The School of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning comprises the following administrative departments/units:
- Professional Education Unit
- Continuing Education Unit
- Compensatory and Academic Support Services (COMPASS) Centre
- Translation and Interpretation Unit
- PLAR Institute
Professional Education Unit
The primary focus of the Professional Education Unit is to offer customized training in a number of areas. The unit works with various government ministries, and cooperate entities to upgrade the skill level of their staff. The unit has established partnerships with external training institutions and firms to bring world class training and resources to our local context.
Contact Information: (Tel: 625-5030 ext.1650; 628-4600/2 e:mail: lrchirkoot@costaatt.edu.tt)
Continuing Education Unit
The Continuing Education Unit facilitates the delivery of skills development and workforce development type training. Workshops, seminars and certificate type training are offered in a wide range of areas. Traditionally, these certificate programmes were offered by the various academic schools. Continuing education credits can be awarded for programmes pursued through this unit, as the graduates of these programmes may gain matriculation into COSTAATT programmes and awarded credit transfers with CEU credits earned.
Contact Information: (Tel: 625-5030 ext.2431; e:mail: lrchirkoot@costaatt.edu.tt)
Compensatory and Academic Support Services (COMPASS) Centre
The COMPASS Centre has been designed as an alternative pathway to tertiary level education for those students who have the aptitude and the desire to pursue tertiary education but are currently academically under-prepared. The programme offers a range of pre-college courses and academic support services that help students acquire the basic knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to function effectively at tertiary level. This programme was established in September 2010 and has so far significantly impacted on the success rate of students entering the degree programmes.
Contact Information: (Tel: 625-5030 ext.2431; e:mail: pfarrell@costaatt.edu.tt)
Translation and Interpretation Unit
The Translation & Interpretation Unit (TIU) has been providing translation and interpretation services to cooperate and public clients. COSTAATT has been recognized as the official translating agent by the government of Trinidad and Tobago. The unit also offers customized training in foreign languages and offer certificate level qualification in foreign language studies. The unit will soon be providing immersion opportunities for persons pursuing studies in foreign languages through summer institutes.
Contact Information: (Tel: 625-5030 ext.2431; e:mail:cstclair@costaatt.edu.tt)
PLAR Institute
The Prior Learning and Assessment programme within COSTAATT focuses on using an alternative method for awarding transfer credits to entry students. Assessors are trained in most discipline areas of the College and will be providing opportunities in each of these areas for students to access credits for experiential learning. In addition, the college is currently engaged in using PLAR to assess employee experience during recruitment, in areas where certification is lacking. It is hoped that eventually COSTAATT will be in a position to offer this service to other institutions and companies.
Contact Information: (Tel: 625-5030 ext.2431; e:mail: lrchirkoot@costaatt.edu.tt)