Bachelor of Science in Consumer Science
Services - Consumer Services
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose: The primary purpose of this qualification is to educate and train learners in the field of food sciences, enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies. It includes science components at the core of the specialization area, aiming to provide learners with an understanding and the ability to integrate knowledge in the field. Upon successful completion, learners should be able to apply fundamental principles, concepts, and skills within the field of consumer sciences.
Rationale: This qualification focuses on consumer sciences, equipping learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a Consumer Scientist or further postgraduate qualifications. It aims to produce scientists in the consumer sciences field through research and practical development. Additionally, the qualification prepares learners for postgraduate studies, emphasizing a research-based approach and requiring completion of a 36-credit research component. It is a specialized postgraduate qualification geared towards preparing learners for research-based postgraduate study.
Outcomes
- Understand the value/limitations of scientific observations, data and knowledge.
- Understand the possible scientific solution to problems in consumer science.
- Apply advanced skills, indicting sound theoretical judgement and evaluation.
- Identify and critically evaluate current scientific processes relating to food sciences and understand the complexities thereof.
- Competently collect, organise and analyse scientific data, and critically evaluate results and prepare research reports.
- Work effectively as part of a team and group.
- Identify and solve problems in a positive, responsible and innovative manner using critical and creative thinking.
- Understand the interdisciplinary relationships between science and consumer science.
- Weigh housing needs against the available resources and make responsible recommendations on the application of environmental resources.
- Predict the ethical implications that human decisions and actions can have on the consumer needs of households.
- Access, process and manage information and distinguish between reliable information and inflated and unreliable information used for propaganda.
Assessment Criteria
Consumer Science Problem Solving
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Food Security
- Understanding the concept of food security and its importance in ensuring access to nutritious food for all individuals.
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Food Selection
- Identifying factors influencing food selection such as nutritional value, personal preferences, cultural influences, and budget constraints.
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Food Preparation
- Applying techniques in food preparation to ensure safety, quality, and nutritional value of meals.
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Food Preservation
- Utilizing methods of food preservation to extend the shelf life of perishable items.
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Food Product Development
- Implementing strategies in food product development to meet consumer needs and preferences.
Consumer Behaviour
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Influence of Social Class and Culture
- Recognizing how social class and cultural background impact consumer choices and behaviors.
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Decision Making Processes in the Family
- Understanding the dynamics of decision making within a family unit and how it affects consumption patterns.
Food Security and Influences
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Evaluation of Food Security Situation
- Analyzing a food security situation to identify factors contributing to food insecurity and proposing solutions.
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Influence of Man and Nature
- Recognizing the impact of human activities and natural phenomena on food security.
Information Management
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Accessing Reliable Information
- Developing skills to access, process, and manage information related to food science and consumer behavior, while discerning between reliable sources and misinformation.
Integrated Assessment
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Formative and Summative Assessment
- Utilizing a combination of assessment methods including presentations, projects, tests, assignments, and practical reports to evaluate learning competency.
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Continuous Assessment
- Monitoring progress through continuous assessment to address any challenges and ensure competence in the subject matter.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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