Jackdaws... anyone use these?

[4pillars]

I am trying to figure out how these are the be used? I have looked at the website, but remain clueless! If you have used these, can you give me a description of how to use these?? Also, how much time should be allowed?
Jen

[mcconnellboys]

These are packets of printed info and pictures (often b/w and not that great quality, in my opinion) that come with a small pamphlet that includes questions for discussion or that you can use for written assignments.

I have a couple of them and I don't think they're worth the money (and I got mine at a discount compared to what they cost now). I found that we were seeing a lot of the same pictures (often in color instead of b/w; and larger, etc.) and info in the books from the library that we were reading. The Jackdaws were just a duplication of what we'd often already read!

Also, we try to see any related museum exhibits in the area when we're studying a subject and we saw a lot of the actual artifacts - much more meaningful than just pictures in a book.

Now, if you don't have a good library available, and you never go to museums, then I think that today you can still find a ton of the same info online (and again, with pictures better than theirs).

I think these were made up for classrooms where they don't want to fool with a bunch of books. If you're not opposed to the mess of stacks of books all around your house when you're studying any given subject, then I don't think you need Jackdaws at all.

There are some very good primary source websites online now for every period of time that include text of original documents, etc. For places, there are world heritage sites that cover a lot of pertinent info. There's a National Trust site that covers a lot of sites in the US. I think it operates through the National Park Service. There's a ton online! I lost all my favorites a while back, but if you really need help searching for such sites, I can help out, just let me know.

Regena

[4pillars]

Thanks Regena... I appreciate the info!
Jen

[Sandy in Indy]

I second Regena's thoughts. I purchased a pkg (on ebay) for a project. I just wasn't impressed with it at all.

[Blue Hen]

I have three Jackdaws and really found they were overpriced for what was inside. I think we spent a few hours with each one---what a waste of money.

Oh, and Regena summed them up very nicely.

[dangermom]

Yeah, I used an Alfred the Great one this year (borrowed from a friend) and was disappointed. The content hasn't changed in 20 years, I bet. For the price, you ought to get nice-quality detailed color pictures and plenty of information. I was very disappointed, and won't be buying any.