Higher Certificate in Systems Engineering

Purpose

This qualification is designed for technically oriented learners who wish to follow a career in Systems Engineering. The qualification develops a strong theoretical background in all aspects of maintaining and building components of computers and networks. Hardware and software training takes place in computer studios and Personal Computer (PC) laboratories. In hardware training, learners build, configure, install and analyse computers and networks. Software training is an industry standard on individual workstations.

The qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to be employed in the Telecommunications sector, in the Information Technology (IT) and Electronic Industry and in other industries where IT is a key component. The Higher Certificate: Systems Engineering enables learners to master the essential skills required to maintain personal computers. This includes building and upgrading computers, the troubleshooting of technical problems, as well as the operating and maintenance of popular systems. The qualification also equips learners with a clear understanding of basic networking concepts.

Rationale

This qualification has been formulated to reflect the workplace needs of the Information Technology Industry as expressed by its stakeholders. The input has been used to ensure that the qualification provides the learner with the prerequisites to be employed within the IT industry.

The demand from the business world for competent IT specialists at all levels, coupled with the statistics of the National Scarce Skills list for South Africa (2008), published by the Department of Labour has lead to the development of this qualification.

Personal computers are a necessity in all organisations in the modern world. Moreover, personal computers are now finding their way into an ever-increasing number of private homes. Computers, however, need to be installed, networked and repaired. This has created the demand for skilled individuals who can troubleshoot and build computers and has created job opportunities in many sectors.

It is assumed that learners who register for this certificate

• Can learn predominantly from written material.
• Can communicate what they have learnt comprehensively in the medium of instruction.
• Can take responsibility, with guided support, for own progress in a Contact Learning environment.
• Are computer literate.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Any learner wishing to be assessed may arrange to do so. For Recognition of Prior Learning the learner will be required to submit a portfolio of evidence of relevant experience, in a prescribed format, to be assessed for formal recognition.

Recognition of Prior Learning is used for two purposes

• Access: To give access to learners who do not meet the requirements for admission.
• Credits: To give learners credit for some of the modules in the programme because of acceptable prior learning earned through formal/non formal/informal learning.

Access to the Qualification

Access to the Qualification is open to any learner in possession of a National Senior Certificate that grants entry to at least Higher Certificate Programme learning.

The qualification has a total 120 credits.

The qualification consists of the following eight compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, each to the value of 15 credits

• Systems Software.
• PC Engineering.
• Server Technologies.
• Basic Electronics.
• Micro-processors.
• Help Desk Technology.
• Network Engineering.
• Work Integrated Learning.

1. Demonstrate the ability to operate a computer system.
2. Upgrade and maintain a personal computer.
3. Install a server.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of basic electronics and its applications.
5. Differentiate between the different micro-processors and their appropriate application in a computer system.
6. Demonstrate the ability to be a successful Help Desk Analyst.
7. Implement a Basic Network and diagnose and troubleshoot basic network support problems.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in the qualification.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• The basic functions, usage and applications of computers are discussed.
• Operating systems and software packages are efficiently installed and upgraded.
• The various concepts associated with operating system design are explained.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Desktop computer and software problems are correctly diagnosed and resolved.
• Software packages are efficiently installed and upgraded.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• A server and server software are correctly installed and upgraded efficiently.
• Common server problems and errors are resolved.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Basic components such as resistors, capacitors and inductors are identified and their values in a circuit, calculated.
• The functions of capacitors are described and capacitance is calculated according to colour coding.
• Logic circuits based on Boolean expression are created.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• A typical micro-controller is described using a functional block diagram.
• The programming of a micro-processor or micro-controller is explained by means of a flow diagram.
• The concept of interrupts in a micro-processor circuit is explained in terms of its functions.
• Two or more micro-processor systems are connected through a communication bus system.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Information or solutions are communicated coherently (orally and in writing) using appropriate format genre and language conventions.
• General help desk duties are performed.
• A range of customer complaints are dealt with.
• Common reporting tools are utilised.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• A simple Local Area Network (LAN) is connected.
• Network topologies, classifications and protocols are explained.
• Various network management tools are used correctly and efficiently.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated Assessment provides an opportunity for learners to show that they can integrate concepts, ideas and actions across modules to achieve competence that is grounded and coherent. The learner will demonstrate the relevance of the various modules in achieving outcomes of the programme.

Integrated Assessment will judge the quality of the observable performance, and also the quality of the thinking that lies behind it. Assessment tools must encourage learners to give an account of the thinking and decision making that underpins the demonstrated performance. Some assessment practices will be of a more practical nature while others will be more theoretical.

During Integrated Assessment the assessor will make use of formative and summative assessment methods and will assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Integrated Assessment typically makes use of combinations of the following assessment methods:

• Programme Evaluations.
• Continuous Evaluation.
• Practical Evaluation.
• Time-constrained written examinations.