SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Arts in Sound and Music Technology

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111823	Bachelor of Arts in Sound and Music Technology
ORIGINATOR
City Varsity (Pty) Ltd
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
National First Degree	Field 02 - Culture and Arts		Music
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	360	Not Applicable	NQF Level 07	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-09-03	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2033-06-30

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:
A significant portion of the Bachelor of Arts in Sound and Music Technology is about learning and understanding the relationships between role-players and being able to adjust and work within the professional context, in the learning environment.

The more specific purposes of this qualification include:

To introduce learners to the environment and theory of sound and music technology by inculcating knowledge and praxis at an in-depth level. This qualification will also allow learners to contextualise new information and technologies within the sound engineering and technology fields both theoretically.

To develop research methodology within the discipline of sound and music technology as well as the ability to think critically and creatively, providing the necessary academic foundation to enable the learner to develop and maintain an intellectual base of scholarly competencies and to allow them to apply this knowledge in a practical environment.

To allow the learner to develop and cement the skills of communication in order to comprehensively transfer information and ideas coherently and concisely, as required by the sound and music technology industry, in accordance with traditional industry related presentation requirements - professional communication, presentations and written reports.

To maintain a relevant grasp on industry by encouraging further study praxis including the concept of life-long learning within the sound and music technology field. This includes developing practical techniques based on new learned information.

To provide learners with a well-rounded and broad education within the sound and music technology field, thus preparing them for a wide range of professions crucial to the welfare and further development of society.

To encourage lateral thinking while still maintaining the principles of critical and creative thinking while still applying these principles in a practical manner.

To foster appropriate methods for problem solving, both theoretically and practically, on a broad base as well as specific to the learners streamed discipline.

To produce learners who understand the principles of, and are capable of critical citizenship.

The qualification aims to produce both creative and academically inclined learners with the ability to think, research and produce critically and innovatively in their field.

Rationale:
The South African entertainment industry, with its annual turnover of over R5 billion, has been identified by the government as one of the key strategic growth sectors within the creative industries. The need for capacity-building initiatives in this area is widely acknowledged and tertiary education within the field is thus imperative to enable growth, development and transformation within these capacities.

This qualification aims to provide sound technology-oriented learners with a qualification in this exciting field. It offers various specialisations linked to current industry career requirements. The qualification is centred on a theoretical academic foundation which can lead to further study, as well as guided practical modules which fulfil an introduction to a professional environment. A large emphasis is put on developing theories and techniques relating to new developments in the music and film industry and allowing the learner the opportunity to establish an informed base in order to cope with technological advancement.

Learners will also be able to further their studies in both the national and international academic circuit with access to Honour's and subsequent Master's qualifications through vertical articulation options.

Learners are provided with a range of conceptual competencies and professional skills for concrete career opportunities within the field - examples of these include:

Post production - final mix editor, foley recordist, location recordist, line editor, boom operator, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) recordist and editor, foley artist, sound designer.

Band recording - mixing engineer, record producer, instrumental technician, recording technician, equipment maintenance manager, live sound engineer, technical/logistics manager, monitor engineer, technical stage manager.

Production and arrangement - Scoring, orchestral arranging, record producer, jingle writer, beat-making, digital music production, remix producer.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
It is assumed that learners may have been performing duties that reflect competencies contained in this qualification at the workplace for many years without having received any formal qualification. Learners will be allowed to apply for RPL for access into the qualification. In addition, through Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) learners may apply for exemption from certain modules.

Learners who do not meet the minimum requirements and are over 23-years of age and who have no National Senior Certificate but have work experience in the sector may submit a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a portfolio of evidence to be considered for admission.

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

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies.
Or

National Certificate relevant to the field of study, NQF Level 5.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 380 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 130 Credits:

Media Communications, 10 Credits.

Professional Studies 100, 10 Credits.

Cultural Studies, 10 Credits.

Mathematic Principles, 10 Credits.

Critical Listening, 10 Credits.

Music Theory, 20 Credits.

Sound Recording Techniques 100, 20 Credits.

Sound for Film and Media 100, 20 Credits.

Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) programming and Music production, 20.

Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 120 Credits:

Media Communication 200, 10 Credits.

Live Sound 200, 10 Credits.

Cultural Studies 200, 10 Credits.

Commercial Law 200, 10 Credits.

Music Theory 200, 20 Credits.

Sound Recording Techniques, 20 Credits.

Sound for Film and Media 200, 20 Credits.

DAW programming and Music Production, 20 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 7, 40 Credits:

Entrepreneurship 300, 10 Credits.

Research Methodology 300, 10 Credits.

Intro to Mastering 300, 10 Credits.

Surround Technology and Mixing 300, 10 Credits.

Elective Modules at Level 7, 90 Credits (Choose three).

Programming and Music production 300, 30 Credits.

Music theory and Arrangement 300, 30 Credits.

Sound for Film and Media 300, 30 Credits.

Location Recording 300, 30 Credits.

Sound Recording Techniques 300, 30 Credits.

Live Sound Reinforcement techniques 300, 30 Credits.

Sound for Animation and Gaming, 30 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate an intermediate knowledge on business operations within the sound and music technology field.
2. Apply the theoretical understanding of research methodology.
3. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) programming skills incorporating production skills and techniques as well as being able to apply this knowledge practically.
4. The theoretical and practical skills in music composition related to sound and music technology field is applied.
5. Demonstrate theoretical and practical understanding of audio editing and mixing skills including the context for visual programme material.
6. Demonstrate an advanced practical understanding of location recording skills including an understanding of the context of location recording as well as being able to apply this knowledge practically.
7. Apply theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of recording, editing and mixing skills and techniques.
8. Apply advanced practical understanding of Live Sound Reinforcement techniques as required in the sound and music technology field.
9. Create and design sound for the gaming environment as well as being able to apply this knowledge practically.
10. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of audio theories, and the practical understanding and application of these theories within the sound and music technology field.
11. Understand and apply the principles of surround sound and to in the sound and music technology context.
12. Develop an insight into the communication, media and cultural situation in South, and Southern Africa, and the world.
13. Show an understanding of cultural perspective in a personal and societal context.
14. Develop an understanding of the sound and music business with relation to its legal implications.
15. Develop a historical context of music in the creative arts.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Apply heuristic techniques in developing new sound and music technology related business ideas.

Develop business plans, narratives, and marketing strategies related to Sound and Music technology field at an intermediate level.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Grasp the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of the area of study by demonstrating a capacity for individual study and present findings both orally and in writing through research projects and case studies.

Demonstrate a command of academic English at an appropriate level within research projects, case studies, and class presentations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Apply advanced MIDI protocol through practical assessments.

Demonstrate programmed music construction.

Understand and apply musical context of MIDI through essay submissions and linked practical assignments.

Learn advanced sampling and synthesis through case study and practical assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of Western Art Classical music conventions and composition used in modern media in written and practical assignments.

Analyse and show understanding of historically significant scores to current contexts through practical assessments.

Understand music theory through continuous assessment praxis such as weekly classwork assessments and computer based drill assessments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Analyse and apply a historic perspective through written assignments, case studies, and practical assessment.

Develop advanced mixing techniques through practical assessment.

Develop auditory sensibility through theoretical analysis and practical assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Define and understand basic location recording workflow and investigate advanced workflows through case studies, written assessment, and practical assessment.

Develop location recording techniques through practice.

Define perspective through developmental praxis.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Develop band and instrument recording techniques across multiple genres through case studies and practical assessment.

Develop mixing and recording praxis through chronological analysis and application.

Analyse, define and apply stylistic conventions in the context of modern recording techniques.

Explore advanced recording techniques theoretically and apply practically.

Manage resources effectively within the Sound and Music technology field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Develop trouble shooting and maintenance techniques through practical assessment.

Develop and refine live mixing techniques through practical assessment.

Define and practice time management and roles through case studies and role-playing exercises.

Introduce and understand neighbouring fields of practice (lighting and AV) through workshops.

Emulate and apply workflow for live music environments.

Understand and apply advanced acoustic theory through written and practical assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

Apply appropriate resource management within the context of game design.

Design sound effects according to a brief and apply it to a working game environment.

Record and design interactive soundtracks within the game engine.

Discern between different designs principles of animation techniques.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

Identify, understand and emulate mastering practise nuances through case study, theoretical and practical assessment.

Analyse and adapt traditional mastering techniques in a modern context through theoretical understanding and practical assessment.

Identify and apply forensic audio skills in a practical environment.

Identify, analyse and apply industry praxis and technical specifications through all practical assessments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:

Analyse and define surround sound principles through case studies and written assessment.

Conduct a practical demonstration of mixing and encoding into various surround formats.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:

Ensure historical analysis through theoretical assessment.

Understand and compare artistic development and socio-economic influences in a modern cultural context through case studies and written assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:

Demonstrate personal development and analysis through theoretical assessment.

Explore theoretical study of societal constructs and related philosophy through theoretical assessment.

Explore the application of personal development praxis through contextual comparisons.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14:

Explore aspects of law through case studies, written assessment and reflection and research.

Explore subject matter and apply critically to current contexts within the sound and music technology field.

Apply law within the sound and music technology field to business praxis through research presentations and written assessments (tests and assignments).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 15:

Explore context and relevance of current praxis in terms of general sound recording practice related to international and national practice through research and written assessment.

Apply accurate collection and dissemination of information.

Develop sensitivity and sensibility to current artistic trends in media through reflective practice and case studies.

Integrated Assessment:
Learning and assessment will be integrated throughout this qualification. Continuous formative assessment is required to ensure that learners get feedback on their progress towards the achievement of specific Exit Level Outcomes. Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement will include 'integrated assessments' which assesses the learners' ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, competencies and attitudes that are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes, either as a whole or as components of the qualification.

Assignments are designed to meet the requirements of integrated assessment must be such as to achieve:

An integration of the achievement of Exit Level Outcomes in a way that demonstrates that the purpose of the qualification as a whole has been achieved, either in total or in the component parts;

Evaluation of learner performance to demonstrate applied competence and criterion-referenced assessment, which is clearly explained to and understood by the learners and that can be applied in the recognition of prior learning;

It is essential that a wide range of knowledge, skills, competencies and attitudes be integrated using innovative methods - and in the assessment of outcomes due recognition should be given to criteria and methods of assessment that assess these appropriately and adequately.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Music production and sound engineering qualifications are numerous in the international space indicating a growth in industry need. Comparisons with international qualifications demonstrate favourable comparison in terms of information covered and skills developed. The qualification was compared with qualifications offered in the United States of America (USA), Australia and the United Kingdom (UK).

Middlesex in UK offers a 2 and 3-year Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) qualifications focusing on music production leaning on music rather than artistic and technical skills in the sound engineering field.

Full Sail University in USA offers between 20-month Bachelor's qualifications in music production, recording arts, and show production, all of which relate directly to the Bachelor of Arts in Sound and Music Technology content.

University of New South Wales offers a 3-year BA in Media in screen and sound, which is separate from the music production qualifications offered.

The University of South Wales offers a 3-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) in sound engineering with qualification material that follows a similar outline but is not as integrated as the BA in Sound Engineering and Technology. This is also a BSc and as such focusses more on the technological aspects and less on the aesthetic responsibilities.

The similarities in these international qualifications are vast with differences being mainly in qualification offerings based on facility resources and access rather than information or direction of study. The strength of the Bachelor of Arts in Sound Engineering and Technology is the integration both between subjects and streams, and the inclusion of other industry disciplines into the learning environment.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Arts in Sound Production, NQF Level 7.

Bachelor of Arts in Music, NQF Level 7.

Vertical Articulation:

Postgraduate Diploma in Music Technology, NQF Level 8.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

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.

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