Grade: A

Cost: Free

I have reviewed and suggested Ubuntu before, but with their new upgrade to Ubuntu Feisty Fawn, I felt that it was a good time to talk about it again as a solution for schools. Schools face many interesting challenges, but the biggest is lack of current technology, older computers, donated computers, and lack of finances for software to keep everything working and running smoothly. Although it can’t fix everything Ubuntu can help us in some of these areas. Ubuntu is a free Open Source Linux operating system that includes a wide variety of software to get you started with most common tasks. Of all the Linux varieties out there Ubunto is probably the easiest to get up and running. It also includes great software that gets you going, including a word processor, a spreadsheet, presentation software, firefox, email, and much more. Edubuntu is the education or kid friendly version that comes bundled with the basic applications as well as many educational titles. If you have an older computer that needs something more secure that an unsupported version of windows, or a donated pc that your not sure about software licencing on, or you just want a fun alternative, Ubuntu Feisty Fawn, and Edubuntu are a great choice.

The biggest strength in the new version of office is what Microsoft now calls the ribbon. This new feature and user interface makes it easy to find advanced features that were somewhat buried in menus in previous versions. It makes it easy for basic users to become power users. I have seen many articles that contend that the change in the interface is going to require a significant investment in retraining employees and teachers to use the new system. I don’t agree! There will be some training necessary, however the intuitive nature of the new interface will make it easier to train and over time the need for training on Office products will be significantly reduced. Office 2007 will also make it easier for students to get amazing results on student projects.

There are many internal enhancements that allow for greater collaboration capabilities, and integration with other products. One example is it’s new blogging features. You can create a blog post from within Microsoft Office and directly submit the post from within word. The collaboration capabilities will make it easier for students to work together on projects. Many months ago I looked at Open Office 2.0, and stated that it was a close toss up when compared with MS Office, well now now there is a clear winner. MS office 2007 is clearly the best Office application available.