Sound Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Sound Operator. A Sound Operator sets up and operate audio equipment to record, edit, mix, and amplify sound in support of live, recorded and broadcast productions, performances or events. A qualified learner will be able to: • Apply Knowledge of principles and practices of audio to ensure satisfactory quality sound. • Prepare audio sound equipment for use. • Operate equipment to record, edit, mix, enhance/ amplify/ master sound to ensure satisfactory quality. • Perform basic equipment maintenance. • Practice basic business management.

The need for this qualification was established through the MICT sector skills planning process and the occupation of Sound Operator is reflected as one of the top 5 hard to fill vacancies in the Film and Electronic media sub-sector according to the 2021 MICT Sector Skills Plan. The re-alignment of this qualification was necessitated by the changing nature of the world of work, and its resultant impact on the required outcomes relevant to operating as a Sound Operator today. For this reason, the qualification outcomes embed the use of electronic systems as well as business skills to support electronic communication in an interconnected world. Other than the qualifications to be replaced, there are no similar qualifications registered on the OQSF, however qualifications exist in the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework. It is envisaged that this occupational qualification will provide an entry pathway into the Higher Education qualifications. This qualification will contribute to the economy by producing Sound Operators who are able to operate as freelancers with a foundational understanding of business skills, including marketing of services as well as business communication. These freelance or 'gig workers' are a growing phenomenon globally but has been a prevalent practice in the Sound industry as professionals tend to be contracted for their services in terms of production projects. This qualification also contributes to society by enabling the decentralised development of audio skills that have traditionally been developed in more urban/ metropolitan areas, thereby distributing the critical skill more equitably across the country. The qualification will also support the employment pipeline for media entities operating in the space and may therefore address issues of unemployment. The qualification also provides a bridge between the related sub-sectors of Film, Television and Multi-media which has traditionally had limited entry points. The qualification will accommodate school leavers and qualifying learners with no work experience as well as existing workers in the industry who want to progress. Qualifying learners will be able to operate as Sound Assistants, Junior Sound Technicians, Sound Technicians and will meet the educational requirements for accessing the professional designation pathway from the South Africa Communications Industry Association (SACIA) who were part of the development process.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part-qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. • RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Any NQF Level 4 qualification.

• Demonstrate informed understanding of the key terms, concepts, facts, general principles, rules and theories of sound.
• Identify appropriate formats and protocols for the generation, distribution and transmission of analogue and digital sound signals.
• Assess sound quality using aural and measurement skills.
• Interpret sound requirements and demonstrate ability to select and apply standard methods, procedures or techniques to plan, set up, test and operate sound equipment, data storage, backup and transmission equipment.
• Identify and re-configure components to solve defined, routine and new problems within a familiar context.
• Apply general understanding of business principles to offer Sound Technician services commercially.
• Explain the associated legal implications of breaching intellectual property/ copyright laws.
• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team or group, and to take responsibility for your own decisions and impact on others within well-defined contexts.