May 14 2003
Flash MX Learning Studio
The Flash Learning Studio is an interactive learning experience made possible by, well, Flash. Accompanied by a companion book with basically the same content, the interactive portion includes animated menus and audio-visual enhancements.
The most useful aspect of the CD is the animated walkthroughs, audio commentary and realistic simulations where you can actually complete the exercise in a Flash “mock-up” interface.
The authors use of Flash to teach Flash is a great concept and well implemented. This type of training is ideal for learners who are new to Flash and are eager to learn at their own pace.
And learn they will, with the Learning Studio. The CD covers a wealth of topics and techniques, giving the trainee a broad-based knowledge of the program. And I doubt there is a faster way to learn without a live (expensive) tutor.
But this isn’t cheap either. Though less than training, you’ll want to make sure it is the learing tool for you before investing. If you are already an advanced Flash user, you will find yourself a little bored. With my four years of Flash experience I was hard-pressed to find anything new on the CD.
So, my verdict would be this: If you are new to Flash (and if you got it at educational price – one of the best deals in all software) then it is worth forking over the loot to learn Flash well. However, if you picked up Flash with the rest of us in the salad days of the dot-com, then you won’t find enough new to justify the price.
The Flash MX Learning Studio is $119.99