Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Informatics

Purpose

The purpose is to train Computer Science and/or Informatics graduates scientifically in an outcomes-based programme that will ensure their immediate employability nationally as Computer Scientists and programmers in different organisations, ready to commence with Master Commerce studies in Informatics and Computer Science and/or Informatics. The advanced training in Informatics is based on a sound undergraduate programme in Computer Sciences and/or Informatics, which conforms to the requirements of occupational prospects and labour requirements in South Africa. The student is also trained in research methodology with the intention of continuing with Master Commerce studies and further specialisation.

Rationale

There is an urgent need in South Africa (and also worldwide) for more scientists and information technologists and the proportion of students enrolled in science and technology programmes in Higher Education should increase. This honours programme provides an opportunity to establish curricula that emphasise enquiry, innovation and science within social development, and which develop skills such as observation, problem solving, effective personal and interpersonal communication, analysis, entrepreneurship and critical thinking.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This institution subscribes to the principles underlying outcomes based, source-based and lifelong learning. In this context, considerations of articulation and mobility play an important role. This Institution endorses the view that recognition of prior learning (RPL) constitutes an essential element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning programme at honours level. RPL does not only imply assessment of the submitted portfolio, to determine the level of skills and knowledge comparable to Level 7 the candidate already possesses, but also the skills and knowledge the candidate has to master additionally prior to being accepted for the honours qualification. The assessment processes involved with RPL are the same as those followed for awarding credits in the formal graduate setting. An RPL candidate seeking credits for previously acquired skills and knowledge, must still comply with all the requirements as stated for modules, programmes and qualifications. The difference lies in the route of the assessment, since RPL assessment may be holistic in nature taking the context of the programme as well as the prior knowledge and experience of the person who is being assessed into account.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirements for admission into the Honours Degree studies are

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) Degree with Informatics passed at Level 7.

This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Level 8.

Electives Modules Level 8

• Decision Support Systems I, 12 Credits.
• Computer Security I, 12 Credits.
• Information Systems Engineering I, 12 Credits.
• Databases I, 12 Credits.
• Decision Support Systems II, 12 Credits.
• Decision Support Systems II, 12 Credits.
• Artificial Intelligence II, 12 Credits.
• Computer Security II, 12 Credits.
• Information Systems Engineering II, 12 Credits.
• Databases II, 12 Credits.
• Data Warehouses I, 12 Credits.
• Artificial Intelligence I, 12 Credits.

Compulsory Modules Level 8

• Project I, 32 Credits.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of scientific principles, bodies of content and conceptual issues.
2. Demonstrate the techniques and strategies involved in scientific enquiry and problem-solving.
3. Think critically and creatively while working as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments, showing leadership and performing critical functions.
4. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with scientific and lay audiences and be computer literate.
5. Understand the professional and ethical basis of scientific enquiry, identify and analyse problems in computer based systems, execute research work, interpret collected data and information in scientific literature, and be competent to report in detail on such work.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
• Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
• Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
• Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
• Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.

Integrated Assessment

• Continuous formative assessment strategies in the form of assignments, portfolios, tests and so forth are employed, as well as integrated summative assessments in the form of formal examinations and a mini-dissertation, project or report. Oral presentations of smaller integrated research projects or seminars in individual as well as group context may also be employed.
• Students are continuously assessed on the application of integrated knowledge and advanced skills in order to assure that they are competent for the workplace.