Showing posts with label Computers - Other Applications. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Computers - Other Applications. Show all posts

1/17/2010

Review of Character Emotion in 2D and 3D Animation (Paperback)

Any working in animation or computer drawing will find plenty of instruction on creating characters embedded with drama in Character Emotion in 2D and 3D Animation, a survey of how to recognize emotion in life and apply it to drawings and computer software such as Poser and Maya. Les Pardew is a working professional artist with over twenty years in the industry: his tips on creating exceptional animation make for an important guide especially recommended for both art libraries and collections specializing in computer gaming or animation techniques.

Product Description
Learn how to animate emotion in your characters and add drama to your animation! Character Emotion in 2D and 3D Animation deals specifically with body language, facial expressions, emotional reactions, and other methods of giving characters emotion. It also deals with adding emotion and drama to a scene or setting. A majority of animation books cover emotion as a side element. Character emotion is a major element that plays a vital role in the believability of the character. Character Emotion in 2D and 3D Animation offers comprehensive coverage of the techniques that can help you create believable emotion in your characters.

About the Author
Les Pardew was born and grew up in Idaho. His home town was a small farming community where he learned the benefits of hard work. His graduating high school class only numbered 33 individuals. From this small beginning Les has grown to become a recognized leader in interactive entertainment.

Les Pardew is a video game and entertainment industry veteran with over 20 years of industry experience. His artwork includes film and video production, magazine and book illustration and more than 100 video game titles. He is the author or co-author of eight books.
Game Art for Teens
Beginning Illustration and Storyboarding
Game Design for Teens
Mastering Digital Art
The Animation Reference Book
Basic Drawing for Games
Game Art for Teens 2nd Edition
Beginning Game Art in 3ds max
Everyone Should Draw
Game Character Animation All In One
Figure Drawing With Virtual Models
Maya 3ds Max Side-by-Side

Les started his career in video games doing animation for Magic Johnson Fast Break Basketball for the Commodore 64, He went on to help create several major games including Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, Star Wars, Wrestle Mania, NCAA Basketball, Stanley Cup Hockey, Jack Nicholas Golf , Where in the World/USA is Carman Sandiego, Starcraft Broodwars, Rainbow six and Cyber Tiger Woods Golf to name a few.

Les is an accomplished teacher having taught numerous art and business courses including teaching as an adjunct faculty member at Brigham Young University-s Marriott School of Management.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Character Emotion in 2D and 3D Animation (Paperback)

12/22/2009

Review of Adobe Flash CS3 Professional Bible (Paperback)

Do not buy this book if you intend to use ActionScript 3.0. Most of the code and examples in the book use AS 2.0. Entire chapters have this note at the beginning: "NOTE: This chapter discusses ActionScript 2.0 implementations of ..."

I bought this book as a reference for learning Flash as a beginner. There is no reason for me to waste time learning AS 2.0.

Product Description
Two of the savviest Flash experts in the industry show you how to add impact to your Web content. Robert Reinhardt and Snow Dowd know all the techniques and tricks, and they take you under the hood in this one-stop total reference guide to Flash CS3 Professional. Follow their tutorials, learn from cool examples, and discover insider secrets you won't find in any other book. Don't miss the special 16-page color insert loaded with spectacular examples. Also includes a CD-ROM.

From the Back Cover
Deliver winning Flash content with this one-stop guide

Two of the savviest Flash experts in the industry show you how to add impact to your Web content. Robert Reinhardt and Snow Dowd know all the techniques and tricks - and they take you under the hood in this one-stop total reference guide to Flash CS3 Professional. Follow their tutorials, learn from cool examples, and discover insider secrets you won't find in any other book. Don't miss the special 16-page color insert loaded with spectacular examples.

  • Learn Flash CS3's vector-based drawing program
  • Use filters, effects, masks, and layers to add impact

  • Unravel the nuts and bolts of ActionScript 3.0 code

  • Integrate sound, video, and graphics

  • Apply HTML and Text Field formatting

  • Create a game in Flash and win

  • Add interactivity and publish your Flash movies

What's on the CD-ROM?

The CD includes the original Flash project files with ActionScript code for the examples in the book, along with custom components for image loading and effects.

See the CD appendix for details and complete system requirements.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Adobe Flash CS3 Professional Bible (Paperback)

12/13/2009

Review of 3ds Max 8 Bible (Paperback)

Looking through this book I saw immediately that it suffered from the same problem as it's predecessor:lack of thought to the student's learning path.

It is a problem that is almost universal to computer instructional guides do... lack of any educational theory in its writing. It does not guide the newcomer through the art of learning the software, but rather deals with issues as if one is going through the menu commands.The tutorials consistantly use elements and commands that one will not cover for another hundred por more pages, and the chapters are not designed to "build on the student's knowledge" but rather to give all information about a given cocept right from the beginning.Thus, I am taught how to personalise the user interface and use XREFs (external references) before I am told how to create even the simplest of objects.

I am an experienced 3D analylist, with knowledge of CAD and GIS, so I am not the least experienced of readers on this topic.Even so I found it frequently infuriating to attempt to learn this software using this book.

Product Description
If 3ds Max 8 can do it, you can do it too...

Spark your creativity with the world's most popular animation software and the detailed instruction in this power-packed book from an industry expert. If you're new to 3ds Max, jump right in with a Quick Start program that will have you modeling and rendering a complete image your first day. Experienced users, discover exciting new Max 8 features such as a new module for hair and fur, a new cloth system, and much more. This comprehensive book covers every feature, and it's loaded with professional techniques and full color examples to inspire you.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of 3ds Max 8

  • Model a detailed creature right away with the Quick Start tutorial
  • Add realistic and dynamic hair, fur, and cloth to your models
  • Create complex characters with Max's new biped features
  • Use the expanded Edit Poly options to work more efficiently with Edge Ring and Edge Loop selections
  • Explore Max's new Asset Tracking system including the Autodesk(r) Vault client
  • Make texture creation a snap with the new Pelt mapping method and the Render UVW Template feature
  • Save, load, and retarget animation files using the supported XML Animation File (XAF) format
  • Easily render a series of stills from several angles with the new Batch Render tool

Bonus DVD Included!

Features a wide selection of 3D models and textures just right for your own projects, plus the Max files and examples to more than 150 tutorials. The DVD also includes a full-color electronic version of the book!

From the Back Cover
If 3ds Max 8 can do it, you can do it too ...

Spark your creativity with the world's most popular animation software and the detailed instruction in this power-packed book from an industry expert. If you're new to 3ds Max, jump right in with a Quick Start program that will have you modeling and rendering a complete image your first day. Experienced users, discover exciting new Max 8 features such as a new module for hair and fur, a new cloth system, and much more. This comprehensive book covers every feature, and it's loaded with professional techniques and full color examples to inspire you.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of 3ds Max 8

  • Model a detailed creature right away with the Quick Start tutorial
  • Add realistic and dynamic hair, fur, and cloth to your models
  • Create complex characters with Max's new biped features
  • Use the expanded Edit Poly options to work more efficiently with Edge Ring and Edge Loop selections
  • Explore Max's new Asset Tracking system including the Autodesk® Vault client
  • Make texture creation a snap with the new Pelt mapping method and the Render UVW Template feature
  • Save, load, and retarget animation files using the supported XML Animation File (XAF) format
  • Easily render a series of stills from several angles with the new Batch Render tool

Bonus DVD Included!

Features a wide selection of 3D models and textures just right for your own projects, plus the Max files and examples to more than 150 tutorials. The DVD also includes a full-color electronic version of the book!

Click Here to see more reviews about: 3ds Max 8 Bible (Paperback)

12/12/2009

Review of PowerPoint 2003 Bible (Paperback)

The book is quite detailed but everybody can put in a few shareware programs and templates on a CD these days. This CD is a complete letdown. I wish they remove the CD and reduce the cost of this book.

Product Description
* Offers greater focus on Web collaboration and delivery
* Increased coverage with 200 more pages than previous edition including.
* Features expert advice for designing effective presentations effectively communicate with the audience.
* Expanded coverage of graphics and video integration and more coverage of troubleshooting.

From the Back Cover
If PowerPoint 2003 can do it, you can do it too...

It's known as a leading sales presentation tool, but PowerPoint can do so much more. This comprehensive volume shows you not only how to use PowerPoint 2003, but more importantly, when and why. Learn to develop a plan for your presentation, analyze your audience, and make the technology meet your needs.

Then create knockout PowerPoint presentations that will dazzle your audience.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of PowerPoint 2003

  • Incorporate information into a PowerPoint presentation from Word, Access, and Excel, easily and consistently
  • Troubleshoot common PowerPoint problems and general presentation problems
  • Discover shortcuts and enhancements that extend PowerPoint's capabilities
  • Integrate video, sound, animation, and graphics to enhance your presentations
  • Learn how to select the most appropriate format for your audience and your objectives
  • Manage files, set passwords and encryption, work with multiple presentations, and package your work on a CD
  • Use colors, text, clip art, charts and tables, learn to size and position objects, and work with embedded files
  • Design self-running and user-interactive presentations and package them for distribution

Bonus CD-ROM and Companion Web site!

  • Exclusive Office 2003 Super Bible eBook, with more than 500 pages of information about how Microsoft Office components work together
  • Bonus shareware, freeware, trial, demo, and evaluation programs that work with or enhance Microsoft Office
  • Searchable eBook version of PowerPoint 2003 Bible
  • An easy-to-use interface that allows you to browse and install everything on the CD


Click Here to see more reviews about: PowerPoint 2003 Bible (Paperback)

Review of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005 Bible (Paperback)

If you are using AutoCAD 2005 or LT 2005 as a beginner who needs step by step instruction or a seasoned AutoCAD user who can use a good reference manual - this book is well worth owning.It is a very thorough and clearly written book. No new or old AutoCAD feature is left unturned.

Product Description
If AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005 can do it, you can do it too...

If you have invested in AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005, you want to get the most from these top quality tools. This comprehensive guidebook gives you a ready reference on every detail of both products. The Chapter 1 tutorial gets you going immediately, and the early chapters provide a thorough education in drawing basics. From there, you'll examine layers, text, dimensions, 2D and 3D coordinates, 3D modeling, rendering, customizing the program, and everything else you need to know.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005

  • Draw and edit 2D and 3D objects, including tables, text, and dimensions, use layers, colors, and linetypes, and print (or plot)
  • Work with blocks, reference other drawings, and connect to external databases
  • Manage drawing data using tool palettes, fields, and drawing sets, integrate other applications, and post your work on the Web
  • Create scripts, custom linetypes and hatch patterns, shapes, fonts, and custom menus
  • Program AutoCAD with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

This value-packed CD-ROM includes:

  • Real-world sample drawings integrated with the exercises
  • A large assortment of freeware and shareware programs
  • Two bonus chapters
  • Trial version of AutoCAD 2005
  • A searchable version of the book in PDF format


From the Back Cover
If AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005 can do it, you can do it too...

If you have invested in AutoCAD 2005 or AutoCAD LT 2005, you want to get the most from these top quality tools. This comprehensive guidebook gives you a ready reference on every detail of both products. The Chapter 1 tutorial gets you going immediately, and the early chapters provide a thorough education in drawing basics. From there, you'll examine layers, text, dimensions, 2D and 3D coordinates, 3D modeling, rendering, customizing the program, and everything else you need to know.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005

  • Draw and edit 2D and 3D objects, including tables, text, and dimensions, use layers, colors, and linetypes, and print (or plot)
  • Work with blocks, reference other drawings, and connect to external databases
  • Manage drawing data using tool palettes, fields, and drawing sets, integrate other applications, and post your work on the Web
  • Create scripts, custom linetypes and hatch patterns, shapes, fonts, and custom menus
  • Program AutoCAD with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!
This value-packed CD-ROM includes:

  • Real-world sample drawings integrated with the exercises
  • A large assortment of freeware and shareware programs
  • Two bonus chapters
  • Trial version of AutoCAD 2005
  • A searchable version of the book in PDF format


Click Here to see more reviews about: AutoCAD 2005 and AutoCAD LT 2005 Bible (Paperback)

12/09/2009

Review of 3ds Max 2008 Bible (Paperback)

This is a great book if you want to learn buttonology, but it seems to lack in student projects and exercises. I certainly cannot recommend this book for beginners, unless you want to use it as reference/supplemental guide to other training material. The author goes in to great deal on the "how" but doesn't really explain the "why" portion as well as I hoped he would. Definetely go to your local bookstore and glance through it before purchasing. As for my rating, I gave it a marginal rating of 3 stars simply because I thought it to be average at best, but far from bad.

Product Description
Master the complexities of 3ds Max by working through more than 150 short tutorials under the guidance of 3D expert Kelly Murdock. If you're a beginner, a Quick Start chapter shows you how to create an exciting animation your first day using the software. You'll find extensive detail on the latest features, allowing quick ramp-up for veterans of earlier 3ds versions. In addition, the book includes a 16-page, full-color insert with examples of cutting-edge 3ds Max art as well as a DVD with all the examples in the book, models and textures you can customize, a full-color and searchable PDF of the book.

From the Back Cover
The 3ds Max reference 3D designers choose

Open this book to any page, and you'll quickly see why the 3ds Max Bible is a perennial favorite of 3ds Max artists. Whether you're a beginner looking for a quick start or an expert exploring the very latest advanced features, it's all here. You'll find pages of professional tips, loads of advice, and more than 150 step-by-step tutorials guaranteed to jump-start your creativity. This is the 3ds Max book you need to succeed.

  • Make global changes to multiple objects with Scene Explorer

  • Build MAXScripts more quickly with the new MAXScript ProEditor

  • Stream and focus light through a window with the Sky Portal

  • Create compelling characters using enhanced Biped tools

  • Learn to reference, select, clone, group, link, and transform objects

  • Discover new keyboard shortcuts for speed modeling

What's on the DVD?
You'll find before-and-after example files for every tutorial in the book. The DVD also includes:

  • Unique models and textures you can customize for your own designs

  • 3ds Max 2008 trial version

  • A searchable full-color PDF of the book

Also in the Book

  • A 16-page full-color insert will inspire you with a selection of cutting-edge work done by 3ds Max artists



Click Here to see more reviews about: 3ds Max 2008 Bible (Paperback)

11/30/2009

Review of Flash CS4 Professional Bible (Paperback)

This edition of the Flash Bible was obviously written too fast - there are a lot of errors and typos in the examples.

Product Description
A completely revised and updated edition of the all-time bestselling Flash title
  • Written by two of the world's leading Flash experts, this comprehensive reference provides you with undocumented techniques, tips, and tricks on the CS4 release of Flash, the popular tool that allows you to create animations and build interactive Web sites
  • In-depth coverage on more than one thousand pages includes something for everyone-whether you're a Web novice or an accomplished Web professional-this resource will be your guide to the inner workings and capabilities of Flash CS4
  • Two of the world's leading Flash experts offer more coverage than any other book on the market
  • The accompanying CD-ROM includes trial software, addons, plugins, shareware, templates, and examples


Click Here to see more reviews about: Flash CS4 Professional Bible (Paperback)

11/28/2009

Review of Master Visually 3ds Max 8 (Paperback)

This book is through and easy to use, organized throughout by individual tasks that you can do in max -- with numbered, illustrated steps for each solution. Never before have I seen 3ds Max operations made so simple -- and yet there is so much power to be tapped in just those few steps. I rate this as "Highly Recommended" for anyone working with 3ds max. It's the kind of book that you can keep by your side for instant answers. I've found this to be a real time-saver that makes me (and my work)look great.

Product Description
* Navigating within the interface
* Creating and editing 2D and 3D objects
* Controlling animation with function curves
* Integrating walls, doors and windows
* Simulating water surfaces and fluttering flags
* Adjusting color and brightness of lighting
* Rendering scenes with Quick Render

Valuable tools on CD-ROM!
* 3ds Max 8 evaluation version
* Project files from the book

System Requirements: Please see the "About the CD-ROM" Appendix for details and complete system requirements.
* "Master It" sidebars answer questions and present shortcuts
* High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
* Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
* Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules

From the Back Cover
  • Navigating within the interface
  • Creating and editing 2D and 3D objects
  • Controlling animation with function curves
  • Integrating walls, doors and windows
  • Simulating water surfaces and fluttering flags
  • Adjusting color and brightness of lighting
  • Rendering scenes with Quick Render

Valuable tools on CD-ROM!

  • 3ds Max 8 evaluation version
  • Project files from the book

System Requirements: Please see the "About the CD-ROM" Appendix for details and complete system requirements.

  • "Master It" sidebars answer questions and present shortcuts
  • High-resolution screen shots demonstrate each task
  • Succinct explanations walk you through step by step
  • Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules


Click Here to see more reviews about: Master Visually 3ds Max 8 (Paperback)

11/14/2009

Review of AutoCAD 2006 and AutoCAD LT 2006 Bible (Paperback)

This is *the* AutoCAD book I'll keep at my desk. Whether you're a beginner or veteran user, it will tell you everything you need to know about AutoCAD 2006 or LT 2006. Clear, logically organized reference materials are put into meaningful context by helpful tutorials.

Product Description
If AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT can do it, you can do it too ...

Are you trying AutoCAD for the first time? Upgrading from an earlier version? Switching from another CAD software? Everything you need to know is right here. If you're new to AutoCAD, the Quick Start chapter gets you drawing right away. If you're experienced, go right to the new features of 2006. Each of the book's eight sections focuses on a key element of this complex, powerful program, making it easy to find what you need now and down the road.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT
* Learn the basics of using commands, specifying coordinates, and setting up a drawing
* Draw and edit in 2D with all of AutoCAD's objects, including the new dynamic blocks
* Create and present 3D drawings
* Set standards, organize with sheet sets, share data between applications, and put your drawings on the Internet
* Customize commands, menus, toolbars, linetypes, hatches, and fonts
* Create scripts, or venture into programming with AutoLISP(r) and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

Loaded with extra-value items, including
* A trial version of AutoCAD 2006 software
* More than 130 real-world drawings and files integrated with the exercises
* Stacks of software to enhance and streamline your work
* A searchable PDF version of the book

From the Back Cover
If AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT can do it, you can do it too ...

Are you trying AutoCAD for the first time? Upgrading from an earlier version? Switching from another CAD software? Everything you need to know is right here. If you're new to AutoCAD, the Quick Start chapter gets you drawing right away. If you're experienced, go right to the new features of 2006. Each of the book's eight sections focuses on a key element of this complex, powerful program, making it easy to find what you need now and down the road.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT

  • Learn the basics of using commands, specifying coordinates, and setting up a drawing
  • Draw and edit in 2D with all of AutoCAD's objects, including the new dynamic blocks
  • Create and present 3D drawings
  • Set standards, organize with sheet sets, share data between applications, and put your drawings on the Internet
  • Customize commands, menus, toolbars, linetypes, hatches, and fonts
  • Create scripts, or venture into programming with AutoLISP® and VBA

Bonus CD-ROM!

Loaded with extra-value items, including

  • A trial version of AutoCAD 2006 software
  • More than 130 real-world drawings and files integrated with the exercises
  • Stacks of software to enhance and streamline your work
  • A searchable PDF version of the book


Click Here to see more reviews about: AutoCAD 2006 and AutoCAD LT 2006 Bible (Paperback)

11/08/2009

Review of Digitial Painting Fundamentals with Corel Painter 11 (Paperback)

I sometimes get a bit overwhelmed with Painter workbooks. This one is entertaining and easy-to follow. Highly recommended for the first-time user or those needed refreshers.

Product Description
Unlock your digital artistic talent with Corel Painter 11, the industry standard for pixel-based drawing and painting. Digital Painting Fundamentals with Corel Painter 11 provides step-by-step instructions for using the basic features of Painter 11 along with a Wacom graphics tablet. Created for artists by artists, Painter 11 realistically emulates the look of traditional painting and drawing in any style you choose. You'll start with simple sketching exercises immediately, to acquire and sharpen essential skills such as eye-hand coordination and drawing what you see. As you develop familiarity with Painter's wide array of brushes and art materials, you'll be introduced to traditional art concepts such as composition, line quality, contrast, and focal points. Projects ranging from still life and landscape studies to portraits and abstract painting will help you practice and master each new skill, and the book is full of images that illustrate every technique as you progress through it. Whether you are a new artist or an experienced artist who wants to apply your skills to the digital medium, this book will help you get the hang of Painter 11's tools and features, as well as hone and perfect your painting and drawing fundamentals, skills that can be applied to any artistic medium.

About the Author
Traditional fine artist, caricaturist and cartoonist since 1970. Began working digitally in 1991. Using Photoshop and Painter, creates illustrations for books, magazines, corporate publications and the web. Classroom teacher of traditional drawing and digital painting since 1997. Author or co-author of several books on Painter and Photoshop. Author of three multimedia tutorial courses on Painter for Virtual Training Corporation (VTC). Award-winning pioneer in creating caricatures digitally at events, dba "Rhoda Draws A Crowd."

Click Here to see more reviews about: Digitial Painting Fundamentals with Corel Painter 11 (Paperback)

10/31/2009

Review of The Dark Side of Game Texturing (Paperback)

Anyone considering purchasing this who has bought David Franson's other book "2D Artwork and 3D Modelling for Game Artists" should think again. This book is just a much smaller version of that. I bought them both, and I was quite disappointed that David would just blatantly copy his other work. There are a few different tutorials but it's not worth paying the price, get the other book instead.

Product Description
A perfect and direct starting point for a beginner game texture artist! "The Dark Side of Game Texturing" is also an excellent reference for intermediate artists, or for those who want to further their digital art skills. Learn how to create game textures similar to the eerie, sinister, and ominous textures seen in great video games like Quake, Unreal, Half-Life, and Return to Castle Wolfenstein. "The Dark Side Of Game Texturing" features a plethora of dynamic, full color, step-by-step texturing tutorials that reflect the nature of those games and more including military, fantasy, medieval, and sci-fi. You'll learn how to create decals like bullet holes, blast marks, signs, and more. Sprites such as lightning, fires, and explosions are also covered. Focusing on a topic rarely covered in other 3D graphics books, this is an ultimate hands-on guide to creating totally cool game textures that directly reflect the nature of many recently released video games.

From the Publisher
The only game texturing book on the market dedicated to game texturing. Contains full color, stepwise tutorials of the coolest game textures. Useful and informative for both game artists and general 2D digital artists. Includes a CD that contains all software including the Photoshop CS demo, hundreds of textures, and a Photoshop tutorial, so no previous experience is required. Covers every class of texture for all forms of adult (PG-13 and above) video games.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Dark Side of Game Texturing (Paperback)

10/29/2009

Review of The How-To Book for SAS/GRAPH Software (Paperback)

This is a fine book with many good examples. It does need to be updated.While the book's examples are still valid, SAS(R) ODS Statistical Graphics has made it possible to do more without requiring the fine control that SAS/Graph(R) gives you.If despite this,you need a book on programming SAS/Graph, this is a solid choice.

Product Description
If you've ever stuffed "cheat sheets" into your referencedocumentation to guide you through specific tasks that the book neverdescribes in detail, you'll appreciate the approach of this how-tobook.Self-contained chapters lead you through tasks that SAS/GRAPHsoftware users typically need to perform. The book features manygraphic examples and programs and helps you interpret the steps yourSAS code follows to produce results. Readers with basic SAS/GRAPHsoftware experience who are looking for tips on particular tasks orcomputing problems will easily find just the sections they need. Thebook is also an ideal resource for students who need an example-packedsupplement to their computing textbooks.

Supports releases 6.09 and higher of SAS software.

About the Author
Thomas Miron

Thomas Miron, author of the ever-popular SAS Software Solutions,

brings impressive credentials to this book.With over 12 years of SAS

software experience, ranging from nuts-and-bolts technical support to

professional end-user training and consulting, Miron demonstrates a full

understanding of the needs of the user.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The How-To Book for SAS/GRAPH Software (Paperback)

10/26/2009

Review of IT's Elementary!: Integrating Technology in the Primary Grades (Paperback)

IT's Elementary! Integrating Technology in the Primary Grades by Boni Hamilton is a useful tool for schools while attempting to integrate technology effectively with the curriculum.She provides detailed activities and lesson plans for teachers to use within their classrooms and logistical strategies for the seamless implementation of technology.She includes examples from research and the technology standards from the International Society of Technology in Education (ISTE) which can assist educators and school leaders when transforming schools.She explains the collaborative nature of technology integration as teachers, media specialists, and technology specialists work together to plan units and activities that benefit instruction.I recommend this book to facilitate the sometimes complicated change process involving technology in schools.

Product Description
In 2004 a traditional Colorado elementary school became National School Library Media Program of the Year. How did they do it? In IT's Elementary! Integrating Technology in the Primary Grades instructional technology specialist Boni Hamilton offers an insider's view of her school's award-winning makeover. Guiding readers through the process of planning and implementing an integrated technology program on a shoestring budget, Hamilton discusses hardware procurement, lab design, curricular remodeling, classroom management, and the importance of a collaborative approach--all with an eye toward developing exciting, standards-based activities for our youngest digital natives.

Also available:

Differentiating Instruction with Technology in K-5 Classrooms - ISBN 1564842339
What Works in K-12 Online Learning - ISBN 1564842363

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is the trusted source for professional development, knowledge generation, advocacy and leadership for innovation. ISTE is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in improving teaching and learning by advancing the effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education. Home of the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS), the Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET), and ISTE's annual conference (formerly known as the National Educational Computing Conference, or NECC), ISTE represents more than 100,000 professionals worldwide. We support our members with information, networking opportunities, and guidance as they face the challenge of transforming education.

Some of the areas in which we publish are:
-Web. 2.0 in the classroom-RSS, podcasts, and more
-National Educational Technology Standards (NETS)
-Professional development for educators and administrators
-Integrating technology into the classroom and curriculum
-Safe practices for the Internet and technology
-Educational technology for parents

About the Author
Boni Hamilton has been writing and teaching for more than 25 years. She has taught all ages, from preschoolers to adults, and in a variety of contexts, from regular K-12 classrooms to special education, gifted/talented, and ESL classrooms. She received an MA in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado. Currently, Boni is Assistant Director for Instructional Technology for Littleton Public Schools in Littleton, Colorado.

Click Here to see more reviews about: IT's Elementary!: Integrating Technology in the Primary Grades (Paperback)

10/25/2009

Review of Make Your Own Music Videos with Adobe Premiere [ILLUSTRATED] (Paperback)

This book providesguidelines for producing a music video in a cost effective yet aesthetically pleasing way. It examines other videos from major artists, and provides the average mortal with information and techniques so that they can accomplish the many technical details needed to make an original music video. Chapters on preparing content for the web and for distribution make this book a very complete treatise on the many facets of adobe premiere. highly reccomended.

Product Description
Music videos are a necessity if you want to take your musical career to the next level. But how do you create one without breaking the bank? This book delivers the answers. Written by two acclaimed recording artists who've been producing their own award-winning music videos for several years, it shows you step-by-step how to get from an idea to an MTV-worthy result on a shoestring budget -- even if you've never worked with video before. Packed with easy-to-understand instructions, hands-on exercises and fascinating road diaries that illuminate the inspiration behind video concepts and special effects, it's all you need to become a music video star.
  • If you are a music lover and have always thought that you could make a music video if only you had the right tools, this book is for you.
  • If you or someone you know is in a band, and you want to make a video for your website, a cable TV channel, or as a promotional tool, this book is all you need.
  • If you have great stacks of pre-video vinyl, and you always wanted to make your own video for your favorite song, youve come to the right place.
  • If you saw a video on TV and said, "I could make a much better video than that," heres your chance.
  • If you want to become a professional music videographer, this book is a great place to start.


From the Back Cover
Music videos are a necessity if you want to take your musical career to the next level. But how do you create one without breaking the bank? This book delivers the answers. Written by two acclaimed recording artists who've been producing their own music videos for several years, it shows you step by step how to get from an idea to an MTV-worthy result on a shoestring budget-even if you've never worked with video before. Packed with easy-to-understand instructions, hands-on exercises, and fascinating Road Diaries that illuminate the inspiration behind video concepts and special effects, it's all you need to become a music video star.
  • Have fun with camera angles and special lenses
  • Discover the secrets of lip-synching
  • Create special effects with video filters and keyframes

After you've created your video, submit it for worldwide viewing via JTL Networks' streaming video site, created exclusively for purchasers of Make Your Own Music Videos With Adobe Premiere! Posting availability is limited. See the back page of the book for details.

Bonus CD-ROM!

Everything you need to get started:

  • Adobe Premiere, Photoshop and After Effects tryout versions
  • Sample clips to use with the exercises in the book
  • Three complete Kennedys music videos

System Requirements: PC running Windows 9x or later, Windows NT4 or later; Power Macintosh running System 9.04 or later.
See the "What's on the CD-ROM" appendix for details and complete system requirements.

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10/24/2009

Review of JMP Start Statistics: A Guide to Statistics and Data Analysis Using JMP and JMP IN Software, Third Edition (Paperback)

Amazon's 2008 date listed for this edition is mistaken.This is the 2005 edition.You want the Fourth Edition (2007).


Product Description
JMP Start Statistics, Third Edition, is a complete and orderly introduction to analyzing data using JMP statistical discovery software from SAS. A mix of software manual and statistics text, the book provides hands-on tutorials with just the right amount of conceptual and motivational material to illustrate how to use the intuitive, easy-to-use JMP interface for data analysis. Each chapter features concept-specific tutorials, examples, brief reviews of concepts, step-by-step illustrations, and exercises.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JMP Start Statistics: A Guide to Statistics and Data Analysis Using JMP and JMP IN Software, Third Edition (Paperback)