Mechanical

Purpose:

The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with the standards and the range of learning required to work effectively in various industries making use of automotive repair and maintenance skills and to meet the challenges of the automotive industry and related environments.

The primary skill that is recognised in this qualification is the ability to apply the theory of repair and maintenance in order to conduct major servicing, repair and maintenance of vehicles and components.

This capability requires an understanding of basic repairing and maintenance theory, names and functions of fluids and lubricants, automotive components and how to read and interpret workshop manuals and workshop procedures. Hand skills also play an important role in this qualification and successful learners will need to apply hand skills in completing their tasks.

This qualification has been designed to accommodate learners from a wide area to make allowance for the wide range of vehicles currently available. This qualification can be achieved in one of the following specialisation areas:

• Passenger Vehicles.
• Commercial Vehicles.
• Earthmoving Equipment.
• Lift Trucks.
• Motorcycles.Training and assessment will be contextualised to the specialisation area of the learner, and the learner will be required to prove competence in the specialisation area enrolled in.

  This qualification is the second progressive qualification for a motor mechanic and learners will be able to build on this qualification to achieve higher levels of automotive repair and maintenance in the same specialisation area.

  After achieving this qualification learners will be able to:

• Communicate and solve problems in an automotive workshop.
• Conduct work activities in an automotive context.
• Repair and maintain vehicles.Rationale:

  This qualification in automotive repair and maintenance NQF Level 3 has been developed as a progression from qualifications in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 2. The development was necessary due to expansion into advanced repair and maintenance technology. With the advancement of technology this qualification is also needed to replace the previous segmented and aged qualifications system, improve the industry standards and prevent fraudulent qualifications.
  The field of automotive maintenance and repair is characterised by the overall servicing of vehicles as well as the removal, dismantling and replacement of components and minor adjustments to vehicle systems. This in turn provides support and job opportunities to a variety of small businesses in the retail motor and related industries.

  This qualification recognises the skills, knowledge and values relevant in the workplace and will cater for learners who:

• Have attended courses and need to apply the knowledge gained to activities in the workplace.
• Are already workers and have acquired skills and knowledge without having attended formal training.
• Are part of a learnership programme which integrates structured learning and operational experience.There is also a critical need in the industry to identify people who are able to conduct the essential servicing and related operations associated with the range of vehicles on the road and apply efficient and safe operational practices in at least one of the specialisation areas in which this qualification may be achieved.

  This is the second qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in the field of automotive repair and maintenance. This qualification focuses on developing skills and knowledge necessary to perform as a competent person in the automotive and associated industries. People who have achieved the skills and knowledge outlined in this qualification are normally employed in the following positions:

• General Motor mechanic.
• General Earth moving mechanic.
• Repair shop assistant.
• General Diesel mechanic.
• General Lift truck mechanic.
• General Motorcycle mechanic.
• Automotive mechanic CBMT level two.It also provides learners who have gained relevant experience in the workplace with an opportunity to obtain credits through an RPL process. The qualification also forms the basis for further learning in the field of vehicle technology.

It is assumed that learners are already competent in:

• Communication at NQF Level 2.
• Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 2.
• Automotive repair and maintenance at NQF level 2 in the selected specialisation area.Recognition of Prior Learning:

  The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible, if the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. Recognition of Prior Learning will be done by means of an Integrated Assessment as mentioned in the previous paragraph.

  This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow:

• For accelerated access to further learning.
• Gaining of credits towards any of the Exit Level Outcomes in this qualification.All recognition of Prior Learning is subject to quality assurance by the relevant accredited Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA) and must be conducted by a registered workplace assessor. Identified outcomes may have been acquired in a range of economic sectors and these will be considered as appropriate where the candidate provides evidence of the applicability of that learning to this qualification.

  Access to the Qualification:

  This qualification is open for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in automotive repair and maintenance, but prior achievement of the “Learning Assumed to be in Place” would facilitate an easier progression into learning programmes to address the outcomes of this qualification.

The core unit standards identified are applicable across the entire range of specialisation areas applicable to this qualification. Specific unit standards that are required for certain specialisation areas have been identified and listed below. Rules of combination for this qualification are as follows:

All Fundamental unit standards are compulsory (36 Credits).

All Core unit standards are compulsory (63 Credits).

Elective Component:

The Elective Component consists of a number of specialisations each with its own set of Unit Standards. In addition to the compulsory unit standards listed below, learners are to choose 14 credits from the list of Elective Unit Standards so as to attain a minimum of 135 credits for this qualification.

Automotive Repair and Maintenance Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 64809):

For learners specialising in Passenger and Light Delivery Vehicles, the following unit standards are compulsory (32 credits):

• ID 12218: Construct and test basic electronic circuits, Level 2, 16 Credits.
• ID 260637: Test and report on condition of vehicle starting and charging system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
• ID 13282: Maintain Brakes and Clutches, Level 3, 6 Credits.
• ID 15100: Check and adjust steering geometry, Level 3, 4 Credits.
• ID 11202: Fit and commission air-conditioners to vehicles, Level 3, 8 Credits.For learners specialising in Commercial Vehicles, the following unit standards are compulsory (34 credits):
• ID 12218: Construct and test basic electronic circuits, Level 2, 16 Credits.
• ID 260637: Test and report on condition of vehicle starting and charging system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
• ID 13282: Maintain Brakes and Clutches, Level 3, 6 Credits.
• ID 15100: Check and adjust steering geometry, Level 3, 4 Credits.
• ID 260723: Install, test and maintain a fluid power system, Level 3, 8 Credits.For learners specialising in Earthmoving Equipment and Lift Trucks, the following unit standards are compulsory (30 credits):
• ID 12218: Construct and test basic electronic circuits, Level 2, 16 Credits.
• ID 260637: Test and report on condition of vehicle starting and charging system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
• ID 13282: Maintain Brakes and Clutches, Level 3, 6 Credits.
• ID 260723: Install, test and maintain a fluid power system, Level 3, 8 Credits.For learners specialising in Motorcycles, the following unit standards are compulsory (26 credits):
• ID 12218: Construct and test basic electronic circuits, Level 2, 16 Credits.
• ID 260637: Test and report on condition of vehicle starting and charging system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
• ID 13282: Maintain Brakes and Clutches, Level 3, 6 Credits.For learners specialising in Suspension Workshops, the following unit standards are compulsory (29 credits):
• 15105: Install vehicle sub-components, Level 3, 8 Credits.
• 15113: Dismantle vehicle sub-components, Level 3, 8 Credits.
• 15117: Repair and assemble sub-components, Level 3, 8 Credits.
• 15118: Remove vehicle sub-component, Level 3, 5 Credits.Mining and Minerals Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 78544):

  The following unit standards must be achieved for the Mining and Minerals sector:

• ID 260637: Test and report on condition of vehicle starting and charging system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
• ID 13282: Maintain brakes and clutches, Level 3, 6 Credits.
• ID 15100: Check and adjust steering geometry, Level 3, 4 Credits.
• ID 260723: Install, test and maintain a basic fluid power system, Level 3, 8 Credits.Additional Elective unit standards must be selected to achieve a minimum of 135 credits for this qualification.

1. Communicate and solve problems in an automotive workshop.

2. Conduct work activities in an automotive context.

3. Repair and maintain vehicles.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes, as detailed in the unit standards:

• Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to solve routine workplace problems and tasks.
• Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to maintain and adapt oral communication for a specific context.Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to adhere to workplace timeframes and procedures.
• Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to identify appropriate equipment for a specific function.
• Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to report on work conducted.
• Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to use the correct tools and equipment to repair and maintain vehicles.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
  Note: The ability of the candidate to explain the purpose of maintaining a vehicle on a regular basis.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

1.1 Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a work context.
1.2 Information is accessed from standing instructions, visual information and a range of other workplace texts and responses where required are appropriate to the context.
1.3 Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
1.4 Mathematical functions are used correctly to solve routine workplace problems and tasks.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

2.1 Organisational procedures are explained in relation to the work environment.
2.2 Financial implications of actions taken are understood in relation to efficiency of business.
2.3 Work is conducted in accordance with agreed time schedules.
2.4 Work is conducted efficiently with a minimum of wastage.
2.5 Work is conducted in accordance with workplace health and safety procedures.
2.6 Quality is managed in accordance with industry best practice.
2.7 Time is managed in accordance with workplace requirements.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

3.1 Work area and vehicle is prepared for the work task according to workplace procedures.
3.2 Appropriate test equipment is connected according to workplace specifications.
3.3 Components are removed and replaced in accordance with workplace requirements.
3.4 Components are dismantled and assembled according to manufacturer recommendations.
3.5 Component replacement parts are ordered in accordance with workplace procedures.
3.6 Safety procedures are adhered to during repair and maintenance tasks.
3.7 The vehicle is repaired and maintained according to vehicle specifications.
3.8 Work conducted is reported in accordance with workplace procedures.

Integrated Assessment:

Because assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the exit level outcomes should be integrated.

A variety of methods must be used in assessment tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, 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. During integrated assessments the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

Assessment should ensure that all outcomes, embedded knowledge and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the critical cross-field outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and embedded knowledge.

As a starting point, this qualification which is part of a series of qualifications in the field of vehicle technology including, servicing, maintenance, repairs and diagnostics, was compared to other, similar outcomes-based qualifications, certifications or skills standards in English speaking countries of the world.

It was found to be difficult to compare the New Zealand and Australian narrow focus qualifications with this broad-based qualification that also include fundamentals, however the generic core and specialisation areas` unit standards did compare favourably to both the Australian (AUR99) Automotive Industry, Service and Repair unit standards and the NVQ qualification in the United Kingdom.

An example of the exact multi specialisation area approach used in this qualification was found in Australia under Automotive Retail Service Repair Training (www.automotivetraining.org.au). The range of unit standards used in Australia that relate similarly to core unit standards in this qualification may be found at (www.ntis.gov.au).

It was further difficult to undertake specific comparisons given that the New Zealand and Australian qualifications, although they are in the same field of vehicle technology and cover the same areas of specialisation (thus containing a large degree of similar content) are conceptualised as three year qualifications without exit level outcomes at the intermediate levels.

This notwithstanding, the technical content of this qualification for automotive repair and maintenance (with the various specialisations) corresponds with the equivalent level of qualification in vehicle servicing (with the various specialisations) in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Elements of the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) in the UK have been used in benchmarking best practice procedures in some of the unit standards used in this qualification. The NVQ qualifications offered in the UK cover all the same objectives of this series of qualifications at various levels of complexity. The qualifications are offered as an internship wherein the learner enrols with a college or training centre for the theoretical component, and achieves the practical component in-house. The qualifications are all based on specific levels of performance, and lead to progressive levels of complexity, but are identified as separate qualifications. The learning towards these qualifications is offered through long-term learner-employer relationships, with short-term stints at a training centre. Qualification titles in the UK include:

• Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015915).
• Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015916).
• Motorcycle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015918).
• Vehicle Refinishing, Level 3: (Q1017590).
• Vehicle Body Repair, Level 3: (Q1015917).
• Vehicle Body Fitting, Level 2: (Q1015913).
• Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, unit Replacement, Level 2: (Q1015914).The qualifications offered in other European countries, such as Germany, are also predominantly vocational qualifications with theoretical components being achieved through a specified period at a training centre. The qualifications are aimed at achieving complete competence in all aspects of vehicle maintenance through the progressive series of qualifications and includes mechanical, electrical and coach works. The training programmes are progressive qualifications of one-year duration each and include ongoing training through workbooks in which the trainee is required to complete evidence of understanding for each month of the registered year of learning. Germany has a requirement that competent people be licensed to operate under the meister (master craftsman) programme, and this licence is valid for a period of two years. The qualification titles offered in Germany include:
• Auto Fachman: NQF Level 1.
• Auto Fachman: NQF Level 2.
• Auto Fachman: NQF Level 3.
• Auto Fachman: Meister.America uses a system of specialisation areas, with a master technician being identified as a person who is competent in all areas and will be able to perform on almost any part of a vehicle. The learning is conducted through apprenticeships and has specialisation areas for engine technicians, transmission technicians, steering and suspension technicians, brake technicians, electrical system technicians, heating and air-conditioning technicians, driveability and performance technicians and lubrication technicians.

  None of the SADC countries have their own qualifications relating to vehicle maintenance, but use the British City and Guilds Standards for training learners in the automotive field. Namibia has indicated interest in the South African qualifications and may implement this qualification once it has been registered.

This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

Horizontal articulation is possible with any of the specialisation areas within this qualification and also with the following Qualifications:

• ID 21005: National Certificate: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 3.
• ID 22859: National Certificate: Autotronics, NQF Level 3.
• ID 22771: National Certificate: Mechatronics, NQF Level 3.Vertical articulation is possible with the following qualifications:
• ID 58539: National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance at NQF Level 4.

• Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA).
• Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
• Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA’s policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation, in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQAs (including professional bodies).
• Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the ELOs of the Qualification and will include integration of skills relevant to the economic sector.

Assessors must be registered in terms of the requirements of SAQA and the relevant ETQA. In addition, assessors should have:

• A minimum of 3 (three) years’ practical, relevant occupational experience.
• A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 4 or higher.
• The ability to meet the outcomes of this qualification.

This qualification replaces qualification 58497, “National Certificate: Automotive repair and maintenance”, Level 3, 120 credits.

• The qualification National Certificate in Automotive Repair and Maintenance at NQF Level 3 (58497) has been revised. Even though the qualification was still current, the revision was necessary due to the inclusion of additional specialisation areas.
• Engine Fitting has not been catered for as a specialisation area at this level because the core component of this qualification covers all that an engine fitter would be required to do and more. Providers of learning may select the relevant unit standards and create a learning programme in Engine Fitting.

Purpose:

The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with the standards and the range of learning required to work effectively in various industries making use of automotive repair and maintenance skills and to meet the challenges of the automotive industry and related environments.

The primary skill that is recognised in this qualification is the ability to apply the theory of repair and maintenance in order to diagnose and repair vehicles and components.

This capability requires an understanding of basic repairing and maintenance theory, names and functions of fluids and lubricants, automotive components and how to read and interpret workshop manuals and workshop procedures. Hand skills also play an important role in this qualification and successful learners will need to apply hand skills in completing their tasks.

This qualification has been designed to accommodate learners from a wide area to make allowance for the wide range of vehicles currently available. This qualification can be achieved in one of the following 5 specialisation areas:

• Passenger Vehicles.
• Commercial Vehicles.
• Earthmoving Equipment.
• Lift Trucks.
• Motorcycles.Training and assessment will be contextualised to the specialisation area of the learner, and the learner will be required to prove competence in the specialisation area enrolled in.

  This qualification is the third progressive qualification for a motor mechanic and learners will be able to build on this qualification to achieve higher levels of automotive repair and maintenance in the same specialisation area.

  After achieving this qualification learners will be able to:

• Communicate and solve problems in an automotive workshop.
• Co-ordinate work activities in an automotive context.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical vehicle systems.
• Diagnose and repair electronic vehicle systems.Rationale:

  This qualification in automotive repair and maintenance NQF Level 4 has been developed as a progression from qualifications in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Levels 2 and 3. The development was necessary due to expansion into advanced diagnosis and repair technology. With the advancement of technology this qualification is also needed to replace the previous segmented and aged qualifications system, improve the industry standards and prevent fraudulent qualifications.

  The field of automotive maintenance and repair is characterised by the overall servicing of vehicles as well as the removal, dismantling and replacement of components and minor adjustments to vehicle systems. This in turn provides support and job opportunities to a variety of small businesses in the retail motor and related industries.

  This qualification recognises the skills, knowledge and values relevant in the workplace and will cater for learners who:

• Have attended courses and need to apply the knowledge gained to activities in the workplace.
• Are already workers and have acquired skills and knowledge without having attended formal training.
• Are part of a learnership programme which integrates structured learning and operational experience.There is also a critical need in the industry to identify people who are able to conduct the essential servicing and related operations associated with the range of vehicles on the road and apply efficient and safe operational practices in at least one of the specialisation areas in which this qualification may be achieved.

  This is the third qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in the field of automotive repair and maintenance. This qualification focuses on developing skills and knowledge necessary to perform as a competent person in the automotive and associated industries. People who have achieved the skills and knowledge outlined in this qualification are normally employed in the following positions:

• Earth moving mechanic.
• Motor mechanic.
• Diesel mechanic.
• Lift truck mechanic.
• Motorcycle mechanic.It also provides learners who have gained relevant experience in the workplace with an opportunity to obtain credits through an RPL process. The qualification also forms the basis for further learning in the field of vehicle technology.

It is assumed that learners are already competent in:

• Communication at NQF Level 3.
• Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 3.
• Automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 3 in the selected specialisation area.Recognition of Prior Learning:

  The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible, if the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. Recognition of Prior Learning will be done by means of an Integrated Assessment as mentioned in the previous paragraph.

  This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow:

• For accelerated access to further learning.
• Gaining of credits towards any of the Exit Level Outcomes in this qualification.All recognition of Prior Learning is subject to quality assurance by the relevant accredited Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA) and must be conducted by a registered workplace assessor. Identified outcomes may have been acquired in a range of economic sectors and these will be considered as appropriate where the candidate provides evidence of the applicability of that learning to this qualification.

  Access to the Qualification:

  This qualification is open for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in automotive repair and maintenance, but prior achievement of the “Learning Assumed to be in Place” would facilitate an easier progression into learning programmes to address the outcomes of this qualification.

The core unit standards identified are applicable across the entire range of specialisation areas applicable to this qualification. Specific unit standards that are required for certain specialisation areas have been identified and listed below. Rules of combination for this qualification are as follows:

All Fundamental unit standards are compulsory (56 Credits).

All Core unit standards are compulsory (79 Credits).

Elective Component:

The Elective Component consists of a number of specialisations each with its own set of Unit Standards. Learners may choose other Elective Unit Standards in addition to the compulsory unit standards listed below; as the compulsory unit standards already meet the required 159 credits required to achieve the qualification.

Automotive Repair and Maintenance Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 64849):

• For learners specialising in Passenger, Commercial Vehicles, Lift Trucks or Motorcycles, the following unit standards are compulsory (19 Credits):
  > ID 244143: Diagnose and Repair manual transmission.
  > ID 244135: Diagnose and Repair suspension systems.
  > ID 260737: Diagnose and repair vehicle ignition systems.
  > ID 244144: Diagnose and repair steering system components.
• For learners specialising in Earthmoving Equipment, the following unit standards are compulsory (18 Credits):
  > ID 244132: Diagnose and repair air and air over hydraulic brake systems.
  > ID 260678: Diagnose and repair forced induction systems.
  > ID 260718: Remove and install fuel system components.Mining and Minerals Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 78545):

  The following unit standards are compulsory for Mining and Minerals sector:

• ID 260678: Diagnose and repair forced induction systems, Level 4, 4 Credits.
• ID 244144: Diagnose and repair steering system components, Level 4, 4 Credits.
• ID 244143: Repair manual transmissions, Level 4, 6 Credits.
• ID 260737: Diagnose and repair vehicle ignition systems, Level 4, 6 Credits.
• ID 244132: Diagnose and repair air and air over hydraulics brake systems, Level 4, 8 Credits.
• ID 260718: Remove and install fuel system components, Level 3, 6 Credits.Additional Elective unit standards must be selected to achieve a minimum of 159 credits for this qualification.

1. Communicate and solve problems in an automotive workshop.

2. Co-ordinate work activities in an automotive context.

3. Diagnose and repair mechanical and/or electronic vehicle systems.

This qualification addresses the following Critical Cross-Field Outcomes, as detailed in the unit standards:

• Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to use mathematical functions to solve routine workplace problems.
• Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to coordinate work functions of a team.
• Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to adhere to workplace timeframes and procedures.
• Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to identify repair and maintenance defects and act appropriately.
• Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to report on work conducted.
• Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to use the correct tools and equipment to diagnose and repair complex systems.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
  > Note: The ability of the candidate to collect data from various sources to repair the identified faults.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

1.1 Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a work context.
1.2 Information is accessed from standing instructions, visual information and a range of other workplace texts and responses where required are appropriate to the context.
1.3 Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
1.4 Mathematical functions are used correctly to solve routine workplace problems and tasks.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

2.1 Organisational procedures are explained in relation to the work environment.
2.2 Financial implications of actions taken are understood in relation to efficiency of business.
2.3 Subordinates` activities are co-ordinated to achieve work targets with available resources.
2.4 Quality is ensured in accordance with workshop standards.
2.5 Time is managed in accordance with workplace requirements.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

3.1 Work area and vehicle is prepared for the work task according to vehicle specifications and workshop procedures.
3.2 Test equipment is connected according to workplace specifications.
3.3 Faulty vehicle system is identified and appropriate data collected from relevant sources.
3.4 System faults are identified and repaired according to manufacturer specifications.
3.5 Safety procedures are adhered to during diagnosing and repairing tasks.

Integrated Assessment:

Because assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the exit level outcomes should be integrated.

A variety of methods must be used in assessment tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, 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. During integrated assessments the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

Assessment should ensure that all outcomes, embedded knowledge and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the critical cross-field outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and embedded knowledge.

As a starting point, this qualification which is part of a series of qualifications in the field of vehicle technology including, servicing, maintenance, repairs and diagnostics, was compared to other, similar outcomes-based qualifications, certifications or skills standards in English speaking countries of the world.

It was found to be difficult to compare the New Zealand and Australian narrow focus qualifications with this broad-based qualification that also include fundamentals, however the generic core and specialisation areas’ unit standards did compare favourably to both the Australian (AUR99) Automotive Industry, Service and Repair unit standards and the NVQ qualification in the United Kingdom.

An example of the exact multi specialisation area approach used in this qualification was found in Australia under Automotive Retail Service Repair Training (www.automotivetraining.org.au). The range of unit standards used in Australia that relate similarly to core unit standards in this qualification may be found at (www.ntis.gov.au).

It was further difficult to undertake specific comparisons given that the New Zealand and Australian qualifications, although they are in the same field of vehicle technology and cover the same areas of specialisation (thus containing a large degree of similar content) are conceptualised as three year qualifications without exit level outcomes at the intermediate levels.

This notwithstanding, the technical content of this qualification for automotive repair and maintenance (with the various specialisations) corresponds with the equivalent level of qualification in vehicle servicing (with the various specialisations) in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Elements of the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) in the UK have been used in benchmarking best practice procedures in some of the unit standards used in this qualification. The NVQ qualifications offered in the UK cover all the same objectives of this series of qualifications at various levels of complexity. The qualifications are offered as an internship wherein the learner enrols with a college or training centre for the theoretical component, and achieves the practical component in-house. The qualifications are all based on specific levels of performance, and lead to progressive levels of complexity, but are identified as separate qualifications. The learning towards these qualifications is offered through long-term learner-employer relationships, with short-term stints at a training centre.

Qualification titles in the UK include:

• Vehicle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair – Level 3: (Q1015915).
• Vehicle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair – Level 3: (Q1015916).
• Motorcycle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair – Level 3: (Q1015918).
• Vehicle Refinishing – Level 3: (Q1017590).
• Vehicle Body Repair – Level 3: (Q1015917).
• Vehicle Body Fitting – Level 2: (Q1015913).
• Vehicle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, unit Replacement – Level 2: (Q1015914).The qualifications offered in other European countries, such as Germany, are also predominantly vocational qualifications with theoretical components being achieved through a specified period at a training centre. The qualifications are aimed at achieving complete competence in all aspects of vehicle maintenance through the progressive series of qualifications and includes mechanical, electrical and coach works. The training programmes are progressive qualifications of one-year duration each and include ongoing training through workbooks in which the trainee is required to complete evidence of understanding for each month of the registered year of learning. Germany has a requirement that competent people be licensed to operate under the meister (master craftsman) programme, and this licence is valid for a period of two years.

  The qualification titles offered in Germany include:

• Auto Fachman – Level 1.
• Auto Fachman – Level 2.
• Auto Fachman – Level 3.
• Auto Fachman – Meister.America uses a system of specialisation areas, with a master technician being identified as a person who is competent in all areas and will be able to perform on almost any part of a vehicle. The learning is conducted through apprenticeships and has specialisation areas for engine technicians, transmission technicians, steering and suspension technicians, brake technicians, electrical system technicians, heating and air-conditioning technicians, driveability and performance technicians and lubrication technicians.

  None of the SADC countries have their own qualifications relating to vehicle maintenance, but use the British City and Guilds Standards for training learners in the automotive field. Namibia has indicated interest in the South African qualifications and may implement this qualification once it has been registered.

This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

Horizontal articulation is possible with any of the specialisation areas within this qualification and also with the following Qualifications:

• ID 21006: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 4.
• ID 22860: Autotronics, NQF Level 4.
• ID 22772: Mechatronics, NQF Level 4.Vertical articulation is possible with the following qualifications:
• National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance at NQF Level 5.

• Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA).
• Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
• Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA’s policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation, in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQAs (including professional bodies).
• Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the ELOs of the Qualification and will include integration of skills relevant to the economic sector.

Assessors must be registered in terms of the requirements of SAQA and the relevant ETQA. In addition, assessors should have:

• A minimum of 3 (three) years’ practical, relevant occupational experience.
• A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 5 or higher.
• The ability to meet the outcomes of this qualification.

This qualification replaces qualification 58539, “Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance”, Level 4, 150 credits.

• The qualification National Certificate in Automotive Repair and Maintenance – Level 4 (58539) has been revised. Even though the qualification was still current, the revision was necessary due to the inclusion of additional specialisation areas. This qualification replaces qualification 58539, Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive repair and maintenance, Level 4, 150 credits.
• Engine Fitting has not been catered for as a specialisation area at this level because the core component of this qualification covers all that an engine fitter would be required to do and more. Providers of learning may select the relevant core unit standards and create a learning programme in Engine Fitting.