The Pidgin instant
messenger client and it's open source library, libpurple, is an
established chat client for all modern computing platforms. Pidgin
evolved from GAIM which was originally meant as a replacement for the
standard AOL instant messenger client, but it now supports almost
every chat protocol used on the internet. Pidgin has support for
group chat rooms, private messaging, buddy groups, status, and icons,
and its feature set is extensible with a multitude of plugins.
Pidgin has proven its usability with its large user base including
Windows users of all types to computer science students. It's
popularity is no mistake, the developers are constantly adding new
features to the program to keep it ahead of the competition. Much of
the Pidgin feature set would provide a solid communication system for
users of an electronic classroom.
Private messaging
Buddy Groups
Near universal chat protocol support
Audio/Video support for the XMPP (jabber) protocol
"Nudge" feature on MSN protocol - grab the attention of the user
Inline spell check plugin
Buddy pictures/icons
Buddy groups
Status icons for each buddy (Available, away, idle, offline)
Group chat rooms
User to user file transfer
Tabbed individual chat windows
IRC permissions: channel operator, voice, normal user
Emoticons
Very extensible with plugins
Message logging
Drawing support
Group audio/video conferencing
Screen sharing