Master of Arts in Industrial Sociology

The main purpose of the Master of Arts in Industrial Sociology, Level 9 is to provide Graduates with the ability to discuss and critically analyse theories and methodology of Industrial Sociology that will allow them to contribute to the current debates in the Industrial Sociology field. Learners graduating with this qualification will apply this knowledge to issues related to Industrial Sociology in the South African context. A qualifying learner will also be able to plan, design and execute research using relevant methodology and report on the findings. A learner will be able to understand, interpret, analyse and present research data.

A qualifying learner will be able to

• Search, organise and interpret information.
• Use information and communication technologies in an academic environment.
• Write a research proposal and report.
• Write academic paper/s.
• Orally present and defend an argument based on evidence.
• Engage peers critically in a constructive manner.
• Discuss theory and methodologies of Industrial Sociology.
• Critically describe and apply industrial sociology models and constructs to social problems the South African contexts.

Rationale

The University of Zululand Department of Sociology is already offering a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Sociology, Level 8 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology, Level 10 which means that the vertical articulation route has a gap at Level 9. This fills that gap. The qualification will allow learners to be able to discuss, analyse and apply the theory and methodologies of Industrial Sociology, which will allow them to apply their knowledge to issues pertinent to the field.

A qualifying learner will be able to

• Search for information, organise and interpret it.
• Use information and communication technologies in an academic environment.
• Write a research proposal and report.
• Write academic paper/s.
• Orally present and defend an argument based on evidence.
• Engage peers critically in a constructive manner.
• Discuss theory and methodologies of Industrial Sociology.
• Critically describe and apply industrial sociology models and constructs to social problems in South African contexts.

Recognition of Prior Learning

The Recognition of Prior Learning is regarded as one of the critical mechanisms for achieving redress and equity and accelerating access to learning.

RPL will be used in the admission of a learner to the qualification where the minimum requirements have not been met, but the learner has evidence that the requirements can be met through RPL.

Learners, who want to be granted credits for prior learning and/or experience for a particular module or modules, will be assessed through RPL.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement is a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Industrial Sociology, Level 8.

This qualification will be completed by research only, i.e. the completion of the module

Field Research in Industrial Sociology, (180 Credits).

1. Construct different theoretical models in Industrial Sociology to specific social problems in South African contexts.
2. Use science and technology effectively showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others and reflect on this process at an advanced level.
3. Design, plan and execute a research task based on a theoretical framework within an authentic context.
4. Search for appropriate resources employing a range of learning strategies and technologies within the field of Industrial Sociology.
5. Demonstrate responsibility towards other members of society.
6. Use employment seeking and entrepreneurial skills in the field of Industrial Sociology.
7. Develop innovative solutions to problems and challenges facing the country.
8. Display cultural sensitivity to people from different cultures based on theoretical knowledge and reflect on this process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

Display cultural sensitivity to people from different cultures based on theoretical knowledge and reflect on this process:

• Social problems in South Africa are identified.
• Theoretical constructs and models to solve the identified problems are developed and applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• The potential harmful effects of technology on the environment are identified and explained.
• The responsible use of technology and science to show responsibility towards the environment and health of others is identified.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• A research question is formulated within authentic context.
• The differences between methodological approaches to social research are explained.
• Appropriate data collection techniques are selected and used.
• Research data is accurately interpreted.
• The importance of upholding high ethical standards in conducting research is demonstrated.
• The limitations of research design is recognised.
• Issues of validity and reliability raised by research design are addressed.
• The validity and reliability of the study are defended.
• Research findings are accurately reported.
• Research reports in an appropriate register are written.
• Research reports are structured in an appropriate and transparent manner and make logical coherent arguments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• A range of learning strategies and technologies are employed to search for appropriate resources.

Associated Assessment Criteria 5 for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Responsibility towards other members of the society is demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria 6 for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Employment seeking and entrepreneurial skills are demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria 6 for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Innovative solutions to problems and challenges facing the country are developed.

Associated Assessment Criteria 8 for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Display cultural sensitivity to people from different cultures based on theoretical knowledge.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous Assessment practices will form an important part of the design of the qualification. Learning outcomes are made explicit to learners and a coherent assessment strategy is in place for each module, with a fair balance between formative and Summative Assessment strategies.

Formative Assessment

A range of formative assessment strategies will be used, such as, short essays, oral presentations to a group of peers, and practical computer-based activities, personal interviews and practical projects. Opportunities for peer assessment will be included.

Summative Assessment

Integrated Assessment, focusing on the achievement of the exit-level outcomes include the drafting of a research proposal and the writing of a research report will be used.