Computer Technician
Purpose
Upon completion of the qualification students will be expected to provides technical assistance to users, including diagnosing and resolving issues and problems with software, hardware, computer peripheral equipment, networks, databases, systems and the internet.
The qualification outcomes cover types of software, hardware, components, upgrading and troubleshooting a computer, formatting and partitioning hard drives, and network topologies. Green technology, maintaining records of daily problems and remedial actions, and prepare evaluations for systems performance.
A Qualified Learner Will Be Able To
Identify the potential green technologies, processes and procedures to create a sustainable computer environment to reduce e-waste in an organisation.
Set up desktop/laptop for a new user according to software compatibility by installing operating systems and peripheral equipment according to given specifications.
Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards.
Analyse and resolve hardware/software problems such as operational discrepancies to optimise performance of the desktop/laptop systems.
Apply knowledge of principles and practices in order to identify and solve problems arising in the course of their work.
Rationale
This qualification is a response to Output 3.1.2 of the NSDS III target: Programmes offered to meet industry needs, including those supporting apprenticeships and N-Courses, are reviewed, updated and made available to and accessed by employers.
With the increase in personal computers, home computers, and computers in schools and businesses, it is important that students are trained to be able to maintain and upgrade computers and their components.
The qualification will prepare students to become competent as a computer technician with an understanding of computer hardware and software troubleshooting. Students will also be competent and have hands-on computer repair skills.
Computer technicians provide assistance to computer users by answering questions, resolving technical problems and maintaining a company’s network, software and computer equipment. They are also called desktop support technicians or computer support specialists.
Support can be provided in person, over the phone or online. They address issues ranging from network systems to individual desktop computers.
Computer technicians can work for computer software or hardware companies, assisting customers with products. More generally, computer technicians can work in a company’s IT department, providing computer support to company employees. These technicians are responsible for maintaining the company’s computer services (network and equipment). Their duties can include troubleshooting to detect and solve technical problems, installing or updating required hardware and software. They can also recommend computer products or equipment to improve company productivity.
The qualification presents an opportunity for students, upon completion, to start their own business to repair, upgrade, install, and maintain computer systems.
The qualification does not cover vendor specific programmes, but students will have basic knowledge and skills to work on different kinds of operations and application software.
Learners would have to keep abreast with current technological developments through affiliation with professional bodies or associations.
This is an entry-level qualification to provide the students with an opportunity to progress into the following career paths: Computer Database Assistant, Software Developer, Computer/Network Support Technician, System Administrator, Project Manager and others related occupations.
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.
RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.
Entry Requirements
- A NQF Level 4 qualification/ or its equivalent
- Senior Certificate (matric).
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?
Yes
QUALIFICATION RULES
This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:
Knowledge Modules:
- 351201001-KM-01, Introduction to Data Communication and Networking, Level 5, 15 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-02, Basics of Computer Architecture: Hardware, Level 5, 30 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-03, Basics of Computer Architecture: Software, Level 5, 30 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-04, Basic Concepts of Sustainable Computer Environment and Green Technologies, Level 4, 10 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-05, Social Media and Digital Literacy, Level 4, 5 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-06, End User Computing, Level 3, 6 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-07, Business communication and customer services, Level 5, 8 Credits.
- 351201001-KM-08, Ready for work standards, Level 4, 5 Credits.
- Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 109.
Practical Skill Modules:
- 351201001-PM-01, Troubleshoot computer and network faults, Level 5, 30 Credits.
- 351201001-PM-02, Maintain computer and network security Level 4, 8 Credits.
- 351201001-PM-03, Provide support to end Users, Level 5, 30 Credits.
- 351201001-PM-04, Install computer software and hardware, Level 4, 5 Credits.
- Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 73.
Work Experience Modules:
351201001-WM-01, Respond to user inquiries regarding fault request, NQF Level 5, 30 Credits.
351201001-WM-02, Set up equipment for users, check operating system performance and ensure proper installation of cables and software, Level 5, 25 Credits.
351201001-WM-03, Processes of maintaining computer systems and peripherals, Level 5, 15 Credits.
351201001-WM-04, Identify the potential green technologies, processes and procedures for cost effective application and create a sustainable computer environment to reduce e-waste, Level 4, 10 Credits.
351201001-WM-05, Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities, Level 4, 20 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 100.
FEES STRUCTURE:
DURATION OF THIS QUALIFICATION: 18 MONTHS
- Total fees R21,600 PLUS Reg and Admin fees
- Monthly instalment R1200 X18 months
- Registration fee R500 (Non Refundable)
- Admin fee R 2000 (To cover School Uniform, Study Material/ Training Manuals, Student card)
- Once off R1500 (Practical Training KIT) payable the practical training commences
NOTE: To complete the registration process we shall need the applicant to pay the Registration and Admin fees of R2500 as well as the monthly instalment of R1200 and thereafter monthly fees ate payable on or before the 3rd of every month
PRACTICAL TRAINING
A once off practical training fee of R2000 will be paid on or before the 31st March to enable all students to work and gain practical experience in places or facilities that serve people within the Information Technology Sector
For us to complete your registration process, the following have to be sent back to us:
- ID Copy
- Completed application form
- Proof of payment of the Registration and Admin fee
CAREER OPPORTUNITES
- Computer Technician (maintaining the company’s computer services Network and Computer Systems, Troubleshooting to detect and solve technical problems, installing or updating required hardware and software)
- Systems Support Specialist ( job classification series is intended for employees that provide technical assistance and support related to computer systems, hardware, and software in a help desk setting)
- Hardware and Infrastructure Support for Personal Computers
- Hardware and Infrastructure Support for Office Products
- Data Communications and Networking
- Tech support ( manage, maintain, and repair IT systems. Their responsibilities include diagnosing and repairing faults, resolving network
