DimensionM: Evolver Software Review

Brief Description

Edutainment software has come a long way shooting buffalo in Oregon Trail. Today we have fully 3-D first-person shooters with amazing graphics and sound. The software reviewed was DimensionM: Evolver™. Evolver is edutainment software focusing on pre-algebraic math skills such as: natural and whole numbers, simple roots and powers, and properties of operation. Video games are very popular with teens, most likely males, in the 7^th to 9^th grade range who learn pre-algebra. It is in the author’s opinion that some children when at home will play video games and not worry about school work. Evolver tries to bridge the gap between what the students do with their free time at home and what is learned in the classroom. This software when used properly will help supplement what is learned the classroom and help the students get interested in pre-algebra.

Software Review

Accessibility

            The software reviewed was accessible to students with LD, ED, and some MR. The “wasd” and arrow keys were used to move on the screen and the mouse was used to look and aim. There was not an option to reconfigure the keys, and in the intense action parts of the game required dexterous movement of the mouse and keys. This software would have problems with some students with PT issues.

Content

            The target audience was students in 7^th to 9^th grade learning pre-algebra. There were not options to customize and to change the level of difficulty for the individual learner. The content of the software requires its target audience to have experience with first-person shooters. The object of the game is collect items that drive the plot. An example would be to collect seashells that have prime numbers to open a gate that won’t open unless the seashells are collected. There is a tutorial and it gives a brief overview of the controls. Most of the instructions were written on-screen and also spoken. The level of language was appropriate and but the game was in-game plot driven so the student can follow along without reading every instruction.

User Friendliness

            The navigation in Evolver was consistent and easy to use. There is a title menu and from there the user can choose to play online or offline. The controls responded well to the user, and the mouse sensitivity could be adjusted. Help was provided both online and in-game. The help button during the game was useful in providing assistance to the user. The issue here again is that there are some points in the software where it is required for the user to have dexterity in the movement of the mouse and keyboard. To counter this though the user is provided with unlimited attempts and the user cannot fail a mission.

Adult Management Features

The software does not really include teacher options such as design configuration. The volume and contrast can be adjusted in the software but the user can always adjust the volume and contrast manually on the hardware. Levels can be selected in the mission select menu and different users can log on to enjoy the software. There is a point system in the game that follows the users’ progress and gold medals are presented after successful completion of the lessons. This software does not replace teacher instruction and should be used as a motivational tool not a replacement of curricula. This software does not include the option to generate reports.

Support Material

            The software includes a full manual on-line and there are help functions in the software itself. The website includes frequently asked questions and answers. There are also 1-800 numbers provided to aid individuals without internet access. The support materials are well-written and easy to understand. The onscreen instructions are helpful and assist the user in completing the task at hand.

Educational Value

            The software will help the students attain a basic understanding of pre-algebraic skills. This software does not replace teacher instruction. The subject of math, especially pre-algebra depends heavily on the attainment of math skill sets that are the foundations. Prior knowledge is then used the build new skills and knowledge. This software succeeds in bringing the motivational factor of the students to light. The students may not be motivated by math worksheets but provide a student with entertaining software then that student may be motivated. Teachers could use this software as incentive for the students that find this software novel and interesting.

Author’s Opinion

            This software will not work with every student; there is a lack of customizability and the video game platform may not be interesting to some students. The software had a novel way of presenting the material. The author’s opinion on the software was that this software is good but the software should only be used to supplement what is learned in the classroom. The software can be a great motivational tool if used properly. The teachers, parents, and administrators have to have open minds on the use of the software. The author sees potential problems with the content of the software. First it looks and plays like a video game with math skills thrown in it. The math portions of the software can be taken out and the game would basically run the same. Second there is the use of weapons in the software, the students may love video games that wield weapons but adults may have differing views especially for software intended for educational use. Lastly the software does not have replay ability, once the student has finished the software there is no incentive to play anymore. Overall, the author realizes that sometimes it is hard to motivate students to get excited to learn pre-algebra. Using all means possible to assist the students to attain the skills they need to pass SOLs will always be crucial. Using the students’ possible interest in video games could lead to better understanding and motivation that is required to succeed in the subject. The author would recommend this software but with a grain of salt. This software is not crucial and teacher instruction will not be hurt without it.