Civil Technology
Civil Technology introduces learners to the basics needed in engineering graphics and design. Additionally, learners gain an idea of the way engineers apply scientific principles to practical problems. Civil Technology focuses on concepts and principles in the built environment and on the technological process. It embraces practical skills and the application of scientific principles. This subject aims to create and improve the built environment to enhance the quality of life of the individual and society and to ensure the sustainable use of the natural environment.From the beginning to the end of each day, engineering technologies improve the ways that we communicate, travel, stay healthy and entertain ourselves.
Purpose
Technology education was introduced into the South African curriculum in recognition of the need to produce the engineers, technicians and artisans needed in modern society, particularly in the building industry.
Curriculum
- Safety
- Materials
- Equipment
- Graphics and communications
- Terminology
- Applied mechanics
- Construction
- Civil services
- Quantities
- Joining
Should I take this subject?
If this field interests you, then you should follow it. There are many careers that you would be able to follow in this field.
Careers
Careers related to Civil Technology can be found in the Trades and Engineering Fields.
Electrical Technology
Description
Electrical Technology focuses on the understanding and application of electrical and electronic principles. There are three main areas of specialisation, namely:
• Electrical
• Electronics
• Digital Systems
Purpose
Electrical Technology as a whole aims to equip the learner with a firm foundation in electronic and electrical principles which have been translated from a knowledge base into practical skills by the end of Grade 12.
Curriculum
- safe work practices
- good housekeeping
- first aid practices
- interpreting circuit diagrams
- sourcing components
- constructing circuits
- installation, testing and troubleshooting of circuits
- taking measurements
- workshop practice.
Should I take this subject?
Knowledge of subject principles combined with applied electrical skills equips the Electrical Technology learner with a unique set of skills, placing her/him apart from other learners and in a category much desired by industry, tertiary institutions and entrepreneurs. Learners with Electrical Technology fare much better, during the first two years at tertiary level, than learners without this background, giving them the advantage when studying engineering.
Careers
Careers related to Civil Technology can be found in the Trades and Engineering Fields.
Mechanical Technology
Mechanical Engineering involves a variety of assembly methods and techniques to maintain basic mechanical equipment and assemblies, design and development of machinery, ranging from simple mechanisms up to more complex machines. In other words, it focuses on concepts and principles in the mechanical (motor, mining, shipping, rail, power generation, etc.) environment and on technological processes. It embraces practical skills and the application of scientific principles.
Purpose
This subject aims to create and improve the engineering and manufacturing environment to enhance the quality of life of the individual and society and ensure the sustainable use of the natural environment. Learners will be able to use an understanding of core concepts such as kinetics and thermodynamics (application of heat and mechanical power) to create and analyse a wide variety of machines and processes.
Curriculum
- safety - Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act;
- tools and equipment;
- materials - ferrous and non-ferrous materials and alloys and the iron-carbon equilibrium diagram;
- terminology - manufacturing processes with reference to lathes (diameter turning, taper cutting, screw cutting) and milling machines (cutting methods, dividing head, centring of cutter);
- joining methods - permanent (welding) and semi-permanent (bolts, nuts and rivets) joints;
- forces - forces, moments, Young’s modulus, stress and strain;
- maintenance;
- systems and control:
- mechanical - gears, belts, pulleys, power transmission, chains, clutches, cams, levers, etc;
- hydraulics - pistons, valves, Pascal’s law;
- pneumatics;
- electrical wiring - starting and charging circuits; and
- electronic applications - anti-lock braking system (ABS), fuel injection, air bag control, etc.;
Should I take this subject?
If you have an interest in engines and machinery, you will enjoy this subject.
Careers
Careers related to Civil Technology can be found in the Trades and Engineering Fields.