Master of Philosophy in Mindfulness

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to train researchers that can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of mindfulness-based interventions at an advanced level. The qualification will afford the individual the necessary training, supervision and support to be able to reflect critically on theory and its application by means of an advanced research thesis.

Rationale

Despite the increasing volume of mindfulness research internationally there is a paucity of research within the field of mindfulness-based interventions in the African context. The rationale for the qualification is to develop a South African (and African), context-sensitive research base for the application and implementation of mindfulness approaches in diverse aspects of South African society. It will also foster, train and develop a diverse range of competent researchers who can innovatively contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field of mindfulness-based interventions at an advanced level. This knowledge has the potential to benefit the health and welfare of our society as has been demonstrated and described in other countries. This qualification will also allow successful qualifying learners to continue with Doctoral Studies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The qualification conforms to the institution's policies of Assessment Practices and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL). The policy document clearly states the procedures and processes to be followed, including those related to the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The policy stipulates that the responsibility for implementation of the ARPL resides with the Dean of the Faculty. ARPL policy and practices at departmental level is subject to an in-depth and thorough process of self-evaluation and external peer evaluation as a compulsory requirement in the process of periodical and comprehensive departmental evaluation. The Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences has an ARPL policy, to which any application for RPL must comply. Applications for RPL from prospective learners will be evaluated on a case by case basis.

A learner may be granted RPL for exemption and/or CAT for credits of a qualification. RPL for exemption and/or CAT will be accorded per module. Modules will be recognised where the curriculum, outcomes, credits and NQF level of the relevant module broadly match those of the required module in the programme for which the learner wishes to enrol. Recognition will also be accorded to modules where the content included additional work.

Should a learner wish to be considered for admission to the qualification based on RPL the following additional aspect may apply:

> If the documentation presented by the learner does not enable the relevant programme committee to make a decision, the committee may request a personal interview with the learner as final assessment (with at least two academic staff present).

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor's Degree in health, education, business or social sciences, e.g. nursing, social work, psychology, medicine, occupational therapy, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor's Honours Degree in health, education, business or social sciences, e.g. nursing, social work, psychology, medicine, occupational therapy, Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in health, education, business or social sciences, e.g. nursing, social work, psychology, medicine, occupational therapy, Level 8.

Or

• An equivalent mindfulness qualification at Level 8.

This qualification consists of a research module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate a sound knowledge of research practice within the field of mindfulness-based interventions.
2. Perform research independently and make sound judgements using the data and information at their disposal.
3. Communicate findings effectively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Define a research topic dealing with a significant issue relevant to mindfulness-based interventions.
• Systematically review and summarise the literature pertaining to the topic.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Phrase a clear research question(s) and aims relevant to the field of Mindfulness.
• Appropriately use methods to conduct the enquiry.
• Perform statistical analytic procedures for handling data as well as qualitative research.
• Interpret the results and discuss it in relation to the aims of the study in the context of previous literature.
• Demonstrate independent and critical judgement.
• Demonstrate appropriate computer skills, including conducting a literature search, using data management software, word processing and presentation software.
• Demonstrate that the thesis contributes to existing knowledge within the field of mindfulness.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Draw conclusions.
• Make recommendations and.
• Write up findings in a manuscript format acceptable for submission to a peer reviewed scientific, academic or professional journal accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment during supervision sessions and monitoring of research progress. Learner progress will be regularly monitored and via feedback, learners will be helped to identify and build on their strengths, while working on identified weaknesses.

Summative Assessment will be via assessment of the final thesis and will be done by two independent examiners, one of whom will be an external examiner.