Student resources

Update your softwares

Sometimes you may find yourself needing new versions of word processing software or image editing tools for one reason or another. An assignment may be due and you or your parents can’t afford to purchase new software. All is not lost. There are high quality open source software packages available for free. All you have to do is download them. These are not shareware, nor are they pirate programs. They are legally available, free programs. Most of the programs are actually available for all three platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux, the upstart Unix variant that is available freely for the same systems that run Windows and Mac. (Note: These links open in a new window. The Kanehsatà:ke Education Center assumes no responsibility for off-site links.)

Software Resources

X11 Quartz

X11 Quartz is an open-source version of software that Apple bundles with OS X, except better. You’ll need this for Inkscape and for other open-source software to run on Mac. Install this first.

Writing

Libre Office

Libre Office is a Microsoft Office-like office suit and includes database access like software, vector drawing and presentation software.

AbiWord

AbiWord is another Word-like processor program but pared down to essentials. Some people prefer this to Libre Office. Both open Word Perfect documents in addition to Microsoft Word documents.

Celtx

Celtx began as a Firefox add on but then turned into a full-fledged scripting program. It is called the “Number one choice for media pre-production.”

Scribus

Scribus is currently being used by many professional magazines and newspapers for both online and print editions. This Open Source Desktop Publishing app is available for Linux, Mac OS X and Windows, and is similar to Quark and InDesign.

Audio Production

Audacity

Audacity is free, open-source software for recording and editing sounds. It is available for Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, GNU/Linux and other operating systems. It won’t do absolutely high end work but it will do high quality work. As well, there are plenty tutorials online and books available at your favorite online bookstore if you need help.

Ardour

Ardour describes itself as “the new digital audio workstation”. It features multitrack recording, non-destructive non-linear editing and unlimited undo. It also exports to standard file formats. Only available for Mac and Linux. The developers request payment so they can continue to develop the program.

JACK

JACK was designed from the ground up for professional audio work. Available for Mac, Windows and Linux. This page has a list of audio applications that are available to work with JACK.

Image Editing/Creation

Inkscape

With Inkscape, draw freely. An SVG vector program, it has been used to create website mockups, graphics and commercial art. This is a professional grade program, open-source and free.

GIMP

GIMP is Photoshop’s clone. This has a somewhat steep learning curve, but then, so does Photoshop. There are versions available for Linux, Mac and Windows. The Mac and Windows versions are native apps that do not require any helpers like X11 Quartz to run. As well, there are plenty online tutorials and books available at your favorite online bookstore if you need help.

Anti-Virus

For Mac users :

https://www.clamxav.com/

For Windows users :

https://www.clamwin.com/

Book Cataloging

Calibre

Calibre (open-source) is a book and e-book catalogue which can also store and keep a database of your collection. In addition, it allows you to read your ebooks through the app right on your computer with the ability to bookmark, jump ahead and back in chapters, search for terms and more. You can also use the app to transfer ebooks to your device of choice. It is availabe for all three platforms.

Linux

If you want to try out Linux without installing it, several distributions have ‘Live CDs’ available. Here are just a few that are all free to download:

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a South African based Linux that is very popular among new users.

Fedora

Fedora is the community created version of Red Hat Linux – That is, before the Official Red Hat Linux gets released, it starts life as Fedora. Confused? Try not to be! This is a fantastic, polished Linux operating system.

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is for people who like their Ubuntu with a dash of green. I’m joking – but only just. The other selling point of Linux Mint is that they have versions that bundle media codecs that other distros can’t due to legal restrictions according to different country laws.

Other Resources

ALISON – Free online learning website proving hugely popular for ICT skills training Free Interactive Learning, Skills Training for ECDL, ICDL, BCS Unit-E, BCS e-Citizen, ICT, Internet, Financial Literacy, Psychometric Testing, for staff, students and individuals. https://alison.com/