Map-reading and navigation skills

Getting lost in Britain ought to become a thing of the past - thanks to a new CD-ROM being launched by Ordnance Survey to help people learn map-reading and land navigation skills. The Interactive MapExplorer package will be unveiled at this year's Camping and Outdoor Leisure Association exhibition (COLA) in Harrogate, and will be in the shops by early November.

Interactive MapExplorer is a complete self teach package which aims to provide the basic and practical map skills needed for land navigation. Users learn how to read a map, understand grid references, estimate distances and get advice on choosing and following routes safely. A comprehensive section on compass work demystifies the techniques of using a map and compass together.

The CD-ROM includes a large number of extracts from Ordnance Survey Explorer maps - as well as maps at other scales. The set also contains an actual map from Ordnance Survey's Explorer series. Bite-size teaching is followed by quiz-style questions and there are many opportunities for additional off-line practice using the Explorer map. These will help the learner to feel comfortable with a real map before stepping out of the door. "If they are honest, many people would admit to not being able to read a map properly," says Ordnance Survey's Elaine Owen. "Yet knowing how to navigate not only helps you get the most out of a walk or drive, but could also be a life-saver in an emergency. We thought it was time to produce something that goes back to basics and explains map-reading in simple terms - something that would appeal to older children and adults. That's just what I believe the Interactive MapExplorer does."

The package features 250 colour photographs, dynamic video clips, an interactive walking time planner, a route card template and tips and advice for keeping you safe. The CD-ROM has been developed in association with Silva (UK) Ltd - the leading compass and electronic navigation equipment manufacturer. Advice has also been received from many key organisations such as The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, The Ramblers' Association and Scout and Guide Associations.

As an incentive for people to learn the basics of map-reading, each boxed set includes a Treasure Trail competition. The top prize is a 'treasure chest' of Ordnance Survey maps worth £250 and there are also 12 Silva compasses to be won. Every correct entrant will receive a small prize. Priced at £29.99 including VAT, Interactive MapExplorer was conceived by Ordnance Survey and is produced for Ordnance Survey by Gordonwood Associates (GWA). It will be available through Ordnance Survey National Stockists and Approved Educational Suppliers and at all Silva stockists as well as many other high street outlets, including W H Smith.