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:

Diploma: Accounting and Financial Computing

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
58667	Diploma: Accounting and Financial Computing
ORIGINATOR
The Independent Institute of Education (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
Diploma (Min 240)	Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies		Office Administration
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	240	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 06120/18	2018-07-01	2018-12-31
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2019-12-31		2023-12-31

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 replaces:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
35972	Diploma: Accounting and Financial Computing	Level 5	Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5	240	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

The Diploma in Accounting and Financial Computing provides learners with the necessary competencies to function in a computerized financial working environment to gain entry into the field of accounting.

The aim of the qualification is:

To equip the learner with a solid integrated theoretical accounting background

Provide specific and applied financial and computing skills to enable the individual to function productively in a computerized financial setting in the business environment at entry level

Provide them with a foundation enabling futher specialization in the field of accounting.

Rationale

The addressing of equity in the workplace environment in South Africa is a matter of economic, social and political importance. In order to create opportunities for individuals entering the job market it is envisaged that employability is enhanced by skills facilitating individual contribution to the business environment in a productive manner even at entry level.

The qualification provides a good business and accounting skills foundation supported by applicable computing skills, availing opportunities for the individual to further qualifications in the fields of accounting and finance as well as business skills as the qualification provides foundational knowledge over a broad business finances spectrum.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

The qualification assumes that the learner is competent in the language of instruction of the provider and that the learner has passed grade 12 in the secondary school phase or have gained an NQF level 4 equivalent.

It is the policy of Rosebank College to recognize prior learning. In the evaluation of qualifications obtained content and currency of the qualification is taken into consideration. Credits for subjects to a maximum of on third of the qualification offered can be provided after the evaluation of the qualification by the following the procedure as indicated:

The registration of the qualification will be scrutinized. In the event of the qualification being registered,

Syllabus overlap will be investigated in conjunction with the subject lecturer. In the event of a positive comparison in content,

The matter will be referred to the quality assurance committee who will,

Decide on a final recommendation and decision

A copy of the decision will be kept on record with the learner`s academic and administrative record.

PLEASE NOTE A National policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning is in a developmental phase. Rosebank College will finalize an internal policy to meet the requirements of RPL as soon as the necessary information is made available in the training end education sector.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

N/A

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

Learning outcomes:

The planned combination of learning outcomes are integrated with critical cross-field outcomes for this qualification.

Practical Competencies

The learner will be able to:

Demonstrate competence at applying of the theoretical principles of finances in the identification of correct and accepted procedures, the handling of financial record keeping and reflect on the application of theoretical knowledge in terms of acceptable procedures.

Accept own levels of responsibility in the field of financial accounting and learning by applying the relevant theoretical business and financial concepts.

Plan, organize and monitor work in the area of responsibility and maintain effective relationships with other role payers in the environment.

Demonstrate effective use of computer skills and knowledge in the execution of tasks.

Reflect on the impact of economic principles and practices on the free market system and the business environment in general.

Foundational Competencies

The learner will be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of the importance of Business Information Systems as part of the management function in the business environment.

Effectively and responsibly utilize applicable information technology knowledge in the business environment particularly for the maintenance of financial records.

Utilize effective communication skills with different role players for the gathering, reflection and reporting of information linked to the area of responsibility.

Demonstrate understanding of the business environment with a specific emphasis on entrepreneurship.

Handle the financial record keeping function for a small enterprise or a division of a larger business concern effectively by applying sound financial record keeping theory

Reflective Competencies

The learner will be able to:

Identify and explain the role, purpose and application of the accounting function in the business environment

Apply relevant accounting knowledge in the setting up, and maintenance of the accounting function in a business environment.

Utilize information for the development, use and application of financial reports.

Apply the relevant computing skills effectively for the generation and record keeping of accounts in the business environment.

Utilize financial know-how in the financial planning, budgeting and generation of cash-flow projections, income statements and balance sheets for a SME. (Small and Micro Enterprise)

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Formative and summative assessment is used to gauge the learner`s performance. Learners are continuously assessed via practical, group and class assignments, essays, presentations, and tests. Integrated assessment is done by means of a 3 hour written examination and practical assignments at the end of each semester.

Learners are expected to demonstrate knowledge and skill through:

The correct and effective use and application of verbal and non-verbal communication and communication formats accepted in the business environment.

Demonstrating theoretical understanding of the principles and models of communication.

The use of communication both for the sourcing and reporting of information in the relevant field of study.

Show a good understanding of the requirements, use and application of business information systems in the business environment in terms of the recording, storing and accessing of management information in a safe environment.

The correct use of mathematical calculations for the financial environment.

The correct and effective use and application of foundational accounting theory for the planning and establishment of financial records and reports, both for planning and historic record keeping scenarios, for different legal business entities according to accepted industry standards.

The integration of accounting principles in terms of cost accounting and the existing management environment as well as the establishment of a business enterprise.

Demonstrate competence at applying the theoretical principles of business management and entrepreneurship by identifying and solving related problems through investigation and the application of knowledge gained.

The effective use of computer literacy skills in the creation of spreadsheets for the creating and maintenance of financial records, reconciliation and journals through the use of excel functions.

The correct and effective use of computing skills and software applications such as Pastel for financial record keeping, maintenance of records and the preparation of information.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role and function of the entrepreneur in the business environment with an emphasis on the management processes of planning, organizing, motivating, control, organizational design and the management of change.

Demonstrate a sound foundational understanding of the role of economics as an influencing factor on the role and positioning of the small and micro business venture, supply and demand, the labor market, economic growth as well as the problems and policy options for developing economies.

Integrated Assessment

Learners are assessed on a continuous basis throughout the academic period and can only gain access to the final formal assessment (examination) if they meet the requirements stipulated for each section of the programme.

Theoretical knowledge and the application of knowledge are measured against the identified outcomes by means of content driven projects, assignments, class presentations and practical work both in group and on an individual basis. This is supplemented by assessment through theoretical and practical class tests and examinations.

The assessment of the programme is governed by the Rosebank College Rules and Regulations.

To enable learners to track their performance against the set criteria, a weighting document is provided to each learner at the onset of the academic period for the programme. The advantage of the system is that learners are fully aware of their responsibilities at the onset of the programme and are fully informed of the performance requirements for each subject and the programme in a transparent manner.

The "weight" or value of each assessment for a specific section of the programme is provided and all marks towards the attaining of the qualification is calculated as per the indicated procedure as depicted on the weighting document for the programme.

The following additional regulations govern the standard, quality assurance, integrity, operational conduct and quality assurance maintenance of learner assessment:

1. Setting of class tests

The language of the papers set for class tests and assessment will be in the same language as the instruction/training was given.

Class tests for individual subjects is set by an identified lecturer at the College in accordance with the syllabus content and requirements of the programme. In the event of more than one class being offered for the specific subject, input from all the lecturers are obtained to ensure that the standard of assessment is maintained. The programme coordinator will ensure that input is received from all relevant lecturers at the sites of delivery. A test bank is available as a frame of reference and can be utilized by all lecturing staff at the College.

2. Setting of assignments

It will be expected of learners to complete assignments in the same language as the instruction/training was given.

Assignments are set at the discretion of the lecturer with the agreement that it must focus on the outcomes and where possible the practical application of knowledge gained. Guidelines are provided in the syllabus.

Lecturers are encouraged to ensure that practical application of skills across the programme is incorporated for example, a Business Communication assignment could be prepared on Computer, utilizing the practical application of both the subject`s content and the content of the computer literacy module in the programme.

In the event of more than one class being offered for a specific subject, input is obtained from all the lecturers by the Programme Coordinator to ensure that the group completes the same standard of assignment ensuring the maintenance of the overall standard of assignments at the sites of delivery.

3. Marking of class tests and assignments

Lecturers mark the class tests and assignments according to the Master Memorandum set for the assignment or test. The procedures linked to appeals and the availing of final results and qualifications are followed explicitly.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Rosebank College endeavors to ensure that all qualifications offered, compares well with industry standards and requirements on a national and international level. This is mainly achieved through input during the compilation and assessment of the programme both during the development phase and programme reviews driven by the Programme Advisory Committee.

The utilization of academic material including textbooks published recently, nationally and internationally, is also used to gauge comparability. Accounting principles as taught by the programme complies with industry standards and the information technology component utilizes internationally recognized software content. The accounting core of the programme compares well with the ICSA Diploma - which is recognized internationally.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

The programme articulates vertically with programmes such as the ICSA diploma (NOF Level 5) and could also avail entry opportunities for further studies in computer and financial studies (NQF level 6)

MODERATION OPTIONS

External examiners and moderators are appointed to validate Learner assessments. The appointment of individuals in this capacity is governed by specific regulations and individuals are selected for appointment against the set of criteria. (Please refer to point 15)

Curriculum Vitaes of the potential candidates are scrutinized and qualifications as well as industry and academic experience in the subject field are evaluated. Individuals are contacted for a personal interview and are contracted for their services linked to their area of expertise.

The qualifications and experience required from external examiners and moderators with regard to this programme:

The selected individual will meet the following minimum requirements to be appointed as an external examiner/moderator:

The individual should not be an active lecturer at Rosebank College.

The individual should have lecturing and assessment experience in the field of tertiary education.

The individual must have at minimum a NQF level 6 qualification, but preferably a NQF level 7 qualification in the subject for which the paper is set.

The individual should be familiarized with the syllabus content and required outcomes of the syllabus

The individual must have relevant practical working experience in the field of study.

In the validation of the assessment it is the responsibility of the individual to:

Scrutinize the standard of the paper in accordance to the syllabus of the subject.

Ensure that the outcomes requirements are assessed adequately and in a fair manner.

Ensure that all questions included in the paper meet the requirements of clarity and that no ambiguous interpretations will occur

Ensure that academic and the application of academic knowledge are adequately tested.

Scrutinize the memorandum to be used for the marking for accuracy of all papers written for the specific subject.

Evaluation context of external examiners and moderators.

External examiners and moderators contribute predominantly to the quality assurance process through input delivered on the standard of examinations utilized at the end of the academic period which depends on whether the subject is offered is assessed as a year course or semester course.

Rosebank College has included the training of assessors in accordance with the National Unit Standards for Assessors in the 2002-2003 Workplace Skills Plan in order to move towards the development of registered assessors as part of our continuous Quality Assurance Management planning.

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

The required qualifications of assessors

The selection and appointment of assessors are governed by the Rosebank College rules and regulations. Assessors for specific subjects included in the programme are required to meet the criteria:

The individual must have at least a NQF level 6 qualification in the subject for which the paper is set.

The individual must be au fait with the syllabus content and required outcomes of the syllabus.

The individual must have relevant lecturing experience in the subject.

The individual must preferably have practical working experience in the field of Study.

It is the responsibility of the individual to:

Draft the paper in accordance to the syllabus of the subject.

Ensure that the outcomes requirements are assessed in the paper.

Ensure that the paper is constructed in a fair manner to test the appropriate syllabus content.

Draft the Master memorandum to be used for the marking of all papers written for the specific subject.

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015.

NOTES

This qualification replaces qualification 35972, "Diploma: Accounting and Financial Computing", Level 5, 240 credits.

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.	The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd