National Geographic Maps Reviewer's Comments

National Geographic Maps Special Edition is an eight–disc set that includes over 100 years of National Geographic Maps to total over 500 searchable, zoomable and printable maps. These CDs are excellent resources for not only maps but also historical, social and political data.

This set contains a massive collection of information, such as war maps, topography, migration patterns as well as advanced subjects that evaluate population, density, transportation and world economies and resources. This CD set would be an excellent addition to any electronic library.

However, even though National Geographic has yet again demonstrated their remarkable ability to collect, analyze and relate data, this product is difficult to use. Since this software is difficult to navigate and does not include games or quizzes it falls behind our # 1 choice, National Geographic 3D Globe that offers nearly as much information but in an easier to use format.

Major Areas Covered:  

National Geographic Maps covers all major subjects. This includes physical as well economic and cultural geography maps and subjects.

Topics Covered:  

This product is an exceptional resource, especially for those that are looking for geography related historical and environmental information.

National Geographic Maps not only relates spatial information such as the location of major cites, hemispheres, regions, transportation and countries but also approaches the broader subjects of geography to include political, social and economic subjects. This product would be an excellent resource not only for geography but also for history. Since it has over 100 years of maps, it includes strategy maps for all of the major world wars, historic people maps and maps that include former political boundaries.

The information in this software also delves in relevant social issues such as religion, health, languages, and ethnic and racial groups. In terms of economics, it offers data relating to area or country resources and industry as well as per capita incomes and currencies.

This product even expands beyond earth and includes satellite images, planet maps such as a map of mars and other images of plants in this solar system.

Since this software offers advanced subjects it is most appropriate for students twelve and older, or interested adults.

Teaching Tools:  

Unfortunately, this product does not include quizzes or games. However, it does include interactive maps, instructional text, access to internet resources and multi media features such as photographs and video and audio clips.

Ease of Use:  

Although this feature contains literally a world of information, the information is difficult to access. If you conduct a search to find a particular subject, you have to change constantly between the eight discs to find the information you want.

Summary:  

National Geographic Maps Special Edition is a comprehensive collection of geographic data that covers all geographic concepts from cartography to ecology to development; however, it is difficult and frustrating to use.

For the price and the quality of the information, this product is an invaluable resource. However, for product that is easier to use that covers all social, economic and physical geography topics suitable for older kids or adults see National Geographic 3D Globe.