Title: Small Blue Planet
Overall Rating:
B+
Source: Now What Software
Playing Time: 30 minutes but unlimited
usage
Date: 1993
Cost: $ 32.00 Small
Blue Planet Atlas Company
Number of Players: 1
Special Equipment/Facilities Needed:
Subject Area: Social studies/science
Objectives: Learn Map Use
Brief Description: The Small Blue Planet
soft ware is a very interactive, intense graphic map simulator. This program
is well set up and organized and very easy to use. the user in this software
is free to roam through the different map systems and gallery. the control
panel is clear and easy to use making the time the user spends on the software
enjoyable.
Entry Capabilities Required: mouse skills
and some minor computer usage.
Rating: (1-5)
Relevance to objectives: (5) excellent
in relating to map use that's what this program is set up for.
Provides practice of relevant skills:
(4) the user does practice using the maps, much of this might become boring
for students after time using the software.
Likely to arouse/maintain interest: (3)
This software might have a novelty like quality to in the beginning that
would most likely ware off in a short amount of time but if tasks were
linked with the program by teachers interest might be maintained longer.
Likely to be comprehended clearly: (5)
easy to understand and get involved with, even young students could use
and gain value from this software.
Technical quality (durable, attractive):
(5) while using SBP no problems were encountered. and the graphics are
really nice.
Game: Winning dependent on player actions (rather
than chance): Not a game. so player does not
matter
Simulation: Validity of game model (realistic,
accurate depiction): (5) The map simulation
is great. The maps are very accurate up to 1993
Evidence of effectiveness (e.g. field-test
results):
(4) this program would be very effective when combined with a question
sheet but that responsibility lies with the teacher
Clear directions for play: (5) while small
the instruction book gives a very nice overview into the working of the
software. Something t is also nice is the description of the maps.
Effectiveness of debriefing:
This is a very good tool that can be used to back up the map skills that
are taught in class. This is also software that the students can explore
on their own.
Strong Points:
Very nice detailed maps and strong graphics. Easy to use.
Weak Points:
No real activities provided by software, but this can be remedied by teacher
creating some.
Reviewer: Andrew Dicob
Position: Student
Date: 9/23/98
Computer System Reviewed on: Macintosh
PowerPC 6500/250, 32mb ram.