Diploma in PC Support and Networking

The programme is highly relevant to today's business world as it focuses on what is current and in demand. It caters for learners who are computer technology focused, and allows it learners to grasp fundamental knowledge in the workings of various software packages and the modern office environment. This programme also caters for individuals that might be employed but lack the certification to be promoted. These programmes satisfy/meets the needs of learners that are technically minded. To impart to the learner the ability to find diagnosis faults and repairs faults in a computer as well ability to build and maintain networks and the associated software. There has been a rapid development and a need for graduates with this qualification.

The learner will have acquired the following attributes at the exit of this qualification

• Able to repair a computer.
• Assemble a computer.
• Having a good understanding of operating platforms.
• Able to build a network - using various topologies.
• Able to run the network using various network operating systems.
• Able to know and understand programming languages e.g., VB, Turbo C.
• Able to understand the various software packages e.g. Microsoft office.
• Able to build complex circuits.
• Understand how the printers and monitors function.
• Able diagnosis faults in printers, monitors, CPU, etc.
• Able to understand the different architecture of computers.
• Understand web designing.

This qualification will contribute to the full development of the learner with in the PC and Network Engineering Environment by providing recognition, further mobility and transportability with in the field hardware, networking and engineering the skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this qualification are essential for social and economic transformation and contribute to the upliftment and economic growth within the PC and Network Engineering sector.

The unit standards in the qualification are intended as building blocks that will make the learner a more Skilled, knowledgeable, informed, and efficient worker in the PC and Network Engineering industry.

Rationale of the Qualification

This qualification is a continuation of the coursework done at the past two levels. The knowledge gained will be more in depth in comparison to the other two levels. This qualification is for learner who wants to gain more knowledge in their pursuit of their careers in the PC Network Engineering Field. It is to design to meet the current demands of today's business world. Learners will gain far more competency in the workings of various software packages and technical aspects of computer technology. The qualification satisfies the needs of learners that are technically minded, and knowledge gained will be applied to diagnose faults and repairs required in computers, maintain network systems in businesses. The learners who pursue this qualification play an important role in the smooth functioning of businesses.

This qualification is the start of a career path in the PC and Network Engineering. The skills, value Attributes, and knowledge reflected in this qualification are building blocks that will prepare learners for progression along the learning ladder (eg. B-Tech). Such a qualification will also provide opportunities for current employees in the industry to seek recognition for prior learning, gained in the workplace or through other studies, against the outcomes of the unit standard in this qualification.

The qualification enhances the qualifiers access to employment and it serves as a benchmark to employers to gauge the competency of potential employees.

• The learner must have the capacity to learn from written material, and be able to gather information and conduct an analysis of information.
• Prior learning is taken into consideration on the merit of each learner and the unique circumstances of each learner.
• Grade 12/Mathematics.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

The qualification can be obtained by means of RPL. The learner has to provide proof of prior learning through references of work experience and tasks carried out. The prior learning may be informal, formal and non formal learning and work experience.

N/A

Exit - level outcomes

On completion of the qualification the learner should

• The learner will be able to explain in-depth knowledge of electronics.
• Demonstrate functioning of Hardware components - fault finding and repairs.
• Able to perform the networking function.
• Demonstrate familiarity with local knowledge and contexts in performing technical tasks, applying themselves to well defined tasks under supervision, displaying knowledge of technical components, systems and equipment.
• Execute role and responsibilities with understanding of concepts, read and interpret diagrams, apply understanding of the importance of technology within the world of work.
• Communicate with peers, customers and management/ supervisors through utilizing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills to express themselves in clearly written and spoken form.
• Apply solutions to familiar and well defined problems related to the work being performed.
• Summaries, predict and apply technical operations using the fundamental systems, procedures and equipment required when working.
• Work in a disciplined manner, organise and analyze significant information and use theories or principles.
• Calculate requirements and demonstrate ability to utilize entrepreneurial opportunities.

Critical Cross Field Outcomes

• Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization or community.
• Organize and manage oneself and ones activities responsibly and effectively.
• Collect, analyze, organize and critically evaluate information.
• Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.
• Exploring education and career opportunities.
• Reflecting and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
• Developing Entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Identify and solve problems.

• The core concepts and principles of the discipline are identified, described.
• The limitations of basic techniques used in a discipline are appraised.
• An understanding of how information and ideas become generally accepted is explained.
• Appropriate procedures are selected and applied with consideration for ethical and safety requirements.
• Data is collected and recorded accurately.
• Logical thinking is demonstrated.
• Evidence of successful and effective work is provided.
• Organizational skills are applied, time management is demonstrated by meeting deadlines
• Written and oral feedback is provided with regard to equipment and sub standards in terms of specified requirements.
• Problem related issues regarding technology are identified, described and discussed which will enable the learner to identify problems in the work place.
• Maintenance and operation of components is performed according to instructions.
• Areas for improvement in the organizations computer systems is evaluated.
• Reflecting and exploring strategies to learn effectively and be a informed worker.
• Work and communicate with co- workers effectively and efficiently.

Integrated Assessment

The integrated assessment gives learners the ability to integrate concepts across the unit standards to achieve Competency for the purpose of the qualification. Integrated assessment is to assess the quality of performance Thinking and understanding. It is applicable to formative and summative assessment, which is both practical and theoretical. The integrated assessment must enable learners to display capabilities in integrating practical performance, concepts and theory.