Purpose and Rationale

The qualification is of value both to the learner and society in the short and long term. The purpose of the qualification is to:

Expose learners to a range of empirical knowledge that will prepare them for advanced post-graduate studies in history.
Demonstrate a more advanced level of competence in history within the vocational sphere.
Engage in an enabling and supervisory capacity in various vocational directions as outlined by SAQA Fields 02, 05, and 07.
Contribute to the social development of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, and the world by enhancing the quality of citizenship through applied competencies in civic, public, and private spheres.

Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society, by making it the underlying intention of any programme of learning to make an individual aware of the importance of: Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities### Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts### Exploring education and career opportunities:
Demonstrate a basic grasp of the theoretical and research skills applicable to the discipline of history:
Equip entry-level post-graduate learners in history with appropriate skills in research methodology and technique and apply the theoretical and research skills of history to a range specialised areas of research associated with the discipline.

Assessment Criteria

Demonstration of Competence in History

The qualification in history aims to equip learners with a comprehensive set of skills that can be applied to various problem-solving contexts in social, vocational, and academic settings. By mastering theoretical, technical, and empirical aspects of history, learners will be empowered to make meaningful contributions to society through the application of principles of good citizenship.

Knowledge and Skills Empowerment

Theoretical Competence: Learners will gain a deep understanding of historical theories and concepts, which will enable them to analyze and interpret historical events and trends effectively.
Technical Competence: By mastering research methodologies and analytical tools specific to history, learners will be equipped to undertake research projects and analyze historical data accurately.
Empirical Competence: Learners will develop the ability to gather, evaluate, and interpret historical evidence, enabling them to construct well-supported arguments and draw informed conclusions.

Contribution to Society

Professional Work Ethic: Learners will be instilled with a strong sense of professionalism, emphasizing the importance of integrity, diligence, and accountability in historical research and analysis.
Social and Practical Tolerance: Through the study of diverse historical perspectives, learners will cultivate tolerance and empathy, enabling them to engage with different viewpoints and promote inclusivity in society.

Research and Writing Skills

Research Proposals: Learners will be adept at designing and writing research proposals, demonstrating their ability to formulate research questions, outline methodologies, and justify the significance of their research.
Extended Essays: Learners will excel in writing well-researched extended essays in specialized fields of history, showcasing their ability to synthesize complex information, construct coherent arguments, and present their findings effectively.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment: Assignments, tutorials, and seminars will provide ongoing feedback and opportunities for learners to enhance their understanding and skills in history.
Summative Assessment: Written and/or oral examinations will evaluate learners' mastery of historical knowledge, research abilities, and critical thinking skills, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards of the qualification.

In conclusion, the qualification in history will not only equip learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to excel in the discipline but also empower them to contribute meaningfully to society through their engagement with historical issues and their application of historical principles to real-world challenges.

Bachelor of Arts Honours in History