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This software is extensive in its scope. It covers a wide range of topics found in Greek and Roman mythology. The program contains multiple sections, including ones labeled Gods, Myths, Voyages, and Places. There is impeccable attention to detail. The section devoted to Gods, for example, contains all deities found in Greek and Roman Mythology. If the god is listed with the Greek name, the Roman name is also given. Clicking on an icon of a god enables the user to access information about that god. The icons are found on the bottom of the page are on a toolbar of Greek and Roman Gods. The text name accompanies each icon. For each deity, there is information about the deity's family, the complete text of the most famous myth associated with the deity and links to information about minor gods and myths connected with the deity. The user is also able to find a detailed list of literary references and art works associated with the god. The Voyages section takes the user on the path of famous voyages such as Jason's ten-year journey. The route appears on a map and an animated narrator tells the accompanying tale. Again, the user may also access several literary and artistic references. Students not choosing to surf through this vastly detailed program may also obtain information by searching alphabetically. By choosing a letter, the user may go directly to all deities, voyages, myths or places starting with the letter. An encyclopedic list will appear. This software contains many cross-references. Users may choose whatever format they are most comfortable with to obtain the information.

The content is accurate and complete. The content is appropriate for late high school or college students. The reading level for this program is very high. Due to the Greek and Roman names and the detailed amount of information presented, this program will overwhelm younger students and poor readers.

 Technical Quality

The software is very easy to use and run. Students can easily use the software. The navigation systems are easy to understand. The name of the god and a corresponding statue of the god light up. Clicking on that icon brings the user to the information page. A shell icon returns the user to the main menu. It takes just a fast run through to understand what each of the icons represents. The graphics themselves are outstanding, using the classical style of paintings and statues.

 Use of Technology

The software makes good use of technology. The Great Myths uses pleasing visuals, animation, narration and sound. The technology serves a direct purpose and there are few unusable bells and whistles. The exception to this is the background music. Interesting at first, it quickly became monotonous and annoying, and there is no way to turn off this portion of the program. The program is mostly a reference tool. There is no place for tracking student progress and no tools for the creation of a product.

 Role of Students

Students will find this a fascinating and valuable reference tool. Students are only limited by time available to explore this program. The student has complete control in running this program.

 Role of Teacher

Teachers can use this software to introduce or supplement a mythology lesson. The sound and graphics would play well using an LCD, and showing the software in this way would be an interesting alternative to a film on the same topic. Teachers will be able to access the specific parts of the software that apply to their lesson plan. Students will need little monitoring if using this software for research.

 Classroom Usage

Teachers will find this software useful in the classroom as well as a library research tool. This software is an excellent tool for research but teachers should not limit its use. Teachers can print certain myths if textbooks are unavailable. Careful teacher selection in this manner will extend the usability of the software to ninth or tenth grade.

 Critical Summary

The software contains an impressive amount of information. The graphics are beautiful. The music, however, tends to grate on the nerves after just a few minutes. This program is an excellent source of information but somewhat overwhelming for anyone not familiar with mythology. Although easy to use, this program is not for beginners.

 Overall Rating (based on a scale of 1-10) 8

 Explanation of Rating

This program is wonderful for research. It is an excellent launching point for further exploration of mythology. Its use is limited to advanced students, and the teacher should spend time considering how this program can be integrated effectively into the classroom.