SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
101559	Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics
ORIGINATOR
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Advanced Diploma	Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology		Engineering and Related Design
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 07	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2021-07-01	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

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:
The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with a sound knowledge base of Mechatronics and enable them to apply their knowledge and skills to particular career or professional context, while equipping them to undertake more specialised and intensive learning. This qualification has a strong professional or career focus and holders of this qualification are prepared to enter in the Mechatronics labour market. The qualification will build necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing Mechatronic Engineering Technologist or Certificated Engineer.

Professional Mechatronic Engineering Technologists are characterised by the ability to apply established and newly developed Mechatronic engineering technology to solve broadly-defined problems, develop components, systems, services and processes.

The Professional Mechatronic Engineering Technologists are characterised by:

The ability to provide leadership in the application of technology in safety, health, engineering and commercially effective operations and have well-developed interpersonal skills.

The ability to work independently and responsibly, applying judgement to decisions arising in the application of technology and health and safety considerations to problems and associated risks.

Having a specialised understanding of Mechatronic engineering sciences underlying a deep knowledge of specific Mechatronic technologies together with financial, commercial, legal, social and economic, health, safety and environmental matters.
Rationale:
This qualification is aligned to the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) Standard E-05-PT.

The different categories of registration under the Engineering Profession Act and regulated by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) are: Professional Engineer, Professional Engineering Technologist, Professional Engineering Technician, and Professional Certificated Engineer.

Graduates with an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics will be able to register as Professional Engineering Technologists.

This qualification also provides the following:

Preparation for careers in Mechatronic Engineering and areas that potentially benefit from Mechatronic Engineering skills, for achieving technical proficiency and to make a contribution to the economy and national development.

The educational base required for registration as a Professional Engineering Technologist and/or Certificated Engineer with ECSA.

Entry to Level 8 qualifications e.g. Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Honours), Postgraduate Diploma and Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) Programmes in Mechatronics and then to proceed to Masters qualifications in Mechatronics or related qualifications.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning RPL is a process of identifying the knowledge and skills against a qualification or part thereof. The process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through information, non-formal and/or formal learning. RPL provides an opportunity to identify the learning and have it assessed and formally acknowledged.

RPL may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this qualification. This qualification may be achieved in part through RPL processes.

Gaining access:
If an applicant has considerable work experience, but do not meet the entry requirements of this qualification, the applicant may want to apply for entry into this qualification through RPL. This is referred to as "access". The RPL application will be evaluated against the entry requirements of this qualification according to the institutional RPL policy. If access is granted, the qualification on the lower level is not awarded.

Advanced Standing:
An applicant might have gained knowledge and/or experience in specific areas when compared to the outcomes against this qualification that might cover some subjects. The applicant may apply for recognition of these subjects and this is called "advanced standing". Once the assessment is done, the institution might give recognition for specific subjects, but not for the entire qualification. There are guidelines governing the maximum number of subjects for which advanced standing can be granted.

International learners:
If the applicant has a qualification from abroad, that qualification must be evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority), Unit for Evaluation of Foreign Qualifications before submission of the application. Once the qualification has been evaluated and the applicant does not meet the entry requirements of the programme the applicant could apply for access through the RPL route based on knowledge and experience gained.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

A 360-Credit Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics, Level 6, or.

A 240-Credit Diploma in Engineering Technology in Mechatronic Engineering qualification together with the 140 Credits required in the ECSA E-21-PN standard: Advanced Certificate in Engineering Technology in Mechatronic Engineering or related field.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification comprises a compulsory module at Level 6 and compulsory modules at level 7 totalling 140 Credits.

Module at Level 6, 7 Credits:

Project Management, 7 Credits.

Module at Level 7, 133 Credits:

Mechatronic Design Project 4, 21 Credits.

Thermo-Fluids 4, 14 Credits.

Engineering Mathematics 4, 14 Credits.

Mechatronic System Design & Simulation 4, 14 Credits.

Research Methodology 4, 7 Credits.

Electronic Devices and Systems 4, 14 Credits.

Mechanics of Machines 4, 14 Credits.

Stress Analysis 4, 14 Credits.

Environmental Engineering 4, 7 Credits.

Mechatronic Control System 4, 14 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies and solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
3. Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly-defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet the desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
4. Define and conduct investigations and experiments of broadly-defined problems.
5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the affected parties.
7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation and the need to act professionally within own limits of competency.
8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member or leader in a diverse team and to manage projects.
9. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
10. Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering practice within own limits of competence.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Analyse and define the Mechanical engineering problem and identify the criteria for an acceptable solution.

Identify and use relevant information and Mechanical Engineering knowledge and skills for solving the problem.

Consider and formulate various approaches based on the Mechanical Engineering that would lead to workable solutions.

Model and analyse Mechanical Engineering solutions.

Evaluate solutions are evaluated and select the best solution.

Formulate and present the solution in an appropriate form.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Bring to bear an appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science and engineering science at a fundamental level on Mechanical engineering on the solution of broadly-defined Mechanical engineering problems.

Apply Mechanical Engineering theories, principles and laws to solve problems.

Use appropriate simulation software (i.e CFD) to solve fluids mechanics problems.

Communicate Mechanical Engineering Concepts, ideas and theories.

Perform reasoning about Mechanical Engineering and conceptualise engineering materials, components, systems or processes.

Handle uncertainty and risk through the use of probability and statistics.

Perform the work within the boundaries of the Mechanical Engineering.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Formulate the Mechanical Engineering design problem to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

Plan and manage the design process to focus on important issues on Mechanical Engineering system and recognise and deal with constraints.

Acquire and evaluate Mechanical Engineering knowledge, information and resources in order to apply appropriate principles and evaluate and use design tools to provide a workable solution.

Perform the Mechanical Engineering design tasks including analysis, quantitative modelling and optimisation of the product, system or process subject to the relevant premises, assumptions, constraints and restrictions.

Evaluate alternatives for implementation and select a preferred solution for Mechanical Engineering problems based on techno-economic analysis and judgment.

Assess the Mechanical Engineering selected design in terms of the social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact and benefits.

Communicate the design logic and relevant information in a technical report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Plan, design and conduct investigations and experiments on Mechanical Engineering systems are planned, designed and conducted.

Search relevant literature including codes on Mechanical engineering and critically evaluate material for suitability to the investigation.

Perform analysis as necessary to the investigation.

Select and use Mechanical Engineering Equipment or software as appropriate in the investigations.

Derive, analyse and interpret information from Mechanical Engineering systems.

Draw conclusions from an analysis of all relevant evidence.

Record the purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation in a technical report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Select and assess the appropriate mechanical engineering systems and software for applicability and limitations against the required result.

Apply the appropriate mechanical engineering system correctly to achieve the required result.

Test and assess results produced by the method, skill or tool critically against required results.

Select and use computer applications as required by the Mechanical engineering discipline.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Submit Mechanical Engineering projects outcomes as a technical report and present orally.

Ensure the structure, style and language of written and oral communication are appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience.

Use graphics that are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning of text.

Use visual materials to enhance oral communications.

Use accepted methods for providing information to others involved in the Mechanical engineering activity.

Deliver oral communication fluently with the intended meaning being apparent.

Ensure the written communications meet the requirement of the intended audience.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Identify and deal with the impact of Mechanical Engineering technology in terms of the benefits and limitations to society.

Analyse the Mechanical Engineering activity in terms of the impact on occupational and public health and safety.

Analyse the Mechanical Engineering activity in terms of the impact on the physical environment especially water and air quality.

Take into consideration the personal, social, economic, cultural values and requirements of those who are affected by the Mechanical Engineering activity.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Explain the principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling.

Carry out individual work effectively and on time.

Support contributions to team activities with regard to the output of the team.

Organise and manage a Mechanical Engineering design or research project.

Carry out effective communication in the context of individual or team work.

Perform critical functions in the team and complete work on time.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

Manage learning tasks autonomously and ethically, individually and in learning groups.

Reflect upon learning undertaken and individual learning requirements and determine strategies to suit personal learning style and preferences.

Source, organise and evaluate relevant information on Mechanical Engineering.

Knowledge acquired outside of formal instruction is comprehended and applied.

Challenge assumptions critically and embrace new thinking within the Mechanical Engineering field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

Describe the nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas.

Describe the ethical implications of decisions made.

Apply ethical reasoning to evaluate Mechanical Engineering solutions.

Display awareness of the need to maintain continued competence through keeping abreast of up to date tools and techniques available in the workplace.

Understand and embrace the system of continuing professional development as an on-going process.

Accept responsibility for consequences stemming from own actions.

Make judgements in decision-making during Mechanical Engineering problem-solving and design.

Limit decision-making to the Mechanical Engineering field.

Integrated Assessment:
A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used. It consists of a blend of classroom teaching, tutorials and small group teaching, practicals, computer laboratory work, field work, peer learning groups, independent learning (self-study), and independent research. Different modalities of work-integrated learning such as work-directed theoretical learning, problem-based learning and project-based learning are staggered throughout this qualification. These ensure that learners engage actively with the material in different ways. The methods of delivery have been designed so that learners operate at different cognitive levels as they progress through the qualification, with more sophisticated or deeper levels of learning being stimulated as more knowledge is gained. The teaching and learning methods are appropriate for an engineering or science qualification. There will be constructive alignment between the Teaching and Learning strategy and the Assessment strategy to achieve the intended outcomes.

An effective integrated assessment strategy will be used. The Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics will combine formative and summative assessment methodologies. There will be multiple assessment opportunities for learners demonstrate the Exit Level Outcomes. All assessments and moderation will be performed and is subject to the institutional Assessment policies, procedures and guidelines.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This qualification is in accordance with the following international accord:

International Engineering Alliance:
International comparability of engineering education qualifications is ensured through the Washington, Sydney and Dublin Accords, all being members of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA). International comparability of this engineering technologist education qualification is ensured through the Sydney Accord.

The Exit Level Outcomes and Level Descriptors defined in this qualification are aligned with the attributes of a Sydney Accord technologist graduate in the International Engineering Alliance's Graduate Attributes and professional Competencies.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

In keeping with the requirements of the Higher Education Qualification Sub-framework (2014) as well as other relevant national policies pertaining to articulation as well as credit accumulation and transfer, the following institutional articulation requirements will be applicable to this qualification:

Vertical articulation within the HEQSF:
Students who have successfully completed an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics at NQF level 7 may gain admission to a Postgraduate Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at NQF level 8 and upon completion of the Postgraduate Diploma may progress towards a Master's degree in Engineering and upon completion of the Master's degree may progress towards a Doctoral degree in Engineering.

Horizontal articulation within the HEQSF:
Students who have successfully completed an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics at NQF level 7 or who have completed modules/subjects towards the completion of this qualification may transfer credits towards a qualification in this field of study or related field of study at NQF level 7 (e.g. Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Engineering Technology Degree).

Diagonal articulation within the HEQSF:
Students who have successfully completed the Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Mechatronics or students who have completed modules/subjects towards the completion of this qualification may transfer credits towards a qualification in this field of study or a related field of study across pathways within the HEQSF (e.g. credits towards a Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours degree at NQF level 8).

Inter- and intra-institutional articulation agreements based on national requirements will apply.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

NOTES

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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.

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