Using Edubuntu Linux in Your Homeschool
Using an Open Source Operating System for Home Education
Feb 16, 2009
If you're unfamiliar with Open Source software, the idea of switching from Windows or Mac OS to a free program that you downloaded from the Internet might take a bit of getting used to, but the change will be worth it. You'll have all the usual functions of your computer available, but with more speed and much less hard drive space used. You'll also have a much more secure computer, since nearly all malware is written for Windows, and because Linux, the premier Open Source operating system, is built with security in mind.
Edubuntu Linux
Linux comes in a wide variety of different types for different needs, from running older computers that can't handle newer space hogging programs to running the computer systems of entire government departments all over the world.
Edubuntu is a version of Linux designed especially for students and teachers. It is rapidly becoming popular with schools around the world, and it is very useful for homeschoolers also. This is because, not only is it free, it comes with a wide variety of educational software that is available in many languages, with support for people with disabilities. You can even alter the programs, copy them, share them, etc.
Edubuntu comes with free software for every level of learning:
The KDE Educational Project has games like Hangman and Phonics a map-matching game, graphic algebra and geometry programs and much more.
The GComprisprograms are excellent learning tools for 3 to 8 year olds.
Tux for Kids offers creative outlets, like a painting for kids. It is one of the most well-crafted and interesting children's painting programs out there (Windows and Mac versions are available for free also!) It even has a lock which keeps children in the program so that they can't wreaking havoc on the rest of your computer.
Parents will like the SchoolTool Calendar, which helps organize the family schedule and keep track of lessons, grades and planning.
The Open Office Suite offers word processor, spreadsheet, presentations, simple vector drawing and web authoring. It is, in according to many users, much better than the most widely-used office program.
There are many programs available for high school and college science programs, including Celestia, which is a space simulation, BK Chem, which edits chemical reactions, and even Scibuntu, which is Ubuntu for scientists and science students.
You can download many more free software programs, and many Windows programs play in Linux using the WINE program. The main drawback is that some Windows game don't play well in Linux even with WINE, but some play even better.
Edubuntu Installation
See screenshots and get more information from Edubuntu.com. If you would like to try the basic operating system out before you install it, just download Ubuntu onto a CD, insert the disk into your CD or DVD drive and select the "live" option.This will not install the program, but it will give you a chance to take it for a test drive.
If you decide to install Edubuntu,which is actually Ubuntu with more features, simply download Edubuntu on to two CDs, then follow the instructions for installation. It is quick and easy. You can also set up a dual boot system, which means that your computer will give you the option of whether to run Edubuntu or Windows.
If you need tech support, check out the Ubuntu free community support pages.If you're unfamiliar with Open Source software, the idea of switching from Windows or Mac OS to a free program that you downloaded from the Internet might take a bit of getting used to, but the change will be worth it. You'll have all the usual functions of your computer available, but with more s
There is, of course, a learning curve for any new application, but you may be surprised at how quickly you learn to navigate in Edubuntu, and at how quickly your children turn into your junior tech support. With many businesses and government agencies turning to Linux-based systems to save money and provide greater security, and most servers running on Linux operating systems, you'll be giving your kids a head start on the future. You'll also have more options for learning right now.
Edubuntu Linux is a very good choice of operating system for homeschoolers who want flexibility, security and a variety of educational software. It is endlessly adaptable to the internet and to all ages of students. It's also free!
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