UNISA

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Islamic Studies

Human and Social Studies - Religious and Ethical Foundations of Society

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Purpose and Rationale

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

  • Systematic knowledge
  • Specialised skills
  • Theoretical competence focusing on a particular discipline or within an interdisciplinary framework

This preparation is aimed at enabling graduates to undertake specialist training at an advanced level.

A second purpose of the qualification is to equip graduates with:

  • In-depth knowledge
  • The confidence to identify and define complex problems
  • The ability to apply skills in finding solutions to these problems, particularly within unfamiliar contexts

This will assist South Africa, as well as other countries, in developing individuals with the necessary expertise to address challenging issues.

Lastly, the qualification aims to produce graduates who can:

  • Demonstrate thorough familiarity with a specific discipline or interdisciplinary framework
  • Perform independently as intellectual leaders within society

Ultimately, the goal is to provide South Africa, and other regions, with individuals who can contribute significantly in their respective fields and act as leaders in solving complex issues.

Outcomes

  1. Identify, analyse, formulate and solve convergent and divergent problems 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

  1. Explain methods of assessing trends in contemporary Quranic sciences:

    • The student must demonstrate an understanding of various methods used to assess trends in contemporary Quranic sciences, such as analyzing scholarly articles, attending conferences, and conducting surveys among practitioners.

  2. Explain the interaction between Quranic sciences and current human sciences:

    • The student needs to illustrate how Quranic sciences intersect with disciplines like psychology, sociology, and anthropology, showing an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of Quranic studies.

  3. Explain the methodological tools developed and used in Quranic sciences:

    • The student must showcase knowledge of tools like textual analysis, historical-critical methods, and linguistic analysis commonly employed in Quranic studies.

  4. Display a firm understanding of Hadith literature and criticism:

    • The student needs to exhibit a comprehensive grasp of Hadith literature, including its compilations, classifications, and methods of criticism.

  5. Display a firm understanding of methods of assessing specialized literature pertaining to Hadith literature and criticism:

    • The student should demonstrate proficiency in evaluating scholarly works related to Hadith literature, recognizing reputable sources and critical perspectives.

  6. Demonstrate insights into Muslim and Western approaches to research within Hadith literature and criticism:

    • The student must showcase an awareness of diverse research methodologies used by Muslim and Western scholars in studying Hadith literature, highlighting differences and similarities.

  7. Display a firm understanding of meta-textual issues like the criteria for authenticating Prophetic literature:

    • The student needs to show a deep understanding of the criteria and methods employed to authenticate Prophetic traditions, including chains of narration and textual analysis.

  8. Show evidence of a strong understanding of either Shariah and Islamic jurisprudence, Philosophy, theology and mysticism, or Islam and the state in the Horn of Africa:

    • The student must exhibit a solid comprehension of one of the specified areas, connecting it to the broader context of Quranic and Hadith studies.

  9. Plan and execute a research strategy appropriate to the discipline:

    • The student should be able to outline a research plan, including literature review, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, aligning with the standards of academic research in the field.

  10. Produce an article-sized work of original research within the boundaries of the discipline:

    • The student is expected to deliver a substantial research article that contributes new insights or perspectives to the field of Quranic and Hadith studies, adhering to academic writing conventions.

Integrated Assessment

  • Summative Assessment:

    • A written exam at the end of the year counts for 80% of the year mark, assessing comprehensive knowledge of the course material.
    • The research article submitted also contributes 80% towards the year mark, evaluating the student's research skills and original contribution to the field.

  • Formative Assessment:

    • Two draft papers submitted during the year make up 20% of the year mark, providing feedback and opportunities for improvement.
    • Formative assessment tasks include study guide activities, self-assessment questions, and written assignments that test research skills and knowledge.

  • Assessment Process:

    • Assignments are evaluated by an internal examiner, while exams and research articles are assessed by two internal moderators and an external examiner to ensure validity and reliability.
    • Assessment results are recorded following Unisa policies to maintain quality standards and consistency.

  • Feedback Mechanisms:

    • Feedback on activities and assignments is provided in study guides and tutorial letters to guide students in their learning and improvement.
    • Individual feedback on assignments is given by assessors to highlight strengths and areas for development, fostering a supportive learning environment.

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.