Diploma in Plant Science

The purpose of this qualification is to provide adequate vocational training to students in the form of sound knowledge of Agricultural Production Systems and the necessary skills to provide practical solutions related to plant sciences, soil and land management and thus contribute to the improved production of wholesome food from agricultural origin whilst maintaining welfare and wellbeing of crops, animals, human society and the environment.

The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with knowledge and understanding of selected fields in Plant Science, which include basic methodological approaches and theoretical orientations applied to the South African context.

Rationale

The rationale of the qualification is to address the demand for workers in the field of Agriculture who are equipped, not only with the relevant knowledge, but also with vocational skills and thus competent to perform as both workers and entrepreneurs in the field Plant Sciences.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes based, source-based and life-long learning, in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a significant role, and subscribes to the view that recognition of prior learning, whether acquired by formal education curricula at this or another institution, or informally (by experience) is an indispensable element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning programme of the institution, such as the Diploma in Plant Science. Formal prior learning: Prior accredited learning on at least Diploma level, which constitutes credit bearing units or modules, should be recognised if evidence can be produced that shows that the learner has achieved, at a satisfactory level, the outcomes and associated assessment criteria specified for modules at such level, and if appropriate, allows the recognition of prior learning for the achievement of the qualification in part. Non-formal and informal prior experiential learning: An applicant who falls outside of the formal qualifications system but who can demonstrate (through the production of substantial and satisfactory evidence) experiential or work-based learning or a non-formal qualification (or a combination), may be considered for admission and/or for the Recognition of Prior Learning for the achievement of the qualification in part. An applicant who, after such assessment, is deemed to have sufficient potential but is in need of further academic development, will be directed to other suitable learning programmes prior to admission or to parallel programmes after admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements are

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Diploma studies.

Or

• National Certificate (Vocational) NC (V) at Level granting access to Diploma studies.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 5: 120 Credits

• Botany for Agriculture, 12 Credits.
• Physical Science, 12 Credits.
• Pre-Calculus II, 12 Credits.
• Basic Electromagnetism and Modern Physics, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Agricultural Economics, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Animal Science, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Crop Production, 12 Credits.
• Intro to Academic Literacy (AGLE111), 12 Credits.
• Academic Literacy (AGLE121), 12 Credits.
• Pre-Calculus I, 12 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 6: 128 Credits

• Farm Practical II, 8 Credits.
• Intro to Soil Science, 16 Credits.
• Fruit Production, 8 Credits.
• Agricultural Climatology, 12 Credits.
• Farm Machinery, 8 Credits.
• Farm Practical, 8 Credits.
• Soil Conservation, 12 Credits.
• Vegetable Production, 8 Credits.
• Principles of Crop Improvement, 16 Credits.
• Fundamentals of Agricultural Extension, 16 Credits.
• Soil Fertility and Fertilizers, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 7: 112 Credits

• Elementary Irrigation, 16 Credits.
• Weeds and Weeds Control, 16 Credits.
• Agricultural Extension for Development, 8 Credits.
• Elements of Agric. Microbiology, 16 Credits.
• Agronomy of Winter Crops, 8 Credits.
• Agronomy of Summer Crops, 8 Credits.
• Practical Crop Production, 8 Credits.
• Plant Protection, 16 Credits.
• Pedology and Soil Classification, 8 Credits.
• Farm Management and Accounting, 8 Credits.

1. Use knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of Agricultural Mathematics concepts, Agricultural Economics and basic Chemistry as a foundation for in-depth study in an applied field of study.
2. Demonstrate awareness of the relevance of aspects of subject knowledge to the agriculture industries.
3. Demonstrate awareness of the inter-relatedness of Agricultural Science with other subject disciplines.
4. Apply the principles of Agricultural Science to solve problems in the relevant industries.
5. Demonstrate capacity to employ evidence based reasoning to make informed judgments.
6. Evaluate theory, process, solutions and outcomes critically and effectively.
7. Apply appropriate knowledge, skill and attitudes in Agricultural Sciences.
8. Undertake empirical studies involving variety of laboratory based techniques and field practicals in Agricultural Sciences.
9. Apply critical analysis and evidence based reasoning to current research to identify a focus further development.
10. Communicate effectively orally and in writing to diverse audience.
11. Engage in supportive peer collaboration and constructive criticism.
12. Show competent user of information technology.
13. Demonstrate numerical and quantitative skills appropriate to carry out farm recording, experiment and laboratory data collection with minimal guidance.
14. Demonstrate independent learning and critical self-reflection as a basis for personal development and lifelong learning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

The following associated assessment criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all exit level outcomes.

• 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.
• Critically reflect on, and demonstrate understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
• Display 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.
• Effectively function 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

Students will be assessed through a combination of Formative and Summative Assessments consisting of oral presentations, assignments, tests and a written examination on a scheduled date and time.