We’re coming ever closer to the culmination of our Full Time QQI Level 5 Computer Applications for the Workplace course, having started the final module, Web Authoring, last week. Over the past number of months course participants have been considering their futures and the steps that they will take upon completing the course.

For most, the primary aim of participating on this course was to gain skills to re-enter the workforce. Some have used the course as a bridge between their last period of employment and their next; using this time to gain new skills and qualifications that will allow them to transition into new jobs and careers.

A number of our course participants have also been preparing themselves to further their studies by going to third level college, specifically Sligo Institute of Technology, this September, where they will progress to higher levels on the QQI framework, levels 7, 8 and beyond. These learners have used their time on the course to prepare themselves for this progression in learning, familiarising themselves with some of the learning formats that colleges use including research techniques and report writing.  Additionally, support was given to these learners to prepare them for some Third Level modules that they would undertake, specifically computer programming.

A number of these learners have provided feedback on their course experiences which we are happy to share with you.  The feedback emphasises their positive take on our full-time programme and its role in giving them the skills and confidence needed to move on to Third Level education.

Here’s a sample:

I have just completed the Computer Applications for the Workplace programme at Mohill Computer Training and I can honestly say that I found it to be an extremely useful and enjoyable course.  The course has given me a more than solid foundation in the use of Office and Design Applications all backed up with QQI Level 5 awards.  Above all I enjoyed the Internet module mainly because it covered HTML and CSS, two key components of web design. These languages require careful design and structure, requisites of computer programming. Participation in the MCT full-time programme has given me the confidence and skill-set needed to continue on to a BSc in Software Development in Sligo IT.  I can honestly say that participation in the course has been a very worthwhile experience.

Rebecca McGlynn – Class of 2016

As a recently returned emigrant from Australia I was at a loss as to what my immediate future would hold.  Having heard of the computer programme being delivered at MCT I contacted the centre and was welcomed onto the course, albeit a little later than the other participants. However, with the support of the course instructors I was soon on par with the others in the class.  I found the Database module insightful as it gave me a clear understanding of the importance of data and its manipulation.  Given the way the course modules are delivered the workload is more than manageable which allows me to get on with my life and to continue playing with the Fenagh GAA club. Following this course at MCT I am going to Sligo IT to undertake a degree course in Systems and Networking which will open up even more opportunities for me.

Darren O’Rourke – Class of 2016

I found my time participating on the MCT full-time Computer Applications for the Workplace programme a rewarding experience.  The learning environment was relaxed and informal with great interaction between programme participants and staff.  The course instructors were engaging and supportive offering advice beyond the scope of the immediate course.  All assessment work was thoroughly checked for accuracy before submission which was important to me as English is not my first language.  Spreadsheets (Excel) was an enjoyable module as I could clearly see its real-world importance in the manipulation and presentation of numerical data. In addition to the programme material the instructors also covered extra-curricular activities and encouraged me to further my studies at a higher level.  Participation in this course has given me the self-belief to undertake a BSc in Software Development at Sligo Institute of Technology.

Marek Kiejza – Class of 2016

We wish Rebecca, Darren and Marek the best of luck in their Third Level education!

With the current programme ending shortly and the next commencing in early October we are presently accepting applications for the next Full Time QQI Level 5 Computer Applications for the Workplace course. If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in getting information about this course or applying to participate on the programme, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@mct.ie or by calling Bernie/John on 071 9632024.  Spread the word!