How To Use CAT Credits for Maths and Languages. Credit Accumulation Transfer. This is how SAQA allows Learners to be credited as they progress up the NQF.
Credit Accumulation Transfer (CAT) for Maths and Languages
CAT is Similar to RPL
Credit Accumulation Transfer is a system that allows for the recognition and transfer of credits. You can earn credits from one institution to another or from one program to another within the same institution. This system was introduced in South Africa as part of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). This was in order to provide a standardised and transparent approach to the recognition of learning achievements.
It Makes Education and Training Sustainable
CAT ensures that learners don’t repeat the exercise of learning something they already know. This is similar to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). CAT and RPL both encourage a more sustainable approach to learning and credit-bearing training.
Numeracy and Literacy Credits
The table below illustrates when a candidate can be credited for Literacy and Numeracy.
In the first line, a candidate who completed Grade 12 with Maths can be credited on any programme from level 1 – 4.
Earning Credits On The NQF Framework
The NQF is a framework that organizes qualifications according to levels of learning achievement and allows for the comparison and recognition of qualifications across different education and training systems. There are 10 levels in the NQF, with level 1 being the lowest and level 10 being the highest. Each level is defined by a set of criteria that describe the knowledge, skills, and competencies that are expected of a learner at that level.
The Benefits of CAT are that:
- the cost of learning can be reduced as a learner only has to pay for components they require
- training time is reduced
- the programme can focus on core and specialisation outcomes
How Credits Are Accumulated and Awarded
In the CAT system, credits are allocated to learning outcomes that have been achieved by the learner. These credits are based on the level of the qualification and the complexity of the learning outcomes. Each credit represents a notional 10 hours of learning.
The system allows for the accumulation of credits towards a qualification, regardless of the institution or program in which the learning was achieved. This means that a learner can accumulate credits from multiple institutions or programs and transfer them to a new program or DHET institution in order to complete a qualification.
For example, if a learner has completed a module worth 12 credits at a level 5 institution, and they want to transfer to a level 6 institution, the new institution will recognize these credits and allow the learner to continue studying towards a level 6 qualification.
In summary, the CAT system is an important tool for learners who want to continue their education and training by allowing them to transfer their credits between institutions and programs. This helps to promote lifelong learning and the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
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