SAQA

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.

SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE:

Certificate: Internetwork System Specialisation

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
36140	Certificate: Internetwork System Specialisation
ORIGINATOR
Prestige Academy (Pty) Ltd
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
National Certificate	Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences		Information Technology and Computer Sciences
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	128	Level 5	Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered"		SAQA 0695/12	2012-07-01	2014-12-31
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2015-12-31		2018-12-31

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 is replaced by:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
96715	Higher Certificate in Internetwork System Specialisation	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	128	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

This qualification has been developed for the novice to intermediate Windows user. It is targeted at the user who is responsible for the day-to-day management and support of a Windows 98, 2000 or NT Server/Workstation operating systems in any environment where such knowledge and skills are critical, such as in business, and education/training institutions. It offers a sound understanding of the multitude of features included in these products, concentrating on the navigation of the user interface based on the latest hardware and software available. The practical experience the learner receives will equip him/her with the necessary competencies to start working in any area of the day to day operations of an office or information and technology network environment.

Rationale for the qualification

This programme addresses human resource development needs of the country. There is a growing need for hardware and software specialists as well as technical support staff in the IT (information technology) business field. Students who do not meet entry requirements to Technikon or University qualifications in this particular field need access to alternative learning/training programmes. The introduction of the Internetwork System Specialist Certificate will provide in this specific need. Strong emphasis is put on competencies required by the novice intermediate Windows user. Increased equity is achieved by giving access to historical disadvantaged communities and thus address the imbalances in the student enrollment profile of the past.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

The student entering this program should have achieved a FET Certificate or equivalent. Knowledge of and experience in Computer Science is not a prerequisite. No other knowledge in a specific field is required.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

The programme recognises and applies the principle of prior learning in various ways. Students do not have to meet any entry qualification in the field of information and computer technology; thus recognition of prior learning is not applicable to enrollment for the course. This particular programme is structured according to learning modules, starting with the student`s current level of knowledge, and adding new knowledge and learning experiences (both in depth and width). A specific number of credits are allocated to each individual module towards fulfilling the requirements at the exit point of the this qualification. Recognition of prior learning is also given by credits gained through completing relevant computer literacy programs at other institutions, or as part of other programmes offered by this Institution.

Students can get access to this programme through recognition of relevant knowledge and skills acquired by:

Occupational-related experience in this particular field, and/or

Gaining credits for a certain part/component of this qualification (in another programme within this Institution, or externally in the same/a similar qualification at an accredited education/training institution; and/or

An entire qualification

after being assessed against the stated learning outcomes applicable to this particular qualification to determine the student`s competency.

The specific form of assessment to determine the level of recognition of prior learning will depend on evidence produced by each individual applicant. In case of the applicant not being able to produce a certificate of credits gained, the assessment will at least involve the presentation of a portfolio of practical work as demonstration of applied knowledge and skills.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

N/A

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

At completion of this qualification, the learner will be able to:-

For A+ (Computer Technician)

Apply Installation, Configuration and Upgrading of systems (PC`s).

Perform diagnostics and troubleshooting features.

Perform Preventative Maintenance on various products, devices and implement different procedures.

Identify various types of motherboards, their components and architecture as well as Processors and Memory components and their architecture.

Identify basic concepts, printer operations and printer components.

Identify basic networking concepts, including how a network works and the ramifications of repairs thereof.

For Network + (Network Technician)

Following on the A+ course the N+ is designed to qualify the student as a Network Technician, both in practice and in theory, covering network fundamentals.

Knowledge about Networking Technologies such as the definitions of a protocol, the OSI model, and the concept of network design and implementation - such as which items are required for a network and the prerequisites for installation will also be obtained.

In addition it covers troubleshooting concepts, Network support, Network implementations, and prepares the student to work on a very wide range of networks and on different operating system platforms.

For I-Net + (Internet Networking Technician)

In conjunction with the A+ and the N+ course the Internet Networking course once again is an extension on the N+ course giving the student extra information and knowledge pertaining to Networks, but just on a wider scale.

An Internet Networking Technician will also be able to implement and maintain Internet, Intranet and extranet infrastructures and services as well as development of Internet design.

The student will also be able set the baseline for him/herself in starting of on the path to Internet and Networking Information Technology.

One of the key elements that a learner will receive out of this course is good understanding and knowledge of all the basic terminologies pertaining to the Internet, Intranets and Extranets.

The student will also be covering the basic troubleshooting concepts related to the Internet, both hardware and software, and also learn about the business side of the internet.

For Server + (Server Hardware Specialist)

The Server + will provide the student with an industry-wide knowledge of Server Hardware.

The student will receive the skills and knowledge to be able to troubleshoot and support networked servers.

A Server Hardware Specialist is what the learner will be qualified as at the end of the course, and will be able to solve problems and ensure that servers are functional and applications remain available.

The student will also be able to plan a network and install, configure, and maintain a server.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

In the assessment the following criteria will apply:

Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge, attitudes, and skills in accordance with the level and outcomes of this qualification.

Maintain a balance between theoretical assessment and practical application of knowledge within the world of work.

The weight applicable to theory in comparison to practical knowledge and skills will vary according to the type and level of qualification.

A repertoire of assessment methods will be used relevant to stated learning outcomes, both in specific and cross-field terms. These must include assessment of attitudes, as well as thinking and problem-solving skills.

Learners must comply with all requirements and standards related to computer operating practices in the world of work, including accuracy, presentation, and correct data input.

Points can also be obtained towards the MCSE qualification if international exams are written for the A+, I-Net+, Server+ or N+ courses.

Integrated assessment

Comprehensive learning assessment is conducted throughout the program (formative assessment), focusing on both theory and the application of knowledge as well as skills as applied to specific job-related situations and problems such as "troubleshooting" where they have to integrate theory and practice. This increases the relevancy of training offered by this Institution, and assessment at different learning levels.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The student having this qualification will be able to apply relevant knowledge and skills as an A+, N+, I-Net+ and Server+ Technician in any work environment within and outside South Africa. The indicated training modules in this programme are supported by several of the computer industry`s biggest global vendors such as Compaq, IBM, and Microsoft. Similar training is offered at, for example Tacoma Community College, and Xincon Technology School in the USA.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Possibilities exist for articulation to other qualification horizontally, within and external to the Institution, as well as vertically to the next level of qualification within and external to the Institution.

Horizontal articulation
Horizontal link with CIWA. Students who have passed a certain module at another Institution, e.g. A+ or N+ are given credit after individual assessment, thus enabling him/her to continue in a programme offered at this Institution.

Vertical articulation

Students may build on this qualification and progress to further (more advanced) related training such as the ITNIS qualifications. If such programmes are offered at another Institution a student will be able to enroll in that programme.

MODERATION OPTIONS

Moderation includes both internal and external moderation of assessment, based on the competencies and exit points related to this qualification.

Moderation Options

This Institution will apply a system of external peer evaluation conducted every 3-5 years. Suitable experts will be used for moderation of all critical programme components, including outcomes, content, methodology, learning assessment, and use resources (study guides, technology, etc).

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

Criteria for registration of assessors

Anyone assessing a student or acting as a moderator for this Qualification must be qualified in his/her specific programme field(s). The minimum requirements are:

Declared competence in all the stated outcomes for a particular programme sub-field in this qualification.

Detailed documentary proof of relevant educational qualification(s).

Relevant practical training and experience gained by the applicant (minimum of 2 two years occupational experience).

When appointing moderators preference will be given to persons with at least two years relevant experience in a training institution.

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2006; 2009; 2012.

NOTES

All modules are compulsory (core knowledge); there are thus not elective modules in this programme.

A+ PC Technologies: (13 Credits)

A+ Core: LANs, WANs and the Internet (7 Credits)

A+ Core: Navigating DOS, Windows 98 and 2000 (11 Credits)

A+ Core: Navigating Windows 98 and Windows 2000 Professional (7 Credits)

Network+ Networking Essentials: (5 Credits)

Network+ Network Cables and Devices: (6 Credits)

Network+ Network Protocols: (7 Credits)

Network+ Network Operating Systems: (5 Credits)

Network+ Network Implementation and Design: (4 Credits)

I-Net+ Internet Networking Fundamentals: (5 Credits)

I-Net+ Internet Fundamentals: (10 Credits)

I-Net+ Internet Business and Security Concepts: (4 Credits)

I-Net+ Programming: (9 Credits)

Server+ Installation and Hardware Configuration: (12 Credits)

Server+ Upgrading and Maintenance: (8 Credits)

Server+ Troubleshooting and Problem Determination: (10 Credits)

Server+ Disaster Recovery and Environment Issues: (5 Credits)

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.

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.	Prestige Academy (Pty) Ltd