Postgraduate Diploma in Nature Conservation

Purpose

The qualification is aimed at providing access to Masters Degree qualifications and developing a career path for graduates.

The Postgraduate Diploma qualification develops the academic ability to apply scientific methods in supervised research and/or problem solving and the communication and/or effective implementation of investigative research findings. It focuses on whole-system management of terrestrial biomes, freshwater ecosystems and marine and coastal regions.

Rationale

The Qualification objective is to develop a post graduate career path for diplomates and qualified Nature Conservators by developing their skills in management fields aimed specifically at management within Protected Areas, and developing research skills to prepare them for further post graduate study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In accordance with the Institution's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy candidates may gain access to the qualification without the prerequisite formal qualification by being granted advanced standing on the basis of the assessment of prior learning. In addition registered learners in the qualification may have prior learning assessed to be granted exemption from certain modules according to the Institution's policy and procedures.

Entry Requirements

Candidates must have either of the following to gain entrance

• Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation.

Or

• Bachelor of Technology in Nature Conservation.

Or

• Equivalent qualification with an aggregate of 60% for all major subjects.

This qualification consists of seven compulsory modules each worth 20 Credits totalling 120 Credits.

• Environmental Extension IV.
• Sustainable Development.
• Conservation Ecology V.
• Research Project.
• Research Proposal.
• Resource Management VI.
• Resource Management V.

1. Apply educational knowledge, skills, principles and methods to manage ecosystems as Nature Conservationists or managers of terrestrial, freshwater or marine and coastal ecosystems.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the need for and management of sustainable development in Protected Areas.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the latest developments in the field of environmental extension and proficient in the use of the latest tools and techniques.
4. Present a research proposal.
5. Design, execute, analyse and report on research in the context of natural resource management and conservation.
6. Communicate effectively with supervisors, peers, subordinates and other nature conservation professionals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Scientific method to collecting information required for managing living natural resources are applied.
• Techniques of protecting and restoring ecosystems and species are employed.
• The concept of flux in nature and its applicability in protected area management is explained.
• The importance of including people in protected area management is highlighted.
• Change in protected areas is monitored.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• The concept of sustainable development is explained.
• Biodiversity prospecting and its control and management in Protected Areas is critically analysed.
• Mechanisms for the valuation of Protected Areas is understood and applied.
• An understanding that the concept of a biosphere reserve as an important sustainable development initiative is demonstrated.
• The role of ecotourism in sustainable development of Protected Areas is analysed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Principles and practices of extension management are applied.
• Environmental extension is analysed.
• Elements of communication in extension are applied.
• Environmental extension programme is planned and evaluated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• A chosen field/area of research is identified.
• A survey of previous research on the field/area is completed.
• A survey of relevant literature conducted.
• A list relevant reference is cited.
• A provisional title for the research project is supplied.
• The context of research approach is identified.
• Research methodology to be used is described.
• Research goals and objectives are formulated.
• The research procedure is summarised and a written proposal is submitted.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• The term research is defined and discussed.
• Research is related to nature conservation.
• The characteristics of research are discussed.
• Knowledge of the tools of research is demonstrated.
• Knowledge of the preparation of research is applied.
• Knowledge of the special approaches towards nature conservation research is demonstrated.
• Awareness of typical problems relating to nature conservation and/or technological research is demonstrated.
• General knowledge of the writing of scientific and technological seminars is demonstrated.
• Knowledge of research methodology is demonstrated.
• Knowledge of biometrical calculations is applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Confidence in speaking is demonstrated.
• Fluency in current conservation terminology is demonstrated.
• Integrated writing skills are demonstrated.
• Analytical reading skills are demonstrated.
• Interpersonal skills are demonstrated.
• Task, activity and report books are used and managed effectively.
• Record keeping is effective.
• Processing of analytical observations is accurate.
• Interpretation and appropriate application of a wide range of data is demonstrated.
• Filing system is managed effectively.
• Correspondence is handled effectively.
• Telephone techniques are used effectively.
• Appropriate and effective body language is displayed.
• Communication with supervisor, peers and subordinates is effective.
• Conflict resolution skills are demonstrated.
• Dynamics of negotiations are understood and demonstrated.
• Knowledge of intercultural communication is applied.
• Moral standards are adhered to.
• Mutual respect for supervisor, peers and subordinates is demonstrated.
• A variety of routine and non-routine responsibilities are handled effectively.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment is continuous and done on the following basis

Formative assessment the following

• Assignments.
• Written tests.
• Practical tests.
• Mini projects.
• Research proposal.
• Research project progress reports.
• Reports.
• Oral evaluation.
• Presentations.

Summative assessment

• Written examinations.
• Research project report.
• Practical examinations.
• A portfolio of work is compiled and assessed.