Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who can use this website?
Schools or Colleges can subscribe to an annual site licence of £99. Pupils and students can use this at school or at home.

 

What is this site for GCSE Astronomy about?
This is a full study resource and guide that covers the Edexcel specification. Astronomy is one of the most rewarding of science subjects; we aim to promote its study at GCSE level. Our aims in producing this resource has been to create a high quality education tool that is as engaging, accessible and interactive as possible. Students with different learning styles are catered for to enhance teaching and learning. It provides both a teaching tool for teachers and a research and extension tool for students.

 

Does this cover the new specification in 2010?
Yes.

 

What examination board is GCSE Astronomy offered by?
Edexcel is the only examination body offering this qualification. You can download the specification for the qualification from http://www.edexcel.org.uk. This site is not affiliated or associated with Edexcel.

 

 

What can this course do for my school/college?
Firstly it will provide a full learning experience for users, allowing teachers to concentrate on helping individuals and coursework.

 

Secondly, some science teachers, although fully confident with other science specifications, may have had limited exposure to the GCSE Astronomy award. We aim to support them as fully as possible.

 

Thirdly, students can use this site at school or from home. It is not restricted to Key Stage 4, it can be studied by Key Stage 3 and 5 students and is an advantage for students taking related degree and certificates at higher education. Best of all, it can be fitted into the curriculum with other science awards.

 

Is this website accessible to all users?
Our site has been made so it is as accessible as possible to all users. It has undergone rigorous usability testing and is W3 validated.

 

What equipment and plug-ins are needed to view this software?
Basically no extra software will be needed that isn't already installed on the average school computer. Specifications are below.

  • An internet browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. This will be Javascript and CSS enabled. Most settings allow this.
  • Macromedia Flash plug-in (downloadable)
  • This software can also be used on an Apple PC* or Linux system.

* Flash animations will not work properly on Ipads and other IOS devices.

 

 

Subscriptions

 

Can I obtain a trial first?
Schools and Colleges can arrange a 30 day trial by contacting us.

 

What will it cost?
School access for renewable annual subscription is £149.

 

What happens when we subscribe?
Your school will receive a username and password. Students can also use this from home.

 

What does the licence cover?
The site licence allows the website to be used on any school computer. The license is renewable annually. Unlike many other education software there is no restriction on the numbers of users using this.

 

What are the restriction of use?
Schools must agree to abide by our terms and conditions and respect our copyright, schools must not allow the access details to be shared or given to individuals who are not students or staff of their organisation.

 

I'm not at a School, Can I use these materials?
The qualification is not open to private individuals as a school or college must validate your coursework and sit an examination. Some schools are willing to enter private individuals but you must check with them first.

 

In November 2011 we are offering the site to private individuals. Pricing information to follow.