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News
'DCU in the Community' reopens in Ballymun
14 September 2010
Dublin City University today reopened its DCU in the Community learning centre on Shangan Road, Ballymun. The centre is a joint-venture, funded by Ballymun Regeneration Ltd and Dublin City University and offers flexible learning opportunities for local people who have not yet had the opportunity to avail of third-level education. The centre also provides information and advice on aspects of going to college, choosing a course, filling in application forms, sourcing grants and availing of student supports.
The Centre offers flexible learning opportunities in a community-based setting, and is the flagship of the university's civic engagement programme, which is led by Professor Ronnie Munck. According to Professor Munck said, "The centre will be a 'next step' for students progressing from the excellent training programmes established in Ballymun and Whitehall, all of which provide guided pathways for adult learners. The support and cooperation of DCU staff and students is crucial to the programme's success and will ensure that the university's commitment to engaging with its neighbours translates into tangible benefits for the whole community".
The centre is holding Open Days on Wednesday 15th, Thursday 16th and Friday 17th September from 9.30am to 2.30pm for people who are interested in learning more about the courses being offered this autumn. Members of the public are invited to come along to the Open Days or to drop in to the Centre to talk to the staff. They can call Helen McQuillan for further information at 01 7008800, email helen.mcquillan@dcu.ie
The centre is offering three courses this autumn, which are all of 10 weeks duration. The Centre hopes to offer a broader range of short courses from DCU's degree programmes after Christmas.
1. Introduction to Nursing (FETAC) - which will include topics such as the history of nursing, the importance and role of the nursing profession in society, basic nursing/medical vocabulary, a range of practical care skills. Classes will take place 1 morning a week (9.30-11.30, Thursday).
2. Bridge to Education - a 10 week course designed for people who are giving serious consideration to returning to further and higher education. The course includes topics such as communications, information literacy, writing and presentation skills, 3rd level finance and internet skills. The course starts on 27 September. Classes will take place 3 mornings a week (9.30-12.30).
3. Marketing Practice (FETAC) - this course is offered jointly with Whitehall College of Further Education. It is for learners who would like to continue education in business or marketing related subjects in a business college or university.