SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Postgraduate Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118422	Postgraduate Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma	Field 02 - Culture and Arts		Sport
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2021-11-18	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of the Postgraduate Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science is to develop learners who will be able to generate, interpret, disseminate and apply disciplinary knowledge across various contexts, inciting health, productivity and quality of life.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:

Identify complex and abstract problems in unfamiliar working or industry-related settings, conduct literature research and process information to design and prescribe elite sport performances and advocate physical activity.

Address multiple resources and critically review factors needed for research planning and process, experimental design and apply different research techniques and strategies, utilised in practice.

Demonstrate applied competencies within the context of the industry.

Utilise the latest technologies in the planning and conception of high-performance programmes, exercise testing and sports analysis.

Take full responsibility and practice independently in the role of leaders and managers in sports science and coaching.

Conduct research within the kinesiology and coaching sciences, with the emphasis of equipping them to use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex problems in work or industry-related environment by conducting a literature search and process information to formulate a solution related to problem-solving and research.

The qualification will focus on an integrated body of knowledge, skills, and applied competencies, mainly within a South African context, converging with African and international perspectives. Furthermore, the qualification will address matters such as exercise techniques, performance testing, sports coordination, related management, talent identification, advisory techniques and officiating.

Rationale:
The qualification was developed to fulfil the current need of deepening and strengthening knowledge related to the field of Kinesiology and Coaching Sciences. To fulfil the need for this qualification the department will amongst others focus on the deepening and strengthening of the related bodies of knowledge, skills, and applied competencies in the related fields of study. The related advisory board, consisting of representatives from industry and other stakeholders was consulted and present during the process of conceptualisation. The purpose of their involvement was to ensure the design of a qualification, which would be of high quality, relevant to and aligned with the latest developments and technologies in the profession, related business, and industry.

The qualification would provide for job creation, capacitating practitioners to transform and upskill scientific applications in sport, recreation and performance endeavours in an inclusive environment in the community, and to contribute to national objectives in Sports Science and Coaching as stated in the National Development Plan (NDP).

Qualifying learners will be able to perform work at a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence and to apply theories, research methodologies, methods, and techniques in a range of contexts. This qualification will prepare learners to perform middle management duties.

Qualifying learners will be able to contribute to the economic and social development of the South African region by developing creative and academically sound responses to problems and issues.

The qualification provides qualifying learners with the opportunity to work in fields such as sports medicine masseur, fitness instructor, sports scientist, sports coaches and instructors and officials. The qualification contributes directly to the development of a well-rounded practitioner, equipped to contribute directly to the socio-economic and health development of the people of South Africa.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The learner can achieve part of the qualification through the recognition of relevant prior learning which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning. The institutional policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is followed. Learners need to apply for RPL, and each application will be handled on an individual basis. The institution uses Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for access, advanced standing, and credits.

RPL for access:

Candidates who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements but who can demonstrate satisfactory levels of competence in the field may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning and may be granted entry to the qualification on this basis.

RPL for credits:

Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.

RPL can enable exemption from courses or components of courses in cases where learners have gained sufficient mastery of the content and skills of those areas of the curriculum.

The learner must demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes indicated in the qualification to obtain credits/credit exemptions.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Advanced Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science, NQF Level 7.
Or

A relevant qualification in the related field, NQF Level 7.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:

Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology, 36 Credits.

Research Methodology, 24 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits (Select two modules):

Applied Sport Science A, 30 Credits.

Applied Sport Science B, 30 Credits.
OR

Applied Coaching Science A, 30 Credits.

Applied Coaching Science B, 30 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of and engagement in an area at the forefront of kinesiology and coaching science and related disciplines or practices; Demonstrate an understanding of the theories, research methodologies, ethical requirements and techniques relevant to the field; and an understanding of how to apply such knowledge in a particular context of sport and coaching science research methodology and research ethics.
2. Investigate and critically reflect on a range of specialised skills and methods of enquiry to identify, analyse and address multifaceted or abstract problems identified in the field of kinesiology and coaching science ethically and professionally.
3. Facilitate, manage and critically reflect activities within the specific context of kinesiology and coaching science, taking decisions and responding ethically and professionally.
4. Produce and communicate ideas and results using appropriate academic, professional discourse by implementing a variety of methodologies and advanced techniques relevant to the field of kinesiology and coaching science.
5. Demonstrate an ability to take full responsibility for his or her work, decision-making and use of resources, and full accountability for the decisions and actions of others where appropriate. Identify, evaluate and address his or her learning needs in a self-critical manner, and facilitate collaborative learning processes of peers within an appropriate research environment.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Recognise, research, evaluate, process and apply integrated and detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of kinesiology and coaching science concepts, principles and rules to relevant examples in the fields of kinesiology and coaching science.

Identify, analyse and resolve sport and coaching science concepts, theories and strategies in the research fields of advanced sport and coaching science using applicable examples typically to the kinesiology and coaching science.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Identify and apply methods of enquiry to investigate complex problems in the field of kinesiology and coaching science and current topical research areas.

Evaluate and apply evidence-based solutions to case studies relevant to the field.

Distinguish, contrast and apply methods in advanced sports science and coaching science research methodology, to resolve problems using research and theory-driven arguments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Identify, formulate and execute activities, decisions and actions regarding research methodology and research practice within an appropriate and controlled research environment by critically reflecting, facilitating and managing the research process ethically and professionally.

Defend, appraise and judge ethical values and approaches to research-management principles and research practice, with regards to decisions and actions, decided on, based on research results, to assess the validity and appropriateness of the research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Justify and debate appropriate academic, professional discourse using an assortment of technologies, methodologies, and techniques relevant to research in the field of kinesiology and coaching science.

Carry out creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to the context of kinesiology and coaching science.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Analyse and base individual accountability and problem-solving issues on evidence and procedures appropriate to the field of kinesiology and coaching science.

Identify, tailor, evaluate and address the continuous professional development of learning needs in a self-critical manner to facilitate collaborative learning processes of both the learner and his/her peers within an appropriate research environment.

Refer personal and peer conduct and accountability to relevant organisational structures.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The comparison showed a substantial degree of similarity regarding the subject matter and qualification content. This qualification was compared to the following international qualifications:

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Technology Sydney
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Human Movement (Honours)
Full time: one year / part-time: two years
The qualification is designed to provide learners with the resources to further develop and apply their research skills and to pursue special areas of interest in depth. The qualification aims to develop, at an advanced undergraduate level, knowledge of human movement through research; facilitate the completion of a substantive research thesis that focuses on theory, applied/professional issues or some combination of these; provide a direct pathway to graduate-level study, and make contributions to knowledge in the field of human movement. Career options include exercise science, sports science, fitness and corporate health, physical activity and health, health promotion, sports coaching, sports development, sports management and strength and conditioning.

Country: Australia
Institution: Edith Cowan University
Qualification Title: Graduate Certificate of Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning)
Full time: One year
This qualification provides sport science learners with an opportunity to enhance their training in the field of strength and conditioning. Admission to this qualification is a Bachelor Degree in Sports Science, Human Movement, Physical Education, Exercise Physiology, and Kinesiology. The qualification will equip learners to apply cognitive and technical skills to evaluate athlete performance in complex physical training contexts. Learners will be able to critically appraise complex scientific research and theory to demonstrate an advanced level of strength and conditioning knowledge and ideas. Finally, they will be able to demonstrate advanced level communication skills and independent judgement in applied sport science contexts.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: University of Bath
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science Honours in Sport and Exercise Science
Full time: Three years
Sport and Exercise Science is an interdisciplinary subject area with core disciplines in biomechanics, psychology, and physiology. It follows a semester-based structure with 60 credits of study each year.
The curriculum is informed by both research and professional practice and offers generic and specific knowledge and skills whilst allowing for depth and specialism in the final year. Most units are taken in the first two years (Stage 1 and 2), are compulsory. This is designed to ensure that all learners have the necessary multidisciplinary foundation for embarking on the sandwich route or final year study. Optional units allow learners to broaden their focus to include some technological or sociological issues in sport and exercise. As the programmes progress, emphasis is shifted from scientific and theoretical foundation to practical applications in a variety of contexts.

Country: Scotland
Institution: University of West Scotland
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science Honours in Sport Coaching
Full time: Four years
The curriculum is structured in four levels of study, each valued at 120 credits. To be awarded an Honours degree, learners must achieve 480 credits. The degree design provides for an exit point at Level 3 with an ordinary degree (360 credits) or at Level 2 with a Diploma (240 credits).
The qualification emphasizes the theory of sports coaching, to enable learners to develop a fuller understanding of the profession through classroom-based learning. The qualification covers the factors relevant to sporting performance - sports psychology, physiology, biomechanics tactics and decision-making, and models of athlete development - and marries the theoretical aspects of these subjects to their application in coaching situations. All the learners will coach local schoolchildren in the first year and go on coaching placements in the second and third years.

Country: Australia
Institution: Open University
Qualification Title: Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Fitness
Full time: 4-6 years
The qualification provides an understanding of the scientific and coaching knowledge relevant to professional practice in instructional settings in sport and fitness, it also includes aspects of management.
The first part (Level 1) introduces key concepts in both sport and fitness with a strong emphasis on instruction/coaching, and customer focus. It also offers you the opportunity to develop individual work skills and investigate the wider business context in which organizations operate.
At Level 2 focus is on the application of aspects of sports science including sport and exercise psychology, training/conditioning and exploration of how coaches/instructors learn. There is also a choice of further specialist areas to investigate.
The qualification will take between four- and six years of part-time study to complete. By completing a further 120 credits study at Level 3 you can gain a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (Open) degree with honours.
The duration of the Open University's qualification differs from what the new qualification offers, although the credits of each qualification are the same. Learners from the University of West Scotland are required to do practicals or coaching sessions at schools which is in line with the requirements of the proposed qualification.

Country: Botswana
Institution University of Botswana
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Education in Physical Education
Full time: Four years
The qualification is designed to produce well-qualified teachers, train sports administrators, coaches and recreation leaders. The main focus of the qualification is on teacher training. This makes it different from the proposed qualification which is not intended for teacher preparation.

The similarities between the above-mentioned qualifications are that they both train coaches and sports administrators.
At all the levels of study, the Botswana qualification includes practical subjects in various sports which are similar to the proposed qualification.

There are no similar qualifications in other countries in the SADC region, but rather provides a unique opportunity for learners from these countries to be trained as sports scientists, coaches and researchers in South Africa. These professions are greatly needed in these African countries to promote sports participation and development. Limited international institutions are offering Postgraduate Diploma qualifications in the Kinesiology and Coaching Science field. Most of the institutions provide Bachelor Honours qualifications where learners can articulate vertically into a Masters qualification and share a similar curriculum structure with the South African qualification.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Biokinetics, NQF Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Health Sciences, NQF Level 9.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

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PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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