A study of the identification and awareness level of students towards the Eastcape Midlands FET college brand
- Authors: Pienaar, Alicia Nicole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3125 , vital:20401
- Description: Since 1994, South Africa has been revamping its higher education system as part of a broader national reform movement aimed at overcoming the inequities and divisions caused by the now obsolete apartheid regime (Sedgwick, 2004). This treatise firstly describes and then explores if students identify themselves with the EMC corporate identity. Thereafter, it firstly explores and then describes the corporate identity awareness level of EMC students. An exploratory-descriptive research design was used. The researcher used two types of data. One was secondary data and the other one was primary data. The former were collected by means of an extensive review of the related literature. The latter were obtained by means of online questionnaires. The level of brand awareness among students is considered to be low. There is a need to improve the corporate identity awareness level of these strategic stakeholders for the future success of the college. This treatise concentrated on the parent brand (EMC). Furthermore, the sampling has been limited to students studying at EMC (Uitenhage campuses). It is important to explore the corporate brand awareness level of the students. It is also essential to discover if students identify themselves with the EMC brand.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Pienaar, Alicia Nicole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3125 , vital:20401
- Description: Since 1994, South Africa has been revamping its higher education system as part of a broader national reform movement aimed at overcoming the inequities and divisions caused by the now obsolete apartheid regime (Sedgwick, 2004). This treatise firstly describes and then explores if students identify themselves with the EMC corporate identity. Thereafter, it firstly explores and then describes the corporate identity awareness level of EMC students. An exploratory-descriptive research design was used. The researcher used two types of data. One was secondary data and the other one was primary data. The former were collected by means of an extensive review of the related literature. The latter were obtained by means of online questionnaires. The level of brand awareness among students is considered to be low. There is a need to improve the corporate identity awareness level of these strategic stakeholders for the future success of the college. This treatise concentrated on the parent brand (EMC). Furthermore, the sampling has been limited to students studying at EMC (Uitenhage campuses). It is important to explore the corporate brand awareness level of the students. It is also essential to discover if students identify themselves with the EMC brand.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of community-police partnerships: a case study of the Thornhill policing area
- Authors: Els, Deon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Community policing -- South Africa , Police-community relations , Crime prevention -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8617 , vital:26412
- Description: In this case study, an effective community-police partnership in the Thornhill area is described and explored as a function of the successful application of conflict management approaches. The partnership was implemented in a quest to solve the problem of increasing suicides at the Van Stadens Bridge. Indications are that partnership between government agencies and the community have generally failed in democratic South Africa with respect to the education, health and policing sectors. Partnerships between the community and policing system are challenging because the South African Police Service (SAPS) is continuously plagued by incidents of police brutality, police killings and leadership crises.In order to understand the context of the Thornhill community-police partnership and establish if the operation of the partnership is successful, a wide-ranging conflict management approach is taken to evaluate the partnership. The literature review includes the history of conflict in SA, SAPS and Community Policing, leadership in conflict management, theories of social conflict, and suicidology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Els, Deon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Community policing -- South Africa , Police-community relations , Crime prevention -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8617 , vital:26412
- Description: In this case study, an effective community-police partnership in the Thornhill area is described and explored as a function of the successful application of conflict management approaches. The partnership was implemented in a quest to solve the problem of increasing suicides at the Van Stadens Bridge. Indications are that partnership between government agencies and the community have generally failed in democratic South Africa with respect to the education, health and policing sectors. Partnerships between the community and policing system are challenging because the South African Police Service (SAPS) is continuously plagued by incidents of police brutality, police killings and leadership crises.In order to understand the context of the Thornhill community-police partnership and establish if the operation of the partnership is successful, a wide-ranging conflict management approach is taken to evaluate the partnership. The literature review includes the history of conflict in SA, SAPS and Community Policing, leadership in conflict management, theories of social conflict, and suicidology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of TalkBack, an interactive HIV and AIDS education programme on Botswana Television
- Authors: Tau, Nontobeko Sylvia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Visual communication -- Botswana , Television in health education -- Botswana , HIV infections -- Botswana -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5043 , vital:20794
- Description: The Republic of Botswana (2011a) recognises behaviour change as the only long term solution to the HIV and AIDS epidemic that has become a leading health and development challenge for the country. The study aimed to examine how Talk Back, an interactive HIV and AIDS educational programme on Botswana television, capacitates the school community to deal with challenges brought about by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. The study was based on recordings of 2014 Term One theme— ‘Paediatric care and support: challenges and implications in the teaching and learning environment. The study conducted a content analysis of Talk Back to determine behaviour change communication categories employed in producing the programme. All aspects of the Talk Back programme were also analysed to establish communication strategies employed in the presentation of content. Talk Back employed communication approaches such as panel discussions of matters related to HIV and AIDS by various specialists, video clips to present content, and viewers phoning in to interact with the panellists. A number of the callers identified challenges; the most common identified challenge was that parents tended not to disclose their children’s HIV status to the children due to the negative social stigma attached to HIV and AIDS. Although Talk Back provides a forum for interactive behaviour change communication, some listeners questioned the use of technical language.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Tau, Nontobeko Sylvia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Visual communication -- Botswana , Television in health education -- Botswana , HIV infections -- Botswana -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5043 , vital:20794
- Description: The Republic of Botswana (2011a) recognises behaviour change as the only long term solution to the HIV and AIDS epidemic that has become a leading health and development challenge for the country. The study aimed to examine how Talk Back, an interactive HIV and AIDS educational programme on Botswana television, capacitates the school community to deal with challenges brought about by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. The study was based on recordings of 2014 Term One theme— ‘Paediatric care and support: challenges and implications in the teaching and learning environment. The study conducted a content analysis of Talk Back to determine behaviour change communication categories employed in producing the programme. All aspects of the Talk Back programme were also analysed to establish communication strategies employed in the presentation of content. Talk Back employed communication approaches such as panel discussions of matters related to HIV and AIDS by various specialists, video clips to present content, and viewers phoning in to interact with the panellists. A number of the callers identified challenges; the most common identified challenge was that parents tended not to disclose their children’s HIV status to the children due to the negative social stigma attached to HIV and AIDS. Although Talk Back provides a forum for interactive behaviour change communication, some listeners questioned the use of technical language.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of the framing and representation of environmental and anthopogenic issues affecting the poor, in the Herald and The Weekend Post newspapers
- Authors: Walter, Michael Ernest
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mass media and the environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4299 , vital:20582
- Description: This paper interrogates local South African news media coverage of environmental issues affecting the poor and marginalized, particularly in regard to issues such as pollution, water contamination and the destruction of natural habitats. As such, this study focuses on content from The Weekend Post and The Herald from 2010 onwards. Issues such as pollution, in its various forms (air, water and land), are often under reported and not discussed. Essentially, these issues become matters about which little-to-nothing is done, particularly when it affects the poor. This notion of ‘dumping’ or moving environmental issues to affect poorer or disadvantaged people (normally of colour), is known as ‘environmental racism’. This paper will explore the media’s role in regard to these environmental issues and how it depicts, emphasizes or de-emphasizes the importance and urgency of these issues, especially those issues affecting poor or working class people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Walter, Michael Ernest
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mass media and the environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4299 , vital:20582
- Description: This paper interrogates local South African news media coverage of environmental issues affecting the poor and marginalized, particularly in regard to issues such as pollution, water contamination and the destruction of natural habitats. As such, this study focuses on content from The Weekend Post and The Herald from 2010 onwards. Issues such as pollution, in its various forms (air, water and land), are often under reported and not discussed. Essentially, these issues become matters about which little-to-nothing is done, particularly when it affects the poor. This notion of ‘dumping’ or moving environmental issues to affect poorer or disadvantaged people (normally of colour), is known as ‘environmental racism’. This paper will explore the media’s role in regard to these environmental issues and how it depicts, emphasizes or de-emphasizes the importance and urgency of these issues, especially those issues affecting poor or working class people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of the representation of sexual abuse in selected post-apartheid novels
- Authors: Fetile, Khanyisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century , Sexual abuse victims in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3822 , vital:20466
- Description: This study examines the way in which three South African novelists, K. Sello Duiker, Phaswane Mpe and Sindiwe Magona portray the sexual abuse of men and women in the post-apartheid era. The novels under discussion are: Thirteen Cents (2000) and The Quiet Violence of Dreams (2001) by K.Sello Duiker, Beauty’s Gift (2008) by Sindiwe Magona and Phaswane Mpe`s Welcome to Our Hillbrow. It will also look at the characters and the events to show that sexual abuse can be physical, traumatic and emotional, and that it affects both males and females, reinforcing in a sense Pucherova`s assertion that “both men and women are oppressed by a patriarchal heterosexist society” (2009:937).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Fetile, Khanyisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century , Sexual abuse victims in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3822 , vital:20466
- Description: This study examines the way in which three South African novelists, K. Sello Duiker, Phaswane Mpe and Sindiwe Magona portray the sexual abuse of men and women in the post-apartheid era. The novels under discussion are: Thirteen Cents (2000) and The Quiet Violence of Dreams (2001) by K.Sello Duiker, Beauty’s Gift (2008) by Sindiwe Magona and Phaswane Mpe`s Welcome to Our Hillbrow. It will also look at the characters and the events to show that sexual abuse can be physical, traumatic and emotional, and that it affects both males and females, reinforcing in a sense Pucherova`s assertion that “both men and women are oppressed by a patriarchal heterosexist society” (2009:937).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of the use of visual storytelling by South African brands to promote brand engagement on social networks
- Authors: Gwatiringa, Tsitsi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Digital storytelling -- South Africa , Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa , Social media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7533 , vital:21799
- Description: Stories have the ability to evoke feelings and emotions in humans and have since been used by brands as part of corporate communication, communicating their vision and values. However, the growing technological trends have not only shifted the platforms for communication but also changed the techniques of communication as audiences on social media expect two-way communication instead of the traditionally used one-way communication. This is exacerbated by the power of word-of-mouth on social media as well as the presence of digital natives who are increasingly visual in their nderstanding and are immersed in their lives online. This has given rise to the use of visual storytelling as a corporate communication strategy as brands are using it to connect, transmit and receive messages from their audiences. This study examines the ways in which South African brands are making use of visual storytelling on social media and aims to determine the extent to which the use of visual storytelling promotes brand-audience engagement. The study is based on the philosophical assumptions of the Visual Rhetoric framework, which is concerned with the symbolic processes by which images perform communication. The hermeneutic – interpretive research method design is applied to justify knowledge produced by this study. A content analysis of six social media pages was conducted, looking at the visual content posted as well as interpretation of comments and interactions by fans of the selected brand pages. Overall, South African brands make use of visual storytelling to promote brand-audience engagement but they are not utilising the communication strategy to its fullest extent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Gwatiringa, Tsitsi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Digital storytelling -- South Africa , Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa , Social media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7533 , vital:21799
- Description: Stories have the ability to evoke feelings and emotions in humans and have since been used by brands as part of corporate communication, communicating their vision and values. However, the growing technological trends have not only shifted the platforms for communication but also changed the techniques of communication as audiences on social media expect two-way communication instead of the traditionally used one-way communication. This is exacerbated by the power of word-of-mouth on social media as well as the presence of digital natives who are increasingly visual in their nderstanding and are immersed in their lives online. This has given rise to the use of visual storytelling as a corporate communication strategy as brands are using it to connect, transmit and receive messages from their audiences. This study examines the ways in which South African brands are making use of visual storytelling on social media and aims to determine the extent to which the use of visual storytelling promotes brand-audience engagement. The study is based on the philosophical assumptions of the Visual Rhetoric framework, which is concerned with the symbolic processes by which images perform communication. The hermeneutic – interpretive research method design is applied to justify knowledge produced by this study. A content analysis of six social media pages was conducted, looking at the visual content posted as well as interpretation of comments and interactions by fans of the selected brand pages. Overall, South African brands make use of visual storytelling to promote brand-audience engagement but they are not utilising the communication strategy to its fullest extent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An evaluation of intervention strategies into gangsterism in the Helenvale area
- Authors: Jonas, Branton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gang members -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa Social work with youth -- South Africa Juvenile delinquency -- South Africa -- Prevention , Problem youth -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10890 , vital:26833
- Description: The impact of intervention strategies to reduce gang related violence by Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the community at large has so far not attracted much attention or support from provincial and national authorities. Helenvale and its surrounding areas plays an integral part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality as the economic-hub of the Eastern Cape Province. But its gang problem has evolved over decades of socio-economic difficulties and struggle for a better life in the predominantly Coloured community. In order for this problem to be overcome a more strategically focused intervention strategy is required by local, provincial, and national authorities. This research study evaluates the gang intervention strategies in the Helenvale area and seeks to provide a primary research base from which key policies and strategies could be developed to address this challenge in an effort to bring about peace and stability in this community and other affected areas within close proximity of the area of study. At the heart of providing possible solutions to practices of gangsterism amongst mostly the youth, should be a well-coordinated intergovernmental high impact intervention strategy in partnership with NGO’s, civil society and other sectors of the community. Further solutions are the investment by authorities in rehabilitation centres, with skills development and job-creation opportunities as a key exit strategy for those involved in gangs. Acknowledgement that the enhancement and development of mediation skills of community based structures through the sharing of critical conflict theory and mediation practices, could make a substantial contribution to greater peace and stability in our communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Jonas, Branton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gang members -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa Social work with youth -- South Africa Juvenile delinquency -- South Africa -- Prevention , Problem youth -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10890 , vital:26833
- Description: The impact of intervention strategies to reduce gang related violence by Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the community at large has so far not attracted much attention or support from provincial and national authorities. Helenvale and its surrounding areas plays an integral part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality as the economic-hub of the Eastern Cape Province. But its gang problem has evolved over decades of socio-economic difficulties and struggle for a better life in the predominantly Coloured community. In order for this problem to be overcome a more strategically focused intervention strategy is required by local, provincial, and national authorities. This research study evaluates the gang intervention strategies in the Helenvale area and seeks to provide a primary research base from which key policies and strategies could be developed to address this challenge in an effort to bring about peace and stability in this community and other affected areas within close proximity of the area of study. At the heart of providing possible solutions to practices of gangsterism amongst mostly the youth, should be a well-coordinated intergovernmental high impact intervention strategy in partnership with NGO’s, civil society and other sectors of the community. Further solutions are the investment by authorities in rehabilitation centres, with skills development and job-creation opportunities as a key exit strategy for those involved in gangs. Acknowledgement that the enhancement and development of mediation skills of community based structures through the sharing of critical conflict theory and mediation practices, could make a substantial contribution to greater peace and stability in our communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An exploration of the effect of world politics on SADC's capacity to manage and resolve violent conflict
- Authors: Matsanga, Mavis
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian intervention -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6886 , vital:21157
- Description: The rise of International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOS) in the post-Cold War era in Africa exerted pressure on conflict resolution mechanisms as governments responded to perceived and real pressure from external, mainly Western countries. INGOs are well resourced and conduct ‘humanitarian’ and other work funded by donors. The issue of funding is critical to control and legitimacy. It is also tied to achievement of intended goals. The study explores the relationships and in some cases conflict between Western NGOs in Zimbabwe and the government during the period when the latter was experiencing diplomatic estrangement with Western countries. The qualitative study seeks to establish whether INGO operations were influenced by political relations. The researcher interviewed twenty experts in NGO and governmental operations using an interview guide. Data was collected and entered into Nvivo software where it was thematically analysed. The major findings of the study are that the political strand is the main relational context that determined the relationship between the government and INGOs. INGOs were viewed as active conflict drivers mostly due to the bias towards certain political parties and being conduits of Western initiatives. Local conflict resolution mechanisms were also established to be inadequate. The study recommends that the government of Zimbabwe needs to work on maladministration and resolve differences with Western countries. Local NGOs and INGOs should not meddle in politics in order to have a trustworthy relationship with government while donor funds are more appreciated when channelled through governments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Matsanga, Mavis
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian intervention -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6886 , vital:21157
- Description: The rise of International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOS) in the post-Cold War era in Africa exerted pressure on conflict resolution mechanisms as governments responded to perceived and real pressure from external, mainly Western countries. INGOs are well resourced and conduct ‘humanitarian’ and other work funded by donors. The issue of funding is critical to control and legitimacy. It is also tied to achievement of intended goals. The study explores the relationships and in some cases conflict between Western NGOs in Zimbabwe and the government during the period when the latter was experiencing diplomatic estrangement with Western countries. The qualitative study seeks to establish whether INGO operations were influenced by political relations. The researcher interviewed twenty experts in NGO and governmental operations using an interview guide. Data was collected and entered into Nvivo software where it was thematically analysed. The major findings of the study are that the political strand is the main relational context that determined the relationship between the government and INGOs. INGOs were viewed as active conflict drivers mostly due to the bias towards certain political parties and being conduits of Western initiatives. Local conflict resolution mechanisms were also established to be inadequate. The study recommends that the government of Zimbabwe needs to work on maladministration and resolve differences with Western countries. Local NGOs and INGOs should not meddle in politics in order to have a trustworthy relationship with government while donor funds are more appreciated when channelled through governments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An exploration of the effects of mindfulness on people with an HIV positive diagnosis living in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: McIntyre, Tracy-Leigh
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy Stress management HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9903 , vital:26631
- Description: Mindfulness research is growing considerably, though there is very little research in the area of HIV and mindfulness. This study explored and described the experience of a sample of HIV positive people, before and after an 8 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme, to ascertain whether mindfulness can positively impact the CD4 count of the participants, with the consequent improvement to their immune systems. The incidence of depression, anxiety and stress levels were also explored. The research sample consisted of 17 participants recruited from a local hospital clinic. Purposive sampling was used to source participants. The mixed method approach of data gathering was made up of a pre-test post-test battery of questionnaires and blood tests. Mindfulness levels were assessed with the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) at 3 intervals, while depression, anxiety and stress were assessed by means of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Key findings included the following: the drop out rate for this population group was large, mindfulness practices do not always have a positive effect on immune functioning when there are other confounding variables at play, all participants reported they benefited from the 8 week MBSR course, though their results did not always indicate this. In conclusion it is proposed that mindfulness is potentially beneficial.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: McIntyre, Tracy-Leigh
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy Stress management HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9903 , vital:26631
- Description: Mindfulness research is growing considerably, though there is very little research in the area of HIV and mindfulness. This study explored and described the experience of a sample of HIV positive people, before and after an 8 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme, to ascertain whether mindfulness can positively impact the CD4 count of the participants, with the consequent improvement to their immune systems. The incidence of depression, anxiety and stress levels were also explored. The research sample consisted of 17 participants recruited from a local hospital clinic. Purposive sampling was used to source participants. The mixed method approach of data gathering was made up of a pre-test post-test battery of questionnaires and blood tests. Mindfulness levels were assessed with the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) at 3 intervals, while depression, anxiety and stress were assessed by means of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Key findings included the following: the drop out rate for this population group was large, mindfulness practices do not always have a positive effect on immune functioning when there are other confounding variables at play, all participants reported they benefited from the 8 week MBSR course, though their results did not always indicate this. In conclusion it is proposed that mindfulness is potentially beneficial.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation into the role of social media in the 2014 South African general election
- Authors: Numa, Esethu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa , Communication in politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5271 , vital:20833
- Description: The citizens of a state make sense of political parties from what is communicated about the parties as well as how that message is communicated. The use of social media, as a campaign communication vehicle, by political parties and voters is increasing, which brings rise to the need to examine the role of social media in South African politics. This study, which is a necessary exploration of political communication in South Africa, particularly on social media post-1994, looks at the scope of political communication on social media pre and post the 2014 elections in South Africa. Through a content analysis, this study analyses the communication messages of political parties on Twitter and the public‟s response to those messages. Furthermore, drawing from the theories of Framing and Agenda setting, this study explores how issues are framed on social media as well as the agenda setting role of social media. The study also identifies the issues that present themselves in political communication through social media in South Africa, and proposes ways in which the political parties could campaign more compellingly and effectively on social media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Numa, Esethu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa , Communication in politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5271 , vital:20833
- Description: The citizens of a state make sense of political parties from what is communicated about the parties as well as how that message is communicated. The use of social media, as a campaign communication vehicle, by political parties and voters is increasing, which brings rise to the need to examine the role of social media in South African politics. This study, which is a necessary exploration of political communication in South Africa, particularly on social media post-1994, looks at the scope of political communication on social media pre and post the 2014 elections in South Africa. Through a content analysis, this study analyses the communication messages of political parties on Twitter and the public‟s response to those messages. Furthermore, drawing from the theories of Framing and Agenda setting, this study explores how issues are framed on social media as well as the agenda setting role of social media. The study also identifies the issues that present themselves in political communication through social media in South Africa, and proposes ways in which the political parties could campaign more compellingly and effectively on social media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation of the consumer protection Act (2008) and plain language application at selected businesses in the Port Elizabeth metropole
- Authors: Van Jaarsveld, Roslynn
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: South Africa. Consumer Protection Act, 2008 , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Administrative law -- South Africa -- Language , Administrative law -- Language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4012 , vital:20504
- Description: Businesses communicate a wide variety of messages to diverse audiences using a number of different communication types and channels daily. For example, business communication includes business reports, documents (booklets, leaflets, and official communiqués), notices, agreements, web copy and advertisements that are produced continually to address a variety of business communication needs for a variety of audiences. Although written business communication has a significant impact on customer satisfaction and consumer attitude which, in turn, affects consumer behaviour positively or negatively, there is a lack of research investigating the knowledge and application of plain language in business communication. Many studies were found to be related to communication and language, however, studies about plain language use were less prevalent. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the awareness of the plain language regulations stipulated in the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA) 68 of 2008 (2009). The application of these plain language principles within businesses in the Port Elizabeth Metropole, with specific reference to its use in written business communication was also investigated. The study also aimed to identify plain language best practices and constraints resulting from plain language application or non-application within the selected organisations. The research focused attention on the impact of business communication on customer satisfaction, consumer attitude and, ultimately, consumer behaviour as well as the need for plain language use in written business communication practices to ensure effective and fair (ethical) communication. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on communication, communication theory and consumer behaviour, as well as on plain language principles which might add to the effectiveness of organisations’ written business communication, to provide a theoretical foundation for the study. The study’s research methodology was approached from a phenomenological (descriptive and interpretive), and somewhat positivistic perspective, utilising qualitative and limited quantitative measures to obtain data. For this reason, three managers from three respective organisations within the Port Elizabeth Metropole were interviewed and asked to complete a rating-scale survey to obtain insight on the written business communication practices of these organisations. A content analysis of documents supplied by the participating organisations were also reviewed to provide commentary on the plain language application in each organisation. Furthermore, Section 2 of the South African CPA 68 of 2008 (2009) was also reviewed to measure and comment on the application of plain language in these organisations. Based on the data analysis, it was evident that organisations in the Port Elizabeth Metropole were aware of plain language and the plain language regulations stipulated in the South African CPA 68 of 2008 (2009), but that they were not certain what the regulations entailed exactly. Furthermore, plain language principles were applied in the participating organisations, however, complications and areas for possible improvement were identified in the data. From the study’s findings, various recommendations were made that could assist the organisations to improve their organisations’ plain language application. These recommendations included, for example, appointing plain language champions to monitor plain language application in the organisation, as well as assessing language competence of staff and training them to improve their language competencies. Recommendations for future research suggested that future studies needed to include a larger research sample, a more diverse sample population to include consumers and a broader industrial demographic. In addition, future studies could attempt to investigate communication barriers that inhibit or challenge comprehension in consumer communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Van Jaarsveld, Roslynn
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: South Africa. Consumer Protection Act, 2008 , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Administrative law -- South Africa -- Language , Administrative law -- Language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4012 , vital:20504
- Description: Businesses communicate a wide variety of messages to diverse audiences using a number of different communication types and channels daily. For example, business communication includes business reports, documents (booklets, leaflets, and official communiqués), notices, agreements, web copy and advertisements that are produced continually to address a variety of business communication needs for a variety of audiences. Although written business communication has a significant impact on customer satisfaction and consumer attitude which, in turn, affects consumer behaviour positively or negatively, there is a lack of research investigating the knowledge and application of plain language in business communication. Many studies were found to be related to communication and language, however, studies about plain language use were less prevalent. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the awareness of the plain language regulations stipulated in the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA) 68 of 2008 (2009). The application of these plain language principles within businesses in the Port Elizabeth Metropole, with specific reference to its use in written business communication was also investigated. The study also aimed to identify plain language best practices and constraints resulting from plain language application or non-application within the selected organisations. The research focused attention on the impact of business communication on customer satisfaction, consumer attitude and, ultimately, consumer behaviour as well as the need for plain language use in written business communication practices to ensure effective and fair (ethical) communication. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on communication, communication theory and consumer behaviour, as well as on plain language principles which might add to the effectiveness of organisations’ written business communication, to provide a theoretical foundation for the study. The study’s research methodology was approached from a phenomenological (descriptive and interpretive), and somewhat positivistic perspective, utilising qualitative and limited quantitative measures to obtain data. For this reason, three managers from three respective organisations within the Port Elizabeth Metropole were interviewed and asked to complete a rating-scale survey to obtain insight on the written business communication practices of these organisations. A content analysis of documents supplied by the participating organisations were also reviewed to provide commentary on the plain language application in each organisation. Furthermore, Section 2 of the South African CPA 68 of 2008 (2009) was also reviewed to measure and comment on the application of plain language in these organisations. Based on the data analysis, it was evident that organisations in the Port Elizabeth Metropole were aware of plain language and the plain language regulations stipulated in the South African CPA 68 of 2008 (2009), but that they were not certain what the regulations entailed exactly. Furthermore, plain language principles were applied in the participating organisations, however, complications and areas for possible improvement were identified in the data. From the study’s findings, various recommendations were made that could assist the organisations to improve their organisations’ plain language application. These recommendations included, for example, appointing plain language champions to monitor plain language application in the organisation, as well as assessing language competence of staff and training them to improve their language competencies. Recommendations for future research suggested that future studies needed to include a larger research sample, a more diverse sample population to include consumers and a broader industrial demographic. In addition, future studies could attempt to investigate communication barriers that inhibit or challenge comprehension in consumer communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation of the strategies for sustainability of selected community radio stations in Transkei rural areas of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mafani, Hlanga Eric
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Radio stations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5963 , vital:21020
- Description: This research project was aimed at investigating strategies that are used for the sustainability of selected rural-based community radio stations in the Transkei area of the Eastern Cape. The study was done under a hypothesis that, in the absence of big business and migration of literate people and skilled labour from rural communities to urban centres, rural-based community radios struggle to attract operational revenue through advertising, community support, etc., and that the supposedly high illiteracy in the rural areas render it difficult to run the stations. Two rural-based community radio stations were selected for this study: Alfred Nzo Community Radio at Mount Ayliff in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality area, and Vukani Community Radio at Cala in the Chris Hani District Municipality area. The aim was to study their activities with regard to the most and widely agreed three-dimensional method of sustaining community radio stations: Financial Sustainability, Institutional Sustainability, and Social Sustainability. Relevant literature has been reviewed and data have been collected using both quantitative and qualitative methods through questionnaires. The study however leans more on the qualitative approach and a quantitative approach has merely been used to identify the trends of the views of the participants. The analysis of data highlights the views of the respondents about these radio stations with regard to their strategies to sustain themselves. The views of the respondents represent all people from all levels of people involved in the stations: From the Member of the Board of Directors in the boardroom to stations’ members of management at their desks. From Presenters behind their microphones to the listener in the dusty streets of the poor rural areas. The results confirm the hypothesis that the areas have high unemployment and illiteracy rates, and that their sustainability depend largely on trade-outs with local business and government support. However, the study also shows that strategies for Financial Sustainability, Institutional Sustainability, and Social Sustainability may overlap or influence each other. For instance, an activity of Institutional Sustainability may result in Financial Sustainability, and visa-versa. The study also reveals that the stations struggle to establish and maintain effective Social Sustainability for the benefit of the station. In the light of this, a proposal for further study and recommendations are given at the end of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mafani, Hlanga Eric
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Radio stations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5963 , vital:21020
- Description: This research project was aimed at investigating strategies that are used for the sustainability of selected rural-based community radio stations in the Transkei area of the Eastern Cape. The study was done under a hypothesis that, in the absence of big business and migration of literate people and skilled labour from rural communities to urban centres, rural-based community radios struggle to attract operational revenue through advertising, community support, etc., and that the supposedly high illiteracy in the rural areas render it difficult to run the stations. Two rural-based community radio stations were selected for this study: Alfred Nzo Community Radio at Mount Ayliff in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality area, and Vukani Community Radio at Cala in the Chris Hani District Municipality area. The aim was to study their activities with regard to the most and widely agreed three-dimensional method of sustaining community radio stations: Financial Sustainability, Institutional Sustainability, and Social Sustainability. Relevant literature has been reviewed and data have been collected using both quantitative and qualitative methods through questionnaires. The study however leans more on the qualitative approach and a quantitative approach has merely been used to identify the trends of the views of the participants. The analysis of data highlights the views of the respondents about these radio stations with regard to their strategies to sustain themselves. The views of the respondents represent all people from all levels of people involved in the stations: From the Member of the Board of Directors in the boardroom to stations’ members of management at their desks. From Presenters behind their microphones to the listener in the dusty streets of the poor rural areas. The results confirm the hypothesis that the areas have high unemployment and illiteracy rates, and that their sustainability depend largely on trade-outs with local business and government support. However, the study also shows that strategies for Financial Sustainability, Institutional Sustainability, and Social Sustainability may overlap or influence each other. For instance, an activity of Institutional Sustainability may result in Financial Sustainability, and visa-versa. The study also reveals that the stations struggle to establish and maintain effective Social Sustainability for the benefit of the station. In the light of this, a proposal for further study and recommendations are given at the end of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Androcentrism and misogyny in late twentieth century rock music
- Authors: Berkland, Darren Gary
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Music -- Social aspects , Gender identity in music , Music -- Performance -- Psychological aspects , Emotions in music , Rock musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021199
- Description: Judith Butler’s writings on gender ostensibly changed the way gender is considered with regard to an individual’s subjectivity. Her writings expressed a discursive parameter that changed the theoretical standpoint of gender from that of performance, to that of performativity. In short, the notion of gender became understood as a power mechanism operating within society that compels individuals along the heteronormal binary tracts of male or female, man or woman. Within the strata of popular culture, this binarism is seemingly ritualized and repeated, incessantly. This treatise examines how rock music, as a popular and widespread mode of popular music, exemplifies gender binarism through a notable ndrocentrism. The research will examine how gender performativity operates within the taxonomy of rock music, and how the message communicated by rock music becomes translated into a listener’s subjectivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Berkland, Darren Gary
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Music -- Social aspects , Gender identity in music , Music -- Performance -- Psychological aspects , Emotions in music , Rock musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021199
- Description: Judith Butler’s writings on gender ostensibly changed the way gender is considered with regard to an individual’s subjectivity. Her writings expressed a discursive parameter that changed the theoretical standpoint of gender from that of performance, to that of performativity. In short, the notion of gender became understood as a power mechanism operating within society that compels individuals along the heteronormal binary tracts of male or female, man or woman. Within the strata of popular culture, this binarism is seemingly ritualized and repeated, incessantly. This treatise examines how rock music, as a popular and widespread mode of popular music, exemplifies gender binarism through a notable ndrocentrism. The research will examine how gender performativity operates within the taxonomy of rock music, and how the message communicated by rock music becomes translated into a listener’s subjectivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Die verjaardagvers-ritueel in Breyten Breytenbach se oeuvre
- Authors: Tait, Charles Norman
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Breytenbach, Breyten -- Poetry , Poets, South African
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5076 , vital:20800
- Description: This study investigates the subgenre of the birthday poem within Breyten Breytenbach’s poetical oeuvre. Throughout the now half a century of his poetic production the writer has repeatedly written poems for himself on his birthday on 16 September of each new year (as well as a smaller number to his wife and close friends) The writing of birthday poems becomes a ritualist poetical act throughout the poet’s life and poetical oeuvre, one that has served many purposes over the years of Breytenbach’s increasingly nomadic existence. This study’s scope spans fifty years of poetical output, starting with the poet’s debut anthology, Die ysterkoei moet sweet (1964), including all the anthologies up to the publication of vyf-en-veertig skemeraandsange uit die eenbeendanser se werkruimte (2014). A small literary history is offered at the outset of the tradition of the birthday poem, based in classical Roman times (Argetsinger,K 1992) and following through to modern times. After describing the reasons for the sometimes challenging task of identifying birthday poems (unmarked by dates, having to rely on inference deduced from the content, and the like), the poems are analyzed with a particular focus on their nature and function within the larger context of the poet’s oeuvre. The research is organized according to the separate phases traceable in Breyten Breytenbach’s oeuvre (Van Vuuren 2011: 46–56), describing the steadily shifting themes and motifs of the subgenre throughout each of the four phases (pre-prison, prison, post-prison and late work phases). It was found that the birthday poems cohere as a subgenre within the oeuvre. Breytenbach’s birthday poems have a distinctive character and certain identifiable qualities (ritualistic characteristics such as reflection on the self within the present, reflection on time past, evaluating the situation and self on the particular birthday. Placed against the specific context in which the poet finds himself, with a poetical and autobiographical way forward implied in the given milieu and context, psychological insights are utilized where applicable, especially in the prison birthday poems and the late work birthday poems. A remarkable new insight gained through this study is the nature of he “reminiscence bump” (Janssen, Haque 2014) which older people experience, and is identified also in Breytenbach’s late work birthday poems. This adds to and refines the understanding of the nature of late work in Breytenbach’s poetical oeuvre. A final insight gained from the research is that description and comprehension of this smaller corpus of birthday poems (roughly thirty identified at present) may also be used as an entry into understanding of the nature of the poet’s large oeuvre (comprising twenty collections of poetry, containing around 1,600 poems between 1964 and 2014), as they represent each stage of development in Breyten Breytenbach’s oeuvre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Tait, Charles Norman
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Breytenbach, Breyten -- Poetry , Poets, South African
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5076 , vital:20800
- Description: This study investigates the subgenre of the birthday poem within Breyten Breytenbach’s poetical oeuvre. Throughout the now half a century of his poetic production the writer has repeatedly written poems for himself on his birthday on 16 September of each new year (as well as a smaller number to his wife and close friends) The writing of birthday poems becomes a ritualist poetical act throughout the poet’s life and poetical oeuvre, one that has served many purposes over the years of Breytenbach’s increasingly nomadic existence. This study’s scope spans fifty years of poetical output, starting with the poet’s debut anthology, Die ysterkoei moet sweet (1964), including all the anthologies up to the publication of vyf-en-veertig skemeraandsange uit die eenbeendanser se werkruimte (2014). A small literary history is offered at the outset of the tradition of the birthday poem, based in classical Roman times (Argetsinger,K 1992) and following through to modern times. After describing the reasons for the sometimes challenging task of identifying birthday poems (unmarked by dates, having to rely on inference deduced from the content, and the like), the poems are analyzed with a particular focus on their nature and function within the larger context of the poet’s oeuvre. The research is organized according to the separate phases traceable in Breyten Breytenbach’s oeuvre (Van Vuuren 2011: 46–56), describing the steadily shifting themes and motifs of the subgenre throughout each of the four phases (pre-prison, prison, post-prison and late work phases). It was found that the birthday poems cohere as a subgenre within the oeuvre. Breytenbach’s birthday poems have a distinctive character and certain identifiable qualities (ritualistic characteristics such as reflection on the self within the present, reflection on time past, evaluating the situation and self on the particular birthday. Placed against the specific context in which the poet finds himself, with a poetical and autobiographical way forward implied in the given milieu and context, psychological insights are utilized where applicable, especially in the prison birthday poems and the late work birthday poems. A remarkable new insight gained through this study is the nature of he “reminiscence bump” (Janssen, Haque 2014) which older people experience, and is identified also in Breytenbach’s late work birthday poems. This adds to and refines the understanding of the nature of late work in Breytenbach’s poetical oeuvre. A final insight gained from the research is that description and comprehension of this smaller corpus of birthday poems (roughly thirty identified at present) may also be used as an entry into understanding of the nature of the poet’s large oeuvre (comprising twenty collections of poetry, containing around 1,600 poems between 1964 and 2014), as they represent each stage of development in Breyten Breytenbach’s oeuvre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Identity in the media in a post-apartheid radio station in South Africa: the case of Lotus FM
- Authors: Pillay, Divinia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Public broadcasting -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Radio stations -- South Africa , Post-apartheid era -- South Africa , Identity politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5709 , vital:20971
- Description: This research study investigates Lotus FM, as one of many South African Media components that are catering for one specific cultural or religious group. The investigation explores the implications of practice of a pecific media component that caters for specific cultural or religious groups operating in a post-apartheid South Africa. After the end of the apartheid era in South Africa, a number of South African media components have proclaimed their commitment to reconciliation and nation building within South Africa by attempting to unite audiences. The South African Broadcasting Corporation, which held the monopoly on South African Broadcasting for decades, has promulgated the notion of the rainbow nation to audiences in South Africa. Since 1994, sub-components of the different South African media segments were developed to cater for specific ethnic or cultural groups by the station managements. This was aimed at reversing the effects of pre-1994 media that catered for the former ruling minority only or ethnic groups that were categorized by the former political dispensation. It is possible, however, that this has resulted in a renewed and continued separation of interest groups present in South Africa today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Pillay, Divinia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Public broadcasting -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Radio stations -- South Africa , Post-apartheid era -- South Africa , Identity politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5709 , vital:20971
- Description: This research study investigates Lotus FM, as one of many South African Media components that are catering for one specific cultural or religious group. The investigation explores the implications of practice of a pecific media component that caters for specific cultural or religious groups operating in a post-apartheid South Africa. After the end of the apartheid era in South Africa, a number of South African media components have proclaimed their commitment to reconciliation and nation building within South Africa by attempting to unite audiences. The South African Broadcasting Corporation, which held the monopoly on South African Broadcasting for decades, has promulgated the notion of the rainbow nation to audiences in South Africa. Since 1994, sub-components of the different South African media segments were developed to cater for specific ethnic or cultural groups by the station managements. This was aimed at reversing the effects of pre-1994 media that catered for the former ruling minority only or ethnic groups that were categorized by the former political dispensation. It is possible, however, that this has resulted in a renewed and continued separation of interest groups present in South Africa today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Implementation of the national language policy at institutions of higher education
- Authors: Ownhouse, Aileen Lucia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Multilingual education -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3415 , vital:20428
- Description: This study investigated the implementation progress of the National Language Policy (NLP) of South Africa (SA) by reviewing pertinent research related to Language Policy (LP) initiatives. In particular, the study explored the implications of the NLP implementation on multilingual teaching and learning practices, especially practices aimed at developing proficiency in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT). In particular, the LP implementation initiatives to support a multilingual practice community at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) were overviewed. The study focused on and assessed the AHZ Project multilingual initiative in the Department of Applied Language Studies (DALS) at NMMU. The AHZ Project multilingual initiative included text translation and multilingual tutorial strategies to assist isiXhosa-speaking students understand grammatical concepts. As a result, an aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of the AHZ Project by assessing the perceptions of English Language Studies (LES111) students and lecturers who were responsible for implementing the initiative. Finally, the research aimed to determine reasons for the apparent slow progress of implementing multilingualism as a teaching and learning practice as well as the underlying constraints of implementing the NLP at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). A mixed-method approach was selected to explore the aims of the research study as both quantitative and qualitative data collection tools were used. As the AHZ Project initiative was the study’s data sample, data was collected by conducting three face-to-face semi-structured interviews with two LES111 lecturers and a tutor as well as one focus-group interview with eight student participants. In addition, a LEC online assessment and 284 LES111 reflective paragraphs were analysed. NVivo 10 qualitative software was used for the coding of the data and a descriptive analysis of the interviews as well as the LEC online assessment was employed. To code and analyse the face-to-face semi-structured and focus-group interview transcripts, dominant themes from the study’s literature review, for example, Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and Mother Tongue (MT) transfer were used. The reflective paragraphs were analysed manually using a quantitative coding approach. From the data coding, the study’s findings were determined and interpreted. The LEC assessment confirmed that the students were not coping with the LOLT. By taking cognisance of the AHZ Project strategies and investigating the perceptions of the participants towards the initiative, conclusions were drawn. These conclusions indicated positive attitudes towards the multilingual language practices as implemented by the AHZ Project initiative. In addition, the perceptions towards identity, language status, mother tongue education and language transfer were articulated. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made to promote the use of African Languages as LOLTs in teaching and learning classroom practices. Recommendations were also made for future research relating to the teaching of African Languages (ALs) in the schooling sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ownhouse, Aileen Lucia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Multilingual education -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3415 , vital:20428
- Description: This study investigated the implementation progress of the National Language Policy (NLP) of South Africa (SA) by reviewing pertinent research related to Language Policy (LP) initiatives. In particular, the study explored the implications of the NLP implementation on multilingual teaching and learning practices, especially practices aimed at developing proficiency in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT). In particular, the LP implementation initiatives to support a multilingual practice community at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) were overviewed. The study focused on and assessed the AHZ Project multilingual initiative in the Department of Applied Language Studies (DALS) at NMMU. The AHZ Project multilingual initiative included text translation and multilingual tutorial strategies to assist isiXhosa-speaking students understand grammatical concepts. As a result, an aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of the AHZ Project by assessing the perceptions of English Language Studies (LES111) students and lecturers who were responsible for implementing the initiative. Finally, the research aimed to determine reasons for the apparent slow progress of implementing multilingualism as a teaching and learning practice as well as the underlying constraints of implementing the NLP at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). A mixed-method approach was selected to explore the aims of the research study as both quantitative and qualitative data collection tools were used. As the AHZ Project initiative was the study’s data sample, data was collected by conducting three face-to-face semi-structured interviews with two LES111 lecturers and a tutor as well as one focus-group interview with eight student participants. In addition, a LEC online assessment and 284 LES111 reflective paragraphs were analysed. NVivo 10 qualitative software was used for the coding of the data and a descriptive analysis of the interviews as well as the LEC online assessment was employed. To code and analyse the face-to-face semi-structured and focus-group interview transcripts, dominant themes from the study’s literature review, for example, Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and Mother Tongue (MT) transfer were used. The reflective paragraphs were analysed manually using a quantitative coding approach. From the data coding, the study’s findings were determined and interpreted. The LEC assessment confirmed that the students were not coping with the LOLT. By taking cognisance of the AHZ Project strategies and investigating the perceptions of the participants towards the initiative, conclusions were drawn. These conclusions indicated positive attitudes towards the multilingual language practices as implemented by the AHZ Project initiative. In addition, the perceptions towards identity, language status, mother tongue education and language transfer were articulated. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made to promote the use of African Languages as LOLTs in teaching and learning classroom practices. Recommendations were also made for future research relating to the teaching of African Languages (ALs) in the schooling sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investigating the Cuban Revolución Agricola as a model for the post-'peak oil' age
- Authors: Weideman, Lisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- Cuba , Agriculture and state -- Cuba , Green Revolution -- Cuba , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Cuba , Cuba -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4998 , vital:20777
- Description: In this dissertation, the socio-ecological transformations that occurred during Cuba’s Revolución Agrícola are explored, against the backdrop of the historical subalternisation of the country as a consequence of Spanish and American imperialism, and in relation to the continuing subalternisation of the country and its people through the neoliberal mass media. To contextualize such exploration, the origins of large-scale privatization of common land, and the subsequent process of urbanization in the West, are investigated, before Cuba’s similar developmental path – as a result of Spanish colonialism, U.S. imperialism, and communist influence – is detailed. Thereafter, the way in which Cuba established an alternative food paradigm, characterised by local, communal, and urban production during the country’s ‘Special Period’ in the 1990s, is discussed, with a view to illustrating how this eco-socialist model of food production, in both rural and urban areas, led to new relations between people and nature. This Cuban model is then posited as a socio-ecologically sustainable model of food production, deserving of the attention of communities around the world, who seek to gain a degree of autonomy from neoliberal agribusiness. Conversely, the efforts of mainstream neoliberal mass media to silence the immensely positive characteristics of the revolution are also investigated, and framed in terms of the historical subjugation of Cuban voices in the American mass media, and the contemporary marginalisation of the country and its people in the neoliberal mass media. Finally, the dissertation concludes by examining the alternative media response, on the part of several prominent Cubans and those sympathetic to their cause, to bring attention to the value of the socio-ecological transformations that have occurred on the island, against the backdrop of various theorisations of the importance of alternative media platforms as a radical counterforce to neoliberal mass media hegemony.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Weideman, Lisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- Cuba , Agriculture and state -- Cuba , Green Revolution -- Cuba , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Cuba , Cuba -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4998 , vital:20777
- Description: In this dissertation, the socio-ecological transformations that occurred during Cuba’s Revolución Agrícola are explored, against the backdrop of the historical subalternisation of the country as a consequence of Spanish and American imperialism, and in relation to the continuing subalternisation of the country and its people through the neoliberal mass media. To contextualize such exploration, the origins of large-scale privatization of common land, and the subsequent process of urbanization in the West, are investigated, before Cuba’s similar developmental path – as a result of Spanish colonialism, U.S. imperialism, and communist influence – is detailed. Thereafter, the way in which Cuba established an alternative food paradigm, characterised by local, communal, and urban production during the country’s ‘Special Period’ in the 1990s, is discussed, with a view to illustrating how this eco-socialist model of food production, in both rural and urban areas, led to new relations between people and nature. This Cuban model is then posited as a socio-ecologically sustainable model of food production, deserving of the attention of communities around the world, who seek to gain a degree of autonomy from neoliberal agribusiness. Conversely, the efforts of mainstream neoliberal mass media to silence the immensely positive characteristics of the revolution are also investigated, and framed in terms of the historical subjugation of Cuban voices in the American mass media, and the contemporary marginalisation of the country and its people in the neoliberal mass media. Finally, the dissertation concludes by examining the alternative media response, on the part of several prominent Cubans and those sympathetic to their cause, to bring attention to the value of the socio-ecological transformations that have occurred on the island, against the backdrop of various theorisations of the importance of alternative media platforms as a radical counterforce to neoliberal mass media hegemony.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing stakeholders involvement in website communication: a comparative study of Lesotho and South African national websites
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Political communication: a case study of the Democratic Alliance and its use of digital media in the 2014 South African General Elections
- Authors: Chong, Sandra Pow
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication -- Political aspects -- South Africa Mass media -- Political aspects -- South Africa Political campaigns -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11416 , vital:26923
- Description: Political organisations are now using a two-way path of communication thanks to the development of technological platforms that work in-sync with the internet to allow this to happen. Information can now flow across new networks to allow exchanges from the many to the many. This study sets out to explore the use of social media by political organisations as a means of political communication. A case study was conducted which focussed on online communication used by the Democratic Alliance in the 2014 General Elections in South Africa. The social media strategies adopted by the Democratic Alliance was examined. Reference is made to the 2008 Obama Campaign. The study revealed that the DA primarily made use of two-way asymmetrical communication despite the party posting a lot of consistent information and content; however in response to many questions and comments posted on the social media fora by online users, the DA only selectively responded to a handful of these.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chong, Sandra Pow
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication -- Political aspects -- South Africa Mass media -- Political aspects -- South Africa Political campaigns -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11416 , vital:26923
- Description: Political organisations are now using a two-way path of communication thanks to the development of technological platforms that work in-sync with the internet to allow this to happen. Information can now flow across new networks to allow exchanges from the many to the many. This study sets out to explore the use of social media by political organisations as a means of political communication. A case study was conducted which focussed on online communication used by the Democratic Alliance in the 2014 General Elections in South Africa. The social media strategies adopted by the Democratic Alliance was examined. Reference is made to the 2008 Obama Campaign. The study revealed that the DA primarily made use of two-way asymmetrical communication despite the party posting a lot of consistent information and content; however in response to many questions and comments posted on the social media fora by online users, the DA only selectively responded to a handful of these.
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- 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