Tshwane University of Technology

Advanced Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture

Culture and Arts - Design Studies

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to advance learners who can contribute to the economy of South Africa through the visual arts, specifically as jewellers and jewellery designers. The goal is to train individuals who can serve society in a more inclusive and diverse manner, whether through employment opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures. The qualification empowers learners with creative and technical skills such as visual and manual skills in jewellery design and manufacture, creativity and innovation, research skills, and conceptual and critical thinking. These skills prepare learners for careers in the creative or commercial jewellery industry, thereby contributing to the economy of South Africa.

Upon completion of this qualification, learners can pursue various career paths depending on their specializations, such as CAD designer, advanced bench worker, product developer, enamellist, jewellery retailer, artist jeweller, and others. The qualification aims to enhance employability in the jewellery industry by providing practical, intellectual, educational, and entrepreneurial skills that are applicable to a broad range of jewellery-related disciplines. Additionally, the incorporation of both practice-based and theory-based research components prepares candidates for academic pathways, enabling them to contribute to the knowledge base and economy of South Africa through further studies.

Rationale

The qualification is designed to align with the requirements of the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) and industry standards, creating a coherent pathway for learners interested in pursuing vocational or academic careers in jewellery design and manufacture. It aims to support the development of skill, expertise, culture, and heritage within the South African jewellery industry by offering training related to the latest industry trends. The programme is intended to equip learners with advanced skills in jewellery design and manufacture that are relevant to the creative industries in a South African context.

By providing specialized training in areas such as Advanced CAD/CAM, alternative jewellery materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques, the qualification enhances graduates' employability and entrepreneurial capabilities. The inclusion of a professional practice module and an advanced theory module further prepares learners for industry-specific challenges and research opportunities. The qualification also aligns with the objectives of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) by offering advanced skills education that allows for career progression and contributes to government policies aimed at creating vocational pathways for learners in the creative industries.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate specialised knowledge and understanding of a range of methods, materials and techniques relating to the chosen discipline/s embedded in the programme.
  2. Demonstrate an ability to conceptualise and create/develop jewellery designs or products.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories relating to the chosen discipline/s and the ability to apply this knowledge to complex practical and theoretical problem solving.
  4. Demonstrate the ability to gather, process, analyse, synthesise and contest information### develop and communicate ideas and arguments in an appropriately academic register### and show awareness of knowledge as contestable.
  5. Professionally engage with businesses and enterprises relating to the chosen discipline/s with a view to entrepreneurial innovation.
  6. Maintain a professional profile and standing in the industry on various platforms.
  7. Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of accountability and professional and ethical conduct relating to the chosen discipline/s as well as to academic integrity.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Demonstration of specialised knowledge and control of relevant methods, materials, and techniques in Jewellery Design production.
  • Identification and exploration of the expressive potential of methods, materials, and techniques in the chosen discipline.
  • Studio practice showcasing specific disciplinary knowledge, originality, and competence in jewellery design and manufacture.
  • Showcasing innovation, experimentation, and the ability to generate new knowledge.
  • Positioning and implementing chosen practices within a relevant creative sector, industry context, or setting.
  • Demonstration of technical and formal expertise in material selection, processes, methods, finish, and presentation in relation to the theme/content.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Demonstration of conceptual development of source material and iconography into a range of jewellery pieces through creative experimentation.
  • Independent production of products suitable for the commercial or creative jewellery industries.
  • Demonstration of original thought and judgment in creating innovative, marketable products.
  • Display of knowledge of contemporary issues and trends within the chosen disciplinary specialisation or creative sector.
  • Translation of innovative ideas into finished works and presentation of a body of jewellery pieces with an authentic approach.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Application of problem-solving skills to critically evaluate creative processes in studio practice.
  • Demonstration of reflection and investigation when creative problems, questions, and challenges arise.
  • Extensive experimentation for further exploration of concept and process.
  • Initiation of cross-disciplinary connections and exploration of methods, materials, and techniques related to the chosen idea and discipline.
  • Demonstration of awareness of safe working practices.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Demonstration of a deepened knowledge and understanding of theory and discourses related to the fine/applied arts.
  • Philosophical and critical appraisal and contextualisation of existing visual and applied arts practice in terms of postcolonial, post-African, feminist, and IKS theoretical frameworks.
  • Conducting critical commentaries on current debates and discourses in the fields of fine/applied arts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Planning, organising, and managing activities such as exhibitions, marketing, and advertising in a responsible and effective manner within a jewellery context.
  • Identification and documentation of entrepreneurial/small business opportunities with exploration of their educational and career potential.
  • Demonstration of design, technical, and business skills along with an understanding of professional practice within jewellery design and manufacture.
  • Evaluation of market trends and existing merchandising to identify self-employment opportunities within the jewellery industry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Successful management of a professional profile on various platforms to enhance professional standing in the industry.
  • Creation of a visual catalogue (digital or print) of the candidate's work to attract funding, commissions, clients, potential collaborators, or support from galleries or businesses.
  • Presentation of a professional catalogue explaining the chosen theme, working processes, materials, techniques, presentations, and contextualisation in relation to contemporary art and discourse.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Demonstration of ethical academic conduct regarding plagiarism and the development of original arguments.
  • Awareness of the importance of accountability, professional and ethical conduct, engagement with industry, and social and ecological impact of choices.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Use of various formative and summative assessments such as portfolio assessment, practical workbook assessment, project assessment, written assignments, tests, and examinations.
  • Fair, valid, and reliable assessment practices ensuring no learner is disadvantaged, with open and transparent assessment methods.
  • Continuous assessment through face-to-face contact, portfolios, written assignments, tests, case studies, peer evaluations, and competency assessments.
  • Regular analysis of student performance data to identify areas for improvement and intervention.

Qualification Details

Type
Advanced Diploma
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Tshwane University of Technology
Description
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is a higher education institution located in Pretoria, South Africa. It was established in 2004 through the merger of three separate institutions. TUT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of study, including engineering, business, science, arts, and technology. The university is known for its focus on practical and career-oriented education, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen professions. TUT also has a strong emphasis on research and innovation, contributing to the development of new technologies and solutions. With a diverse student body and state-of-the-art facilities, Tshwane University of Technology is committed to providing quality education and making a positive impact on society.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.