The Console is the CD's main menu. It is divided into several drawers: "Amphibians," "Reptiles," "Birds," "Insects," "Invertebrates," and "Plants and Fungi." Each drawer is labeled, and users select the category for which they want information by pointing and clicking on the appropriate drawer. Users are then presented with a main "article screen" which displays a picture of a representative animal or plant and a voice-narrated, general description. The text of the description als o appears on the screen. Many of these screens contain short, narrated video clips which users may view. They can then click on the various icons to obtain more detailed or related information. The red words in the descriptions can be clicked on to rev eal their definitions or other pop-up menus relating to the word.
Hanging above the Console are two posters: "Mammals" and "Fish." These are utilized in much the same way as the Console. Users click on a poster and then select the category of information they are seeking. Once again, they are presented with "artic le screens" which they can use to link to further information.
With the Globe, users can learn about the world's habitats. Users choose from categories such as "Rain Forests" and "Mountains" by clicking on the dial at the bottom of the Globe. A red frame then appears on the section of the map where there is a ha bitat related the the their choice. Users then either select that section by pointing and clicking on it, or they spin the Globe by pointing to one of its sides and clicking. The latter action takes them to other parts of the world that have similar hab itats to that in which they are interested. The habitat screens offer narrated descriptions as well as beautiful pictures of the area. Users may use a magnifying glass tool for a closer look at parts of the pictures.
The index is quite comprehensive. Users may use a scroll bar to scroll through and highlight topics in which they are interested, or they may type them. Once a topic is selected, users are brought to the screen which contains the appropriate informat ion. This index is a good place to start for those who know what they wish to see but do not know how to get there. For example, I used the index to find information about tigers by typing "tigers" into the index. Otherwise, to get to tigers, I would h ave had to have clicked on the "Mammals" poster, clicked on "Cat-like Carnivores," and then clicked on "Tigers."
Other features of the CD include a Green Book which describes hazards to the environment as well as efforts to protect it, a section on climate through which users can learn about the oceans, the seasons, and weather, and a quiz game with which users c an test their knowledge of nature.
I would suggest that the first-time user access "Help" before beginning. This is the "?" to the left of the Console. This provides a step-by-step guide through the functions and features of the CD and is worthwhile.
System Requirements:
A customer service number for assistance in using the CD is provided on the inside of the sleeve.
Installation:
Installation was easy. I just followed the directions given in the sleeve and then responded to the screen prompts. It was quick and simple.
