Master of Language Practice

Purpose

The Master of Language Practice empowers learners to master skills of researching to contribute to the language field and to prepare them to become doctoral learners. The learners must report the research problem, its justification, process and outcome in a dissertation which complies with the generally accepted norms at that level.

The learners will be able to conduct independent research under minimal guidance in a chosen field and contribute to knowledge production in that field.

Rationale

The rationale is for learners to update their knowledge and improve their job security.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners may apply for admission to the qualification based on the demonstration of potential to research the topic of their choice through writing a research concept paper, and the qualification will assesses this.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Arts Honours in Applied Language Studies, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma: Applied Language Studies, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 180 Credits

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the field/area of investigation.
2. Apply research methods and techniques appropriately.

Associated Assessment Criteria for the Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand and demonstrate knowledge of the field/ area of investigation.
• Ensure the listed and cited literature and the exposition of research reflects thorough familiarity with relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for the Exit Level Outcome 2

• Identify, define and detail the research method and the research problem clearly in the research proposal.
• Ensure the stated hypotheses and objectives or sub-problems direct the investigation.
• Ensure the logical interpretation of data reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and evaluate contradictory information.
• Analyse, explain and juxtapose the models, principles, theories and methodologies in the chosen field correctly in the written record of research.
• Justify the use of the chosen method of research fully and correctly in the written record of research.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment: This is handled by supervisors who will oversee the learner's research from the proposal stage up to its approval by the departmental research committee, faculty research committee and finally by the Higher Degrees Committee. During the write-up stage, the supervisors may assess the learner's work chapter by chapter or use themes. Throughout the process, the supervisor will write progress reports up to the stage when the learner is ready to submit.