URL: http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/
Target Groups: Parents, students and educators
Objective(s):
An Interactive and Attractive Website About Nature and Animals
Obviously it is another category under “science,” but if you’re a “Green” family, or you’re really into animals, it’s an important one. The world is filled with an endless array of natural wonders and stunning places for kids to learn about, and it makes sense that National Geographic would be the entity that would offer the best nature site for kids with National Geographic Kids. This website has amazing images and explanations of animals and places on earth for kids to explore. They do also have some interactive sections like an online coloring book and a games section. The games section is very cool indeed, with one game where you race a turtle in a scene that is reminiscent of Finding Nemo.
Overall Comment(s):
Design:
The design is very attractive, well designed, very stable equipped with flash which makes the page more appealing and appropriate to the intended audience. It is easier to be found as it comes from a trusted site, The National Geographic. The texts used are consitent and easy to be read and not cluttered. In addition, users can easily go through each icons and each page loads up at a very reasonable time. The link pages are well-organised, well-chosen and useful for the students to explore the subject. For activities and games do not require any plug-ins but only Flash Player. The most interesting part, this website is very educational yet it does not require any fees or request any personal information in order explore all the menu. The graphics and colours are well chosen and very suitable for students, parents and educators.
Content & Language:
The site’s title is relevant to the purpose of the site as it deals with nature and animals. Contents are organised and well elaborated, thus it is comprehensible to the intended audience. The site provides a very relevant graphic suitable to the subject matter and the activities are very engaging and interactive. It does not require any intermediate computer skills as it is user-friendly and easier to navigate. It also provides video which loads up quickly and efficiently.This website is indeed free from any grammar and spelling mistakes, also it does not bias in every aspects such as genders and cultures. The language used is simple and the instructions given are clear and it does not use any jargons.
Usage (User control, Usability & Navigation):
Site Map and search function are provided to ease the users to navigate the specific information. It is accessible as it accomodates novice to expert users and it is designed to require minimal help and instructions. Current location within the site is shown clearly and users are able to maneuver from the top to the bottom.
Interactivity
The site is fully loaded with variety of activities, games and videos for the users from every walks of life. It is very interactive and authentic videos and pictures are used.
Concept:
The concept suits the purpose of the website as it is about nature and animals. It is very attractive and educational as it is filled with fun games and activities.
Weakness(ess):
It does not state the time it has been updated and the users are not informed whether the information provided is current and accurate.
