Bachelor of Arts Honours in Communication Theory

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with systematic knowledge, specialised skills and theoretical competence within an interdisciplinary framework to prepare them as specialist in the field. The design provides in-depth knowledge and basic research opportunities to build research confidence and problem-solving skills. Learners will be developed to perform independently and to become intellectual leaders in society.

Rationale

The rationale for the development of this qualification is to allowing for learners to study in the field of communication from first year level to Doctoral level. Communication Studies is offered on all the other study levels (Doctoral, Masters and undergraduate level), but not on an Honours level. The aim is to include communication theory and basic research for learners who aspire to become researchers and academics.

The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It acknowledges that all learning has value and will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant. The institution manages RPL according to the institution's RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for purpose of these qualifications:

• Through RPL a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at the institution.
• Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the institution.
• RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements:

> is conducted after payment of the prescribed fees in accordance with the policy and guidelines of the institution.

> is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.

> is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-level.

> takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

> is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel to the Dean's Committee of the institution.

Entry Requirement

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Advanced Diploma in Communication Management, Level 7.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 8, totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8: 120 Credits.

• Communication Theory, 20 Credits.
• Persuasion Communication B, 20 Credits.
• Development Communication and Identity, 20 Credits.
• New Media and Culture, 20 Credits.
• Research Essay: Communication Theory, 40 Credits.

1. Solve advanced communication problems.
2. Take lead of a team or group.
3. Produce a research project in the field of Communication.
4. Facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Display critical thinking, by suggesting creative ideas to solve communication problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication.
• Correctly display appropriate communication skills and media in different communication environments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Correctly collect, organise information pertaining to a research project.
• Explain the theory and the dynamic interrelationship between units within the broader context of Communication.
• Demonstrate heightened cultural and aesthetic sensitivity in the process of Communication Theory during the research process.
• Correctly apply the principles of responsible citizenship regarding Communication Theory in local, national and global communities.
• Present research findings in an oral and in written presentation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Effectively use complex Communication information in oral and in written format.
• Demonstrate appropriate communication skills in relevant media.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment takes place in accordance with the institution's policy. Three summative assessments during the course a module, and one final summative assessment at the end of the module are done. The lecturer for each of the abovementioned modules determines the assessment method to be used in each instance.

Qualification specific assessment criteria, rules and regulations, are communicated to learners in all learning guides. The development and implementation of assessment methods are based on the institution's principles of assessment. A variety of 'fit for purpose' methods of assessment are used by the assessor/s within a module to assess the learners as defined by the learning outcomes.

Assessments include the following outcomes based activities

• Observation of real or simulated tasks, e.g. practical exercises/demonstrations, role-plays, presentations.
• Evaluation of a product after a task has been completed, e.g. projects, assignments, case studies, portfolios, artifacts, log books, reflective journals.
• Questions, oral or written, used either separately or in combination, e.g. tests examinations, including short or long questions, essays, multiple choice questions, etc.
• All assessment activities are accompanied by a memorandum/assessment marking guide.
• The number and range of assessment methods used are included in the Learning Guides.
• Every assessment opportunity carries a predetermined weight that takes the integration of the outcomes into account.