Vikings

How do I use Vikings! in the classroom?

Vikings! is a valuable classroom resource which can be used in a variety of ways. The CD-ROM contains a Learning Guides section which outlines some of the contexts and approaches which may be used to encourage pupils to explore the world of the Vikings, including its use for project work, and to develop pupils' study skills.

Vikings! enables pupils to access a wealth of information when studying Key Stage 2 History. The CD-ROM includes sample worksheets and ideas for other activities both to help pupils to familiarise themselves with the program and to develop their historical knowledge and understanding.

How does Vikings! fit in with the National Curriculum guidelines?

The CD-ROM contains a set of Learning Guides that highlight different ways in which Vikings! can be used within the National Curriculum. In particular, Vikings! can be used as a learning resource for Key Stage 2 History: Years 3/4 - Unit 6C, Why have people invaded and settled in the past? A Viking case study.

Are there links with other parts of the Curriculum?

Vikings! can be used as a resource for subjects other than History and work from other subjects can be linked into a study of the Vikings. The Learning Guides section of the CD-ROM contains ideas for such links.

Vikings! can be used to support Citizenship at Key Stage 1 and 2; Unit 5 Living in a diverse world.

Is Vikings! suitable for use with other age groups?

Yes. The Vikings! CD-ROM is available for everyone to use, from school children to life-long learners. The information contained on the CD-ROM is presented in such a way that it is easy and clear to access.

Is Vikings! available in print?

No. The interactive nature of this product means that it is only available as a CD-ROM.

Are there any teacher's notes?

A set of learning guides highlight the different ways in which this CD-ROM can be used with the national curriculum. These guides can be found on the CD-ROM. Simply click on 'How to use Vikings!' from the main menu and then choose 'learning guides' from the menu in the window that appears. The learning guides include:

Introduction to the Vikings!
Sagas and Sums worksheets
The World of the Vikings learning guide
QCA History Unit 6c for Year 3/4

Additional resources can be found at the following web pages:

www.nc.uk.net and go to History, Key Stage 2
www.standards.dfes.gov.uk and go to Schemes, History KS1/2, Unit 6c

Can I use the Vikings! CD-ROM with an interactive whiteboard?

Yes. Although the CD-ROM is designed to run on a personal computer, you could use an interactive whiteboard to explore the contents of the World of the Vikings themed evidence boxes and research database with the whole class. With over 3600 images and over 20 minutes of original video this is an unparalleled resource.

How can I access the teachers' resources?

Load the CD-ROM and click on How to use Vikings. Teachers' resources can be found in this section under Learning Guides.

Will the Vikings! CD-ROM run on a Mac?

Yes. The CD-ROM is compatible with most computers running Windows or Macintosh operating systems. It currently works on Mac OS 8.1 to 9.x.

Do I have to install the Vikings! software on my computer to use it?

No. The software will run directly from the CD drive.

How do I load the Vikings! CD-ROM?

Insert the CD-ROM into your CD drive. Vikings! will load automatically. If it does not load, follow the instructions below:

Windows:
Click the start button and select Run... In the dialog box that appears type in the letter of your CD drive followed by :\Vikings.exe Finally, click on OK and the program will load.

Macintosh:
Double-click the CD icon on the desktop to open the CD-ROM. Locate the file called Vikings! and double-click on it. The program will then load.

Do I need to buy a site licence?

No. The cost of a site license is included in the price.

Is it possible to network the Vikings! CD-ROM and do I need to buy a network licence?

We do not advise that you network Vikings! due to the effect that this will have on the running speed of the program.

Do I need to buy a separate network licence?

No, the cost includes you site and network licences

Where can I find out more?

The CD-ROM includes a link to the World of the Vikings website (www.worldofthevikings.com) which includes frequently updated project information, an active message board and links to other Viking resources on the web.

Does this software run on an RM network?

This software does not support Community Connect 3 or other RM products.

For further information, please contact technical support at techsupport@cambridge-hitachi.com

Is Vikings! Windows Vista compatible?

Windows Vista compatibility is not guaranteed for Vikings!