Educators have a limited – and sometimes non-existent technology budget. There are several excellent software programs that are free to download and use. Using them stretches those hard to come by budget dollars. They are simple to learn, easy to use, and make learning fun.
Google Docs
Google Docs is a suite of software that is available online. It has a word processing program, one for creating presentations, and one for making spreadsheets. These are similar in features and function to Microsoft’s Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Google Sky
Teach astronomy to your students with Google Sky. Look at millions of galaxies and stars. Study the solar system. Learn the names of the planets. Understand the myths surrounding the constellations.
Google SketchUp
Become a creator! Create and design 3D models of something as simple as a chair, something as complex as their dream home, or something as intriguing as an Egyptian pyramid. When students are finished with their project, they can export it as an image, turn it into a movie, and add it to a student showcase.
Google Earth
Capture the interest of students who do not like geography. Teachers can use this program to have access to geography around the world. After students have mastered the basics, students can learn about geography according to themes such as hiking or biking, architecture, oceanography, and broadcasting mediea. There is an interactive game that students love to play.
Picnik
This is a photo editing software. You can crop, rotate, resize, sharpen, and add cool effects. You can even remove red eyes from photos. You can add texts, frames, and ‘stickers’ to your photos. You can create a slideshow of your pictures or send them to Flickr. This is a great substitute for Photoshop.
r.