University of Zululand

Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies

Education, Training and Development - Schooling

Purpose and Rationale

Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies

Purpose:

The purpose of the Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies qualification is to prepare learners for research-based Postgraduate studies in the field of curriculum studies in the school and school district context through engagement in the high level of theoretical and intellectual independence in curriculum development. The qualification seeks to facilitate the development of competent curriculum experts, teachers, Head of Departments, Education Specialists, Subject Advisors, and Curriculum Managers for the growing demands of the ever-changing curriculum.

The qualification will enable curriculum experts and district officials to develop professional skills, knowledge and attitudes that are necessary to become highly competent in the field of curriculum. Furthermore, the qualification will allow learners to consolidate and deepen their expertise in curriculum policies and procedures and to undertake advanced reflection and development through a systematic survey of current thinking and practice in instructional design and also prepare them for research-based Postgraduate studies in Curriculum. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence in the field of Curriculum Studies. The qualification will foster progressive thinking in the field of education by developing a cadre of educators with a wider and deeper understanding of the transformation of education concerning Curriculum Studies.

Rationale:

The qualification aims to provide professional educators and leaders at a Postgraduate level with a clear understanding of theories and theoretical frameworks, which underwrite education systems. This qualification will deepen the expertise of educators; broaden the leadership base in the field of education, training and development. It will enable learners to be engaged in a high level of theoretical and intellectual independence in curriculum development.

This qualification is a generic Postgraduate qualification intended to provide an advanced and specialised academic, professional or occupational study of aspects of education. It includes an introduction to independent research and prepares learners for further Postgraduate studies. Given the different levels of preparation offered to educators, it could, therefore, serve as a critical bridge between pre-service professional education and advanced studies at the Master's level and beyond. Consequently, a primary function of this qualification is to ensure that educators have the competence required for independent research at higher levels.

Completing the qualification enables horizontal, vertical and diagonal articulation ensuring the learner meets all the minimum entry requirements of the chosen articulation pathway. It has the following possibilities:

  • From the four-year professional teaching Degree OR an appropriate Bachelor's Degree and a recognised professional teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE) or (a) four-year professional teaching qualification(s).
  • Diagonally with the Advanced Diploma in a cognate sub-field of Education.
  • Vertical articulation: Proceed to a Master of Education for example in Curriculum Studies. 

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate a sound knowledge base and critical understanding of education in general, and in Curriculum Studies.
  2. Critically analyse and evaluate knowledge in Curriculum Studies, and contribute to systematic and disciplined thinking about educational matters and issues.
  3. Conduct independent inquiry in a specialised field of education, training or development, and report findings in academically appropriate ways.
  4. Exhibit the potential to act as academic leaders and experts in the field of education, training and development.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Understand contemporary educational conditions and policies with socio-historical development in Southern Africa.
  • Familiarity with major lines of debate in education.
  • Interpret literature in Curriculum Studies.
  • Write succinct and accurate syntheses of material.
  • Locate relevant theoretical framework to Curriculum Studies.
  • Apply specialist knowledge in an area of educational study or practice.
  • Show sensitivity and understanding of the contextual nature of knowledge.
  • Interpret knowledge as a source of meaning and reflection.
  • Demonstrate awareness of educational contexts where knowledge applies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of Curriculum principles and concepts.
  • Write fluently in an academic mode.
  • Analyse educational situations to identify problems.
  • Assess evidence for claims and theories in education.
  • Justify conclusions with appropriate arguments.
  • Solve educational problems using critical and creative thinking.
  • Develop systematic arguments with intellectual independence.
  • Make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Complete papers and project reports using various research approaches.
  • Collect, analyse, and evaluate educational information from sources.
  • Use appropriate resources, including ICT, for academic work.
  • Plan and conduct basic research using research techniques.
  • Communicate research results through written reports and oral presentations.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of research approaches in education.
  • Display skills for research and lifelong learning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Interpret educational principles flexibly in different contexts.
  • Participate effectively in Curriculum debates.
  • Stimulate others to think critically about education.
  • Communicate effectively with colleagues.
  • Demonstrate openness towards others' views.
  • Display leadership skills in education.
  • Communicate effectively from a position of leadership.
  • Foster recognition of educational rights and priorities.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to solve educational problems.
  • Use various assessment strategies such as presentations, assignments, and exams.
  • Final marks based on academic performance throughout the modules and exams.
  • Align with institutional assessment policy and Faculty of Education procedures.
  • Subject to rigorous internal and external moderation processes.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

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University of Zululand
Description
The University of Zululand is a comprehensive university located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It was established in 1960 and is one of the oldest universities in the province. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, science, commerce, education, and law. It is known for its commitment to providing quality education and promoting research and innovation. The university also has a strong focus on community engagement and strives 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.