Software+1+-+Open+Office

Software #1 – Open Office
OpenOffice.org

__Use in Educational Setting –__

Open Office is a fantastic open source software that provides users with a Microsoft Office-like experience. The use of Open Office in an educational setting could allow students compose essays and complete additional word processing assignments. Open Office also has the capabilities to produce slide presentations similar to PowerPoint. Open Office offers an all-in-one program with capabilities like spreadsheets and drawing on top of the word processing and presentation building. The program is the perfect fit for a classroom that encourages computer-based education.

__Cost, Registration Issues -__

Coming in at a total of zero dollars and zero cents Open Office provides the users with a completely free program. After downloading and installing the program there is only a few minutes paperless paperwork that needs to be filled out. Registering the software is an option but is not required.

__Useful in what content and value to classroom -__

Open Office could be one of the most useful programs available to any classroom that uses word processing of any nature. With multiple functions other than just word processing the Open Office software allows users an all-in-one work environment. Perhaps the greatest value of the Open Office software is the simple fact it is free. With the rising cost of everything basically Open Office now allows users to prepare Microsoft Word-like projects without the high price tag of Microsoft Office.

__Meta-cognition and Open Office -__

Open Office is a huge supporter of meta-cognition. Open Office requires the user to assess the assignment or goal and determine what are the appropriate steps to complete the task. The user must know their personal strengths and weaknesses when compiling their essay. The user must apply prior knowledge to complete the assignment and Open Office provides the user with all the necessary tools and tips to fulfill their tasks.

__Open Office Product__