North-West University

Bachelor of Health Sciences in Biokinetics

Health Sciences and Social Services - Rehabilitative Health/Services

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification in Biokinetics

Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification in Biokinetics is to provide learners with a sound scientific knowledge base in the field of Human Physiology, Anatomy, Kinesiology and Human Movement Science as well as practical skills and appropriate attitudes and values to enhance health, optimise wellbeing and performance, and prevent the progression of certain ailments of individuals and communities. The main focus of this qualification is to provide professional training in respect of scientifically based prescriptive exercise in the following four domains of practice:

  1. Knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the structure and function of the human body systems.
  2. Knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the psycho-socio aspects of health, function and human performance.
  3. Knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to biomechanics.
  4. Knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise physiology and clinical exercise physiology for rehabilitation.
  5. Planning and implementing effective and efficient therapeutic and recreation programmes.
  6. Specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to human motor behaviour.
  7. Applying relevant and appropriate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to the prevention and rehabilitation of musculo-skeletal injuries.
  8. Applying specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to health promotion, health education and health related aspects of exercise and physical activity.
  9. Applying relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in conducting scientifically sound/based measurement and evaluation in biokinetics contexts.
  10. Managing a private or public biokinetics practice or health care facility effectively and efficiently.

Rationale:

Since 1984, Biokinetics as an area of specialisation within the Human Movement Science has been registered by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). It became imperative that due to the level and demand of professional training and the requirements set by the professional bodies in South Africa, that a professional four-year Degree be available for prospective biokinetists. This four-year professional Degree in Biokinetics was designed for the professional sector in which Biokineticists function (part of the paramedical discipline and Board of Physiotherapy and Podiatry) with a view to producing trained professionals who will be able to provide communities and individuals with guidance and practical skills in the different modes of exercise and/or physical activity to improve health, performance, motor ability and general well-being.

The growing need in our country for optimisation of physical performances in the workplace, on the sports field, for preventive medicine for sports injuries, hypokinetic diseases, other related ailments and the appropriate and effective rehabilitation of such ailments and injuries, resulted in the development of this qualification whereby all these factors were taken into consideration in the planning of the qualification. The scientific knowledge needed at this professional level requires that learners be theoretically grounded and trained with the necessary skills. This qualification also complies with national and international best practice standards. The offering of the new Degree will be handled with careful cognisance of the supply and demand of the profession as to ensure sustainability of quality and employment opportunities for the learner. It should be noted that upon successful completion of the qualification the learner will be able to register with the HPCSA, Board of Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Biokinetics.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the structure and function of the human body systems.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the psycho-socio aspects of health, function and human performance.
  3. Demonstrate adequate knowledge understanding, skills and attitudes related to biomechanics.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise physiology and clinical exercise physiology for rehabilitation.
  5. Demonstrate adequate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise science.
  6. Plan and implement effective and efficient therapeutic and recreation programmes.
  7. Demonstrate specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to human motor behaviour.
  8. Apply relevant and appropriate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to the prevention and rehabilitation of musculo-skeletal injuries.
  9. Apply specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to health promotion, health education and health related aspects of exercise and physical activity.
  10. Apply specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to health promotion, health education and health related aspects of exercise and physical activity. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in conducting scientifically sound/based measurement and evaluation in biokinetics contexts.
  11. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to management of chronic diseases and disabilities.
  12. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to biokinetics related research.
  13. Manage a private or public biokinetics practice or health care facility effectively and efficiently.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Describing the macroscopic and microscopic structure of each body system.
  • Explaining the normal function of each body system.
  • Understanding and integrating mechanisms responsible for homeostasis in the human body.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Analyzing, interpreting, and applying foundational theories of psychology and sociology in biokinetics contexts.
  • Reflecting on the effect of the human psyche on health behavior and health promotion.
  • Applying appropriate motivational and interviewing skills in health care contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Analyzing and applying theories in physics to human motion and exercise.
  • Assessing kinetics and kinematic variables associated with posture, movement, and injuries.
  • Planning and implementing biomechanically principled exercises for specific population groups.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Demonstrating understanding of the effects of different types of exercise on various body systems.
  • Designing appropriate exercise interventions to enhance exercise capacity.
  • Understanding the interrelationship between responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Integrating understanding of different components of fitness.
  • Designing appropriate physical activity/exercise training programs for different groups/populations.
  • Communicating effectively with individuals and groups in various biokinetics contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Applying recreation as a therapeutic intervention tool for different populations.
  • Analyzing and applying pathology and psychology in therapeutic contexts.
  • Planning and implementing therapeutic recreation programs for different groups/populations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Applying knowledge of motor development theories in various contexts.
  • Understanding central nervous system structure and function in biokinetics contexts.
  • Designing effective rehabilitation and intervention programs for individuals with functional constraints.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • Demonstrating understanding of common musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
  • Applying observation, palpation, and manual evaluation techniques for assessing injuries.
  • Designing evidence-based individualized rehabilitation exercise programs.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

  • Demonstrating knowledge of health and disease patterns resulting from inactivity.
  • Designing exercise program prescription strategies for promoting health and wellness.
  • Designing and implementing education programs for promoting health and wellness in the community.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

  • Applying different research methodologies in biokinetics contexts.
  • Designing physical health and exercise physiological assessments and interpreting findings.
  • Communicating research findings effectively to clients with empathy and understanding.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:

  • Applying effective techniques to assess chronic diseases and disabilities for appropriate exercise interventions.
  • Designing and implementing exercise intervention programs for various chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Understanding legal and ethical requirements related to managing chronic diseases and disabilities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:

  • Applying critical concepts of relevant theories and research methods to complex real-life problems.
  • Communicating research findings to colleagues and the public with sensitivity.
  • Applying research methods, analysis, and technology in an ethical and responsible manner.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:

  • Applying management functions and competencies in biokinetics practice contexts.
  • Demonstrating entrepreneurial skills in managing a biokinetics practice.
  • Implementing health policy, health systems, and interdisciplinary healthcare as per South African legislation.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
572
SAQA Source
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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.

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