UNISA

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Information Science

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Information Technology and Computer Sciences

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Purpose and Rationale

The primary purpose of the qualification is to provide Honours Bachelor of Arts (BA) graduates with:

  1. Systematic knowledge, specialised skills, and theoretical competence focusing on a particular discipline or within an interdisciplinary framework.
  2. Preparation for specialist training at an advanced level.

Additionally, the qualification aims to provide South Africa (and other countries) with graduates who:

  1. Possess in-depth knowledge and the confidence to identify and define complex problems.
  2. Have the skills to find solutions to those problems, particularly within unfamiliar contexts.
  3. Demonstrate thorough familiarity with a specific discipline or interdisciplinary framework.
  4. Can perform independently as intellectual leaders in their society.

Outcomes

  1. Identify, analyse, formulate, and solve convergent and divergent problems of living, of individual and societal kinds, creatively and innovatively.
  2. Work effectively with others as members and leaders of a team, group, organisation, community, and provide leadership to the group output in tasks growing out of the fields traditionally considered as the humanities.
  3. Manage and organise their activities and life responsibly and effectively, including their studies and careers.
  4. Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  5. Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation, in sustained discourse.
  6. Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health and well-being of others, in community, national and global contexts.
  7. 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 in the local and broader community.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:

  • Identify, analyse, and solve complex problems by drawing on experience and theoretical knowledge.
  • Offer informed suggestions and generate alternative strategies for problem-solving.
  • Critically evaluate theoretical standpoints and compare them to personal views.
  • Provide evidence to support views from theoretical and experiential knowledge.
  • Analyse global, national, and local community problems, needs, and opportunities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2:

  • Use 'people skills' in group situations.
  • Demonstrate respect and tolerance for diverse opinions.
  • Undertake projects to show successful interaction with others.
  • Utilize advanced communication skills within a group setting.
  • Organize and participate effectively in working groups.
  • Communicate group interactions through reporting.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3:

  • Demonstrate theoretical skills and learning strategies.
  • Organize study plans and practice effective time management.
  • Assess strengths and weaknesses to develop organizational strategies.
  • Think independently and provide sustained theoretical evidence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4:

  • Demonstrate research skills within a discipline.
  • Use library and other resources effectively.
  • Act responsibly as researchers (referencing, avoiding plagiarism).
  • Critically evaluate information and argue appropriately within the discipline.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5:

  • Communicate ideas logically with supporting evidence.
  • Evaluate academic arguments and produce sound arguments.
  • Use language competently with awareness of conventions.
  • Use appropriate models of organization and presentation.
  • Utilize statistics effectively and identify discipline-specific jargon.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6:

  • Demonstrate a responsible attitude towards scholarship and technology.
  • Use scientific methods and select technology appropriately.
  • Utilize natural resources sustainably.
  • Show respect and ethical attitude towards science, technology, and environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7:

  • Demonstrate prior knowledge and experience relevant to the discipline.
  • Connect theoretical knowledge to personal contexts.
  • Draw upon personal and abstract knowledge when analyzing the world.
  • Look beyond disciplinary boundaries for solutions.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Summative assessment through a written exam at the end of the year.
  • Research article requiring extensive research.
  • Formative assessment based on draft papers and research article.
  • Internal and external moderation of assessments.
  • Assessment in line with UNISA policies and procedures.
  • Formative assessment through various activities and assignments.
  • Summative assessment through examinations.
  • Feedback provided on activities, assignments, and examinations.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Description
UNISA, short for the University of South Africa, is a distance education institution based in South Africa. It is the largest university on the African continent and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study. UNISA provides flexible learning options, allowing students to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. The university is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population. UNISA also conducts research and collaborates with other institutions to contribute to the development of knowledge and skills in South Africa and beyond.
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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.