Bachelor of Education Honours in Inclusive Education

The aim of the STADIO Bachelor of Education Honours in Inclusive Education programme is to prepare students for research-based postgraduate studies in the field of inclusive education. It serves to consolidate and deepen a student’s theoretical and professional knowledge of the field and to develop appropriate research capacity in methodology and techniques appropriate for addressing issues of inclusive education in the South African context. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence and will empower students with research skills and disciplinary knowledge to identify educational issues and to effectively plan, execute, and report on these critically at a postgraduate level.

The programme will develop a sound knowledge of the historical and philosophical principles which underlie the current South African education system and a critical, academic perspective of the processes of learning, teaching, and the curriculum as well as the dynamic interplay that occurs between them.

It will ensure a coherent and critical understanding of the scope, principles and policies underlying teaching and learning as well as educational support as inclusionary practices in the classroom. It develops students’ professional expertise in the inclusive aspect of current education praxes and will foster progressive thinking in students regarding the field of inclusive education. It will develop a cadre of educators with a wider and deeper understanding of the transformation of education in terms of shifting discourses from the concept of “special needs” to addressing systemic barriers and worldviews that prohibit equal access to quality education for all learners.

The programme will examine interventions aimed at increasing the participation of those learners who are marginalised from the culture and curriculum of the school because of differences. It will play a vital role in the establishment of an inclusive ethos in education and teachers in practice will be well equipped to identify and provide support within a collaborative interdisciplinary team approach. Students will be able to reflect critically on their own practice within a variety of theoretical and philosophical perspectives that link to the South African context. Consequently, the programme will contribute to both the development of the leadership in the field of education and the competence required for independent and collaborative research at higher levels.

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Inclusive Education aims to encourage and support educators in developing skills that strengthen their capacity to identify critical issues and to conduct and develop research informed solutions to promote inclusive education in classrooms, schools and communities. Thus, this programme will prepare educators to be able to undertake independent research at a Masters NQF Level 9.

FURTHER STUDY OPPORTUNITIES 

Completion of the BEdHons (Inclusive Education) qualification meets the minimum entry requirements for a 180 credit NQF Level 9 Masters of Education (various specialisations). This degree is not registered as a professional postgraduate degree with the HPCSA and therefore will not secure students’ entry into a Masters in Educational Psychology or towards a counselling registration with the HCPSA. A qualification may not be awarded for early exit from the programme or incomplete modules.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR DISTANCE LEARNING

Distance learning students have access to STADIO’s student support services via the learning management system. Students can access a range of presentations and online support initiatives aimed at success and wellness. At the start of the semester, new students will be invited to join the online student orientation programme to familiarise themselves with the services offered by STADIO.

STADIO, in partnership with SADAG, has a dedicated STADIO student helpline providing students with free telephonic counselling, information, referrals, and support. Students will also have access to general counselling services.

THE ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR BACHELOR OF EDUCATION HONOURS IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION ARE:

• The Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching, Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching or Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching qualification; OR

• An appropriate Bachelor degree and a recognised professional teaching qualification; OR

• A professional teaching qualification(s) as well as an Advanced Diploma in a cognate sub-field of Education.

The qualification is offered as an 18-month programme, however applicants who have full-time work commitments or personal responsibilities are advised to consider the two-year option which offers them fewer modules per semester. More information on the two-year option can be requested on registration.