Global Grid for Learning - The digital supply network for education

FAQs and Downloads

Q: What is MB?

A: MB stands for megabyte and is a measure of file size. All content in the Global Grid for Learning is currently measured in MB, and when you select files for download, the value is subtracted from your subscription total.

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Q: What is a manipulative or learning object?

A: The terms manipulative and learning object both refer to a self-contained visual application used to teach students a specific concept.

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Q: What is the relationship between Cambridge University Press and SMART Technologies?

A: SMART and the Global Grid for Learning, a Cambridge University Press company, have formed a global strategic alliance in which SMART provides exclusive sales, marketing and customer support in select countries. In these countries, the content subscription service is called the SMART Learning Marketplace and is delivered through both the Internet and Notebook collaborative learning software.

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Q: What is an authorized institution?

A: An authorized institution is an accredited institution organized and operated exclusively for the purpose of teaching its enrolled students.

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Q: Once I have downloaded content or inserted content into Notebook software or any other application, must I be online to see and use it?

A: No. The content you download from the SMART Learning Marketplace or insert into Notebook software becomes a local copy. It can be used offline in accordance with the End User License Agreement (EULA) for this product.

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Q: What plugins and software do I need to use content from Global Grid for Learning?

A: The Global Grid for Learning offers a large digital library of resources produced by publishers from all over the world. With such a large variety of content, you may sometimes need to use special plugins. We recommend that you install the following plugins, as well as up-to-date versions of Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox operating systems:

Manipulatives or Learning Objects are often packaged as Zip files. Zip files are compressed archives, containing one or more files or folders. Often a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) or Learning Management System (LMS) contains built-in support for zip files. If you are using the Windows XP operating system, it also has built-in support for zip files.

If you're using Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT or Windows 2000 operating systems, then you'll need to install a special application to open Zip files. The following applications are usually recommended:

In some instances, JavaScript and cookies must be enabled. You may also need to enable pop-up windows, which may be blocked by your toolbar or operating system.

If you are not allowed to update your own software, you may need to ask your system administrator or school technology coordinator for help.

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Q: In which languages can I search?

A: At the November 2007 launch, searches can be made in U.S. and British English. However, if publishers describe their content in their local language, then a search in that language can be successful.

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Q: Can I modify the content?

A: Downloaded content can only be modified within the constraints of the End User License Agreement (EULA). If content is otherwise modified, it may result in a loss of rights. Modified content may not be redistributed unless it is approved in the EULA or the original rights holder has given permission.

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Q: What rights do I have when I download content?

A: Authorized users, who must be part of an authorized education institution, can use Global Grid for Learning or SMART Learning Marketplace resources for education or research during the subscription period. Use is limited to browsing, copying and reproduction for course work, display and classroom presentations. Resources may be downloaded and integrated into your institution’s secure databases in accordance with these terms. Content may not be made public in any way, specifically not on the Internet, and resources may not be used for commercial purposes.

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Q: How quickly and efficiently can administrators make the Global Grid for Learning available to multiple users in their local authority/district or school?

A: Typical implementations of Global Grid for Learning, including SMART Learning Marketplace, enables one administrative user at the district level to create a primary account. Teachers and students can log in and register under the primary account using information that the district or school administrator has e-mailed to them. Global Grid for Learning is also available as a web service or standard Microsoft SharePoint web part which makes virtual learning environment integration easy and efficient. Once integrated, the School or Local Authority/District System Administrator can manage access rights using the their virtual learning environment.

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