G. Solomon and L. Schrum,
authors of Web 2.0: New Tools, New
Schools, suggest the use of “open-source educational applications” in
schools (2007). It combines the freedom of open-source tools and the needs of
educators to develop activities which are connected to school, state, and
national curriculum. The biggest challenge would be locating enthusiastic
programmers and educators who are willing to openly and actively communicate
and learn. Additionally, it could be beneficial to have students’ input during
the process.
The following Website contains of 50 open-source
applications which can replace traditional education programs.
TAKE A LOOK: http://tuxpaint.org/
This open-source program is great for children ages 3 and
up. It is a free application which can be used on Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux.
You and your children can create beautiful art with a
variety of exciting tools, including a paint brush, stamps, shapes, text, and “magical”
special effects. Try these:
- Self portrait- Take a look in the mirror!
- Recreate a scene from your
favorite story
- Create a picture to email or
mail to a family member or friend
