October 29, 2007

Eugene, OR - Northwest Media, Inc., today launched On the Job: Behind the Scenes, a multimedia, reality-based computer game on CD-ROM. The game is a unique real-life, role-playing simulation depicting a first day at work. It is designed to give high-school students a competitive edge over other first time workers.

On the Job: Behind the Scenes was developed by California-based Kinder Magic, a leading research-oriented educational software developer. In the game, the student is "hired" as a busy associate producer at a Hollywood studio. The program simulates work tasks and work-related issues, including unexpected events. Users pursue career advancement, build and refine business office and personal communication skills in this fast-moving production environment.

"Youth learn what it takes to succeed as a production assistant in the video recording industry," said Ilse Ortabasi, president of Kinder Magic Software, the game's developer and a leading authority of game-based education. "Users get the favorable experience of coping with the trials of a typical workday, the ability to assess whether they have necessary skills, and the opportunity to practice and improve in a safe, forgiving environment.

"As players experience a typical entry-level job in a simulated office setting, they develop a realistic picture of the workplace and develop essential skills in time management, organization, basic math, teamwork, communication and processing information," Ortabasi said.

From their virtual office, students use the resources available to learn quickly what tasks to do and how to do them. To succeed, users must take an active role helping out as a team member, sort out several demanding tasks, meet deadlines, make decisions and solve problems under pressure. The boss offers periodic feedback on specific areas of their production. Students have the option of extra practice to improve weaker skills.

The software gives students with an opportunity to practice SCANS skills and competencies within a simulated workplace environment. Students may improve specific skills through Practice mode. The game contains more than 100 live-action videos and 70 voiceovers with a cast of 25 Hollywood actors and 40-plus realistic and fun workplace-related situations and tasks.

Northwest Media, Inc. is a creator, publisher and distributor of innovative social learning and educational products for youth at-risk and their parents. Its several operating units include SocialLearning.com; FosterParentCollege.com®; VStreet.com, and NorthwestMedia.com. The company is based in Eugene, OR.