Frequently
Asked
"Clarity before commitment - read through what participants ask most before deciding if Surugau fits what you're working on."
These questions come directly from people who contacted Surugau before enrolling. Each answer reflects how the workshops actually run - not how we'd prefer to describe them. If something here doesn't match what you expected, that's useful information before you commit time to a course.
Each workshop runs as a structured sequence of practical assignments rather than passive lectures. Participants work through real media production tasks - writing scripts, recording audio, editing video clips - with feedback built into each stage. Sessions are held online, so you join from wherever you are in Ireland.
Most workshops are designed for people who have a basic familiarity with digital tools but no formal training in media production. If you can operate a smartphone camera and edit a document, you have enough to start. Some advanced tracks do require prior completion of an introductory module.
Standard workshops span four to six weeks, with two to three hours of active work per week. This includes live sessions, independent assignments, and peer review tasks. Shorter intensive formats are available for specific skills like podcast scripting or social media copywriting.
Workshops have a defined schedule because the collaborative exercises depend on the group moving together. That said, recorded sessions and written materials are available for review at any time. Deadlines for assignments are firm, but the working hours within each week are flexible.
A reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet, and a microphone - even a basic headset - cover most workshops. Specific tracks may require free tools like Audacity for audio or DaVinci Resolve for video, both of which run on standard hardware. Surugau provides setup guides before each workshop begins.
Participants who complete all assignments and meet the minimum quality threshold receive a digital certificate from Surugau. This is not an accredited qualification, but it documents the specific skills practised and the volume of work produced during the workshop.
Feedback comes from two sources: written comments from the workshop facilitator within 48 hours of submission, and structured peer review from two other participants using a provided rubric. Both types focus on specific, actionable observations rather than general impressions.
Didn't find your answer here?
Questions that don't fit neatly into a list are often the most useful ones. Reach out through the contact page and describe what you're trying to figure out - our facilitators respond with specifics, not template replies. Ciarán Ó Briain leads the curriculum team and reviews all direct enquiries personally.
time to enquiries
duration
across Ireland