11 November 1999

Home > Media Centre > Press Releases

1. For the first time, a Singapore developed CD-ROM has won a medal in the 1999 New York Festivals International Interactive Multimedia Competition. The Active Primary Mathematics in Rainbow Rock CD-ROM bagged the Bronze World Medal in the Education: Mathematics and Computer Science category. The CD-ROM is co-published by the Ministry of Education Singapore and Times Media Private Limited, (Education Division).

2. The New York Festivals International Interactive Multimedia Competition is an international awards competition, started in 1992, to honour excellence in communications media. For the Education Category, its emphasis is on outstanding achievements in educational content and pedagogy as well as elements that touch the hearts and minds of the users. This year, over 400 entries were received from around the world, including countries such as USA, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, South Korea, Australia and The Netherlands, of which only 49 were invited to vie for top honours in the finals.

3. The Active Primary Mathematics in Rainbow Rock is the first title of the Active Primary Mathematics series, which is developed to support classroom instruction as well as to promote independent learning of mathematical concepts and skills. The Active Primary Mathematics in Rainbow Rock covers topics in the Primary 1 and 2 curriculum and is designed to foster positive attitudes towards mathematics. The interactive and fun-filled environment engages the user to explore and learn. The user is provided with immediate feedback and is able to proceed at his own pace and challenge himself through different levels of difficulty. Clear explanations are also given to reinforce understanding. Since its launch in October 1998, the title has been used in all primary schools to support the mathematics curriculum.

4. The second title in the Active Primary Mathematics series has been available since September 1999. Active Primary Mathematics with Vroot and Vroom enhances the teaching and learning of key concepts at the Primary 3 and 4 levels. It aims to promote creativity and develop thinking and problem solving skills. The third and final title of the series is scheduled for release in June 2000.

5. The collaboration between MOE and Times Media Pte Ltd (Education Division) has succeeded in creating an innovative way to learn mathematics. Times Media Private Limited, (Education Division) has contributed its experience as a leading publisher of educational books and software while MOE project development specialists have contributed their strengths in content and pedagogy.

6. More information on software co-published by MOE can be obtained at the website: http://www1.moe.edu.sg/edumall/specialprojects/moesoftware/etd/index.html