University of Limpopo

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Plant Production

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose: The qualification is designed to produce well-qualified, competent learners who wish to pursue a career in various fields relating to the production, policy regulation, and security of plant foods and products. Upon completion, learners should be able to apply knowledge, skills, analytical techniques, and methods to identify and solve problems in plant production and protection. They will play a vital role in understanding and analyzing aspects within the science of improving the plant production industry. Qualified learners will also be introduced to research methodologies, providing them with problem-solving skills and the ability to advance knowledge within the sector.

Rationale: The National Development Plan 2030 emphasizes the importance of agricultural developments in reducing poverty and inequality. To unlock South Africa's agricultural potential, there is a need to educate a significant portion of the population about the value of agriculture, theories, and best practices in the field, and the importance of lifelong learning. An education in agriculture is crucial for sector advancement and ensuring sustainable food production. A qualification focused on plant production will equip learners to engage in initiatives that enhance plant production, elevate the value of plant products, and manage the food chain sustainably while considering social and ethical implications. This will contribute to ensuring future food security.

Graduates will be valuable in sectors such as Agronomy, Horticulture, Pasture Science, and related disciplines, where they can provide advisory services to stakeholders. Their research aptitude will enable them to contribute to the field of plant production and engage in lifelong learning activities.

Outcomes

  1. Provide a conceptual critique on specialised knowledge within the agricultural field of plant production.
  2. Apply knowledge and competencies to various contexts within the field of plant 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. Converse ethical values and legal practices within the scope of plant agricultural practices.
  7. Communicate effectively regarding topics with the field of specialisation.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Reflect the correct use of the terminology, concepts, principles and theories in written and/or oral communication in the agricultural sector, specifically plant production.
  • Discuss and demonstrate a depth of comprehension of topics in the disciplinary area of plant production.
  • Apply and propose solutions to well-structured and practical problems related to plant production.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Discuss contextualised case studies within plant production and provide insight into various nuances within the field.
  • Calculate, analyse, perform, and use appropriate methodologies to interpret and communicate accurate results.
  • Optimise and increase the production of plants, crops, and plant products within the agricultural sector based on contextualised case studies.
  • Apply knowledge learned to structured work case assignments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Source relevant and current information from various resources like the library, Internet, and primary and secondary sources related to plant production.
  • Structure a literature survey on a specific topic using subheadings to indicate the direction of the answer.
  • Evaluate basic concepts in the context of the literature survey.
  • Develop a coherent discussion with illustrative examples, draw conclusions, and suggest alternatives.
  • Present the literature survey/research report following appropriate word processing and referencing protocol.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Identify a valid research question after reviewing relevant literature sources and pose it coherently.
  • Review methodologies to address the research question and validate their use for problem-solving.
  • Draft a research plan considering resource availability, statistical approaches, ethical protocols, and safety under supervisor guidance.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Apply experimental or computational procedures accurately, conserving resources and ensuring equipment and environmental safety.
  • Collect and record data truthfully and in the appropriate format.
  • Analyse results using relevant methods and interpret them accordingly.
  • Present research orally or in written format using appropriate discourse and presentation techniques.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Describe ethical implications in plant production.
  • Work within disciplinary specifications and reference work appropriately.
  • Provide a balanced view on contextualised problems using theories and evidence.
  • Discuss legislation related to plant production and demonstrate understanding.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Communicate effectively on topics within the field of plant production.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Ensure continuous formative assessment to provide feedback on progress towards specific learning outcomes.
  • Design assignments to integrate exit-level outcomes and demonstrate the achievement of the qualification's purpose.
  • Evaluate learner performance to show applied competence.
  • Conduct criterion-referenced assessment that is clearly explained and understood by learners.
  • Conduct summative assessment to judge learning in relation to exit-level outcomes, including integrated assessment of knowledge, competencies, and attitudes.
  • Include a research module to measure all learning outcomes in an integrated manner.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
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.