Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Information Technology and Computer Sciences
The qualification aims to equip learners with the necessary skills and knowledge in Information Technology to enhance their independence, self-discipline, time-management, and abstract thinking abilities. Learners will also understand the importance of social responsibility when dealing with computers and computerised information, including confidentiality, security, electronic vandalism, and fraud. Furthermore, ethical and cultural considerations in IT and the importance of professionalism, ethics, integrity, and accountability will be emphasized. By successfully completing the qualification, learners will be prepared for various career opportunities within the IT field and develop entrepreneurial skills by integrating IT principles with knowledge from related disciplines.
Given the skills gap in the Information Technology sector in South Africa, it is essential to align with legislative and policy requirements to bridge this gap. This qualification focuses on producing graduates capable of applying computer theory effectively in business environments, thereby addressing the skills shortage and contributing to the country's economic and societal development.
The following assessment criteria are applied in an integrated way to determine competence in the Exit Level Outcomes:
Social Responsibility: Demonstrating social responsibility in dealing with computers and computerised information related to confidentiality and security of personal or company data.
Electronic Vandalism and Fraud: Understanding the effects of electronic vandalism and electronic fraud.
Ethical and Cultural Issues: Understanding ethical and cultural issues in the relationship between cultures and the use of Information Technology, and relating it to the need to act professionally, ethically, and with personal integrity.
Responsibility in Business Environment: Taking responsibility for the application of IT knowledge and skills acquired in a business environment.
Career Opportunities: Identifying the many career opportunities available in the various fields within Information Technology.
Entrepreneurial Skills: Developing entrepreneurial opportunities and skills through the use of principles and concepts of Information Technology, integrated with knowledge from other related disciplines.
Systems Development and Management: Applying the underlying technology and theory of systems development and management of IT projects practically to solve business-related problems.
Information Systems Knowledge: Systematizing, integrating, and consolidating knowledge on information systems to provide information storage and retrieval solutions.
Real-World Document Information System: Developing and implementing a real-world document information system through problem analysis, system design, programming, and management skills application.
Communication and Teamwork: Using communication and group/team work skills to produce computer IT solutions.
Complexities of System Development: Appreciating the complexities of running a real-world system development project.
Integrated Assessment: Continuous assessment is provided through a whole range of formative and summative assessment methods that include:
Evidence of outcomes is obtained through assignments and projects undertaken individually or as part of a group, as well as short class tests conducted every fortnight. Practical projects throughout the year will assess the learner's progress in their ability to develop comprehensive computer-based information systems and manage the development process. Integrated summative assessment is done through a final group project.
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.