As an elementary school computer teacher, I am always on the lookout for innovative technology that can make learning meaningful and engaging for my students. A few years back a co-worker showed me one such technology called Tux Paint. Tux Paint is an open source drawing program for students of all ages. The program is free to anyone and can be run on either a PC’s or MAC computer. The software can be downloaded at http://www.tuxpaint.org. I have used the program on both platforms and the main difference seems to be in the clip-art selection. The PC version has a more extensive library of clip-art than the MAC version.
Once installed the program allows students from Kindergarten up to create original and interactive art work, illustrations, shapes, and diagrams. Their work can then be uploaded to the gallery sections of Tux Paint’s website for peers, parents, and family to share. The program encourages student to interact with their creations by adding sounds to the visuals and effects. When students click on a dog in their picture, the dog will bark. This feature can add a whole new dynamic to a student's learning.
For me this program has been very easy to integrate into my lessons. It is very student friendly and easy to get the students started. It only takes a few minutes to install and within five or ten minutes your entire class can be exploring all that this drawing program has to offer.
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