In the past, we have been reluctant to offer a complete computer curriculum for two reasons: 1) the homeschooling family is relying on one publisher for the entire content of its schooling; and, 2) having a student sit in front of a computer all day seems restrictive. Switched-On Schoolhouse, from Alpha Omega Publishers, has eased our first concern and offers advantages over a text-based curriculum for both student and teacher. This curriculum offers all major subject areas (Bible, history & geography, language arts, math and science) from a solid biblical and academic perspective. Content is AOP’s LIFEPAC series of worktexts, which has been enhanced by adding interactivity, video and audio clips, games and animation. For instance, science experiments are shown via video clips. In geometry, three-dimensional objects are illustrated as computer-generated objects rotating in space. Big events in history, literature, and the Bible can be re-enacted and shown on video. Audio clips of vocabulary and spelling words give correct pronunciations. Students have the ability to print out charts and draw graphs. Using this CD-ROM-based product is therefore much more engaging for the student than using the LIFEPAC worktexts alone.

For the teacher, advantages include automatic grading, automatic record-keeping, reports, and the ability to allow a student to repeat or skip lessons or problems as needed. Up to five students within a family can use the program (at once or during different years); however, if you update your computer system down the road, you will want to make sure your SOS software remains compatible with your new computer system.

Each grade level is available as either the complete curriculum (all 5 modules) or individual modules. The 2009 Edition of SOS offers some new and improved features including a new format for the home page, customizable themes, a daily work report of what the student has done that day, easier access to sample lessons, the capability to create more custom assignments, and some general improvements in workflow and “help” accessibility. Minimum system requirements: Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Vista, Internet Explorer 7 or higher, 500 MHz or higher processor (1 GHz or higher for Vista), 512 MB memory (1GB or more for Vista); 600 MB hard drive space), a 1024 x 768 or higher resolution monitor, 16-bit color, CD-ROM drive, Adobe Reader, and printer (recommended).

Given its many advantages and reasonable cost, Switched-On Schoolhouse is well worth considering.