Bachelor of Arts Honours in Comparative African Languages and Literatures

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to equip learners with scientific knowledge and insight into the connection between related matters by working in an inter-disciplinary manner. Learners will be in command of various literary and linguistic theories. They will have the ability to communicate the value of African languages and literatures in professional situations.

Rationale

The restructuring of the higher education sector creates a number of new opportunities for the humanities to contribute to social, political and economic development of the country. The qualification has potential to attract post-graduate learners and to address the current and future career and educational needs in African Languages and Literatures.

The qualification aims to support research activities and the development of a new generation of academics and researchers. It is structured in such a way as to produce well-rounded learners who are able to think critically and to serve the country and its people.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners whose academic background is outside of African Languages will be expected to motivate how their professional or life experience has prepared them for studying Comparative African Languages and Literatures. An interview will be conducted with the applicant by a selection team.

Entry Requirements

Learners must have the following as a prerequisite to enter into this qualification

• Degree in Comparative African Languages and Literatures or have the status of such a Degree approved by Senate. An average mark of at least 60% will be considered for the exit modules in African Languages examination.

The qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 128 Credits.

Modules

• SA and African Comparative literature, 24 Credits.
• Contemporary African literary trends, 24 Credits.
• Overview of developments in African literatures, 24 Credits.
• African Linguistics, 24 Credits.
• Mini-dissertation, 32 Credits.

1. Identify and solve linguistic and/or literary problems in a critical and creative manner.
2. Formulate an informed viewpoint based on subject specific and theoretical knowledge.
3. Understand the nature and content of Comparative African Languages and Literatures.
4. Acquire, master, apply, analyse, and integrate knowledge independently.
5. Situate the problem and findings of study in broader societal and cultural contexts and within an articulated worldview.
6. Present findings of the study in appropriate academic language.

• Knowledge is evaluated in a principled and well-grounded manner.
• Appropriate linguistic and literary theories are mastered and explained.
• The skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning are acquired.
• Skills, especially those of critical thinking and analysis are developed.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines is developed.
• Ideas and information are expressed confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication.
• Own cultures and personal histories, perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities are appreciated.
• The nature of knowledge and the process of learning language and literature are reflected.
• Strengths and limitations are assessed and understood in order to support their learning and personal development.
• Language and literature course is directed towards developing and understanding the constructed nature of meanings generated by language.
• The ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of individual texts and make relevant connections is developed.
• Ways in which cultural values are expressed in literature are explained.
• An ability to express well-organized oral and written arguments is demonstrated.
• An ability to write a sustained and detailed literary commentary is demonstrated.
• The effects of language structure, technique and style on the reader are analysed and evaluated.

Integrated Assessment

For every module of the four theoretical papers, one test, assignment and examination will be written. Group assignment will be presented in writing as well as through a Power Point presentation to a panel of assessors. Formative assessments will include one test, one individual assignment and one group assignment. Summative assessments will consist of the final examination for each module and a mini-dissertation. Each summative examination paper is moderated internally and monitored externally. External examiners and moderators are furnished with exam papers, memoranda and scripts or answer sheets.