University of Limpopo

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Production

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture

Purpose and Rationale

Bachelor of Science in Animal Production

Purpose:
The qualification aims to produce well-qualified individuals seeking a career in Production, Policy Regulation, and Security of Animals. Upon completion, learners will be equipped to apply knowledge, skills, and analytical techniques in identifying and solving problems related to animal production. The program emphasizes understanding and analyzing aspects of improving the animal production industry. Learners will also be introduced to research methodologies in the specialized field, enhancing their problem-solving skills and advancing sector knowledge.

Rationale:
The National Development Plan 2030 highlights the importance of Agricultural Developments in reducing poverty and inequality. Educating a significant portion of the population in agricultural value, theories, practices, and life-long learning is crucial for South Africa's agricultural potential. An education in agriculture is essential for sector advancement and sustainable food production. A focus on animal production within the qualification will train learners to enhance animal production, improve the value of animal products, manage the food chain sustainably, consider ethical implications, and contribute to future food security. Graduates will be valuable in sectors like animal farm management, animal genetics, and animal nutrition, serving as advisors to stakeholders. Additionally, learners will develop research skills to contribute to the field of Animal Production and engage in life-long learning activities.

Outcomes

  1. Provide a conceptual critique on specialised knowledge within the agricultural field of Animal Production.
  2. Apply knowledge and competencies to various contexts within the field of Animal Production.
  3. Synthesise information from relevant sources to provide background knowledge and insight on contextualised topics
  4. Identify a relevant research question and attempt to answer this through planning a suitable research protocol.
  5. Conduct a research protocol using appropriate methods and forms of analysis, and report using appropriate means.
  6. Be conversant with ethical values and legal practices within the scope of Animal Production Agricultural Practices.
  7. Communicate effectively regarding topics with the field of specialisation.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Terminology, concepts, principles and theories: The correct use of terminology, concepts, principles, and theories in written and/or oral communication.
  • Relationship among concepts and principles: Appraisal of the relationship among concepts and principles of the agricultural sector, especially in Animal Production.
  • Depth of comprehension: Discussions showing a depth of comprehension of topics in the disciplinary area of animal production.
  • Problem-solving: Application of knowledge to propose solutions to well-structured and practical problems, both concrete and abstract.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Case studies: Discussion on contextualised case studies within Animal Production.
  • Calculations and analyses: Performing calculations and analyses using appropriate methodologies, ensuring accuracy and correct interpretation and communication of results.
  • Production optimization: Proposing ways to optimise and increase production of various types of animals in the agricultural sector based on contextualised case studies.
  • Application of knowledge: Applying learned knowledge to appropriately structured work case assignments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Sourcing information: Sourcing relevant and current information from various resources.
  • Literature survey: Structure a literature survey on a particular topic, indicating the direction of the answer through subheadings.
  • Coherent discussion: Developing a coherent discussion with illustrative examples and clear context evaluation.
  • Conclusion: Drawing a conclusion consistent with gathered information and suggesting possible alternatives.
  • Presentation: Presenting the literature survey/research report according to appropriate word processing and referencing protocols.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Research question: Identifying a valid research question and posing it coherently and succinctly.
  • Methodologies review: Reviewing various methodologies to address the research question and validating their use.
  • Research plan: Drafting a coherent research plan with consideration of resources, statistical approaches, ethical protocols, safety, and supervisor guidance.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Experimental procedures: Applying experimental or computational procedures accurately, conserving resources, and considering equipment sensitivity and safety.
  • Data collection and analysis: Truthfully collecting and recording appropriate data in the correct format, analysing results using relevant methods, and interpreting them accurately.
  • Presentation: Presenting research orally or in written format using appropriate discourse and presentation techniques considering the audience.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Ethical implications: Describing ethical implications in Animal Production and working within disciplinary specifications.
  • Balanced view: Providing a balanced view on contextualised problems using theories and evidence from the specialised area.
  • Legislation discussion: Discussing legislation related to animal production and demonstrating understanding.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Communication: Showing awareness of audience, using different modes of communication, discipline-specific conventions, and techniques/strategies for communicating results.
  • Guidance: Providing relevant guidance to stakeholders and sectors within Animal Production field as an exit level Agricultural Scientist.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Continuous Formative Assessment: Providing feedback on progress towards specific learning outcomes.
  • Assignments: Designing assignments to integrate exit-level outcomes and achieve the purpose of the qualification.
  • Evaluation of learner performance: Demonstrating applied competence.
  • Criterion-referenced assessment: Clearly explaining and ensuring learners understand the assessment criteria.
  • Summative Assessment: Judging learning in relation to exit level outcomes, including integrated assessment, and measuring all learning outcomes through a research module.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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University of Limpopo
Description
The University of Limpopo is a comprehensive university located in the Limpopo province of South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of the University of the North and the Medical University of South Africa. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including health sciences, natural and agricultural sciences, humanities, management sciences, and education. It is known for its commitment to providing quality education, conducting research that addresses societal challenges, and promoting community engagement. The University of Limpopo strives to produce graduates who are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the development of the region and the country as a whole.

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.