CIMAP advances assessment excellence

The
Chartered
Institute for
the
Management
of
Assessment
Practice
(CIMAP)
Advancing industry
excellence in assessment
practice!

Board Members:

Chairperson:
D.E Damons MSc; (FCIEA U.K)
Vice-Chairperson:
Prof. M. Mehl,

Prof. W. Goosen, (FCIEA U.K);
Mr. T. Tshabalala;
Dr. W. Guest-Mouton;
Mrs. T. Moeshoeshoe
Dr. M. Serfontein, (FCIEA U.K);
Mr. P. Mathebula, (MA)
Dr. K. Deller;
Mrs. R. Pillay (M.Ed.);
Dr. L. Meyer, (FCIEA U.K);
Mrs. A. Roode B.Com. (Hons)

16 Republic Road, Bordeaux,
Randburg, 2125.

Tel: (011) 329-9000 –
extension: 9034

Assessment Talk...
Fax 086 218 4466,

Web site: www.cimap.co.za,
E-mail admin@cimap.co.za

Newsletter:
Editor: L. Meyer
Sub Editor: H. Edwards

Chartered Institute for the Management of
Assessment Practice
Issue 5 – May 2012
Extraordinary services for the promotion of quality in assessment practices.

CIMAP Core Values: - Integrity, Credibility & Discipline © 2012 www.cimap.co.za 1

WHAT HOPE FOR OUR EDUCATION We all have the experience of schooling with its
MESSAGE FROM inherent intellectual hierarchy that firmly embeds the
SYSTEM? idea that “some (few) have it but many do not”. It is
THE VICE-
surprising how many people carry this measure of
CHAIRPERSON: Article by Professor M. Mehl - CIMAP Vice Chair “relative cleverness” with them through their life.

PROF M C MEHL The statistics are dismal. In January 2000, around 1.2 Very few people regard themselves as capable of
million children enrolled in Grade 1 full of hope of a genius in any field. If this process can be initiated in
bright future. 12 years later in 2011, some 50 % of them areas in which the individual has always struggled,
Dear Members, only write the matriculation examination. then the enabling process will have begun.

It is hard to imagine that almost 17 years have passed Around 50% of those who write do mathematics, not We have a unique opportunity in South Africa to do
since SAQA came into existence at the dawn of mathematics literacy – generally regarded as a dead- this on a national scale. The advent of CIMAP is an
democracy in the country. The SETA concept was end subject. Of those who write mathematics, around important contributor to the effort at re-
promulgated in 1998, making it almost 14 years old. 30% only achieve more than 40% of the marks while just conceptualization and renewal of our prevailing
12% of them get more than 50% - around 36000 in all. system of education.
While this is young in educational terms with So, of the 1.2 million who started 12 years ago, just 3%
universities boasting centuries-old existence and of them pass mathematics with more than 50% of the The centrality of dynamic assessment, carried out
formal schooling well into its second century, final mark. within a framework of intensive, sustained and
nevertheless much was expected from these bodies as knowledgeable endeavour focused on improving not
part of the ambitious transformation agenda South That this is a disaster is obvious. Its impact plays out only the capabilities of the individual, but of the
Africa set itself. further up the line when we compare the number of nation as a whole, should not be under-estimated.
engineers our universities produce in comparison, per
And if we are fair we will acknowledge that in certain capita to a country like India, or indeed any of the Professor M. C. Mehl
areas there has been progress. A large number of new rapidly emerging economies.
qualifications now exist on the SAQA database.
While we need not lionize mathematics, it is a good gold About Prof. Merlyn Claude Mehl Ph.D.
Workplace learning has started coming more to the standard for some measure of quality in education
fore, especially with the operationalization of the
(Physics):
provision. In addition, in truth we seem to constantly be
QCTO. going in the opposite direction. The pass mark at school CIMAP is extremely grateful to our Vice Chair,
level is now 30%. Imagine that! Professor Merlyn Mehl for the time and effort he
Assessment and Moderation are now a part of the
educational vocabulary in the country in a way it was commits to the professionalisation of the ETDP
A learner can be blissfully incompetent in 70% of a sector. As the previous SAQA NSB chairperson, and
never before. It is no accident that among the very subject and can still be deemed competent enough to
first unit standards developed by SAQA were those for board member and Chairperson of W&R SETA in its
“Pass”. I notice in a recent copy of the QCTO Newsletter earlier years, as well as his involvement over many
accrediting assessors. that the issue of Fundamental learning – mathematics years with local and overseas universities, Prof Mehl
and communication – in SAQA qualifications (as is a true stalwart of excellence in educational.
In addition, of course, the SETAs at establishment minimalist as these were in the first place) has been
vigorously pursued these areas even before they had “refined” and a part qualification – “Foundational
qualifications to assess! Prof Mehl is currently the the Executive Chairman of
Learning Competency” – is now interposed. Triple L Holdings. Prof. Mehl served as Chancellor of
But truth be told, the education scene in South Africa is Peninsula Technikon and Chief Executive of the
Why do we always keep lowering the bar instead of Independent Development Trust. He was a senior
extremely depressing. I think that all involved in those raising it and developing the methodologies that
early days underestimated the difficulty of changing professor at UWC, and has been awarded
enable? extraordinary professor status.
the formal system with all its historical baggage.
The irony of the situation in South Africa is that we are Prof Mehl has served as a non-executive director of
School and university practice change only very slowly now better equipped than at any time in our history to
if at all. Unintended consequences of dramatic policy Capitec Bank since its inception in 2001. He is
bring about dramatic improvements in the situation. currently the Lead Independent Director on the
change are very difficult to foresee. If we are honest, We have in place a government that spends an
we will admit that we have simply not created an Board.
inordinate amount of its budget on education.
education system of unqualified excellence where high Additionally it has signalled very clearly that education is
standards are not only required but expected of all Prof Mehl served as the Director of Gold Fields
a major priority of government. Science & Mathematics Centre between 1983 – 1987,
learners.
and has held a number of other prestigious positions
From the didactic side is the fact that we now know in the private and public sectors.
The original purpose of SAQA – an educational system more about how the brain works and how proficiency
with seamless transition between and across both, and competence develops in any area of human
levels as well as learning institutions, formal and non- Awards
endeavour, than at any time in human history. In the
formal has simply not been realized. Therefore, aluta last 20 years, we have learnt 95% of what we today
continua.  University of South Carolina / Visiting Professor
know of the human brain.
 University Illinois / Fellowship
Because Assessors and Moderators ensure quality in a Recent books on the subject propose a very seductive  University of Washington / Senior Africa Research
system, the formation of CIMAP is a very welcome step message: every human is born with unimaginable ability Fellowship
as we continue to drive toward excellence defined by and capacity. We are capable of achieving anything we  University of London/ Visiting Fellow
the adherence to high standards. It is time that these want if we go about it properly.  Da Vinci Institute / Research Supervisor
central figures in the S.A. Educational landscape enjoy
the professional stature they deserve. This does not mean that the opportunity to achieve is Tertiary Education
the same for everybody – obviously it is not – but rather
May it prove to be the home where assessment theory that we are all born with stupendous potential. Some  Doctor of Philosophy (UCT)
and practice can enjoy the stature it deserves. titles that illustrate this by drawing on recent research  Master of Science – Nuclear Physics (UNISA)
include:

Professor Merlyn Mehl  The genius in all of us: David Shenk We cannot solve our problems with the same
 The Talent Code: Daniel Coyle thinking we used when we created them.
 Talent is Overrated Geoff Colvin - Albert Einstein
 Outliers Malcolm Gladwell
 The Myth of Ability John Mighton

to indicate but a few.
“We acknowledge Professor Merlyn Mehl for the
The challenge, of course, is to translate this research time and effort he commits to the professionalisation
into reality in the lives of every individual. Few people of the ETDP sector. As the previous SAQA
get anywhere near to realizing this potential and, in fact,
Please view Professor Merlyn Mehl’s discussion NSB chairperson, and board member and
the majority of people in all likelihood, do not even
on common misconceptions about IQ and IQ believe it! Chairperson of W&R SETA in its earlier years,
assessments. as well as his involvement over many years with
How can this be changed? While everybody can read local and overseas universities, Prof Mehl is a true
the research, some of the ideas we all hold about talent.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoqJNRS1oa4 Intelligence, genetic endowment and creativity of stalwart of excellence in education.”
individuals are so deeply entrenched that mere reading
is unlikely to change it.


FOCUS ON THE QCTO: Some providers that failed to comply with quality An AQP coordinates and manages external assessment
standards often create tremendous hysteria around processes. An AQP develops and maintains a national
WHERETO FROM HERE? the verifier / external moderator being unfair. The true databank of instruments used in the external
merit of adhering quality standards then becomes assessment. An AQP maintains a register of assessors
secondary. and moderators from which assessors and moderators
Article by Dr L. Meyer - CIMAP Board Member for the external summative assessment are selected.
Similarly, verifiers / external moderators that have no
The Quality Council on Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is industry experience or qualifications apply arbitrary An AQP recommends to the QCTO the accreditation of
one of the three Quality Councils stipulated in the criterion, which is not based in law, regulation, skills development providers for the knowledge and or
National Qualifications Framework Act (NQF Act No 67 of substance or fact. Professional bodies will logically use practical skills components. An AQP recommends to
2008).The QCTO is accountable for standards setting and qualified and competent practitioners in their the QCTO the certification of learners.
industries, and address unacceptable quality
quality assurance of occupational qualifications for the
standards. What are the rules of combination for occupational
Trades and Occupations sub framework. The QCTO qualifications?
recommends qualifications for registration on the South The QCTO success is fundamental to redress and A minimum of 20% credits are required for each of the
African National Qualifications Framework. transformation opportunities. Strategic Leadership and three components (Knowledge, practical skills, and
work experience). This means that the remainder of
skilled incumbents are key to the emergence of third
The Minister of Higher Education and Training, in 40% of the credits can be added to any component to
tier evolution structure. Quality education will support support the purpose of the qualification.
consultation with the Minister of Basic Education, has
employment prospects of industry credible graduates.
determined government's strategy and priorities for the
NQF as required by NQF Act (No. 67 of 2008) for the What are the types of occupational qualifications that
period up to 31 March 2012. QCTO Curriculum and Assessment Policy may be can be developed?
downloaded using the following link: The QCTO has two types of occupational qualifications,
The main purpose of the guidelines is to give direction to http://www.saqa.org.za/docs/qcto/policy/curriculu these are:
the work of the South African Qualifications Authority m.pdf
(SAQA) and the three Quality Councils (QCs): the Quality National Occupational Qualifications: 120+ Credits
Council on Trades and Occupations (QCTO), Umalusi and CIMAP fully supports the QCTO, and looks forward to National Occupational Awards: 25-119 Credits
the Council on Higher Education (CHE). the valuable contribution it will bring to the
occupational learning and teaching landscape. Acronyms used in the QCTO environment
AQP Assessment Quality Partner
The NQF guidelines are available by using the following CEP Community of Expert Practitioner
link: SAQA QCTO - FAQ CESM Classification of Education Subject Matter
http://www.saqa.org.za/docs/guidelines/nqf.pdf CHE Council for Higher Education
SAQA Frequently Asked Questions about the QCTO are DHET Department of Higher Education & Training
The QCTO caused great excitement in its conceptual available using the following link: DQP Development Quality Partner
http://www.saqa.org.za/show.asp?include=docs/qct FLC Foundational Learning Competence
stage. This was as a direct result of private providers
o/faqs.html GFETQF General and Further Education and Training
believing that the cumbersome SETA ETQA processes Qualifications sub-Framework
would be standardised and equitable. HEQF Higher Education Qualifications sub-Framework
What is the QCTO?
ILO International Labour Organisation
QCTO stands for Quality Council for Trades and
ISCO International Standard Classification of Occupations
Things are however about to change. Providers are still Occupations. The QCTO is one of the three Quality MIS Management Information System
faced with cumbersome and frustrating processes from Councils, each responsible for a qualifications sub NAMB National Artisan Moderation Body
some ETQAs. The exceptions obviously exist, and more framework on the National Qualifications Framework. NOPF National Occupational Pathway Framework
often than not getting hold of the right person is often CHE and Umalusi are the other two. The sub NQF National Qualifications Framework
framework that the QCTO is responsible for is the OFO Organising Framework for Occupations
the difference between success and dismal failure. In
Trades and Occupations sub framework. OFL Occupational Foundational Learning
support of this assertion, the appointment of qualified OQF Occupational Qualifications sub-Framework
and competent individuals must drive the process to What is an occupational qualification? QC Quality Council
fruition. An occupational qualification is defined in the law as a QCTO Quality Council for Trades and Occupations
QDF Qualifications Development Facilitator
qualification associated with a trade, occupation or
QMS Quality Management System
Transparency, absent bureaucracy and policy certain is profession resulting from work-based learning and
RPL Recognition of Prior Learning
pivotal to streamline learner punitive processes. The consisting of three components, one for knowledge,
SAQA South African Qualifications Authority
one for practical skills and one for work experience. All SASCO South African Standard Classification of Occupations
SAQA Act, 1995 and the subsequent NQF Act, 2008 has
occupational qualifications require a final test or what SDA Skills Development Act
proposed coherency. SAQA has established the NQF is called 'an external, summative assessment' which, SETA Sector Education and Training Authority
forum that is set up to lead this process in collaboration when successfully passed, signals to the world that the SLA Service Level Agreement
with the QCs. person is able to fully perform the work of the
occupation. Please visit the SAQA website for additional
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Act No 67, information on the QCTO.
2008 replaced the South African Qualifications Authority What process do I follow to initiate a process of
developing an occupational qualification?
Act No 58 of 1995. Guidelines have been prepared in QCTO contact details:
The process of occupational qualification development
term in terms of the NQF Act (No. 67 of 2008) for the begins when a person or an organisation (the E-mail: info@qcto.org.za
period up to and including 31 March 2012. applicant) submits a request to the QCTO for an Post: Postnet Suite 248, Private Bag X 06,
Occupational Qualification to be developed. This can Waterkloof, 0145
The NQF Act now been expanded to 10 NQF levels. The be in a letter, an e-mail or even a phone call. All are Fax: 012 431 5144
three quality councils are– Umalusi, Quality Council on welcome to submit a request. The QCTO may be
SAQA House, Room 513, 5th floor, 1067 Arcadia St,
contacted at info@qcto.org.za The QCTO will advise
Trades and Occupations (QCTO), and the Council on Hatfield, Pretoria.
and guide the applicant on the process to be followed.
Higher Education (CHE). For additional information also visit:
What is the QCTO's responsibility? http://www.nqf.org.za/page/faq/qcto/index
The QCTO has announced that they will be operational by The QCTO is responsible for standards setting and
20 July 2011. The QCTO is delegating functions to the quality assurance of occupational qualifications on the THE QCTO INTRODUCES IT’S CEO
first generation of 'official' Development Quality Trades and Occupations sub framework. QCTO Ms G. Joyce Mashabela began her career in education
recommends to SAQA, qualifications for registration on as an administrator working for Middlesex County
Partners. (QCTO; 2012).
the NQF. College (a 2 year higher education institution) in
Edison, New Jersey in the U.S.A. Several years later she
The QCTO is currently supported by SAQA in their What is a Development Quality Partner (DQP)? moved to the academic side of higher education
operations. The QCTO Guidelines on Strategy and A DQP is an entity appointed by the QCTO and gaining tenure as an Assistant Professor in the
Priorities for the National Qualifications Framework delegated to manage, on behalf of the QCTO, the Business Department at Hostos Community College of
(NQF), 2011/12 is available on the SAQA web site and process of developing an Occupational Qualification. the City University of New York. Here one of her
makes for interesting reading. specialities was curriculum development where she
The QCTO has developed processes that will ensure as
designed and piloted a teaching methodology which
Please visit: far as possible that its Quality Partners have the promotes the active engagement of students in the
http://www.saqa.org.za/docs/guidelines/nqf.pdf capacity to perform their assigned tasks to the highest learning process. Furthermore, she designed the
quality standards, which include integrity, Business Internship course for students completing a
The QCTO focus on credible quality partners brings transparency and fitness for purpose. vocational qualification in Information Systems. In
particular hope. Without Industry being actively involved What is an Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)? 1996 she relocated to South Africa where she has,
in the architecture of skill planning for their sectors, little among other things, served as the Rector of a private
An AQP is an entity appointed by the QCTO and
hope exists that industry will create uptake opportunities Further Education and Training College and as a
delegated to manage, on behalf of the QCTO, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Tshwane University of
for graduates. The current verification / external assessment process. An AQP is responsible for Technology.
moderation processes applied by SETAs are diverse in developing, maintaining and implementing external T: 012 312 5369 F: 012 326 6526
nature. assessments. E-Mail: mashabela.j@dhet.gov.za


Registered DHET FET I conclude with an argument: I have married a dentist,
the Health Professional Council of South Africa does
 Practitioner Assessor - 1-3 years' experience in
educational assessment, and must have achieved a
Provider Forum
not send a verifier to verify whether he is able to do a National Diploma (NQF 5) (PCIMAP);
“ filling, he is trained and qualified to do that.
 Fellow Assessor - Fellowship is available to the
On the contrary, I am a Doctor in Adult Education, I most experienced and expert practitioners in
PRIVATE PROVIDERS: have more than twenty years result orientated educational assessment (at least 5 years) and a
THE FLIP SIDE OF THE COIN! operational experience, yet, a lot of my time is being NQF 6 level qualification (FCIMAP).
taken up by (unnecessary) verifications by often less  Chartered Assessor (CCIMAP). Master’s degree
Article by Dr. Wilma Guest Mouton experienced and less qualified people. and five years of educational assessment
CIMAP Board member & FET Provider Forum experience.
The South African government needs to embrace and
Convener  Master Assessor (MCIMAP). Doctoral degree and
acknowledge the expert and committed citizens and
give credit where credit is deserved, even if it is a extensive assessment and moderation experience.
It is interesting to read and hear what is being said about
private provider.
private providers and their greed… All members in good standing that seek to register
LIST or DHET registered FET & HET Providers s with the Chartered Institute for Educational
When I was asked the other day what was our “claim to available in the CIMAP web site. Assessment (U.K) will be in a position to do so from 01
fame” as a successful private provider for nearly sixteen June 2012 at CIMAP negotiate discounted rates for all
membership grades. Please note that CIEA Training
years, and heading a private Further Education and
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS will be conducted in South Africa. Certain membership
Training College (FET), my immediate answer was “we grades will require CDP training at negotiated rates.
have survived the system”. EXPLAINED:
The training will be conducted in South Africa.
How do I join CIMAP? Members that seek to attend the training in the U.K
What a challenging system to survive, if your primarily
objective is to “create a competent empowered will be in a position to do so if sufficient delegates
 You will have received the membership application from South Africa are available at normal U.K rates.
workforce”. form with your newsletter. Please complete it The South African CPD Activities will be
providing us with as much detail as possible and communicated shortly.
Private providers are, to my knowledge and firsthand make sure you initial each page of the Code of
experience, not funded in anyway. Conduct.
Private providers need to adhere to the quality  In addition, please provide the following in support LABOUR RELATIONS AMENDMENT
requirements of all the different Education and Training of your application: BILL, 2012
Quality Assurance Bodies (should they want to offer full  A certified copy of your ID
qualifications or subject matter unit standards).  Certified copies of certificates of your qualifications The following are, in summary, some of the major
 An abbreviated CV (resume). areas of amendment in the LRA Bill.
Year after year when SETAs published their annual  If you are a constituent assessor proof of
reports, figures and numbers of successes are published, Labour broking
registration from the relevant SETA. The Labour Relations Amendment Bill retains section
but very little has been said about the positive role and  Please e-mail your application to 198 and it will continue to apply to all employees.
impact of the private providers. admin@cimap.co.za. Temporary employment is limited to genuine
 A pro-forma invoice will be raised and sent to you temporary work that does not exceed six months. A
It is true that some private providers did cash in on the for payment. temporary employment service is the employer of
system, but that was, according to me, primarily because persons whom it pays to work for a client and the
 Once your application has been processed, you will
of poor management structures and funding windows temporary employment service and its client are
qualify as an Affiliate Member.
that were not properly thought through. jointly and severally liable for specified contraventions
 Members in good standing may apply for elevated of employment laws.
designations on the CIMAP website.
Examples of this might be short courses that were paid at  Members will receive their membership certificate Regulating contract work
for per person per day, these funds were made available and you will be added to the mailing list to receive An employee may be employed on a fixed term
to non-accredited providers as well and poor quality the regular updates and correspondence. contract for longer than six months only if the work is
checks were done. of limited duration or the employer can demonstrate
The membership application form is also available from a justifiable reason for fixing the term of the contract.
our website at www.cimap.co.za or can be sent to you The provisions relating to fixed term contracts do not
If service delivery of education and training programmes
if you e-mail admin@cimap.co.za. apply to an employer who employs less than 10
is your sole income and you depend on SETA funding, it is
employees, nor does it apply to an employer who
just about impossible to survive. The reasons for that employs less than 50 employees and whose business
Please contact us if we can be of assistance.
include: has been in operation for less than two years..

 The long and difficult process of tendering and SAQA PROFESSIONAL BODIES UPDATE Commission for Conciliation Mediation and
allocation; The SAQA Board confirmed its appreciation to Arbitration (CCMA)
professional bodies that formed part of the pilot group. The bill proposes a range of amendments to the
 The fact that providers need to carry the cost for
The final policy and criteria will be tabled at the Board provisions that deal with the operations of the CCMA.
recruitment and selection; meeting in June 2012. The exclusion of high-income earners from bringing
 First tranche payments are often only made to unfair dismissal claims to the CCMA is confirmed.
providers 25% into a Learnership (which is very
CIMAP MEMBERSHIP GRADES
problematic especially because providers need to Strikes and lockouts
Please note that all members in good standing that
carry the cost of delivery)-to my knowledge the only The amendments intend to respond to unacceptable
have received their membership certificates are now
system in the country where it is not been paid for levels of unprotected industrial action and unlawful
able to use the following acronyms behind their names.
acts in support of industrial action, including violence
education before it starts; All affiliate members may indicate their status as
and intimidation.
 The fact that providers receive only payments as follows: Ms. K. Kumalo (ACIMAP).
long as learners are deemed competent; Organisational rights and collective bargaining
Membership upgrades must be done online and are
 The average of R 15 000.00 been paid to the provider A few amendments are introduced to change the
subject to professional requirements as attached -
for competent learners versus the R 25 000.00 tax circumstances under which a Commissioner of the
www.cimap.co.za
rebate to business. CCMA may grant organizational rights where trade
unions refer disputes relating to these rights.
Professional Designation Application:
If we feel strong about growing the economy and growing  Student Member - Open to anyone with an interest
our country we need to pay attention to the important A Commissioner may consider the composition of the
in assessment. Affiliate Assessor (No status workforce, including the extent to which employees
role of private providers. awarded); are engaged in non-standard working arrangements
 Affiliate Membership - is open to anyone with an within 30 days.
It is also important to utilise providers according to interest in assessment, and confirmation of
qualifications and experience Total Quality Management achievement of the national assessor standard and
(TQM) does not mean to be over verified, sometimes by is registered with at least one ETQA - (ACIMAP); http://www.labour.gov.za/media-desk/media-
inexperienced, but qualified verifiers, with Educational statements/2012/media-briefing-by-minister-of-
labour-on-the-bills-amending-the-labour-relations-
Qualifications that does not even come close to the ones
act-and-the-basic-conditions-of-employment-act
of the person at the institute being verified.


Skills Universe published the following interesting These problems are not unique to our country, but they Private higher education enrolment rates hover
article on the proposed Green Paper are considerably more acute here than elsewhere. between 20% and 60% in most countries in Latin
America, whilst, Eastern and Central Europe have
Although government will, and must, remain the pre- also increased enrolments rates vastly from a zero
DHET'S GREEN PAPER NEEDS A eminent financier and provider of education as part of base in the early 1990s. This trend is set to continue
BROADER VISION – its mandate, there is consensus that the education and well into the future.
training system “is inadequate in quantity, diversity and
By Prof. Hoosen Rasool - MANCOSA in many, but not all instances, quality.” The engagement of the public sector with private
providers should rather be seen as a continuum
Put differently, the system is simply unresponsive to instead of a dichotomy. Surprisingly our government
The recently released Green Paper for Post-School
the needs of the economy and society – poor learning is already engaging with private providers, albeit, at
Education and Training, currently in the public
outcomes, huge inequalities, skills mismatches, lack of a minimalist level through school nutrition schemes,
comments stage, signals a radical response to transform
accessibility, funding inefficiencies, high repetition and transportation, limited subsidies for not-profit
the post-school education and training (PSET) system. It
dropout rates and management capacity constraints. schools, textbooks supply and a host of other
is arguably a hyper-ambitious document, issued by the
These problems are not unique to our country, but they services.
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), to
are considerably more acute here than elsewhere.
reconfigure the PSET architecture, advance knowledge
But government needs to go further by exploring a
creation and innovation, reduce poverty and
As part of a global trend, many developed and bigger menu of policy options. The issue is not
unemployment, align provisioning to national policy and
developing countries are exploring different ways to whether our PSET system should be public or
programmatic imperatives, and contribute to inclusive
involve the private sector in financing and providing private, but rather to create a responsive system
growth and development.
education using voucher schemes, subsidies, joint through the optimal mix of institutions and
capital ventures, procuring management, student programmes.
Its goal of increasing university enrolments from 899 120
support, professional development, inspectoral,
(participation rate 16%) to 1 500 000 (participation rate
operational and maintenance services. It is a misnomer to believe that extending the role of
23%) and FET and other post-school enrolments to 4 000
private providers will reduce the government’s
000 (60% participation rate) by 2030 is by far the most
Demand-side mechanisms such as vouchers and control over a public service, limit choices or
ambitious goals that set intractable fiscal, resource and
subsidies have the advantage of promoting educational increase socio-economic segregation. Handled
implementation challenges for the post-apartheid state.
choice, competition and institutional accountability. correctly, private providers increase efficiency and
choice, and expand access to education services,
Although the paper is somewhat coy as to who will
Making private providers strategic partners in the PSET particularly for households that tend to be poorly
underwrite the costs of restructuring, it can be assumed
system can lead to improved service delivery, access, served by traditional delivery methods.
that it will require substantial public spending skewed
equity and learning outcomes.
sharply in favour of the PSETA sector leading up to 2030.
Despite considerable efforts to resuscitate our
In short, a productive education and training system. public Further Education and Training (FET) Colleges
This presents dilemmas because national development
Enhancing the role of private providers admittedly from irrelevance over the last two decades, there is
priorities also extend to other areas such as basic
requires a very smart government with the capacity to very little to show for it. The time is now ripe to
education, health, infrastructure, social welfare,
clearly define the role of private providers, design relook at the FET conundrum through a different set
policing, land reform and housing, to mention a few.
regulatory frameworks, manage relationships and of lenses.
With e-tolling, massive infrastructure development, job
performance, oversee contractual obligations and
creation and National Health Insurance taking centre
provide strong leadership. The application of smart public-private partnerships
stage on government’s priority list, any possibility of
in this sector will ensure its relevance to the
increasing taxation for already beleaguered tax-payers is
Balanced public-private partnerships in education lead national project. Private providers are closer to
likely to produce “a remedy worse than the disease”
to substantial private investments, risk sharing, industry, which is where FET Colleges ought to be.
with long-term consequences for the economy.
differentiation, innovation and technology upgrading
and specialised skills of private providers. It also Public-private partnerships are no panacea for
According to National Treasury, university dropout rates
overcomes the many inherent restrictions bedeviling solving our social and education ills, but they can
are set to remain slightly below 80% over the next three
public education provision. contribute to the solution substantively. The Green
years. This means that in exchange for pouring R26.3
Paper is replete with superlatives to “advance
billion into higher learning in 2012/13, only 167 87 will
According to UNESCO, global private enrolments have innovation”, “prolific creators of knowledge” and
graduate, followed by 179 780 in 2013/14 at a cost of
increased much faster than public enrolments in recent “high levels of excellence and innovation”, but
R28.1 billion and 189 770 students in the year after that
years. Regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle critically this is what is precisely lacking in the
for R28.1 billion. The figures for public further education
East, and South Asia are recording the largest growth in discourse.
and training are even more depressing.
the private provision of education.
There is a cogent case for involving private providers
In the face of competing social demands and fiscal
Contrary to popular belief, private providers serve a full integrally in the envisaged PSET system because
constraints, the state will be compelled to make hard
range of communities – from elites to middle and they have much to offer by way of financing and
policy and programmatic choices about PSET financing
working classes. Moreover, they reach marginalised provisioning education and training.
priorities. If the country is to produce a “single,
communities in rural areas.
coherent, differentiated and highly-articulated”
Fundamentally, this requires a paradigm shift in
There are a multitude of examples world-wide to policy thinking, new mindsets and broadened
PSET system mentioned in the Green Paper, the
support the case for greater public-private partnerships perspectives on the part of our policy-makers and
discourse needs to shift from traditional to innovative
in education and training provision. For example, stakeholders. This opportunity still prevails.
policy approaches of financing and providing education
India's enrolment figures in higher education remain
and training.
abysmally low at a mere 11 % compared to that of the
US and Canada, where over 60 % of college-age This article was printed with permission of the
There is a window of opportunity for government to
students access higher education. The latter countries author.
forge closer relationships with private education and
are strong advocates of private-public sector
training providers in this regard and define more clearly
partnerships.
their role within the system.
In the Gulf States, hundreds of millions of dollars are
CIMAP:
Fleeting references to the role of private education and
training contained in the Green Paper is symptomatic of
being spent to open branches of top US and European Excellence in Assessment
universities, such as Cornell in Qatar and the Sorbonne
the complexity of policy formulation and the need for
better public and private collaboration.
in Abu Dhabi. Late last year, the new King Abdullah Practice
University of Science and Technology opened in Saudi
Arabia with a $10 billion endowment fund that exceeds
The private education sector can add tremendous value
that of all but five American universities.
in assisting government towards meeting national goals
and injecting huge financial investments into the PSET
In China, the nine universities known as "The C9"
sector without diluting the regulatory oversight of
receive supplemental government funding to enhance
government.
their competitiveness and become China's "Ivy
League".
We must face the hard facts – private sector
participation in education at all levels is a global
The East Asian region contains the largest
phenomenon in the facing of shrinking national budgets.
concentration of countries with the proportionally
largest education private sector.
Africa. Funding inefficiencies, high repetition and
dropout rates and management capacity constraints.
Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines and the Republic of
Korea are over 70% private. Malaysia is around 50%.


INCREASING YOUR MANAGERIAL The 3,5 level is known as the “nausea” level. When we believe we matter, we behave in a fashion
Characteristics of this level include the following: Level that creates new realities. We affect people’s lives
AWARENESS LEVEL is tough: and we touch their hearts. Research shows that old
Dr Wynand Goosen (DBA; Sc.D.; PhD) people that have pets live longer. This is because
 I am only a worker
they have someone that needs them. They have a
Vice President, BHSEA & CIMAP Board Member  My influence on the situation is limited responsibility – they matter to the pet, and thus have
 Things happen to me a reason to live.
1. Functioning on the Meta Level  I am a victim of circumstances
On level 5 the manager is seen to be proactive – to
The ability to advance business thinking to a higher The manager operating on level 3,5 will struggle with take an interest in his team and to inspire people. He
level of awareness is a new concept developed with all management tasks. This manager will view his job leads, he show the way and people do not mind to
the idea of facilitating more effective communication as “implementation” rather than “leading”. Creativity follow. After all, he is creating a reality – a whole
in the workplace. The “meta” consciousness level can would be low, initiative limited and productivity world in which others may find meaning!
enable one to identify your own blind spots and problematic. Personal development of staff would be
enable you to “see” what you have not seen before. hampered. Organisational growth would be a The level 5 manager displays the following behaviour:
By increasing your level of awareness, you are able to challenge. Market adaptability would present a  Passion, drive and energy
understand the relationship you have with yourself problem.  Compassion, understanding of the views of others
and the people around you, how you influence YOUR  Insight into the task, the team and the future
life and how you co- create the reality that we all live We could, however advance management  Ability to lead without fear
in, collectively. Meta Business is about understands consciousness from level 3.5 to level 5. In order to do  Clarity of the task at hand
the systems thinking of life and building a new vision so, we need to do two things:  Willingness to learn and create a learning culture
for yourself, thus enabling you to lead more effectively  Become aware of the level we operate on  No fear of mistakes
than ever before. now  Continuous improvement
 Make concerted efforts to advance to a
higher level Quantum physics explains how human consciousness
“My relationship with you has nothing to do with
affects matter directly. It is said that matter and thus
you.” It is about me and how I perceive it. I am
Let’s consider the levels of consciousness in a bit more reality, forms as a direct result of human
responsible for my life. I create my reality. How then
detail: consciousness. That, consciousness leads to matter.
do I redirect my reality? Let’s consider the following:
Level 0: refers to non-consciousness, deep sleep So, it can be said that consciousness matters.

 Have you ever looked at your life and wondered Level 1: refers to the dream state – hypnagogic
experiences When you have meaning, you do things that matter.
why you are where you are?
Thus, you “matter” When you feel that you matter,
 Have you ever considered the possibility that you
Level 2: mere awareness, the most basic level of your life finds purpose. Once purpose is discovered,
are the creator of everything that happens to
waking consciousness. Level 2 is not focussed on your contextual awareness - understanding how you
you?
anything, but simply watching the world go by. make a difference to the world, becomes alive. Thus,
 Can you see how this very moment, as you are you now make “matter” - creating new realities,
holding this page, is the sum total of all you said where people’s lives are affected.
Level 3: At this level, self-awareness is evident.
and done, prior to this moment?
However, this awareness is dull and heavy – often
 Meta Business is about developing the skills to limited to one thing at a time. At level, the world is Level 6: On this level we develop considerable
see your life in perspective, to become aware of observed, but meaning is not clear at all. This is the meaning. Unhappiness becomes strange.
who you are and to discover yourself, in an level that Sartre called “nausea”.
attempt to create the reality that you want. Level 7: Presents a sense of freedom. At this level is
Meta Cognition is about being aware of how you Level 4: is the normal consciousness we experience appears that time itself is mastered. On this level, the
influence the physical world around you, how every day. On this level, we can cope with existence, human mind enters the mystical.
you actually create matter, and how you live in but life is seen as a battle. It is easy to fall back from
the world you create. In Meta Business we show 3. The Business Application
level 4 to 3 as the pressure mounts, seeing life again,
you how you construct your reality and how you as without meaning.
then justify the same reality, to confirm your The discussion of anything meta-physical is
belief. traditionally left to dinner talk and avoided in the
This level of awareness suggests that the locus of
control is external. On this level, one tends to believe boardroom.
 “What you accommodate is what you create. As
that the world is a big bad place. The individual is
you believe, so shall it be. “ Not anymore. Increasingly, the role of our spiritual
powerless. One is the victim and has no power to
 Ever read books like the secret? What the Bleep? change things. In such a reality, it is difficult for the selves are playing an ever increasing role in our work
Mayan Prophecies, Journey work? Do you want individual to find “purpose”. Thus, often these people life as we come to terms with who we really are –
often find it hard to obtain a job that satisfies them – spirits trying to be human, not humans trying to be
to develop an abundance mind-set? Do you want
happiness eludes them. They may even be good at a
to train your thought process to generate the life spiritual.
certain job, but fail to see what the job does for them
you want? on a personal level. Thus, without meaning,
productivity will suffer. By raising consciousness, the perspective we hold
 Life as you know it is not some random event
regarding everything changes. In a managerial
that happened to you. You are no victim of a
Victor Frankl, a prisoner of World War II, believed that position, it enables the ability to see situations from
conspiracy. Your job, your family and your reality
a person can cope with “any how” when they have “a multiple angles. A manager with more insight can
are not the result of fruit theft by your
reason why” and thus survived the Nazi concentration manage a workforce with so much more insight, thus
forefathers! Even when you are a victim, you are
camps. Thus, if we are to address productivity, it starts delivering so much more results!
the perpetrator, the creator of your reality!
with creating meaning. However, meaning also
requires understanding the big picture. Thus, we need Higher awareness also suggests higher creativity
2. The levels of awareness
to know why we are doing what we’re doing, and we levels. More angles, more dimensions and more
need to see how it makes sense in the world out there. options makes for better quality decisions.
The levels of awareness or consciousness can be
We need to feel that we matter. If we do not matter –
measured, using a system developed by Colin Wilson
we do not affect matter. Only then, do we feel 4. The Way forward
in 1991. This level of consciousness ultimately
compelled to act. Until then, well why should we?
determines the way you view the world, and this view,
Various ways exist to increase consciousness. Start by
your perception, determines your reality. Thus, your writing down the issues that trouble you now. Make
Level 5: spring morning consciousness…Changing from
awareness is what determines your success! a list of not more than 10 items.
a passive existence to a positive, active existence.
Claiming the locus of your life to be in your control.
The levels of awareness are measured on a scale of 1 Master of your destiny. Now things no longer happen If you only have one, that is fine too. However, if you
to 7, according to the Wilson scale. Most people you to you – in fact you start happening to things! Now life have a few, try to identify patterns between the
will meet on a daily basis operate on level 3,5 has prospects. We are happy. We matter, therefore things you identify.
we act. Cont.
consciousness.


For example, if you have a tough time with your boss, Now let us make a list of what you are going to ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY
and feel your husband is a problem, whilst you had an change and how you are going to do it. Let us plan
argument with your sister…what is the trend? your life. You are in charge… Article by Heidi D Edwards

Relationship problems, interpersonal issues, conflicts? 5. Conclusion Salutations Practitioners!
You decide. Remember, you do not need to try to
hide. You will only hide from yourself…so be honest. It You would be a better manager and team leader This month sees the advent of two new interesting
is only you and I that will know, and frankly, I am not because you have a vision of what you can change. and really useful services at CIMAP – Practitioner
that bothered – you see, what you think does not You know you can bring ideas to manifest and you Counseling and Practitioner Ethics Reporting.
influence my reality… lead from the heart. You know yourself and your
The stress and strain of daily living means that more
weaknesses and are assured of your strengths and and more people act in a manner contrary to the
From the trauma, your reality will be defined. This will talents and how to use them to make your visions values inculcated by our Mothers; as Practitioners we
be done during the contact session. Once you come to fruition, both for yourself your team and are often subjected to the ire and bad temper of
completed this part, you have started to look at your your company. You will see what others do not. You Learners.
reality from an objective perspective. will truly see what you see…
My journey as a Practitioner has been punctuated by
tremendous growth – a blossoming in the Reflexive
Step two: Define the reality quadrant of my competency. How have I managed? I
To define your reality, is to consider all that is in it. have access to some wonderful people who guide and
This moment is the sum total of all you said and did, assist me when I feel that I need guidance. Now
prior to this moment. This moment is the result of the CIMAP is making this service available to YOU in the
recipe that is your life. Take a moment and ponder – form of Practitioner Counseling.
what is my life? Who am I? What do I think I am like?
We must stand proud as citizens who understand our
Write down your thoughts. Does your self-image
responsibilities and as Practitioners who strive to
differ from what people around you think? Did you create a business environment that is categorised by
ask them? In addition, how important is it to you what its ethical behaviour.
they think?
According to 2011 Transparency International (TI)
I am… report, South Africa is ranked 64th out of 182
countries in terms of being rife with corruption. What
Once you completed this part, you have started to A CASE FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT do you do if you know of a Practitioner who has
connect your reality with yourself, no creating
indulged in unethical behaviour, e.g. falsified reports
another perspective. You have now defined your OR taken a bribe to assign a Competent result?
By Henriette van Twisk
trauma; you looked at yourself; you considered how
others see you and you are starting to form a picture. As per the new Companies Act, CIMAP has an ‘Ethics
The world in which all professionals practise is
However, you cannot see your true self yet. You are & Accountability’ sub-committee. Under the auspices
changing. Global competition has never been more of this committee, CIMAP has made available a facility
looking back, but now just see a glimpse of the road
intense. Clients are becoming more knowledgeable that allows any CIMAP member to report behaviour
you walked. So let us stand a bit further and see if we
and more demanding. Technology continues to affect that would by common law or moral standard be
can get a clearer picture…Lets walk done the next considered ‘unethical behaviour’.
all aspects of our lives.
valley…
It is incumbent upon us as Practitioners to report
The knowledge base of the professions, and of the
Step 3: It is your fault behaviour that could damage credibility or harm us
sectors in which they operate, has also increased. individually or collectively on a professional basis.
Have you ever noticed how most people always want
With such developments come new opportunities: Please use the CIMAP Practitioner Ethics Reporting
to shift the blame of what happened in their lives to
new clients, new markets, and new areas of practice facility when you know that a Learner or a Practitioner
someone or something else? Consider this. How many
and new methods of working. These changes has behaved in an unethical manner.
people do you know that can admit when they are
demand ever-evolving knowledge, skills and
wrong? How many people apologised to you in your Contact CIMAP on admin@cimap.co.za or 011 329
understanding and an increasing demonstration of
life? Even worse – make a list of your friends who 9000 to find out how you can avail yourself of
commitment to lifelong professional learning.
think they are paid well…? Most people have an Practitioner Counseling and CONFIDENTIAL
empty list. By the way, do you think you are paid ANONYMOUS Practitioner Ethics Reporting and how it
All professionals are assumed technically competent can help your Continuous Professional Development.
enough for what you do? No, you don’t? That is funny.
and managerially capable. Indeed, in our knowledge-
No one seems to think they are be paid what they
intensive world some have argued that the only real Heidi D Edwards (heidi@etdpractitioner.co.za)
should be… Independent ETD Practitioner AND CIMAP Affiliate
source of sustainable competitive advantage is the
Member
ability to recognise and adapt to these changes faster
Now let’s play a game. Let’s think of the entire trauma
than the competition.
and the things you are aware of in your life, which is RELATIONSHIP FORGED WITH THE
“wrong”. Make a list…travel down this valley. Next, let
The commitment to keeping up to date is growing in CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF EDUCATIONAL
us take full responsibility for all that happened. Make
significance as an increasing number of people
a list of how it could be your fault. You do not have to ASSESSORS U.K
recognise the benefits of adopting a planned and
even really think it is, but assume it is. structured approach to post-qualification learning.
CIMAP has established a strategic relationship with
When you assume responsibility, you create a “Commitment to CPD is also an The Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors U.K.
platform from which you can analyse why you created CIMAP members have access to discounted
the reality that you did. Sure, you might need a acknowledgement that becoming membership rates to the CIEA, and access to the
guided meditation to accomplish this... However, you professionally qualified is not an end largest global assessment resource website.
could just quietly ponder… and explore the reasons http://www.ciea.org.uk/
in itself - it is merely the beginning. “
why you created the reality that you did. Only once,
you have a clear understanding of “why you created CIEA programmes will be run in South Africa as part of
Updating skills and knowledge on a continuing basis our global recognition initiative.
the experiences that you did, will you understand the
is essential to career progression, particularly given
“lessons” you are meant to learn from it.
the passing of the 'job for life' and rigorously defined
career path cultures.
Step 4: You are in control
CIMAP IS
Yes, you are. You created this entire reality. Own it.
PROUD TO BE
Only when you own it, can you change it. Do not shy CPD - to ensure currency and
away from taking responsibility for your life. ASSOCIATED
credibility in assessment WITH
Responsibility is power, it shows you how you
happened to things, as opposed to things happening
practice.
to you.


CIMAP advances assessment excellence

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