Which console for me?

If I were in charge of buying a gaming system for my library... well, first of that, I doubt that'd ever happen, because I work in a public school library, and we barely have enough time for computers and library instruction, let alone time to play video games. However, if I was to buy a video game system for a library...

First, I'd take into consideration the capabilities and limitations of various systems. I know from personal experience that the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii can wirelessly connect to other global users, and all three systems use wireless controllers. The Xbox and Wii allow up to 4 controllers to be connected at a time, while the PS3 allows up to 7 controllers to be connected via Bluetooth technology.

Armed with this background knowledge and the experience of having played on all three systems, I'd first look for other libraries who have a gaming program, to get their input on the program. Next, I'd look for reviews of the systems, either from CNET or Consumer Reports. I'd also look into expandability (extra controllers, extra memory, the library's own internet connectivity) and cost (the system itself, games, extra controllers, possibly upgrading to wireless internet).

Finally, I'd make my choice. I'd go with the Wii. I've played on all three systems, and the Wii is the most fun. It's "Mii" feature is a fun way for users to identify themselves on the system, and the family-friendly nature of many of the games is appealing to a broad audience. On the negative side, the Wii can be somewhat dangerous (my boyfriend put a hole in his friend's basement ceiling while playing Wii baseball), so I'd definitely utilize a "referee" while the system is in use. Otherwise, the Wii has broad appeal and is easy to use. I'd recommend it.

Education vs. entertainment

Ah, educational videos. When they're done well, they're great. When they're done poorly, students know it. The best educational videos that I've seen are also entertaining (edutainment?). For example, Bill Nye the Science Guy videos are fantastic. Bill Nye presents with a lot of enthusiasm and science content, and simplifies science topics without dumbing them down. These videos have their place in the classroom and in the home, as both education and entertainment.

At my school, we subscribe to a service called United Streaming, which is owned by Discovery. It offers thousands of educational videos on a range of subjects for all grades. Many of the videos are dull and difficult for young students to sit through. However, the nice thing about United Streaming is that the movies are available to download as clips, so instead of watching a full 20-minute video on the history of Thanksgiving, teachers can pick a specific 5-minute clip that pertains to their lesson. United Streaming also offers Weston Woods books on video, which are fantastic video productions of books. The illustrations are animated and the books are nicely narrated. These clips and video books are educational in the content, but entertaining in the way they're presented.

My entertainment video

This is what happens when you ask the same question to a ferret and a cat...
do you want a treat?

Watch it here:


or here.

Enjoy!