Understanding FETAC Modules and Minor Awards
Courses leading to FETAC Awards are made up of modules or components (very like one subject for example in the Leaving Certificate). For each module or component where the required standard has been achieved, the learner will gain a credit or Minor Award (very like an Honour or Pass in a Leaving Certificate subject).
So for example, by completing our FETAC Level 5 Practical Home Care Skills Module successfully, you would receive a FETAC Level 5 Minor Award or one credit towards a full FETAC Level 5 Major Award which requires completion of 8 modules (very like a whole Leaving Certificate).
Modules at FETAC Level 4, 5 and 6 are graded as follows:-
Distinction 80-100%
Merit 65-79%
Pass 50-64%
The grade achieved depends on how well you complete your assignments, skills demonstrations or other tasks allocated by the tutor. It is through these assessment methods than the tutor assesses your learning so it is very important that you listen to your tutor and prepare for your assignments as he or she advises. The more preparation and effort you put in, the better your results are likely to be.
It is very important to note that participation and payment for a FETAC Course does not guarantee that you will achieve a Pass Grade. The grade achieved is given based on a combination of factors such as the quality of the assignments submitted, overall attendance at sessions, successful and careful completion of skills demonstrations, submission of assignments by agreed deadlines and through other methods of assessment. The learner is responsible for ensuring that they have met these standards in order to pass the course. Each learner should prepare for skills demonstrations, examinations and assignments seriously as this is what they will be graded on.
The difference between doing a FETAC Module and a Leaving Certificate subject for example might be the variety of ways that the learning is assessed. Assessment of a FETAC Module Level 4 or 5 might be done with group discussions, keeping a learner journal, completing written assignments, doing skills demonstrations or using other methods such as role plays or presentations depending on the module being studied whereas a Leaving Certificate subject is often assessed on the basis of one examination at end of a year. This way of learning and assessing is attractive to many adult learners and tutors.
Modules at FETAC Level 1, 2, 3 are assessed by submitting a portfolio or collection of work. This work is not graded but is judged as “successful” or “referral” (means more work may be required by the learner in order for it to be judged “successful”).
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