SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
121692	Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CETA
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Higher Occupational Cert	Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction		Physical Planning, Design and Management
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 1121/24	2024-01-30	2029-01-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-01-30		2033-01-30

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 prepare a learner to operate as an Architectural Draughtsperson.

An Architectural Draughtsperson prepares technical drawings and illustrations from sketches, measurements, and other data, and copy final drawings in support of architects, engineers, and engineering technologists.

Learners will demonstrate the following key attributes: select and apply standard methods, procedures, or techniques within the field of architectural practice. They also plan and manage an implementation process within a well-defined, familiar, and supported environment.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Apply computer applications for architectural draughting purposes.

Create legislative compliant architectural drawings.

Apply detailing and architectural drafting techniques and calculations.

Rationale:
The need for this qualification stems from the necessity to align an existing historical qualification with SAQA ID 48734 National Certificate: Architectural Technology, NQF Level 5, Credits 120. Based on sector skills plans for the Physical Planning, Design and Management sub-field, a specific need was identified to provide for greater inclusivity and access to the architectural draughtsperson profession as well as increasing the human resource base for the profession at large. The learning outcomes in this qualification provide learners with applied competence in the execution of work in the architectural industry and serves as a basis for learning towards various other qualifications at NQF Level 5. This qualification builds the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent architectural draughtsperson.

Benefits to the economy include employment of previously unemployable persons who can offer skills to several employer bodies, in the physical planning, design and management environment. As a contribution to socio-economic transformation, learners will be able to undergo RPL-assessment, thereby receiving recognition for previous learning and experience. The employability and career prospects of learners holding this qualification will be enhanced.

Typical learners to be attracted to this qualification include both entrants into the labour market and already employed people driven to broaden their knowledge and skills to improve their competencies to practice as an architectural draughtsperson.

Successful completion of this qualification will result in the development of the learners by providing further opportunities and career progression prospects within the building and construction environment or any other sector of the economy.

Professional registration is a requirement for this occupation. Qualifying learners should register as a candidate architectural draughtsperson and perform work as guided by a recognised professional body.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.

Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL.

RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result.

Entry Requirements:
An NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills, and Work Experience Modules:

Knowledge Modules:

311801-001-00-KM-01, Office Practice and Legal Requirements, Level 5, 6 Credit.

311801-001-00-KM-02, Workplace Fundamentals, Level 4, 6 Credits 6.

311801-001-00-KM-03, Architectural History and Theory, Level 5, 4 Credits.

311801-001-00-KM-04, Architectural Design, Level 6, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-KM-05, Contract Documentation and Administration, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-KM-06, Architectural Technology, Level 6, 6 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 34

Practical Skill Modules:

311801-001-00-PM-01, Identify and Select Computer Applications and Software for an Architectural Draughting Task, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-PM-02, Use Computer Applications to Represent 2D Designs, Level 4, 5 Credits.

311801-001-00-PM-03, Use Computer Applications to Represent 3D Designs, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-PM-04, Create All Drawings for a Double-Storey Building, Level 6, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-PM-05, Prepare Compliant Contract Documentation for a Simple Double-Storey Building, Level 5, 6 Credits.

311801-001-00-PM-06, Develop Detailing Drawings and Relevant Specifications, Level 5, Credits 6.

311801-001-00-PM-07, Perform Basic Calculations for Architectural Projects, Level 5, 6 Credits 6.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 41

Work Experience Modules:

311801-001-00-WM-01, Processes and Procedures for Applying Computer Applications in the Execution of a Project, Level 5, 15 Credits.

311801-001-00-WM-02, Processes and Procedures for Creating Compliant Contract Documentation, Level 5, 15 Credits.

311801-001-00-WM-03, Processes and Procedures for Applying Detailing and Architectural Drafting Techniques and Calculations, Level 5, 15 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 45

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Create 2D and 3D building designs selecting and applying standard computer applications.
2. Prepare and create contract documentation that meets National Building Regulations (NBR) and local authority requirements.
3. Develop detailing drawings and specifications by applying architectural drafting techniques and perform calculations for architectural draughting purposes.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
ELO1. Create 2D and 3D building designs selecting and applying standard computer applications.

Identify, select, and use computer applications and software (including web browsers, communication programs, architectural drawing, graphic and image editing programs, and word processing) in an architectural draughting process.

Draw and project 2D views, elevations, and parameters to scale and construct relevant dimensions in accordance with final design requirements.

Display 3D model in solid or surface format, and in a standard or isometric view.

Apply graphic communication from conceptual design sketches to technologically competent instruction drawings.

Incorporate computer technology is in presentation and communication methods for creative problem solving in the context of the built environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
ELO2. Prepare and create contract documentation that meets National Building Regulations (NBR) and local authority requirements.

Create contract documentation for a double-story building (including floor plans, sectional drawings, elevations, site plans) employing either a drawing board or personal computer and is compliant with all legislative and Regulatory requirements.

Apply basic drawing and lettering techniques, basic annotation, and specifications to produce drawings and sheet layouts that comply with legislative and Regulatory requirements.

Use lettering techniques, symbols denoting fixtures and fittings and hatching/colouring for varied material to meet specifications.

Evaluate title block reflects information required and all specifications on layout sheets are to determine compliance.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
ELO3. Develop detailing drawings and specifications by applying architectural drafting techniques and perform calculations for architectural draughting purposes.

Select, investigate, analyse, and apply precedents and case studies from theoretical and physical sources are in the creation of design solutions.

Produce creative design solutions which comply with good practice relating to aesthetics, appropriate technology, planning and functionality.

Create technological solutions reflect an understanding of the practical constraints relating to materials and methods, site constraints, legislation, and services.

Integrated Assessment Formative Assessment:
The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment together with work experience leads to entrance in the integrated external summative assessment.

Integrated Assessment Summative Assessment:
An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the exit level outcomes and associated assessment criteria.

The assessment will be conducted through a written assessment to evaluate both theory and practical skills at decentralised approved assessment sites within a period of two day. The assessment will be evaluated and moderated by assessment specialists registered with the AQP.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Two countries with the most similar courses and accessible information were Australia and the USA, which were therefore selected.

Australia
The Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutes, in New South Wales, Australia offers two pertinent qualifications: Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting (MEM40412); and Certificate IV in Residential Drafting (CPP40121).

The Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting (MEM40412) is part of the Metal and Engineering Training Package. The entry requirement for this Certificate is: trainee employee of draughtsperson in the specialist engineering or manufacturing sectors; or Certificate III in Engineering - Technical (MEM30505); or Certificate III in Manufacturing Technology (MSA30208); or other relevant qualifications.

The duration of the course is one year - full time, 18 months - part time.

To achieve this qualification, learners must complete 4 core units and 13 electives.

Core Units

Apply mathematical techniques in a manufacturing engineering or related environment.

Interact with computing technology.

Organise and communicate information.

Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices.

Elective Units

Analyse a simple electrical system circuit.

Apply basic economic and ergonomic concepts to evaluate engineering applications.

Apply quality standards.

Calculate force systems within simple beam structures.

Calculate stresses in simple structures.

Create 3-D solid models using computer-aided design (CAD) system.

Detail bearings, seals, and other componentry in mechanical drawings

Detail fasteners and locking devices in mechanical drawings.

Interpret technical drawing.

Operate computer-aided design (CAD) system to produce basic drawing elements.

Perform basic statistical quality control.

Perform computations.

Perform engineering measurements.

Produce basic engineering detail drawings.

Produce basic engineering drawings.

Produce freehand sketches.

Select common engineering materials.

Select welding processes.

Use computer-aided design (CAD) to create and display 3-D models.

Participate in quality assurance techniques.

Similarities and differences:
The Australian Certificate differs from the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson in that it focusses more narrowly on the specialist engineering or manufacturing sectors; and it is for people already employed in the field as trainees. The Australian Certificate is like the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson in terms of the content covered. All elements covered by the Australian Certificate are also covered by the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson.

The Certificate IV in Residential Drafting (CPP40121) is part of the Property Services Training Package. The entry requirement for this certificate is: A Higher School Certificate (HSC) or equivalent; or A Certificate III level qualification or above; or One year or more of building drafting industry experience.

The duration of the course is one year - full time; two years - part time.

Core Units

Work effectively in a building design environment.

Analyse building design drawings

Use CAD software to produce drawings for building design projects.

Apply compliance requirements to Class 1 and 10 building design documentation.

Prepare drawings for planning and building approval for Class 1 and 10 buildings.

Investigate materials for construction of Class 1 and 10 buildings.

Investigate construction methods for Class 1 and 10 buildings.

Elective Units

Prepare to work safely in the construction industry.

Draw layout of required services for Class 1 and 10 buildings.

Research architectural styles and movements.

Set up BIM-capable software and files for building design drafting projects.

Produce digital 3-D models of building designs.

Produce compliant designs for Class 1 and 10 building.

Inspect and assess sites to inform the design process.

Similarities and differences:
The Australian Certificate differs from the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson as it appears to be at a lower level, with a greater emphasis on practical coursework and CAD, than other background theory. The Australian Certificate is like the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson in terms of the content covered. All elements covered by the Australian Certificate are also covered by the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson.

The USA
The Glendale Community College, 1500 North Verdugo Road Glendale, California offers an Architectural Drafting and Design degree, or certificate designed to prepare students to enter employment as an architectural drafter and designer in the building construction field, permit technician, and interior designer. Students will receive training in traditional and computer aided drafting, residential and commercial building design, interior design, building codes, and print reading. Students must complete the required courses for a total of 42 - 46 units.

Core Courses (The course prerequisite is listed in parenthesis).

Drafting and Basic Design, 3 units.

Descriptive Geometry, 3 units.

Perspective Graphics with Introduction to Sketchup and Rhinoceros 3 units

Building Codes 3 units (ARCH 101 or equivalent).

Residential Architectural Design I, 3 units.

Residential Architectural Design II, 3 units.

Commercial Architectural Design I, 3 units.

Commercial Architectural Design II, 3 units.

Architectural Drafting and Design, 3 units.

Foundations 3 units; or ART 150 Drawing Foundations, 3 units.

Computer Aided Design AutoCAD I, 3 units (ARCH 101 or ENGR 101 or equivalent).

Elective Courses (The course prerequisite is listed in parenthesis).

One of the following:

Fundamentals of Engineering Documentation, 3 units.

Introduction to College Reading and Composition 4 units.

ENGL 102 Critical Thinking and Literary Analysis, 3 units.

ENGL 104 Critical Thinking and Argumentation, 3 units.

ENGL 100 Writing Workshop, 4 units (Placement test).

One of the following:

Technical Measurements and Calculations, 3 units.

College Algebra, 4 units.

Intermediate Algebra for BSTEM.

Similarities and differences:
The American Certificate differs from the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson in terms of structure and it is at a higher level, with students developing a work portfolio to demonstrate their capability.

The American Certificate is like the South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson in terms of the content covered.

Conclusion
The South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson compares well with the Australian Certificates in terms of content. It is more comprehensive than the two Australian certificates.

The South African Higher Occupational Certificate: Architectural Draughtsperson covers similar content to the American Certificate, but at a lower level.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both and horizontal vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Project Manager, NQF Level 5.

Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology, NQF Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Quality Manager, NQF Level 6.

NOTES

Qualifying for External Assessment:
To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of a statement of results and statement of work experience as well as proof of successful completion of the following subjects and modules or alternative qualifications where applicable.

Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:

None.

Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

The curriculum title and code are: Architectural Draughtsperson: 311801-001-00-00.

Encompassed Trades:

None.

Assessment Quality Partner:
Construction SETA

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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