Bachelor of Applied Social Science in Community Service
Human and Social Studies - General Social Science
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
This qualification aims to equip learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive contribution to society through the application of social science theory and practice. Upon completion, learners will have a solid foundation to further their education in broader social science disciplines. They will gain an understanding of the structures, operations, and legislative framework relevant to the social and community support services sector.
Upon successful completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the Community Services environment in the South African context.
- Understand the theories that underpin the Individual, Community, and Social Services environment.
- Comprehend the legislative framework that regulates community services and its impact on service delivery.
- Apply research principles to investigate community service issues.
- Utilize effective communication skills in academic and community service settings.
- Apply social science principles in a selected community service specialization area.
Rationale:
The Bachelor of Applied Social Sciences (Community Services) program aims to provide learners with the necessary knowledge and competencies to address social inequalities, family-related challenges, and individual issues within communities. It emphasizes the importance of creating effective communities through social service provisions to support initiatives for social transformation.
This qualification serves as a foundation in applied social sciences, fostering professional development in community service provision within the South African context. Learners will acquire specialized skills to serve in social and community service environments, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as Community Development, Community Service Administration and Management, and Palliative Care.
Areas of Employment:
- Social welfare services support
- Social auxiliary services
- Children and Youth Care support
- Caregiver services
- Community service work in NGOs
- Community-based project work for the elderly, terminally ill, and frail
- Community development projects
- Social services administration in organizations like SASSA
This qualification aligns with government initiatives such as Local Economic Development (LED), Extended Public Works Programmes (EPWP), and Integrated Sustainable Rural Development Strategy (ISRDS), ensuring graduates are equipped to contribute effectively to societal needs.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the Community Services environment from a South African perspective.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the theories underpinning the individual, community and social services environment and dynamics.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the legislative framework regulating the community services environment in terms of its implications and impact on community service delivery.
- Apply the principles of research in order to investigate a community service issue.
- Apply appropriate communication skills in an academic and community service context.
- Apply principles of social science and practice in a selected community service specialisation area.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Provide a historical overview of sociological and community development
- Explain the social and community services environment
- Explain social and community development issues and service requirements
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Investigate and describe the linkages between society, communities, and families
- Explain sociological theory and practice
- Explain development and social psychology theories
- Evaluate community development principles
- Apply project management principles
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Explain relevant legislation and policy framework
- Identify repercussions for non-compliance
- Evaluate specific policies and regulatory requirements
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Gather, interpret, and analyze information regarding social phenomena
- Investigate sociological and community service issues
- Utilize social research principles and methods
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication
- Apply communication skills in various contexts
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Demonstrate mastery of general principles and theories in a specialisation area
- Investigate factors required for service provision for a diverse client base
- Contextualize inter-disciplinary principles and theory
Integrated Assessment:
- Ensure fair, valid, and reliable assessment practices
- Incorporate a variety of assessment methods
Formative Assessment:
- Include chapter quizzes, assignments, and tests
Summative Assessment:
- Consist of written examinations
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- 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.