Lotus 1-2-3; Your First Computer

These two programs are part of Morris Video's line of computer training tapes. Using the expert-talking-to-the-novice format, Your First Computer introduces viewers to the various components of the microcomputer: keyboard, monitor, central processing unit, methods of storing data (floppy disks and hard disks), and the printer. Each part of the computer is thoroughly, and generally, explained, and viewers are advised to make their purchase decisions based on what their ultimate needs are. Lotus 1-2-3, using the same format as the above, takes viewers through the initial setup and creation of a spreadsheet in Lotus. Although the instruction is step-by-step, the video image doesn't always capture the entire section of the monitor where text is being input. While the information in both programs is good, overall, the character-generated text for new sections looks tacky, and there is an audible hum on the audio soundtrack throughout. In other words, these are both low-budget productions. Libraries without similar fare might consider these low cost programs, but they are not a necessary purchase. (Available from: Morris Video, 2730 Monterey St., #105, Torrance, CA 90503.)