Potential mature students thinking about taking the plunge later this year may be interested in a series of three short pamphlets produced by the adult education organisation, AONTAS, designed to provide a quick guide to relevant information for mature students. The three are called Applying to College or University as a Mature Student, Getting a Qualification: issues and choices, and Qualification: certificates, diplomas and degrees.

The pamphlet on qualifications is particularly useful as it outlines the different types of qualifications available and where they fit in the overall qualifications hierarchy. It also explains the jargon that goes with the territory - validation, accreditation, credit accumulation and so on. At the back, there is a useful list of all the main third-level institutions in Ireland and a list of all the main Irish accrediting bodies. There are also contact points for the main British awarding bodies operating in Ireland.

The Getting a Qualification publication is a helpful read as its aim is to put potential mature students on the right track from the beginning. It goes into why it's important for people to clarify their expectations before they start a course and it recommends building a progression route with a longterm goal and to draw up a series of steps to get there. For example, it's a good idea to choose a course which has follow-on potential.

Aontas also has a library and information service. If you are looking for information on learning options, opportunities or referrals to training agencies or colleges they may be able to help. The e-mail address is aontas@iol.ie or the service can be contacted by telephone on (01) 475 4121. The library specialises in material on adult education and related issues and it can be contacted at the same e-mail or telephone number.