flexible learning in ACE

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Flexible IT training in a supportive environment

This scenario illustrates how a centre has met the IT needs of its community by offering Cert 11 in Information Technology essentially through a distance learning methodology. With a blend of paper based resources, online and face to face support they have achieved excellent outcomes.

Coonara Community Centre
Eastern Region

E: coonarahouse@optushome.com.au

Coonara Community House, situated in Upper Ferntree Gully, was opened in late 1975 by a group of local women desiring access to adult learning and child care facilities. The organisation grew steadily through the 1970s and 1980s providing a range of mostly recreational and hobby courses as well as support groups to the local community. In the early to mid 1990s Coonara commenced delivery of accredited vocational education in response to a demand for training by local women who found that they were in danger of losing their jobs in childcare if they didn’t gain qualifications. The main demographic of current students is women between the ages of 30 and 60. Whilst most of them make basic use of computers, very few are what you would call enthusiastic or adventurous fans of computer technology
From that time, local demand for training in children’s services, aged care, community work and information technology has grown at a great rate and Coonara has endeavoured to meet it. The House provides flexible training in a supportive environment that offers a genuine alternative to local TAFE delivery modes..
Courses are held part time and scheduled as far as possible on the preferred days and times of each intake of students. Great emphasis is placed on recognition of prior learning and current competencies. Consequently, approximately 35% of all students make applications for RPL or RCC.