Bachelor of Environmental and Natural Resource Science
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification in Environmental Science
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with a proper understanding of all the abiotic and biotic factors involved and their interactions; how previous and even current rapacious actions have affected biodiversity and harmed the environment; and how we can reverse this process of degradation and at least attempt to restore our earth to a condition that would favour life as we know it. Qualifying learners should be able to analyse local conditions and practices to identify problems and propose more ecologically friendly practices.
Qualification Outcomes:
- Develop thorough understanding of social-ecological systems
- Instil critical thinking skills
- Develop a solid grounding in the relevant natural sciences, as well as economics and environmental law
- Train problem-solving ability
- Develop research and analytical skills
- Develop the ability to plan for a sustainable future
- Develop the ability to see the bigger picture
Upon completion, the qualifying learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate up-to-date knowledge of the field of study, research practice, and its application
- Evaluate different sources of information and select relevant and reliable ones
- Select appropriate procedures even in unfamiliar situations
- Use specialized skills
- Identify, analyse, and address complex problems drawing on specialized knowledge
- Address ethical issues based on critical reflection
- Access, process, and manage information effectively
- Present and communicate ideas effectively to various audiences
- Operate or manage systems based on understanding relationships within the system
Rationale:
With unprecedented changes in climate and land-use patterns, a decrease in global biodiversity and ecosystem services has been occurring at an alarming rate, causing widespread damage to the life-support systems. By 2030, the world population is predicted to increase, requiring environmental scientists and city planners to protect ecosystems to ensure a continued supply of ecosystem services for current and future generations.
There is a global concern about ecosystem degradation, and this qualification aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to address environmental problems. South Africa is facing major environmental issues, and the industry demands professionals who can contribute to policy development, provide environmental management advice, and find innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
This qualification meets the needs of the sector by training general specialists in environmental science. Learners may come from various backgrounds, including Grade 12 students, and can pursue careers such as environmental officers, consultants, or conservation specialists.
Learning pathways are formulated within the rules of combination, allowing for articulation from other similar qualifications. The qualification aligns with national development plans and sustainable development goals.
Most entry-level jobs in environmental management require a Bachelor's qualification in Environmental Science or related fields, making learners of this qualification well-equipped for the job market as environmental scientists and managers. SACNASP has reviewed and approved the content of the qualification to meet industry needs.
Outcomes
- Identify, assess, formulate and solve a range of ecological and biodiversity problems creatively and innovatively.
- Apply knowledge of biology, basic science and statistics to solve ecological and biodiversity problems.
- Design and conduct investigations and experiments in the laboratory or the field.
- Use appropriate ecological methods, skills and tools, including those based on information technology.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with biological audiences and the broader community.
- Demonstrate critical awareness of the impact of human activity on the social, industrial and physical environment.
- The ability to work effectively as an individual, in teams and multidisciplinary environments.
- Engage in independent learning through well-developed learning skills.
- Demonstrate critical awareness of the need to act professionally and ethically and to exercise judgment and take responsibility within own limits of competence.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Analyse and define the problem, and identify criteria for an acceptable solution.
- Generate and formulate approaches to the solution of the problem.
- Model and analyse solutions.
- Evaluate possible solutions and select the best one.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Use a mix of biological, geographical, and statistical knowledge to analyse ecological/biodiversity situations.
- Organise knowledge coherently and systematically.
- Critically understand fundamental principles and theories of the discipline.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Conduct a literature search and critically evaluate material.
- Identify possible solutions and design appropriate procedures to test for the best solution.
- Assess impacts and benefits of proposed solutions.
- Plan and conduct investigations and experiments.
- Clearly state conclusions based on evidence and defend them.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Select and use appropriate methods of ecological analysis.
- Recognise and state limitations of the selected method.
- Critically test and assess results of the investigation.
- Employ computer software for modelling and/or simulating situations and proposed solutions.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Use appropriate structure, style, and language to communicate concepts to the specific audience.
- Use effective graphical support in presentations.
- Present the project in written format according to standard practice in subject journals.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Understand the impact of technology on society and the environment.
- Apply occupational and public health and safety legislation.
- Understand the personal, social, and cultural values of affected communities.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Identify objectives and work strategically.
- Execute tasks effectively to deliver completed work on time.
- Motivate fellow team members and gain their support.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Reflect on learning and determine learning requirements and strategies.
- Access, comprehend, and apply knowledge acquired outside formal instruction.
- Challenge assumptions, embrace new thinking, and show personal responsibility and initiative in complex contexts.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
- Understand and display requirements to maintain continued competence.
- Display understanding of the system and need for on-going professional development.
- Accept responsibility for own actions and display judgment in decision-making.
Integrated Assessment:
- Formative Assessment: Individual or small group exercises to identify teaching shortcomings and misconceptions among learners.
- Summative Assessment: Short class tests, major tests, exams, and written field reports to test practical application of skills.
By meeting these assessment criteria, students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of ecological and biodiversity situations and their solutions.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
Education Cost Calculator
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.