Word Processing
From OLPC
[edit] Introduction
The OLPC will not be used in a typical first world environment with printers, cheap paper supplies and postal service. However, there will still be a need for children to practice composition, write essays, etc. Some type of word processor tailored to this environment will be an asset.
[edit] Projects
There is currently one project funded by the Abiword Summer of Code program, to develop a suitable Abiword UI for the OLPC. Erik Pukinskis is completing a full review of the AbiWord features and interface, as well as examining the target markets and keeping up with the OLPC design lead in developing a completely new interface for AbiWord on the OLPC which will build on our existing embedded platform support to provide the simplified, discovery-positive experience sought for the laptop project.
[edit] Text editor
For simplicity's sake, a text editor such as gedit (mentioned here) might fill 90% of the writing needs of students.
- uses pango to render unicode fonts
- spellchecking
- simple interface
However, it could be argued (and information Erik has found in his research supports) that students really enjoy changing the formatting of text, as a method of personalization or "feeling grown-up" and capable.
