Bachelor of Arts Honours in Geography
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose: The qualification aims to deepen and consolidate students' undergraduate knowledge of Geography, focusing on the study of people and their relationship with the environment. It seeks to develop an understanding of various physical, social, cultural, and economic processes that shape the environment. By utilizing a wide range of geographical concepts and methodologies with real-world examples, the qualification prepares learners to become proficient in Geography for various vocational fields, including academia.
Rationale: In 2010, significant changes were made to the qualification to align with the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree, which included the introduction of compulsory research under supervision. The transition from a blended learning format to a fully online platform led to modifications in syllabi for three modules, adapting them to the online environment and the new mode of teaching. Emphasis was placed on skills like information retrieval from electronic sources such as the internet and library resources.
The core philosophy of the qualification modules is to enhance students' abilities to recognize geographical aspects within real-world issues and challenges, guiding them in applying geospatial skills to solve problems and address these challenges effectively. Graduates of this qualification are well-equipped to pursue further studies at the Master's and Doctoral levels in Geography, as well as in environmental sciences and environmental management at Levels 9 and 10. Career opportunities for successful graduates span across the public and private sectors related to the environment, academia, and secondary school teaching.
Overall, the qualification is structured to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for research-based postgraduate studies in Geography, aligning with the evolving demands and opportunities in the field.
Outcomes
- Identify, analyse, formulate and solve convergent and divergent problems and issues related to the natural environment.
- Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community, and contribute to the group output in tasks within the field of environmental management.
- Manage and organise her or his activities and life responsibly and effectively, including her or his studies within the open and distance learning context.
- Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information, as required.
- Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and for written presentation, often in pieces of sustained discourse.
- Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health and well-being of others, in community, national and global context.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem solving contexts do not exist in isolation, and by acknowledging their responsibilities to those locally and the broader community.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Identify, analyse, and solve complex and advanced abstract problems by drawing on own experience and theoretical knowledge.
- Offer informed suggestions or generate alternative strategies for dealing with problems at various levels.
- Critically evaluate theoretical standpoints and compare them to personal views.
- Support stated views with evidence from theoretical knowledge base or experiential base.
- Analyse global, national, and local communities in terms of problems, needs, and opportunities.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Use 'people skills' in group situations.
- Demonstrate respect and tolerance for diversity in reporting.
- Undertake projects to show successful interaction with others.
- Use advanced communication skills within the group.
- Organise effective working groups and report evidence of group interactions.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Demonstrate theoretical skills and learning strategies.
- Organise study plans and engage in effective time management.
- Assess strengths and weaknesses, and develop organisational strategies.
- Think independently and offer sustained theoretical evidence for decisions.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Communicate ideas logically with supporting evidence.
- Evaluate conclusions and premises in academic arguments.
- Use language competently with awareness of written/oral conventions.
- Use appropriate models of organisation and presentation.
- Use statistics effectively when necessary.
- Identify and illustrate discipline-specific jargon.
- Analyse, evaluate, and critique the ideas of others.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Similar to Outcome 4 criteria.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Demonstrate responsible attitude towards scholarship and technology.
- Use scientific methods of investigation, testing, and evaluation.
- Select technology suitable for individual or group needs.
- Utilise natural resources sustainably.
- Show respect and ethical attitude towards science, technology, and environment.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Demonstrate prior knowledge and experience relevant to the discipline.
- Connect abstract theory to personal contexts.
- Utilise personal knowledge and experience when investigating and analysing.
- Look beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries for solutions.
Integrated Assessment:
- Formative assessment includes activities, self-assessment questions, and written assignments.
- Summative assessment includes examinations per module.
- Assignments contribute to the final module mark alongside the examination.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 120
- 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.