Master of Audiology

Purpose

The Master of Audiology will empower learners to develop a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the scientific process and develop research skills through hands-on directed research experiences in primary research methods contributing to the knowledge in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The learners will be able to reflect critically on Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology theory and its application. They will be able to design and critically appraise research, make sound judgments using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and skills.

This qualification is at NQF Level 9 and provides a platform to assist learners to develop and demonstrate specialist knowledge. This qualification aims to transform and develop research and current practices of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology in the South African context. This qualification follows an adult learning approach as learners are actively involved and take full responsibility for their own learning. Leaners will therefore be empowered with an in-depth mastery of subject matter in a specialised area to develop professionals in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. In addition, the learners' capacity will be increased as their knowledge base in other fields related to the learners' special area of interest e.g. psychology, health science, education etc. will also be broadened.

The Master of Audiology will enable learners to provide specialised services to the people of South Africa, which will result in improved quality service delivery. The qualification is based on research which creates links to the international community as research is inherently an international activity. An investigation of a physical phenomenon, for example, cannot have a local solution. The solution will be true throughout the universe. It is however, acknowledged that research in the local context should investigate local knowledge systems but much benefit can be derived from comparing such systems with other local systems or sharing methodologies.

The learner will demonstrate an understanding of the qualitative and quantitative research paradigms within a health sciences context and identify and conceptualise a research proposal. The learner will be skilled in doing a literature review and be able to judge and utilise evidence based research results in practice. In addition, the learner will demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues that need to be adhered to and will develop academic writing skills.

They will be able to design and critically appraise research, make sound judgments using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and skills. The learners will demonstrate the skills to report the findings in a scientific manner.

Rationale

It is essential to develop capacity and train specialists who are proficient in African languages. Since 1996 South Africa has been addressing a skills shortage by building capacity. In the field of communication and audiology, the throughput of professionals from African language groups was limited as compared to the demand.

There are learners who are currently registered for the undergraduate Speech Language Pathology and Audiology qualification at the university and are showing interest in continuing their studies at this university. Therefore, by offering a Master's qualification in the field of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, offer the possibility of nurturing future Doctor of Philosophy's (PhD's).

The Department Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology corresponded with the Professional Board for Speech, Language and Hearing Professions at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Master's Degree in Audiology is a professional Master's Degree. The learner must have an undergraduate preparation as a professional. Also, the learner must be registered with the Health Professions council of South Africa as an Audiologist or as an Audiologist and Speech-Language therapist.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Speech Therapy and Audiology, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Speech-Language and Hearing Therapy, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 180 Credits

• Research methodology, 20 Credits.
• Dissertation, 160 Credits.

1. Develop an understanding of the qualitative and quantitative research paradigms within a health sciences context.
2. Develop a proposal.
3. Implement the research process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Compare qualitative and quantitative research paradigms.
• Identify the research topic/s and problems most suitable to each of these paradigms.
• Identify a specific research topic most suitable for the research context.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Demonstrate an understanding of research methodology and, current good practice.
• Motivate the need/importance/rationale of the study to be conducted.
• Design a proposal by integrating and describing research methods and procedures.
• Submit the proposed study for ethical clearance.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Reflect critically on Speech-Language Pathology theory and its application.
• Analyse, interpret and synthesize information relating to the project.
• Acknowledge prior scholarship on which the dissertation is built.
• Describe the methods and procedures used.
• Demonstrate the ability to solve problems and achieve the research objectives.
• Make sound judgments concerning the data/information obtained.
• Present the results sequentially and logically.
• Display the ability to coherently discuss and appraise the results.
• Describe the research process in sufficient detail to permit an independent investigator to replicate the research.
• Report in a scientific manner on the findings.

Integrated Assessment

During year 1 the learners will attend a research methodology course and develop a research proposal. The research proposal will be assessed by the supervisor and co-supervisor and will contribute 20% towards the summative mark.

During year 2 the learner will implement the research process and write a dissertation. The learners will demonstrate an ability to reflect critically on Audiology theory and its application. The dissertation will be assessed by two external examiners decided on according to topic expertise and will contribute 80% towards the summative mark.