Diploma in Geoinformation Science and Technology

Purpose

The Diploma in Geoinformation Science and Technology is designed to provide learners with integrated knowledge of Geoinformation Science and Technology and equip them with skills that will enable them to solve related problems.

Upon qualifying learners who complete this qualification will be able to

• Systematically diagnose and solve broadly defined Geomatics problems by applying Geo-Information Science and Technology (GISc and T) principles.
• Apply knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences to defined and applied GISc and T procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve broadly-defined problems in a wide range of occupations.
• Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation in the Geomatics field.
• Conduct investigations of broadly-defined problems; locate, search and select relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, design and conduct experiments, analyse and interpret results to provide valid conclusions.
• Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modeling, for the solution of broadly-defined industry related problems with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with related audiences and the affected parties.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of GISc and T activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Geomatics management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member and leader in a team and to manage projects.
• Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of the Geomatics professional body (South African Geomatics Council). (SAGC code of conduct).

To achieve the exit level outcomes, the qualification is designed to develop the knowledge base, the skills and the attitude of learners so that they can make a useful contribution to the skills base in the Geomatics (GISc and T) discipline in the South African context.

The qualification has components of mathematics, surveying, basic sciences and fundamental engineering sciences that provides a viable platform for further studies and lifelong learning. The components enable development in the traditional discipline of Geomatics (Surveying and GISc and T).

In the Complementary Studies area, it covers those disciplines outside of engineering sciences, basic sciences and mathematics which are relevant to the practice of Geomatics in two ways:

• Principles, results and methods are applied in the practice of Geomatics, including economics, the impact of technology on society and effective communication.
• The study broadens the learner's perspective in the humanities or social sciences to support an understanding of the world.

Rationale

The institution offers a mixed mode of delivery that can address the scarce skills in Geo-Information Science and Technology (GISc and T). This qualification will contribute towards infrastructural development in Southern Africa and specifically in the rural areas of South Africa through the provision of competent technicians, practicing GISc and T as identified in the Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs) document.

The introduction of the Diploma in GISc and T prompted the institution to review current qualifications (certificates) offered in GIS to align it with the statutory bodies' standard for a two-year technician qualification and the provision of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) qualifications for Geomatics practitioners so that they will meet the requirements of the new Geomatics Act (Act 19 of 2013).

The curriculum for the qualification is based on the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC) (previously known as PLATO) academic requirements. The curricula is continuously scrutinised by the South African industry and the SAGC Education Advisory Committee to ensure conformance with the required international standards in Geo-information Science and Technology.

The professional body (SAGC), views the process of professional development as having three principal phases: education, training and experience leading to registration and continuing development during practice. The phases are as follows:

• Phase 1, educational requirements are met. During employment, training is completed and experience is gained to attain the competencies for Phase 2, namely professional competence at the point of registration. Holding a qualification attached to a programme accredited for the category of registration is the way for meeting Phase 1 educational requirement.

The purpose of the Diploma in GISc and T is thus to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing GISc Technician.

Specifically, the qualification provides learners with

• Preparation for careers in engineering (Geographical Information Science) itself and areas that potentially benefit from engineering (Geographical Information Science and Technology) skills, for achieving technological proficiency and to make a contribution to the economy and national development.
• The educational base required for registration as a GISc Technician with the professional body.
• For graduates with an appropriate level of achievement, the ability to enter Level 7 and higher programmes.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognising prior learning plays an integral role in the transformation of education and training.

The Institution's policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is designed to regulate admission of prospective learners to qualifications offered by the institution based on prior learning and experiences. This policy promotes accessibility to formal education for adult learners.

Since this qualification is aimed at learners already working in the Geographic Information Science (GISc) industry, there will be a demand for flexible entry requirements. The prospective learners' existing knowledge and skills will be taken into account during the admission and registration process.

Entry Requirements

For admission to the Diploma in Geo-Information Science and Technology (GISc and T) learners need to have

• a National Senior certificate granting access to diploma studies.

Or

• Senior Certificate.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Levels 5 and 6, totalling 252 Credits.

Modules at Level 5, 80 Credits

• Introduction to Geo- information Science, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Information Technology, 10 Credits.
• Introduction to Human, Physical and Environmental Geography, 12 Credits.
• Map Use and Evaluation, 10 Credits.
• Mathematics, 12 Credits.
• Physics, 12 Credits.
• Statistics, 12 Credits.

Modules at Level 6, 172 Credits

• Data Manipulation, 10 Credits.
• Data Quality and Standards, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Database Management Systems, 14 Credits.
• GPS and Land Surveying, 14 Credits.
• Principles of Map Design, 14 Credits.
• Projections and Coordinate Systems, 10 Credits.
• Spatial Data Models, 12 Credits.
• GISC and T Ethics and Law, 18 Credits.
• Introduction to Programming, 14 Credits.
• Remote Sensing, 12 Credits.
• Terrain Analysis, 12 Credits.
• Analytical Methods, 14 Credits.
• Data Considerations for Map Design, 16 Credits.

1. Systematically diagnose and solve broadly defined Geomatics problems by applying Geo-Information Science and Technology (GISc and T).
2. Apply knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences to defined and applied GISc and T procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve broadly-defined problems in a wide range of occupations.
3. Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation in the Geomatics field.
4. Conduct investigations of broadly-defined problems; locate, search and select relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, design and conduct experiments, analyze and interpret results to provide valid conclusions.
5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modeling, for the solution of broadly-defined industry related problems with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with related audiences and the affected parties.
7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of GIS&T activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Geomatics management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member and leader in a team and to manage projects.
9. Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of the Geomatics professional body (SAGC).

Associated Assessment Criteria

The Associated Assessment Criteria are applied in an integrated way across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Identify and collect different spatial data sources.
• Manipulate and present spatial data in specified formats in accordance with the task requirements, for example, plans, maps, images, charts, graphs.
• Perform spatial analysis to present derived spatial statistical results in specified formats.
• Apply basic survey and/or remote sensing techniques for collecting spatial information by using instruments and techniques such as elementary global positioning systems and/or photogrammetry.
• Use computer systems and software on the Geographic Information System (GIS) workstations to process spatial information.
• Evaluate raw and processed data according to fitness for purpose to comply with intended results.
• Explain and describe the basic concepts and principles in the in Geo-Information Science (GISc) in terms of data structures and geographical features.
• Capture task specific meta data in compliance with the national standards.
• Describe and explain relevant sections relating to professional ethics, values and safety contained in the GIS statutes and other policies regulating the GIS environment.
• Identify GIS related problems and solutions that address own life situations and communicate the results to the GIS community and the world at large using Mathematics and communication skills.
• Identify GIS related problems and formulate solutions and use knowledge of Geographic Information System in such a way as to minimise reoccurrence or inefficiencies in this respect.
• Identify and solve problems related to his/her own life situations in which responses show that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
• Use visual Mathematics and language skills in the modes of oral and written presentations to communicate effectively with the GISc community and the world at large.
• Work individually or within a team/group under supervision.
• Monitor and adapt one's performance.

Integrated Assessment

The assessment of the individual modules will be done on a continuous basis with regular tests, self-tests and examinations. The number of assessments will be determined by the number of credits awarded to the module.

Formative assessments will be completed using an online teaching platform. Results will be available immediately to enable students to continuously evaluate their progress. Summative assessments will be done under supervision and feedback will be provided within a reasonable time.

The number of assessments per module together with the submission dates will be communicated to the learner at the commencement of each module.