Anne Glover shows how to choose the best CD encyclopedia for your family. In many households, computers and printers have done away with the scissors and glue. But while creativity and presentation is important, often meaning the difference between a pass and a higher mark, it is usually research that earns the teacher's commendation. This being the 21st century, it's perhaps time for your family to invest in a CD encyclopedia.
Content is king when deciding which CD encyclopedia to buy.
If the whole family is likely to suffer through projects on ancient Greece, penguins or Australian explorers, they're the topics you'll want detailed in your encyclopedia. There's a strong push for local and civic studies in schools, and new encyclopedias have followed this trend by including more local content. The back of the CD box will give some clues, but you can't beat an in-store test drive. Enter a few topics and key words, and check which program has the most concise information. Award extra marks for good photographic content and on-screen layout.