Bachelor of Agriculture Honours in Extension

The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with a proper understanding and knowledge of extension and an integrated and effective mix of extension skills that build on prior graduate-level agricultural knowledge in a variety of disciplines in the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences in such a way that a high qualification of growth in extension skills and competence can readily take place.

The purpose of this qualification is to supply the agricultural industry with competent agricultural extensionists that can effectively design, development programmes, conforming to the principles of participatory development with maximum community involvement and impact.

The qualifying learner will have exposure and orientation to agricultural extension programme development and will be competent to compile and manage an extension programme and apply their basic knowledge, skills and attitudes towards rural and agricultural development.

This qualification forms the foundation for the Master of Agriculture (Extension) qualification.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Agriculture, NQF Level 7.

1. Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the principles of extension philosophy, organisation and management.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of group dynamics and leadership and apply appropriate group techniques.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of rural sociology and poverty and participatory community development methodologies.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of the roles and functions of human aspects of development
5. Apply basic research skills.
6. Apply basic communication skills and techniques in the context of agricultural extension.

1).

The origins and goals of extension are understood with a view to current and alternative extension systems. Organisation theory and its relation to extension organisations is described.

Knowledge of the personal dimensions of managerial effectiveness is demonstrated.

The role of effective discipline in extension organisations is understood.

A systems perspective of extension is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the extension policy development process is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of the extension management functions is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the critical elements of human resource management in extension is demonstrated and applied.

The relationship between training and professional development is understood.

Knowledge of the basis of sound financial management of extension delivery is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of a management information system in extension is demonstrated and applied.

Linkage problems between research and extension are identified and solved.

Knowledge of the extension paradigm shift is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of the main issues regarding the privatisation of extension is demonstrate.

The role of NGOs in extension is understood.

2).

Knowledge of the contributions of groups to human well-being is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the basic theories regarding group dynamics is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of group norms is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of group goals is demonstrated and applied.

Groups are effectively assisted to set appropriate goals.

Knowledge of group techniques is demonstrated and applied.

Appropriate group techniques are selected.

Appropriate group techniques are applied effectively.

Knowledge of leadership is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of the influences of the philosophy of extension on group work is demonstrated.

Group analysis is effective.

Group motivation is effective.

3).

Knowledge of the dualism in agriculture in terms of its sociological dimensions is demonstrated.

Knowledge of culture as a process is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the dynamics of culture is demonstrated.

Knowledge of cultural relativism is demonstrated.

Knowledge of indigenous peoples is demonstrated.

Knowledge of sustainability is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the role of indigenous peoples in sustainability is demonstrated.

Case studies are analysed.

Knowledge of the difference between indigenous knowledge and scientific knowledge is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the linkages between indigenous knowledge and agricultural development in Africa is demonstrated.

Knowledge of intermediate and appropriate technology generation and dissemination is demonstrated.

Knowledge of participatory development methodologies is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the deprivation trap is demonstrated.

Knowledge of rural poverty in South Africa is demonstrated.

4).

Knowledge of basic development terminology is demonstrated and applied.

Knowledge of the sociology of development is demonstrated.

Case studies are analysed.

The role and function of culture in the development process is understood.

Knowledge of the social construction of land is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the issues concerning gender and development is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the dynamics of rural poverty is demonstrated.

Knowledge of decision-making and the farming systems environment is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the shift from technical transfer to decision-making support in farming systems is demonstrated.

5).

The term research is defined and discussed.

Research is related to agricultural management.

The characteristics of research are discussed

Knowledge of the tools of research is demonstrated.

Knowledge of the preparation of research is applied.

Knowledge of the special approaches towards agricultural research is demonstrated.

Awareness of typical problems relating to agricultural research is demonstrated.

General knowledge of the writing of scientific and technological seminars is demonstrated.

Knowledge of research methodology is demonstrated.

Research proposal and design are quantitative and qualitative.

Research tools are applied effectively.

Research planning is effective.

Problem statement is relevant.

Literature review is comprehensive and concise.

Appropriate research methodology is applied.

Data and conclusions are presented and interpreted effectively

6).

Confidence in speaking is demonstrated.

Integrated writing skills are demonstrated.

Interpersonal communication skills are demonstrated.

Small group communication skills are demonstrated.

Group dynamics, as a communication tool in the context of agricultural production is understood.

Knowledge of the importance of active listening/reading and constructive feedback in the communication process is demonstrated and applied.

Appropriate and effective body language is displayed.

Integrated Assessment

Oral examinations.

Other

Continuous assessment - open book examinations, assignments, practical activities.