Bachelor of Arts Honours in Journalism

The primary purpose of this qualification is to develop the intermediate applied competence of qualifying learners in Journalism. Intermediate applied competence implies the advanced ability to acquire, analyse, interpret and apply complex communication principles and theories related to the context of Journalism within relevant sectors of the print and electronic media and the broadcasting industry. Furthermore, learners will develop the highly sophisticated ability to internalise, reflect and communicate complex strategic decisions and applications effectively through the progressive and suitable use of scientific language and technical terminology associated with Journalism. This qualification will facilitate effective critical learning through exposure to and application of specialised learning styles, thereby enabling the learner to navigate and holistically manage the multifaceted, dynamic context of Journalism.

Recognition of Prior Learning

All potential learners who are not in possession of a Bachelor's Degree with Communication as a major subject and learning in the relevant specialisation field need to provide proof of an equivalent qualification. Those learners who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning that should give them access to the qualification, need to apply to the Departmental Chairperson of the Department of communication for recognition of prior learning. A potential learner who wants to be credited for prior learning and/or experience for a particular module(s), needs to apply in writing to the Departmental Chairperson of the Department of Communication, clearly stating the title(s) of the module or modules he/she wants to be credited for as well as the basis on which he/she believes the accreditation should be granted.

The principles of RPL are subscribed to and will be implemented in a flexible manner. The principle of flexible and open access, however, be offset by the provision that this is not to the detriment of the potential learner and that his/her chances of success are reasonable.

The Committee will assess learners' competencies in order to determine whether they are eligible for

a) Access to,

b) Advanced placement in,

c) Recognition of status for this qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, NQF Level 7.

Or

• Advanced Diploma in Journalism, NQF Level 7.

1. Identify, evaluate, anticipate and solve advanced Journalism and communication problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Manage and work effectively with others as a member of a Journalism team or group to identify, solve and critically evaluate advanced communication and Journalism problems.
3. Organise and manage personal activities related to the Journalism learning process in a accountable manner.
4. Collect, analyse, organise, critically evaluate conceptualise and apply complex information pertaining to Journalism.
5. Communicate complex Journalism information effectively using appropriate communication skills and media, and facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication.
6. Use Journalism science and technology effectively, critically and responsibly to address sophisticated issues pertaining to Journalism.
7. Demonstrate heightened understanding of the related systems of Journalism and the dynamic interrelationship between these units and the broader context.
8. Acquire and reflect on advanced learning skills and strategies appropriate to the context of communication and Journalism.
9. Acquire heightened understanding of the intricate principles of responsible citizenship with regard to journalism in local, national and global communities.
10. Demonstrate understanding of, and apply heightened cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to the process of Journalism.
11. Develop advanced employment seeking skills within the Journalism employment context.
12. Identify and develop multiple Journalism entrepreneurial opportunities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

1. Did the learner identify, evaluate and solve advanced Journalism problems by using critical and creative thinking?
2. Did the learner work effectively with others as a member of a journalism team or a group to identify, solve and critically evaluate highly complex communication and Journalism problems?
3. Did the learner organise and manage personal activities related to the Journalism learning process in an accountable manner?
4. Did the learner collect, analyse, organise, critically evaluate and apply complex information pertaining to Journalism?
5. Did the learner communicate specialised Journalism information effectively, using appropriate communication skills and media and facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication?
6. Did the learner use Journalism science and technology effectively, critically and responsibly to address sophisticated issues pertaining to Journalism?
7. Did the learner demonstrate a heightened understanding of the related systems of Journalism and the dynamic interrelationship between these units and with the broader context?
8. Did the learner acquire and reflect on advanced learning skills and strategies appropriate to the context of communication and Journalism?
9. Did the learner acquire heightened understanding of the principles of responsible citizenship with regard to Journalism in local, national and global communities?
10. Did the learner demonstrate an understanding of, and apply heightened cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to the process of Journalism?
11. Did the learner develop advanced employment-seeking skills within the Journalism employment context?
12. Did the learner identify and develop multiple Journalism entrepreneurial opportunities?

Integrated Assessment

Continuous assessment practices form an integral part of the design of this qualification. Learning outcomes are made explicit to learners and there is a coherent assessment strategy in place for each module, with a fair balance between formative and summative assessment strategies.

Formative assessment practices that will be implemented

A range of formative assessment strategies is used. Formative assessment strategies include, inter alia, short essays, presentations in small groups and practical activities, field visits, publications and productions. Self-assessment activities are included in study guides. Opportunities for peer assessment are included.

Summative assessment practices that will be implemented

Integrated assessment, focusing on the achievement of the exit-level outcomes, will be done by means of written assignments, formal module tests and the execution and presentation of a research project as well as end-of-semester final examinations.