Higher Certificate in Desktop Publishing and Computer Art

Purpose

This qualification has been developed for the business sector - both small, medium and large enterprises. It aims to equip learners with the necessary competencies to perform professionally as a Desktop Publishing and Computer Artists in the business environment with specific emphasis in the advertising, logo and promotional design, printing and retail media.

Rationale

This programme addresses human resource development needs of the country.

There is a growing need for competent Desktop Publishing and Computer Artists in a rapidly changing business retail environment, particularly in the advertising and electronic information design environment. There is also a need for wider access to alternative DTP and computer graphic design learning programmes by students who do not meet entry qualifications into Technikon or University programmes. The introduction of the Desktop Publishing and Computer Art Certificate will provide in this specific need. It will open job seeking doors in specific areas such logo design, promotional design, printing and retail media. Since strong emphasis is on the development of a variety of creative skills using the latest technology and software, this programme will add educational value for enrolled students. Increased equity is achieved by giving students from historically disadvantaged communities wider access to such learning opportunities, and thus addressing ethnic imbalances in the student profile of the past.

The learner entering this programme should have achieved a FET Certificate or equivalent. Knowledge of/and experience in Computer Science as well as Graphic Design is not a required.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The programme recognises and applies the principle of prior learning in various ways. It is structured according to programme modules, starting with the students' current level of knowledge, and adding new knowledge (both in depth and width), learning experiences, understanding and skills. Students are exposed to relevant learning experiences in both formal and non-formal training within the classroom, as well as the real work environment. A specified number of credits are awarded for each module towards fulfilling the requirements of this qualification. Learners may build on this qualification and progress to related specialist training such as Graphic Web Design qualifications.

Students can get access to this programme through recognition of relevant knowledge and skills acquired by

• Occupational-related experience in this particular field.

and/or

• Gaining credits for a certain part/component of this qualification (in another programme within this Institution, or externally in the same/a similar qualification at an accredited education/training institution.

and/or

• An entire qualification after being assessed against the stated learning outcomes applicable to this particular qualification to determine the student's competency.

The specific form of assessment to determine the level of recognition of prior learning will depend on evidence produced by each individual applicant. In case of the applicant not being able to produce a certificate of credits gained, the assessment will at least involve the presentation of a portfolio of practical work as demonstration of applied knowledge and skills.

Access to the Qualification

Open access. The only applicable entry qualification is a Senior Certificate. Since the language of tuition is English, students should be able to communicate in English.

Learning components

Theory, practical application of theory, and experience-based learning (subject and competence-related practical experience in the business environment). Due to the practical nature of this programme, all modules are regarded as core learning.

Content details (Curriculum)

Note: All modules are compulsory (Core knowledge). There are thus no elective modules.

• Macromedia Freehand: (15 Credits).
• Adobe Photoshop: (23 Credits).
• Quark Express: (20 Credits).
• Image Ready: (15 Credits).
• Corel Draw: (15 Credits).
• Corel Photo Paint: (15 Credits).
• Digital Photography: (15 Credits).
• DTP Theory: (10 Credits).

At completion of this qualification, the learner will be able to

1. Understand, create and manipulate from the most basic to advanced level the retouching of computer graphics and photographs.
2. Perform from the basic to the advanced levels the Quark Express Plan, produce and present electronic images and applying them accordingly to different media.
3. Design and print media for poster, magazine and billboard designs.
4. Create electronic images and Internet graphics.
5. Design letterheads, logos and promotional materials for the corporate and business sector.
6. Manipulate paintings, photographs and bitmap images combined with advanced editing techniques on a professional level that is equivalent to industry requirements.
7. Understand, use and apply advanced graphic editing techniques.
8. Understand the physical features and functions of the SRL/digital camera, and apply it to shooting visual images.
9. Compile a portfolio demonstrating techniques acquired with regards to digital photography that is equivalent to industry requirements.

In the assessment the following criteria will apply

1. Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge, attitudes, and skills in accordance with the level and outcomes of this qualification.
2. Maintain a balance between theoretical assessment and practical application of knowledge within the world of work.
3. The weight applicable to theory in comparison to practical knowledge and skills will vary according to the type and level of qualification.
4. A repertoire of assessment methods will be used relevant to stated learning outcomes, both in specific and cross-field terms. These must include assessment of attitudes, as well as thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
5. Learners must comply with all requirements and standards related to computer operating practices in the world of work, including accuracy, presentation, and correct data input.

Integrated Assessment

Comprehensive learning assessment is conducted throughout the programme (formative assessment), focusing on both theory and the application of knowledge as well as skills as applied to specific job-related situations and problems such as "computer artists" where they have to integrate theory and practice. This increases the relevancy of training offered by this Institution, and assessment at different learning levels.