The majority of participants (48) rated the content of the course as ‘very relevant’ to the curriculum with 4 participants (all from Dublin course) rating it as ‘somewhat relevant’. The vast majority of participants (51) said they will definitely use aspects of what was covered in the course back in school, for example; Resources, ISS Kit/websites; DPSM activities; rockets and models of the solar system. A total of 47 respondents would rate the course as better than other summer courses, 4 would regard it as much the same and one would regard it as not as good as other courses. The vast majority of participants (51) would recommend the course to other teachers. In terms of satisfaction with tutors the vast majority (51) participants ranked this as 4 or 5 (with one exception in relation to one speaker). In terms of overall satisfaction with the course the vast majority of participants ranked this as 4 or 5. Sample of comments Offaly “I found this course has helped build my confidence when it comes to science. I will most definitely be recommending it to my colleagues if it is in Birr again. Much of the success of this course has been with how it was presented by Una and Robert.” “Definitely a fresh way of looking at science and maths.” “Very informative and useful course. It broadened my own knowledge also. Very interactive with both course tutor and IT.” Dublin “Practicality of the course was excellent. Everything we did was applicable to the classroom at different levels. The mix of hands on activities and computer based info such as Heavens Above website was excellent.” “Excellent course with expert presenters – very interesting and relevant” “Well taken care of by staff and facilitators” Cork “Fantastic course. Brilliant facility. I hope to bring my class to the observatory in the coming year for a tour/workshop.” “Wonderful setting. Great learning atmosphere. Enthusiasm/passion for the topic palpable.” “I really enjoyed the course and found it beneficial and worthwhile. I definitely see myself using a lot of the activities in my classroom in the future.”
“This course has inspired me to ‘launch’ into space study in science as quickly as I can when returning back to school in September.” “1. Very Informative 2. Well organized 3. Hands on activities 4. Lots of Resources 5. Enthusiastic guest speakers 6. Science Kit to take away 7. I feel more motivated in my approach to Science now.” “This course far exceeded my expectations. The cross-curricular approach means it can be enjoyed by all in the classroom, not just the scientists/mathematicians. The tutors presented it in a very easy-to-understand way, yet we learned a huge amount. I will definitely recommend this course to my colleagues. Thank you!” “This is a week of fun and learning. A very practical, enjoying, exciting course which leaves you buzzing with ideas and energy. So many areas of the curriculum are covered not just science and maths. I understand more about the world we live in!” “A very informing, hand-on, interactive course. Ideas most beneficial to the classroom for all ages! Thank you.” “I was very happy with the level of interaction and presentation of the course especially Robert, enjoyed his energy and passion.” “I teach 6th Class- I see myself using nearly every aspect of what I did this week as a lot of what we did covered Art, Creative Writing as well as science, history, geography and maths – Marvelous themed work could easily ensue…Significantly better than any course I have ever done…I would Love to do this course again myself next year, if the content was in any way different…I think I’ve said everything already- I loved the course! The tutors were fabulous and I hope a similar course is offered next year as a follow up – I would definitely attend and enjoy learning more – wonderful content. Thank you!” “I really enjoyed this course and thought it was most beneficial.” CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory
4. How relevant was the course content to the curriculum? Very relevant Somewhat relevant Not very relevant 5. Will you use aspects of what was covered on the course back in school? Yes, definitely Maybe No If yes, please give examples: 6. Overall, how does the course rate in terms of other summer courses you have attended? Much the same Not as good Better 7. Would you recommend the course to other teachers? Yes No 8. Please rate your satisfaction with the course tutors Not at all satisfied 1 2 3 4 5 Very satisfied