Higher Certificate in Audio Technology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to develop and strengthen the learners' knowledge of audio technology by enabling them to study the tools and processes of media production and creative content development. Upon completion learners will have a thorough understanding of the underlying scientific principles and techniques relevant to the creative industries.

Rationale

The rationale for the introduction of this qualification is to offer access in the field of Audio Technology, a need that is currently not addressed by any public institutions of higher learning.

Technology plays an ever-increasing role in creation, transmission and analysis of music. The growth of the internet has decentralised the music industry and new consumption models created a much more inclusive music industry. Online platforms such as iTunes allows smaller players to market their creative outputs directly and are therefore able to compete with the major record labels. Due to the isolation of these independent content producers and the varying quality of information found on the internet it is difficult to develop professionally. It is believed that by offering a qualification in audio technology learners will be equipped with the necessary practical, business and critical thinking skills that will be required to survive in the creative industries.

The nature of the qualification allows for much more inclusivity as it is aimed at learners who do not have formal training in music. Since learners will be credited for creative work produced, it is believed that it would contribute to a more diversified learner body. The qualification is also future-driven since it aims to address a growing need in the industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where applicable the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) will be applied according to institution's policy on ARPL. The application process provides prospective learners an opportunity to present examples of their compositions or sound design; however, for admission prospective learners must be in possession of a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi or equivalent qualification approved for this purpose by Senate.

Entry Requirements

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Higher Certificate Studies.

The qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory modules at Level 5: 120 Credits

• Music Skills 171, 6 Credits.
• Music Technology 182, 38 Credits.
• Music Technology 183, 38 Credits.
• Music Technology 184, 38 Credits.

1. Demonstrate systematic knowledge of audio production.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles, theories and fundamentals of audio technology.
3. Apply problem-solving skills to challenges in media production.
4. Demonstrate efficient and effective computational skills and to successfully employ digital audio workstations in the creation of music and sound effects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand production systems as complex social-technical systems.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the fundamentals of the behaviour of complex systems.
• Apply the systems thinking methodologies in the analysis and management of audio production.
• Practically apply the knowledge and developed skills by means of designing systems for audio recording and sound reinforcement.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Understand the underlying principles of music performance.
• Demonstrate the ability to read musical scores.
• Practically apply the knowledge in musical performance on a chosen instrument or voice.
• Analyse the quality of musical performances.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate competency in electronic music performance practice.
• Apply the theoretical fundamentals of sound synthesis towards a creative outcome.
• Practically apply the developed skills by means of by producing electronic music and sound design.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Apply the technological aids used in the creation of electronic music.
• Understand the underlying physical principles of electronics, hearing and signal processing.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the fundamentals of digital audio workstations.
• Practically apply the knowledge and developed skills by means of a number of assignments, including the production of audio recordings.

Integrated Assessment

With reference to the Assessment Policy of the institution, lecturers will be encouraged to apply the following criteria for effective assessment: validity, reliability, academic integrity, transparency, fairness, achievability and timely feedback. The application of the criteria, the use of appropriate assessment methods and the integration of assessment will be monitored. Assessment will form part of the information that is used for feedback purposes to evaluate the quality of the qualification.

Learners should achieve a minimum of 50% for each module. To effectively promote learning, assessment will ensure engagement with both theory and practice. There will be more than one assessment opportunity per module. Modules will use a variety of assessment methods, including essays, practical projects, online quizzes and tests. Every module will have components of both formative and summative assessment. Detailed and timely feedback will be provided on formative assessment opportunities, enabling candidates to develop the desired knowledge, skills and attitudes.

The department's internal and external moderation and examination policy that is in place and operational, is applied to this qualification.