Advanced Diploma in Language Practice
Communication Studies and Language - Language
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose
The purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Language Practice is to produce language practitioners with an enhanced understanding of the language practice profession. They will understand the contexts in which it functions and the ethical principles that inform it.
In a multilingual country like South Africa, there is a growing need for reflective and critical language practitioners. The learners of this Advanced Diploma will be able to hone their practical skills as well as deepen their theoretical understanding of the environment and practice of translation, interpreting, editing, and language planning.
The merger of theory and practice in the curriculum will enable learners to demonstrate competencies of general knowledge and intellectual abilities needed to succeed in the professional environment of language practice.
Rationale
South Africa is a multilingual country with approximately 25 languages spoken, 11 of which have official status. The National Language Policy Framework encourages the use of indigenous languages to foster national unity.
The Advanced Diploma in Language Practice resonates with this national language policy and aims to improve the skills and knowledge of entry-level language practitioners. Given the demand for language practitioners in provincial government departments, this qualification is well-placed to meet the need.
Feedback from alumni and industry advocates for refining the skills and competencies offered by the current BTech in Language Practice. The Advanced Diploma replaces the Bachelor of Technology in Language Practice to better address the evolving requirements of the language practice professional environment.
The qualification also acknowledges the importance of international languages in the context of globalization, offering a wide range of foreign language options. It serves as an academic pathway for undergraduate Language Practice learners to pursue higher qualifications and prepares them for postgraduate studies in language studies.
Overall, the qualification aims to develop creative problem solvers who understand their role as professionals in society and encourages learners to consider Language Practice as a field of research.
Outcomes
- Apply an increased range of techniques and procedures in translating and interpreting a variety of texts, using applicable theories.
- Critically reflect on the importance of language practice in a multilingual and multicultural society.
- Select and utilise technological equipment and applications to perform language practice functions.
- Display ethical and professional behaviour as a language practitioner.
- Apply a broader range of skills and theories in the language practice field.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Apply complex techniques and procedures to translation and interpreting in various contexts.
- Apply Language practice theories to a range of more demanding texts and situations.
- Use complex text analysis skills appropriately when translating a variety of texts.
- Do proofreading and editing of more complicated texts as part of translation practice.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Demonstrate knowledge of policies and laws relating to the field of Language Practice.
- Demonstrate an understanding of social cohesion in a multilingual, multicultural country and the role of language practitioners in achieving such cohesion.
- Debate issues on the importance of translation and interpreting in promoting access to information and achievement of human rights.
- Illustrate awareness of cultural diversity and the importance of language in cultural identity.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Compare and a greater variety of technological applications and equipment in performing fit-for-purpose language practice functions.
- Develop and manage workplace material with minimal supervision.
- Apply ethical standards in the use of technology in communication and for language practice functions.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Apply Ethics for language practitioners to increase various complex scenarios.
- Explain and justify decisions taken in response to case studies.
- Display and reflect the role of the individual language practitioner, in the profession and society.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Demonstrate the use of critical analysis in managing language projects.
- Demonstrate ability to translate and interpret in specialised environments.
- Create and maintain terminology databases for specific environments.
- Select, use and reference Sources of information are appropriate.
- Demonstrate sound knowledge of more advanced language usage.
Integrated Assessment:
- Assessment practices are open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable to ensure that no learner is disadvantaged.
- The qualification has an integrated approach to assessment.
- Assessment is integrated as much as possible with practical, real-life contexts.
- A variety of methods used in assessment and tools and activities are appropriate to the context(s) in which the learner could work.
- Assessors will make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools and assessment methods to assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational, and reflective competencies.
- Continuous assessment includes written assignments, written tests, case studies, peer group evaluation, competency evaluations of specific practical skills, and face to face contact with learners.
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.