Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Soil Science
Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The qualification aims to produce competent learners who are well-qualified to pursue careers in fields related to plant production, policy regulation, and plant security by utilizing their expertise in soil management. Upon completion, learners should be able to apply their knowledge, skills, analytical techniques, and problem-solving methods to address issues in soil sciences and their impact on plant production. The qualification also aims to equip learners with the ability to contribute to the improvement of the agricultural industry and environmental conservation through their understanding and analysis of soil science concepts. The introduction to research methodologies within the specialized field of study will enable learners to enhance problem-solving skills and contribute to advancements in the sector.
Rationale:
The National Development Plan 2030 emphasizes the importance of agricultural development in reducing poverty and inequality. To unlock South Africa's agricultural potential, there is a need to educate a significant portion of the population on the value of agriculture, agricultural theories, best practices, and continuous learning. Education within the agriculture sector is crucial for its advancement and ensuring sustainable food production. A qualification focusing on soil science will provide learners with a solid foundation in agricultural practices while specializing in enhancing soil fertility, advising on conservation and enrichment initiatives, evaluating different soil types for plant production, and addressing social and ethical considerations. This will contribute to future food security by producing learners who are adept at advising various stakeholders in sectors related to soil, chemistry, and agronomy.
Furthermore, learners of this qualification will possess research skills that allow them to contribute to soil science and engage in lifelong learning endeavors, thus ensuring continuous growth and development in the field.
Outcomes
- Provide a conceptual critique on specialised knowledge within the agricultural field of soil science.
- Apply knowledge and competencies to various contexts within the field of soil science.
- Synthesise information from relevant sources to provide background knowledge and insight on contextualised topics.
- Identify a relevant research question and attempt to answer this through planning a suitable research protocol.
- Conduct a research protocol using appropriate methods and forms of analysis, and report using appropriate means.
- Be conversant with ethical values and legal practices within the scope of soil science and integrated agricultural practices.
- Communicate effectively regarding topics with the field of specialisation.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Correct use of terminology, concepts, principles, and theories in communication.
- Appraisal of the relationship among concepts and principles in the agricultural sector.
- Depth of comprehension of topics in soil sciences.
- Proposing solutions to practical problems.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Discussing contextualised case studies in soil science.
- Calculating and analysing using appropriate methodologies.
- Proposing ways to optimize plant production through soil preparation.
- Applying knowledge to structured case assignments.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Sourcing relevant information from various resources.
- Structuring a literature survey with subheadings.
- Clearly stating the context in evaluating basic concepts.
- Developing a coherent discussion with examples.
- Drawing consistent conclusions and suggesting alternatives.
- Presenting work according to word processing and referencing protocols.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Identifying a valid research question.
- Reviewing methodologies to solve the research question.
- Drafting a coherent research plan with consideration for resources and ethical protocols.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Applying experimental or computational procedures accurately.
- Collecting and recording data truthfully and appropriately.
- Analysing results and interpreting them.
- Presenting research effectively orally or in written format.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Describing ethical implications in soil sciences.
- Referring work appropriately and providing a balanced view on contextualized problems.
- Understanding legislation related to soil science and agriculture.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Demonstrating awareness of audience and using different communication modes.
- Providing guidance to stakeholders within the soil science field.
- Integration of different techniques and strategies for communicating results.
Integrated Assessment:
- Continuous formative assessment for feedback.
- Assignments designed to integrate exit-level outcomes.
- Evaluation of learner performance for applied competence.
- Criterion-referenced assessment for clarity.
- Summative assessment for judgement in relation to exit-level outcomes.
- Research module to measure integrated learning outcomes.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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