Adventures with Oslo – Tools and Gadgets (MAC – Løs CD)

Version 1.1

Besides the title, it is difficult to know immediately that the focus of this CD is simple machines, the user must investigate OSLO’s different programs before coming to the “lessons” on simple machines. OSLO attempts to take a cross-curriculum approach to simple machines, but several of its curriculum applications (such as the poetry) do little to enhance the lesson on simple machines.
OSLO is meant to be an introduction to simple machines, and is not comprehensive by any means. The introduction does little more than show a picture, the name of the simple machine (both textual and aural) and a brief animation of the simple machines. OSLO is good about showing examples of the machines in use, but there is little scientific explanation. Several of the animated diagrams are interesting and helpful, but they are not supported by explanations. OSLO offers some good examples of how the simple machines are used in modern life, but there is little explanation, reinforcement, or support for these examples.

It is interesting to note that a majority of the programs offered by OSLO do not deal with simple machines, or deal with them superficially. The content was developed by Science for Kids, which claims to be a collaboration of scientists, educators, psychologist, artists, programmers, engineers, and children. Unfortunately, OSLO does not overtly encourage users to seek more information from other sources.