Advanced Diploma in Fashion

Purpose

The qualification is structured so that learners can develop detailed knowledge of an area of practice that they choose to specialise in. They will be able to select and apply a range of methods to solve theoretical and practical problems and introduce change within the selected career path. Learners will be able to develop the capacity to communicate their ideas in well-formed arguments, using appropriate fashion discourse and will be encouraged to explore ethical and professional dilemmas within this sector.

This qualification also prepares learners for continuing their study through the deepening of knowledge and understanding of theories, methodologies and practices in fashion, as well as the development of their ability to formulate, undertake and resolve more complex theoretical and practice-related problems and tasks through the selection and use of appropriate methods and techniques.

Rationale

This Advanced Diploma in Fashion qualification has been developed in response to employers and employees of the Cape Town Fashion Council for the current and future need of competent fashion specialists. This qualification responds to these needs by providing learners with the opportunity to select and specialise in one of the numerous career paths within the field of fashion. Learners will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitude and values to contribute positively to the advancement of the fashion industry in South Africa.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution has adopted the principles formulated by SAQA into the policy; that there should be no repetition of learning outcomes achieved through formal, non-formal and informal learning, including:

• Current and relevant working experience.
• Formal education and training programmes.
• Experiential or workplace learning.
• Informal study for recreational/personal interest purposes.
• Company/industry based training.
• Working with experts.
• Life experience.

The institution applies RPL for access: to determine by means of assessment, an appropriate level of access to learning or teaching programme for an individual.

RPL for credits: to grant an individual access to a qualification at an NQF level that is higher than a qualification already obtained, awarding credits for a part of a learning programme for which an individual is registered on a basis of RPL.

RPL principles adopted by the institution

• The assessment of learning for the purpose of RPL must always adhere to the Assessment Policy of the institution.
• The precise nature of an RPL application will depend on individual circumstances and applicants will be assessed on a case by case basis.
• The programme offerings may be achieved in part through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning.
• The RPL procedure is administered and assessed by suitably qualified and experienced staff.
• Learners who are granted RPL exemptions are monitored for a suitable period of time in order to assess learner success and the effectiveness of the RPL procedures.
• The RPL procedures are reviewed regularly and recommendations for improvement are submitted for approval to the Academic Board.

Entry Requirements

For admission, learners need to have a Diploma (360 Credits, NQF Level 6) or a Bachelors' Degree (NQF Level 7) in cognate field.

This qualification comprises 4 compulsory modules at NQF Level 7, totalling 120 Credits

• Internship, 40 Credits.
• Research Project, 30 Credits.
• Contextual Studies, 10 Credits.
• Professional Practice, 40 Credits.

1. Conduct oneself professionally and ethically in a variety of contexts and take responsibility for and critically evaluate own decisions and actions when working independently and collaborating with others.
2. Identify, analyse, critically reflect on and address complex problems within the fashion sector.
3. Collect, organise, analyse, and critically evaluate relevant information when researching social, economic and cultural influences on the fashion sector.
4. Apply and evaluate principles, methods, techniques and discourse in an area of fashion specialisation when creating an innovative body of work.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Own performance is critically evaluated and reported upon when working independently.
• The ability to collaborate effectively within a team is critically evaluated and reported upon.
• Knowledge of fashion theories, principles and techniques is applied and used when working in context and when making decisions about improvements.
• Conducting oneself professionally is shown and responsibility for personal work, decision-making and for the use of resources is taken.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Appropriate arguments and evidence to address a relevant problem within the fashion sector is used.
• Evidence of a clear definition, critical analysis and understanding of a chosen research subject area is presented.
• Literature is critically analysed and concepts are communicated clearly and logically.
• Findings are communicated using appropriate language, referencing techniques and layout.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Relevant information is collected, organised, and critically evaluated.
• The influence of related disciplines on the development of the fashion sector is analysed.
• The influence of prominent fashion designers on the development of the fashion sector is analysed.
• Social, economic and cultural influences on the advancement of the fashion sector are discussed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• A detailed analysis of the chosen market is conducted and informed recommendations are made regarding a suitable marketing strategy.
• A detailed business plan is prepared demonstrating viability of chosen concept.
• A chosen area of research is interpreted and creatively applied when developing a design product and portfolio.
• Appropriate methods and techniques are analysed and applied to visually communicate an innovative design concept.
• The final product in terms of fitness for purpose, creativity and quality of manufacture is critically evaluated.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment shall be focused on ability of the learners to apply their understanding and practical skills to creatively solving design briefs. Knowledge, understanding and practical skills will be assessed in an integrated way, during the process of the training, and shall be designed to assist them in applying their knowledge and skills to the completion of the practical briefs.

Assessment strategies and procedures should be in alignment with the purpose and Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification.