Rhodes University

Bachelor of Journalism

Communication Studies and Language - Communication Studies

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose:

The overall purpose of the Degree is to produce high-quality graduates within the liberal arts tradition who can apply fundamental and specialist knowledge to solve problems in specific disciplines, and Journalism and Media Studies in particular.

A second purpose of the Degree is to produce graduates who are equipped for a career in Journalism and Media Studies or some related field.

Outcomes

  1. Manage full origination, production and distribution cycle for a complex media production. In order to meet this outcome, the learner will be able to: Demonstrate in all management tasks, an understanding of current environment and production trends. Demonstrate an understanding of the necessity for, and an ability to draw up and adhere to time lines. Demonstrate an ability to negotiate group dynamics. Draw up and manage a budget. Demonstrate an ability to devise, write up, present and negotiate project proposals. Demonstrate an ability to manage complex production processes. Demonstrate knowledge of evaluation process and an ability to manage feedback/debriefing processes.
  2. Conceptualise, generate and publish media products, resources for media and analyses of media. In order to meet this outcome, the learner will be able to: Generate ideas for content, informed by knowledge of a well-defined audience and sensitive to social contexts. Demonstrate an ability to decide on appropriate, angles or treatment (choice of genre and formats) for the story/content. Appropriately select and apply a wide variety of formats, tools and methods for researching and editing content. Select and utilise appropriate channels of distribution to ensure that the media product reaches its audience and, where appropriate, creates a platform for audience interaction. Demonstrate an ability to effectively publicise a media product.
  3. Demonstrate and articulate a critical understanding of the relationship between media and society. In order to meet this outcome, the learner will be able to: Identify media institutions and explain how they work at micro (internal) and macro (policy, legal, etc) levels. Identify the contemporary history, political, social, economic and cultural contexts within which the media operate and how these are shaped and shape society. Identify and critically reflect on the role of journalists and journalism in society. Analyse the different mediums. Analyse how media texts represent society. Identify and interpret media audiences. Analyse media consumption.
  4. Demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively about and through a variety of media at all levels of communication -i. e., Intrapersonal, interpersonal, intragroup, intergroup, institutional and society-wide. In order to meet this outcome, the learner will be able to: Follow complex, logical arguments, readings, and presentations. Produce complex, logical, persuasive and analytical arguments, presentations and essays, for a variety of audiences and in a variety of contexts. Communicate at a society-wide level through a variety of media for a variety of audiences. Communicate effectively under pressure, in exams or exam-like situations. Communicate effectively within a group. Communicate verbally to a variety of audiences/individuals. Demonstrate effective negotiation skills. Use appropriate technologies to facilitate effective communication.
  5. Identify and use appropriate sources and research methods to study a given research problem. In order to meet this outcome, the learner will be able to: Identify research problems and access relevant resources needed to study them. Critically analyse problematic situations in the relations of media and society. Critically engage sources of information. Reflect on/question society-held assumptions about the practice of social/media research. Reflect on the uses and morality/ethics of the various research practices. Conduct a disciplined study by assessing research requirements### formulating research questions, selecting appropriate research methods and tools, gathering, evaluating, contextualising data and writing, evaluating and presenting research results. Work effectively in a team.

Assessment Criteria

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, learners should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate a detailed understanding, both in theory and practice, of the principles, theories, and facts that form the core of Journalism and Media Studies, as well as another major sub-discipline of the humanities.
  2. Utilize available resources to access information for independent study and research.
  3. Interpret and summarize information from various sources in the form of a logically structured and well-written essay.
  4. Analyze and evaluate a wide range of information, presenting the findings in a logically structured and well-written essay.
  5. Apply basic research, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking skills both individually and in group settings.
  6. Exhibit well-developed communicative skills and construct logical arguments effectively in both written and verbal forms.

Integrated Assessment:

Integrated assessment strategies will be implemented to ensure the achievement of the qualification's objectives. The assessment will include:

  1. Continual formal assessment (both formative and summative):

    • Tests, essays, practical reports, and seminars completed individually or in groups.
  2. Continual informal assessment (formative):

    • Ongoing feedback and evaluations to monitor progress and provide guidance.
  3. Formal end-of-course assessment (summative):

    • Comprehensive evaluation at the conclusion of the course to assess overall understanding and application of concepts.

By incorporating these assessment elements, learners will have the opportunity to showcase their knowledge, skills, and understanding of Journalism and Media Studies, as well as other humanities sub-disciplines, in a comprehensive and effective manner.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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Rhodes University
Description
Rhodes University is a public research university located in Grahamstown, South Africa. Established in 1904, it is one of the oldest universities in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, commerce, and law. Rhodes University is known for its strong academic reputation and commitment to excellence in teaching and research. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations and clubs. The university also places a strong emphasis on community engagement and social responsibility, encouraging students to actively contribute to the local community and address societal challenges.

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.