Wean your child off of Windows 11 and get them on Zorin OS 16 Education Linux distro

Back in August of 2021, we told you about Zorin OS 16 -- an absolutely brilliant Linux distribution for those switching from Windows. Its familiarity, polish, and inclusion of excellent software makes it not only a solid choice for Linux newbies, but experts too.

And now, Zorin OS 16 Education is here. This specialized version of the operating system is designed specifically for students. With many people believing Linux is the future, Zorin OS 16 Education should be a great way to teach your child about the open source kernel. If you let your young student rely solely on Windows 11, they could end up being unprepared and unequipped for the new Linux world.

"This new release of Zorin OS Education takes advantage of the new features and enhancements in Zorin OS 16, our most advanced operating system ever. These include a faster and improved desktop, easier onboarding with the new Tour, quicker navigation with touchpad gestures, and access to more apps than ever before, just to name a few. Improved hardware support also ensures that you’re getting the best experience on computers old and new," explains the Zorin OS development team.

The developers add, "It pairs the latest and greatest software with educational apps that make learning better and more impactful at pre-schools, primary and secondary schools. It helps prepare students with the skills they need to understand the world of today and build their world of tomorrow. With this release, we focused on providing a more compelling educational platform that adapts to your learning environment, whether you’re in the classroom or at home, with or without Internet access."

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The Zorin OS development team had added the useful Kolibri by default, and you can learn more about that app here. Below, the developers also share four new education-focused programs that are included in this version of the operating system -- plus a description of each.

• Minder is a powerful mind-mapping app that brings your notes and ideas to life. Create, map out, and visualize concepts on an ever-expanding canvas to help you understand and brainstorm better.
• Foliate is a simple and modern e-book viewer that’s designed to get out of your way, so you can focus on what you’re reading. It has a built-in book catalog where you can download countless public domain books for free.
• OpenBoard is a dynamic canvas for interactive whiteboards in classrooms. Go beyond drawing, with the ability to annotate documents and web pages, display multimedia content, and incorporate tools like calculators, maps, and other interactive elements to help you give more engaging lessons.
• Minuet is an app to help teach music knowledge. It features a set of ear training exercises regarding intervals, chords, scales, and more.

Believe it or not, despite the inclusion of all this excellent learning-focused software, Zorin OS 16 Education is entirely free. Yes, that's right, parents, unlike Windows 11 (which sells here for more than $100), this operating system won't cost you anything. You can download it here now and start your child down the path to success with Linux!

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