Learn Access 2000, Level 1; Learn Word 2000, Level 1

The Microsoft Office 2000 Suite, which includes Microsoft's best selling word processor Word and the Access database program, offers a dizzying array of options--even experienced users sometimes have trouble with these complex writing and database tools, especially as new versions (with new and/or changed features) are released every few years. Learn Word 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 1 and Learn Access 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 1 provide methodical (but not plodding) step by step instruction regarding setting up documents and files using the current versions of the popular office applications. The opening tape in the Learn Word 2000 series teaches viewers how to set up the program to fit individual styles, taking a close look at the new, customizable tool bars, and solving some of the mysteries behind the powerful (and sometimes hard-to-manage) auto-correct/complete/format functions, as well as explaining how to change the default settings for the new abbreviated menus. Also much welcomed are tips to customize the office assistant, which by default takes the form of an animated paper clip (complete with winks, nods, and smiles)--it's a feature many beginners love, but one many advanced users can't turn off fast enough. The first program in the Learn Access 2000 series also takes viewers on a nice basic walk through the powerful database program using a simplified video store inventory as a sample project. After identifying likely fields (such as title, release date, price, etc.), the video teaches viewers how to enter data in a variety of ways and organize the information in a useful fashion. One distraction: throughout both lessons, the instructor's voice-over refers to an off-screen student who is supposedly demonstrating the material. Since we only see this student briefly at the beginning of the tape (and never again throughout the lesson) it feels like an unnecessary and awkward device. On the plus side, however, the producers have wisely chosen to make some of the lesson materials available as a free download from their web site at www.videoprofessor.com. The companion tapes in each series are: Learn Word 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 2 and Learn Word 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 3; and Learn Access 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 2, and Learn Access 2000 for Windows 95 or Better, Level 3. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Block)