Bachelor of Science Honours in Botany

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Environmental Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Overview

Purpose:

The qualification aims to introduce learners to independent thinking, research techniques, self-motivation, and self-reliance. Learners will receive mentoring from qualified staff while being guided towards their chosen career path through a balanced set of modules. Practical sessions, seminars, assignments, and research projects will equip learners with experiential knowledge and skills necessary for pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) or an internship.

Rationale:

Botany is a subject with relevance across various disciplines such as Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Medicine, Education, Sociology, Water quality, and Environment. Graduates can find opportunities in governmental departments (e.g., Education, Environmental Affairs, Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Water Affairs, Science and Technology), private consultancies, research institutions (e.g., SANBI, ARC, CSIR, Medical Research Council), municipalities, and universities, thereby contributing to critical sectors and fields.

Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the biodiversity of vascular plants (ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms) from a phylogenetic and biogeographic perspective.
Demonstrate an understanding of the science of seed germination.
Explain biotechnology with specific reference to the principles and varying research biotechnology techniques used for tissue and plant production practice.
Understand the Scientific Method and interpret, analyse and criticise scientific literature.
Present ideas systematically and cogently both orally and in writing and distinguish between the equilibrium and non-equilibrium approaches to studying community structure identifying appropriate situations for applying each technique.
Recognise the spectrum of diversity and relate how various factors lead to species extinction.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Identify important plant families and position them in the phylogenetic tree
Apply scientific botanical terminology and flower diagrammes
Retrieve and analyze taxonomic information from scientific databases
Compare different species concepts for plants
Interpret and evaluate alternative phylogenetic hypotheses
Assess the application of systematic botany skills for science and society

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Evaluate the nutritional status of plants
Understand photo-periodism in agriculture and horticulture
Understand secondary metabolites and their importance
Understand biotechnology in crop production and medicinal plants

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Discuss crop protection and production, gene manipulation, and tissue culture
Evaluate ethical practices in biotechnology
Produce a research project in Biotechnology context

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Detect and correct errors in work
Plan, conduct, and communicate scientific projects
Define Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Differentiate GIS from paper maps
Collect, present, and manage spatial data
Understand vector and raster data modelling
Use instruments, techniques, and software for spatial information
Understand statutes and policies governing GIS

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Design experiments and collect data
Summarize data in tables and graphs
Analyze data using statistics and software
Interpret results and make scientific inferences

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Recognize diversity spectrum
Explain factors leading to species extinction
Describe habitat losses and examples
Explain species importance and anthropogenic extinctions
Discuss sustaining intact ecosystems and biodiversity importance
Describe threats to biodiversity and conservation efforts
Analyze and communicate conservation biology concepts and strategies

Integrated Assessment:

Use formative assessment through tests, presentations, assignments
Peer assessment during presentations
Summative assessment through examinations

Qualification Details

Type: Honours Degree
NQF Level: 08
Min. Credits: 120
SAQA Source: More Information

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Walter Sisulu University

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Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is a comprehensive university located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions: the University of Transkei, the Eastern Cape Technikon, and the Border Technikon. WSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and humanities, business and management sciences, education, health sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The university is committed to providing quality education and promoting social justice, equity, and sustainable development. WSU has multiple campuses spread across different regions of the Eastern Cape, including Mthatha, Butterworth, Buffalo City (East London), and Queenstown. Each campus offers a unique learning environment and facilities to cater to the diverse needs of students. The university is named after Walter Sisulu, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and leader of the African National Congress (ANC). It aims to honor his legacy by fostering a culture of activism, social responsibility, and community engagement among its students and staff. Overall, Walter Sisulu University strives to be a leading institution of higher learning in South Africa, providing accessible and relevant education to empower individuals and contribute to the development of the Eastern Cape region and the country as a whole.

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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.