Entry Requirements
To be eligible for the ICTQUAL Level 8 Professional Diploma in Qualification Development and Delivery, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications:
- A Level 7 Diploma in a relevant subject area, such as Education, Curriculum Development, Training and Development, or a related field.
- Alternatively, a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline that demonstrates a strong foundation in education, curriculum design, or qualification development.
- Professional Experience:
- Candidates without formal academic qualifications may be eligible for admission based on a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in qualification development, curriculum design, training management, or a related field.
- This experience should be verifiable through documented evidence, such as employment records, letters of recommendation, or certificates of achievement.
- Relevant Field:
- Applicants should have experience or qualifications in fields related to education, training, curriculum development, or qualification design and delivery.
- Relevant fields may include but are not limited to education, vocational training, corporate training, instructional design, or workforce development.
- Language Proficiency:
- Proficiency in the language of instruction (typically English) is required to successfully engage with course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assessments.
The ICTQUAL Level 8 Professional Diploma in Qualification Development and Delivery aims to attract candidates with a strong academic background or extensive professional experience in education and training. The entry requirements are designed to ensure that participants possess the requisite knowledge, skills, and experience to excel in the advanced study of qualification development and delivery.
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Study Unit 1: Foundations of Qualification Development
Introduction to Qualification Frameworks:
Gain a deep understanding of qualification frameworks and their significance in education and training systems.
Differentiate between various types of qualification frameworks, including national, regional, and international frameworks.
Comprehend the principles of alignment, progression, and recognition within qualification frameworks.
Curriculum Design and Development:
Demonstrate proficiency in curriculum design principles, including competency-based and outcomes-based approaches.
Develop skills for identifying learning outcomes, designing learning activities, and assessing student achievement effectively.
Explore strategies for ongoing curriculum review, renewal, and continuous improvement to enhance educational outcomes.
Study Unit 2: Assessment and Evaluation Strategies
Assessment Design and Development:
Acquire knowledge of diverse assessment methods, such as formative, summative, authentic, and criterion-referenced assessment.
Apply principles of validity, reliability, fairness, and transparency to design assessments aligned with learning outcomes.
Demonstrate the ability to create assessment tasks and rubrics that accurately measure student achievement and performance.
Evaluation of Learning and Teaching:
Understand the role of evaluation in monitoring and enhancing teaching and learning effectiveness.
Evaluate student learning outcomes, course effectiveness, and program quality using appropriate evaluation methods.
Utilize feedback mechanisms to gather input from students and stakeholders for continuous improvement of curriculum and instruction.
Study Unit 3: Quality Assurance and Compliance
Quality Assurance in Education and Training:
Explore quality assurance frameworks and mechanisms to ensure the quality and integrity of qualifications.
Evaluate the functions of accreditation, certification, and regulatory bodies in maintaining quality assurance standards.
Apply strategies for monitoring and evaluating compliance with quality standards and requirements effectively.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation:
Apply continuous improvement strategies to enhance qualification development and delivery processes.
Utilize data gathering and analysis techniques to inform improvement initiatives and decision-making.
Foster a culture of innovation and creativity within educational institutions and training organizations to adapt to evolving needs and challenges.
Study Unit 4: Technology-Enhanced Learning and Delivery
Integration of Technology in Education:
Explore innovative uses of technology to enhance teaching, learning, and assessment practices.
Utilize learning management systems (LMS), digital resources, and educational technologies to facilitate online and blended learning experiences.
Design and implement technology-enhanced learning experiences that engage learners and promote effective educational outcomes.
Accessibility and Inclusivity:
Recognize the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in educational settings.
Apply universal design principles and accessibility standards to create digital learning materials and platforms that accommodate diverse learners.
Implement strategies for creating inclusive learning environments that foster equity and diversity among learners.
Research Project: Advanced Topics in Qualification Development and Delivery
Topic Selection and Proposal Development:
Select and justify a specific advanced topic within the field of qualification development and delivery for research.
Develop a research proposal outlining research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Literature Review and Conceptual Framework:
Conduct a comprehensive literature review to identify relevant theories, concepts, and empirical studies related to the chosen research topic.
Develop a conceptual framework to guide the research study and provide theoretical context.
Data Collection and Analysis:
Collect and analyze primary or secondary data using advanced research methods and techniques.
Apply appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques to explore research questions and hypotheses effectively.
Findings and Recommendations:
Present research findings, critically analyze results, and draw meaningful conclusions.
Provide evidence-based recommendations for practice, contributing to the advancement of qualification development and delivery in the field.
Future Progression
Upon successful completion of the ICTQUAL Level 8 Professional Diploma in Qualification Development and Delivery, graduates can explore various avenues for future progression. While this qualification is not equivalent to a Ph.D., it provides a solid foundation for further academic and professional advancement. Here are some potential pathways for graduates:
- Further Academic Studies: Graduates may choose to pursue advanced academic studies, such as a Ph.D. in Education, Curriculum Development, or related fields. The knowledge and skills acquired during the diploma program can serve as a strong foundation for doctoral research and academic career development.
- Professional Development: The diploma equips graduates with advanced competencies in qualification development, assessment, and quality assurance. They may seek opportunities for professional development, such as attending workshops, conferences, or specialized training programs to stay updated on the latest trends and practices in education and training.
- Leadership Roles: Graduates may aspire to leadership roles in educational institutions, training organizations, or government agencies responsible for qualification development and delivery. With their advanced understanding of curriculum design, assessment strategies, and quality assurance, they are well-positioned to lead teams and initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes.
- Consultancy and Advisory Services: Some graduates may choose to leverage their expertise by offering consultancy and advisory services to educational institutions, training providers, or government agencies. They can provide guidance on curriculum development, assessment design, quality assurance processes, and technology integration to enhance the effectiveness of educational programs.
- Research and Publishing: Graduates may engage in research activities to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of qualification development and delivery. They can conduct empirical studies, evaluate educational interventions, or develop innovative approaches to address emerging challenges. Publishing research findings in academic journals or presenting at conferences can further establish their expertise and credibility in the field.
- Global Networking and Collaboration: The diploma program provides graduates with opportunities to network with professionals and experts in the field of education and training, both locally and internationally. They can leverage these connections to collaborate on research projects, share best practices, and participate in cross-cultural learning experiences, thereby enriching their professional development.
It’s important to note that while this qualification is not equivalent to a Ph.D., its credits can be considered for further academic or professional recognition. Additionally, successful candidates of this qualification will be eligible for fellow membership of ICTQual, further enhancing their professional standing and recognition within the industry.