Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours in Biokinetics

Purpose

This qualification is a Postgraduate qualification which prepares students for research-based postgraduate study at Level 9 and aims to consolidate and deepen the students' expertise in the discipline of Biokinetics, and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of the discipline.

Rationale

This qualification is a postgraduate qualification focused on the preparation of students for research-based postgraduate study within the discipline of Biokinetics. The qualification will enable graduates to become entrepreneurs, leaders and researchers in the world of Biokinetics, thereby improving the lives of different groups in the South Africa (SA) sporting community. The graduate will be equipped with the required theoretical and practical knowledge and skills to provide expert and researched clinical support services to communities, different specialist age groups, sports teams and individual athletes who depend on exercise for the development and improvement of their well-being and quality of life.

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. The assessment processes involved with RPL are the same as those followed for awarding credits in a formal setting. An RPL candidate seeking credits for previously acquired skills and knowledge must still comply with all the requirements as stated in learning modules and learning programmes and qualifications. The difference is the route to the assessment. RPL assessment takes a holistic view of the process of assessment where the context of the learning as well as the context of the person who is being assessed is taken into account. Due to the professional requirements of the Degree in Biokinetics, prospective students cannot apply through RPL based on experience or prior learning, unless such an application adheres to the minimum requirements as set out by the Biokinetics Advisory Board of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirements for admission into the honours studies are

• Bachelors Degree in the Human Movement Sciences.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling 160 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 160 Credits.

• Research Methodology and Mini dissertation (MBWK681) 32 Credits.
• Biokinetics: Orthopaedic (MBWB681) 32 Credits.
• Biokinetics: Clinical (MBWB682) 32 Credits.
• Biokinetics: Theory/Health (MBWB683)32 Credits.
• Biokinetics: Professional Internship (MBWB684)32 Credits.

1. Demonstrate the integration and application of scientific knowledge and skill to the scope of practice of Biokinetics.
2. Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge critically relevant within the discipline of Biokinetics and critically evaluate and review that knowledge and the manner in which the knowledge was produced.
3. Select, evaluate and apply a range of different but appropriate scientific methods of qualitative and practice-oriented enquiry to reflect on and then address complex or abstract problems and contribute to positive change within the practice of Biokinetics.
4. Demonstrate the design of scientifically-grounded physical activity/exercise programmes resulting from formal practical evaluations of individuals, teams or patients.
5. Effectively implement and manage rehabilitation programmes for different groups and individuals according to the specific needs.
6. Promote an active and healthy lifestyle of different groups in a community grounded in professional ethical principles using a management approach as leader of a health care team.

Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner to the Exit Level Outcomes

• 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 is achieved.
• The ability to apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information is demonstrated.
• An understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice is critically reflected.
• Professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment, with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations is displayed.
• Scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas, written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology are communicated.
• 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 is demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous and authentic assessment strategies are employed. The relevant module study guides contain the information, assessment criteria and instructions for formative and summative assessment opportunities. This qualification ensures that the knowledge and skills developed during the undergraduate Degree are applied in an integrated, practice-oriented and patient-directed manner which culminates in a research report that has to reflect the student's ability to improve practice via relevant research.