These are alternatives that can be used at no cost to the individual.

Google SketchUp is software that you can use to create, modify and share 3D models. It's easier to learn than other 3D modeling programs, which is why so many people are already using it. This is great for math teachers looking for a project for their students.
http://sketchup.google.com/

Open Office is a free alternative to Microsoft Office. This package can be used for word processing, spreadsheets, and slide show presentations. In addition, all materials can be converted so that it is compatable with Microsoft Office.
http://www.openoffice.org/

Oovoo - This free video conferencing tool will allow you to talk for free over the internet with up to six people.
www.oovoo.com

Primo PDF is a free tool that will allow you to convert any document in pdf format.
http://www.primopdf.com/

Google Earth lets you fly anywhere on Earth to view satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings and even explore galaxies in the Sky. You can explore rich geographical content, save your toured places and share with others.
http://earth.google.com/

CamStudio is able to record all screen and audio activity on your computer and create industry-standard AVI video files and using its built-in SWF Producer can turn those AVIs into lean, mean, bandwidth-friendly Streaming Flash videos (SWFs)
Here are just a few ways you can use this software:

• You can use it to create demonstration videos for any software program
• Or how about creating a set of videos answering your most frequently asked questions?
• You can create video tutorials for school or college class
• You can even use it to record new tricks and techniques you discover on your favourite software program, before you forget them

http://camstudio.org/


Audacity is free, open source software for recording and editing sounds. This is best used to create mp3 files that can be uploaded to create podcasts.
http://audacity.sourceforge.net/