Introduction
WJEC Level 1/2 Awards in Engineering offer a learning experience that focuses learning for 14-16 year olds through applied learning, i.e. acquiring and applying knowledge, skills and understanding through purposeful tasks set in sector or subject contexts that have many of the characteristics of real work.
The course
The qualification is built from discrete units, but allows for both synoptic learning and assessment. Each unit has an applied purpose which acts as a focus for the learning in the unit. The applied purpose is the vehicle through which the learning contained in the unit is made relevant and purposeful. It is also the means by which learners are enthused, engaged and motivated to study engineering. The applied purpose provides the opportunity for authentic work related learning, but more than this, it will require learners to consider how the use and application of their learning impacts on individuals, employers, society and the environment. The applied purpose will also enable learners to learn in such a way that they develop:
ꞏ skills required for independent learning and development
ꞏ a range of generic and transferable skills
ꞏ the ability to solve problems
ꞏ the skills of project based research, development and presentation
ꞏ the fundamental ability to work alongside other professionals, in a professional environment
ꞏ the ability to apply learning in vocational contexts.
Assessment
Performance bands are provided for Level 1 Pass, Level 2 Pass, Level 2 Merit and Level 2 Distinction.
Evidence must clearly show how the learner has met the standard for the higher grades.
Progression
The qualifications have been devised around the concept of a ‘plan, do, review’ approach to learning where learners are introduced to a context for learning, review previous learning to plan activities, carry out activities and review outcomes and learning. This approach mirrors engineering production and design processes and also provides for learning in a range of contexts thus enabling learners to apply and extend their learning. As such, the qualification provides learners with a broad appreciation of work.