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: 

National Certificate: Mechatronics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
22770  National Certificate: Mechatronics 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was MERSETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  140  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 0160/05  2006-11-07  2009-07-29 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-07-29   2013-07-29  

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
67629  National Certificate: Mechatronics  Level 2  NQF Level 02  142  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners, education providers, training providers and employers with the standard and range of learning required to work effectively in the mechatronics environment and meet the challenges of such an environment.

The primary skills that are recognised by this qualification include the ability to:
  • Construct simple parts within given tolerances
  • Install, test and maintain basic electrical circuits
  • Construct and test electronic circuits

    These capabilities require an understanding of basic electrical and electronic theory, engineering drawings and electrical circuit diagrams and concepts of measurement, and an ability to join engineering materials, use tools and use a computer. Hand skills play a large role in this qualification.

    Qualifying learners will be able to relate what they see and experience to science and technology principles and concepts.

    What learners achieve in this qualification will also serve as a basis for further learning where they will engage more directly in the installation, maintenance and commissioning of mechatronic systems.


    Rationale for the qualification:

    The manufacturing industry is characterised by technologically sophisticated automation processes using Computerised Integrated Manufacturing systems (CIM) that integrate the fields of mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering and control and information technology. The field of mechatronics deals with the installation, maintenance and commissioning of such CIM systems that must conform to all safety aspects as per regulations and legislation. People working in the mechatronics field require specialised technical skills and knowledge as well as highly developed hand skills to enable them to install, maintain and commission mechatronic systems.

    This is the first qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in mechatronics. This series reflects the skills, knowledge and understanding required to perform effectively in industry, whether in micro, small, medium or large enterprises.

    For those who have been in the workplace for a long time, this qualification represents part of the RPL process that acknowledges workplace skills acquired without the benefit of formal education and training. For the new entrant, this qualification recognises the applied competence needed by a productive person in a structured workplace.

    This qualification forms the basis for further learning in the field of mechatronics. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    This qualification assumes learners have a GETC at NQF level 1 or alternatively, ABET qualifications.

    The qualifications must include:
  • Literacy
  • Numeracy
  • Basic concepts of science and technology


    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification may be obtained through the process of RPL. The learner should be thoroughly briefed prior to the assessment and support provided to assist in the process of developing a portfolio. While this is primarily a work-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit level outcomes. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    N/A 

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Exit Level Outcomes:

    1. Demonstrate an understanding of basic mechanical engineering in the joining and assembly of parts and in mechanical installations meeting quality requirements and working safely and in an environmentally aware manner.

    2. Demonstrate an understanding of basic electrical/electronic engineering theory and the ability to install electrical and electronic components in a circuit that meets quality requirements, working in a safe and environmentally aware manner.

    3. Demonstrate an ability to generate and retrieve files and store information and an understanding of the logic of using different paths for retrieving files using personal computers.

    4. Recognise and respond to routine problems related to the assembly of components and the construction of circuits.

    5. Communicate with peers and members of supervisory/management levels by demonstrating the ability to summarise information and express opinions on given information in spoken and written form.

    6. Demonstrate an understanding of options for further learning in this or a related field of learning and preparation requirements for such learning. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:

    1.1 Assemblies meet specifications
    1.2 Safe working practices are adhered to
    1.3 Working drawings and instructions are interpreted correctly
    1.4 Appropriate materials and tools are selected
    1.5 Tools, equipment and materials are correctly stored upon completion of assembly activity
    1.6 Can respond to questions and discuss issues related to the assembly of mechanical components

    2.1 Appropriate components are selected
    2.2 Safe working practices are adhered to
    2.3 Cable installation meets quality standards
    2.4 Electrical safety practices are adhered to
    2.5 Testing and measurement procedures are followed correctly
    2.6 Electrical and electronic circuits function to specifications
    2.7 Can respond to questions and discuss issues related to the construction of electrical and electronic diagrams

    3.1 Can respond to questions and discuss issues related to computer hardware and software
    3.2 Can generate, save and retrieve documents within a computer system

    4.1 Various options are considered before a solution is chosen
    4.2 Lessons learnt in previous performances are used
    4.3 Responses are appropriate to the nature of the problem
    4.4 Problems are accurately reported to relevant personnel in a timely manner
    4.5 Can respond to questions and discuss issues related to routine problems encountered while working

    5.1 Communication is regular and ongoing
    5.2 Information is clear and accurate and conveyed in a timely manner
    5.3 Relationships with peers and supervisory/management levels are established and functioning

    6.1 Options are explained
    6.2 Preparation requirements are explained.
    6.3 Learning plan is developed


    Integrated Assessment:

    The integrated assessment must be based on a summative assessment guide. The guide must spell out how the assessor will assess different aspects of the performance and will include:
  • Observing the learner at work (in primary activities as well as in other interactions) or by relevant simulations
  • Asking questions and initiating short discussions to test understanding
  • Looking at records and reports

    The learner may choose in which language s/he wants to be assessed. This should be established as part of a process or preparing the learner for assessment and familiarising the learner with the approach being taken.

    While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit level outcomes.

    The assessment process should cover both the explicit tasks required for the qualification as well as the understanding of the concepts and principles that underpin the activities required of mechatronics. The assessment process should also establish how the critical outcomes have been advanced by the learning process. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    As a starting point, the series of qualifications in the field of mechatronics of which this qualification forms a part, was compared to other, similar outcomes-based qualifications, certifications or skills standards in New Zealand and Australia. It was found to be difficult to compare the New Zealand and Australian narrow focus qualifications with these broad-based qualifications in the specialised field of mechatronics. Therefore, extensive reference was made to training materials from Germany and the United States when constructing these qualifications to ensure the relevance of the qualification content and benchmarking with best practice world wide. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification has been designed and structured so that qualifying learners can move from one context to another. Employers or institutions should be able to evaluate the outcomes of this qualification against the needs of their context and structure top-up learning appropriately. Equally, holders of other qualifications may be evaluated against this qualification for the purpose of RPL. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Moderators for the qualification should be qualified and accredited with an appropriate ETQA and have a qualification in engineering.

    To assure the quality of the assessment process, the moderation should cover one of the following:
  • Assessor credentials
  • The assessment instrument
  • The assessment process

    Where assessment and moderation are taking place in sectors other than the MERSETA, assessment and moderation should be in terms of a memorandum of understanding negotiated with the MERS ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The following criteria should be applied by the relevant ETQA:

    1. Appropriate qualification in the field of engineering, with a minimum of four years` experience in the field of mechatronics. The subject matter experience of the assessor can be established by recognition of prior learning

    2. Appropriate experience and understanding of assessment theory, processes and practices

    3. Good interpersonal skills and ability to balance the conflicting requirements of:
  • Maintaining national standards
  • The interests of the learner
  • The need for transformation and redressing the legacies of the past
  • The cultural background and language of the learner

    4. Registration as an assessor with the MERS ETQA or any other relevant
    ETQA

    5. Any other criteria required by the MERS ETQA or any other ETQA 
    		•

    NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 67629, which is "National Certificate: Mechatronics", Level 2, 142 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  115393  Assemble mechanical components  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  12218  Construct and test basic electronic circuits  Level 2  NQF Level 02  16 
    Core  13136  Install, test, maintain and commission basic electrical circuits  Level 2  NQF Level 02  16 
    Core  13220  Keep the work area safe and productive  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  13238  Mark off basic engineering shapes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  7547  Operate a personal computer system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  9880  Perform basic welding/joining of metals  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  12215  Read, interpret and produce basic engineering drawings  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  12216  Select, use and care for engineering hand tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  12476  Select, use and care for engineering measuring equipment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  12219  Select, use and care for engineering power tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Fundamental  8963  Access and use information from texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  9009  Apply basic knowledge of statistics and probability to influence the use of data and procedures in order to investigate life related problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  12461  Communicate at work  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  7480  Demonstrate understanding of rational and irrational numbers and number systems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  9008  Identify, describe, compare, classify, explore shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional shapes in different contexts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  8962  Maintain and adapt oral communication  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  7469  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal and community life  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Fundamental  9007  Work with a range of patterns and functions and solve problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  8964  Write for a defined context  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  13217  Collect and use information  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  7568  Demonstrate knowledge of and produce word processing documents using basic functions  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  12465  Develop a learning plan and a portfolio for assessment  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  12466  Explain the individual`s role within business  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  9268  Manage basic personal finance  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  12484  Perform basic fire fighting  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  12483  Perform basic first aid  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  12463  Understand and deal with HIV/AIDS  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  9322  Work in a team  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 


    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.
     
    NONE 


    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.