Modern civilisation as we know it would not exist without electricity and the attendant technologies that have arisen out of it, for example, communications (voice, data, Internet), computer and electronic technologies.  Just imagine the world without electricity and, therefore, without refrigeration, television, hi-fi stereo, computer, Internet or telephones.  Electrical and electronic technology ins the common thread that connect these diverse areas and those of air travel, transportation, manufacturing, mining, construction, agriculture, sports, education, medicine, entertainment, food preservation and preparation.

None of these modern marvels of the world is possible without the use of electrical and electronic technology.  Therefore, it is imperative that persons, wishing to understand the rapid pace of technological advancement, have a good grasp of the fundamentals of electrical and electronic technology.

The CAPE Electrical and Electronic Technology syllabus is designed to provide the fundamental knowledge necessary for a lifelong career in the dynamic and exciting fields of Electrical and Electronic Technology.  More particularly, for the continued development of the Caribbean and its citizenry, it is necessary for students to be exposed to subject areas that embody current technological trends and practices of the wider world.  The CAPE Electrical and Electronic Technology syllabus, therefore, seeks to address this need by offering advanced technical and vocational training that would prepare students for the world of work.  It also seeks to satisfy the prerequisite for further training as technicians and engineers in specific areas.

The CAPE Electrical and Electronic Technology syllabus is expected to:

• Facilitate articulation with this field of study provided by institutions of higher learning such as universities, community colleges, technical institutes and teachers’ colleges;
• Provide a means whereby persons, with an interest and commitment to the field of Electrical and Electronic engineering, can upgrade their previously acquired knowledge base and skills;
• Encourage further development of analytical, problem-solving and experimental abilities;
• Equip students with fundamental knowledge for the world of work in the electrical and electronic field;
• Provide the foundation for further career development.

The syllabus aims to:

• Develop an interest in, and an awareness of, career choices and options for further study in the field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering;
• Develop analytical, practical and experimental skills in the use of electrical and electronic technology in industry;
• Develop an awareness of practical applications of electricity and electronics within industry;
• Provide opportunities for the acquisition of advanced knowledge of the concepts and fundamentals of electricity and electronics;
• Encourage the adoption of specific safety practices;
• Inculcate an appreciation of the pivotal role of electricity in the socio-economic development of their country and the region.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units.  Each Unit consists of three Modules, each Module requiring 50 contact hours.

Unit 1: Electrical Theory and Communication

• Module 1: DC Circuit Theory
• Module 2: Analogue Electronics and Communications
• Module 3: Introduction to Electrical Power Systems

Unit 2: Energy Converters and Logic Circuits

• Module 1: AC Circuit Theory
• Module 2: Digital Electronics and Data Communications
• Module 3: Introduction to AC Machines