Advanced Diploma in Apparel Technology

Purpose

The Advanced Diploma in Apparel Technology is an intensive, focused and applied qualification which meets the employment requirements of several specified niches in the apparel value chain. It is particularly suitable for continuing professional development and is additionally designed to prepare learners for postgraduate study through deepening their knowledge and understanding of theories and practices in apparel technology, and the development of their ability to undertake more complex problems and tasks through the selection and use of appropriate research methods and techniques.

Rationale

In South Africa, the apparel industry has been recognised as a potential growth sector and employer - particularly for women. The industry has low barriers to entry and therefore should be supported to ensure sustainable growth. This qualification is well positioned to meet the demand for apparel technologists from medium to large formal industry in the apparel value chain, as well as fostering the development of entrepreneurs with integrated business and technological knowledge.

The apparel profession is extraordinarily diverse, with career opportunities available in design and development, manufacturing, retail, supply side, training and entrepreneurial development, among many others. In addition to careers in industry and academia, many apparel technologists find careers in the public sector in the departments of Economic Development, various associations and councils as well as in consulting. The rapid growth and development in the apparel value chain not only seems promising for graduates, but also reinforces the need for applied research.

This qualification is designed to meet the human resource needs of the apparel value chain including higher educational institutions by providing nationally and internationally recognised higher education and training to the learners.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The RPL policy will be applicable to all prospective learners for the Advanced Diploma in Apparel Technology. The purpose of the policy is to:

• Provide a framework for the implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning procedures within the institution.
• Facilitate access and admission to learning programmes within education and training and career paths.
• Accelerate redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.
• Promote and facilitate lifelong learning.
• Outline general procedures relating to the processing of RPL applications.

The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible. The qualification may be achieved in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. The appropriate credits would be assigned provided that the prospective candidate is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in the qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements are

• National Diploma: Clothing Management, 360 Credits

Or,

• A 360 Credits Diploma in Clothing Management.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 7 totalling 128 Credits.

Modules

• Apparel Technology IV, 24 Credits.
• Applied Apparel Textiles IV a, 12 Credits.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the Apparel Industry, 20 Credits.
• Apparel Education Facilitation and Assessment, 8 Credits.
• Apparel Technology Project IV, 20 Credits.
• Applied Apparel Textiles IV b, 12 Credits.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, 20 Credits.
• Financial Practice for the Apparel Industry, 12 Credits.

1. Exhibit advanced application of apparel technology theory and practice within a selected area of specialisation in the apparel value chain.
2. Apply integrated knowledge of apparel technology with relation to entrepreneurship skills and practice to enhance the sustainability and profitability of SMEs in the value chain.
3. Critique advanced knowledge of applied textiles in all aspects of raw materials used in the manufacture of apparel and related products.
4. Produce a basic training module from concept to evaluation which fits within the education and training landscape of the apparel value chain.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply, analyse and synthesise advanced apparel technical knowledge - including key concepts, theory and practice - of a selected area of specialisation within the apparel value chain through an in-depth study of a selected product.
• Apply detailed knowledge of a selected area of specialisation within the apparel value chain.
• Conduct research associated with the apparel and associated industries.
• Communicate information and data comprehensively and persuasively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Evaluate knowledge of the apparel value chain within the macro environment nationally and globally.
• Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, theory and practice of entrepreneurship, small business management and innovation.
• Develop a comprehensive, systematic plan for a sustainable start-up, nascent or existing small apparel business.
• Apply and exhibit critical thinking skills to conduct problem solving and decision making associated with the apparel and associated industries.
• Critically review, understand and practice ethical and professional behaviour and demonstrate the importance thereof.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate detailed technical knowledge of applied apparel textiles.
• Integrate product and process knowledge including that of responsible sourcing, product development, manufacturing, retailing and aftercare.
• Demonstrate knowledge of, and practical competency in, testing and inspection practices for specific raw materials and outwork.
• Analyse specifications for apparel raw materials and production processes, and recommend economical faults management.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Demonstrate theoretical knowledge and understanding of the theories, concepts and practices of education and training.
• Develop, deliver and assess a basic training module.

Integrated Assessment

Learners will be assessed on an on-going basis using appropriate methods which will provide evidence that learners have achieved the stated learning outcomes and met the assessment criteria. Assessment methods will include written tests, assignments, presentations and where relevant - practical assessments as indicated in the module descriptors. The assessment load will balance the need for validating authentic learning with allowing opportunity for cognitive development while considering practicalities of credit value of modules and allocated contact time.

Integrated Assessments will be used to combine the assessment of a variety of different skills at the same time; assessing a number of outcomes together; assessing a number of assessment criteria together; using a combination of assessment methods and instruments. Integrated assessment is particularly important in final module assignments and presentations where the student is required to "bring it all together". Competency in Exit Level Outcome 1 is assessed throughout all modules as this is the keystone of the qualification.

The assessment will be systematic, regular and formative in nature. Formative Assessments will be used to support the learner developmentally and to feed back into the teaching and learning process. This links the relationship between assessment, learning and teaching and ensures that assessment informs and strengthens both the teaching and learning processes.

Summative Assessments will be used to make a judgement about achievement and to provide "snapshot" information about a student's level of competence at a given time. This includes assessment marks that contribute to the final mark.