1. What is the difference between On-line and Blended learning?

On-line learning is where the Internet is used as the delivery medium to bring the learning materials to the learner. Blended Learning combines the best of On-Line learning with the best of traditional classroom based learning delivered through structured workshops. The mix of on-line to workshop activity is dependant on the type of course you are doing.

2. What are the benefits of On-line learning?

• Convenience of learning at home, place of work or other preferred location
• Option to customise the learning, self assessments to measure your own progress, flexibility.
• Available around the clock.
• Ability to be able to learn at your own pace.

3. How long will it take to do a course?

There is no precise answer to this as each person's learning curve is different. We recommend that learners go on-line each day and cover 2-3 topics, come offline and put into practice what they have covered on-line.

4. How do I register for a course?

If you are paying for a course you can Complete the online registration form (click here to pay for a course). Courses are free of charge to unemployed clients. You can discuss course options and register for a course by visiting one of our employment services offices or training centres around the country. Click here for a list of locations.

5. Who is eligible for Free Online and Blended courses?

Jobseeker’s in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Jobseeker’s Benefit, Disability Allowance or One Parent Family Allowance and those signing on for credits are eligible for Online or Blended Training. The Employment Service Officer verifies the client’s status from the system. The “two year rule” is not applicable as these are not full SST or Traineeship programmes.

The jobseekers will continue to sign with DSFA and retain his/her allowance/benefit and will not receive a FÁS Training Allowance.

6. What do I need to do a course?

Recommended minimum specification of PC for access to online courses; Pentium Processor, 64 mb RAM minimum (128 mb recommended), 30 GB Hard Disk, 17 inch Monitor, Broadband access to the Internet, Recommended Screen Resolution = 1024 X 768, Software: Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 (IE7+)

7. How do I take an exam?

To take an exam/assessment you must attend an approved test centre for that course. Exams/assessment are administered on-line, however, you must attend an accredited test centre. (Click here for a list of centres)

8. How does On-line testing work?

On-line testing is the process of taking an exam via a P.C. over the Internet. In order to take a test on-line, you have to go to an approved test centre for that exam/subject. The Test Administrators for the specific courses regulate the test centres. Nearly all approved on-line test centres operate on advanced booking basis i.e. you contact the test centre to book an exam for a particular time and day. Exam fees are paid to the test centre, generally in advance or on the day of the exam. (click here for more information)

9. How do I get an email address?

You will need an email address to register for an online course. There are many ways to get a free email address. Here is a list of a few of the most popular free email providers:

a) Google gmail address (Click here to create gmail address)

b) Yahoo email address (Click here to yahoo mail address)

c) Microsoft Windows live (Click here to create a windows live account)