Bachelor of Science Honours in Biology
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Life Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose: The purpose of this honours qualification is to provide a student who has already attained a first degree in the field of Biology with further expertise in this particular field, so that he/she will find opportunities for continuing personal intellectual development, value-added economic activity and awarding contributions to the community. The qualification is also aimed at stimulating and preparing learners for further academic study and research by the provision of the required knowledge, skills and insight to develop as researchers on a high academic level. Accordingly, the qualification must embody aspects of academic training such as understanding of the scientific literature as well as furtherance of the requirements of research in the field of Biology.
Rationale: It is widely accepted that South Africa suffers a shortage of well-trained, critically thinking natural scientists, who are capable of independent, high-quality research. This qualification is aimed at providing South Africa with significant numbers of graduates in the natural sciences who have the necessary research skills and tools to undertake advanced research in the field of Biology under the guidance of an expert. These scientists will ensure the broadening of the local leadership base for innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholarly activity.
The second rationale of this qualification is to provide learners with the necessary knowledge, specific skills, applied competence, and professional attitude in the field of Geography to utilize the opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity, and rewarding contributions to society. The qualification will also equip learners with the tools necessary for them to enter a path to be professional academic scientists in the field of Biology. Most professional scientific bodies in South Africa take a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours or equivalent as the minimum qualification for registration as a scientist. Thus, the program will embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a professional natural scientist in the work environment.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate integrated and advanced knowledge of and engagement in Biology and understand the theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques relevant to this field of study as well as be able to apply this knowledge to research in the forefront of Biology.
- Demonstrate the ability to interrogate multiple sources of knowledge in Biology and as an individual and/or in teams evaluate knowledge and processes of knowledge production and integration.
- Use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to this field of study.
- Critically review information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in specialised contexts in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
- Produce and communicate information by effectively presenting and communicating academic and professional or occupational ideas and texts to a range of audiences, offering creative insights, meaningful interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Biology.
- Demonstrate an understanding the role of the natural sciences in society, appreciate the fundamentals of lifelong learning and understand both the professional and ethical basis of scientific enquiry.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria
- Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyze, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
- Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
- Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
- Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
- Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.
Assessment Methods
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Integrated Assessment: Formative or Continuous assessment
- Purpose: Monitor student progress and teaching effectiveness
- Methods: Class tests, homework, written assignments, report writing, practicals, class discussions, semester tests
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Summative Assessment
- Purpose: Determine achievement of module and Exit Level Outcomes
- Methods: Written exam papers and oral presentations
These assessment methods are crucial in evaluating student understanding, progress, and readiness to enter the professional world, while also providing feedback for continuous improvement in teaching methodologies.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 128
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.