Description: This software provides interactive activities in Chemistry (toxicity) and biodiversity (fish populations) of the Great Lakes. The activities present the major topics and considerations involved in conducting investigations in their areas, and provide data and experimental tools to conduct the investigations. Students produce reports of their work, which can be saved or printed for subsequent assessment. A "time travel" activity is included, which allows the students to observe the status of the main controlling influence on Great Lakes fish biodiveristy from 11,000 B.C. to the present, and to relate these observations to the fish biodiversity at different times throughout history.

Evaluation (10 being highest):
Graphics: 8
Interactivity: 8
Ease of Navigation: 4
Treatment of Subject: 10
Development of Critical Thinking Skills: 10

Notes: This software provides an excellent opportunity to learn about aquatic research practices, via the simulated activities of real-life students and scientists. The students and scientists are depicted as "real" people, with stated hobbies and interests (one student is a rock and roll drummer who wants to see what his drum set sounds like on a boat). Some simple analytical tools are provided, included graphing and regression analysis, as well as sampling considerations for acquiring fish. On the negative side, the interactive activities are presented in a linear fashion, making it difficult to navigate through the various options unless you first complete an activity. Overall, this is nonetheless an excellent program for a high school biology or chemistry class.