Thursday, October 2, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Exciting Prospect of Virtual Reality Computer Games
The Exciting Prospect of Virtual Reality Computer Games
By Victor Epand Platinum Quality Author
You may have come across the phrase either in gaming forums of in science fiction, but exactly what is meant by virtual reality, what is it, and does it present us with any possible benefits or advantages in the future?
This phrase can be answered by either simply looking at the technology currently used, and understanding the basics of how it works, and what it tries to achieve. The more complex way of looking at this concept is by firstly asking what we understand by the word reality, before we try understanding the idea of an alternate, virtual version of reality.
Basically, if we understand the idea of reality to be the sum of all of the sensory inputs our brain receives, virtual reality is the use of technology to replace as many of those sensory inputs as possible with computer generated ones, to fool the brain into believing in a world which is false, and which only exists within the brain of the computer.
The most common form of virtual reality is one where the user wears a visor which wraps entirely round their normal field of vision. The computer then projects or displays a visual three dimensional world onto the inside f this visor, entirely replacing what the user would normally see with a computer generated view. The clever part of this is that the visor has a number of motion sensors built in to it, so that if the user turns their head, tilts their head, or moves their body entirely, the display inside the projector will move to match the user's movement, creating the illusion of the user actually moving around within this three dimensional world of the computer's.
Taking this idea further, the world may contain a number of objects, such as furniture, doors, objects that can be picked up and examined. By wearing special gloves which have a whole range of sensors built in to them, the computer can track the position, movement and actions of the user's hands, and work out whether they would be touching anything, and if so, how the objects would react. Would they be being picked up, turned, knocked over and so forth?
By adding audio as well, the user can be very immersed within this world, and with advancing technologies making greater and more realistic computer generated scenes, the user can very easily start to believe in this virtual world, or reality.
One way in which this technology is an exciting area for development is within computer and video games, and already we are starting to see early developments of this with basic visors, and hand controls which are motion sensitive. Eventually we may well all find ourselves entering an alternative reality in which to play our games, which would make chase scenes, fights and cliff top adventures even more breath taking!
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, dolls, and video games. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, dolls, and used video games at these sites for toys, computer games, dolls.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Epand
By Victor Epand Platinum Quality Author
You may have come across the phrase either in gaming forums of in science fiction, but exactly what is meant by virtual reality, what is it, and does it present us with any possible benefits or advantages in the future?
This phrase can be answered by either simply looking at the technology currently used, and understanding the basics of how it works, and what it tries to achieve. The more complex way of looking at this concept is by firstly asking what we understand by the word reality, before we try understanding the idea of an alternate, virtual version of reality.
Basically, if we understand the idea of reality to be the sum of all of the sensory inputs our brain receives, virtual reality is the use of technology to replace as many of those sensory inputs as possible with computer generated ones, to fool the brain into believing in a world which is false, and which only exists within the brain of the computer.
The most common form of virtual reality is one where the user wears a visor which wraps entirely round their normal field of vision. The computer then projects or displays a visual three dimensional world onto the inside f this visor, entirely replacing what the user would normally see with a computer generated view. The clever part of this is that the visor has a number of motion sensors built in to it, so that if the user turns their head, tilts their head, or moves their body entirely, the display inside the projector will move to match the user's movement, creating the illusion of the user actually moving around within this three dimensional world of the computer's.
Taking this idea further, the world may contain a number of objects, such as furniture, doors, objects that can be picked up and examined. By wearing special gloves which have a whole range of sensors built in to them, the computer can track the position, movement and actions of the user's hands, and work out whether they would be touching anything, and if so, how the objects would react. Would they be being picked up, turned, knocked over and so forth?
By adding audio as well, the user can be very immersed within this world, and with advancing technologies making greater and more realistic computer generated scenes, the user can very easily start to believe in this virtual world, or reality.
One way in which this technology is an exciting area for development is within computer and video games, and already we are starting to see early developments of this with basic visors, and hand controls which are motion sensitive. Eventually we may well all find ourselves entering an alternative reality in which to play our games, which would make chase scenes, fights and cliff top adventures even more breath taking!
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, dolls, and video games. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, dolls, and used video games at these sites for toys, computer games, dolls.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Epand
Strategy Game Sterility - An Exciting Genre Dumbed Down
Strategy Game Sterility - An Exciting Genre Dumbed Down
I love strategy video games and in particular military strategy games. I like feeling like I have won a victory through a display of cunning, tactics and careful planning. I also enjoy these building games where you start something from scratch and develop and grow your town/park/hospital, deciding where to point your resources and where to place new creations. I've become a little disheartened though, by seeing the same ideas and format reshuffled and re-packaged into new products.
So many of these military building strategy games revolve around deciding how to organize your resources: you decide whether to build military units, buildings, focus on farming or learning new trades. Then you conquer other players if you wish by sending troops to batter away with health bars over their heads. And you eventually win by defeating everybody or acquiring a certain amount of money or building an ultimate something-or-other.
All this is a neat idea but too many games are repeating themselves and I can't help but feel strategy as a genre has much more to offer. I personally don't get much sense of achievement from merely amassing a vast number of units and then marching them off to watch them fight amongst themselves with a just one army strength versus another to decipher who wins. It's nice to watch the game animate all the violence, though I hate the health bars that are so common. They spoil the visuals a bit for me in these instances. But I know there is an enormous amount of strategy in warfare and almost none of this seems to be considered worth tackling. I know these games are meant to be accessible to everybody and you don't want to be bogged down with too many details and complications but surely, a lot of this can be done automatically.
In the same way a driving game calculates your speed, strength of breaking, surface type, suspension, acceleration, camber etc etc when you thrash your car around the track, why can't a strategy game keep it's details under it's hood. I don't need to know the numbers being chucked around when I drive, I just get on with it and accept it when I skid around a corner instead of turn. With a strategy game, why not let the player choose how to organise his troops, dictate direction, pace and objectives and then watch it play out with calculations regarding terrain, skill, visibility, weapons etc. so the result is far more rewarding when you see what happens as planned, what didn't work as you thought it might and what was more successful than you anticipated. This is how you learn, and the more you learn the greater the sense of accomplishment when you win.
More strategy games where it is possible to win against a vastly stronger side if you can outwit your opponent, would be extremely welcome. I would like to see players channeling opponents into advantageous positions, disguising sizes of units, hiding flanking troops, utilising reserves etc. You only have to take a look at some famous historical battles to see how much tactical employment is not being used in games which try to replicate these scenes. I'm not sure I've ever played a game where I felt like I had achieved a victory through cunning. What a joy that would be!
And with regards to the building side of things, I think this is generally done much better than the combat, but a lot of games seem to exclude the best bits about this. Something as simple as deciding where things should go can add enormous replay value. If your initial planning is important with accessibility, nearby utilities and use of space having significance, it is great to play it all through again with a slightly more acute idea of where things will go and gradually work towards what you feel works most efficiently. Theme Hospital by Bullfrog is one game that I remember doing this really well. I loved starting again each time, trying to allow for future development in my opening layout of diagnosis rooms, waiting areas and toilets. Another game that comes to mind is Settlers which I had on the Amiga.
The placement of roads was important because you had to make sure your people could transport materials as quickly as possible between building that used them. One of the greatest joys of this game for me was watching everything being acted out and constructed. You could see the lumberjack hack down a tree and carry it on his shoulder down the road to the saw mill and then, after a bit of sawing action, another chap would carry the planks of wood further down the road to a construction site. You would then see your church beams being put up and stonework being applied after that. The visual development was very involving and there were plenty of decisions you had to make to ensure it all ran smoothly.
Really I would like to see a combination of all these things: much more underlying detail, planning and design involved. Settlers Hospital with some kind of war game adaptation with a gradual learning curve. Perfect! I don't think it would be inaccessible, it just needs a healthily sized manual to explain the maths that go on behind the scenes. That way when you get thrashed on a battlefield you have some reference material to understand why if you can't work it out yourself.
Ryan is an expert Research and Travel consultant. His current interest is in Airport Parking and Airport Hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Valentine
I love strategy video games and in particular military strategy games. I like feeling like I have won a victory through a display of cunning, tactics and careful planning. I also enjoy these building games where you start something from scratch and develop and grow your town/park/hospital, deciding where to point your resources and where to place new creations. I've become a little disheartened though, by seeing the same ideas and format reshuffled and re-packaged into new products.
So many of these military building strategy games revolve around deciding how to organize your resources: you decide whether to build military units, buildings, focus on farming or learning new trades. Then you conquer other players if you wish by sending troops to batter away with health bars over their heads. And you eventually win by defeating everybody or acquiring a certain amount of money or building an ultimate something-or-other.
All this is a neat idea but too many games are repeating themselves and I can't help but feel strategy as a genre has much more to offer. I personally don't get much sense of achievement from merely amassing a vast number of units and then marching them off to watch them fight amongst themselves with a just one army strength versus another to decipher who wins. It's nice to watch the game animate all the violence, though I hate the health bars that are so common. They spoil the visuals a bit for me in these instances. But I know there is an enormous amount of strategy in warfare and almost none of this seems to be considered worth tackling. I know these games are meant to be accessible to everybody and you don't want to be bogged down with too many details and complications but surely, a lot of this can be done automatically.
In the same way a driving game calculates your speed, strength of breaking, surface type, suspension, acceleration, camber etc etc when you thrash your car around the track, why can't a strategy game keep it's details under it's hood. I don't need to know the numbers being chucked around when I drive, I just get on with it and accept it when I skid around a corner instead of turn. With a strategy game, why not let the player choose how to organise his troops, dictate direction, pace and objectives and then watch it play out with calculations regarding terrain, skill, visibility, weapons etc. so the result is far more rewarding when you see what happens as planned, what didn't work as you thought it might and what was more successful than you anticipated. This is how you learn, and the more you learn the greater the sense of accomplishment when you win.
More strategy games where it is possible to win against a vastly stronger side if you can outwit your opponent, would be extremely welcome. I would like to see players channeling opponents into advantageous positions, disguising sizes of units, hiding flanking troops, utilising reserves etc. You only have to take a look at some famous historical battles to see how much tactical employment is not being used in games which try to replicate these scenes. I'm not sure I've ever played a game where I felt like I had achieved a victory through cunning. What a joy that would be!
And with regards to the building side of things, I think this is generally done much better than the combat, but a lot of games seem to exclude the best bits about this. Something as simple as deciding where things should go can add enormous replay value. If your initial planning is important with accessibility, nearby utilities and use of space having significance, it is great to play it all through again with a slightly more acute idea of where things will go and gradually work towards what you feel works most efficiently. Theme Hospital by Bullfrog is one game that I remember doing this really well. I loved starting again each time, trying to allow for future development in my opening layout of diagnosis rooms, waiting areas and toilets. Another game that comes to mind is Settlers which I had on the Amiga.
The placement of roads was important because you had to make sure your people could transport materials as quickly as possible between building that used them. One of the greatest joys of this game for me was watching everything being acted out and constructed. You could see the lumberjack hack down a tree and carry it on his shoulder down the road to the saw mill and then, after a bit of sawing action, another chap would carry the planks of wood further down the road to a construction site. You would then see your church beams being put up and stonework being applied after that. The visual development was very involving and there were plenty of decisions you had to make to ensure it all ran smoothly.
Really I would like to see a combination of all these things: much more underlying detail, planning and design involved. Settlers Hospital with some kind of war game adaptation with a gradual learning curve. Perfect! I don't think it would be inaccessible, it just needs a healthily sized manual to explain the maths that go on behind the scenes. That way when you get thrashed on a battlefield you have some reference material to understand why if you can't work it out yourself.
Ryan is an expert Research and Travel consultant. His current interest is in Airport Parking and Airport Hotels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Valentine
Arcade Games of Old Move to Personal Computers
Arcade Games of Old Move to Personal Computers
Let's step back in time for a bit. To high school years. You're walking with your high school crew through the local mall. It's an entourage that can be noticed from far away, just through sheer social awkwardness and outward nerdiness. Yet, the nerd feel your group presents isn't lambasted or laughed at, especially since where you're heading is a literal dweeb convention. The destination for all you guys and gals is the arcade - let's just name it "Down Up A B."
You walk in and the smell is one entirely comprised of competition. Of wits. And of palm sweat. The matches already in session are intense and yet, you're all looking on with excited eyes. For, you all know that collectively and even individually, most of these other so called gamers are feeble foes with their levels of hand eye coordination and special move skills. You've got the power to control and dominate in any arcade game, as does your crew.
And Hence The Arcade Challenging Begins
If you weren't so nerdily reserved, you'd unleash the Power Glove just for ornamental purposes. Just to say to your opponent before you slay them in a head to head pinball match like a gaming wizard "I love the Power Glove - it's so bad." But, you refrain. You have gaming class and too much actual intimidation to put on reserve. You also have respect for those you're about to defeat.
And hence, the challenging begins. Everyone in your group goes their separate gaming ways, seeking the machines they're most adept with to then challenge the arcade fodder that stinkingly surrounds them. Your friends, they went for pinball and skee-ball machines. You think that's silly. On the other hand, you went straight for the fighting and gun-in-hand shooter games. You watched as your friends would beat others in their old fashioned games as you ripped apart other nerds at your games.
And you danced victoriously as you blew other gamers out of the water. Upon your triumphs, you'd laugh at how they'd flop around on the ground like powerless beached whales, perhaps from that lame game Ecco The Dolphin?
You Remember Those Days?
Sure you do. How could you forget? The nostalgia of those days brings you a feeling of freshness, of gaming in an arcade like it was your first time. And you miss it. But, you're not about to go out to the arcade at your current age. Doing that would be creepy and downright questionable.
So, you're stuck in a position where you're quite limited in your arcade gaming options. Or, are you? What you might not realize is that there are arcade style games available to you right in the comfort of your own home. And they're available right through your computer on the Internet.
Bring The Arcading Experience Home
Simply by going online you can find a great assortment of games to choose from. There are arcade style games of all varieties for you to browse through, test out and play on a regular occasion. Best part is that you can pummel online opponents and not have to see the disgust on their faces afterward. So, not only is it a bit fun, but it's also, in a way, a much more mature way to conduct and satisfy your arcade gaming cravings. So, get your game on. Bring back the arcading days of old.
And know that the variety of arcade games is there for you to sort though. So, no matter which games you used to play, it's certain you'll be able to find one or a few to enjoy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=E.S._Cromwell
Let's step back in time for a bit. To high school years. You're walking with your high school crew through the local mall. It's an entourage that can be noticed from far away, just through sheer social awkwardness and outward nerdiness. Yet, the nerd feel your group presents isn't lambasted or laughed at, especially since where you're heading is a literal dweeb convention. The destination for all you guys and gals is the arcade - let's just name it "Down Up A B."
You walk in and the smell is one entirely comprised of competition. Of wits. And of palm sweat. The matches already in session are intense and yet, you're all looking on with excited eyes. For, you all know that collectively and even individually, most of these other so called gamers are feeble foes with their levels of hand eye coordination and special move skills. You've got the power to control and dominate in any arcade game, as does your crew.
And Hence The Arcade Challenging Begins
If you weren't so nerdily reserved, you'd unleash the Power Glove just for ornamental purposes. Just to say to your opponent before you slay them in a head to head pinball match like a gaming wizard "I love the Power Glove - it's so bad." But, you refrain. You have gaming class and too much actual intimidation to put on reserve. You also have respect for those you're about to defeat.
And hence, the challenging begins. Everyone in your group goes their separate gaming ways, seeking the machines they're most adept with to then challenge the arcade fodder that stinkingly surrounds them. Your friends, they went for pinball and skee-ball machines. You think that's silly. On the other hand, you went straight for the fighting and gun-in-hand shooter games. You watched as your friends would beat others in their old fashioned games as you ripped apart other nerds at your games.
And you danced victoriously as you blew other gamers out of the water. Upon your triumphs, you'd laugh at how they'd flop around on the ground like powerless beached whales, perhaps from that lame game Ecco The Dolphin?
You Remember Those Days?
Sure you do. How could you forget? The nostalgia of those days brings you a feeling of freshness, of gaming in an arcade like it was your first time. And you miss it. But, you're not about to go out to the arcade at your current age. Doing that would be creepy and downright questionable.
So, you're stuck in a position where you're quite limited in your arcade gaming options. Or, are you? What you might not realize is that there are arcade style games available to you right in the comfort of your own home. And they're available right through your computer on the Internet.
Bring The Arcading Experience Home
Simply by going online you can find a great assortment of games to choose from. There are arcade style games of all varieties for you to browse through, test out and play on a regular occasion. Best part is that you can pummel online opponents and not have to see the disgust on their faces afterward. So, not only is it a bit fun, but it's also, in a way, a much more mature way to conduct and satisfy your arcade gaming cravings. So, get your game on. Bring back the arcading days of old.
And know that the variety of arcade games is there for you to sort though. So, no matter which games you used to play, it's certain you'll be able to find one or a few to enjoy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=E.S._Cromwell
The New World of Computer Gaming
The New World of Computer Gaming
By Korey Nash
Gaming Epidemic Roots Set In
By the late 1990's, personal computers were the growing trend. More and more people were jumping on the bandwagon to bring home that new desktop or laptop home computer. As this trend continued, so did the development of better and more plentiful software. This software included numerous games programmed for various operating systems to broaden the number of potential consumers. Good graphics, solid 3-D backbones and a wide variety of games helped to fuel the growing epidemic of computer gamers.
The Next Generation of Gaming
Shortly thereafter, the new millennium hit and much more changes were on the horizon. Now, in today's world, the advancement of technology and graphics since the 1990's have been astonishing. Can you ever remember feeling like you were "in the game" or felt as though the game you were playing was "real"? Probably not, but there is no shortage of that sensation with just about any game you play in today's games. Along with the amazing progression in game quality, there has also been an enormous explosion in game quantity. Selections and game genres are unlimited, further contributing to the growing numbers of computer game players.
Today's Unbelievable Gaming Experience
Game designs and game graphics however, are not the only culprits for this booming trend. As the software itself has improved, so have the computers that drive it. Modern day computers are so much faster, more performance-oriented and are overall "better" than before. Mix those ingredients together a bit and now, let us add the internet! Yes, the internet was around in the 90's, but sites and servers as a whole are much more advanced and yes, faster! What an amazing group of tools to utilize in enjoying a remarkable new batch of computer games. In closing, get out there (if you have not already) and see for yourself how much fun that awaits you in a gaming world that is now for all ages.
If you would like to read more information on modern day computer games, please visit my blog on computer games at: http://computer-gaming-world.blogspot.com.
Korey Nash writes articles on Computers and New Age Technological Advances, penpointing the highlights of technology improvements.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Korey_Nash
By Korey Nash
Gaming Epidemic Roots Set In
By the late 1990's, personal computers were the growing trend. More and more people were jumping on the bandwagon to bring home that new desktop or laptop home computer. As this trend continued, so did the development of better and more plentiful software. This software included numerous games programmed for various operating systems to broaden the number of potential consumers. Good graphics, solid 3-D backbones and a wide variety of games helped to fuel the growing epidemic of computer gamers.
The Next Generation of Gaming
Shortly thereafter, the new millennium hit and much more changes were on the horizon. Now, in today's world, the advancement of technology and graphics since the 1990's have been astonishing. Can you ever remember feeling like you were "in the game" or felt as though the game you were playing was "real"? Probably not, but there is no shortage of that sensation with just about any game you play in today's games. Along with the amazing progression in game quality, there has also been an enormous explosion in game quantity. Selections and game genres are unlimited, further contributing to the growing numbers of computer game players.
Today's Unbelievable Gaming Experience
Game designs and game graphics however, are not the only culprits for this booming trend. As the software itself has improved, so have the computers that drive it. Modern day computers are so much faster, more performance-oriented and are overall "better" than before. Mix those ingredients together a bit and now, let us add the internet! Yes, the internet was around in the 90's, but sites and servers as a whole are much more advanced and yes, faster! What an amazing group of tools to utilize in enjoying a remarkable new batch of computer games. In closing, get out there (if you have not already) and see for yourself how much fun that awaits you in a gaming world that is now for all ages.
If you would like to read more information on modern day computer games, please visit my blog on computer games at: http://computer-gaming-world.blogspot.com.
Korey Nash writes articles on Computers and New Age Technological Advances, penpointing the highlights of technology improvements.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Korey_Nash
Hard Decisions About Software - How to Choose the Best Games & Educational Software For Your Kids
Hard Decisions About Software - How to Choose the Best Games & Educational Software For Your Kids
With so much software on the market these days choosing the best games, learning activities, and other computer materials for your kids can be tough. Sure you want your kids to have fun. But the best software should do much more than just entertain. And you certainly don't want to waste your money by purchasing something that isn't developmentally appropriate for your children.
So how can you be sure you're making wise choices when it comes to software?
For starters, read reviews of any software you're thinking about buying. You'll find reviews in a variety of places. Many computer and parenting magazines feature new reviews in each issue, and online software companies usually provide reviews of any products they carry. But aside from that, consider these five elements when choosing software for your kids:
1) Educational Value - Most good software programs explain the skills the program teaches or reinforces. You'll want to make sure a variety of skills are taught with any program you purchase. Also make certain the learning activities are age and developmentally appropriate for your kids. If you aren't sure what this means, this is where reviews will help, and look for software packages that contain a user's manual which gives basic information about child development as it relates to the software. And, of course you'll want to choose programs that encourage creativity, imagination, and exploration.
2) Design Features - First, you'll want a program that is easy to install and has several playing options. For example, a SAVE option so the game or activity can be saved each time the child plays it, and maybe even a PRINT option so the child can print out portions of his work. Next, check to see that the program offers the learner (your child) clear directions and on- screen help. If your child is a pre-reader you'll want the software to include icons or audio directions, as well. Finally, look for outstanding graphics and a program that offers animation and sound. After all, computer programs are competing with television for your child's attention and interest every day, so they must look and sound as appealing as possible.
3) Fun Appeal - If kids don't like a program it doesn't matter how educational it is. Again, read reviews to see what other kids and parents say about it. Also, check to see that the program offers positive feedback and methods for teaching children that could not be experienced in a different media (through books or by the teacher at school, for example).
4) Value vs. Cost - Some programs can seem quite expensive, yet they're really a good value because they can be used over and over again (without the child losing interest), plus they teach or reinforce a variety of skills. Also, most high quality games and actitivites offer a variety of levels appropriate and interesting for children of many different ages.
5) Scary Images and/or Violence - Emily J. Johnson, Ph.D, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse, advises parents to "avoid scary images and violent themes found in some software. Some children have particularly difficult times with scary images - even if you don't see them as scary. And regarding violence - it isn't that the child will necessarily turn around and become violent, too, but he/she learns that violence is a way to solve problems. Plus, do you really want your children 'killing off bad guys' just to learn a math concept, for example?'"
Computer games and activities are quickly becoming part of the educational experiences at childcare centers and schools across the country. Talk to your children's teachers to see which programs they recommend, and also find out which programs your children are using at school. There may be other programs you can purchase that would coordinate well with these.
Donna Nelson, M.Ed., preschool teacher at the Francis Institute Child Development Center in Kansas City, says, "the best type of computer programs for young children are ones that offer a child many choices and many ways to get to the right answer." And Linda Bell, M.S., Coordinator of the Francis Institute, reminds us that "wise parents and teachers will view computer programs as another tool to use to help children learn - and not use them as a replacement for other developmentally appropriate activities."
Once you get the hang of it, choosing the best software for your kids shouldn't be that difficult. It just requires a little time and research.
For more children's book and software reviews, as well as articles of interest to children's writers, visit the National Writing for Children Center at http://www.writingforchildrencenter.com and sign up for the mailing list to receive a free e-book for writers.
Suzanne Lieurance is a fulltime freelance writer, children's author, and writing coach. She is also the founder and director of the National Writing for Children Center. Visit her author's website at http://www.suzannelieurance.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Lieurance
With so much software on the market these days choosing the best games, learning activities, and other computer materials for your kids can be tough. Sure you want your kids to have fun. But the best software should do much more than just entertain. And you certainly don't want to waste your money by purchasing something that isn't developmentally appropriate for your children.
So how can you be sure you're making wise choices when it comes to software?
For starters, read reviews of any software you're thinking about buying. You'll find reviews in a variety of places. Many computer and parenting magazines feature new reviews in each issue, and online software companies usually provide reviews of any products they carry. But aside from that, consider these five elements when choosing software for your kids:
1) Educational Value - Most good software programs explain the skills the program teaches or reinforces. You'll want to make sure a variety of skills are taught with any program you purchase. Also make certain the learning activities are age and developmentally appropriate for your kids. If you aren't sure what this means, this is where reviews will help, and look for software packages that contain a user's manual which gives basic information about child development as it relates to the software. And, of course you'll want to choose programs that encourage creativity, imagination, and exploration.
2) Design Features - First, you'll want a program that is easy to install and has several playing options. For example, a SAVE option so the game or activity can be saved each time the child plays it, and maybe even a PRINT option so the child can print out portions of his work. Next, check to see that the program offers the learner (your child) clear directions and on- screen help. If your child is a pre-reader you'll want the software to include icons or audio directions, as well. Finally, look for outstanding graphics and a program that offers animation and sound. After all, computer programs are competing with television for your child's attention and interest every day, so they must look and sound as appealing as possible.
3) Fun Appeal - If kids don't like a program it doesn't matter how educational it is. Again, read reviews to see what other kids and parents say about it. Also, check to see that the program offers positive feedback and methods for teaching children that could not be experienced in a different media (through books or by the teacher at school, for example).
4) Value vs. Cost - Some programs can seem quite expensive, yet they're really a good value because they can be used over and over again (without the child losing interest), plus they teach or reinforce a variety of skills. Also, most high quality games and actitivites offer a variety of levels appropriate and interesting for children of many different ages.
5) Scary Images and/or Violence - Emily J. Johnson, Ph.D, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse, advises parents to "avoid scary images and violent themes found in some software. Some children have particularly difficult times with scary images - even if you don't see them as scary. And regarding violence - it isn't that the child will necessarily turn around and become violent, too, but he/she learns that violence is a way to solve problems. Plus, do you really want your children 'killing off bad guys' just to learn a math concept, for example?'"
Computer games and activities are quickly becoming part of the educational experiences at childcare centers and schools across the country. Talk to your children's teachers to see which programs they recommend, and also find out which programs your children are using at school. There may be other programs you can purchase that would coordinate well with these.
Donna Nelson, M.Ed., preschool teacher at the Francis Institute Child Development Center in Kansas City, says, "the best type of computer programs for young children are ones that offer a child many choices and many ways to get to the right answer." And Linda Bell, M.S., Coordinator of the Francis Institute, reminds us that "wise parents and teachers will view computer programs as another tool to use to help children learn - and not use them as a replacement for other developmentally appropriate activities."
Once you get the hang of it, choosing the best software for your kids shouldn't be that difficult. It just requires a little time and research.
For more children's book and software reviews, as well as articles of interest to children's writers, visit the National Writing for Children Center at http://www.writingforchildrencenter.com and sign up for the mailing list to receive a free e-book for writers.
Suzanne Lieurance is a fulltime freelance writer, children's author, and writing coach. She is also the founder and director of the National Writing for Children Center. Visit her author's website at http://www.suzannelieurance.com
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