Program Overview

Programme: BEd (Intermediate Phase Teaching)

The BEd (Intermediate Phase Teaching) is a four-year undergraduate degree programme designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to teach in the intermediate phase (grades 4-7). The programme focuses on developing teachers who can create supportive and inclusive learning environments, promote social justice and diversity, and foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their students.

Admission Requirements

• The admission requirements apply to students who apply for admission to the University of Pretoria with a National Senior Certificate (NSC) and Independent Examination Board (IEB) qualifications.
• Applicants with qualifications other than the abovementioned should refer to the brochure: Undergraduate Programme Information 2022: Qualifications other than the NSC and IEB.
• Citizens from countries other than South Africa (applicants who are not South African citizens) should also refer to the brochure: Newcomer's Guide 2021.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of fundamental, core, and elective modules. Fundamental modules include Academic Information Management, Classroom Literacies, and Professional Practice. Core modules cover Education, Conversational Competence in an African language, Literacies in Education, and Teaching Practice. Elective modules allow students to specialize in subjects such as Afrikaans, English, Intermediate Mathematics, Natural Science, and Design and Technology, among others.

Core Modules

• Education (OPV 112, 122, OPV 212, 222, OPV 312, 322): This module explores the foundations of education, curriculum design, and the organization of knowledge. It also delves into supportive learning environments, including the whole-school approach and the well-being of the child.
• Conversational Competence (CCZ 100, CCI 100, CCW 100): Students without an African language proficiency can acquire basic conversational competence in IsiZulu, Sepedi, or Setswana.
• Literacies in Education (JLZ 110, 120, JLZ 111, 121): This module focuses on academic reading abilities, academic writing, and the critical analysis of texts.
• Teaching Practice (PRO 280, PRO 380, PRO 452, 453): Students engage in teaching practice in a professional school environment under the supervision of an experienced mentor teacher.

Elective Modules

Students choose two electives at the first-year level, one of which must be a language. These electives continue up to the second-year level. Options include:

• Afrikaans (AFR 110, 120)
• English (ENG 110, 120)
• Intermediate Mathematics (WTW 133, 144)
• Natural Science and Design and Technology (JWT 115, 125)
• Art Education (JKG 100, JKU 101)
• Music Education (JMO 101, 102)
• Life Orientation and Human Movement Studies (JLO 110, 120, JMB 112, 113)

Methodology Modules

In the third and fourth years, students take methodology modules corresponding to their elective subjects. These modules equip students with the knowledge and skills to teach their chosen subjects effectively. Examples include Methodology of Afrikaans, Methodology of English, Methodology of Intermediate Mathematics, and Methodology of Natural Science.

Research Project

• Students complete a research project (JNM 461, 464) that helps them develop a theoretical and practical framework for research in education. The project involves identifying a research problem, planning and executing the research, and presenting the findings in a research report.

Minimum Credits and Degree Completion

The minimum number of credits required for the degree is 680. The degree is conferred with distinction to a student who obtains an overall weighted average (GPA) of 75% with a minimum of 70% in the first three years of study.

Pass Requirements

Students must pass all modules to progress through the programme. The programme also offers opportunities for students to take special and Chancellor's examinations under certain conditions.

Conclusion

The BEd (Intermediate Phase Teaching) programme at the University of Pretoria is designed to produce well-rounded, competent teachers who can make a positive impact in the education sector. With its comprehensive curriculum, practical teaching experiences, and research components, the programme prepares students for the challenges and rewards of teaching in the intermediate phase.