Higher Certificate in Graphic Web Design

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 Graphic Web Designer in the business environment with specific emphasis in the advertising, logo and promotional design, printing and retail media. The programme focuses on creating intelligent and powerful visual communication based on design principles such as composition, as well as the application of design techniques, visual thinking, visualization, and concept development.

Rationale for the qualification

This programme addresses human resource development needs of the country. There is a growing need for competent Graphic Web Designers in a rapidly changing business environment in both advertising and design companies internationally. The Web is one of the fastest growing information technology environments in the world and all businesses are moving towards advertising including e-commerce on the Net. Competence in Graphic Web Design is thus essential in the workplace. There is also a need for wider access to Web Design studies by students who do not meet entry qualifications into Technikon or University programmes. Strong emphasis on applied knowledge and skills will add value for students enrolled for this programme. 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 is not 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.

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.

N/A

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

• Integrate graphic design, animation, and html development techniques for the worldwide Web.
• Understand and apply the principles of conventional Web Marketing concepts.
• Understand Web Psychology and the Internet Mind.
• Deal with Internet Laws such as Copyright violations, Pornography, Crimes against children etc.
• Immigrate from a manual advertising system to the on-line Web system.
• Design and create the correct e-commerce technologies.
• Apply Web marketing strategies and generate a suitable solution to a specific design problem.
• Apply and manipulate design techniques at the minimum professional technical standard.
• Function as part of a team in a work environment.
• Generate creative effects with animation and sound.
• Choose and apply timesaving production techniques.
• Compile a portfolio to demonstrate practical skills that is equivalent to industry requirements.

In the assessment the following criteria will apply

• Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge, attitudes, and skills in accordance with the level and outcomes of this qualification.
• Maintain a balance between theoretical assessment and practical application of knowledge within the world of work.
• The weight applicable to theory in comparison to practical knowledge and skills will vary according to the type and level of qualification.
• 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 problem-solving skills.
• 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. This increases the relevancy of training offered by this Institution, and assessment at different learning levels.