Diploma in Information Technology in Support Services

A qualifying learner at this level is competent in the development of IT systems in a distributed computing environment, after specialising in the following field:

Support Services

Identifies the various types of end users and explore their possible needs. These needs include support in the use of existing software packages, basic maintenance of computers and equipment, and support for the development of end users' own computer applications. Support services will also include management of information centres.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The qualification will implement RPL.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Senior Certificate without endorsement.

Or

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.

Or

• National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.

The qualification will be awarded to a learner who has provided evidence to the satisfaction of the assessors that the stated competence of the qualification, as detailed in the specified outcomes, has been achieved, either through education and training in a single provider's learning programme, or through experience that complies with the stated specified outcomes.

The qualifying learner should have the ability to

1. Analyse and design software solutions to industry related Information Technology problems.
2. Utilise the required technical skills to effectively implement the designed solutions in a distributed IT environment.
3. Utilise the required technical skills to design and implement solutions in data communications, networks and the internet environment.
4. Demonstrate the effective utilisation of business and management skills to bridge the gap between the IT discipline and the business functional areas in industry.
5. Demonstrate the ability to use hardware to its full potential by understanding the technical operation of hardware and to control it on a low level.
6. Demonstrate the ability to provide support services.

1. Modern analysis and design techniques and methodologies are applied in the development of IT software systems.

• Multi-platform environments are integrated effectively.
• Effectively design database structures to support IT business systems.
• Provide solutions for specific business situations.

1. User interface design principles are applied.

• To implement designed IT solutions, the appropriate software programming languages and development environments are applied.
• Software solutions are implemented in a client/server environment.
• Multi-platform environments are integrated.

1. Local area Networks are successfully implemented in a multi-platform environment.
2. Business skills are effectively utilised in the application of technical skills in a IT business environment.

• Management Techniques are applied to utilise IT resources effectively.

1. Computer hardware is manipulated and described.

• Digital electronics are used to implement basic computer functions.
• Solutions for technical problems are provided.

1. Manage a call centre effectively.

• Effectively analyse different human computer interfaces.
• Understand basic PC maintenance.

Integrated assessment

• Written examination.
• Continuous evaluation.
• Integrated assessment.