Installation is painless and takes up surprisingly few system resources, perfect for a hand-me-down computer. The graphics and navigation are delightfully cool, with an old-time feel that helps you forget the 21st-century technology you're using to browse the world of a hundred years ago. You can fiddle around for hours in the panoramic workshops, putting parts together to see how they work, observing the inventors as they explain their ideas, and even conducting and analyzing experiments yourself. You can take notes, ask questions, go online for additional information and activities, and take a step back and see how the inventors fit into other events of their times.

The unique experimental setup is the most innovative feature of InventorLabs: by designing, performing, and reviewing simulated experiments, you'll develop the same reasoning skills scientists use every day. Whether you want to be a rocket scientist one day or just want to know what's going on under the hood of your car, InventorLabs Transportation will drive the information home. (Ages 10 and older) --Rob Lightner

Amazon.com Product Description
InventorLabs invites you to enter the world of three great inventors who gave wings--and wheels--to all mankind. Meet the Wright brothers and help them build their revolutionary flying machine. Visit the turn-of-the-century workshop of Gottlieb Daimler, and explore his groundbreaking 1901 Mercedes automobile. Then tour George Stephenson's cottage, where you'll reinvent the world's first practical steam locomotive. Science springs to life in a fascinating, hands-on celebration of man in motion.

You'll be transported to another world to wander through each workroom, to open drawers, examine tools, and explore real drawings, patents, and notebooks. Meet the extraordinary men who invented the future. Probe the innermost workings of their remarkable vehicles. Then test your wits by conducting dozens of experiments, each with many unique outcomes. Like the great inventors, you'll learn from your failures as much as your accomplishments.

A User Workbook allows you to record your progress as you master the art of scientific observation, experimentation, and analysis. You'll build modern-day skills as you solve the great engineering puzzles of yesteryear.

Create your own crazy car, boat, or glider. Here's your chance to design the ultimate, strategically sound vehicle. Choose an engine, battery, and chassis, then add extras such as wings, solar panels, and more. Race your creation in over a dozen challenging courses with photorealistic objects and obstacles.