Schoolsims Forum | FAQ's

Please review the frequently asked questions and answers below. If you have further questions please let us know by Contacting us

1. Q: What are the system requirements?

A: Essentially you will need

• Microsoft excel 2003 or 2007
• install a small plugin to Excel
• Internet access
• Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7

     Here is a list of recommended system requirements:

• Broadband internet
• Video compatible capabilities

Or find out more from our page

2. Q: How do I join the SchoolSims programme?

A: Simply go to the Join us page and fill out a brief enquiry form.

3. Q: Is it available to other NCEA levels and Cambridge?

A: Currently SchoolSims programmes are designed for enhancing learning for students doing year 12. In the near future SchoolSims is looking to expand into other educational qualification levels, Contact us  to let us know what areas you are interested using sims for.

At the moment we cover NCEA level 2 and AS/A2/A level Cambridge SchoolSims programmes available in the subject areas of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, history, accounting, economics.

4. Q: How does this programme fit in with my classroom teaching?

A: These programmes should be integrated into your classroom teaching to gain the most benefit. The simulations are based around NCEA Achievement Standards and Cambridge qualifications therefore when you are covering a topic, the SchoolSims products can be integrated into your teaching method. These activities can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 3 weeks

5. Q: How long do the simulations take? I only have 50 minutes of teaching in this subject per day.

A: It depends on subject and the amount of material in the simulations. These activities can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 3 weeks depending on what you want.

6. Q: How do students get assessed?

A: Students log on to the SchoolSims programme and take part in the simulation. As they play their performance becomes available for teachers to review, making assessing very simple and fast.

7.  Q: Is support provided and what type of support?

A:  Briefings for the teacher and students are provided with the simulations. There are written and video instructions for when using the simulations. SchoolSims will also provide 24/7 email support to customers.

8. Q: Do I need special training to run your simulations?

A: No special training is required. The teacher briefing and instructional video will provide you with the information to run the simulation.

9. Q:  Are you interested in having teachers author and publish simulations?

A: Yes, you can start with us now and have a big impact on how we develop our range of products and services over the next year. Proceed to the Join us page to learn more.

Read original blog post