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 | |||
67629 | National Certificate: Mechatronics | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
MERSETA - Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
National Certificate | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Engineering and Related Design | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 142 | 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 06120/18 | 2018-07-01 | 2023-06-30 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2024-06-30 | 2027-06-30 |
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 replaces: |
Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
22770 | National Certificate: Mechatronics | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 140 | Complete |
This qualification is replaced by: |
Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
102004 | Occupational Certificate: Mechatronics Technician | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | 923 | Complete |
PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
Purpose:
Mechatronics is essentially about engineering, computer hardware, software and network systems and how they interface, in an integrated manner, to produce a consistent and functional outcome. The primary skills that are recognized by this qualification include the ability to: Entrants into a technical work and learning environment need to be exposed to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the discipline. 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. On completion, qualifying learners are able to: The Qualifying learner will be able to: Through this qualification the learner gains competencies required for entry level work, as a technical assistant, in most fields of engineering. What learners achieve in this Qualification will also serve as the basis for further learning where they will engage more directly in the installation, maintenance and commissioning of Mechatronic systems. Rationale: This manufacturing industry is characterised by technologically sophisticated automation processes using Computerised Integrated Manufacturing systems (CIM's) that integrate the fields of mechanical, electrical, electronic, engineering, 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 regulation and legislation. People working in the Mechatronics field require specialized 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. The NQF Level 2 Qualification is foundational in nature. It seeks to develop the necessary foundational theoretical, practical skills and orientation that learners require as the basis for further learning in the field of Mechatronics. It introduces the learner to key concepts that will be useful at higher levels in the qualification series. In the South African context in line with global trends there is a growing need for technical workers from the lowest elementary levels of mechanised manufacturing to the highest level of sophisticated specialised work in robotics. For example motor manufacturers and other mechanised mass manufacturers are increasingly reliant on employees that are competent in the integrated fields that make up the field of Mechatronics. The fact that global players for example in the motor industry are increasingly using South Africa as a manufacturing base for export purposes is indicative of the continued growth outlook in the long-term. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
This Qualification assumes that learners are already competent in Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.
Recognition of Prior Learning: This Qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning. Whether a learner attends formal courses or acquires the required skills through informal means, competency must be shown in the Unit Standard as set out in the rules of combination and in the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification. The Qualification and the Unit Standards have been written in such a way that the learning has to be assessed in an integrated way. Assessors will assess evidence to establish what the learners know, understand and can do. Such evidence may be gathered through course related activities and/or through work related activities. In cases where learners do not attend formal learning programs, assessors should seek work related evidence as far as possible. Assessors should ensure that learners submitting themselves to RPL are thoroughly briefed prior to assessment. Learners may be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal recognition. Access to the Qualification: Access is open. |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
The Qualification consists of Fundamental, Core and Elective Unit Standards. A minimum of 142 Credits is required to achieve this Qualification. The Credits are allocated as follows:
Fundamental Component: The Fundamental component of this Qualification consists of 9 Unit Standards in both Communication and Mathematical Literacy. All the Fundamental Unit Standard totallig 36 Credits are compulsory for all learners. Core Component: The core component of this Qualification consists of 12 Unit Standards totalling 103 Credits are the Core Unit Standards totalling at least 3 Credits. All the Core Unit Standards are compulsory. Elective Component: The elective component consists of 9 elective Units Standards. The learner must choose Unit Standards totalling at least 3 Credits to complete the Qualification. |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Demonstrate an understanding of basic mechanical engineering in the joining and assembly of parts and mechanical installations.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of basic electrical/electronic engineering theory and the ability to install electrical and electronic components in a circuit. 3. Generate and retrieve files and store information 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 at supervisory/management levels. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: This will be achieved when qualifying learners: Identify and solve problems: Work effectively with others as a member of a team or organisation: Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively: Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information: Communicate effectively by using Mathematical and language skills in the modes of oral and written presentations: Use Science and Technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others: Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem solving contexts do not exist in isolation: |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
1.1 Assemblies meet specifications according to quality requirements. 1.2 Safe working practices are adhered to according to worksite procedures. 1.3 Working drawings and instructions are interpreted according to drawing methods. 1.4 Materials and tools are selected according to assembly requirement. 1.5 Tools, equipment and materials are stored upon completion of assembly activity according to worksite procedures. 1.6 Issues related to the assembly of mechanical components are discussed. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: 2.1 Components are selected according to drawing and circuit requirements. 2.2 Safe working practices are adhered to according to worksite procedures. 2.3 Cable installation meets quality standards. 2.4 Electrical safety practices are adhered to according to standard operating procedures. 2.5 Testing and measurement are done according to procedures. 2.6 Electrical and electronic circuits function to specifications and meets quality requirements. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: 3.1 Issues related to the selection and use of computer hardware and software are discussed. 3.2 Documents are generated, saved and retrieved using a computer system. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: 4.1 Various options are considered before a solution is chosen. 4.2 Lessons learnt in previous performances are used to improve performance and solve problem 4.3 Responses are appropriate to the nature of the problem. 4.4 Problems are accurately reported to relevant personnel in a timely manner. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: 5.1 Communication is regular and ongoing in accordance with organization standard procedures. 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. 5.4 The ability to summarise information is demonstrated in written and spoken form. Integrated Assessment: Integrated assessment evaluates the learner's ability to combine actions and ideas across a range of activities and knowledge areas. The integrated assessment must specifically assess the learner's ability to: The assessment will require assessment methods which measure and evaluate evidence generated during learning and on-the-job activities. Because assessment practices must be open and transparent, fair, valid and reliable; ensuring that no leaner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. A variety of methods must be used in assessment tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working or will work. Where it is not possible to assess the learner at the workplace, simulations, case studies role plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment. The term integrated assessment implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the Unit Standards should be integrated and, during integrated assessment, the assessor should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools and methods. Combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies should be assessed. Assessment should further ensure that all specific outcomes, embedded knowledge and Critical Cross Field Outcomes are evaluated in an integrated way. Assessors must assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience as the assessment process is capable of being applied to RPL, subject to the rules and criteria of the relevant ETQA. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
The comparative review is made from leading technology countries that have a competitive edge in Mechatronics, namely the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA) and Germany. The language barrier made it a challenge to access training in countries like Japan and South Korea.
In this international comparability survey, the various ways of achieving a Mechatronics qualification and the various course configuration sets are reviewed. Comparable aspects of the various programs in terms of entry requirements, credits awarded, approaches to learning and work, as well as Exit Level Outcomes are highlighted. The United Kingdom (UK): There are a number of avenues for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) Course code (HNC 6HHH; HNC/EMt) and the National Diploma (HND Course code (HND 63HH; HND/EMt). Various organisations approach the achievement of Mechatronics qualifications in different ways. For example, ASME's uses a case study-problem solving with video demonstrations. The emphasis is placed on physical understanding rather than being mathematically oriented. Moray College Scotland [Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA]: The SQA enables the provision of Mechatronics at Higher Level (Higher Engineering Frameworks) through the Higher National Certificate (HNC) Ref G87M 15 and the Higher National Diploma (HND) Ref G87M 16. The following is a course outline for the Mowray College, in Scotland, for the HNC Mechatronics award: Entrance Requirements. Passes in: Duration: HNC full time 1 year; part time 2 years or more. HND full time 2 years, part time 4-5 years. Progression: After HNC further study, one may include HND Mechatronics, BSc Mechatronics Engineering or a related course at Level 1. After the HND, further study may include BSc Mechatronics Engineering or a related course, with the possibility of entering at Level 2. Key elements of the Scottish qualification in relation to the South African Qualification Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) HNC Mechatronics Engineering; G87L 15 Level 2; Core units (excluding optional units): Level 3; Core units (excluding optional units): Level 4; Core units (excluding optional units): Bridwater College, UK: Higher National Certificate in Mechatronics Engineering: Course Structure (Core modules-C): Business Management Techniques, Analytical methods for Engineers, Engineering, Project, Plant and process principles others, engineering design, pneumatics and hydraulics, programmable logic controllers, further Mechatronics, digital and analogue electronics. Entry requirements: A Level 3 qualification, preferably in the numerate or engineering discipline. Duration: 1 day a week for two years. Post study opportunities; A broad range of opportunities in engineering systems, design and manufacturing, maintenance, electronics, maintenance, as a technician, Engineer, Technician or Project Leader. United States of America (USA): Mechatronics is of particular importance to the US military, where Congress ordered, in 2000, that a third of ground vehicles in the military must become robotic by 2015 (robots are currently being used by the US military in Iraq and Afghanistan). This is according to the Undergraduate Mechatronics course design project at the United States Military Academy (USMA). There are number of community college level, undergraduate and graduate levels of study in Mechatronics. Community level college courses allow grade 12 level learners to study a semester based diploma program. Germany: SIEMENS Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant Programme: The international group, Siemens, runs the WORKFORCE SKILLS QUALIFICATIONS (WSQ) program. Its own elite international technical college (Siemens Technik Akademie Berlin) has developed the Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certifications Programme (SMSCP). It is offered by partnering schools worldwide including the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (North America), Nanjing College of Information Technology (China), Amatrol (U.S) and VCAT (Germany). The course aims to equip workers in: precision engineering, mechatronics, medical technology, marine and electronics related industry sectors with up-to-date information in operations, maintenance and designing of an integrated mechatronic system. Trainees are issued with the WSQ Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant (WSQ CMSA) Certificate upon successful completion of the programme and passing the modular assessments and the Siemens Level 1 Certification Examination. Siemens Technik Akademie Berlin: Certified mechatronic systems assistant programme: Level 1; Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Assistant: Level 2; Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Associate: Level 3; Siemens Certified Mechatronic Systems Professional: The SIEMENS Level 1 programme is tailored for workers who are currently employed or for those who wish to be employed in the manufacturing & automation industry as Mechatronic Systems Operator, Machine/Equipment Operator, and Line Leader. Articulation: The WSQ CMSA certification is jointly issued by WDA and SPE Berlin and is recognised both locally and internationally. In addition, trainees who complete Level 1 of the programme may attain the "Precision Engineering Workforce Skills Qualification Certificate" by completing another 9 modules of the PE WSQ programme, or the "Precision Engineering Workforce Skills Qualification Higher Certificate" by completing another 6 modules under the PE WSQ framework. Up-skilling Opportunities: Workers can be up-skilled through hands-on training in complex mechatronic systems, systems management, troubleshooting and repair of systems malfunctions, systems design and process optimisation. Career options on completion: Level 1: Machine Operators can become Senior Machine Operators. Level 2: A Mechatronic Systems Technician who completes Level 2 of the programme may progress to become a Supervisor or Senior Technician. Level 3: An Assistant Engineer who completes Level 3 of the programme may move up to the position of Engineer. Conclusion: The international comparability exercise demonstrates that the courses, qualifications and learning programmes surveyed all have common outcomes and similar learning areas of focus. However content at equivalent levels may vary due to areas of emphasis, as well as the nature and nuanced application of study programmes related to a corporate programme, like that of SIEMENS workplace. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
The qualification articulates horizontally to:
The Qualification articulates vertically to: |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
The following criteria should be applied by the relevant ETQA:
|
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
NOTES |
This qualification replaces qualification 22770, "National Certificate: Mechatronics", NQF Level 2, 140 Credits. |
UNIT STANDARDS: |
ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
Core | 253440 | Assemble mechanical components | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 12 |
Core | 264996 | 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 | 258679 | Operate and monitor a lathe | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 12 |
Core | 119753 | 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 | 119744 | 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 |
Core | 117924 | Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based word processor to format documents | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119463 | 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 | 119454 | Maintain and adapt oral/signed 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 | 119456 | Write/present for a defined context | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Elective | 13217 | Collect and use information | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
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 (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. |
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. |