Conceptions of academics concerning the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios in higher education
- Authors: Champion, Eunice Nomava
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Portfolios in education , Lecture method in teaching , College teaching , College teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9591 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021175
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the conceptions of academics at the NMMU concerning the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios in higher education. The study was guided by the following research question: What are the conceptions of academics concerning the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios in higher education? A case study, involving academics at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), was used to answer the research question. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design was employed to collect data from an electronic questionnaire consisting of Likert-scale type of responses and open-ended questions, followed by two focus group interviews with academics that had prior experience in the development of a teaching portfolio. Forty-five academics responded to the questionnaire sent to all the academics at the NMMU, providing a broad perspective on the conceptions of NMMU academics regarding the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios. The two focus group interviews were conducted with six and eight academics respectively who was purposively chosen for their prior experience with the development of teaching portfolios. The aim of the focus group interviews were to elaborate on the data generated by the questionnaire. The quantitative data gathered by the questionnaire was statistically analysed, generating descriptive statistics of the Likert type response statements. The transcripts of the focus group interviews were thematically analysed. The conceptual framework that initially guided the formulation of the sub-research questions was amended to include the themes that emerged from the thematic analysis of the data, namely: the portfolio development process, the uses of and purposes for developing teaching portfolios, the attitudes of academics towards teaching portfolios, and the benefits gained from the development of teaching portfolios. The findings of the study revealed that of the participants find work overload and additional responsibilities as major constraints and collaboration among peers as the most helpful factor in the development of a teaching portfolio. The findings further revealed that the majority of the participants identified items to be included in a teaching portfolio that would enable them to use the portfolio in the development of their teaching. A mixture of attitudes towards teaching portfolios was identified. Some academics (in particular those who have prior experience in the development of portfolios) displayed a positive attitude towards teaching portfolios, while participants reported a negative attitude towards teaching portfolios by most of their colleagues (mostly those who have not developed a portfolio yet). The negative attitudes do seem to overpower the positive attitudes towards teaching portfolios. The challenge to the NMMU would therefore be to get academics to make use of the initiatives provided by the NMMU to assist them with the teaching portfolio development process. Four recommendations that may serve as guidelines to assist in the successful implementation of teaching portfolios at the NMMU were made, based on the findings of the study. Although the results of this study cannot be generalized to other higher education institutions, they do provide insights in the conception of the academics regarding the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios at the NMMU that can be of benefit to other higher education institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Champion, Eunice Nomava
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Portfolios in education , Lecture method in teaching , College teaching , College teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9591 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021175
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the conceptions of academics at the NMMU concerning the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios in higher education. The study was guided by the following research question: What are the conceptions of academics concerning the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios in higher education? A case study, involving academics at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), was used to answer the research question. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design was employed to collect data from an electronic questionnaire consisting of Likert-scale type of responses and open-ended questions, followed by two focus group interviews with academics that had prior experience in the development of a teaching portfolio. Forty-five academics responded to the questionnaire sent to all the academics at the NMMU, providing a broad perspective on the conceptions of NMMU academics regarding the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios. The two focus group interviews were conducted with six and eight academics respectively who was purposively chosen for their prior experience with the development of teaching portfolios. The aim of the focus group interviews were to elaborate on the data generated by the questionnaire. The quantitative data gathered by the questionnaire was statistically analysed, generating descriptive statistics of the Likert type response statements. The transcripts of the focus group interviews were thematically analysed. The conceptual framework that initially guided the formulation of the sub-research questions was amended to include the themes that emerged from the thematic analysis of the data, namely: the portfolio development process, the uses of and purposes for developing teaching portfolios, the attitudes of academics towards teaching portfolios, and the benefits gained from the development of teaching portfolios. The findings of the study revealed that of the participants find work overload and additional responsibilities as major constraints and collaboration among peers as the most helpful factor in the development of a teaching portfolio. The findings further revealed that the majority of the participants identified items to be included in a teaching portfolio that would enable them to use the portfolio in the development of their teaching. A mixture of attitudes towards teaching portfolios was identified. Some academics (in particular those who have prior experience in the development of portfolios) displayed a positive attitude towards teaching portfolios, while participants reported a negative attitude towards teaching portfolios by most of their colleagues (mostly those who have not developed a portfolio yet). The negative attitudes do seem to overpower the positive attitudes towards teaching portfolios. The challenge to the NMMU would therefore be to get academics to make use of the initiatives provided by the NMMU to assist them with the teaching portfolio development process. Four recommendations that may serve as guidelines to assist in the successful implementation of teaching portfolios at the NMMU were made, based on the findings of the study. Although the results of this study cannot be generalized to other higher education institutions, they do provide insights in the conception of the academics regarding the nature and purpose of teaching portfolios at the NMMU that can be of benefit to other higher education institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation into how two Grade 11 Physical Science teachers mediate learning of the topic chemical equilibrium : a case study
- Authors: Chani, Fungisisai M
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Chemical equilibrium -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2023 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017334
- Description: The Namibian Physical Science Higher Level Syllabus requires students to study the topic on chemical equilibrium. This section has proven to be one of the most difficult for Namibian learners as reflected by their poor responses to questions in the Grade 12 NSSC ‘H’ examinations. Triggered by these discoveries, I decided to conduct a research on how teachers mediate learning of the topic on chemical equilibrium in a Namibian context. Conducted at a private school in Windhoek, the study involved two experienced Grade 11 Physical Science teachers renowned for good results. I adopted a qualitative case study underpinned by an interpretive paradigm. Sense making of concepts on chemical equilibrium was my unit of analysis. To generate data, I used document analysis, semi-structured interviews, lesson observations, which were videotaped as well as stimulated recall interviews. Vygotsky’s mediation of learning and social constructivism blended with Shulman’s pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) were the theoretical frameworks adopted in the study. During the analysis process, there was grouping of data into categories. These included teacher-learner interactions as emphasized by Vygotsky’s mediation of learning and learners’ challenges according to PCK. I used an inductive approach to identify emerging themes from my data. The themes were colour coded and the developed into analytical statements. Data triangulation, member checking, and peer review ensured data validity and trustworthiness. Stimulated recall interviews conducted while watching the videos with the two teachers, complemented these approaches. My findings were that teachers extensively used various meditational tools such as prior knowledge, language, analogies and an equilibrium game to mediate learning. The teachers experienced numerous challenges during mediation of learning, including language difficulties and learners’ failure to comprehend complex chemical equilibrium concepts. Notwithstanding, the teachers in this study managed to some extent to overcome the challenges by exhibiting facets of advanced PCK.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chani, Fungisisai M
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Chemical equilibrium -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2023 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017334
- Description: The Namibian Physical Science Higher Level Syllabus requires students to study the topic on chemical equilibrium. This section has proven to be one of the most difficult for Namibian learners as reflected by their poor responses to questions in the Grade 12 NSSC ‘H’ examinations. Triggered by these discoveries, I decided to conduct a research on how teachers mediate learning of the topic on chemical equilibrium in a Namibian context. Conducted at a private school in Windhoek, the study involved two experienced Grade 11 Physical Science teachers renowned for good results. I adopted a qualitative case study underpinned by an interpretive paradigm. Sense making of concepts on chemical equilibrium was my unit of analysis. To generate data, I used document analysis, semi-structured interviews, lesson observations, which were videotaped as well as stimulated recall interviews. Vygotsky’s mediation of learning and social constructivism blended with Shulman’s pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) were the theoretical frameworks adopted in the study. During the analysis process, there was grouping of data into categories. These included teacher-learner interactions as emphasized by Vygotsky’s mediation of learning and learners’ challenges according to PCK. I used an inductive approach to identify emerging themes from my data. The themes were colour coded and the developed into analytical statements. Data triangulation, member checking, and peer review ensured data validity and trustworthiness. Stimulated recall interviews conducted while watching the videos with the two teachers, complemented these approaches. My findings were that teachers extensively used various meditational tools such as prior knowledge, language, analogies and an equilibrium game to mediate learning. The teachers experienced numerous challenges during mediation of learning, including language difficulties and learners’ failure to comprehend complex chemical equilibrium concepts. Notwithstanding, the teachers in this study managed to some extent to overcome the challenges by exhibiting facets of advanced PCK.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Training of officials in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Charles, Kidwell
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Municipal officials and employees -- Training of , Local government -- South Africa -- East London , Customer relations -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7659 , vital:22480
- Description: The impetus that informs the drive for developmental state that promotes growth and development centres on the local capacity of the local sphere of the government to effectively discharge its responsibilities. The essence of this study is to evaluate the training of officials in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and assess the extent to which service delivery has impacted on the lives of the community within this area.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Charles, Kidwell
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Municipal officials and employees -- Training of , Local government -- South Africa -- East London , Customer relations -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7659 , vital:22480
- Description: The impetus that informs the drive for developmental state that promotes growth and development centres on the local capacity of the local sphere of the government to effectively discharge its responsibilities. The essence of this study is to evaluate the training of officials in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and assess the extent to which service delivery has impacted on the lives of the community within this area.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2015
Hydrothermal co-liquefaction of microalgae biomass and coal
- Authors: Charlie, David
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Microalgae -- Biotechnology Biomass chemicals , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50087 , vital:42035
- Description: In this research, the objective was to investigate under the chosen liquefaction conditions whether co-liquefaction of coal and microalgae biomass as agglomerates does possess a distinct advantage over the individual liquefaction of microalgae and coal. This was initially done by preparing dry micro algal biomass, followed by the preparation of coal fines and finally coal-algae as agglomerates. The agglomerates were prepared by continuously adsorbing wet concentrated microalgae slurry/solution onto the dry coal fines in order to prepare different ratios of coal-algae agglomerate(s). Ultimate analysis of the starting material (coal fines and the microalgae) as well the agglomerates then followed. According to research, wet microalgae biomass has the potential of acting as a hydrogen donor. By preparing the agglomerates, the rationale was to promote hydrogen supply from the micro algal biomass that has high hydrogen content to the coal with lower hydrogen content. The resulting product was then expected to have fairly higher hydrogen content. However, this was not observed or evident from the elemental analysis results. The results (elemental composition) showed no difference between the agglomerates and the coal. Based on the observed ultimate analysis results, liquefaction experiments were conducted to determine whether hydrogen transfer and the expected synergistic effect between micro algal biomass and coal would occur. The crude oil product was recovered and simulated distillation technique was used for the characterization of the crude oil product. The results we in agreement that higher yields can be achieved during co-liquefaction as compared to the individual liquefaction. A possible synergistic effect that was investigated in this research existed. Liquefaction results provided evidence of higher yields recovery from the agglomerates compared to those of coal fines and microalgae biomass. Although there was higher recovery on the agglomerates, there appears to be a downward trend (decrease) in product recovery with higher loadings of micro algal biomass on to the coal. This means that higher loading of micro algal biomass tend to suppress liquefaction of coal, thus resulting in lower product recovery. While lower loadings tend to effectively facilitate the liquefaction of coal, thus proving that the proposed synergistic effect between the two does exist. Overall product recovery (yields) of the agglomerates is higher compared to the individual recovery of coal fines and microalgae biomass. This was followed by mass balancing to determine the overall conversion. Higher conversions were achieved on the agglomerates compared to coal. This could mean that microalgae have the potential to facilitate the liquefaction of coal and improve its conversion. The observed trend results in improved conversion as well as higher oil yields (simulated distillation results). Overall, the mass balancing provided insightful information regarding the coal-microalgae interaction based on the conversion, and this further corresponds or supports the simulated distillation results. This research paper provides evidence of the synergistic effect that exists between micro algal biomass and coal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Charlie, David
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Microalgae -- Biotechnology Biomass chemicals , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50087 , vital:42035
- Description: In this research, the objective was to investigate under the chosen liquefaction conditions whether co-liquefaction of coal and microalgae biomass as agglomerates does possess a distinct advantage over the individual liquefaction of microalgae and coal. This was initially done by preparing dry micro algal biomass, followed by the preparation of coal fines and finally coal-algae as agglomerates. The agglomerates were prepared by continuously adsorbing wet concentrated microalgae slurry/solution onto the dry coal fines in order to prepare different ratios of coal-algae agglomerate(s). Ultimate analysis of the starting material (coal fines and the microalgae) as well the agglomerates then followed. According to research, wet microalgae biomass has the potential of acting as a hydrogen donor. By preparing the agglomerates, the rationale was to promote hydrogen supply from the micro algal biomass that has high hydrogen content to the coal with lower hydrogen content. The resulting product was then expected to have fairly higher hydrogen content. However, this was not observed or evident from the elemental analysis results. The results (elemental composition) showed no difference between the agglomerates and the coal. Based on the observed ultimate analysis results, liquefaction experiments were conducted to determine whether hydrogen transfer and the expected synergistic effect between micro algal biomass and coal would occur. The crude oil product was recovered and simulated distillation technique was used for the characterization of the crude oil product. The results we in agreement that higher yields can be achieved during co-liquefaction as compared to the individual liquefaction. A possible synergistic effect that was investigated in this research existed. Liquefaction results provided evidence of higher yields recovery from the agglomerates compared to those of coal fines and microalgae biomass. Although there was higher recovery on the agglomerates, there appears to be a downward trend (decrease) in product recovery with higher loadings of micro algal biomass on to the coal. This means that higher loading of micro algal biomass tend to suppress liquefaction of coal, thus resulting in lower product recovery. While lower loadings tend to effectively facilitate the liquefaction of coal, thus proving that the proposed synergistic effect between the two does exist. Overall product recovery (yields) of the agglomerates is higher compared to the individual recovery of coal fines and microalgae biomass. This was followed by mass balancing to determine the overall conversion. Higher conversions were achieved on the agglomerates compared to coal. This could mean that microalgae have the potential to facilitate the liquefaction of coal and improve its conversion. The observed trend results in improved conversion as well as higher oil yields (simulated distillation results). Overall, the mass balancing provided insightful information regarding the coal-microalgae interaction based on the conversion, and this further corresponds or supports the simulated distillation results. This research paper provides evidence of the synergistic effect that exists between micro algal biomass and coal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Detriments associated with substance abuse among out - of - school youth in Ntselamanzi, village, Alice Town
- Authors: Chatikobo, Nyasha
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Substance abuse--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Drug abuse--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Youth--Substance use--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19442 , vital:43087
- Description: The main aim of the study was to investigate the detriments associated with substance abuse among the out- of- school youth of Ntselamanzi Village in Alice. This study intended to achieve the following objectives. (i) to establish the causes of increased indulgence in substance abuse in Ntselamanzi village, Eastern Cape. (ii) to identify the various kinds of drugs abused by the society of Ntselamanzi (iii) to identify the consequences of substance abuse to the lives of the out-of-school youth. (iv) to suggest the strategies that can be used to reduce substance abuse in order to enhance the youth‟s socio-economic growth and societal bliss. Using the quantitative method ninety-eight questionnaires were administered to the out-of-school youth in Ntselamanzi village and eighty questionnaires were returned fully answered. The major findings of the study outlined that dominating factors of substance abuse in Ntselamanzi village were family drug use, increased drug accessibility, lack of recreation and peer influence. As a result drug abuse among the out of school youth has indicated that the youth end up dropping out of school, unemployed, facing health complications and committing anti-social activities in the village which causing family conflicts and rifts in the community. These all affected the out-of-school youths‟ well-being, academic future and their quality of life was lowered due to all related issues with drug abuse. It can be concluded that drug use among rural outof-school youth is detrimental to the out-of-school youths, their families destroyed and their community crippled from the anti-social activities that take place. The future of the youths‟ education is hampered; the quality of persons in the community and families is lowered. Having unproductive out-of-school youth as a result of drug abuse is not good for the development of the village and all the persons therein. , Thesis (M Soc Sc) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chatikobo, Nyasha
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Substance abuse--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Drug abuse--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Youth--Substance use--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19442 , vital:43087
- Description: The main aim of the study was to investigate the detriments associated with substance abuse among the out- of- school youth of Ntselamanzi Village in Alice. This study intended to achieve the following objectives. (i) to establish the causes of increased indulgence in substance abuse in Ntselamanzi village, Eastern Cape. (ii) to identify the various kinds of drugs abused by the society of Ntselamanzi (iii) to identify the consequences of substance abuse to the lives of the out-of-school youth. (iv) to suggest the strategies that can be used to reduce substance abuse in order to enhance the youth‟s socio-economic growth and societal bliss. Using the quantitative method ninety-eight questionnaires were administered to the out-of-school youth in Ntselamanzi village and eighty questionnaires were returned fully answered. The major findings of the study outlined that dominating factors of substance abuse in Ntselamanzi village were family drug use, increased drug accessibility, lack of recreation and peer influence. As a result drug abuse among the out of school youth has indicated that the youth end up dropping out of school, unemployed, facing health complications and committing anti-social activities in the village which causing family conflicts and rifts in the community. These all affected the out-of-school youths‟ well-being, academic future and their quality of life was lowered due to all related issues with drug abuse. It can be concluded that drug use among rural outof-school youth is detrimental to the out-of-school youths, their families destroyed and their community crippled from the anti-social activities that take place. The future of the youths‟ education is hampered; the quality of persons in the community and families is lowered. Having unproductive out-of-school youth as a result of drug abuse is not good for the development of the village and all the persons therein. , Thesis (M Soc Sc) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Corrole–BODIPY conjugates: enhancing the fluorescence and phosphorescence of the corrole complex via efficient through bond energy transfer
- Chen, Wei, Zhang, Jianfeng, Mack, John, Kubheka, Gugu Patience, Nyokong, Tebello, Shen, Zhen, Wei Chen
- Authors: Chen, Wei , Zhang, Jianfeng , Mack, John , Kubheka, Gugu Patience , Nyokong, Tebello , Shen, Zhen , Wei Chen
- Date: 2015-06-08
- Subjects: RSC Advances (2015), 5, 50962-50967, doi:10.1039/C5RA07250F
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:7268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020277
- Description: New corrole–BODIPY conjugates have been synthesized in high yield under mild conditions. Upon excitation at the absorption maximum of the BODIPY antenna chromophore, the fluorescence intensity of the free base corrole–BODIPY conjugate increases by ca. 300%, and significant phosphorescence intensity is observed for the iridium(III) complex of the conjugate, while almost no phosphorescence is observed for the parent iridium(III) corrole, due to through-bond energy transfer from the BODIPY antenna-chromophore to the corrole core. , Original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c5ra07250f , Arbortext Advanced Print Publisher 9.1.510/W Unicode , Acrobat Distiller 8.1.0 (Windows); modified using iText� 5.3.3 �2000-2012 1T3XT BVBA (AGPL-version)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chen, Wei , Zhang, Jianfeng , Mack, John , Kubheka, Gugu Patience , Nyokong, Tebello , Shen, Zhen , Wei Chen
- Date: 2015-06-08
- Subjects: RSC Advances (2015), 5, 50962-50967, doi:10.1039/C5RA07250F
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:7268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020277
- Description: New corrole–BODIPY conjugates have been synthesized in high yield under mild conditions. Upon excitation at the absorption maximum of the BODIPY antenna chromophore, the fluorescence intensity of the free base corrole–BODIPY conjugate increases by ca. 300%, and significant phosphorescence intensity is observed for the iridium(III) complex of the conjugate, while almost no phosphorescence is observed for the parent iridium(III) corrole, due to through-bond energy transfer from the BODIPY antenna-chromophore to the corrole core. , Original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c5ra07250f , Arbortext Advanced Print Publisher 9.1.510/W Unicode , Acrobat Distiller 8.1.0 (Windows); modified using iText� 5.3.3 �2000-2012 1T3XT BVBA (AGPL-version)
- Full Text:
Sedimentological and geochemical investigations on borehole cores of the Lower Ecca Group black shales, for their gas potential : Karoo basin, South Africa
- Authors: Chere, Naledi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sediments (Geology) -- South Africa , Gas reservoirs -- South Africa , Natural gas reserves -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10679 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021201
- Description: In the recent years, the shale gas discourse has become central to discussions about future energy supply in South Africa. In particular, the Permian black shales of the Lower Ecca Group formations in the Karoo Basin are considered potential source rocks for shale gas. The research presented in this thesis advances the understanding of the shale gas potential of mainly the Prince Albert, Whitehill and Tierberg/Collingham Formations. These shale sequences were sampled from eight deep boreholes spread across the main Karoo Basin and geochemically analysed at the GFZ - Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, Germany. Three key questions guided the study, these are: (i) what is the lithology of the sequence; (ii) where in the basin do the shale sequences attain maximum thickness at optimum depth i.e. beneath 1000-1500m; and (iii) and their shale characteristics. To evaluate these, borehole core logging, petrology and organic geochemistry were used extensively. Petrology involved the use of thin section, scanned electron and transmission electron microscopy for mineralogy as well as the identification of sedimentary features, organic matter and nano-scale porosity. These were coupled with standard organic geochemistry techniques such as Rock Eval. analysis, open pyrolysis gas chromatography and thermovaporisation to quantify the free gas, total organic carbon (TOC), present-day gas generative potential and kerogen type. The results show that the Whitehill Formation, away from the CFB and not intruded by dolerite, has the most potential for shale gas. Microscopic studies of this pyritic black shale reveal the occurrence of porous amorphous matter, indicating thermal maturity within the gas generation zone (i.e. > 1.1 percent Ro, 120ºC). The TOC content is consistently high within the Whitehill (exceeding industry requirement of 2 percent), attaining maximum of 7.3 percent. The highest yields of free and desorbed gas, especially methane, were emitted within this formation (S1 and nC1 peaks); mostly within its dolomitic units. In addition, dissolution porosity within dolomite units of the Whitehill Formation was identified as the predominant type of porosity. Thus, it is deduced that the dolomitic units of Whitehill Formation potentially contain the greatest volumes of free gas. HI values attain maximum of 25 mg HC/g TOC, whereas the OI values 26 mg CO2/g TOC. Such low HI and OI values are typically attributed to the dominance of Type IV kerogen, and consistent with overmaturity. Open pyrolysis (GC) show the main the chemical compound of the organic matter to be m-p-xylene, consistent with a mix of Type III, Type I/II and Type IV kerogen. Lithologically, the Whitehill Formation is composed of ~ 35 quartz, 13 percent feldspar, 26 percent illite and ~ 23 percent dolomite with variable amounts of pyrite. The dominance of quartz is directly proportional to the brittleness of the rock. Thus it can be deduced that the Whitehill Formation is relatively brittle and therefore fraccable. Burial trends indicate increasing depth (from ground level) to the top of the Whitehill Formation towards the south and south-eastern portion of the basin. It is in the southern region where thicknesses of this black shale exceeding 50m occur at depths more than 1500m; 1000m beneath fresh water aquifers. It therefore concluded that Whitehill Formation in the southern portion of Karoo Basin, but away from the thermo-tectonic overprint of the Cape Orogeny, is the most probable shale gas reservoir in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chere, Naledi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sediments (Geology) -- South Africa , Gas reservoirs -- South Africa , Natural gas reserves -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10679 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021201
- Description: In the recent years, the shale gas discourse has become central to discussions about future energy supply in South Africa. In particular, the Permian black shales of the Lower Ecca Group formations in the Karoo Basin are considered potential source rocks for shale gas. The research presented in this thesis advances the understanding of the shale gas potential of mainly the Prince Albert, Whitehill and Tierberg/Collingham Formations. These shale sequences were sampled from eight deep boreholes spread across the main Karoo Basin and geochemically analysed at the GFZ - Helmholtz Centre Potsdam, Germany. Three key questions guided the study, these are: (i) what is the lithology of the sequence; (ii) where in the basin do the shale sequences attain maximum thickness at optimum depth i.e. beneath 1000-1500m; and (iii) and their shale characteristics. To evaluate these, borehole core logging, petrology and organic geochemistry were used extensively. Petrology involved the use of thin section, scanned electron and transmission electron microscopy for mineralogy as well as the identification of sedimentary features, organic matter and nano-scale porosity. These were coupled with standard organic geochemistry techniques such as Rock Eval. analysis, open pyrolysis gas chromatography and thermovaporisation to quantify the free gas, total organic carbon (TOC), present-day gas generative potential and kerogen type. The results show that the Whitehill Formation, away from the CFB and not intruded by dolerite, has the most potential for shale gas. Microscopic studies of this pyritic black shale reveal the occurrence of porous amorphous matter, indicating thermal maturity within the gas generation zone (i.e. > 1.1 percent Ro, 120ºC). The TOC content is consistently high within the Whitehill (exceeding industry requirement of 2 percent), attaining maximum of 7.3 percent. The highest yields of free and desorbed gas, especially methane, were emitted within this formation (S1 and nC1 peaks); mostly within its dolomitic units. In addition, dissolution porosity within dolomite units of the Whitehill Formation was identified as the predominant type of porosity. Thus, it is deduced that the dolomitic units of Whitehill Formation potentially contain the greatest volumes of free gas. HI values attain maximum of 25 mg HC/g TOC, whereas the OI values 26 mg CO2/g TOC. Such low HI and OI values are typically attributed to the dominance of Type IV kerogen, and consistent with overmaturity. Open pyrolysis (GC) show the main the chemical compound of the organic matter to be m-p-xylene, consistent with a mix of Type III, Type I/II and Type IV kerogen. Lithologically, the Whitehill Formation is composed of ~ 35 quartz, 13 percent feldspar, 26 percent illite and ~ 23 percent dolomite with variable amounts of pyrite. The dominance of quartz is directly proportional to the brittleness of the rock. Thus it can be deduced that the Whitehill Formation is relatively brittle and therefore fraccable. Burial trends indicate increasing depth (from ground level) to the top of the Whitehill Formation towards the south and south-eastern portion of the basin. It is in the southern region where thicknesses of this black shale exceeding 50m occur at depths more than 1500m; 1000m beneath fresh water aquifers. It therefore concluded that Whitehill Formation in the southern portion of Karoo Basin, but away from the thermo-tectonic overprint of the Cape Orogeny, is the most probable shale gas reservoir in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Engaging within zones of proximal development on Facebook : the case of using Facebook to support learning and mentoring on a NQF Level 5 environmental education, training and development practices learnership
- Authors: Chetty, Preven
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social media -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Internet in education , Online social networks , Organizational learning , Employees -- Training of , Group work in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017335
- Description: This study focuses on two roll-outs of a, year-long National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 5, environmental education learnership in South Africa and attempts at enhancing collaborative learning at workplaces using a familiar social networking site called Facebook. This study uses the Facebook group sites created for the workplace course component of the course as one of the means of data collection. Additional interviews and focus groups with learners and administrators on both Environmental Education Training and Development Practices (EETDP) courses also informed the study. The study is located within the context of the rise of the information age, its effects on socio-ecological landscape at large and ways of using social networking sites in order to facilitate scaffolding and meaning making within zones of proximal development for environmental education learnerships. It also looks at the model of apprenticeship and workplace based learning as it is broadly located at the nexus of the SAQA-led academic inquiry into workplace based learning and professional development. It was found that the use of Facebook on the EETDP learnership allowed for collaborative learning to take place between peer to peer interactions as well as between tutors and learners. It was also noted that scaffolding processes requires both technical assistance and strong instructional input from course tutors. One of the most important findings in terms of collaborative learning and engaging within the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) was that learners were able to communicate more effectively and freely with both fellow learners and tutors on course after participating on the Facebook group sites. The study offers recommendations on how a social networking platform like Facebook can be utilised effectively for environmental education. The study recommends that scaffolding of workplace based tasks and concepts needs to be better integrated with the course and in both online and offline interactions between learners. It also illustrates how social networking sites can become powerful tools for creating meaning making when combined with course work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chetty, Preven
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social media -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Internet in education , Online social networks , Organizational learning , Employees -- Training of , Group work in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017335
- Description: This study focuses on two roll-outs of a, year-long National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 5, environmental education learnership in South Africa and attempts at enhancing collaborative learning at workplaces using a familiar social networking site called Facebook. This study uses the Facebook group sites created for the workplace course component of the course as one of the means of data collection. Additional interviews and focus groups with learners and administrators on both Environmental Education Training and Development Practices (EETDP) courses also informed the study. The study is located within the context of the rise of the information age, its effects on socio-ecological landscape at large and ways of using social networking sites in order to facilitate scaffolding and meaning making within zones of proximal development for environmental education learnerships. It also looks at the model of apprenticeship and workplace based learning as it is broadly located at the nexus of the SAQA-led academic inquiry into workplace based learning and professional development. It was found that the use of Facebook on the EETDP learnership allowed for collaborative learning to take place between peer to peer interactions as well as between tutors and learners. It was also noted that scaffolding processes requires both technical assistance and strong instructional input from course tutors. One of the most important findings in terms of collaborative learning and engaging within the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) was that learners were able to communicate more effectively and freely with both fellow learners and tutors on course after participating on the Facebook group sites. The study offers recommendations on how a social networking platform like Facebook can be utilised effectively for environmental education. The study recommends that scaffolding of workplace based tasks and concepts needs to be better integrated with the course and in both online and offline interactions between learners. It also illustrates how social networking sites can become powerful tools for creating meaning making when combined with course work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An empirical study on staff turnover and retention within Eskom : Eastern Cape Operating Unit
- Authors: Chibba, Rajesh Chagan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Career development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017514
- Description: This research paper is broken up into three sections, namely an evaluation report, a literature review and a description of the research methodology. The evaluation report section is an assessment of the factors that could contribute to staff leaving the organisation and why staff would choose to remain with the organisation. The Distribution Division of Eskom is divided into nine separate Operating Units (OU's), in line with the nine Provinces. According to an Eskom Human Resource Manager (Mjali, 2013), as at March 2012 there were 2231 employees in the Easter Cape Operating Unit, while the staff turnover for the same period was 4.53%. Of the 101 staff that had resigned for the period 01 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, there were 27 transfers, 26 resignations and 30 retirements. The balance of 18 staff that left was due to dismissals and deaths. While the statistics suggest a healthy level of staff turnover at present, given the current pressures that Eskom employees are under, it is important to investigate their future intentions and to see what Eskom can do to continue to retain their services. The literature relating to staff turnover and retention was examined to determine the meaning of the terms retention and turnover and to review the relevant turnover topics that were emerging from the exit interview data. The research conducted was quantitative in nature, and a questionnaire was distributed to all managerial staff within the Eastern Cape Operating Unit of Eskom. The questionnaire was sent electronically to the participants via email with the link to the questionnaire. Participants were requested to respond on questions relating to factors on turnover and retention, and the responses were used to assess employee's intention to either remain with the organisation or to leave. The feedback received was analysed with the use of data analysis in Microsoft Excel (2010). The results of the research showed that there were two distinct themes related to employees' intention to remain with the organisation, namely job satisfaction and career development. On the other end of the scale, themes which would cause staff to want to leave the organisation were the performance management system of the organisation, not being listened to (i.e. to the ideas and views of staff) and leadership (i.e. the way the organisation was being led). Recommendations are made to management. The study also recommends future research that can be done to get greater insight into factors relating to staff turnover and retention. A detailed review of the literature is included in Section two of the report. Only essential components of the literature are included in Section one of report. Section three of the report provided a detailed description of the research design and the research procedure that was followed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chibba, Rajesh Chagan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Career development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017514
- Description: This research paper is broken up into three sections, namely an evaluation report, a literature review and a description of the research methodology. The evaluation report section is an assessment of the factors that could contribute to staff leaving the organisation and why staff would choose to remain with the organisation. The Distribution Division of Eskom is divided into nine separate Operating Units (OU's), in line with the nine Provinces. According to an Eskom Human Resource Manager (Mjali, 2013), as at March 2012 there were 2231 employees in the Easter Cape Operating Unit, while the staff turnover for the same period was 4.53%. Of the 101 staff that had resigned for the period 01 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, there were 27 transfers, 26 resignations and 30 retirements. The balance of 18 staff that left was due to dismissals and deaths. While the statistics suggest a healthy level of staff turnover at present, given the current pressures that Eskom employees are under, it is important to investigate their future intentions and to see what Eskom can do to continue to retain their services. The literature relating to staff turnover and retention was examined to determine the meaning of the terms retention and turnover and to review the relevant turnover topics that were emerging from the exit interview data. The research conducted was quantitative in nature, and a questionnaire was distributed to all managerial staff within the Eastern Cape Operating Unit of Eskom. The questionnaire was sent electronically to the participants via email with the link to the questionnaire. Participants were requested to respond on questions relating to factors on turnover and retention, and the responses were used to assess employee's intention to either remain with the organisation or to leave. The feedback received was analysed with the use of data analysis in Microsoft Excel (2010). The results of the research showed that there were two distinct themes related to employees' intention to remain with the organisation, namely job satisfaction and career development. On the other end of the scale, themes which would cause staff to want to leave the organisation were the performance management system of the organisation, not being listened to (i.e. to the ideas and views of staff) and leadership (i.e. the way the organisation was being led). Recommendations are made to management. The study also recommends future research that can be done to get greater insight into factors relating to staff turnover and retention. A detailed review of the literature is included in Section two of the report. Only essential components of the literature are included in Section one of report. Section three of the report provided a detailed description of the research design and the research procedure that was followed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The regulation of agricultural subsidies in the World Trade Organization framework : a developing country perspective
- Authors: Chigavazira, Farai
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Foreign trade regulation -- Developing countries Agricultural laws and legislation -- Developing countries Tariff on farm produce -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1874 , vital:27569
- Description: The Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) was adopted to eliminate the illegitimate use of tradedistorting agricultural subsidies and thereby reduce and avoid the negative effects subsidies have on global agricultural trade. However, the AoA has been fashioned in a way that is enabling developed countries to continue high levels of protectionism through subsidization, whilst many developing countries are facing severe and often damaging competition from imports artificially cheapened through subsidies. The regulation of subsidies in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has been a highly sensitive issue. This is mainly due to the fear of compromising food security especially by developed countries. Developing countries have suffered negatively from the subsidy programmes of developed countries who continue to subsidize their agricultural sector. This position of the developing countries in the global trade system which has been described as weak, has drawn criticism that the WTO as it currently operates does not protect the interests of the weak developing nations, but rather strengthens the interests of the strong developed nations. The green box provisions which are specifically designed to regulate payments that are considered trade neutral or minimally trade distorting has grossly been manipulated by developed countries at the mercy of the AoA. Developed countries continue to provide trade distorting subsidies under the guise of green box support. This is defeating the aims and objectives of the AoA. The study examines the regulation of WTO agricultural subsidies from the developing countries’ belvedere. It looks at the problems WTO member states face with trade distorting subsidies, but focuses more on the impact these have on developing states. It scrutinizes the AoA’s provisions regulating subsidies with a view to identify any loopholes or shortcomings which undermine the interests and aspirations of developing countries. This is behind the background that some of the provisions of the AoA are lenient towards the needs of developed countries at the expense of developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chigavazira, Farai
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Foreign trade regulation -- Developing countries Agricultural laws and legislation -- Developing countries Tariff on farm produce -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1874 , vital:27569
- Description: The Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) was adopted to eliminate the illegitimate use of tradedistorting agricultural subsidies and thereby reduce and avoid the negative effects subsidies have on global agricultural trade. However, the AoA has been fashioned in a way that is enabling developed countries to continue high levels of protectionism through subsidization, whilst many developing countries are facing severe and often damaging competition from imports artificially cheapened through subsidies. The regulation of subsidies in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has been a highly sensitive issue. This is mainly due to the fear of compromising food security especially by developed countries. Developing countries have suffered negatively from the subsidy programmes of developed countries who continue to subsidize their agricultural sector. This position of the developing countries in the global trade system which has been described as weak, has drawn criticism that the WTO as it currently operates does not protect the interests of the weak developing nations, but rather strengthens the interests of the strong developed nations. The green box provisions which are specifically designed to regulate payments that are considered trade neutral or minimally trade distorting has grossly been manipulated by developed countries at the mercy of the AoA. Developed countries continue to provide trade distorting subsidies under the guise of green box support. This is defeating the aims and objectives of the AoA. The study examines the regulation of WTO agricultural subsidies from the developing countries’ belvedere. It looks at the problems WTO member states face with trade distorting subsidies, but focuses more on the impact these have on developing states. It scrutinizes the AoA’s provisions regulating subsidies with a view to identify any loopholes or shortcomings which undermine the interests and aspirations of developing countries. This is behind the background that some of the provisions of the AoA are lenient towards the needs of developed countries at the expense of developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation into employment-readiness perceptions of University of Fort Hare students
- Chigbu, Bianca Ifeoma https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4029-9580
- Authors: Chigbu, Bianca Ifeoma https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4029-9580
- Date: 2015-02
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Graduate work , College graduates -- Employment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25709 , vital:64472
- Description: The aim of this study is to establish the employment-readiness perception of prospective University of Fort Hare Alice campus graduates. To do this, the study determined the capability of these prospective graduates to face the demands of the labor market. In addition, the study also wanted inter alia to find out whether there exist a relationship between prospective graduates perceived level of skills and their readiness to engage in the work environment. Astin’s Input-Environment-Outcome model of student development, which posits that students’ academic development in universities is affected by their own inputs as learners in addition to the institutional environment, has been utilized as the theoretical framework for this study. Hence a number of hypothesis informed by Astin’s model about whether there exist a relationship between perceived output, skills and readiness of prospective graduates for the workplace, on the one hand, and university education/training, on the other, were derived. To test these hypotheses the study utilized a quantitative research approach anchored around a survey design. In fact ample studies, which have investigated the issues of employability skills and prospective graduates’ readiness for work, have adopted this type of research design with a questionnaire as a preferred research instrument. After collecting data through the use of a mainly Likert scale based survey questionnaire, the findings of the study indicated inter alia that the university environment has a direct influence on the input of students to their study and skills acquisition in addition to the fact that faculty influence is directly correlated to students’ output, skills and readiness for employment. Hence the conclusion that for any tertiary institution like the University of Fort Hare to function effectively or optimally, the institutional environment, faculty influence and student input have to satisfy the best assessment criteria at the exit level, such that an output of quality prospective graduates imbued with all employment readiness characteristics can be guaranteed. Self-driven individuals with willingness to involve themselves in lifelong learning, who are capable of self-improvement and of taking advantages of innovative opportunities, are what the country’s economy need. These findings are in agreement with Astin’s model, which proposes that learning development is an interacting system of student input, institutional settings, and the students’ output. Results and conclusions of a significant number of other empirical studies concur with the results of this study. Furthermore the findings of the current study contribute to the graduate work readiness literature in a number of ways. For instance, the work process in modern organizations has been greatly transformed and as such that only high levels of skills, abilities and talented graduates are qualified to fit in such a labor market. The changing demands of the education competitive market have generated a belief that the educational sector will react in ways that are innovative with the aim of both the learning needs and the career objectives for its learners to be reached. Hence it is proposed that tertiary institutions in South Africa make it mandatory for learners to at least have three weeks work placement as one of their requirement for graduation. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-02
- Authors: Chigbu, Bianca Ifeoma https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4029-9580
- Date: 2015-02
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Graduate work , College graduates -- Employment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25709 , vital:64472
- Description: The aim of this study is to establish the employment-readiness perception of prospective University of Fort Hare Alice campus graduates. To do this, the study determined the capability of these prospective graduates to face the demands of the labor market. In addition, the study also wanted inter alia to find out whether there exist a relationship between prospective graduates perceived level of skills and their readiness to engage in the work environment. Astin’s Input-Environment-Outcome model of student development, which posits that students’ academic development in universities is affected by their own inputs as learners in addition to the institutional environment, has been utilized as the theoretical framework for this study. Hence a number of hypothesis informed by Astin’s model about whether there exist a relationship between perceived output, skills and readiness of prospective graduates for the workplace, on the one hand, and university education/training, on the other, were derived. To test these hypotheses the study utilized a quantitative research approach anchored around a survey design. In fact ample studies, which have investigated the issues of employability skills and prospective graduates’ readiness for work, have adopted this type of research design with a questionnaire as a preferred research instrument. After collecting data through the use of a mainly Likert scale based survey questionnaire, the findings of the study indicated inter alia that the university environment has a direct influence on the input of students to their study and skills acquisition in addition to the fact that faculty influence is directly correlated to students’ output, skills and readiness for employment. Hence the conclusion that for any tertiary institution like the University of Fort Hare to function effectively or optimally, the institutional environment, faculty influence and student input have to satisfy the best assessment criteria at the exit level, such that an output of quality prospective graduates imbued with all employment readiness characteristics can be guaranteed. Self-driven individuals with willingness to involve themselves in lifelong learning, who are capable of self-improvement and of taking advantages of innovative opportunities, are what the country’s economy need. These findings are in agreement with Astin’s model, which proposes that learning development is an interacting system of student input, institutional settings, and the students’ output. Results and conclusions of a significant number of other empirical studies concur with the results of this study. Furthermore the findings of the current study contribute to the graduate work readiness literature in a number of ways. For instance, the work process in modern organizations has been greatly transformed and as such that only high levels of skills, abilities and talented graduates are qualified to fit in such a labor market. The changing demands of the education competitive market have generated a belief that the educational sector will react in ways that are innovative with the aim of both the learning needs and the career objectives for its learners to be reached. Hence it is proposed that tertiary institutions in South Africa make it mandatory for learners to at least have three weeks work placement as one of their requirement for graduation. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-02
Understanding the poverty-reducing livelihoods of child support grant caregivers in Riebeeck East, South Africa
- Authors: Chikukwa, Vimbainashe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Archer, Margaret Scotford -- Political and social views , Child caregivers -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Grants-in-aid -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Poverty -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Critical realism , South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018196
- Description: In 1994, racial domination in the form of apartheid ended in South Africa and the first postapartheid government was elected through a non-racial and democratic franchise. The new government inherited an entrenched system of racial inequality as well as widespread poverty amongst the formerly oppressed population, and it sought to address these challenges through policies of redistribution based on a new progressive constitution which emphasised the realisation of socio-economic rights. At the same time, and despite its redistributive measures, the post-apartheid government has pursued a macro-economic strategy with pronounced neoliberal dimensions. One of its critical redistributive measures focuses on social assistance to poor blacks, and this has entailed the construction and expansion of a massive social grant system including the child support grant which is received by millions of black South Africans on a monthly basis. The objective of this thesis is to examine and understand the livelihoods of child support grant recipients (or caregivers) in the context of conditions of extreme vulnerability marked by poverty. It does so by focusing on the small town of Riebeek East located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Though undoubtedly child support grant caregivers are victims of poverty, the thesis demonstrates that they are not without agency. They exist in structural conditions of vulnerability and poverty, but they nevertheless seek to manoeuvre and negotiate their way in and through their conditions of existence. This does not necessarily alleviate their poverty in any significant manner but it does show evidence of reflexivity, decision-making and responsibility in the pursuit of livelihood practices and outcomes. In making this argument, I draw upon the mega-theory of Margaret Archer (specifically, her morphogenetic approach) and the more middle-level perspective of the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. Beyond contributing to the prevailing academic literature on the child support grant in South Africa, this thesis also hopefully makes a small contribution to controversies about structure and agency within sociology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chikukwa, Vimbainashe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Archer, Margaret Scotford -- Political and social views , Child caregivers -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Grants-in-aid -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Poverty -- South Africa -- Riebeek-Oos , Critical realism , South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018196
- Description: In 1994, racial domination in the form of apartheid ended in South Africa and the first postapartheid government was elected through a non-racial and democratic franchise. The new government inherited an entrenched system of racial inequality as well as widespread poverty amongst the formerly oppressed population, and it sought to address these challenges through policies of redistribution based on a new progressive constitution which emphasised the realisation of socio-economic rights. At the same time, and despite its redistributive measures, the post-apartheid government has pursued a macro-economic strategy with pronounced neoliberal dimensions. One of its critical redistributive measures focuses on social assistance to poor blacks, and this has entailed the construction and expansion of a massive social grant system including the child support grant which is received by millions of black South Africans on a monthly basis. The objective of this thesis is to examine and understand the livelihoods of child support grant recipients (or caregivers) in the context of conditions of extreme vulnerability marked by poverty. It does so by focusing on the small town of Riebeek East located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Though undoubtedly child support grant caregivers are victims of poverty, the thesis demonstrates that they are not without agency. They exist in structural conditions of vulnerability and poverty, but they nevertheless seek to manoeuvre and negotiate their way in and through their conditions of existence. This does not necessarily alleviate their poverty in any significant manner but it does show evidence of reflexivity, decision-making and responsibility in the pursuit of livelihood practices and outcomes. In making this argument, I draw upon the mega-theory of Margaret Archer (specifically, her morphogenetic approach) and the more middle-level perspective of the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. Beyond contributing to the prevailing academic literature on the child support grant in South Africa, this thesis also hopefully makes a small contribution to controversies about structure and agency within sociology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The design of a new opera house for central, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Chilton, Marc John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Theaters -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Centers for the performing arts -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Theater architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15356 , vital:28224
- Description: Urban decentralization and inner city decay is a ubiquitous phenomenon of social and economic circumstance. The rise of sub-urban sprawl around new centres has encouraged urban degeneration and produced unsustainable cities, particularly in South Africa. Consequently, the loss of cultural assets in decaying historic centres, specifi cally in Port Elizabeth, reveals issues pertinent to loss of place and heritage. In combatting urban degeneration, the utilization of culture and the arts has proven to be a powerful rejuvenation strategy. The vision of the Mandela Bay Development Agency, and similar successful global precedents, suggest that a cultural precinct could effectively tackle urban decay in the historic core. This premise guides the proposal.The principal aim of this treatise is the design of a new Opera House acting as a catalyst for the proposed cultural district, based on the inner-city rejuvenation of Central. This aim is achieved by several objectives, which are explored in an effort to unveil potential and appropriate design responses: An investigation of the Opera House typology, which uncovers its dignity, vitality and signifi cance within past and present cities; An exploration of context, which reveals the opportunities to transform identity and urban cultural practise; Research into technical, spatial and physical demands of the program provide depth and root the design responses in reality. As a result, the Opera House sits as a gateway building into the precinct, as well as a cultural and physical landmark within the city. A duality of expression presents both a contrast and self-similarity in the historic context, simultaneously rooting the building in place while conveying a unique character.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chilton, Marc John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Theaters -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Centers for the performing arts -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Theater architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15356 , vital:28224
- Description: Urban decentralization and inner city decay is a ubiquitous phenomenon of social and economic circumstance. The rise of sub-urban sprawl around new centres has encouraged urban degeneration and produced unsustainable cities, particularly in South Africa. Consequently, the loss of cultural assets in decaying historic centres, specifi cally in Port Elizabeth, reveals issues pertinent to loss of place and heritage. In combatting urban degeneration, the utilization of culture and the arts has proven to be a powerful rejuvenation strategy. The vision of the Mandela Bay Development Agency, and similar successful global precedents, suggest that a cultural precinct could effectively tackle urban decay in the historic core. This premise guides the proposal.The principal aim of this treatise is the design of a new Opera House acting as a catalyst for the proposed cultural district, based on the inner-city rejuvenation of Central. This aim is achieved by several objectives, which are explored in an effort to unveil potential and appropriate design responses: An investigation of the Opera House typology, which uncovers its dignity, vitality and signifi cance within past and present cities; An exploration of context, which reveals the opportunities to transform identity and urban cultural practise; Research into technical, spatial and physical demands of the program provide depth and root the design responses in reality. As a result, the Opera House sits as a gateway building into the precinct, as well as a cultural and physical landmark within the city. A duality of expression presents both a contrast and self-similarity in the historic context, simultaneously rooting the building in place while conveying a unique character.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Witchcraft beliefs and fears in Malawi: an ethical-theological inquiry within the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Blantyre Synod
- Authors: Chimenya, Austin Elias
- Date: 2015-06
- Subjects: Witchcraft -- Malawi , Presbyterian Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25633 , vital:64345
- Description: Witchcraft beliefs and fear has been a problem for many years in many societies throughout the world. This problem mainly affect old, women and children as they are mostly accused of witchcraft practice in many societies. Witchcraft beliefs and fear is a major problem in Africa as compared to Europe and America. Although Malawi boasts of over 75% of Christians, but witchcraft beliefs and fear still poses a big challenge. There are so many factors that contribute to witchcraft beliefs and fear in Malawi. Some of the major factors include; cultural factors, legal factors, religious factors, social factors and economic factors. This study aimed at establishing a theological and ethical approach to witchcraft beliefs and fear within the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre Synod in Malawi. The study established that old people particularly women and the children largely are the victims of witchcraft accusations in Malawi. This revealed that these victimised people needs security support, spiritual support, economic support, legal support as well as social support. The study also established that those that were victimised due to witchcraft accusations are stigmatized by the society and the church as well. As a result of this, there has been unnecessary loss of lives and property. Further, those that are stigmatized have resorted to stop going to church. The problem of witchcraft beliefs and fear has influenced other people to be involved mob justice against the suspected witches. Although the society has used other means to stop witchcraft beliefs and fear but it has failed to end the problem. The church has also used disciplining those suspected to be practising witchcraft among other ways but no solution came out of the problem. As a result, gossip, hatred, loss of trust, un-forgiveness spirit continued to prevail. The data for this research came up with major themes as; cultural, social, religious, legal and economic problems. There was interviews from fifty individuals who were full members of CCAP Blantyre Synod in Malawi from the Presbyteries of Mulanje and Blantyre City with the purpose of getting views from rural and urban areas within the church. In order to minimise or end the problem of witchcraft beliefs and fear, the study came up with other ways as follows: Sound Biblical teaching is needed, Deliverance prayers should be introduced in the church, Building effective Sunday schools, intensifying counselling, lobbying Malawi Parliament to amend the Witchcraft Act and Provide financial support. , Thesis (M.Th) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-06
- Authors: Chimenya, Austin Elias
- Date: 2015-06
- Subjects: Witchcraft -- Malawi , Presbyterian Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25633 , vital:64345
- Description: Witchcraft beliefs and fear has been a problem for many years in many societies throughout the world. This problem mainly affect old, women and children as they are mostly accused of witchcraft practice in many societies. Witchcraft beliefs and fear is a major problem in Africa as compared to Europe and America. Although Malawi boasts of over 75% of Christians, but witchcraft beliefs and fear still poses a big challenge. There are so many factors that contribute to witchcraft beliefs and fear in Malawi. Some of the major factors include; cultural factors, legal factors, religious factors, social factors and economic factors. This study aimed at establishing a theological and ethical approach to witchcraft beliefs and fear within the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre Synod in Malawi. The study established that old people particularly women and the children largely are the victims of witchcraft accusations in Malawi. This revealed that these victimised people needs security support, spiritual support, economic support, legal support as well as social support. The study also established that those that were victimised due to witchcraft accusations are stigmatized by the society and the church as well. As a result of this, there has been unnecessary loss of lives and property. Further, those that are stigmatized have resorted to stop going to church. The problem of witchcraft beliefs and fear has influenced other people to be involved mob justice against the suspected witches. Although the society has used other means to stop witchcraft beliefs and fear but it has failed to end the problem. The church has also used disciplining those suspected to be practising witchcraft among other ways but no solution came out of the problem. As a result, gossip, hatred, loss of trust, un-forgiveness spirit continued to prevail. The data for this research came up with major themes as; cultural, social, religious, legal and economic problems. There was interviews from fifty individuals who were full members of CCAP Blantyre Synod in Malawi from the Presbyteries of Mulanje and Blantyre City with the purpose of getting views from rural and urban areas within the church. In order to minimise or end the problem of witchcraft beliefs and fear, the study came up with other ways as follows: Sound Biblical teaching is needed, Deliverance prayers should be introduced in the church, Building effective Sunday schools, intensifying counselling, lobbying Malawi Parliament to amend the Witchcraft Act and Provide financial support. , Thesis (M.Th) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-06
Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes as precursors for the synthesis of HDA-capped NiS and PbS nanoparticles
- Authors: Chintso, Thobani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020201
- Description: Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA and some of the Ni(II) complexes and one Pb(II) were further analyzed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Generally all the dithiocarbamate ligands are soluble in water while the complexes were soluble mostly in solvents such as chloroform, toluene, DMSO and DCM. Based on the elemental analysis, the dithiocarbamate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar) compounds. However, the FTIR showed that each of the dithiocarbamate ligands acted as bidentate ligand through two sulfur atoms. The TGA of the most complexes showed one major decomposition step to give respective metal sulfide above 200 oC. In this research project, dithiocarbamate complexes were used as single source precursor for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles. We studied the optical and structural properties of metal sulfide nanoparticles using UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption spectra of the metal sulfide nanoparticles are blue shifted in respect to bulk material and they also showed broad emission. The XRD of the NiS nanoparticles were indexed to the cubic and rhombohedral phase, with crystallite sizes of 15 - 18 nm. The XRD of PbS nanoparticles were indexed to the face centered cubic and cubic rock salts, with the crystallite sizes 12 - 18 nm. The TEM images of the metal sulfide nanoparticles showed particles with spherical and rectangular shapes with crystallite sizes 4 - 35 nm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chintso, Thobani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020201
- Description: Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA and some of the Ni(II) complexes and one Pb(II) were further analyzed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Generally all the dithiocarbamate ligands are soluble in water while the complexes were soluble mostly in solvents such as chloroform, toluene, DMSO and DCM. Based on the elemental analysis, the dithiocarbamate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar) compounds. However, the FTIR showed that each of the dithiocarbamate ligands acted as bidentate ligand through two sulfur atoms. The TGA of the most complexes showed one major decomposition step to give respective metal sulfide above 200 oC. In this research project, dithiocarbamate complexes were used as single source precursor for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles. We studied the optical and structural properties of metal sulfide nanoparticles using UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption spectra of the metal sulfide nanoparticles are blue shifted in respect to bulk material and they also showed broad emission. The XRD of the NiS nanoparticles were indexed to the cubic and rhombohedral phase, with crystallite sizes of 15 - 18 nm. The XRD of PbS nanoparticles were indexed to the face centered cubic and cubic rock salts, with the crystallite sizes 12 - 18 nm. The TEM images of the metal sulfide nanoparticles showed particles with spherical and rectangular shapes with crystallite sizes 4 - 35 nm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Eliciting and combining expert opinion : an overview and comparison of methods
- Authors: Chinyamakobvu, Mutsa Carole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Decision making -- Statistical methods , Expertise , Bayesian statistical decision theory , Statistical decision , Delphi method , Paired comparisons (Statistics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5579 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017827
- Description: Decision makers have long relied on experts to inform their decision making. Expert judgment analysis is a way to elicit and combine the opinions of a group of experts to facilitate decision making. The use of expert judgment is most appropriate when there is a lack of data for obtaining reasonable statistical results. The experts are asked for advice by one or more decision makers who face a specific real decision problem. The decision makers are outside the group of experts and are jointly responsible and accountable for the decision and committed to finding solutions that everyone can live with. The emphasis is on the decision makers learning from the experts. The focus of this thesis is an overview and comparison of the various elicitation and combination methods available. These include the traditional committee method, the Delphi method, the paired comparisons method, the negative exponential model, Cooke’s classical model, the histogram technique, using the Dirichlet distribution in the case of a set of uncertain proportions which must sum to one, and the employment of overfitting. The supra Bayes approach, the determination of weights for the experts, and combining the opinions of experts where each opinion is associated with a confidence level that represents the expert’s conviction of his own judgment are also considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chinyamakobvu, Mutsa Carole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Decision making -- Statistical methods , Expertise , Bayesian statistical decision theory , Statistical decision , Delphi method , Paired comparisons (Statistics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5579 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017827
- Description: Decision makers have long relied on experts to inform their decision making. Expert judgment analysis is a way to elicit and combine the opinions of a group of experts to facilitate decision making. The use of expert judgment is most appropriate when there is a lack of data for obtaining reasonable statistical results. The experts are asked for advice by one or more decision makers who face a specific real decision problem. The decision makers are outside the group of experts and are jointly responsible and accountable for the decision and committed to finding solutions that everyone can live with. The emphasis is on the decision makers learning from the experts. The focus of this thesis is an overview and comparison of the various elicitation and combination methods available. These include the traditional committee method, the Delphi method, the paired comparisons method, the negative exponential model, Cooke’s classical model, the histogram technique, using the Dirichlet distribution in the case of a set of uncertain proportions which must sum to one, and the employment of overfitting. The supra Bayes approach, the determination of weights for the experts, and combining the opinions of experts where each opinion is associated with a confidence level that represents the expert’s conviction of his own judgment are also considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Towards a changing context and performance practice of mbira dzavadzimu music in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chipendo, Claudio
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mbira music -- Zimbabwe Shona (African people) -- Music
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6357 , vital:29588
- Description: Mbira dzavadzimu music and performance practice has been in existence since the pre-colonial era. It played a crucial role in ritual and non-ritual activities of the Shona people of Zimbabwe. However, political, social and global influences as well as technological advancement have resulted in change of context and performance practice. Unfortunately, these have not been recorded for future generations. The major aim of the study is therefore to examine the change of context and performance practice of mbira dzavadzimu in Zimbabwe. This was achieved by reviewing mbira dzavadzimu music and performance practice within the modern setting of dandaro. I looked at change from a theoretical lens of the theory of diffusion, syncretism and mediatisation. The study was in the qualitative form superimposed on some case studies. Unstructured interviews, participant and non-participant observations were the main instruments used to collect data from both traditional and modern mbira performances. Data was also collected from museums, archives, radio and television stations. The study established that the changes in context and performance practice of mbira dzavadzimu in Zimbabwe were to a larger extent due to foreign influences such as colonialism, the coming of missionaries, modernisation, urbanisation, commercialisation, mediatisation, the use of modern technology and institutionalisation. Due to the aforementioned influences, the environmental settings, the change of context from sacred to secular, the relationship with ancestral spirits, musical practices, performance situations and quality of sound, have been modified and adjusted in response to the influences of the globalised world’s ever changing audience and performance space. In short, this has resulted in a shift of mbira performances from its traditional to modern settings, from the village to the city and onto the international scene with a new performer-audience setting. Various innovations were carried out on the instrument and its music as a result of the advent of modern technology. The use of microphones, modern amplification systems, recording studios, radio and television broadcast, audio and video cassettes, CDs, DVD, teaching of the instrument using audio and video instructional models and the use of internet sites in learning how to play mbira dzavadzimu and other instruments have become a reality. It has been evident from the study that urban and rural areas take up change in different ways and that in the former change is more pronounced than in the latter. Urban area communities are more “developed” than their rural counterparts because the former are more exposed to technological influences and the commercialisation of music. The study has also established that Zimbabwean mbira music is a good example of modern transculturality. The instrument and its music have played a major role in breaking down cultural boundaries and bringing the people of the world together for purposes of performing on the instrument. From the findings of this study, I attribute most of the changes to technologisation, for most of the changes that have taken place on mbira dzavadzimu were a result of the highly technologised way of life Zimbabweans now lead.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chipendo, Claudio
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mbira music -- Zimbabwe Shona (African people) -- Music
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6357 , vital:29588
- Description: Mbira dzavadzimu music and performance practice has been in existence since the pre-colonial era. It played a crucial role in ritual and non-ritual activities of the Shona people of Zimbabwe. However, political, social and global influences as well as technological advancement have resulted in change of context and performance practice. Unfortunately, these have not been recorded for future generations. The major aim of the study is therefore to examine the change of context and performance practice of mbira dzavadzimu in Zimbabwe. This was achieved by reviewing mbira dzavadzimu music and performance practice within the modern setting of dandaro. I looked at change from a theoretical lens of the theory of diffusion, syncretism and mediatisation. The study was in the qualitative form superimposed on some case studies. Unstructured interviews, participant and non-participant observations were the main instruments used to collect data from both traditional and modern mbira performances. Data was also collected from museums, archives, radio and television stations. The study established that the changes in context and performance practice of mbira dzavadzimu in Zimbabwe were to a larger extent due to foreign influences such as colonialism, the coming of missionaries, modernisation, urbanisation, commercialisation, mediatisation, the use of modern technology and institutionalisation. Due to the aforementioned influences, the environmental settings, the change of context from sacred to secular, the relationship with ancestral spirits, musical practices, performance situations and quality of sound, have been modified and adjusted in response to the influences of the globalised world’s ever changing audience and performance space. In short, this has resulted in a shift of mbira performances from its traditional to modern settings, from the village to the city and onto the international scene with a new performer-audience setting. Various innovations were carried out on the instrument and its music as a result of the advent of modern technology. The use of microphones, modern amplification systems, recording studios, radio and television broadcast, audio and video cassettes, CDs, DVD, teaching of the instrument using audio and video instructional models and the use of internet sites in learning how to play mbira dzavadzimu and other instruments have become a reality. It has been evident from the study that urban and rural areas take up change in different ways and that in the former change is more pronounced than in the latter. Urban area communities are more “developed” than their rural counterparts because the former are more exposed to technological influences and the commercialisation of music. The study has also established that Zimbabwean mbira music is a good example of modern transculturality. The instrument and its music have played a major role in breaking down cultural boundaries and bringing the people of the world together for purposes of performing on the instrument. From the findings of this study, I attribute most of the changes to technologisation, for most of the changes that have taken place on mbira dzavadzimu were a result of the highly technologised way of life Zimbabweans now lead.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Perceived undersupply of local labour in the presence of unemployment: a case of selected Sundays River Valley citrus farms, 2013
- Authors: Chirara, Malon Tinotenda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Citrus fruit industry -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Labor market -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Work environment -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Agricultural wages -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Agricultural laborers -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Seasonal labor -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Migrant agricultural laborers -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1125 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020367
- Description: While skilled labour shortages are common in many countries, including South Africa, mainly due to a skills mismatch, the undersupply of unskilled labour was less expected, especially in developing countries with high unemployment. The thesis utilises data on perceived worker undersupply on selected citrus farms in the Sundays River Valley (SRV), located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, collected in 2013, to analyse why unemployed residents, surprisingly, do not fill up vacancies on farms. In contrast to other labour markets, farm employment is not restricted by educational levels and as workers reported, with little training the various job tasks and skills required are easy and quick to grasp. At a time the government is trying to find ways of reducing unemployment, and the SRV Municipality (2012:29) reported approximately 42% unemployment, the question arises as to why the relatively low educated residents do not take advantage of the employment opportunities on farms. According to local workers and unemployed residents, the farm job was unattractive largely because of a combination of two factors: perceived relatively low salaries partly caused by the availability of migrant seasonal workers accepting lower remuneration and poor non-wage working conditions. The survey also found that farmers preferred migrant workers because they were more productive compared to their local counterparts who were, reportedly, characterised by high absenteeism and laziness, caused mainly by a reliance on social grants and alcohol abuse. Other reasons given for the unattractiveness of the farm job included the seasonal nature of farm employment, which left workers with no source of income in the offseason, the redundancy associated with farm tasks, perceived poor treatment of workers and lack of information on UIF and Provident funds to farm workers. To address problems associated with the dislike of farm work, seasonality of on-farm employment and the reportedly relatively low income, farm managers, the local municipality and the Labour Department could possibly be involved in creating more communal agricultural projects and help provide local community members to venture into supporting alternative careers within the Hospitality, Ecotourism and Conservation Industries through training programmes. Farm managers may need to consider improving their working relationship with workers in communication and when assigning tasks. Farmers and the local municipality could also consider investing in training programmes for the unemployed residents to equip them with technical skills that can improve their chances of finding jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chirara, Malon Tinotenda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Citrus fruit industry -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Labor market -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Work environment -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Agricultural wages -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Agricultural laborers -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Seasonal labor -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Migrant agricultural laborers -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Sundays River (Eastern Cape)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1125 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020367
- Description: While skilled labour shortages are common in many countries, including South Africa, mainly due to a skills mismatch, the undersupply of unskilled labour was less expected, especially in developing countries with high unemployment. The thesis utilises data on perceived worker undersupply on selected citrus farms in the Sundays River Valley (SRV), located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, collected in 2013, to analyse why unemployed residents, surprisingly, do not fill up vacancies on farms. In contrast to other labour markets, farm employment is not restricted by educational levels and as workers reported, with little training the various job tasks and skills required are easy and quick to grasp. At a time the government is trying to find ways of reducing unemployment, and the SRV Municipality (2012:29) reported approximately 42% unemployment, the question arises as to why the relatively low educated residents do not take advantage of the employment opportunities on farms. According to local workers and unemployed residents, the farm job was unattractive largely because of a combination of two factors: perceived relatively low salaries partly caused by the availability of migrant seasonal workers accepting lower remuneration and poor non-wage working conditions. The survey also found that farmers preferred migrant workers because they were more productive compared to their local counterparts who were, reportedly, characterised by high absenteeism and laziness, caused mainly by a reliance on social grants and alcohol abuse. Other reasons given for the unattractiveness of the farm job included the seasonal nature of farm employment, which left workers with no source of income in the offseason, the redundancy associated with farm tasks, perceived poor treatment of workers and lack of information on UIF and Provident funds to farm workers. To address problems associated with the dislike of farm work, seasonality of on-farm employment and the reportedly relatively low income, farm managers, the local municipality and the Labour Department could possibly be involved in creating more communal agricultural projects and help provide local community members to venture into supporting alternative careers within the Hospitality, Ecotourism and Conservation Industries through training programmes. Farm managers may need to consider improving their working relationship with workers in communication and when assigning tasks. Farmers and the local municipality could also consider investing in training programmes for the unemployed residents to equip them with technical skills that can improve their chances of finding jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Microbial water quality of treated water and raw water sources in the Harare area, Zimbabwe
- Chirenda, Tatenda G, Srinivas, Sunitha C, Tandlich, Roman
- Authors: Chirenda, Tatenda G , Srinivas, Sunitha C , Tandlich, Roman
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76206 , vital:30520 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/wsa.v41i5.12
- Description: Microbial water quality is an essential aspect in the provision of potable water for domestic use. The provision of adequate amounts of safe water for domestic purposes has become difficult for most municipalities mandated to do so in Zimbabwe. Morton-Jaffray Treatment Plant supplies potable water to Harare City and areas surrounding Harare. This study investigated microbial water quality and the impact of microbial water quality related disasters in the area supplied by the Morton Jaffray Treatment Plant. Questionnaires were distributed to household owners in Harare who receive their water from the Municipality and those who use alternate water supplies. Candidates were randomly selected from their workplace. The raw water quality of Manyame River and its tributaries was assessed. Treated water in households was assessed for microbial quality using hydrogen sulphide test and heterotrophic bacteria plate count. Raw water sources were found to be contaminated by faecal matter. Household water sources tested negative for faecal contamination but positive for heterotrophic bacteria. CFU quantities ranged from 1 to 452 CFU/m. for all samples. The WHO guidelines for domestic water sources state that water used for domestic purposes should not be contain than 100 CFU/m.. Public perceptions of water quality ranged from eunsafef to ehighly contaminatedf. A decrease in the level of aesthetic appeal resulted in residents resorting to alternative sources such as wells and rivers for their domestic water. The current state of treated water was suitable for domestic use. Pathogen monitoring of domestic water is recommended using the hydrogen sulphide test and R2A agar test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chirenda, Tatenda G , Srinivas, Sunitha C , Tandlich, Roman
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76206 , vital:30520 , http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/wsa.v41i5.12
- Description: Microbial water quality is an essential aspect in the provision of potable water for domestic use. The provision of adequate amounts of safe water for domestic purposes has become difficult for most municipalities mandated to do so in Zimbabwe. Morton-Jaffray Treatment Plant supplies potable water to Harare City and areas surrounding Harare. This study investigated microbial water quality and the impact of microbial water quality related disasters in the area supplied by the Morton Jaffray Treatment Plant. Questionnaires were distributed to household owners in Harare who receive their water from the Municipality and those who use alternate water supplies. Candidates were randomly selected from their workplace. The raw water quality of Manyame River and its tributaries was assessed. Treated water in households was assessed for microbial quality using hydrogen sulphide test and heterotrophic bacteria plate count. Raw water sources were found to be contaminated by faecal matter. Household water sources tested negative for faecal contamination but positive for heterotrophic bacteria. CFU quantities ranged from 1 to 452 CFU/m. for all samples. The WHO guidelines for domestic water sources state that water used for domestic purposes should not be contain than 100 CFU/m.. Public perceptions of water quality ranged from eunsafef to ehighly contaminatedf. A decrease in the level of aesthetic appeal resulted in residents resorting to alternative sources such as wells and rivers for their domestic water. The current state of treated water was suitable for domestic use. Pathogen monitoring of domestic water is recommended using the hydrogen sulphide test and R2A agar test.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The prevalence of planning and management frameworks for trees and green spaces in urban areas of South Africa
- Chishaleshale, M, Shackleton, Charlie M, Gambiza, James, Gumbo, Davison
- Authors: Chishaleshale, M , Shackleton, Charlie M , Gambiza, James , Gumbo, Davison
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/180884 , vital:43659 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2015.09.012"
- Description: Optimisation of the benefits from urban forestry and greening to urban dwellers and the environment rests on proactive and appropriate management planning, implementation and resourcing. Yet, lessons from the developed world show marked variability in development and adoption of urban tree and green space (UTGS) strategic plans and systematic monitoring and maintenance. Although financial and human resources for UTGS may be constrained in developing world contexts, there is no knowledge of the extent to which local authorities engage in appropriate and timely planning, management and monitoring. Here we examine the UTGS resourcing, planning, maintenance and integration across 28 local municipalities in the two poorest provinces in South Africa. It was revealed that most local municipalities were not managing their UTGS in a planned or systematic manner due to constraining factors such as insufficient funds, insufficient personnel, lack of equipment and lack of political support. Only 7% of the surveyed municipalities had an urban tree management plan and an estimate of the urban tree stock; 32% had tree policies; 21% had tree planting schedules; 11% had tree maintenance schedules. Over 65% claimed to engage other stakeholders in tree planting, but much was passive receipt of trees for planting rather than citizen engagement around species, places and values. Generally, the prevalence of most planning and maintenance elements increased with increasing size of the municipality and the presence of personnel specifically for UTGS management. It is likely that the prevalence of planning and maintenance functions will increase with greater political support from municipal councillors which may also decrease funding challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chishaleshale, M , Shackleton, Charlie M , Gambiza, James , Gumbo, Davison
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/180884 , vital:43659 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2015.09.012"
- Description: Optimisation of the benefits from urban forestry and greening to urban dwellers and the environment rests on proactive and appropriate management planning, implementation and resourcing. Yet, lessons from the developed world show marked variability in development and adoption of urban tree and green space (UTGS) strategic plans and systematic monitoring and maintenance. Although financial and human resources for UTGS may be constrained in developing world contexts, there is no knowledge of the extent to which local authorities engage in appropriate and timely planning, management and monitoring. Here we examine the UTGS resourcing, planning, maintenance and integration across 28 local municipalities in the two poorest provinces in South Africa. It was revealed that most local municipalities were not managing their UTGS in a planned or systematic manner due to constraining factors such as insufficient funds, insufficient personnel, lack of equipment and lack of political support. Only 7% of the surveyed municipalities had an urban tree management plan and an estimate of the urban tree stock; 32% had tree policies; 21% had tree planting schedules; 11% had tree maintenance schedules. Over 65% claimed to engage other stakeholders in tree planting, but much was passive receipt of trees for planting rather than citizen engagement around species, places and values. Generally, the prevalence of most planning and maintenance elements increased with increasing size of the municipality and the presence of personnel specifically for UTGS management. It is likely that the prevalence of planning and maintenance functions will increase with greater political support from municipal councillors which may also decrease funding challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015