University of Johannesburg

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology

Human and Social Studies - General Social Science

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Purpose:

The primary purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with the necessary skills to engage in discussions regarding the theory and methodology of Sociology. This qualification enables them to participate in ongoing debates within the field of Sociology at an intermediate level. Learners will also gain the ability to apply their knowledge to address pertinent issues within the South African context.

Upon completion of this qualification, learners will be capable of planning, designing, and carrying out research using suitable methodologies. They will be able to effectively report on their research findings. Additionally, learners will develop the skills to comprehend, interpret, analyze, and present research data in a meaningful way.

Outcomes

  1. Critically and creatively describe and apply different theoretical models and constructs in Sociology to specific social problems in authentic Southern African contexts on an intermediate level and be able to reflect on their problem-solving process.
  2. Work in a group and reflect on their participation in groups.
  3. Accept responsibility for own learning in terms of time management and quality of the work at the intermediate level.
  4. Design, plan, and execute a meso-level research task based on a theoretical framework within an authentic context### be able to reflect research and to report on research findings on an intermediate level.
  5. Engage with and critique constructively the ideas of their peers and others.
  6. Use science and technology effectively and critically, based on a theoretical framework, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others and reflect on this process on an intermediate level.
  7. Propose solutions to specific social problems in the South African context by taking race, ethnicity, political issues, gender and multiculturalism into account.
  8. Search for and access appropriate resources employing a range of learning strategies and technologies within the field of Sociology on an intermediate level.
  9. Develop a responsibility towards other members of society.
  10. Project cultural and aesthetic sensitivity towards people from different cultures based on theoretical knowledge and reflect on this process.
  11. Develop employment-seeking skills within the field of Sociology.
  12. Explore entrepreneurial possibilities within the field of Sociology.

Assessment Criteria

Exit Level Outcomes Assessment Criteria

  1. Theoretical Models in Sociology

    • Provide an in-depth discussion of theoretical models in Sociology.
    • Apply theoretical constructs and models in authentic South African contexts on an intermediate level.
    • Reflect on the problem-solving process related to theoretical models.
  2. Peer Interaction and Group Work

    • Interact well with peers.
    • Contribute positively in a group context towards an end product.
    • Reflect on participation in groups.
  3. Responsibility and Quality of Work

    • Take responsibility for learning and management.
    • Ensure the quality of work is of an acceptable standard on an intermediate level.
  4. Research Skills

    • Formulate a research question within an authentic context.
    • Distinguish between different methodological approaches to social research.
    • Use innovative and appropriate methodological approaches for specific research questions.
    • Select and use appropriate data collection techniques.
    • Interpret research data accurately.
    • Uphold high ethical standards in conducting research.
    • Recognize limitations of research design.
    • Address validity and reliability concerns raised by the research design.
    • Defend the validity and reliability of the study.
    • Report research findings.
    • Write a research report in an appropriate register.
    • Structure the research report appropriately and transparently.
    • Make a logically coherent argument and reflect on research.
    • Present research results to an academic audience on an intermediate level.
  5. Critical Thinking and Communication

    • Critique a research proposal or argument put forward by a peer.
    • Use appropriate register and display cultural sensitivity in critiquing arguments.
    • Make decisions supported by relevant theory and experience.
    • Put together a bibliography in the appropriate style.
    • Source materials using a range of technologies.
    • Find relevant and up-to-date information.
    • Use appropriate media for presentations.
    • Critically reflect on arguments put forward by authors on an intermediate level.
  6. Application of Theoretical Knowledge

    • Apply theoretical knowledge to the South African context on an intermediate level.
    • Consider race, ethnicity, political issues, gender, and multiculturalism in the process.
  7. Learning Skills and Strategies

    • Explore and reflect on learning skills appropriate to Sociology at an intermediate level.
    • Show responsibility towards other members of society.
    • Project cultural and aesthetic sensitivity towards people from different cultures.
  8. Employment and Entrepreneurial Skills

    • Develop employment-seeking skills within the field of Sociology.
    • Identify and develop entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of Sociology.

Assessment Practices

  • Formative Assessment:

    • Includes short essays, presentations in small groups, and practical activities.
    • Self-assessment activities and opportunities for peer assessment are provided.
  • Summative Assessment:

    • Integrated assessment focusing on achieving exit-level outcomes.
    • Written assignments, formal module tests, research project execution and presentation, and end-of-semester examinations are used.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Johannesburg
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.

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.