Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiology

Purpose

Learners will be able to identify, evaluate and solve physiological problems. The learner will also develop applied competence in the analysis, interpretation and application of physiological principles and concepts in the appropriate environment. Furthermore, the learner will be able to make strategic decisions related to physiology and to assess any internal or external factors impacting on the physiological environment. Lastly the learner will also be able to reflect on his/her scientific decisions and applications to assess their effect in the holistic context of physiology as a practice.

Rationale

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiology will provide an opportunity to learners to register as a Professional Natural Scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). This qualification will provide learners with the opportunity to advance their research skills and strengthen their knowledge regarding the fundamental concepts of Physiology as well as the practical application thereof.

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiology enables qualified graduates to enter a range of professional and entrepreneurial opportunities which include positions such as researchers and consultants in tertiary institutions and industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Institution and the Faculty of Science accept Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and prior learning will be assessed and credited according to well established procedures and guidelines according to the institutions RPL policy. RPL may be used to grant admission to the qualification to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements and to grant advanced standing to learners through the granting of exemptions.

Entry Requirements

Bachelor of Science with Integrated Physiology or an appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification.

The qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 8, totalling 126 Credits.

• Laboratory Skills, 8 Credits.
• Philosophy and Research Methodology, 8 Credits.
• Cell Physiology, 8 Credits.
• Morphometrics, 8 Credits.
• Neuro and Endocrinology, 16 Credits.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiology, 16 Credits.
• Nervous System Mechanisms and Integration with Drugs, 16 Credits.
• Environmental Physiology, 16 Credits.
• Research Project, 30 Credits.

1. Interpret, make inferences and recommendations and critically assess physiological and eco-physiological problems.
2. Identify, locate, evaluate and consolidate literature on projects, seminars and study course material and analyse and evaluate experimental data relating to health, biological, eco-physiological and environmental issues.
3. Analyse visual and mathematical data statistically and present results in the form of written research reports and oral presentations using terminology correctly and informatively.

The Associated Assessment Criteria are applicable across the range of Exit Level Outcomes and may be considered in an integrated way.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Generate, identify and collect experimental data with respect to physiological and eco-physiological environmental problems.
• Collect and identify physiological and environmental samples in groups and individually.
• Plan, manage and execute the results using both oral and written communication methods.
• Identify, locate, evaluate and consolidate literature.
• Analyse and evaluate obtained or supplied experimental data relating to health, biological, eco-physiological and environmental issues.
• Use scientific and technological knowledge and skills effectively and critically in analysing issues of a physiological nature.
• Identify and resolve problems in a specific eco-region and reflect on the socio-economic impact that this specific eco-region has on the many interrelated systems in the biosphere.
• Explore, reflect on and use a variety of learning/cognitive strategies, including critical and analytical thinking, in order to manage information regarding physiological issues.
• Participate in and take responsibility for the monitoring and maintenance of the biotic and abiotic environment locally and nationally.
• Show sensitivity towards the conservation of the environment and be mindful of the anthropogenic, cultural and aesthetic influences on the environment.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment of the qualifications forms an integral part of the teaching and learning process of the Honours qualification. The assessment of all modules is in line with the university's teaching and learning policy, including assessment guidelines. The course-work aspect of this qualification will include formative and summative assessment opportunities including assignments, assessments, presentations and other assessment opportunities that include a number of on-line evaluations.

A final summative evaluation for each module will be conducted at the end of the semester.

Formative and summative assessment

In terms of the research component of the qualification, the supervisor will be responsible for the diagnostic and formative assessments of the product in order to provide feedback in terms of the final evaluation criteria. Teaching and learning of research methodology topics are promoted in this manner and is also a way of monitoring the learner's progress.