Master of Arts in Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Purpose

This Master's Degree (MA) qualification provides an advanced learning qualification in indigenous knowledge systems emphasising enquiry, innovation and science through which advanced research skills like problem identification, analysis and critical thinking are highly developed.

Rationale

The rationale behind the composition of this qualification is to enable the student to develop as a researcher in indigenous knowledge systems and to conduct a research project successfully and thereby produce skilful researchers to society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for access purposes will require the candidate to comply with the admission requirements of the North West University (NWU).

The North-West University accepts the principle underlying outcomes oriented, source-based and lifelong learning in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a meaningful role. The University also underwrites the view that recognition of previous learning, obtained either by formal teaching qualifications at this or another institution, or informally(obtained by experience), is an indispensable element in granting admission or credits with the aim of placing in a specifically chosen teaching-learning qualification of the University.

In recognising previous learning, it deals with provable knowledge and learning that the applicant obtained by following formal teaching qualifications or by experience. At all times the question will be what level of competence was reached, judged in the context of the exit level skills required for the contemplated teaching-learning qualifications (or modules therein) or status for which the applicant is applying and not merely about the experience the applicant can prove. Recognition of previous learning takes place in terms of the relevant skills that the applicant demonstrated in the application with reference to the exit outcomes that should be reached in the chosen qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission to the Master's Degree is

• Honours Degree in Indigenous Knowledge Systems.

Or

• A similar qualification at Level 8.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 180 Credits

• Mini-Dissertation, 90 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 9

• Indigenous Public Law, 12 Credits.
• Comp Land Tenure inst and Tenure Systems, 12 Credits.
• Indigenous Land and Water Man Systems, 12 Credits.
• Project Dev, Man and Administration, 12 Credits.
• Comparative Indigenous AFR Approaches, 12 Credits.
• Indigenous Knowledge ETC, 12 Credits, 12 Credits.
• Arms Proliferation and Control, 12 Credits.
• African Religions and Philosophies, 12 Credits
• Rural Small-Scale Industries, 12 Credits.
• Indigenous Public Law, 12 Credits.
• Comp Models of Rural Dev Policy, 12 Credits.
• Compar African and Western Political, 12 Credits.
• Drought, Floods and Famine in Dev Countries, 12 Credits.
• Rural Energy Forms and Uses, 12 Credits.
• African Renais and Compar Lang Pol, 12 Credits.
• Rural Poverty in Dev Countries, 12 Credits.

1. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge and advanced competencies in the identification of a viable research question that can be researched individually or within a group, both discipline-specific and interdisciplinary.
2. Demonstrate the ability to design and apply appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative formats and procedures in an ethical and scientific way to investigate the problem.
3. Demonstrate the ability to interpret and report the research findings scientifically and communicate the findings in writing in accordance with academic protocols, and also orally with the aid of Information Technology (IT), to an audience of academic peers.

Associate Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• 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.

Associate Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Demonstrate the ability to apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.

Associate Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• 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.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment of a Master's dissertation initially takes place when the research proposal is considered by the Committee for Advanced Degrees. Approval by this committee is a requirement for the study. The supervisor also assesses continuously while the dissertation is being written. Examination of the dissertation is finally done by at least two examiners of which one is external, all experts in the field of specialisation. A supervisor may not be appointed as an examiner.