North-West University

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Language Technology

Communication Studies and Language - Language

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification: Honours Degree in Language Technology

Purpose:

The primary purpose of this qualification is that learners should possess skills, knowledge, and values to:

  • Create, develop, manage, and exploit language sources
  • Use language appropriately
  • Follow an occupation in language technology
  • Understand the multilingual complexity of South Africa and contribute towards community empowerment using language technology
  • Remain aware of the necessity to ensure continued competence by staying updated on the latest technology and techniques
  • Remain involved as lifelong learners by utilizing well-developed learning skills
  • Contribute meaningfully to information management and sources using multi-disciplinary concepts, structures, models, theories, principles, and research methods
  • Solve IT-related problems by applying approaches and techniques from other applicable disciplines

Rationale:

  • This qualification serves as the first year of Postgraduate study in Language Technology after completing a Bachelor's Degree in Language Technology.
  • It provides intensive study in Language Technology and training in concepts and research methods for employment in educational and technological fields or further study at the Master's level.
  • Language Technology equips learners to use language effectively in a professional context, develop language technological solutions, and understand socio-cultural realities in the community.
  • Skills to analyze and synthesize information in Language Technology are crucial in the context of globalization.
  • The qualification offers a vocational path in language technology, computation, programming, and education, preparing learners for advanced studies at the Master's level.
  • Adherence to level descriptors ensures readiness for progression to a Master's qualification upon successful completion of this Honours Degree.

Outcomes

  1. Integrated knowledge of and engagement in Language Technology studies and critical understanding and application of theories, research methodologies and techniques relevant to this field of study.
  2. The ability to critically interrogate multiple sources of knowledge about Language Technology studies within the field of Language Technology literature and language, and to critically evaluate and review that knowledge and the manner in which the knowledge was produced.
  3. Understanding of the complex nature of knowledge transfer from Language Technology studies in an academic environment to a career in which higher order knowledge of Language Technology is required.
  4. Accurate, coherent, appropriate and creative presentation and written/verbal communication of innovative and new professional ideas and findings related to the field of Language Technology literature and linguistics, adhering to the rules on copyright and plagiarism.
  5. Self-regulated learning skills regarding the finding, evaluation, analysis and interpretation of available literary and linguistic resources relevant to Language Technology studies and thereby develop an understanding of the need for life-long learning in professional context.
  6. The ability to contextualise and analyse selected texts, authors or phenomena in Language Technology studies from multiple scientific perspectives.
  7. The ability to recognise, understand and communicate the linguistic and literary phenomena of the culturally-diverse Language Technology-speaking populations of Africa and beyond.
  8. The ability to identify and solve problems in the field of Language Technology studies, individually or in groups, and critically reflect upon the solutions offered.

Assessment Criteria

Assessors will determine if the learner meets the requirements for the specific Exit-Level Outcome by looking for the following critical evidence:

  1. Use of Correct Terminology: Demonstrating the correct use of terminology, concepts, principles, and theories in written and/or oral communication.
  2. Analysis of Research Findings: Analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing recent and relevant research findings in the disciplines included.
  3. Proposing Solutions: Proposing solutions to well-structured and practical problems based on theory-driven arguments.
  4. Scholarly Discourse: Communicating clearly using scholarly discourse and discipline-specific conventions efficiently.
  5. Problem Identification: Representing well-defined and coherent identification of problems.
  6. Application of Methods: Selecting and applying appropriate methods, techniques, tools, and procedures relevant to the discipline.
  7. Theory-Driven Arguments: Proposing solutions based on theory-driven arguments and using relevant modes of inquiry consistently.
  8. Critical Reasoning Skills: Demonstrating scholarly and critical reasoning skills.
  9. Awareness of Context: Explicit recognition of the diversity, complexity, and multi-dimensionality of a context and its impact on the work being undertaken.
  10. Resource Identification: Identifying relevant role players and resources contributing to problem resolution.
  11. Factors Analysis: Identifying critical factors impacting practical problems from the discipline's perspective.
  12. Evaluation of Theories: Evaluating and defining the boundaries and limitations of theories and research findings.
  13. Ethical Solutions: Providing ethical and responsible solutions for practical problems.
  14. Communication Competence: Communicating effectively using scholarly discourse and different modes of communication.
  15. Knowledge Demonstration: Demonstrating knowledge and comprehension of discipline-specific conventions and scholarly discourse.
  16. Critical Appraisal: Reflecting critical appraisal of recent and relevant literature, including primary and secondary sources.
  17. Problem Contextualization: Clearly stating and contextualizing identified problems for research purposes.
  18. Research Strategies: Describing essential modes of inquiry and research strategies relevant to the discipline.
  19. Procedures Description: Clearly describing all procedures for undertaking the research project in a coherent fashion.
  20. Ethical Awareness: Demonstrating awareness of ethical accountability and cultural sensitivity in all related aspects.
  21. Integrated Assessment: Utilizing continuous formative and summative assessment methods to ensure integrated assessment of all Exit Level Outcomes.
  22. Evaluation of Learner Performance: Evaluating learner performance to demonstrate applied competence.
  23. Criterion-Referenced Assessment: Using clearly explained criteria and methods of assessment, including recognition of prior learning.
  24. Innovative Integration: Integrating a wide range of knowledge, skills, competencies, and attitudes using innovative methods.
  25. Purpose Achievement: Demonstrating the achievement of Exit-Level Outcomes to show the purpose of the qualification has been met.
  26. Comprehensive Assessment: Assessing outcomes appropriately and adequately to cover the required knowledge, skills, competencies, and attitudes.

In conclusion, the learner's ability to meet the specific Exit-Level Outcome requirements will be assessed based on a comprehensive evaluation of their use of terminology, application of theory, critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, ethical considerations, communication competence, and integration of knowledge through various assessment methods.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
134
SAQA Source
More Information

Education Cost Calculator

North-West University
Description
North-West University (NWU) is a public university located in South Africa. It was established in 2004 through the merger of three institutions: the Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, the University of Bophuthatswana, and the University of North-West. NWU has three campuses, namely Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, business, education, engineering, health sciences, law, natural sciences, and theology. NWU is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, with several research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges. NWU is committed to providing quality education and fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. It strives to produce graduates who are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the development of South Africa and the global community. The university also promotes community engagement and social responsibility through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, North-West University is a reputable institution that values academic excellence, research, and community engagement, making it a sought-after choice for students seeking higher education in South Africa.

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.