UNISA

Bachelor of Arts Honours in International Politics

Human and Social Studies - Public Policy Politics and Democratic Citizenship

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Purpose and Rationale

Purpose of the Qualification

  1. Specialized Knowledge and Skills: The primary purpose of the qualification is to equip Honours Bachelor of Arts (BA) graduates with systematic knowledge, specialized skills, and theoretical competence within a specific discipline or interdisciplinary framework. This preparation aims to ready graduates for advanced specialist training.

  2. Problem Solving and Confidence: The qualification also aims to produce graduates capable of identifying and defining complex problems, as well as applying their skills confidently to find solutions. This includes the ability to navigate unfamiliar contexts effectively. The goal is to provide South Africa and other countries with individuals equipped to tackle challenging issues.

  3. Leadership and Independence: To meet the needs of South Africa and beyond, the qualification seeks to develop individuals who possess a deep understanding of a particular discipline or interdisciplinary field. Graduates should be able to operate independently as intellectual leaders in society, showcasing their thorough familiarity with their area of expertise.

Overall, the Honours BA qualification intends to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in their chosen discipline but also equipped with the necessary skills, confidence, and independence to make significant contributions in various contexts and serve as leaders in their communities.

Outcomes

  1. Identify, analyse, formulate and solve convergent and divergent problem and issues related to the natural and human environments.
  2. Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
  3. Manage and organise own activities and life responsibly and effectively, including own studies within the open and distance learning context.
  4. Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information as required.
  5. Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and for written presentation, often in pieces of 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 context.
  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 own responsibilities to those in the local and broader community.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Identify, analyse, and solve complex problems using theoretical knowledge and experiential base.
  • Offer informed suggestions and alternative strategies for problem-solving at different levels.
  • Generate alternative strategies for dealing with problems.
  • Critically evaluate theoretical standpoints and compare them to personal views.
  • Offer evidence from theoretical and experiential bases to support views.
  • Analyse global, national, and local community 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 theoretical and/or practical projects showing successful interaction.
  • Use advanced communication skills within groups.
  • Organise effective working groups.
  • Communicate 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 to develop organisational strategies.
  • Think independently and offer sustained theoretical evidence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Demonstrate research skills within a discipline.
  • Use library and other resources effectively.
  • Act responsibly as researchers.
  • Follow discipline-related conventions and guidelines.
  • Critically evaluate theories and arguments.
  • Argue appropriately within the relevant community.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 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 organisation and presentation.
  • Use statistics effectively when necessary.
  • Identify discipline-specific jargon.
  • Analyse, evaluate, and critique others' ideas.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Demonstrate a responsible attitude towards scholarship and technology.
  • Use scientific methods of investigation.
  • Select technology appropriately.
  • Use natural resources sustainably.
  • Show respect and ethical attitude towards science and technology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Demonstrate prior knowledge and experience relevant to the discipline.
  • Connect abstract theory to personal contexts.
  • Draw upon prior knowledge and personal experience for analysis.
  • Look beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries for solutions.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Summative Assessment through a written exam and research article.
  • Formative Assessment based on draft papers.
  • Assessment by internal and external examiners.
  • Validity and reliability ensured through Unisa policies.
  • Assessment types designed to test research skills, knowledge, and competence.

Formative Assessment:

  • Activities in study guides, self-assessment questions, and assignments.
  • Assessment through MCQs, short questions, essays, or a combination.
  • Feedback provided in study guides and tutorial letters.

This comprehensive assessment criteria aims to evaluate students' ability to think critically, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and demonstrate responsible scholarship across various disciplines.

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.