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 Diploma: Geospatial Image Analysis |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
58784 | National Diploma: Geospatial Image Analysis | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
SGB Air Defence | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
The individual Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary for each Learning Programme recorded against this qualification is shown in the table at the end of this report. | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
National Diploma | Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security | Sovereignty of the State | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 251 | Level 5 | NQF Level 05 | Regular-Unit Stds Based |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered" |
SAQA 06120/18 | 2018-07-01 | 2020-07-30 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2020-07-30 | 2022-07-30 |
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:
Image analysis is the process by which information is derived or extracted from any available image or set of images for planning, decision making, change detection, elimination, confirmation; surveillance support activities; reconnaissance or mapping. This qualification will provide a learner with possible opportunities in the following sectors, intelligence, geo-sciences, law enforcement, geohydrology, archaeology, mapping of watersheds and environmental management. The competencies within this qualification could be utilised in either a governmental or civilian context. The purpose of this qualification is to provide the learner with skills and related knowledge in both analogue and digital image analysis. The qualifying learner will be able to: Rationale: Decision-making at the strategic level is dependant on information. Such decision-making could be for agricultural, ecological, urban and rural development, disaster risk management or military and law enforcement purposes. Imagery is one of the main sources of such information. It has the advantage that it can be stored for historical purposes, used to compare changes over a period and the latest imagery can be obtained on demand. Possible platforms that provide such imagery are satellite, aircraft and static. Imagery is captured and stored in both analogue and digital format (the latter being the mostly widely used system currently). The ability to extract information from both types of imagery has become a very specialised skill but well supported by computerised systems. A qualification in image analysis will ensure that skilled people are available to ensure that validated information are made available for strategic decision-makers and for securing the national resources both from a disaster and a military perspective. This qualification adds value to the economic growth needs of the country by identifying possible natural resources in the areas of mining, forestry, and agriculture. Typical learners would be from the mapping industry, surveyors, agriculture, disaster management, military and law enforcement intelligence, scene investigation, and urban development. These learners will be assisting strategic decision makers in their long term planning. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
Access to the Qualification: An FETC/NSC or equivalent. Recognition of Prior Learning: The Qualification may be obtained in whole or in part through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning. Learners who may meet the requirements of any Unit Standard in this Qualification may apply for recognition of prior learning to the Relevant ETQA, and will be assessed against the assessment criteria of the exit level outcomes of this qualification and specific outcomes for the relevant Unit Standard/s. Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution, which is accredited by the relevant ETQA. |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
Learners may choose to complete an area of specialisation within the elective component of this qualification. Should learners choose an area of specialisation, they are required to complete all the unit standards listed within the specialisation: Geographical Services (Learning Programme ID 62649): Military Operations (Learning Programme ID 62650): Law Enforcement Operations (Learning Programme ID 62651): Should an area of specialisation not consist of enough credits to comply with the minimum number of credits required to be awarded the qualification, learners should select additional unit standards from the Elective component. |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Identify and prepare imagery for the purpose of providing information for stakeholder decision-making and planning purposes.
2. Perform imagery analysis. > Range: Analysis includes qualitative and quantitative deductions. > Range: Qualitative includes but not limited to detection, recognition, identification and technical analysis. > Range: Quantitative includes but not limited to image enhancements and histograms. 3. Assimilate and collate imagery and imagery information for image analysis purposes. > Range: Collate includes record, store and retrieve. 4. Manage projects, people and systems in accordance with organisational quality requirements. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: This unit standard promotes, in particular, the following critical cross-field outcomes: > Solving problems regarding image analysis. > Planning and imagery analysis. > Performing activities related to image analysis. > Identify, prepare and analyse imagery for the purpose of providing information for stakeholder decision making and planning purposes. > Perform a variety of imagery analysis applications. > Assimilate and collate imagery and imagery information for image analysis purposes. > Manage projects, people and systems in accordance with organisational quality requirements. > Using different types of equipment. > When determining the influence of image analysis on possible scenarios. > Manage projects, people and systems in accordance with organisational quality requirements. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
1.1 Imagery differences are explained with respect to types, format and origin. > Range: > Imagery includes but is not limited to multi-spectral, panchromatic, hyper-spectral, video. > Types refer to but not limited to spectral range, resolution, software format, service provider. > Format includes but is not limited to digital formats such as raw binary data, Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPG), Tagged Image File Format (TIFF), Bitmapped Graphics Format (BMP), and Shape File (SHP). > Origin refers to platform characteristics, capabilities and environmental restrictions. 1.2 Fit for purpose imagery is sourced to meet user needs and requirements. > Range: Fit for purpose imagery sourced includes but is not limited to platform and sensor. 1.3 Images are pre-processed and prepared to meet the user needs and requirements. > Range: Requirements include but are not limited to image format, rectification, scale, coverage (mosaic). 1.4 Factors that influence imagery are analysed in order to determine their impact on images. > Range: Factors may refer to but are not limited to orientation, characteristics, content and histograms. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: 2.1 Fundamental elements of image interpretation are implemented when analysing images. > Range: Fundamental elements include but are not limited to shape, size, pattern, height, shadow, tone texture, site and association. 2.2 Imagery is assessed in order to make a factual finding. > Range: Assessment can include but is not limited to detection, identification and classification. > Range: Factual finding must be in line with client requirements. 2.3 Technical resources are operated to retrieve information from images. > Range: Technical resources may include but in not limited to analytical equipment, tools, instruments and software. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: 3.1 Assimilation processes are quality assured to ensure that co-ordinates are captured within defined parameters. > Range: Assimilation processes could include geo-referencing, plotting, data capturing, ortho-rectification. 3.2 Computer database are utilised to capture imagery information within a defined format. > Range: A defined format could include but is not limited to satellite imagery, analogue imagery digital imagery, static. 3.3 Imagery and imagery information are stored on computer database in order to retrieve information for image analysis purposes. 3.4 Information is organised and controlled in accordance with organisational record-keeping systems. 3.5 Imagery is geo-referenced for storage and retrieval in a spatial database. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: 4.1 Quality management systems are implemented and reviewed to ensure optimal operations. 4.2 Project management principles, tools and processes are utilised to measure team performance and deliver project objectives. 4.3 Communication techniques are selected and applied in accordance with the needs of target audience. > Range: Communication techniques advanced, written or oral techniques required when working in a supervisory and/or senior technical capacity in an organisation. 4.4 Projects are managed through conducting research in order to yield statistical results. Integrated Assessment: Formative assessments conducted during the learning process will consist of written assessments, simulation in a practical environment and a number of self-assessments. Summative assessment consists of written assessments, assignments and simulation in a practical environment, integrating the assessment of all unit standards and embedded knowledge. Summative assessments is only conducted once the learner has demonstrated proficiency during formative assessment. In particular assessors should check that the learner is able to demonstrate the ability to consider a range of options and make decisions about: |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
The following countries were chosen to compare the qualification with as they embody best practice within the image analysis environment:
It was evident that the core unit standards covered by the National Diploma: Image Analysis Level 5 is covered in training offered by these countries: United States: The Department of Geography at the University of Texas presents the module on Aerial Photography and Remote Sensing. This module introduces the basic concepts of remote sensing to provide the student with the background information necessary to successfully use remote sensed imagery in conjunction with GIS technology. The main emphasis of the programme is to explore the interfaces between remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Some of the subjects contained in the programme include the Basic Elements of Air Photo Interpretation, Digital Image Processing, Satellite Imaging, MSS, Thermal, Hyper-spectral Scanning, Radar (Microwave) Scanning and Remote Sensing and GIS. At the Air Force Weather Agency, essential air and space intelligence is pursued through the application and monitoring of remote sensors to ensure battlespace awareness and decision superiority. Similar knowledge and skills would render a considerable contribution to the profile of the South African Image Analyst. Australia: The Surveillance and Response Group enables the Australian Defence Force to develop emergent Intelligence through radar surveillance, intelligence collection and maritime surveillance. AP-3C Orion aircraft are employed in this role. Radar and marine surveillance are equally important to the South African armed forces and similar attributes would be required from them to apply such intelligence effectively. Netherlands: The International Institute for Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation offers learning programmes in the knowledge fields of geo-information science and earth observation which consists of a combination of tools and methods for the collection through aerospace techniques. The storage and processing of this geo-spatial data is also addressed to enable the dissemination and application of the data in respective specialist services. The prospective studies towards geo-spatial and aerospace techniques in the Image Analyst qualification, would enable the South African Image Analysts to contribute to similar specialist services. France: In Burgundy, France the application of remote sensing and GIS in archaeology, has been extensively conducted since 1978. In the Arroux valley many hours of survey flights have been flown over the years at different times of the year, different times of the day, using different films etc. Aerial surveys and aerial photography have been conducted from low-flying aircraft and several important sites, roads and other features have been discovered. Manual interpretation and photogrammetric analysis of existing vertical mapping photographs has also been conducted. Aerial surveys and photography could be used by the South African archaeological agencies to discover or protect similar historical sites. United Kingdom: No 7010 (VR) Photographic Interpretation Squadron, provides strategic imagery analysis support to the Royal Air Force. The squadron's role has also been expanded to include tactical imagery analysis. The squadron consists of two units namely the Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Centre (JARIC) and the Tactical Imagery Intelligence Wing (TIW). This compares well with the role of the South African JARIC where strategic and tactical air intelligence forms the nucleus of its responsibility. Benchmarking them against the British counterparts would ensure the application of world-class principles in this specialist area. The Cranfield University offers an Aerial Photograph Interpretation Course which introduces techniques for the extraction of topographic information from aerial photographs and digital satellite imagery. The syllabus contains subjects such as Remote Sensing, Geometry, Air Photo Mosaics and Interpretation Principles and Factors. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
This qualification has been developed to provide a career opportunities as well as to facilitate progression to other related qualifications. Learners can move horizontally or vertically between defence related qualifications, although in most cases, some standards will be required horizontally before moving to another qualification vertically.
This qualification has horizontal articulation with the following qualifications: This qualification has vertical articulation with the following qualifications: |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
Assessment competencies and subject matter experience of the assessor can be established by recognition of prior learning. |
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
NOTES |
N/A |
UNIT STANDARDS: |
ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
Core | 119903 | Analyse and synthesise spatial information from maps and other forms of spatial information | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
Core | 116901 | Apply basic Geo-Information System (GIS) raster software functions | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
Core | 14270 | Apply map and related spatial information skills for decision-making in the workplace | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
Core | 116869 | Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of geographical features | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
Core | 116824 | Demonstrate knowledge of sources for spatial data | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 1 |
Core | 116817 | Geo-reference image / remote sense data according to specifications | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
Core | 11725 | Interpret photographic detail from aerial photography for annotation purposes | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
Core | 8559 | Plan and conduct research | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
Core | 244519 | Administer the image acquisition process | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 10 |
Core | 244516 | Analyse an image acquired by an active sensor | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Core | 244501 | Apply image analysis methodology | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Core | 244539 | Apply image analysis techniques | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Core | 244537 | Collate information into a structured image analysis report | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 2 |
Core | 117468 | Conduct planning, briefing and debriefing sessions | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 3 |
Core | 116828 | Demonstrate a basic understanding of geographical space and spatial relationships | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Core | 114049 | Demonstrate an understanding of Computer Database Management Systems | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 7 |
Core | 116831 | Demonstrate an understanding of the capabilities of Geo-Information Systems | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 7 |
Core | 116874 | Demonstrate basic understanding of GIS vector data structures for data acquisition | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 3 |
Core | 116823 | Disseminate spatial data | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 2 |
Core | 244515 | Explain the principles of imagery sensor operations | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Core | 242879 | Facilitate integrated development planning processes | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Core | 244517 | Manipulate digital image data | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 3 |
Core | 244511 | Perform scaling and mensuration of vertical and oblique aerial images | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Core | 116821 | Prepare a satellite imagery | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 10 |
Core | 244505 | Process and prepare a digital image | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Core | 244503 | Produce a digital and analogue mosaic | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Core | 11778 | Investigate and interpret the theory relating to remote sensing including aerial cameras | Level 6 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6 | 7 |
Fundamental | 242714 | Apply elementary statistical methods | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 5 |
Fundamental | 15237 | Build teams to meet set goals and objectives | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 3 |
Fundamental | 15225 | Identify and interpret related legislation and its impact on the team, department or division and ensure compliance | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Fundamental | 15230 | Monitor team members and measure effectiveness of performance | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Fundamental | 110526 | Plan, organise, implement and control record-keeping systems | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Fundamental | 15220 | Set, monitor and measure the achievement of goals and objectives for a team, department or division within an organisation | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Fundamental | 10147 | Supervise a project team of a technical project to deliver project objectives | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 14 |
Fundamental | 12433 | Use communication techniques effectively | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Elective | 116819 | Apply basic Geographic Information System (GIS) vector software functions | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
Elective | 244513 | Analyse ground based air defence environment applicable to image analysis | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
Elective | 244509 | Analyse the effects of damage on imagery | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 5 |
Elective | 14274 | Apply basic photogrammetric compilation principles for map production | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 6 |
Elective | 15234 | Apply efficient time management to the work of a department/division/section | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Elective | 7876 | Conduct on-the-Job-Training | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 8 |
Elective | 115753 | Conduct outcomes-based assessment | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 15 |
Elective | 244529 | Demonstrate an understanding of ground based forces and CCD principles | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 15 |
Elective | 244543 | Demonstrate an understanding of infrastructure | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 15 |
Elective | 117985 | Demonstrate an understanding of the Law of Armed Conflict during multi-national operations | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 10 |
Elective | 244541 | Demonstrate an understanding of the maritime and airward environment | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 10 |
Elective | 118027 | Demonstrate an understanding of the planning process at the operational level | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 13 |
Elective | 120044 | Demonstrate knowledge of Airpower | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 5 |
Elective | 120492 | Demonstrate the application of performance management | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 6 |
Elective | 120046 | Demonstrate understanding of the military intelligence environment | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 20 |
Elective | 15224 | Empower team members through recognising strengths, encouraging participation in decision making and delegating tasks | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Elective | 14275 | Operate a geographical information system and components thereof | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 6 |
Elective | 116834 | Perform spatial analysis under supervision | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 4 |
Elective | 120487 | Use firearms in a military and law enforcement environment | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 12 |
LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
LP ID | Learning Programme Title | Originator | Pre-2009 NQF Level |
NQF Level | Min Credits | Learning Prog End Date | Quality AssuranceFunctionary |
NQF Sub-Framework |
62649 | National Diploma: Geospatial Image Analysis: Geographical Services | Generic Provider - Field 08 | Level 5 | Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5 | 251 | SAS SETA | OQSF | |
62651 | National Diploma: Geospatial Image Analysis: Law Enforcement Operations | Generic Provider - Field 08 | Level 5 | Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5 | 251 | SAS SETA | OQSF | |
62650 | National Diploma: Geospatial Image Analysis: Military Operations | Generic Provider - Field 08 | Level 5 | Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5 | 251 | SAS SETA | OQSF |
PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THESE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: |
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. |