University of Johannesburg

Bachelor of Arts Honours in African Studies

Human and Social Studies - Traditions History and Legacies

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Purpose and Rationale

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with applied competence in intellectual and analytical skills with a view to the acquisition of knowledge of analysing, interpreting and understanding of events, as well as economic, social, political and cultural relationships and life situations in Africa as a region.

Outcomes

  1. A sufficient understanding of the existing knowledge on Africa, including the relevant theories, processes and contexts.
  2. The ability to integrate the different areas of study to develop a holistic and multi-disciplinary perspective on African issues and their contexts.
  3. Research skills in the library (including the use of the Internet) and in the field by being able to conduct surveys, do interviews, analyse fieldwork data and write a research report.
  4. The ability to apply social science research skills in the practical African situation and reflect on the process.
  5. The ability to communicate effectively with others, using appropriate visual, conceptual, statistical or language skills (oral and written) on African issues.
  6. An emphatic understanding of the social processes of Africa in context and of the people in Africa, and a commitment to the improvement of their lives.
  7. Scientific interaction and teamwork with other role-players in the field of African studies.
  8. A disposition towards self-reliance, honesty, commitment and sensitivity to differences (cultural, gender, race, religion etc.)
  9. Various learning strategies to acquire the different capabilities of a specialist on African issues.
  10. Acceptable employment seeking skills (including entrepreneurship) for entry into the different sectors/levels related to African studies.
  11. Responsible citizenship through the promotion of a holistic understanding of Africa.

Assessment Criteria

Integrated Assessment:

1. Existing Knowledge on Africa:

  • Formative Assessment: Class assignments and presentations on relevant theories, processes, and contexts in African studies.
  • Summative Assessment: Research or practical project evaluating the learner's understanding of existing knowledge on Africa.

2. Multi-disciplinary Perspective on African Issues:

  • Formative Assessment: Group discussions and case studies integrating different areas of study in African issues.
  • Summative Assessment: End of semester final examinations testing the holistic understanding of African issues.

3. Research Skills in African Studies:

  • Formative Assessment: Conducting surveys, interviews, and fieldwork data analysis.
  • Summative Assessment: Research report evaluating the learner's ability to use library and internet resources for research in African studies.

4. Application of Social Science Research Skills:

  • Formative Assessment: Practical application of research skills in African situations.
  • Summative Assessment: Reflective report on the research process and its impact on African contexts.

5. Effective Communication on African Issues:

  • Formative Assessment: Visual aids, statistical analysis, and language skills in oral and written communication on African issues.
  • Summative Assessment: Presentation assessing the learner's communication effectiveness in discussing African topics.

6. Empathetic Understanding of African Social Processes:

  • Formative Assessment: Case studies and role-playing exercises to develop empathy towards African social processes.
  • Summative Assessment: Reflective essay on personal commitment to improving the lives of Africans.

7. Scientific Interaction and Teamwork in African Studies:

  • Formative Assessment: Group projects and discussions with role-players in the field of African studies.
  • Summative Assessment: Peer evaluation on teamwork and collaboration in African studies.

8. Disposition towards Self-reliance and Sensitivity:

  • Formative Assessment: Self-assessment activities and reflection on cultural differences in African contexts.
  • Summative Assessment: Ethical dilemma case study assessing the learner's sensitivity to cultural, gender, and racial differences.

9. Learning Strategies for African Studies:

  • Formative Assessment: Learning style assessments and feedback on effective learning strategies for African studies.
  • Summative Assessment: Portfolio showcasing various learning strategies used to acquire specialist capabilities in African issues.

10. Employment Seeking Skills in African Studies:

  • Formative Assessment: Career development workshops and entrepreneurial projects related to African studies.
  • Summative Assessment: Job application simulation evaluating the learner's readiness for entry into different sectors related to African studies.

11. Responsible Citizenship in Understanding Africa:

  • Formative Assessment: Community engagement activities promoting a holistic understanding of Africa.
  • Summative Assessment: Service-learning project demonstrating responsible citizenship in promoting awareness of African issues.

By integrating these assessment practices, learners will be adequately prepared to engage with African issues in a comprehensive and responsible manner, contributing positively to the field of African studies.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Johannesburg
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Description
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of the Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University. UJ is one of the largest universities in South Africa, with over 50,000 students enrolled across its four campuses. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, humanities, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences. UJ is known for its commitment to providing quality education, promoting social justice, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
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