Advanced Diploma in Fashion

Purpose

The core projection of this qualification is visual practice with strong entrepreneurial learning. The qualification aims to provide a learning environment in which innovation, invention and originality can be developed within a range of different, but closely related fashion pathways. The niche area is visual practice.

In addition, the qualification will equip learners with necessary skills to engage with practiced based research and implementation of research methodology. The emphasis is on creative and technical skills, product design research and development, as well as entrepreneurial skills. The learners will be able to understand the professional and ethical responsibilities in the local and global context to initiate and apply it to further research.

Rationale

The reasoning behind the development of this programme is due to the ever changing consumer needs and new advances in technology, research and development in the fashion sector. This qualification will expose a learner to research and academic report writing. Within the qualification, learners are introduced and exposed to new technology and practices in fashion. The qualifying learners will be able to apply existing and new knowledge through processes of analysis and evaluations in a specialized area of fashion production.

This qualification focuses on the professional and ethical responsibilities in the local and global context to initiate and promote employment opportunities. In addition, the qualification will provide opportunities for growth by widening access through to further studies in the field of Fashion through the introductions of Level 8-10 postgraduate programmes. The qualification provides vertical progression to a Postgraduate Diploma in Fashion 120 Credits on NQF Level 8.

Comparison investigations in were done by consulting national and international Higher Education Institutions. In addition, discussions with relevant stakeholders assisted the department of fashion to develop this new qualification in order to keep abreast with the ideals and outcomes envisioned. The qualification aims to produce a highly skilled competent post graduate learner, analyser, illustrator and designer as well as encouraging entrepreneurial possibilities in the fashion sector.

RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)

The RPL policy provides procedures on how RPL is implemented at the institution.

Evaluation of the applicant's prior learning is accomplished by submission of a portfolio of relevant fashion/clothing design work and other information; by interview; and if necessary by the completion of projects or exercises to provide evidence of competences not otherwise clear. Successful assessment enables the applicant to enter the course at an appropriate level. If the RPL is awarded, an exemption form is completed and the candidate may continue with full registration.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The minimum requirement for this qualification is

• A 360 Credits Diploma in Fashion or Fashion Design or a relevant qualification at Level 6.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

• Fashion: Portfolio, 50 Credits.
• Business: Fashion, 30 Credits.
• Fashion Theory Module 1: Research Methods and Techniques, 20 Credits.
• Fashion Theory Module 2: Written Report Fashion, 20 Credits.

1. Solve problems relating to the field of study (Fashion).
2. Collect, analyse and interpret data.
3. Develop new competencies through research methodology, writing skills and business and practical innovation.
4. Demonstrate professionalism through visual and technical communication skills.
5. Explore fashion related knowledge in a production process.
6. Understand and apply the ethical responsibility of conducting of research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes1

• Apply advanced, specialized knowledge of fashion influences, theory, principles and techniques to identify and solve complex fashion industry related problems.
• Analyse and interpret literature/data/statistics to solve evidence-based arguments in meeting customer and target market needs.
• Apply a wide range of advanced technical and technological skills to develop innovative fashion related solutions (e.g. computer aided design, pattern engineering and garment technology) during the creation of a practical project fashion portfolio.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2

• Apply selected theories, methods and procedures to develop fashion related designing and production processes.
• Collect data through research and investigative processes to develop informed business strategies.
• Analyse, interpret and reflect on fashion theories, literature and data through analysis and dissemination processes to formulate and provide direction within a fast changing fashion environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3

• Utilise developed knowledge and skills to identify and formulate a problem statement and research methodology and conducting research to investigate a chosen topic.
• Construct research informed business and practical innovation to resolve fashion industry problems.
• Write a research report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4

• Produce original fashion concepts, illustrations and designs to communicate with and satisfy changing customer needs and target markets.
• Communicate own ideas, opinions and arguments using visual media and technology (e.g. story boards, mood boards, presentations, written reports).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5

• Apply knowledge and demonstrating a wide range of design, analysis and research skills required to address fashion design challenges; workshop and production processes.
• Integrate principles and functions of business management within the clothing industry.
• Manage and utilise resources to enhance production processes (e.g. creative design, illustration, pattern engineering, garment technology and computer aided technology) and develop entrepreneurial skills for self-employment.
• Interpret fashion influences and using fashion techniques, principles and processes to design and produce garments and apparel of international quality standards and exhibited as a portfolio of practical work.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6

• Applying scientific knowledge and principles to conduct fashion related research.
• Implementing ethics to ensure credible and professional behaviour.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

Assessment of modules in the Advanced Diploma in Fashion are in accordance with the assessment policy of the institution. The learning guides for the modules contain the module intended outcomes and assessment criteria which must be satisfied in order to pass.

Types of tests/assignments/projects/case studies

• Individual assignments.
• Practical evaluation.
• Presentations.
• Projects.
• Continuous assessment.
• Portfolio presentation.
• Group/Peer and individual critiques.
• Critique and simulation.
• Document investigation and research.

Formative and summative assessment

Both formative and summative assessment are integral components of all modules within the programme and have application to continuous assessment, ensuring overall applied competence.

Formative assessment will be mainly through

• group discussions.
• practical exercises and feedback.
• presentation of assignments.
• written reports.

Summative assessment

• Assignments.
• Observations.
• Assessment of practical tasks.
• Continuous Assessment modules a portfolio of evidence.