grade them for you. I've even heard it can link to Powerschool and put the grades in for you. Another neat application I've heard about is that students can submit papers to Moodle and then revise them. The program tracks changes so you can keep track of how students are editing and drafting their own work.

Really I don't know that much yet. Have a look at the website. I have some ideas about how to set up a local server in your classroom using old dinosaur desktops. Here's a [|link to a class] I took this summer on setting up a server to run Moodle. My instructor made it for our class. I now actually have a server set up and running in my room this year. I'll let you know how it goes.

Janice heard of another one that is maybe even better. Perhaps more powerful-? and more simple-? to operate called **[|Sakai].** Her daughter's university uses it.