Reviewed by Chris Higgins and Jeff Tolhurst. In order to get the most out of this CD-ROM though, it is recommended that it supplement a good textbook on plate tectonics and crustal evolution. The greatest strength of this CD-ROM is its excellent graphic display of the dynamics of the earth's processes and features.
Emphasis is on visualization through color maps, diagrams, graphs and photographs.
Text is designed to complement the graphics, but its role is subordinate. Many of the graphics are animated, which is especially effective. This product will be most useful for people who favor visual learning. Several tools help the viewer interact with the graphics, including select, drag, pan, zoom and rotation. These tools sustain the viewer's interest longer than if the presentation consisted only of static images and text.