Words of advice for adult learners

Posted on August 30, 2011 at 03:43 PM

September is traditionally the time of year when lots of people think of taking up some learning. While it's often associated with children heading back to school, lots of adults are also considering taking up an evening course over the winter, or are about to enter third level as a mature student on a full or part time basis.
Last weekend AONTAS hosted an information stand at Which Course, an annual exhibition featuring various course providers. We were there to give out copies of our new Information Booklet. Called 'What Next' the booklet answers a lot of the basic questions that adults ask us - how to find a course, what the qualification means, what kinds of financial supports are available. We also provided copies of the latest course brochure from CD VEC, and promoted a freephone number which they have in place until September 9th. The freephone number 1800 20 40 80 is staffed by qualified Counsellors from the Adult Education Guidance Initiative who are there to help adults

There's nothing like an event like this to really experience where people are at. Over the course of the two days we gave out 1,000 copies of the booklet, and fielded hundreds of queries from people from all walks of life - from those looking for second chance education, people who were unemployed, women returning to education after years of raising their children, people preparing for redundancy and those preparing for retirement.

Here are some words of advice we gave to adult learners we spoke to:
- Accreditation - always ask about the qualification the course is offering. Is it aligned to the National Framework of Qualifications? This is especially important if you plan on seeking employment in other countries.

- Flexibility - how does the course fit in with your own commitments, eg work, childcare, caring for a relative. Remember, you will also need study time as well as time to complete assignments.
- Finance - can you afford the course? Are you entitled to a grant or any other form of financial support while you are studying? Are there any hidden costs that might increase the overall cost?

Download the AONTAS Information Booklet and consider your options.

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