September 20, 2021 - Bobby -
The Qualification Development Team (QDT) for Computing met last week (Thursday) to discuss progress and update members about changes. It was well attended with 22 members logging into the Teams meeting. I informed members about the changes made since we last met. These are: removal of “legacy” (current) units from qualifications removal of PDAs from the awards revision of the grading model. The updated frameworks for HNC Computing and HND Data Science can be found here. I also discussed the…
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September 14, 2021 - Megan -
As mentioned in a previous post, we were seeking extensions to the below diplomas. I am pleased to confirm that the extension request for these has now been approved. Please see the new lapse dates for the diplomas below: Diploma in Digital Application Support at SCQF Level 5 (GL2J 45) – 31/12/2023 (previously 30/09/2021) Diploma in Digital Application Support at SCQF Level 6 (GL2K 46) – 31/12/2023 (previously 30/09/2021) Diploma for Information Technology and Telecommunications Professionals at SCQF Level 5 (GL2L 45)…
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August 27, 2021 - Megan -
As advised in a previous post, assessments for the three component units of the revised NPA Computer Networks at SCQF level 5 award, along with a combined assessment were in production, and were due to be available in Spring 2021. Unfortunately these have been slightly delayed, however the knowledge assessments will be available in the first week of September and the practical assessments will be available by mid September. Should you have any queries or wish any updates on these assessments,…
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August 16, 2021 - Bobby -
Regular readers will know that SQA has been working on the next generation of Higher National Qualifications in three subject areas – Computing, Engineering and TV. My team has spent the last 18 months developing two “next gen” qualifications in Computing — HNC Computing and HND Data Science. We had hoped to pilot these prototype qualifications this month (August) but the exceptional circumstances in colleges last year prevented that. We’re hoping that things are better this year and there are…
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SQA offers a range of diplomas as part of the Apprenticeship programme, ran by Skills Development Scotland (SDS). The qualifications are: Diploma in Digital Application Support (SCQF Levels 5, 6) Diploma in IT & Telecom Professionals (SCQF Levels 5, 6, 8) Diploma in Information Security Professionals (SCQF Levels 6, 8) Diploma in Data Analytics (SCQF Level 8). Work is on-going by SDS and SQA to redevelop the qualification frameworks. We’re currently working on a new diploma at SCQF Level 8…
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Three committees assist me and my team to carry out our work. These are: Sector Panel, Qualification Support Team and Lead Person Network. These are permanent, standing committees. We also form ad-hoc committees, such as Qualification Development Teams, when the need arises. The Sector Panel provides strategic advice about external developments to ensure that qualifications remain current and relevant. Membership includes employers, universities, colleges, schools, training providers, representatives of national organisations and educational experts. A vital role for the Panel is…
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We are looking for volunteers to write and vet new SOLAR assessments for the following units within the PDA Data Science: It is paid work. If you are interested or have any queries, please get in touch with me.
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A number of teachers recently contacted the team about the assessments for NPA Cyber Security and NPA Data Science. Although most of the queries related to special circumstances arising from Covid, some also related to the quality of the assessments. As a result of that, we’re going to review the assessments over the Summer. Two experienced teachers will carry out this work. At this time, it’s simply a scoping exercise to check the quality of what’s there and to advise…
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Hilary’s team have recently carried out a survey to gather feedback on the changes proposed to the units and assessments under review and will be starting work on these revisions shortly. They are looking for practitioners to work with them to write, vet and provide additional support to their qualifications. If you are interested in getting involved in this review please complete and return the attached Expression of Interest form to Hilary, or get in touch with her if you…
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I’m pleased to let you know that we’re about to commence the development of three new National Units relating to data science. The units, which will be called “Data Skills”, will be available at SCQF Levels 3, 4 and 5. These new National Units will focus on foundation data skills, covering essential knowledge and skills in statistics, data analysis and data visualisation. We hope that they will be useful to every learner. The units will be different from the National…
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