Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies

Purpose

Students will be exposed to a variety of modules. Fundamental questions on curriculum development and reform are addressed holistically through diverse modules. These modules empower students with the opportunity to study curriculum disciplines and develop an understanding of curriculum policy and design, planning, process and practice. This will help students to engage with fundamental questions concerning the aims and values of curriculum and its relationship to society. The qualification will help students in broadening their theoretical perspectives on research and its implementation. Students will be able to:

• Gain critical thinking skills.
• Apply and implement such skills in academic and research writing.
• Acquire generic and specific skills to conduct research within the field of curriculum development.
• Pursue further studies in curriculum and enhance overall academic excellence.

Rationale

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies is a Postgraduate qualification designed to enhance the capacity of Postgraduate students in the improvement, innovation and development of curriculum. The qualification primarily aims to prepare students for research-based Postgraduate studies in curriculum development. Furthermore, it is designed to expand and reinforce the knowledge of the student in curriculum reform and development as a significant discipline of education. The qualification centres on the following aspects, amongst others:

• A high level of theoretical engagement.
• Intellectual independence.
• Designing, implementing and writing research at an appropriate level.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of relevant prior learning and experience as per the University's RPL policy, which clearly outlines the structure and processes that must be followed to provide access via RPL. Appropriate assessment tasks and tools are designed to assess individual candidates against the module/qualification outcomes on a case-by-case basis, with detailed records maintained and kept for safety.

Entry Requirements

For entry to this qualification is either

• A four-year professional teaching qualification.

Or

• An appropriate Bachelor's Degree and a recognised professional teaching qualification.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling 128 Credits.

Compulsory modules

• Research Project in Curriculum Studies, 32 Credits.
• Educational Research Theories and Approaches, 24 Credits.
• Curriculum Theory and Development, 24 Credits.
• The South African Curriculum in Perspective, 24 Credits.
• Curriculum Assessment and Evaluation, 24 Credits.

1. Critically analyse curriculum knowledge and understanding by applying sound knowledge of curriculum research.
2. Analyse and evaluate knowledge in curriculum studies with the view of conducting independent educational research.
3. Act as academic leaders and professional education practitioners in the field of curriculum studies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of curriculum studies concepts and theories.
• Demonstrate sensitivity for, as well as understanding and awareness of, the variety of educational contexts in which knowledge of curriculum studies might apply.
• Critique curriculum studies conditions and policies relevant to the African context.
• Understand and critically evaluate policies and practices presented on curriculum.
• Display adequate knowledge and a capacity to identify and unpack complex curriculum problems.
• Explain and critically analyse curriculum models explicitly in different settings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Conceptualise a relevant research problem and construct an appropriate research question or hypothesis.
• Use a range of literature resources to correctly situate a study in its proper context.
• Take responsibility and full accountability for own work, decision-making and use of resources.
• Design and appropriately execute a research protocol, drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to research.
• Assess curriculum studies situations with a view to identifying problems and making sound theoretical judgements and evaluations based on evidence.
• Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate and apply skills to undertake research.
• Present assignments, research proposals and project reports in a way that shows knowledge of different research approaches and methodologies in curriculum studies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate competence in stimulating and encouraging others to become engaged in curriculum studies discourse.
• Advance educational knowledge and skills through critical reflection in curriculum debates.
• Advocate policy development for the improvement of curricula.
• Depict professional development through a Portfolio of Evidence.

Integrated Assessment

Learning and assessment will be conducted across Exit Level Outcomes within the qualification as it will be integrated to ensure a well-structured qualification.

Formative Assessment

Formative Assessment is in place to assure continuous learning and feedback to candidates.

Summative Assessment

Summative Assessment ensures a judgement of learning at the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such assessments will assess the student's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, competencies and attitudes that are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes either as a whole or as components of the qualification.