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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Archives and Records Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
115315  Postgraduate Diploma in Archives and Records Management 
ORIGINATOR
University of Fort Hare 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Information Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  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 produce skilled work force with expected professional ethics and background knowledge in the history, theory and practice of archives and records keeping.

Learners will be able to gain the following:
  • Good knowledge and practical experience regarding the creation and maintenance of current and semi-current records irrespective of format.
  • Knowledge of the management of archives and the applications of such knowledge to archives in any environment.
  • Knowledge of and excellent practical skills in the application of cutting edge information and communication technologies to the management of archives and records.
  • Knowledge of the principles and techniques of preservation and conservation and their implementation in diverse environments.
  • Knowledge of the research process and its application to understanding or solving professional specific problems or qualifications.
  • An understanding of legal issues pertaining to archives and records.

    This qualification will enable the qualifying learner to secure employment in any area of archives and/or records management or attain the capacity to pursue higher studies in this discipline.

    Rationale:
    National demand for the records managers and archivists with strong technology skills. Research Focus (2010:102) reports that the national and provincial archival services are not sufficiently keeping up with new technological developments. For example, in a survey study that was conducted in South Africa, employers indicated shortages of skills in film, video and sound preservation and especially archivists with skills in digitisation, scanning, colour correction, and other detailed technical work. In addition, Research Focus (2010:102) report indicates that the archival function needs to be re-established in some of the provinces where it has collapsed.

    However, due to the scarcity of resources and skilled work force in the sector the qualification is not sufficiently keeping up with the technological trend. Put differently internally learners are not exposed to the practical sessions like how to engage in digitisation projects, use high-resolution scanners, digital cameras, engage in conservation activities; and develop records management qualification.

    Recognised professional body is known as the South African Society of Archivists (SASA). The department subscribes to the institutional membership. Conferences are held bi-annually.

    Most of the learners have completed their four-year Bachelor Degree, including Library and Information Science (LIS) degree. Ultimately, learners should qualify to work as Records Managers and Archivists.

    This qualification seeks to empower skilled work force in line with the demands of the market. Increased compliance in good record keeping strategies and thus meet the needs of the National Archives Act of South Africa (NARSA) and Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    This qualification may be accessed or obtained through RPL in accordance with the Institution's policy. Applications for RPL shall be submitted to the Faculty Manager for pre-screening by the Faculty RPL Committee.

    The assessment involves the process of collecting evidence and making judgements about the knowledge, skills that shall prove competence and shall articulate the outcomes of a desired module/course or qualification.

    The assessment process shall abide by the assessment, moderation and reporting procedures that constitute the University of Fort Hare (UFH) rules and regulation of the assessment of learning.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirements for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor degree in related field, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Relevant Advanced Diploma, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    N 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 186 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 160 Credits:
  • History and Theory of Archives, 26 Credits.
  • Archives Administration, 26 Credits.
  • Records Management, 26 Credits.
  • Management Studies, 26 Credits.
  • Conservation and Preservation, 26 Credits.
  • Internship, 30 Credits.

    Foundational Module, 26 Credits:
  • Computer Literacy, 26 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 8, 26 Credits (Choose one):
  • Advanced Information Technology, 26 Credits.
  • Systems Analysis and Design, 26 Credits.
  • Archives and Development, 26 Credits.
  • Information Technology and Archives, 26 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Manage paper-based and electronic-records of records management and archival management offices following policies and practices as stipulated in the Acts and International Standards.
    2. Manage digitisation and curation projects. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply knowledge on how to develop a records management programme.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the classification policy.
  • Develop a file plan; retention and disposal policy; workflow policy; support and security policy; legislative framework; national and international standards; digitisation and preservation policy; electronic records management policy and other important records management and archival management policies in line with the trend.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply knowledge on how to engage in and manage digitisation and curation projects.

    Integrated Assessment:
    For formative assessment, learners are given assignment projects that exposes them to the practical world like digitisation projects, compilation of file plans, archival finding aids and how to engage in preservation and conservation activities. The aim is to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Formative assessment entails continuous assessment through tests and assignment project that are learner-centred. Learners work on group or team assignments, do independent research and also do oral presentations in class.

    Summative assessment entails 3 hour examination.

    Internship or work exposure to allow learners gain practical experience in a records management office or archival office of their choice. Evaluation of internship reports and written submissions must be provided. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Curtin University (Australia).
    Qualification Name: Graduate Diploma in Records Management and Archives.

    Duration.
    One year full-time or equivalent part-time study.

    Entry Requirements:
    Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate.
    Credit for Recognised Prior Learning.

    Professional Recognition:
    Records and Information Management Professional Australasia; Australian Society of Archivists.

    Credit for Recognised Learning:
    Applications for credit towards a course are assessed on an individual basis.
    It reduces the amount of learning required to complete the course. It may be granted for formal education qualifications, non-formal learning from non-award programs of study and informal learning through work experiences.
    Credit is awarded to all types of learners, for all types of study or work experience including: Technical and Further Education (TAFE); undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees; units or subjects from tertiary institutions; relevant work and life experience.

    Course structure and Credits:
    1st Semester Modules:
    Technologies for Information Services (3 hours and 25 Credits)
    Information Design (3/25).
    Recordkeeping Concepts and Practice (3/25).
    Information Literacy (2/25).
    2nd Semester Modules.
    Archives Concepts and Practice (3/25).
    Enterprise Content Management (3/25).
    Conservation and Preservation (3/25).
    Management of Information Services (3/25).
    Three-week fieldwork component.

    Credits:
    200.

    Course learning outcomes:
  • Understand theoretical and professional practical underpinnings of records management and archives.
  • To be able to generate innovative solutions to records management and archival issues including conservation and preservation.
  • Understand the nature of information and how information is created, organised, distributed and used in the records and archives sectors.
  • To apply best practice in servicing the needs of information users.
  • To understand emerging technologies on the work of the records management and archives professionals.
  • To be able to apply relevant international standards, tools and practices to the professional practice of records management and archives.

    University of Dundee (United Kingdom):
    Qualification Name: Postgraduate Diploma in Archives and Records Management.

    Duration:
    One year full-time or equivalent part-time study.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate.
  • Credit for Recognised Prior Learning.

    Professional Recognition:
    Archives and Records Association UK and Ireland; Records and Information Management Professional Australia.

    Credit for Recognised Learning:
    Not indicated.

    Course structure and credits:
    1st Semester Modules:
    Combines four (4) core modules and wide choice of optional modules. The aim is to develop student expertise in areas as diverse as digital preservation, management for information professionals, metadata and taxonomies, Latin and Palaeography.
    Modules include:
    The Theory and Context of Recordkeeping.
    Archive Management, Principles and Practice; Archive Services, Access & Preservation; Principles and Practice of Records Management.
    Optional modules (with a total of 40 Credits).
    Additional optional visits to Archives.

    Credits:
    120

    Course learning outcomes:
  • Professional education in the theory and practice of archives and records management.
  • In-depth knowledge of the management of archives and the ability to apply this knowledge in a range of sectors.
  • Ability to create and manage current and semi-current records.
  • An awareness of the legal and ethical issues relating to archives and records management.
  • Skills in managing and preserving records in a variety of media including audio-visual and electronic records.
  • An understanding of record-keeping practices and traditions.
  • Transferable skills such as advocacy, management and communication skills.
  • The opportunity to develop research skills and expertise in preparation of the Master's Degree.

    Associated assessment criteria:
    No exams, continuous assessment through tasks, essays and reports.

    These international qualifications from Australia and UK provides a valid comparison in terms of amongst others credits, course content, duration, entry requirements and learning outcomes. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Library and Information Science Honours, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Archives and Records Management, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    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.
     
    1. University of Fort Hare 


    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.