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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Web Publishing and Interactive Media 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
88182  Higher Certificate in Web Publishing and Interactive Media 
ORIGINATOR
Friends of Design - Academy of Digital Arts 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2028-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This qualification is aimed at allowing the learner to master the latest web and motion graphic, design-related technologies. The learner would be able to develop and utilise design skills acquired in the qualification to produce professional, visual print and screen solutions to suit client needs. The qualification emphasises general principles and their application, and includes a simulated work experience or Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component and technology transfer.

The qualification will develop learners` skills and knowledge in intermediate to advanced web and interactive media design, to produce output-ready works, using industry-standard applications such as Adobe Flash, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe After Effects, Apple Final Cut Pro, web technologies such as HyperText Markup Language (HTML), eXtensible HyperText Markup Language (XHTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and in addition, Word Press with all the essential skills needed to create documents for print and digital distribution.

Rationale:

There is an urgent need for skilled digital and design graduates. The rapid advancements in technology in the web, expanding markets for web-based information and the video entertainment market, including television, movies, video, Internet outlets and motion graphic design markets have led to a greater demand for designers, both locally and internationally. Designers with website design and animation experience are needed for interactive media, web sites, video games, cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other technology. The Friends of Design academy is responding to the needs of the designers by introducing a qualification that will be able to address the urgent skills' shortages in the country.

The qualification encompasses practical exercises and practical projects in print design, interactive design, interface design, motion graphic and dynamic web design. It also pursues theoretical aspects of design, as well as business practice studies in the area of digital media. A strongly studio-based working method maximises opportunities for group work, peer learning and the development of a strong team ethos. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that the learner is competent in:
  • The language of instruction of the provider.
  • Communication at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification may be achieved in part or wholly through Recognition of Prior Learning. Providers are required to develop structured means for the assessment of individual learners against the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such processes and procedures assess the individuals' experiences and competence acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Learners will be admitted to this qualification on the basis of the following requirements:
  • Grade 12 Certificate.
  • Senior Certificate or recognised equivalent. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    All ten Modules are compulsory and are at NQF Level 5.

    Modules:
  • Conceptualisation Techniques 1, 8 Credits.
  • Interactive Screen Design, 8 Credits.
  • 2D Animation and Motion Theory, 12 Credits.
  • Web Technologies 1, 24 Credits.
  • Game Design Theory, 8 Credits.
  • Interactive Techniques, 20 Credits.
  • Web Technologies 2, 16 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 1: Animation, Compositing and Visual Effects (VFX), 20 Credits.
  • Motion Graphics 2: Video Production and Post Production techniques, 20 Credits.
  • Digital Portfolio (DIGPORT), 16 Credits.

    Total Credits: 152. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply and design the processes of a cross media project from conceptualisation, through digital execution, to final output.

    2. Explore the production processes and design and develop safe, environmentally friendly materials.

    3. Explain and demonstrate design literacy, online and in the business context.

    4. Create a web standards-compliant, accessible game for a client.

    5. Produce and present a body of work using Word-Press templates, XHTML and CSS integration.

    6. Produce and present a body of work using Apple Final Cut Pro, Photoshop and Illustrator.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

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

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Identify a need, a problem or an opportunity, or work from a brief.
  • Collect, analyse, organise, interpret and acknowledge relevant information to guide the design process.
  • Investigate different approaches and generate ideas to solve problems creatively, innovatively or intuitively, using a variety of methods.
  • Investigate and utilise appropriate materials and production techniques of samples and prototypes.
  • Evaluate generated ideas and generated improvements and select the best solution.
  • Produce and present a body of work suitable to the screen environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply and provide evidence of the design process.
    > Range includes, but is not limited to: Collage, constructions, digital techniques, models, mind mapping and other forms of visualisation, such as scamps and storyboards.
  • Demonstrate and create awareness of the various tools and production processes relevant to the Adobe Flash and the online medium choice.
  • Demonstrate competence in selecting basic tools and techniques for an appropriate production solution.
  • Present and communicate a design solution in a classroom environment.
  • Employ and discuss the design elements and principles in the final body of work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the theory that underpins the description of design as a human activity.
  • Discuss the purpose of the products, images, signs and symbols used in design.
  • Differentiate and develop the value systems and traditions that influenced African and South African designs.
  • Identify and analyse the methods and intentions of communities and individual design practitioners.
  • Using one or more methods, compile and present findings.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Create and develop a concept for a computer or video minor game.
  • Develop and analyse working processes in a game development team.
  • Calculate the time for creating a game concept.
  • Identify and design an appropriate interface for the target market.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate an awareness of the various tools and production processes of Word-Press, XHTML and CSS.
  • Present the use of mind mapping scamps and storyboards.
  • Implement the steps to produce a hybrid site.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate the various tools and production processes relevant to Apple Final Cut Pro, Photoshop and Illustrator.
  • Conduct an experiment using a variety of methods and techniques in the chosen graphics programmes (Apple Final Cut Pro, Photoshop and Illustrator) to be used in design process.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the tools and techniques required to create content for optical disc storage technology.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Theoretical and practical components will be assessed together. The following assessment methods will be used:

    Formative Assessments: These are delivered in the form of:
  • Class exercises of varying levels of difficulty.
  • Demonstrating the use of particular software tools in the software modules, such as Photoshop.
  • Application of qualification tools within smaller controlled scenarios.
  • Class assessments which facilitate the "building blocks" of learning and test the learners' comprehension of the subject matter as the content of the module is taught.

    These smaller projects are practiced on an ongoing basis throughout the learning period.

    Summative Assessments:
  • Detailed and complex practical projects are conducted at the end of each module to assess the learners' competency in each compulsory module.
  • A further, final comprehensive project is required at the end of the qualification to assess the learners' competence in order to obtain the overall qualification.
  • An example of summative assessment required is the final digital portfolio of the years' web and motion graphic works, delivered at the end of the qualification on DVD, complete with packaging, CV and business card.

    Internal/ External Moderation:

    The academy follows standard moderation procedures and has external and internal examiners who conduct assessments and moderations according to the policy of the institution. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The countries for comparability were chosen for their extensive experience with interactive media and web design. This qualification compares well with qualifications from the following Intitutions:

    University of Phoenix, United State of America:

    Qualification: Interactive Media and Web Design Certificate.

    Students in an interactive media and Web design certificate explore website development, graphic art programs and desktop publishing. A certificate program in interactive media and Web design offers students training in art production for the Web. Students can learn about graphic design principles, computer design software, animation and Web design.

    Modules:
  • HTML Fundamentals.
  • Design Principles.
  • Animation and Web Building Software.
  • Basic Scripting and Programming.
  • Audio, Video and Production.
  • Portfolio Preparation.

    Dublin Institute of Design, Ireland:

    Qualification: Higher National Certificate in Interactive Media and Web Design.

    Modules:
  • HTML.
  • Search Engine Optimisation and Social Media.
  • Professional Practice.
  • Project Designed, Implementation and Evaluation.
  • Interactive Media Web Authoring.
  • Interactive Media Presentation.
  • Contextual and Cultural Referencing in Web Design.

    The Modules of the above-named qualifications are similar to those of this qualification, thus confirming that it is in line with other qualifications internationally. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Certificate: Desktop Publishing and Computer Art, Level 5.
  • National Certificate: Interactive Media, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma: Graphic Design and Web Development, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The School Director moderates the learner achievements internally according to the Moderation Policy.
  • The external examiner conducts external moderation according to the External Examiner System that is recommended by the institution. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The assessors and moderators must be:
  • Experts in the field of study.
  • In possession of a qualification at least one level higher than that of this qualification. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Friends of Design - Academy of Digital Arts 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.