Education Department, School of Education and Professional Studies

[also found on the World Wide Web as http://www.easternct.edu/depts/edu/360/reseval.html]

Reviewer: DIANNE HAUSCHILDT

1. Name of Software: Hyperstudio For Windows (Evaluation Copy)
Link to the program web site: www.hyperstudio.com

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? Anyone (teacher, student, business manager) who wants to create an interactive presentation or package.

5. What software category best describes the software? It is mainly a production software, that the creator will create a stack that another user will view and use. It could also be considered an authoring program to some extent for the same reason.

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? Any subject would be enhanced by the software, it would give students ownership, similar to creating reports or bulletin boards except that it gives them to opportunity to make it interactive and to anticipate the users interest. For example they could create a story with choices for the ending, create a science report that allows the teacher to view different parts of the procedure as they wish (click on preparation, then look at end results). It allows for creative story-telling. Some people may want more background on a character and can choose that card, or they can continue with the story.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? For the grade four level I think they would be excited about using it, but there would be a good deal of time devoted to teaching the program first. It would be a challenge to use at this level (with mostly kids who are new to computers), since there are some quirks, like how do I delete something or move a clipart image. 

8. How would you recommend the software package be used? I would see this used as a final project after students have done research on a topic and want to present it in a self-sustaining presentation that others can use at their own leisure. Also for giving students a lesson on a topic that they can work at their own pace, either for extra challenge, or slow learners.
 

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Software Review # 2
Reviewer: DIANNE HAUSCHILDT

1. Name of Software: Picture It! 99
Link to the program web site: www.microsoft.com/pictureit/

2. What hardware is required for its use? PC with P90 or higher, Windows 95/98 or NT 4.0 or later, 16 MB of RAM, 90 MB of available hard-disk space, CD-ROM drive, Super VGA monitor with 1 MB of RAM, mouse or compatible pointing device; OPTIONAL: audio board with headphones or speakers; use with digital cameras & scanners

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed? Microsoft Corporation in 1998

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? Anyone wanting to create personal and professional communications, such as invitations, business cards, flyers, slide shows and other fun stuff. In the school, both students and staff would be able to use it at any age.

5. What software category best describes the software? Productivity Tool Software - graphic editor

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? All subjects could benefit from the presentationaspects of the software for oral and written reports; committees could create posters and invitations to events; art classes can manipulate pictures they take to create murals and other creative projects, use textured backgrounds, make collages; make time management fun with creative calendars for one, three or twelve month calendars. Any subject that deals with picture enhancement, desktop publishing and graphics would benefit from this program. You can remove scratches, change tints, brightness, contrast, colours, crop the picture to a desired shape or size, rotate or flip the picture, add text, then edit and enhance (bend, twist, rotate, treat it like any other object), add other graphics, add special effects (distort, shadow), copy objects from one picture to another, add special edges to the picture (for example in social Studies: give it a burned  and/or aged look if you are doing a project that refers to historical information or about documents that were found in a fire). Students can make creative newsletters for their research project with the pictures they create. It will accept pictures from a file, digital camera, scanner (it will even scan it for you). Poetry and stories in language arts/english can be enhanced with the graphic elements students can create.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? Students can create some pretty creative projects, but if they don't have a colour printer it could lose of its effect if it has to be printed. Time would need to be built in for students to explore the software for the first time they use it and most of them may get distracted by all the features. For some of the extra features the second CD-ROM needs to be available either separately or on the network. 

8. How would you recommend the software package be used? As mentioned in #6, the best use would be when manipulating graphics for any artistic project, or in a photography class where you are studying different looks for your photographs. It can also be used as a desktop publishing editor..
 

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Software Review # 3
Reviewer: DIANNE HAUSCHILDT

1. Name of Software: Simply Accounting, Version 5.0 (Canadian)
Link to the program website: www.accpac.com/products/finance/simply/default.asp

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed? ACCPAC International, A Division of Computer Associates Canada Ltd. in March 1997 (also associated with 4Home Productions)

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? Small businesses, useful for teaching accounting in schools.

5. What software category best describes the software? Productivity software - it was made to keep a companies books and it does it very well.

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? Accounting (Financial Management in Alberta)

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? In a network the software can create problems creating new companies for use in the classroom, it takes a bit of tweaking. For loading on a single machine and saving to the hard drive it is okay.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used? To teach accounting in the high school, that is it's best use. I've noticed that the community uses Simply accounting and it is a good idea to teach the students the same software that they will use in work, especially since a small percentage go on to Post-secondary schools, rather choosing to stay in the community, work and raise families.
 

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Software Review # 4
Reviewer: DIANNE HAUSCHILDT

1. Name of Software: Family Tree Maker Deluxe Edition III, Version 4.0, recently upgraded to 6.0
Link to the program web site: www.familytreemaker.com

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? Genealogists of any type, anyone interested in preserving their family history.

5. What software category best describes the software? Also a productivity software, a database of information

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? The software can be used in a social studies class, or a class that focuses on creating a family history. In social it could be used to document a family connection for settlers of an area. It could also be used to enhance a language arts class, it has a the ability to create books using the information gathered, researching family stories and anecdotes to include in the book, create calendars of family birthdays, family web pages,  or multimedia scrapbooks.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? It is mainly a home use product and is very time consuming. There is a lot of research needed prior to entering it into the database. Although it could be used for probably any age, it is easy to enter information, it would depend on the interest of the person, rather than the age.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used? If this were to be used in school I would use it as a year-long (or semester) project. I would use it to introduce how information is gathered and recorded, using the guides on genealogy that are included and on-line. I would have the students enter their information, then create a to-do list (also available in the program) of information to find and individuals to contact. I would have them create a questionnaire/interview for those individuals, then get the information and enter it. Students would write letters to government departments, genealogy societies, churches (any of the recommended contacts) for more information. Students would bring personal pictures to include in the database, and if the equipment is available, recordings of peoples voices. When sufficient information has been found and entered, students would create reports and trees from the information and to include in their books. Students would create and customize calendars and web pages with their information, and the final product would be the book, that incorporates all their information. At the high school level, I would encourage this as a special project, or possibly as a club since the curriculum in other courses are fairly tight. At the lower grades it would probably be easier to use in the class as a language arts project, with letter writing, editing, interviewing and reading skills all used in the creation.
 

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Software Review # 5
Reviewer: DIANNE HAUSCHILDT

1. Name of Software: Print House, Version 1.01
Link to the program website: www.corel.com/products/graphicsandpublishing/phmagic/CPH3.htm

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? The audience is for any one (or business) who wishes to create their own desktop publishing documents, either personal or professional. You can create cards, invitations, certificates, labels, envelopes, calendars, banners, business cards, letterheads, brochures, signs, menus, flyers, custom stationery, almost anything you want.

5. What software category best describes the software? It is a productivity tool that assists you in creating desktop publishing documents.

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? Most subjects could be enhanced with the software, depending on your goal and use. Art classes could focus on design, colours, use of graphics and fonts to enhance a page. Business classes could use it for correspondence documents. Any course that wishes to enhance a poster, title page or document could use the program. Information processing (computer) classes could use it to enhance student skills for the workplace, promote document creation in the community (eg. create menus for the local restaurant). School clubs and committees could use the program, grads to create their own invitations and programs, Student council to create flyers for events and elections.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? It starts out easy to and with practice and patience you can create some very good documents. I found that if you were using this with younger children, there would be a lot of frustrations with the procedures for changing the information. there are better products for young children, but I am sure that later versions may have made the program easier. this particular version is difficult to add other clipart to, it relies on the ones included in the cD-Rom. since it is very specialized, if money is a concern I would look at a program with more flexibility in sharing it's productions and documents, like Publisher.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used? In #6 I suggested some examples, but I would probably use it as a specialized program for older students. Also teachers could make use of it for decorating their rooms (banners & bulletin boards), also for interesting lessons (an enhanced overhead or handout).
 

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1. Name of Software: Microsoft Office 2000, Premium (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher,  FrontPage, PhotoDraw, Small Business Tools [small business customer manager, business planner, small business financial planner, direct mail manager])

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed? Microsoft Corporation, 1999

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use? Businesses, but useful for anyone: students, teachers, administrators.

5. What software category best describes the software? Every program in the premium edition is made for productivity.

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software? All subjects can utilize the software, depending on the job you want to do and once more programs are used the others are easier and can be integrated together, the look is similar to each program, as well as familiar toolbars.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package? It is large package and I would not use it on an older computer (less than P166) it takes up a lot of hard drive space and if your computer is only at the minimum requirements, it runs very slowly. I would also question if you need all of the programs, unless it is purchased through an educational plan, (like Microsoft Select) it may be an expensive investment, you may want to look at other version (Professional, Small Business, standard or individual programs). Premium is the second highest with only the developer tools missing (Visual basic).

8. How would you recommend the software package be used?

Word - This word processing program can be used in any subject to write reports, and other documents. Students will still need to use proofreading skills, and should not forget their spelling and grammar skills. Students can include graphics and objects from the other programs, and for higher levels that need to do multiple mailing (letters, invitations, newsletters) they can use the merge features.

Excel - This spreadsheet program can be used in any subject that uses data analysis (math, science, social studies) to organize information and to represent it graphically. Classes like accounting, career management courses would benefit from the program to create budgets, journals and other "what-if" scenarios that require a look at financial information.

Access - databases are good for courses where students need to keep a large amount of information, like doing research on several countries or creating a collection of family information. This program is probably a little too advanced for lower grades, and I would probably use a simpler one like Works until at least junior high. For advanced use, I would also use the relational database features to teach programming.

PowerPoint - Use the program for creating presentations for lessons, tests, lectures, and any other presentation that you would like to add visual stimulation to. Students would enjoy have an alternative way to report information rather than the traditional paper. I would be careful when students use this medium for reports because it lends itself better to point-form rather than sentence and paragraph format and there will be a tendency to cut back on detail and the presentation doesn't flow as well. This should not replace word processed documents, but should be given as another alternative at appropriate times.

Outlook - With the Internet a part of today's education, email is important to teach properly, both ethically and economically. Students should learn how to use a program that they could have at home, and if they use office at home, or in work, they may be using Outlook. Most are designed similarly and this package can be used to communicate with teachers, other students, and with other people. Students could send assignments to the teacher, and be notified of deadlines, assignment marks, happenings in the school. It also provides a useful tool for the administration to contact teachers to inform them of important notices, staff meetings and other information. It also provides a bit of privacy when communicating, like discussing a mark but you don't want other students to overhear.

Publisher -  students can create  a variety of documents easily with it and it allows for versatility in presenting information. Those who don't like using the computer (particularly girls) Can do a lot of neat things with the program like title pages for reports, cards, letterheads, programs for grad, as well as invitations. students can create brochures for class assignments and the software provided the layout with helps and guides. They could use pre-defined layouts or create their own. students really like using graphics and the program allows them to use the ones in the package as well as ones they download from the Internet. They can also create a newsletter based on research they did and The program makes connecting the columns easy, as well as numbering and formatting the pages for them. With the variety of options available there is no limit to what the students could create. Teachers could use the program to create newsletters for the class and parents, including student work and upcoming events in the class  and school. The school can put a school "Newspaper" each month that is sent home to parents.

PhotoDraw - this program allows students (and Teachers) to easily manipulate graphics and pictures. When doing a report they can customize the picture they wish to use and include text for information. They can use photographs and crop the image to isolate a part of the picture they wish to use, or include it in another picture. For example, say students are doing a family tree and want to include pictures of their family, they could scan the picture in using this Program (it will work with the scanner), or use a digital camera and then select the picture, if include it in a shape (circle, crown, crest, apple, teardrop, etc.) It would be useful in art classes, changing colors, textures, shapes and assist students in photography classes (communication studies) to demonstrate the power of pictures. A creative idea is to take a picture of each kid in the class (with permission of course) and create a calendar for the year and put their picture on their birthday -- It will also help the teacher remember names.

FrontPage - Teachers and students could create their own web pages quickly and easily. Teachers could post class information and student assignments (with permission) and let parents (now and potential) know what happens in the classroom. (I.E. Promote public education) Students could create assignments on the page (like what I am doing) and when it is sent via the internet it is readable by others, even if they don't have the same program (word vs. WordPerfect, Mac vs. IBM.) It allows the teachers to create tests on the web, and reduce the use of paper, answers to forms are sent to an email account (or displayed on a secure page). Student committees could use it to inform other students of what is happening around the school (grad, student council, sports) and share their work with their parents.

Small Business Tools - I did not have access to these tools, but I found information on the Microsoft site regarding these tools. There are four different ones and since there use is specific to businesses I would recommend that they are used mainly at the high school level in the business courses. since most of them use the other programs previously mentioned in some of their functions it could be taught together as a "Work environment" training project. Courses like management & marketing, Enterprise and innovation, and accounting could use these programs.

• Small Business Customer Manager

        Helps small businesses unify their accounting data and personal productivity software to achieve more effective customer tracking, analysis, and communication. Includes database wizard, filters, enhanced data fields, personalized settings, activity tracker, and more.
• Business Planner

        Provides small businesses with a "business consultant in-a-box" that gives them a set of tools, information, and templates to help them grow and run their business. Combines content from the latest editions of five leading business reference books with over 100 productivity templates/worksheets, almost 700 Web links, and directory information.
• Small Business Financial Planner

        Works with Excel to help small business owners make better use of their business data. Easily create dynamic/customizable financial reports/charts, perform valuable "what-if" analyses, and "mine" accounting information to make better business decisions.
• Direct Mail Manager

        Utilizes Microsoft wizard technology and the Web to help small businesses easily develop targeted and cost-effective direct mailings using Word or Publisher. Includes address verification wizard, direct mail primer, and links to address list and mail service vendors.

Suites Shoot-Out site (WordPerfect vs. Office):
http://home.cnet.com/category/topic/0,10000,0-3670-7-286968,00.html

Office 2000 Review:
http://home.cnet.com/category/topic/0,10000,0-3670-7-278204,00.html

Microsoft Office Home Page:
                  http://www.microsoft.com/office/default2.htm

Shop Microsoft: Office 2000 premium overview:
 http://shop.microsoft.com/store/products/software_overview.asp?intGrp=1&intCat=4&intSubCat=172&intSiteId=573
 
 
 

Software Review # 1

Reviewer: Alyssa Fresa

1. Name of Software
        Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0

2. What hardware is required for its use?
        Windows System Requirements
                i486 or Pentium® processor-based personal computer
                Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98, or
                Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 3 or later
                8 MB of RAM on Windows 95 and
                Windows 98 (16 MB recommended)
                16 MB of RAM on Windows NT (24 MB recommended)

        Macintosh System Requirements
                Apple Power Macintosh computer
                Apple System Software version 7.1.2 or later
                4.5 MB of available RAM (6.5 MB recommended)
                8 MB of available hard-disk space
                50 MB of additional hard-disk space for Asian fonts (optional)

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
        Adobe, copyright 1999

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
        Acrobat Reader 4.0 is an essential tool for anyone who needs to view,   navigate, browse, and print Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files.

5. What software category best describes the software?
        Productivity tools

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
        ·Improved integration with Web browsers
        · Faster and more reliable printing to both PCL and Adobe
        · PostScript(R) printers
        · Better support for longer and more complex documents
        · Support for the latest version of the Acrobat file format - Adobe PDF 1.3
        · Support for all versions of PostScript, including the new PostScript 3
        · Better color handling, including support for ICC profiles
        · Compatible with previous versions of Acrobat Reader
        · Plus, you can download Asian font packs that enable you to view PDF     files that contain Chinese, Japanese, and Korean fonts on non-native    systems using Acrobat Reader 4.0.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
        Personally, I have not had any trouble using the 3.0 version to date.  In       fact, it has been very useful for me when wanting to print certain      documents from websites.  According to the Adobe website this   downloadable version is also virus free: "All pre-release and release   versions of Acrobat 4.0 Reader are free of known viruses. Adobe uses a  variety of anti-virus software in addition to McAfee VirusScan to thoroughly    screen all software before it is publicly released. Ar40.exe was released in    February 1999. Before uploading it, Adobe used VirusScan 4.x with virus         definitions 4.0.4014 dated February 18, 1999 to verify Ar40.exe was clear of    viruses. Before uploading Ar40eng.exe, released in April 1999, Adobe used       VirusScan 4.x with virus definitions 4.0.4019 to verify Ar40eng.exe was         clear of viruses."

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
        Adobe Acrobat Reader is sort of a background software, in that there is         very little effort on the part of the user in the actual use of the program.    When you want to download a website and Acrobat Reader is needed, it    will automatically open itself up and format the site you are working with.     Therefore, I would recommend this for anyone downloading information from       the Internet since it is so easy to use.

*NOTE: All information concerning Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 was found at
    http://www.adobe.com/prodindex/acrobat/readstep.html#reader
 
 

Software Review # 2

Reviewer: Alyssa Fresa

1. Name of Software
        Microsoft Word 97
2. What hardware is required for its use?
        To Use Microsoft Word 97, You Need:
                · Personal or multimedia computer with a 486 or higher processor
                · Microsoft Windows® 95 operating system or Microsoft Windows             NT® Workstation 3.51 Service Pack 5 or later (will not run on                   earlier versions)
                · 8 MB of memory for use on Windows 95; 16 MB for use on                  Windows NT Workstation
                · 8 MB of additional memory required to run WordMail
                · 20-60 MB of available hard-disk space required; 46 MB required                  for typical installation, depending on configuration (use the Office            Upgrade Wizard during setup to maximize free disk space)
                · CD-ROM drive (coupon enclosed for 3.5'' high-density disks; CD-                 ROM contains additional components such as Microsoft Internet                   Explorer, extra clip art, video files, and sounds not available on              3.5'' disks)
                · VGA or higher-resolution video adapter (Super VGA, 256-color            recommended)
                · Microsoft Mouse, Microsoft IntelliMouse®, or compatible pointing                device
        Additional Items or Services Required to Use Certain Features
                · 9600 or higher-baud modem (14,400 baud recommended)
                · Multimedia computer required to access sound and other                  multimedia effects
                · Microsoft Exchange client or Microsoft Outlook® required to run                 WordMail Some Internet functionality may require Internet access                and payment of a separate fee to a service provider.

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
        Microsoft, 1997

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
        Anyone who would be interested in the most up-to-date word processor, as        well as other forms and documents.

5. What software category best describes the software?
        Word Processor

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
        Any form that is to be displayed in a professional manner, for example,         resumes brochures, calendars, etc.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
        The "problem" with Microsoft, in general, is that they are constantly   updating their software packages.  There are usually improvements       between the upgrades but sometimes they are barely noticeable.  I would         recommend thoroughly checking your current word processor against       Microsoft Word 97 before changing software because chances are a new    and improved one will be out in another year.

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
        This software can be used in so many different ways.  Personally, I use it      to write all of my papers, resumes, schedules and so many other things.
 

Software Review # 3

Reviewer: Alyssa Fresa

1. Name of Software
        Microsoft PowerPoint 97

2. What hardware is required for its use?
        To Use Microsoft PowerPoint 97, You Need:
                · Personal or multimedia computer with a 486 or higher processor
                · Microsoft Windows® 95 operating system or Microsoft Windows
                  NT® Workstation 3.51 Service Pack 5 or later (will not run on                   earlier versions)
                · 8 MB of memory for use on Windows 95; 16 MB for use on                  Windows NT Workstation
                · 26-58 MB of available hard-disk space required; 43 MB required                  for typical installation, depending on configuration (use the Office            Upgrade Wizard during setup to maximize free disk space)
                · CD-ROM drive (coupon enclosed for 3.5'' high-density disks; CD-
                · ROM contains additional items such as Microsoft Internet                Explorer, extra clip art, videos, photos, and sounds not available              on 3.5'' disks)
                · VGA or higher-resolution video adapter (Super VGA, 256-color            recommended)
                · Microsoft Mouse, Microsoft IntelliMouse®, or compatible pointing                device
        Additional Items or Services Required to Use Certain Features:
                · 9600 or higher-baud modem (14,400 baud recommended)
                · Multimedia computer required to access sound and other                  multimedia effects
                · Microphone required to record presenter's voice
                · Microsoft Outlook® required to schedule meetings and export             tasks from Meeting Minder
                · TCP/IP running on local area network or the Internet required for               Presentation Conferencing
                · Some Internet functionality may require Internet access and             payment of a separate fee to a service provider

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
        Microsoft, 1997

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
        Teachers would us this product more than students in the presentation of        material.  However, this product is easy to learn and the students could        use this product in their own oral presentation reports.

5. What software category best describes the software?
        Instructional/ presentation

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
        Any subject that is distributed in a lecture form can be enhanced using         Microsoft PowerPoint because you can include different types of material in     an well-organized manner.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
        Writing notes on this software would not be efficient if you do not have a      computer in the classroom that can display on a board to the class; it  would be easier to do the lecture through other software products.

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
        In all classroom settings that have the necessary technology to display the     finished product to the class and for presentations by students.
 

*NOTE: Information concerning Microsoft PowerPoint 97 was found at
    http://www.microsoft.com/office/archive/default.htm#Microsoft_Word
 
 

Software Review # 4

Reviewer: Alyssa Fresa

1. Name of Software
        Paint

2. What hardware is required for its use?
        This product is provided in Microsoft packages

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
        Microsoft, the year is the same as the software package

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
        Amateur artists and people wanting to design simple graphics.

5. What software category best describes the software?
        Graphics

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
        Any form needing a pictorial representation

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
        I would not readily recommend this software if other software were      available, like CorelDraw.  CorelDraw needs to be purchased separately but      has so many more capabilities and is easy to learn.  Now in Microsoft   Word 97, there is a draw feature that works better than most Paint      versions; therefore I would even recommend that over Paint.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used?
        For drawings if nothing else was available.
 
 

Software Review # 5

Reviewer: Alyssa Fresa

1. Name of Software
        Minitab 12

2. What hardware is required for its use?
        MINITAB Release 12 for Windows System Requirements
                · Windows 95, Windows NT 3.51, or Windows NT 4.0
                · 16 MB RAM
                · CD-ROM drive or 3.5" floppy disk drive
                · Personal computer with a 486 or higher processor
                · 25 MB hard disk space for full installation
                · VGA or SVGA monitor
                · Mouse required for some capabilities
                · Math coprocessor strongly recommended

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
        Minitab Inc., I couldn't find the year but has to be recent.

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
        Mainly anyone requiring the use of statistical Analysis but according to the    company these are the features of the product:
                General
                · Easy to use manuals and help
                · Documentation helps you analyze data and interpret results
                · 32-bit processing for faster speed
                · Session Window: editable, paste output into word processor with                 formatting intact; save output in RTF
                · Variable names can be up to 31 characters
                · Powerful macro programming language
                · Context-sensitive pop-up menus
                Data and File Management
                · Import/Export: Excel, Lotus 1-2-3, Quattro Pro, dBase, and text                 files Preview worksheet before opening
                · Calculator
                · DDE (Dynamic Data Exchange)
                · Font control in Data window
                · Multiple worksheets
                · Insert and move columns
                · Data manipulation
                · Spreadsheet-like Data window
                · New, easy way to subset
                · Store descriptive information with a project
                · Save graphs, worksheets and session window output in one file
                · Matrix functions including transpose, inverse, eigenvalues,             eigenvectors
                · ODBC (Open DataBase Connectivity) to query and retrieve from            databases
                · Analyze numeric, text and date/time data
                · Double precision worksheets
                Basic Statistics
                · Descriptive Statistics, with both numerical and graphical                               summaries
               · Confidence intervals, one- and two-sample t-tests, paired t-tests
                · Correlation and covariance matrices
                · Analysis of means
                · Estimate and tests for one and two sample proportions
                · Regression Analysis
                · Simple and multiple linear regression
                · Model selection using stepwise or best subsets regression
               · Residual plots
                · Identification of unusual observations, model diagnostics,
                  prediction/confidence intervals for new observations
                · Logistic regression: binary, ordinal, or normal; diagnostic plots
                · Polynomial regression, with or without log transforms
                · Analysis of Variance
                · General linear model for balanced, unbalanced and nested                designs, fixed and random effects
                · Unbalanced nested designs
                · Multiple factor ANOVA for balanced models, fixed and random             effects
                · Multiple comparisons
                · Multivariate analysis of variance
                · Analyze fully nested designs
                · Sequential sum of squares, identify unusual observations, model                 diagnostics
                · Residual, main effects, and interaction plots
                · Tests of homogeneity of variances
                · Tables
                · Simple and multiple Correspondence analysis
                · Contingency tables
                · Goodness-of-fit test
                · Multivariate Analysis
                · Principal components, Discriminant, Cluster and Factor analysis
                · Statistical Process Control
                · Control charts: Xbar, R, S, Xbar-R, Xbar-S, I, MR, I-MR, MA,            EWMA, CUSUM, zone, short run, p, np, c, u
                · Variable charts for non-normal data
                · Customizable tests for special causes
                · Capability analysis for normal, non-normal and attribute data
                · Process capability six-pack: provides a visual display of process               capability, and checks normality of data
                · Run and Pareto Charts; Fishbone
                · Historical/Shift-In-Process Charts
                · Box-Cox transformations
                · Gage R&R: ANOVA and Xbar methods, gage linearity, accuracy              and run chart
                · Multi-Variate charts up to 4 factors
                · Reliability/Survival Analysis
                · Probability Survival and Hazard plots
                · Exact Failure right, left and interval censored data
                · Weibull, exponential, lognormal, normal and logistic distributions
                · Nonparametric estimates of distribution
                · Accelerated life testing
                · Regression with life data
                · Probit analysis
                · Nonparametrics
                        · Sign, Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney tests and confidence                       intervals
                        · Friedman test for two-way layout
                        · Runs, Kruskal-Wallis and Moods median tests
                        · Designed Experiments
                        · Factorial designs: two-level and full fractional factorial                      designs; 3-15 factors
                · General Factorial Designs
                        · Factorial Designs with Botched Runs Plackett-Burman                     screening; 3-47 factors
                        · Response surface designs: central composite, Box-                       Behnken Multiple response optimization
                        · Response surface contour and wire frame Mixture                         designs: simplex centroid and simplex lattice designs, fit                      Scheffe mixture models up to a full cubic
                · Residual, main effect and interaction plots
                · High resolution cube and effects plots
                · Analysis of Taguchi inner-outer array
                · Augment and modify existing designs
                · Graphics
                        · Presentation-style
                        · Built-in graphs in analysis commands
                        · Scatter, box and time series plots, histograms, charts,                         3D graphs
                        · Numerous special-purpose graphs
                        · Easy editing and customization of all attributes: color,                        fonts, data display and annotation
                        · OLE for pasting into other packages
                        · Graph brushing: displays values of user selected points                         on plot, all relevant graphs and Data window, so to                     subset and analyze
                        · Save graphs as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP
                · Time Series
                        · Auto-, partial auto- and cross correlation
                        · Univariate Box-Jenkins ARIMA analysis; seasonal and                     nonseasonal with forecasts
                        · Trend analysis: linear, quadratic, exponential or S-curve
                        · Decomposition: multiplicative or additive
                        · Winter's additive and multiplicative for seasonal                       smoothing; single or double exponential smoothing
                        · Moving average
                · Simulation and Distributions
                · Random number generator: exponential, binomial, beta, Poisson,                  normal, Weibull and logarithmic
                · Density, distribution, and inverse cumulative distribution functions
                · Symmetry plot
                · Random sampling

5. What software category best describes the software?
        Statistical packages

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
        Whenever statistical analysis is needed but a must have for any statistics      course from both a teaching and learning point of view.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
        I am very pleased with the updates that Minitab Inc. has made to Minitab        over the past 6 years.  The first version of Minitab I used was off a UCONN     mainframe and it was horrible, easy to use, but the graphics were terrible.     With the updated version, Minitab can be used on a PC and the graphics  have tremendously improved with the same ease.
 

8. How would you recommend the software package be used?
To enhance a report where statistics is a primary factor.  Students 6th grade or above can probably handle Minitab with little to no trouble.

*NOTE: Information concerning Minitab was found at
http://www.minitab.com/products/minitab/rel12/INDEX.HTM
 

1. Name of Software
 Microsoft Access 97

2. What hardware is required for its use?

? Personal or multimedia computer with a 486 or higher processor
? Microsoft Windows® 95 operating system or Microsoft Windows NT® Workstation 3.51 Service Pack 5 or later (will not run on earlier versions)
? 12 MB of memory for use on Windows 95; 16 MB of memory for use on Windows NT Workstation
? 28-60 MB of available hard-disk space required; 40 MB required for typical installation, depending on configuration (use the Office Upgrade
      Wizard during setup to maximize free disk space)
? CD-ROM drive (coupon enclosed for 3.5'' high-density disks; CD-ROM contains Microsoft Internet Explorer, additional drivers, .avi files, and sounds not available on 3.5'' disks)
? VGA or higher-resolution video adapter (Super VGA, 256-color recommended)
? Microsoft Mouse, Microsoft IntelliMouse®, or compatible pointing device

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
 Microsoft, 1997

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
This program is more for corporate organization but it could be useful for teachers and/or administrators in the school in keeping parents and students information organized.

5. What software category best describes the software?
 Database software package

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
 Record keeping and perhaps a secondary level business class as well.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
 I don’t know the program in enough detail to answer this.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used?
Manage All Your Data—Make Better Decisions
Microsoft Access 97 for the Windows® 95 and Windows NT® operating systems provides relational database power to give you the information you
need to make better decisions. It integrates data from spreadsheets and other databases and is the easy way to find answers, share information over
intranets and the Internet, and build faster business solutions: corporate Web pages, sales figures and invoices, customer names and addresses. Today, data is everywhere—on your PC, on local networks, and on the Internet. But how do you make sense of it all? The Microsoft Access 97 relational database management system structures your data so you can find answers easily, share timely information, and build faster solutions that help you make better business decisions.

Find Answers Easily
Microsoft Access 97 makes it easy to turn data into answers and includes tools that help even first-time users get up and running quickly. The Database Wizard automatically builds any one of more than 20 custom databases in minutes to help you get started fast. And the Table Analyzer Wizard intelligently finds the underlying structure in a flat-file list and transforms it into related tables so you can immediately harness the power of a relational database—even if you don't understand relational database systems.

Share Timely Information
Microsoft Access 97 makes it easy to share up-to-date information with others, regardless of where they are. The Publish To The Web Wizard lets you share dynamic or static database information across the Internet or your company's intranet—without writing any code. That means you can place your data on a Web site and let people search it from across your workgroup or the world. And the Import/Export Wizard walks you step-by-step through the process of converting data to and from a variety of popular data formats.

Build Faster Solutions
Microsoft Access 97 offers greatly enhanced 32-bit performance, including smaller forms, more efficient compilation, and better data manipulation technology. Other improvements substantially reduce the technical know-how you need to build fast, flexible business solutions. The Performance Analyzer Wizard automatically recommends the best way to create a well-organized, more responsive database. And the intuitive, integrated development environment (IDE) in Microsoft Visual Basic® for Applications with Microsoft ActiveX® support makes it easy to develop a powerful database and integrate it with other Microsoft Office programs to create a comprehensive business solution.

Whether you are a first time user or a database expert, Microsoft Access 97 is the desktop application you need to manage all your data.
 

*NOTE: All information concerning Microsoft Access 97 was found at
http://www.microsoft.com/office/archive/acc97brch/default.htm
 

1. Name of Software
Microsoft Excel 97

2. What hardware is required for its use?
? Personal or multimedia computer with a 486 or higher processor
? Microsoft Windows® 95 operating system or Microsoft Windows NT® Workstation 3.51 Service Pack 5 or later (will not run on earlier versions)
? 8 MB of memory for use on Windows 95; 16 MB for use on Windows NT Workstation
? 22—64 MB of available hard-disk space required; 36 MB required for typical installation, depending on configuration (use the Office Upgrade
Wizard during setup to maximize free disk space)
? CD-ROM drive (coupon enclosed for 3.5" high-density disks; CD-ROM contains additional components such as Microsoft Internet Explorer,
Microsoft Camcorder, clip art, and templates not available on 3.5" disks)
? VGA or higher-resolution video adapter (Super VGA, 256-color recommended)
? Microsoft Mouse, Microsoft IntelliMouse®, or compatible pointing device (Microsoft IntelliMouse required for extended navigational capabilities)

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
 Microsoft, 1997

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
Students in business courses, statistical courses and people needing an information organizational tool.

5. What software category best describes the software?
 Database software

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
I have personally used this program in an accounting course.  I also use the program as an organizational tool, laying out my dates and responsibilities, which can help students with tome management skills

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
Not many, I still don’t know how to use all of it’s functions so I guess I would recommend a full explanation of the program before assigning projects with this program.
 

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
Turn Your Numbers Into Answers
Microsoft Excel 97, for the Windows® 95 and Windows NT® Workstation operating systems, breaks down the barriers of traditional spreadsheets, making it easier than ever to analyze, report, and share your data. Whether you're an expert or a novice, Microsoft Excel 97 provides answers you can count on.
The world's most comprehensive spreadsheet program is also the most intuitive. Microsoft Excel 97 breaks down the barriers between you and your spreadsheet. It's more discoverable and more usable, making it easier to turn your numbers into answers.

Effortless Analysis Makes Your Numbers Make Sense
Spend less time building your spreadsheet and more time seeing what your numbers mean. Formula creation has never been easier. New natural language formulas let you intuitively build equations using your own terminology instead of cell coordinates. Formula AutoCorrect intelligently fixes common equation errors on the fly, so you can get to your answers fast.

Richer Reporting for Professional Results
New charting and spreadsheet formatting options give you the power to present data in the most meaningful ways. The enhanced ChartWizard consolidates chart-building and formatting into one place, so creating charts is easier than ever. And your data will look great with new chart types
such as pie-of-pie and bubble charts. Create eye-catching spreadsheets with new Custom Cells. Now you can rotate and indent text, and merge cells
without tricky formatting.

Powerful Connectivity Makes Sharing Data Easier Than Ever
Team members can now collaborate on budgets or lists by simultaneously adding information to a single shared work-book. And you can easily keep track of when changes were made and by whom. Take full advantage of a connected environment. Help others in your organization navigate to related documents by building hyperlinks to other Microsoft Office documents on a network server or the World Wide Web. Or convert your files to HTML format for the Internet with the click of a button—no coding necessary!

Integration and Consistency with the Applications You Use Most
Microsoft Excel 97 and all of the Microsoft Office 97 family members work together easily to reduce training and support costs. And the new interactive Office Assistant offers quick answers, tips, and suggestions while you work to make learning or upgrading simple for novices and experts alike. It's never been easier to take advantage of the full power of your spreadsheet. Microsoft Excel 97 helps you turn numbers into answers you can count on.
 

*NOTE: All information concerning Microsoft Excel 97 was found at
 http://www.microsoft.com/office/archive/xl97brch/default.htm

1. Name of Software
Microsoft Publisher 97

2. What hardware is required for its use?
? Personal computer with a 386DX or higher processor (486DX or higher recommended) running Microsoft Windows® 95 operating system or Windows NT® Workstation version 3.51 or later operating system
? 6 MB of memory (RAM); 8 MB recommended on Windows 95; 12 MB recommended on Windows NT Workstation
? Hard-disk space:
—Typical installation: 116 MB
—Minimum installation: 9.5 MB
? CD-ROM drive
? VGA or higher-resolution monitor
? Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device

Note: the CD includes 140 MB of clip art in addition to the typical installation.

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
 Microsoft, 1997

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
In an educational setting, mostly for the students use in developing class presentations.

5. What software category best describes the software?
 Presentation Aid

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
Art and English off the top of my head.  You can do some interesting topics and with program students can create professional looking projects with little difficulty.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
It becomes difficult to grade projects if they are done by the computer because how do you judge effort, quality etc. in the grade if all the projects look the same.  Granted there is still the content area but the individually creativity aspect has been reduced some.

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
Three million people use Microsoft Publisher to create the materials they need for their businesses, volunteer interests, and personal use. According to user surveys, 97 percent are satisfied with Publisher—so satisfied they regularly recommend this best-selling, do-it-yourself publishing program for Microsoft Windows® to their friends and associates. And now Publisher 97 continues the winning tradition with even more features, including easy online publishing! You can create World Wide Web sites just as easily as you can create a printed document.
Publisher is exceptionally easy to use, so you can get creative right away—without learning how to use software first! The program offers so much design help, you're sure to create the kind of publications that get results. PageWizard design assistants guide you step-by-step to help you create all kinds of projects—brochures, newsletters, flyers, Web sites, postcards, business cards, invitations, greeting cards, labels, signs and banners, stationery and envelopes, calendars, business forms, specialty items, and much more.
And Publisher includes an expanded and enhanced collection of clip art, fonts, borders, and design elements and templates—enough to make your creative possibilities virtually unlimited. More content is available online too, with the Clip Gallery Live. (Internet or other online access may require payment of a separate fee to a service provider.) All your documents will be distinctive because you have so many easy, great-looking options. Use WordArt special text effects, rotate elements, add gradient fills, start articles with Fancy First Letters, and even recolor clip art in any of 16 million colors.
Plus, if you already know Microsoft Word or another Microsoft Office program, you're on your way to knowing Publisher. Publisher is consistent, integrates well, and uses the same menu bars, rulers, and shortcuts where appropriate.
Do-it-yourself publishing has never been easier. And Microsoft Publisher 97 is the best way to get the results you want—in print and online.

*NOTE: All information concerning Microsoft Publisher 97 was found at
 http://www.microsoft.com/office/archive/pub97brch/default.htm
 

1. Name of Software
RealPlayer G2

2. What hardware is required for its use?
      No additional equipment required – works immediately with any PC sound
      card and speakers

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
RealNetworks, Inc., 1995-1999

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
Anyone who needs a program to download pictures, especially with sound.  We use it in our class.

5. What software category best describes the software?
 Utilities

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
 Many subjects could benefit from this product, perhaps video clips of science
examples?

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
Personally, I do not like this product compared to Windows Multi Media. When using RealPlayer G2, it is difficult to rewind and fast-forward the video clip without long delays or errors.  I need to note however, that my computer runs Window NT and that my effect the way the program runs.

8.  How would you recommend the software package be used?
     AOL Instant Messenger(SM) Integration
     Chat instantly with your friends while playing online video or audio

    RealGuide Explorer Bar for IE5
    Instantly access thousands of live radio and television stations directly
     from Internet Explorer 5.0

     RealPlayer Search
     Find the broadest range of RealAudio and RealVideo content on the Net.

    Access to great content
     Get direct access to the latest entertainment, news, and sports with
    hundreds of presets and channels built into RealPlayer G2.

     Multimedia presentations
     Enjoy high-impact presentations with RealVideo, RealAudio, RealText,
     Flash with Real G2, animation and more!
 

AutoUpdate
     Keep your RealPlayer up-to-date with the latest and greatest technology.

     Best audio and video quality
    New RealAudio and RealVideo offer enriched sound quality and smoother
     video playback.

*NOTE: All information concerning RealPlayer G2 was found at
 http://www.real.com/products/player/demos/
 

1. Name of Software
CorelDRAW 9

2. What hardware is required for its use?
? Windows® 95, Windows 98 or Windows NT® 4.0
? 32 MB RAM (64 MB recommended)
? Pentium® 133
? 2X CD-ROM drive
? Mouse or tablet
? SVGA monitor
? Minimum 100 MB hard disk space

3. Who publishes the software and what year was it developed?
 Corel, April 1999

4. Who would be the intended audience for its use?
 Teachers or students

5. What software category best describes the software?
 Graphics

6. What subject matter might be enhanced by using this software?
Anytime you use a picture in your work and need to “clean it up” or create a picture.

7. What reservations would you have about using this software package?
In general, this product is easy to use.  I use it to “clean up” pictures after scanning.  However, some of the functions are difficult to use without reading on how to use them but it is a better graphic software than Paint.

8. How would you recommend the software package be used?
? Color palettes – includes the Pantone® Matching System Uncoated and Coated color palettes.
? Support for multiple page sizes and orientation – lets you enjoy flexible document creation.
? Eye Dropper tool – pick up color from one object and copy it to another
Interactive Mesh Fill tool – take advantage of exceptional control and creativity when filling objects and text.
? Image sprayer – “spray” a series of objects along a path
? Miniature Preview dialog box – lets you see the effects of any setting changes immediately.
? Preflight warnings – get important feedback and information about your print jobs.
? Microsoft® Visual Basic® for Applications – create CorelDRAW-based solutions with this industry-standard scripting language.
? Robust PDF support – lets you exchange and view electronic documents easily and reliably, independent of the environment in which they were created.
? Job ticketing – annotate files with production details, such as setup or binding instructions, for your printing company.
? Support for QuickTime™ 3.0 VR – create, open, edit and save single- or multiple-node QuickTime VR panoramas and objects.
 

*NOTE: All information concerning CorelDRAW 9 was found at
 http://www.corel.com/draw9/index.htm
 

evaluator   RUTH W. ROSE
software   SIM TOWN
hardware   WINDOWS, WINDOWS 95
publisher   MAXIS, C INC., C 1995
audience   AGES 6 AND UP.
category   EDUCATIONAL, PLAYFUL.
subject use   CONCEPTS OF SPATIAL APPEARANCE, CONSTRUCTION, MATH INCLUDING AREA AND VOLUME.PLAY IN GENERAL, I.E. FOR A CHILD, C EXPERTS SAYS THAT PLAY IS THE CHILD’S WORK.
ease of use   VERY EASY TO USE, KIDS LOVE IT. THEY CAN DESIGN THEIR OWN CREATIONS
recommendation   FOR EXPLORATION TIME DURING A FREE PLAY TIME AT SCHOOL OR AT HOME.

evaluator   RUTH W. ROSE
software   MICROSOFT WORD - WORD PROCESSOR
hardware   MICROSOFT WINDOWS, MICROSOFT WINDOWS 95
publisher   MICROSOFT CORP. 1993
audience   ANYONE WHO WANTS TO WRITE, PRESCHOOL THROUGH ADULT
category   UTILIZED AS WORD PROCESSOR
subject use   ANY WRITTEN MATTER, EVERY SUBJECT AREA
ease of use   FAIRLY EASY TO USE, INTRODUCING COLOR TO A DOCUMENT IS NOT ALWAYS EASY.
recommendation   EVERYDAY BY EVERYONE

evaluator   RUTH W. ROSE
software   THE OREGON TRAIL
hardware   MICROSOFT WINDOWS 386 OR HIGHER, MICROSOFT WINDOWS 95 486 OR HIGHER, OR MACINTOSH COMPUTER LC
OR GREATER
publisher   MECC 1996
audience   AGES 10 AND UP -RECOMMENDED BY MANUFACTURER.  I BELIEVE THAT IT CAN SUCCESSFULLY BE USED BY AGES 8 AND UP.
category   ACTIVE LEARNING
subject use   KNOWLEDGE OF WESTWARD EXPANSION ACROSS U.S. HISTORY, MATHEMATICS AND PROBLEM SOLVING.
ease of use   VERY EASY TO USE, NO RESERVATIONS
recommendation   AS A RESOURCE TO GO ALONG WITH SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM, TO REINFORCE STUDY OF WESTWARD EXPANSION.

evaluator ALEXEY TIMOSHKIN
software MACINTOSH BASICS
hardware APPLE MACINTOSH
publisher APPLE COMPUTER, 1990-1991
audience KIDS
category TUTORIAL
subject use HOW TO USE MACINTOSH COMPUTER
ease of use EASY TO USE
recommendation TUTORIAL FOR KIDS
 

evaluator ALEXEY TIMOSHKIN
software MICROSOFT WORD V.5.1
hardware APPLE MACINTOSH / OR PC
publisher MICROSOFT 1992
audience HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT
category PRODU
CTIVITY TOOLS
subject use WRITING COURSES
ease of use EASY TO YSE
recommendation AS WORD PROCESSING TOOL

evaluator ALEXEY TIMOSHKIN
software SIMLIFE
hardware APPLE MACINTOSH
publisher MAXIS, 1992
audience KIDS
category GAMES AND SIMULATIONS
subject use EARTH SCIENCE
ease of use NOT EASY TO USE
recommendation EARTH SIMULATION

evaluator ALEXEY TIMOSHKIN
software THINKIN' THINGS
hardware APPLE MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK CORPORATION, 1993
audience KIDS
category GAMES AND SIMULATIONS
subject use ABSTRACT THINKING
ease of use EXTREMELY EASY
recommendation

evaluator AYESHA HAJI ABDULLAH
software CRICKET GRAPH
hardware PC, MAC
publisher JIM RAFFERTY
audience MAINLY ANYONE OVER 10 YEARS
category GAMES
subject use HELPS SHARPEN CALCULATION SKILLS AS WELL ENHANCES
DISPLAY AND ORGANIZATION SKILLS
ease of use VERY EASY
recommendation BASICALLY USED FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND GIVES A GOOD
IDEA OF THE GAME BEFORE YOU ACTUALLY PLAY IT. ALSO HELPS SHARPENING
MATH SKILLS IN AN ENTERTAINING WAY.

evaluator AYESHA HAJI ABDULLAH
software MS WORD 5.1A
hardware PERSONAL COMPUTER
publisher MICROSOFT CORPORATION, NOVEMBER 4 1992
audience 7 YEARS AND ABOVE
category TUTORIAL, PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS, DRILL AND DPRACTICE
subject use BASICALLY USED TO DO ASSIGNMENTS AND REPORTS
ease of use VERY EASY AND REQUIRES NO RESERVATIONS
recommendation DOES NOT NEED TO MUCH GUIDANCE, CAN BE USED BY
STUDENTS ON THEIR OWN

evaluator AYESHA HAJI ABDULLAH
software MATH ACE
hardware PC
publisher MAGIC QUE
ST, PALO ALTO, CA 1993
audience 7- 14 YEARS
category ENTERTAINMENT, EDUCAT
IONAL AND TUTORIAL
subject use BASICALLY MATH
ease of use EASY
recommendation THIS SOFTWARE IS A WAY TO ENHANCE STUDENT SKILLS,
EXPLORE AROUND WITHOUT LOOSING INTEREST.

evaluator AYESHA HAJI ABDULLAH
software MS POWER POINT 4.0
hardware PC
publisher MS CORPORATION, 1987
audience SECONDARY LEVEL CLASSES AND UP. MAINLY USED AT
UNDERGRAD. AND GRAD LEVELS
category PRODUCTIVITY TOOL, ENTERTAINMENT, TUTORIAL
subject use PRESENTATIONS, REPORTS
ease of use VERY EASY
recommendation HELPS TO GIVE CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF PRESENTATIONS
USING GRAPHICS AND CLIP ARTS.

evaluator AYESHA HAJI ABDULLAH
software NETSCAPE NAVIGATOR 2.01
hardware PC
publisher COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION, 1995
audience ANYONE ABOVE 12 YEARS
category ENTERTAINMENT, DRILL AND PRACTICE AND EDUCATION
subject use CAN EASILY GET ACCESS TO A LOT OF INFORMATION ON VARIOUS
SUBJECT MATTERS.
ease of use VERY EASY
recommendation TEENAGERS SHOULD BE CAREFUL AND PEOPLE UNDER 18
SHOULD BE GUIDED BUT OVERALL IT IS THE BEST SOURCE OF INFORMATION
FOR ALMOST ANYTHING.

evaluator KRISTEN FRANKENBERGER
software MILLIE'S MATH HOUSE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK 1992
audience GRADESCHOOLERS
category TUTOR
subject use MATH
ease of use EASY/NONE
recommendation AS A MATH LESSON

evaluator KRISTEN FRANKENBERGER
software MACGLOBE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher BORDERBUND, 1992
audience GRADESCHOOLERS 5'
category TUTOR
subject use GEOGRAPHY
ease of use EASY/NONE
recommendation AS A SUPPLEMENT TO GEOGRAPHY LESSON

evaluator KRISTEN FRANKENBERGER
software SIMLIFE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher MAXIS /KEN KARAKOTSIOS 1992
audience GRADESCHOOLERS
category SIMULATION/ GAME
subject use SCIENCE/GEOGRAPHY
ease of use COMPLICATED
recommendation AS A GAME

evaluator KRISTEN FRANKENBERGER
software BAILEY'S BOOKHOUSE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK 1993
audience GRADESCHOOLERS
category TUTOR
subject use READING/SPELLING
ease of use VERY EASY
recommendation AS A READING EXCERCISE

evaluator ALYCIA SANTILLI
software STORYTELLER-WHALE WATCH
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher D.C. HEATH AND CO., 1991
audience GRADES 1-3
category TUTORIAL AND PRODUCTIVITY TOOL
subject use A UNIT ON SEA MAMMALS, WHALES IN PARTICULAR AND POS
SIBLY A BEGINNI

evaluator ALYCIA SANTILLI
software BAILEY'S BOOKHOUSE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK, 1993
audience STUDENTS IN GRADES 1-3
category TUTORIAL AND PRODUCTIVITY TOOL
subject use CREATIVE WRITING
ease of use IT WAS EASY TO USE. STUDENTS CAN JUST CLICK ON OPTIONS TO
DO A VARIETY OF THINGS.
recommendation TO ENHANCE BEGINNER READING AND CREATIVE WRITING
SKILLS.

evaluator ALYCIA SANTILLI
software KID PIX
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher CRAIG HI
CHMAN AND BRODERBUND SOFTWARE, INC, 1988
audience ALL AGES
category PRODUCTIVITY
subject use ART, BEGINNER GRAPHIC ARTS, AND GEOMETRICAL SHAPES
ease of use IT IS AN EASY PROGRAM TO USE, YET I FOUND USING THE TOOLS
TO CREATE SOMETHING WAS A LITTLE HARD TO MANIPULATE. I THINK A
PERSON NEEDS A LOT OF TIME TO LEARN HOW TO MANIPULATE ALL THE
OPTIONS EFFECTIVELY. I COULD SEE SOMEONE GETTING FRUSTRATED IF THEY
DI
recommendation THIS IS MORE OF A FUN PACKAGE TO USE THAN USING IT AS
AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL

evaluator ALYCIA SANTILLI
software THINKIN' THINGS
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK CORP., 1993
audience GRADES 1-4
category PRODUCTIVITY TOOL
subject use SORTING, CATEGORIZING, AND IDENTIFYING SHAPES, PATTERNS,
ETC.
ease of use VERY EASY T

evaluator ALYCIA SANTILLI
software MACGLOBE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher BRODERBUND, 1992
audience GRADES 3 AND UP
category TUTORIAL
subject use GEOGRAPHY
ease of use EASY TO USE, BUT DEFINITELY FOR MORE ADVANCED GRADES.
recommendation AS AN ENHANCEMENT TO UNITS ON GEOGRAPHY, WHETHER IT
IS COUNTRY, CONTINENT OR WORLD.
.

evaluator RUTH AMBROZAITIS
software BAILEY'S BOOK HOUSE
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher EDMARK 1993
audience AGES 3-10
category DRILL AND PRACTICE AS WELLAS PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS.
subject use PRE-READING, LANGUAGE ARTS
ease of use IT WAS VERYEASY FOR ME TO FIND DIRECTIONS FOR THIS
SOFTWARE. I WOULD FEEL COMFORTABLE USING THIS IN A CLASSROOM
SETTING OF K-4 OR AT HOME WITH MY 5 YEAR-OLD And SECOND GRADER.
recommendation THIS WOULD HELP MY 5 YEAR OLD WHO IS STRUGGLING TO
MASTER NAMES OF LETTERS AND THEIR SOUNDS. THIS WOULD MAKE IT
FUN-1-1-1 AND MY EIGHT YEAR OLD WOULD LOVE TO CREAT
E CARDS, AND OTHER ART WORK, AS WELL AS MAKING UP STORIES. THE SAME
WOULD APPLY TO A CLASSR

evaluator Claude Roy
software MacGlobe
hardware Macintosh, keyboard, mouse-C monitor
publisher Broderbund 1992
audience Middle school, however maps and data could be used for all grades
category teaching software
subject use Geography, history, current events, other interdisciplinary uses
ease of use Overall, MacGlobe is pretty straightforward in its use, however,
navigating within the program can be difficult at times.
recommendation MacGlobe can enhance student and teachers' learning in
geography, history, current events and other interdisciplinary uses. From
currency conversions, time zones, maps, flags, and terrain maps, MacGlobe
provides detailed information. It can introduce st

evaluator Claude Roy
software KidCuts
hardware Macintosh, keyboard, monitor-2C mouse
publisher Broderbund Software Inc. 1993
audience K-6
category Productivity
subject use Art, interdisciplinary uses
ease of use Easy, all tools are

evaluator Claude Roy
software Thinkin' Things
hardware Macintosh, keyboard-C mouse, monitor
publisher Edmark Corporation, 1993
audience Pre K- elementary
category productivity, simulation, teaching software
subject use Creativity, categorization of objects, music, art and other uses
ease of use Easy, however instructions aren't displayed on the screen
recommendation Create picture, musical pieces, chickens etc. Can be used in
Pre-K to elementary classes to teach students to differentiate and categorize
specific characteristics of objects.

evaluator GERRY HADDAD
software THE BILINGAL WRITING CENTER
hardware MACINTOSH II SI
publisher THE LEARNING COMPANY, 1992
audience SPANISH SPEAKING STUDENTS
category TUTOR
subject use LEARNING TO WRITE IN ENGLISH
ease of use FAIRLY EASY-C BUT THE STUDENT WOULD HAVE TO HAVE SOME
KNOWLEDGE OF ENGLISH
recommendation FOR WRITING PROJECTS

evaluator GERRY HADDAD
software MICROSOFT POWER POINT
hardware MACINTOSH
publisher MICROSOFT CORPORATION, 1987-1994
audience MATURE STUDENTS
category PRODUCTIVITY TOOL
subject use ANY SUBJECT THAT WOULD REQUIRE A MAJOR PRESENTATION.
ease of use COULD BE OVER-WHELMING FOR YOUNGER STUDENTS
recommendation FOR A MAJOR PRESENTATION

evaluator GERRY HADDAD
software FIELD TRIP 1.2
hardware MACINTOSH II IS
publisher WINGS FOR LEARNING, 1992
audience ELEMENTARY SCIENCE STUDENTS
category TEACHER
subject use SCIENCE
ease of use EASY TO USE, WOULD NOT TAKE THE PLACE OF OTHER MEDIA
recommendation DURING A SCIENCE UNIT TO SUPPLEMENT OTHER MATERIALS

evaluator GERRY HADDAD
software MACGLOBE
hardware MACINTOSH II
publisher BRODERBUND SOFTWARE
audience SOCIAL STUDIES STUDENTS 5-8
category TEACHER
subject use GEOGRAPHY
ease of use EASY TO USE, VERY COMPREHENSIVE