Postgraduate Diploma in Agricultural Extension

Purpose

The purpose of this Postgraduate qualification is to equip learners with advanced knowledge of agricultural extension themes, such as Agricultural Technology transfer, marketing, project appraisal and management, land reform and development and basic research skills, which will enable them to contribute to the socio-economic development of society and promote food security nationally and internationally.

Rationale

South Africa is still a developing country in need of land management and rural development specialists who can focus on the enhancement of the quality of work life of its citizens. The rationale of this Postgraduate qualification is to meet the need in South Africa for agricultural extensionists, who can contribute to planning that land development is balanced with food security.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The principles underlying outcomes based, source-based and lifelong learning are subscribed to. In this context, considerations of articulation and mobility play an important role. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) constitutes an essential element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning qualification.

RPL does not only imply assessment to determine the level of skills and knowledge the learner already possesses, but also the skills and knowledge the learner has to master prior to being accepted for the qualification. The assessment processes involved with RPL are the same as those followed for awarding credits in the formal learning setting. An RPL learner seeking credits for previously acquired skills and knowledge, must still comply with all the requirements as stated for modules, qualifications and qualifications. The difference lies in the route of the assessment, since RPL assessment may be holistic in nature taking the context of the qualification as well as the prior knowledge and experience of the person who is being assessed into account.

Entry Requirements

• Advanced Diploma in Agricultural extension, Level 7.

Or

• Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, Level 7.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 8, totalling 136 Credits

• Leadership Development in Agricultural Extension, 16 Credits.
• Agriculture and Economic Development, 16 Credits.
• Rural Community Development, 16 Credits.
• Essentials of Agricultural Extension, 16 Credits.
• Agricultural Project Appraisal, 16 Credits.
• Elements of Communication in Agricultural Extension, 16 Credits.
• Research Methods and Project, 24 Credits.
• Change in Agriculture, 16 Credits.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of agricultural extension and a fundamental knowledge of its principles and apply them to agricultural, resource, economic, rural and related issues.
2. Appraise research problems, conduct research and interpret findings within the context of current scientific knowledge.
3. Assist farmers and rural communities in drawing up business plans for specific farming enterprises.
4. Demonstrate the ability of continuous learning in the field of agricultural economics at higher academic levels.
5. Demonstrate an appropriate level of problem identification and conceptualization skills to focus on realistic and relevant research problems.
6. Effectively disseminate research and technical information, including the practical implications of research findings.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Show and understanding of systematic and integrated knowledge and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
• Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as in technology.
• Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
• Show professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment, with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
• Effectively function as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.
• Critically reflect on, and show understanding and application of, appropriate methods.
• Practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous Formative Assessment strategies in the form of assignments, portfolios, tests, etc. are employed as well as Integrated Summative Assessments in the form of formal examinations and a mini-research project and report. Oral presentations of smaller integrated research projects or seminars in individual as well as group context may also be employed. Students are continuously assessed on the application of integrated knowledge and advanced skills in order to assure that they are competent for the work place.