ALSC announces the 2001 Notable Computer Software for Children

Contact: Laura Schulte-Cooper


312-280-2165

ALA News Release


For Immediate Release


March 2001

ALSC announces the 2001 Notable Computer Software for Children

The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), has selected its 2001 list of Notable Computer Software for Children. The notables recognize high-quality computer programs published during the preceding year.

The selected software products are:

  • Encarta Language Learning French Deluxe, distributed by Microsoft. With high-quality video content recorded in Paris using native speakers, this self directed program for middle school or home use immerses beginners in the language through listening, speaking and reading activities. The study planner allows multiple users to determine pace and track progress. Special features include ability to listen to scenes at two speeds (conversational and learning), capability of manipulating video to see individual sentences, multiple approaches to vocabulary development, available French captioning or English translation as desired and cultural notes to enhance video segments. Most impressive are the truly interactive speaking activities, which allow the learner to converse with on-screen characters using the enclosed microphone headset.
  • Encarta Language Learning Spanish Deluxe, distributed by Microsoft With high-quality video content recorded in Mexico City using native speakers, this self-directed program for middle school or home use immerses beginners in the language through listening, speaking and reading activities. The study planner allows multiple users to determine pace and track progress. Special features include ability to listen to scenes at two speeds (conversational and learning), capability of manipulating video to see individual sentences, multiple approaches to vocabulary development, available Spanish captioning or English translation as desired and cultural notes to enhance video segments. Most impressive are the truly interactive speaking activities, which allow the learner to converse with on-screen characters using the enclosed microphone headset.

Titles are selected on the basis of their
originality, creativity and suitability for children.

Members of the 2001 ALSC Notable Children's Computer were: K. Elizabeth Beazizo, Waldo (Ore.) Middle School; Roxanne Burg, Thousand Oaks (Calif.) Library System; Kathleen Kelly Macmillan, Carroll County (Md.) Public Library; and A. Jeanie McNamara, Spangdahlem Middle School, Germany.