Bachelor of Arts Honours in General Linguistics

Purpose

The competencies captured in this qualification will provide the learner with sound knowledge and understanding of

• The functions, structure, use, variation and acquisition of human language.
• The concepts, conceptual distinctions and principles involved in modern linguistic inquiry.
• Research methodologies which are used to examine problems in a particular linguistic area.

These competencies include the reading of technical texts, the comprehension, selection, representation and critical appraisal of linguistic information and the integration of pieces of information into a coherent linguistic argument.

The qualifying learner will be capable of

• Analysing current knowledge of linguistic insights, theoretical approaches and research methods.
• Analysing problematic phenomena in a particular linguistic area.
• Conducting independent research in a particular area of linguistics.

Rationale

This qualification meets the needs of the sector by providing a focused learning opportunity for learners who wish to specialise in the study of languages. The qualification will provide learning opportunities for persons in the areas of general education, language education, language planning and advice, speech-language therapy, translation, interpretation, journalism, editing and copy-writing.

The typical leaner attempting this qualification will have completed a cognate Bachelor's Degree in the Arts at NQF Level 7 or 8. This qualification will allow the learner access to further learning at Master's Degree level in the same or a related field.

The knowledge, skills and cognitive ability demonstrated in a cognate Bachelor's Degree at NQF Level 7 or 8.

Recognition of Prior Learning

This qualification may be achieved in part or completely through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

Recognition of Prior Learning may also be used to grant access to the qualification to those learners who do not meet the admission requirements.

Access to the Qualification

Learners registering for this qualification should already have achieved a cognate Bachelor's Degree at NQF Level 7 or 8, or an equivalent qualification.

To be awarded the qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 120 credits.

Learners will be required to complete the following three compulsory modules at NQF Level 8

• Core Module: Core concepts in different areas of linguistics (30 credits).
• Specialisation Module: Theory and analysis in a specific area of linguistics (30 credits).
• Research Module: Research of a topic in area of specialisation (60 credits).

1. Analyse current knowledge of linguistic insights, theoretical approaches and research methods.
2. Analyse problematic phenomena in a particular area of linguistics.
3. Conduct independent research in a particular area of linguistics.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

This programme addresses all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria should be applied in an integrated manner to all the Exit Level Outcomes

• Texts are analysed with precision and insight into their content and context.
• Phenomena are identified in a relevant domain.
• Reasoning is applied objectively and critically.
• Thoughts and solutions are developed from clearly conceptualised ideas.
• Academic papers and studies are written according to required standards.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment will be applied continually throughout the learning of the individual modules. Summative assessment will be applied to ensure the achievement of each learning outcome and/or module. Integrated assessment will be applied extensively across the modules of learning to ensure the integrated achievement of the Exit-Level Outcomes.