Macacademy: Works: Integration, Tape 1

Originally marketed only to computer training seminar attendees, this 14-tape series which instructs viewers in various software programs on the Macintosh computer (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Filemaker, Pagemaker, etc.) is now being made available to schools and libraries. In the first tape on Microsoft's Works software program, instructor Dee Dee Mottet takes viewers through the four applications bundled in the Works program (word processing, spread sheet, database, and telecommunications) while preparing a sample letter which draws on the different applications. She begins by showing viewers how files are arranged in Works, and then demonstrates the major feature of the program: windows. With Works, one never needs to quit, for instance, the word processing program, in order to import tables from a spread sheet. A window does the trick. This is a good, solid introduction to Microsoft Works, enhanced by good close-up camera work (which always shows whatever portion of the monitor screen is being used for instruction in its entirety), and a professional approach. Although designed for use on the Macintosh, some of these programs (this one, for example) maybe applicable to IBM-PC (or clones) users also. Since this is a new program, we don't know how many more tapes will appear on Works. The other series feature 2-3 tapes. For libraries that can afford to buy a few of the more specialized fringe items, this tape is highly recommended. (Available from: Moonbeam Publications, 18530 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe, MI 48236.)