Advanced Diploma in Forestry
Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Forestry and Wood Technology
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification Overview
Purpose
The qualification aims to prepare learners both academically and professionally to manage forestry operations and systems successfully through appropriate planning, organising, directing and controlling the functions and processes of such establishments, taking full cognisance of the economic, social and environmental considerations of this industry. Learners will be able to collect, analyse and critically review information and data for effective forest management and decision-making, and communicate such decisions and relevant information coherently and reliably. Learners will also be able to integrate the general theories, principles, key concepts, practices and techniques of Forest Management.
Rationale
The forestry industry in South Africa contributes approximately 8% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the manufacturing industry, provides in excess of 300,000 direct job opportunities and is regarded as a strategically important natural resource. The complexity of the industry requires highly skilled employees that are adequately trained in the management of complex systems. The industry is based on intensively managed monoculture systems that are located in a complex biophysical environment. The industry depends on a workforce that is influenced by a dynamic labour market. In order to stay competitive, it relies on the development of sophisticated management and planning systems. Mechanisation is also a phenomenon that will become increasingly important. These complexities have resulted in job profile differentiation at middle and higher level management. This qualification will play an important role in providing a workforce with relevant and adequate skills and knowledge to ensure a competitive and sustainable forest industry. The qualification will allow learners the opportunity to specialise in a selected spectrum of disciplines in order to prepare them for middle level management functions in the forestry industry.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the strategic and operational aspects of plantation forestry within the southern African context.
- Integrate and apply the latest advances in forest planning and management systems as well as appropriate technology in order to manage forestry operations.
- Demonstrate the ability to manage a forestry operation through the application of appropriate strategic, operational and financial management and leadership principles and practices with full cognizance of corporate social responsibility as well as ethical and environmental considerations.
- Plan, manage and conclude basic applied research activities by applying relevant forest research principles and analytical techniques, and presenting findings and conclusions coherently and reliably using appropriate academic and professional discourse conventions.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Analyse, evaluate, and discuss the nature, dynamics, composition, functioning, and structure of the plantation forestry industry in Southern Africa.
- Apply technical aspects of various disciplines in the plantation forestry value chain in strategic and operational forest management.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Identify, contextualise, analyse, and address typical challenges faced by middle-level forest managers.
- Apply knowledge of relevant theories, principles, concepts, practices, and techniques in evaluating options and strategies.
- Explain critical awareness of various schools of thought in dealing with forest managerial issues.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Describe the relationship between the internal workings of a commercial forestry value chain and the surrounding environment.
- Define the level of commitment required by a forest manager in pursuit of goals and objectives.
- Analyse stakeholder perceptions, identify concerns, and build positive relationships.
- Link visionary and inspirational leadership to corporate social responsibility for excellence in forest management.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Identify and formulate forestry-related research problems, questions, or issues.
- Conduct literature searches to contextualise research problems.
- Develop a theoretical framework and suitable research design.
- Collect, analyse, process, and interpret relevant data.
- Prepare and present a research report with findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
Integrated Assessment:
- Formative Assessment: Based on assignments, presentations, tests, and progress checks to provide feedback for improved learning.
- Summative Assessment: Demonstrate knowledge integration, problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, and practical applications.
- Practical Experience: Simulate day-to-day managerial tasks and duties.
- Research Projects: Conduct level-appropriate research projects, including fieldwork, to analyze case studies in the forestry industry.
- Assessment Criteria: Outlined in learner module guides at the beginning of each semester.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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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.