There is something very soothing about the annual AONTAS adult learning exhibition. The stands are simple, the atmosphere is reflective and those manning the displays are friendly, helpful and prepared to take the time to talk in depth to those looking for information about their courses.
The range of courses represented at the exhibition is wide, extending from the Arts, Science, IT and languages on one side to health, childcare, self-development and crafts on the other.
AONTAS is the national association of adult learning and the organisation is a good contact point for those interested in all sorts of lifelong learning opportunities. For example, AONTAS keeps a list of the adult education organisers around the country who will be able to help with specific queries. The organisation also produces a range of useful leaflets covering topics such as distance learning, foundation and access courses and applying for college as a mature student. AONTAS is based at 22 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2. Telephone (01) 475 4121 or fax (01) 478 0084.
There has been a major change in recent years in how many adult learning courses are structured. Courses used to be run in the evenings only and usually over one to three terms. Now potential students can do their learning by morning, afternoon or evening and if they can't make a long-term commitment to a course they can opt instead for one of the many shorter courses on offer or they can study in their own time on a modular programme or by distance learning.
Probably the best known provider of distance learning courses is the British-based Open University which offers diploma and degree programmes across a range of disciplines including arts, modern languages, education, law, science, technology and business studies. Undergraduate courses begin next February and the closing date for applications is October. The OU does not have any set entry requirements for undergraduate courses. Those who have already studied at higher level may be eligible for credits towards an OU qualification. The OU has an Irish office at Holbrook House, Holles Street, Dublin 2. The telephone number for advice or enquiries is (01) 678 5399.
There is also an Irish Distance Learning centre based at Dublin City University. Its range of courses is not as extensive as the OU's but it does offer undergraduate qualifications in science/information technology, arts and nursing studies as well as post graduate training in management of operations and the application of IT in Accounting. There is open entry for mature students to undergraduate programmes, courses are modular in structure and there is good local teaching support. The National Distance Education Centre can be contacted at Dublin City University, Dublin 9. Telephone (01) 704 5481.
On-line learning is distance learning with a difference. Instead of being supplied with packages of books, students log onto their computer and get their learning materials on screen. They communicate with their tutors by email or a chat line and they can access their course material at any time that suits them day or night. On-line learning is just getting off the ground here so the selection of courses is currently quite limited but it's going to grow.
Lifelong Learning Online is an initiative of the Adult Education department at University College Dublin. It offers short courses of between 10 and 12 week's duration on a variety of topics such as the internet uncovered, literature on the Net and an introduction to Irish sociology. For further information contact Fergus Keane at telephone (01) 706 8964 or email fergus.keane@ucd.ie
