Virtually graduating fromTipperary Institute

Bernie Goldbach, who delivers third level computing and multimedia courses at Tipperary Institute will soon be reviewed by his peers from the Higher Education and Training Awards Council -

"Among other things, our visitors will evaluate Tipperary Institute's ability to deliver third level (university level) modules in creative multimedia. My modules concern such wide-ranging topics as Media Writing, Social Media, Public Relations, Mass Communications, Applied Communications (podcasting), and Computer Games in Society"

Over a decade ago I struggled though a degree in Computer Engineering from University of Limerick and have often wondered in the meantime what kind of course would have better matched my aptitude and interests. If I was studying for my Leaving Cert again Tipperary Institute would be first on my preference list. I am aware of no comparable courses in social media and active communications in this country and I commend Bernie Goldbach on his pioneering efforts in this area.

And I'm not the only one. Tim Kirby an ex-student of Bernie's from ten years ago pays tribute to his passion for teaching -

"Living and working now in the UK, I see qualified and credible digital breadcrumbs all over the web leading to Tipperary Institute's door and the work that you and your colleagues are doing there. These threads are pure gold. They include podcast, peer review, knowledge nugget, social integration, Tipperary Skunk Work streams and contributions to Open Source projects by your students. Your students are most fortunate."

And Conn O'Muineachain puts it quite elegantly -

"Following your work over the last 3 years set me on a programme of self-led study which has led me to full-time self-employed entrepreneurship. As a result, I consider myself a recent graduate of Tipperary Institute."

Indeed, I'm sure numerous bloggers and entrepreneurs feel likewise. Many of us are students of Bernie's work.