Bachelor of Science Honours in Applied Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Earth and Space Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Remote Sensing and GIS Training in South Africa
Remote Sensing and GIS technology are rapidly growing industries globally, comparable to or even exceeding the growth rate of IT and computer science. These technologies are being utilized in almost every aspect of life, showcasing their importance and relevance in the modern world.
The South African and African GIS and Remote Sensing community have recognized a glaring gap in training opportunities within South Africa. There is a pressing and significant need for more comprehensive training in the fields of Remote Sensing and GIS to meet the demands of various industries.
Currently, the only qualifications available in this field at South African tertiary institutions are an Honours in GIS and an MSc at the University of Stellenbosch, a distance learning postgraduate diploma (UNIGIS), and a few short modules (ranging from 2 to 6 weeks) integrated into Geography, Geology, or Surveying Degrees. However, these offerings fall short of adequately meeting the requirements and expectations of employers in the industry.
The primary objective of introducing a new qualification in Remote Sensing and GIS is to bridge this training gap and equip South Africa and the African continent with skilled professionals who can effectively apply Remote Sensing and GIS in practical settings. This initiative aims to address the shortage of qualified practitioners in the field and enhance the capabilities of individuals to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Outcomes
- Will demonstrate an in depth understanding of the fundamentals, and major principles and theories of Remote Sensing and geographical Information Systems and applied sciences as well as selected more specialized principles and theories###
- Will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the major and specialized course field as a foundation for the sciences of these fields and will demonstrate an appropriate understanding of cross-disciplinary applications in this knowledge###
- Will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the practical techniques and applications appropriate to the major and specialized course fields###
- Will demonstrate competence in identifying, seeking, retrieving, synthesising and communicating information accurately###
- Will develop and demonstrate appropriate attitudes, values and an appropriate sense of responsibility as relevant to the component courses and modules###
Assessment Criteria
The BSc (Hons) Applied Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems graduate will demonstrate the following skills and abilities:
- Selecting and using fundamentals, key concepts, and specialized principles in analyzing and interpreting Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems problems.
- Applying laws and knowledge of major and specialized course fields to solve problems within those fields and across disciplinary boundaries.
- Identifying and utilizing appropriate techniques and applications in solving basic and specialized Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems problems.
- Executing basic and advanced software functions, as well as undertaking data acquisitions and data quality checks.
- Interpreting investigations in terms of relevant comparative background information.
- Presenting clear, concise reports on investigations in verbal, graphic, and written forms.
- Conducting all investigations and applications in a professional manner.
- Adhering strictly to the principles of unbiased investigation using the appropriate scientific method.
Integrated Assessment:
- Theory assessed through seminar papers, oral presentations, worksheets, assignments, and examinations.
- Practical aspects assessed through practical assignments, work portfolios, and real-life experience.
- Projects evaluated continuously through oral presentations and a final research report.
- Formative assessment includes background knowledge evaluation, ongoing evaluation, demonstration of practical skills, review of drafts, learner attitude appraisal, and oral interaction.
- Summative assessment includes assignments, class tests, report appraisals, examinations, oral presentations, and acceptance of practical work by commercial companies.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- 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.