Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to supply the nature conservation industry with competent nature conservators and resource managers who are able to manage a conservation team efficiently. Learners achieving this qualification will be competent to perform advanced management of natural resources and biological diversity.

Rationale

The global community is faced with the depletion of natural resources. There is a significant need for measures to be put in place to deal with such problems. Individuals with knowledge of how to conserve nature for a sustainable future are in demand. These individuals will also impact positively through taking a leading role in research that will have the potential to inform future decisions in relation to nature conservation. The qualification objective is to develop a career path for qualified Nature Conservators by developing their skills in management fields aimed specifically at management within Protected Areas, and developing research skills to prepare them for Postgraduate study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In accordance with the University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy candidates may gain access to the programme without the prerequisite formal qualification by being granted advanced standing on the basis of the assessment of prior learning. In addition registered students in the programme may have prior learning assessed to be granted exemption from certain modules according to the University's policy and procedures.

Entry Requirements

The requirement for enrolment is

• Diploma in Nature Conservation, National Diploma: Nature Conservation or equivalent, with an aggregate of 60% for all major subjects.

This qualification consists of four compulsory modules of 20 Credits each and two elective modules also of 20 Credits each, at NQF Level 7, totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules

• Resource Management.
• Conservation Management.
• Plant Studies.
• Research Methodology.

Elective Modules (Choose two)

• Freshwater Management.
• Principles of Management.
• Environmental Education.
• Financial Management.
• Coastal and Marine Management.

1. Perform advanced natural resource and conservation management.
2. Demonstrate knowledge on biodiversity.
3. Use general knowledge in the field of conservation that benefits all involved and the environment.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of conducting substantial research to inform the practice within the field.
5. Apply plant and animal studies important in nature conservation environment.
6. Communicate effectively with supervisors, peers, subordinates and other nature conservation professionals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

1.1 Knowledge of the major national and international conventions and treaties pertinent to natural resources and conservation management is demonstrates and applied.

- Range of Conventions and Treaties must include

> The Convention on Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

> The Antarctic Treaty.

> The Montreal Protocol for the Protection of the Ozone Layer.

> The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat.

> The Convention on Biological Diversity.

> The International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling.

> The World Heritage Convention.

1.2 Knowledge of the persons/bodies responsible for the negotiation, implementation and policing of the appropriate conventions is demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

2.1 Knowledge of the species within a biological unit is demonstrated.

2.2 Understanding of the dynamic nature of biological diversity at all levels of biological, phylogenetic and evolutionary organisation is demonstrated.

2.3 Knowledge of global diversity losses is demonstrated.

2.4 Knowledge of the genetics applicable to intra-species diversity is demonstrated and applied.

2.5 Knowledge of ethical and economic values including indirect value is demonstrated and applied.

2.6 Natural area assessment of a given region is demonstrated and applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

3.1 Wilderness management and methods and strategies for care of rare and endangered species are effectively applied within a specified area.

3.2 The importance of ecotourism in the economy is explained and marketing products and production possibilities are identified.

3.3 Integrated environmental management methods are selected, evaluated and applied.

3.4 An urban conservation management plan is drawn up, explained and applied in a given area.

3.5 Knowledge of the restoration process is demonstrated and applied.

3.6 The principles of freshwater ecology in the management of local water resources are understood and applied.

3.7 The principles of aquaculture for the marine and coastal ecology are understood and applied within a selected area.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

4.1 The term research is defined and discussed in relation to a nature conservation project.

4.2 Current research publications are consulted and analysed to produce a credible researched paper.

4.3 Typical problems relating to nature conservation and/or technological research are described.

4.4 Papers for presentation at scientific and technological seminars are written and delivered.

4.5 Appropriate research methodology is applied.

4.6 Data and conclusions are effectively interpreted and presented.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

5.1 An appropriate bush control method is selected and implemented effectively within a specified area.

5.2 The carrying capacity of the selected area is determined and accurately interpreted.

5.3 Appropriate soil conservation measures for the given area are selected, implemented and effectively managed.

5.4 Knowledge of the ecology and population dynamics of animals within a specified area is demonstrated and applied.

5.5 Knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the digestive systems of the animals found within the given area is demonstrated.

5.6 The principles of genetics as part of a game management plan are effectively applied in animal breeding within a given area.

5.7 Appropriate legislation is applied within the conservation programme at all times.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

6.1 Current conservation terminology is utilised in all record keeping and correspondence.

6.2 Integrated writing and analytical reading skills are demonstrated in the interpretation and appropriate application of a wide range of data.

6.3 Interpersonal skills are demonstrated through effective communication with supervisor, peers and subordinates.

6.4 Conflict resolution skills through negotiations are demonstrated.

6.5 A variety of routine and non-routine responsibilities are handled effectively, such as the efficient management of correspondence and a filing system.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment is continuous and done on the following basis

Formative assessment

Formative assessment is carried out at regular intervals throughout the period of learning and may take the form of

• Assignments.
• Written tests.
• Practical tests.
• Mini projects.
• Research proposal.
• Research project progress reports.
• Reports.
• Oral evaluation.
• Presentations.

Summative assessment

Summative assessment is carried out at the end of the period of learning and may take the form of

• Written examinations.
• A research project report.
• Practical examinations.
• The presentation a portfolio of work is compiled and submited for assessment.