Examining the position of black South African accents in English in Drama Departments within institutions in the Western Cape Province: a case study
- Authors: Seekoe, Leanetse Thato
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16397 , vital:40716
- Description: This dissertation examines the treatment and perceptions of black South African accents in English in the drama departments of specific institutions of higher learning in the Western Cape Province. The researcher is concerned with the handling of African native cultural identities in the curriculum policy of Drama Departments in higher education institutions in the Western Cape Province. Although the focus of the research is on the institutions that are based in the Western Cape Province, the subjects that are being discussed are representatives of black people in South Africa as a whole. To portray the issue of accents appropriately, the examination does often refer to language as a relatable concept. In the literature of this dissertation, there is ample support for the claim that language differences and disagreements in South Africa are due to the historical and socio-political stance of the European native. After examining the topic of power and social control, the study points out that the native is rarely in control of the interests of the European descendent. Thus, the relationship between the two is immediately assumed before it has even been established. For the purpose of this discussion, ambiguity is appreciated when intimacy between cultures evolves for the greater good. However, it is disregarded when individual voices are diluted into neutral or standard representations of a language. And so the act of reducing black South African accents in English to mirror that of the Euro-American culture robs the natives of their individuality and imprisons them into cultural assimilation. Ultimately, this study intends to identify different groups of black South Africans who speak English with accents. For clarity has divided into two separate groups namely privileged and unprivileged. Accents that are appreciated by white South African English speakers are considered to be privileged, while accents that carry the undertones of any mother-tongue language are recognised in this research study as unprivileged. The study wishes to present this phenomenon as a social issue that will negatively affect the growth of indigenous participation in performance spaces in the Western Cape which the study assumes as the context for the research. The implication of the study is to potentially eliminate issues of inferiority to those black South African accents that have been regarded as less valuable to dramatic performances in the Western Cape, to the extent that platforms of dramatic performances will broaden in order for black South African accents to be prioritised with relevant usage
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Seekoe, Leanetse Thato
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16397 , vital:40716
- Description: This dissertation examines the treatment and perceptions of black South African accents in English in the drama departments of specific institutions of higher learning in the Western Cape Province. The researcher is concerned with the handling of African native cultural identities in the curriculum policy of Drama Departments in higher education institutions in the Western Cape Province. Although the focus of the research is on the institutions that are based in the Western Cape Province, the subjects that are being discussed are representatives of black people in South Africa as a whole. To portray the issue of accents appropriately, the examination does often refer to language as a relatable concept. In the literature of this dissertation, there is ample support for the claim that language differences and disagreements in South Africa are due to the historical and socio-political stance of the European native. After examining the topic of power and social control, the study points out that the native is rarely in control of the interests of the European descendent. Thus, the relationship between the two is immediately assumed before it has even been established. For the purpose of this discussion, ambiguity is appreciated when intimacy between cultures evolves for the greater good. However, it is disregarded when individual voices are diluted into neutral or standard representations of a language. And so the act of reducing black South African accents in English to mirror that of the Euro-American culture robs the natives of their individuality and imprisons them into cultural assimilation. Ultimately, this study intends to identify different groups of black South Africans who speak English with accents. For clarity has divided into two separate groups namely privileged and unprivileged. Accents that are appreciated by white South African English speakers are considered to be privileged, while accents that carry the undertones of any mother-tongue language are recognised in this research study as unprivileged. The study wishes to present this phenomenon as a social issue that will negatively affect the growth of indigenous participation in performance spaces in the Western Cape which the study assumes as the context for the research. The implication of the study is to potentially eliminate issues of inferiority to those black South African accents that have been regarded as less valuable to dramatic performances in the Western Cape, to the extent that platforms of dramatic performances will broaden in order for black South African accents to be prioritised with relevant usage
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Examining the teaching of natural sciences concepts to English second language speakers in selected primary schools in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kumanda, Nomaroma
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15925 , vital:40564
- Description: The study sought to examine the teaching of Natural Sciences (NS) concepts to English second language speakers in selected primary schools. Grade 7 was chosen for the investigation as it precedes the last class at primary school. The researcher investigated the teaching and learning of Natural sciences concepts. A mixed method design was used. The research questions focused on the teaching of NS, learner-centred strategies used, challenges encountered, strategies employed by teachers when teaching NS, and the implications for science education.The purpose was to examine the teaching of Natural Sciences concepts to English second language speakers in selected primary schools in the East London Education District. Data were collected from grade 7 teachers and learners in selected township schools in East London, by means of semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and focus groups. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to teachers and learners, individual interviews were conducted with NS head of department, focus group and interviews were held with grade 7 NS learners. Quantitative and qualitative data were independently analysed and merged at the interpretation stage for triangulation of results. The questions were grouped according to their themes. The researcher’s findings revealed that teachers linked the teaching of NS concepts by showing the teaching skills. Teachers used code-switching for learners to understand the scientific concepts for positive attitude to improve the learner performance. Teachers experienced problems using English as a Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) while teaching NS concepts, teachers’ understanding of NS influenced their ability to implement of transformational curriculum, but learners did not benefit much when learning science in English Language and those policies were designed by the Department of Education without teacher involvement. The study concluded by noting that It emerged that teachers and learners experienced difficulties in teaching and learning of the NS concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kumanda, Nomaroma
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15925 , vital:40564
- Description: The study sought to examine the teaching of Natural Sciences (NS) concepts to English second language speakers in selected primary schools. Grade 7 was chosen for the investigation as it precedes the last class at primary school. The researcher investigated the teaching and learning of Natural sciences concepts. A mixed method design was used. The research questions focused on the teaching of NS, learner-centred strategies used, challenges encountered, strategies employed by teachers when teaching NS, and the implications for science education.The purpose was to examine the teaching of Natural Sciences concepts to English second language speakers in selected primary schools in the East London Education District. Data were collected from grade 7 teachers and learners in selected township schools in East London, by means of semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and focus groups. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to teachers and learners, individual interviews were conducted with NS head of department, focus group and interviews were held with grade 7 NS learners. Quantitative and qualitative data were independently analysed and merged at the interpretation stage for triangulation of results. The questions were grouped according to their themes. The researcher’s findings revealed that teachers linked the teaching of NS concepts by showing the teaching skills. Teachers used code-switching for learners to understand the scientific concepts for positive attitude to improve the learner performance. Teachers experienced problems using English as a Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) while teaching NS concepts, teachers’ understanding of NS influenced their ability to implement of transformational curriculum, but learners did not benefit much when learning science in English Language and those policies were designed by the Department of Education without teacher involvement. The study concluded by noting that It emerged that teachers and learners experienced difficulties in teaching and learning of the NS concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
experiences of female sex workers in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Gcina, Boniswa Letticia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Prostitutes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16730 , vital:40768
- Description: The phenomenon of female sex workers in South Africa is yet to be understood from both the cultural and legal perspectives. This gap leads to various challenges experienced by female sex workers in the country. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of female sex workers in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape Province. A descriptive phenomenological design was used to gain in-depth understanding and knowledge on the experiences of female sex workers’ in reality and social context. The study targeted female sex workers aged between 18-49 years for interviews. Purposive sampling technique was used to recruit female sex workers and four focus groups of five members in each group were interviewed to collect data. Due to the sensitivity of the research topic, ethical approvals were sought and granted by University of Fort Hare Research Ethics Committee and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Further, informed consent was obtained from study participants before data collection begun. Data analysis was done by using Tesch’ method steps. The findings indicated that in Buffalo City Metropolitan the female sex workers were experiencing human rights violation, stigma and discrimination, they were at risk of contracting HIV due to the nature of their work, and they were at risk of being in conflict with the law due to the nature of sex work in South Africa. The study recommends on the decriminalization of sex work in order to decrease rate of violence, rape and exploitation of female sex workers; the closure of all Illegal brothels as they promote drugs and substance abuse among this vulnerable group; and provision of counselling sessions for female sex workers by the Department of Social Welfare. The study concludes that peer educators training and embarking on campaigns in the community, media and social networks to promote ‘Anti-violence against sex workers’ is necessary. Therefore, the female sex workers need to be protected by police from any form of abuse and violence by the community, clients and pimps. This can address the psychological stress displayed by female sex workers in the studydomain
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gcina, Boniswa Letticia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Prostitutes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16730 , vital:40768
- Description: The phenomenon of female sex workers in South Africa is yet to be understood from both the cultural and legal perspectives. This gap leads to various challenges experienced by female sex workers in the country. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of female sex workers in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape Province. A descriptive phenomenological design was used to gain in-depth understanding and knowledge on the experiences of female sex workers’ in reality and social context. The study targeted female sex workers aged between 18-49 years for interviews. Purposive sampling technique was used to recruit female sex workers and four focus groups of five members in each group were interviewed to collect data. Due to the sensitivity of the research topic, ethical approvals were sought and granted by University of Fort Hare Research Ethics Committee and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Further, informed consent was obtained from study participants before data collection begun. Data analysis was done by using Tesch’ method steps. The findings indicated that in Buffalo City Metropolitan the female sex workers were experiencing human rights violation, stigma and discrimination, they were at risk of contracting HIV due to the nature of their work, and they were at risk of being in conflict with the law due to the nature of sex work in South Africa. The study recommends on the decriminalization of sex work in order to decrease rate of violence, rape and exploitation of female sex workers; the closure of all Illegal brothels as they promote drugs and substance abuse among this vulnerable group; and provision of counselling sessions for female sex workers by the Department of Social Welfare. The study concludes that peer educators training and embarking on campaigns in the community, media and social networks to promote ‘Anti-violence against sex workers’ is necessary. Therefore, the female sex workers need to be protected by police from any form of abuse and violence by the community, clients and pimps. This can address the psychological stress displayed by female sex workers in the studydomain
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Experiences of midwives regarding the use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain interventions in Lejweleputswa district in Free State
- Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Authors: Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Anesthesia in obstetrics , Labor (Obstetrics) , Pain -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27187 , vital:66387
- Description: Due to the disabling effects of severe labour pains, labour pain management remains an important topic in midwifery and needs to be reviewed more often. According to studies, various pain relief options, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, are available to help women cope with pain, but midwives did not employ these techniques adequately because of various experiences. Studies further indicate that, though the limited number of these techniques were employed they were not effective on some women. Thus, the purpose of this research study was to explore and describe midwives’ experiences on pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain management in the Lejweleputswa District of the Free State Province. This study employed a qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. The target population was midwives who work in the maternity wards of the institutions under study with three to five years’ experience in midwifery. Individual, face-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted; these were recorded for the researcher’s reference purposes, so as not to overlook important information. In addition, the researcher made use of field notes, recording in them what was heard, observed, felt, experienced, and thought during the interview. Ethical principles and trustworthiness were maintained throughout this study. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured throughout the interviews. The nine themes and 19 sub-themes that emerged during data analysis were discussed comprehensively. The findings indicate that midwives use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods in managing labour pain. Some methods are effective in relieving pain for certain mothers, while other methods proved ineffective. Midwives administer Pethidine and Phenergan as per doctors’ prescription; non-pharmacological methods, such as back massage, deep breathing exercises, mobilisation, and warm baths or showers are also employed. Midwives provide pharmacological methods to all women in labour, and routinely employ non-pharmacological methods. Although the midwives are willing to manage patients’ pain, they face certain challenges, such as shortage of staff, increased workload, as well as inadequate resources. This leads to inadequate provision of non-pharmacological care. In conclusion, the midwives’ experiences were that both pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques were used for all labouring women and they had relaxing and calming effects on some women, resulting to them giving birth with ease, although for some they were not effective. In addition, the pharmacological interventions caused drowsiness to some women and babies. The findings will provide evidence-based information to the Free State Department of Health in order to assist policymakers and stakeholders in initiating and developing appropriate policies, guidelines, and interventions that can improve labour pain management. The Free State Department of Health should consider using other opioids and non-opioids in managing labour pain to broaden the scope of pain relief methods available to the midwives. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Anesthesia in obstetrics , Labor (Obstetrics) , Pain -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27187 , vital:66387
- Description: Due to the disabling effects of severe labour pains, labour pain management remains an important topic in midwifery and needs to be reviewed more often. According to studies, various pain relief options, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, are available to help women cope with pain, but midwives did not employ these techniques adequately because of various experiences. Studies further indicate that, though the limited number of these techniques were employed they were not effective on some women. Thus, the purpose of this research study was to explore and describe midwives’ experiences on pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain management in the Lejweleputswa District of the Free State Province. This study employed a qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. The target population was midwives who work in the maternity wards of the institutions under study with three to five years’ experience in midwifery. Individual, face-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted; these were recorded for the researcher’s reference purposes, so as not to overlook important information. In addition, the researcher made use of field notes, recording in them what was heard, observed, felt, experienced, and thought during the interview. Ethical principles and trustworthiness were maintained throughout this study. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured throughout the interviews. The nine themes and 19 sub-themes that emerged during data analysis were discussed comprehensively. The findings indicate that midwives use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods in managing labour pain. Some methods are effective in relieving pain for certain mothers, while other methods proved ineffective. Midwives administer Pethidine and Phenergan as per doctors’ prescription; non-pharmacological methods, such as back massage, deep breathing exercises, mobilisation, and warm baths or showers are also employed. Midwives provide pharmacological methods to all women in labour, and routinely employ non-pharmacological methods. Although the midwives are willing to manage patients’ pain, they face certain challenges, such as shortage of staff, increased workload, as well as inadequate resources. This leads to inadequate provision of non-pharmacological care. In conclusion, the midwives’ experiences were that both pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques were used for all labouring women and they had relaxing and calming effects on some women, resulting to them giving birth with ease, although for some they were not effective. In addition, the pharmacological interventions caused drowsiness to some women and babies. The findings will provide evidence-based information to the Free State Department of Health in order to assist policymakers and stakeholders in initiating and developing appropriate policies, guidelines, and interventions that can improve labour pain management. The Free State Department of Health should consider using other opioids and non-opioids in managing labour pain to broaden the scope of pain relief methods available to the midwives. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring barriers to the legal adoption of orphaned and vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown
- Authors: Xabe, Koleka Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adoption , Orphans , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17597 , vital:41102
- Description: This study aimed at gaining insights into the barriers that prevent the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in East London and Queenstown. To this end, it examined the knowledge and understanding of amaXhosa people regarding adoption as a permanent placement option for children. The method of investigation was qualitative in nature, as this approach provides a deep description of the phenomenon under study; in this case, the barriers to the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown area. Individual interviews were conducted with twelve participants – ten females and two males. Interviewees were foster parents and temporary safe care home employees employed by the Department of Social Development in Queenstown. The study adopted the ‘Circle of Courage’ and the ecological theoretical frameworks. Individual interviews were tape recoded and the transcripts were subject to interpretive analysis according to the guidelines provided by Terre Blanche, Durrheim and Painter (2006). Interviews tended to focus largely on the matter of black children being raised by white parents, people in the same sex domestic relationship, investigated interviewee’s beliefs about adoption within different cultures and its impact on the adoptee. The study also investigated the availability and accessibility of adoption awareness campaigns in their community. The responses of the participants were based on their own experiences, attitudes and external social worker’s report which attained along the process of caring for the (orphan and vulnerable children) OVC’s. The qualitative analysis of the research displays there are various reasons that leads to the decision for not to consider adoption as a placement option for orphan and vulnerable children among the AmaXhosa families. The findings showed that; reasons were both financial constraints, lack of time, race and culture. Despite their decisions and lack of resources, some of the parents appeared to be interested in the option only if they can be provided with support by government. It is evident that the permanent placement (adoption) is the only placement option that can X provide a child with legal rights to a family and award a parent with legal responsibility to a child.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Xabe, Koleka Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adoption , Orphans , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17597 , vital:41102
- Description: This study aimed at gaining insights into the barriers that prevent the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in East London and Queenstown. To this end, it examined the knowledge and understanding of amaXhosa people regarding adoption as a permanent placement option for children. The method of investigation was qualitative in nature, as this approach provides a deep description of the phenomenon under study; in this case, the barriers to the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown area. Individual interviews were conducted with twelve participants – ten females and two males. Interviewees were foster parents and temporary safe care home employees employed by the Department of Social Development in Queenstown. The study adopted the ‘Circle of Courage’ and the ecological theoretical frameworks. Individual interviews were tape recoded and the transcripts were subject to interpretive analysis according to the guidelines provided by Terre Blanche, Durrheim and Painter (2006). Interviews tended to focus largely on the matter of black children being raised by white parents, people in the same sex domestic relationship, investigated interviewee’s beliefs about adoption within different cultures and its impact on the adoptee. The study also investigated the availability and accessibility of adoption awareness campaigns in their community. The responses of the participants were based on their own experiences, attitudes and external social worker’s report which attained along the process of caring for the (orphan and vulnerable children) OVC’s. The qualitative analysis of the research displays there are various reasons that leads to the decision for not to consider adoption as a placement option for orphan and vulnerable children among the AmaXhosa families. The findings showed that; reasons were both financial constraints, lack of time, race and culture. Despite their decisions and lack of resources, some of the parents appeared to be interested in the option only if they can be provided with support by government. It is evident that the permanent placement (adoption) is the only placement option that can X provide a child with legal rights to a family and award a parent with legal responsibility to a child.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring how millennials prepare their content for social media: a narrative study of online users
- Authors: Coleman, Robyn-Ann
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Generation Y
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17542 , vital:41089
- Description: Millennials, (born between 1982 to 1996) referred to as ‘techno savvy’, are the largest and most highly educated generational cohort in this time. Introduced to technology early on in their lives has lead to a prolific use of social media. As possible future leaders, millennials also have the highest employment turnaround. The increased turnaround is because millennials are always on the lookout for better opportunities and purpose to meet their need for accelerated growth together with their need to belong. Social media platforms have the propensity to provide instantaneous and gratifying rewards, through various ways including self disclosure online. As millennials are seeking purpose and reward, communicating on a social media platform is way more rewarding than attempting to communicate. With the arena of face to face communication shifting to online communication this is becoming more amplified. This research study explored how millennials prepared to portray their content on Facebook and Instagram. A biographical narrative approach effectively acquired 15 individual millennials in-depth co-constructed narratives on how they prepare their online social media, and analysed through contexualising the co-constructed into a re-storied narrative with Connelly & Clandinin’s (2009) narrative analysis approach. Goffman’s dramaturgical approach, a conceptual framework based on micro social interaction was used to obtain insight into millennials online portrayal. The findings revealed that all of the participants utilised one or more of the following dramaturgical metaphors to portray themselves; a) they utilised props and /or filters to set the environment and filter their image online, b) they managed their impressions by being intentional in the selection of their images, and c) by intentionally selecting images or messages that portray roles their audience would affirm them for. The findings of this study highlights and provides insight in millennials’ preoccupation, distraction and portrayal online, which feeds into their need to be seen in a positive light and be affirmed. These findings provide social workers with new insight and perspective into millennials unspoken rich indepth narratives when millennials portray themselves online
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Coleman, Robyn-Ann
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Generation Y
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17542 , vital:41089
- Description: Millennials, (born between 1982 to 1996) referred to as ‘techno savvy’, are the largest and most highly educated generational cohort in this time. Introduced to technology early on in their lives has lead to a prolific use of social media. As possible future leaders, millennials also have the highest employment turnaround. The increased turnaround is because millennials are always on the lookout for better opportunities and purpose to meet their need for accelerated growth together with their need to belong. Social media platforms have the propensity to provide instantaneous and gratifying rewards, through various ways including self disclosure online. As millennials are seeking purpose and reward, communicating on a social media platform is way more rewarding than attempting to communicate. With the arena of face to face communication shifting to online communication this is becoming more amplified. This research study explored how millennials prepared to portray their content on Facebook and Instagram. A biographical narrative approach effectively acquired 15 individual millennials in-depth co-constructed narratives on how they prepare their online social media, and analysed through contexualising the co-constructed into a re-storied narrative with Connelly & Clandinin’s (2009) narrative analysis approach. Goffman’s dramaturgical approach, a conceptual framework based on micro social interaction was used to obtain insight into millennials online portrayal. The findings revealed that all of the participants utilised one or more of the following dramaturgical metaphors to portray themselves; a) they utilised props and /or filters to set the environment and filter their image online, b) they managed their impressions by being intentional in the selection of their images, and c) by intentionally selecting images or messages that portray roles their audience would affirm them for. The findings of this study highlights and provides insight in millennials’ preoccupation, distraction and portrayal online, which feeds into their need to be seen in a positive light and be affirmed. These findings provide social workers with new insight and perspective into millennials unspoken rich indepth narratives when millennials portray themselves online
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring the interplay of sociolinguistic factors in the teaching of esl at secondary school level in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Jhamba , Duren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Sociolinguistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15770 , vital:40522
- Description: The researcher noted that earlier second language teaching models tended to treat language as an artefact to be scrutinised and adhered to with grammatical precision. This tended to reduce all language learning to the mere acquisition of grammatical skills. However, since all language behaviour is embedded in sociocultural and contextual frameworks, all teaching should provide cross-cultural awareness of that complexity as well as of the internal variation within language. Therefore, the research explored the interplay of sociolinguistic factors in the teaching of English in Zimbabwe. The Mixed Methods design; a combination of the descriptive survey and the case study was adopted. The questionnaire, interview, observation and document analysis methods were used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data to assess the role of sociolinguistic factors in second language teaching pedagogy. A combination of convenient sampling and stratified random sampling was used to come up with a sample representative of the school categories and the gender of teachers in the 38 secondary schools in Gweru District. The data for the research was collected from a random sample of 50 teachers. The data analysis supported the need for a reconceptualisation of ESL teaching in Zimbabwe. Notably, language teaching tended to be exam-centric, unimaginative and not well linked to the needs of the learners in the communicative environment outside the school. This confirmed the initial observation that the secondary school graduates generally lacked sociolinguistic competence skills. The teachers were, however generally not motivated to include culture and sociolinguistics in their teaching. The research therefore recommended a revisit of the 7 | Page allowance for the interplay of sociolinguistic factors at all the planning stages of the ESL curriculum; the status, corpus and acquisition stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Jhamba , Duren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Sociolinguistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15770 , vital:40522
- Description: The researcher noted that earlier second language teaching models tended to treat language as an artefact to be scrutinised and adhered to with grammatical precision. This tended to reduce all language learning to the mere acquisition of grammatical skills. However, since all language behaviour is embedded in sociocultural and contextual frameworks, all teaching should provide cross-cultural awareness of that complexity as well as of the internal variation within language. Therefore, the research explored the interplay of sociolinguistic factors in the teaching of English in Zimbabwe. The Mixed Methods design; a combination of the descriptive survey and the case study was adopted. The questionnaire, interview, observation and document analysis methods were used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data to assess the role of sociolinguistic factors in second language teaching pedagogy. A combination of convenient sampling and stratified random sampling was used to come up with a sample representative of the school categories and the gender of teachers in the 38 secondary schools in Gweru District. The data for the research was collected from a random sample of 50 teachers. The data analysis supported the need for a reconceptualisation of ESL teaching in Zimbabwe. Notably, language teaching tended to be exam-centric, unimaginative and not well linked to the needs of the learners in the communicative environment outside the school. This confirmed the initial observation that the secondary school graduates generally lacked sociolinguistic competence skills. The teachers were, however generally not motivated to include culture and sociolinguistics in their teaching. The research therefore recommended a revisit of the 7 | Page allowance for the interplay of sociolinguistic factors at all the planning stages of the ESL curriculum; the status, corpus and acquisition stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring the underpinning factors that contribute to the involvement of children in criminal behaviour: A case of King William’s Town”
- Authors: Mbomvana, Anelisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: juvenile delinquency Parent and child
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16220 , vital:40700
- Description: Crime, in its daily occurrence, makes everyone a victim; whether of primary, secondary or of tertiary victimization, which has connotations of either direct or indirect victimization. It affects everyone and every sector. The involvement and the perpetration of crime by children, owing to a number of social dynamics, has serious implications and repercussions on children and how they later on conduct themselves. The aim of the study was to explore the factors that underpin criminal behaviour in children. The qualitative research method was adopted in the study and it informed the data collection and analysis processes of the study. Interviews and a focus group discussions were, therefore used to gain insight into the experiences of the participants. Through the use of purposive sampling, thirty five (35) participants comprising key and focus participants who were children in conflict with the law, their parents, the community members, social workers, probation officers and youth care workers from a certain Child and Youth Care Rehabilitation centre in King William’s Town were selected. The findings revealed that it was a variety of multi-factorial components that influenced criminal behaviour in children, and amongst those were individual, family, community and school factors. However, it was found that the impact of these detrimental factors identified was not comparable to the impact of the parent in the life of a child. The propensity and the extent to which these factors can affect a child was found as less probable where strong relationships were maintained between the parents and their children. This further implies that nurture was found to be very pivotal, as the role of the parents and of family support were found to be the most significant in children. Single parenting, father absence, undisclosed paternal identities, parental ignorance, poor parenting, and divorce were issues that emerged and were indicated in the study to be potentially harmful in the lives of children. A strong correlation was found between ignorant parenting and ill behavior in children as it was also found that parental conduct was very important as it defined the family’s wellbeing. A corresponding relationship was also established between dropping out of school and crime due to the fact that an overwhelming number of child offenders who participated in the study had dropped out of school. It was v further concluded that in spite of the social work profession’s adoption of the developmental approach, the propensity and timing the interventions took place was compared to those of the residual approach wherein the welfare system intervened as a measure of last resort. The study recommends that emphasis needs to be stressed on family based programmes in order to protect and secure the spontaneous growth of children
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mbomvana, Anelisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: juvenile delinquency Parent and child
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16220 , vital:40700
- Description: Crime, in its daily occurrence, makes everyone a victim; whether of primary, secondary or of tertiary victimization, which has connotations of either direct or indirect victimization. It affects everyone and every sector. The involvement and the perpetration of crime by children, owing to a number of social dynamics, has serious implications and repercussions on children and how they later on conduct themselves. The aim of the study was to explore the factors that underpin criminal behaviour in children. The qualitative research method was adopted in the study and it informed the data collection and analysis processes of the study. Interviews and a focus group discussions were, therefore used to gain insight into the experiences of the participants. Through the use of purposive sampling, thirty five (35) participants comprising key and focus participants who were children in conflict with the law, their parents, the community members, social workers, probation officers and youth care workers from a certain Child and Youth Care Rehabilitation centre in King William’s Town were selected. The findings revealed that it was a variety of multi-factorial components that influenced criminal behaviour in children, and amongst those were individual, family, community and school factors. However, it was found that the impact of these detrimental factors identified was not comparable to the impact of the parent in the life of a child. The propensity and the extent to which these factors can affect a child was found as less probable where strong relationships were maintained between the parents and their children. This further implies that nurture was found to be very pivotal, as the role of the parents and of family support were found to be the most significant in children. Single parenting, father absence, undisclosed paternal identities, parental ignorance, poor parenting, and divorce were issues that emerged and were indicated in the study to be potentially harmful in the lives of children. A strong correlation was found between ignorant parenting and ill behavior in children as it was also found that parental conduct was very important as it defined the family’s wellbeing. A corresponding relationship was also established between dropping out of school and crime due to the fact that an overwhelming number of child offenders who participated in the study had dropped out of school. It was v further concluded that in spite of the social work profession’s adoption of the developmental approach, the propensity and timing the interventions took place was compared to those of the residual approach wherein the welfare system intervened as a measure of last resort. The study recommends that emphasis needs to be stressed on family based programmes in order to protect and secure the spontaneous growth of children
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Extraction, isolation and characterization of oleanolic acid and its analogues from Syzygium aromaticum (cloves) and evaluation of their biological activities
- Authors: khwaza, Vuyolwethu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antibacterial agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19076 , vital:39882
- Description: Pathogenic microorganisms have serious impact on people's lives. Every year, millions of people around the world die of bacterial infections. Resistance to common antibacterial drugs has proven to be a challenging problem in control of bacterial infections. In an attempt to develop an effective and affordable treatment for bacterial infections, oleanolic acid isolated from syzygium aromaticum conjugates incorporating other pharmaceutical scaffolds such as chloroquine derivatives, curcumin, and ergocalciferol etc have been developed. Based on the previous successes of testing combination of antimicrobial drugs and pharmaceutical drugs which appeared to be the promising strategy to overcome treatment failure; a series of hybrid compounds containing oleanolic acid and other pharmaceutical scaffolds were synthesized. 4- Aminoquinoline derivatives were first hybridized with selected organic compounds to form a class of hybrid compounds containing either amide bond or ester bond as a linker between the precursor molecules. Analogues/hybrid compounds can overcome the disadvantages of combination therapy such as drug-drug interaction. The structural effects of this type of conjugation of oleanolic acid and other pharmaceutical scaffolds were characterised by FTIR, Mass Spec and NMR spectroscopy. These compounds were studied along with the monosubstituted oleanolic acid analogues and the organic components in order to compare the effects of the substitution on their biological response.‖ All the synthesized analogues were tested against 11 bacterial strains on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The synthesized compounds showed selectivity and higher activity against Enterococcus faecalis (EF), Klebsiella oxytoca (KO), Escherischia coli (EC), Staphylococcus aureous (SA), Proteus vulgaris (PV) and Bacillus subtilis (BS) with MIC values; ranging between of 1.25 mg/mL to 0.072 mg/mL
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: khwaza, Vuyolwethu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antibacterial agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19076 , vital:39882
- Description: Pathogenic microorganisms have serious impact on people's lives. Every year, millions of people around the world die of bacterial infections. Resistance to common antibacterial drugs has proven to be a challenging problem in control of bacterial infections. In an attempt to develop an effective and affordable treatment for bacterial infections, oleanolic acid isolated from syzygium aromaticum conjugates incorporating other pharmaceutical scaffolds such as chloroquine derivatives, curcumin, and ergocalciferol etc have been developed. Based on the previous successes of testing combination of antimicrobial drugs and pharmaceutical drugs which appeared to be the promising strategy to overcome treatment failure; a series of hybrid compounds containing oleanolic acid and other pharmaceutical scaffolds were synthesized. 4- Aminoquinoline derivatives were first hybridized with selected organic compounds to form a class of hybrid compounds containing either amide bond or ester bond as a linker between the precursor molecules. Analogues/hybrid compounds can overcome the disadvantages of combination therapy such as drug-drug interaction. The structural effects of this type of conjugation of oleanolic acid and other pharmaceutical scaffolds were characterised by FTIR, Mass Spec and NMR spectroscopy. These compounds were studied along with the monosubstituted oleanolic acid analogues and the organic components in order to compare the effects of the substitution on their biological response.‖ All the synthesized analogues were tested against 11 bacterial strains on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The synthesized compounds showed selectivity and higher activity against Enterococcus faecalis (EF), Klebsiella oxytoca (KO), Escherischia coli (EC), Staphylococcus aureous (SA), Proteus vulgaris (PV) and Bacillus subtilis (BS) with MIC values; ranging between of 1.25 mg/mL to 0.072 mg/mL
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting female condom use in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Bunu, Nosipho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Condom use -- South Africa Sexually transmitted diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12959 , vital:39411
- Description: Introduction: The female condom was introduced so many years after the male condom was introduced as an additional intervention to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the factors affecting female condom use in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape. Method: Quantitative descriptive and contextual research designs were used to enable the researcher to gain knowledge and insights on female condom use. The population of the study was sexually active women between ages of 15-49 years, living in Reeston community of Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. Convenient sampling was used to recruit the respondents with 599-sample size and data was collected using questionnaires. Ethical considerations were considered throughout the study. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 22) and summarised using tables, graphs and descriptive statistics. Results: The findings of the study were minimal use of female condom because of poor marketing strategies towards female condoms despite the government intervention. The attitude of sexually active women towards female condom was positive, but minimal knowledge, inaccessibility and unavailability of female condoms hinder its use. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study recommended health education through campaigns and counselling about female condom use and their benefits to all age groups of women who are sexually active. The government and stakeholders should promote the condom uptake, accessibility and availability in every public place. Department of Health, Education should have empowered the community at large on how to promote female condom use and improve the distribution of both male/ female condoms to schools and public place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bunu, Nosipho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Condom use -- South Africa Sexually transmitted diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12959 , vital:39411
- Description: Introduction: The female condom was introduced so many years after the male condom was introduced as an additional intervention to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the factors affecting female condom use in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape. Method: Quantitative descriptive and contextual research designs were used to enable the researcher to gain knowledge and insights on female condom use. The population of the study was sexually active women between ages of 15-49 years, living in Reeston community of Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. Convenient sampling was used to recruit the respondents with 599-sample size and data was collected using questionnaires. Ethical considerations were considered throughout the study. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 22) and summarised using tables, graphs and descriptive statistics. Results: The findings of the study were minimal use of female condom because of poor marketing strategies towards female condoms despite the government intervention. The attitude of sexually active women towards female condom was positive, but minimal knowledge, inaccessibility and unavailability of female condoms hinder its use. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study recommended health education through campaigns and counselling about female condom use and their benefits to all age groups of women who are sexually active. The government and stakeholders should promote the condom uptake, accessibility and availability in every public place. Department of Health, Education should have empowered the community at large on how to promote female condom use and improve the distribution of both male/ female condoms to schools and public place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in Mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15935 , vital:40565
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and forty-five (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in Mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15935 , vital:40565
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and forty-five (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary) Mathematics teachers Education, Primary
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12837 , vital:39383
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and fortyfive (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary) Mathematics teachers Education, Primary
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12837 , vital:39383
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and fortyfive (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at Grade 5. A case of three primary schools in the Cookhouse and Somerset East area.
- Authors: Snyers, Jonathan Marsel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Books and reading English language -- Rhetoric
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16342 , vital:40711
- Description: This study investigated the factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at grade 5 level in the Cookhouse and Somerset area. The sample consisted of 3 teachers, 3 principals, 18 learners and 3 SGB chairpersons from three different schools. The study focused on three primary schools in the Blue Crane District, which were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Qualitative research was chosen as the research method with a case study as the research design. Data collection instruments consisted of unstandardized in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documents. Interviews were conducted with the teachers, principals and the chairpersons of the respective schools. The focus group discussions were conducted with learners. In this study, the researcher has analysed data systematically whereby he built through recording procedures during interviews and focus group discussions. The findings highlighted factors, which cause learners’ reading problems. The factors include various physical factors, emotional factors, and little attention to reading skills, lack of motivation, insufficient reading time and material. Educators were of the view that repeated curriculum changes within a short period of time without proper training of educators has an effect on learners’ reading performance. The study revealed that reading is adversely affected by the poor learning conditions in which learners find themselves in because there was a strong relationship between socio-economic factors and reading ability. On that account, the implication is that reading will not improve. The study recommends that the Department of Education pay more attention to pre-service and in-service training of educators so that educators are more knowledgeable in all reading components.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Snyers, Jonathan Marsel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Books and reading English language -- Rhetoric
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16342 , vital:40711
- Description: This study investigated the factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at grade 5 level in the Cookhouse and Somerset area. The sample consisted of 3 teachers, 3 principals, 18 learners and 3 SGB chairpersons from three different schools. The study focused on three primary schools in the Blue Crane District, which were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Qualitative research was chosen as the research method with a case study as the research design. Data collection instruments consisted of unstandardized in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documents. Interviews were conducted with the teachers, principals and the chairpersons of the respective schools. The focus group discussions were conducted with learners. In this study, the researcher has analysed data systematically whereby he built through recording procedures during interviews and focus group discussions. The findings highlighted factors, which cause learners’ reading problems. The factors include various physical factors, emotional factors, and little attention to reading skills, lack of motivation, insufficient reading time and material. Educators were of the view that repeated curriculum changes within a short period of time without proper training of educators has an effect on learners’ reading performance. The study revealed that reading is adversely affected by the poor learning conditions in which learners find themselves in because there was a strong relationship between socio-economic factors and reading ability. On that account, the implication is that reading will not improve. The study recommends that the Department of Education pay more attention to pre-service and in-service training of educators so that educators are more knowledgeable in all reading components.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors to improve data quality of electronic medical records
- Authors: Makeleni, Noloyiso Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic records , Medical records -- Management , Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19881 , vital:43618
- Description: Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems have been identified as having the potential to improve health care and allow the health care sector to reap a number of benefits when implemented successfully. These benefits include enabling quick and easy access to patient files and also reducing the problem of misplaced or lost patient files. Such EMRs allow for patient records to be up to date, provided that health care practitioners capture standard and consistent data in the relevant fields. In Africa, there are only a few countries that have successfully implemented EMR systems due to social and technological challenges. Social factors include lack of computer skilled health workers, lack of adequate training, physician’s resistance to shift from using paper records to electronic records, either due to complex systems or the fear of being replaced by the systems. On the other hand, the technological factors include lack of Information Technology (IT) and clinical resources, lack of internet access, financial barriers to purchase the necessary technological hardware and implementation costs. A few South African health care institutions have implemented EMR systems, however, most of the public health care facilities still make use of a manual system to capture patient information. In the case where public health care facilities do have an EMR system implemented, there are problems with the consistency of the data that is captured. The inconsistency is caused by the different understandings that the health care professionals have regarding the importance of capturing the necessary information that is collected at various points in health care institutions, thus affecting data quality. For the successful implementation and use of EMR systems, everything within the health care organisation should be integrated. In other words, the steering committee and workgroup, the equipment, the product, the processes, the system and the facility design and construction should be incorporated to work together. The common problems identified in literature regarding data quality in EMRs include misspelled words, inconsistent word strings, inaccurate information entered on the record and incompleteness of the record. These problems lead to poor quality information, lack of accessibility of the record, poorly organised notes and inaccurate information about the patient. The South African strategy aims to implement a National Health Insurance (NHI) which will provide citizens with equitable access to health care. For the successful implementation of the NHI strategy, South African health care sectors should address the barriers which were identified and learn from other African countries that have successfully implemented EMR systems and had positive outcomes. Therefore, this study investigates how data quality can be improved on electronic medical records in public health care in South Africa? The qualitative research methodology approach was used for this study. Interviews were conducted with eight health care professionals at Klerksdorp, in the North West province to obtain data regarding the factors they would deem important for the improvement of data quality in EMRs. The Data Quality Framework (DQF) was applied in this study and six dimensions were identified as the factors to improve data quality. These dimensions include completeness, accuracy, consistency, conformity, timeliness, and integrity. From the analysis of the interview responses, it was discovered that there were, in fact, data quality issues experienced at the public health care facilities of South Africa. A need was identified for the use of data quality assessment tools and solutions to address the data quality issues or challenges that health care practitioners are faced with during their daily jobs. Seven barriers were also identified as having an impact on the successful implementation of EMRs at health care institutions. These barriers, together with the data quality issues, influence the successful use of EMRs and should not be overlooked. From these barriers the study developed seven Critical Success Factors which can be used by the National Department of Health to improve the quality of EMRs. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Makeleni, Noloyiso Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic records , Medical records -- Management , Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19881 , vital:43618
- Description: Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems have been identified as having the potential to improve health care and allow the health care sector to reap a number of benefits when implemented successfully. These benefits include enabling quick and easy access to patient files and also reducing the problem of misplaced or lost patient files. Such EMRs allow for patient records to be up to date, provided that health care practitioners capture standard and consistent data in the relevant fields. In Africa, there are only a few countries that have successfully implemented EMR systems due to social and technological challenges. Social factors include lack of computer skilled health workers, lack of adequate training, physician’s resistance to shift from using paper records to electronic records, either due to complex systems or the fear of being replaced by the systems. On the other hand, the technological factors include lack of Information Technology (IT) and clinical resources, lack of internet access, financial barriers to purchase the necessary technological hardware and implementation costs. A few South African health care institutions have implemented EMR systems, however, most of the public health care facilities still make use of a manual system to capture patient information. In the case where public health care facilities do have an EMR system implemented, there are problems with the consistency of the data that is captured. The inconsistency is caused by the different understandings that the health care professionals have regarding the importance of capturing the necessary information that is collected at various points in health care institutions, thus affecting data quality. For the successful implementation and use of EMR systems, everything within the health care organisation should be integrated. In other words, the steering committee and workgroup, the equipment, the product, the processes, the system and the facility design and construction should be incorporated to work together. The common problems identified in literature regarding data quality in EMRs include misspelled words, inconsistent word strings, inaccurate information entered on the record and incompleteness of the record. These problems lead to poor quality information, lack of accessibility of the record, poorly organised notes and inaccurate information about the patient. The South African strategy aims to implement a National Health Insurance (NHI) which will provide citizens with equitable access to health care. For the successful implementation of the NHI strategy, South African health care sectors should address the barriers which were identified and learn from other African countries that have successfully implemented EMR systems and had positive outcomes. Therefore, this study investigates how data quality can be improved on electronic medical records in public health care in South Africa? The qualitative research methodology approach was used for this study. Interviews were conducted with eight health care professionals at Klerksdorp, in the North West province to obtain data regarding the factors they would deem important for the improvement of data quality in EMRs. The Data Quality Framework (DQF) was applied in this study and six dimensions were identified as the factors to improve data quality. These dimensions include completeness, accuracy, consistency, conformity, timeliness, and integrity. From the analysis of the interview responses, it was discovered that there were, in fact, data quality issues experienced at the public health care facilities of South Africa. A need was identified for the use of data quality assessment tools and solutions to address the data quality issues or challenges that health care practitioners are faced with during their daily jobs. Seven barriers were also identified as having an impact on the successful implementation of EMRs at health care institutions. These barriers, together with the data quality issues, influence the successful use of EMRs and should not be overlooked. From these barriers the study developed seven Critical Success Factors which can be used by the National Department of Health to improve the quality of EMRs. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Financial development, income inequality and poverty: case of a selected SADC countries
- Authors: Leve, Samkele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance Economic development Income distribution
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16918 , vital:40785
- Description: The financial sector plays a pivotal role in an economy of a country; hence the importance of financial development cannot be underestimated. Financial development is widely regarded as another conduit through which income inequality and poverty can be alleviated, however both theoretical and empirical literature does not reach consensus on the effect of financial development on income inequality and poverty. Against this background, the study empirically examines the effect of financial development on income inequality and poverty in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, employing the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2011. Based on the inequalitydecreasing and Mckinnon Conduit effect, two models which link financial sector development and inequality and financial sector development and poverty were estimated using five different dimensions of financial development. Empirical results revealed that financial development overall does have an impact on income inequality and poverty in the selected SADC countries. An interesting observation from the empirical results is that the actual dimension of financial development plays a significant role in determining the relationship between financial development, income inequality and poverty in the SADC region. The impact of financial depth on poverty is not obvious in the study, depending on the variable used. On the relationship between financial system stability, income inequality and poverty, results reveal that a stable financial system is beneficial to the poor. Financial efficiency does not appear to have a significant role in reducing income inequality and poverty in the selected SADC countries. Overall, the findings from the study indicate that financial access or financial inclusion and financial stability is what reduces poverty instead of mere financial sector development at a broader level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Leve, Samkele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance Economic development Income distribution
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16918 , vital:40785
- Description: The financial sector plays a pivotal role in an economy of a country; hence the importance of financial development cannot be underestimated. Financial development is widely regarded as another conduit through which income inequality and poverty can be alleviated, however both theoretical and empirical literature does not reach consensus on the effect of financial development on income inequality and poverty. Against this background, the study empirically examines the effect of financial development on income inequality and poverty in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, employing the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2011. Based on the inequalitydecreasing and Mckinnon Conduit effect, two models which link financial sector development and inequality and financial sector development and poverty were estimated using five different dimensions of financial development. Empirical results revealed that financial development overall does have an impact on income inequality and poverty in the selected SADC countries. An interesting observation from the empirical results is that the actual dimension of financial development plays a significant role in determining the relationship between financial development, income inequality and poverty in the SADC region. The impact of financial depth on poverty is not obvious in the study, depending on the variable used. On the relationship between financial system stability, income inequality and poverty, results reveal that a stable financial system is beneficial to the poor. Financial efficiency does not appear to have a significant role in reducing income inequality and poverty in the selected SADC countries. Overall, the findings from the study indicate that financial access or financial inclusion and financial stability is what reduces poverty instead of mere financial sector development at a broader level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Gender differences and online shopping decisions of consumers in South Africa
- Authors: Mqulo, Thandokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16952 , vital:40788
- Description: Online shopping has emerged as one of the most convenient ways of shopping in both emerging and advanced economies. In South Africa, it has received much attention due to its unique way of satisfying both the rural and urban populations. Online shopping is growing and carries great potential of contributing to a country and/or local areas’ economy and development. The primary aim of the study was to analyse the differences of online shopping between males and females in South Africa. The main objective of this study is to determine if there are significant differences between male and female online shoppers in South Africa. The study is motivated by the literature gap that exists on the online shopping discourse, in that there are few published studies on the online shopping differences between males and females in South Africa. Therefore, there is a lack of information on the importance of online shopping activities on promoting convenience for shoppers in these busy times that people live in. A quantitative approach was used to analyse the data that were collected using a questionnaire. Data was collected from a sample of 377 people who are online shoppers in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Simple random sampling was utilised for this study. The results showed that there is a significant difference between males and females online shopping patterns as determined by specific variables mentioned in this study. Their study had findings on research hypothesis of attitude towards online shopping, the difference in the usefulness of media on online websites, perceived ease of use of online websites, intrinsic enjoyment, perceived risk and trust towards online shopping. The implications of this study unpack and provides discussion on empirical evidence drawn from the study’s statistical results. The implications are presented in a way which explains how the results of this study affect theoretical dimensions of the studied phenomenon, online shoppers and the retail industry. There is a need for more research in this environment and this research study will stimulate further studies in the online shopping environment. Future research may focus on the development of a customer satisfaction scale that uses service quality items in the retail industry, to gather data about what satisfies customers in the retail context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mqulo, Thandokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16952 , vital:40788
- Description: Online shopping has emerged as one of the most convenient ways of shopping in both emerging and advanced economies. In South Africa, it has received much attention due to its unique way of satisfying both the rural and urban populations. Online shopping is growing and carries great potential of contributing to a country and/or local areas’ economy and development. The primary aim of the study was to analyse the differences of online shopping between males and females in South Africa. The main objective of this study is to determine if there are significant differences between male and female online shoppers in South Africa. The study is motivated by the literature gap that exists on the online shopping discourse, in that there are few published studies on the online shopping differences between males and females in South Africa. Therefore, there is a lack of information on the importance of online shopping activities on promoting convenience for shoppers in these busy times that people live in. A quantitative approach was used to analyse the data that were collected using a questionnaire. Data was collected from a sample of 377 people who are online shoppers in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Simple random sampling was utilised for this study. The results showed that there is a significant difference between males and females online shopping patterns as determined by specific variables mentioned in this study. Their study had findings on research hypothesis of attitude towards online shopping, the difference in the usefulness of media on online websites, perceived ease of use of online websites, intrinsic enjoyment, perceived risk and trust towards online shopping. The implications of this study unpack and provides discussion on empirical evidence drawn from the study’s statistical results. The implications are presented in a way which explains how the results of this study affect theoretical dimensions of the studied phenomenon, online shoppers and the retail industry. There is a need for more research in this environment and this research study will stimulate further studies in the online shopping environment. Future research may focus on the development of a customer satisfaction scale that uses service quality items in the retail industry, to gather data about what satisfies customers in the retail context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Genetic characteristics of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1, and deter-minants of late presentation for care and Diabetes mellitus amongst newly diagnosed Human Immunodeficiency Virus positive patients in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Authors: Sogbanmu, Olufunso Oladipo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:40495
- Description: Phylogenies may help to characterize transmission pairs, enhance contact tracing and outbreak investigations, track the origin and spread of epidemics over place and time, and to identify patterns of onward Human Immunodeficiency-Virus (HIV) transmission among risk groups. If the pattern and evolution of HIV drug resistance can be mapped, this may influence the development of guidelines in the clinical management of HIV especially with issues relating to prevalence of primary drug resistance and its impact on outcomes of present antiretroviral treatment (ART) regimen in use and the ability to trace and track the development of drug resistant strains. The roll-out of the test and treat Programme for newly diagnosed HIV infected pa-tient, seeks to identify HIV infected individuals early and to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with the late presentation for HIV care. The determination of the magnitude of ‘late presentation’ and or ‘presentation with advanced HIV disease’ can be used in very diverse settings and for many purposes. It provides a unified way to define the problem, thereby targeting appropriate interventions to prevent the detrimental outcomes associated with late presentation to care. The subtle relationship between HIV and diabetes mellitus (DM) may also help in formulating better preventive programs to aid the control of non-communicable diseases such as DM. This cross-sectional study includes a purposive selection of 335 HIV positive patients attending the voluntary counselling and Testing (VCT) and HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) centres and outpatient departments at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital and the HCT sites at the Buffalo District municipality community health centres, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Late or delayed presentation of HIV infection was defined as CD4 cell count beneath 350 cells/μL and/or patients presenting with an AIDS-defining event at the first follow-up regardless of the CD4 cell count. Chapter 1 provides the general introduction had an overview of the introduction to the study, the statement of the research problem, hypothesis, the aim and the objectives. xx Chapter 2 looked in-depth at the HIV, case definition, the latest epidemiology of HIV, the HIV genome, the life cycle of HIV, its diagnosis, the classes of antiretroviral drugs, development of drug resistance. Chapter 3 highlighted the prevalence of Transmitted Drug Resistance (TDR) with focus on the protease gene. RNA was extracted from blood samples of 72 newly diagnosed HIV-1 patients attending some HIV testing and counselling clinics from August 2016 to July 2017. Protease fragments were amplified with specific primers by RT-PCR followed by nested PCR. The amplified products were sequenced using the ABI 360 sequencer, edited with Geneious version 9.1.5 and translated into amino acid with BioEdit software. Drug related resistance mutation (DRMs) analysis was performed on all the protease sequences in accordance with the 2009 WHO list of surveillance drug resistance mutations by submitting the edited sequences to Stanford HIV drug interpretation programme and the international AIDS society-USA guidelines for query of drug resistance associated mutations while phylogenetic analysis was performed using MEGA 6 to allocate all viral sequences into subtypes. In the study, a total of 52/72 (71.1%) reliable HIV-1 protease sequences were obtained in which subtyping and drug resistance mutations were performed. Two (3.8%) major Protease resistance associated mutation (V82A/L and L90M) were observed while another polymorphism like L10F, T74S, Q58E, L10I/V and M46V were also identified. Phylogenetic analyses delineated all the sequences as HIV-1 subtype C. Chapter 4 describes the prevalence and the determinants of late presentation amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals in the Eastern Cape. It indicates the extent of the prevalence of patients presenting to care and at what HIV stage they were assessing health care services since the inception of the ‘test and treat’ strategy. It is a cross-sectional study where a total of 335 newly diagnosed patients were recruited consecutively be-tween August 2016 and July 2017. Late presenter for HIV care was defined in accordance with the European Late Presenter Consensus working group as a patient who reports for care when the CD4 count is below 350 cells/μL and/or when there is an established Aids- xxi defining clinical condition, irrespective of CD4 count. Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analysis was used to examine the determinants of late HIV diagnosis. The study showed that 60% of patients were late presenters, with 35% presenting with advanced disease. The major determinants identified were being male and low level of education. This led to recommendations directed at ensuring programmes that targets men in identifying their HIV status and assess care at early stage to prevents the morbidity and mortality associated with delayed presentation. Also, it was recommended that effort should be made to improve access to education and also include HIV related topics into the educational curriculum. Chapter 5 aimed to describe the prevalence and determinants of DM amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals. This is a cross-sectional study which recruited 335 patients between August 2016 and September 2017. Definition for diabetes mellitus was made based on the SEDMSA 2015 guideline of HBA1C of above 6.5%. Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analysis was used to examine the determinants of abnormal glycated haemoglobin. Findings showed the prevalence of DM at about 6% amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals. This is similar to findings in other study within the country, but a bit lower than what was obtained in the developed countries. The role of older age (above 40 years) as predisposing factor to development of diabetes in newly diagnosed HIV positive individual was well noted and taken. This ensures that screening for DM should be targeted at elderly HIV positive individuals. The grey area of the appropriate mode of diagnostic test to use to diagnose HIV is still debatable, however, a combination of HBA1c and fasting blood sugar (FBS) may improve the diagnosis of DM in this population group. In chapter 6, the general conclusions, recommendations and future perspectives of the study are reflected.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sogbanmu, Olufunso Oladipo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:40495
- Description: Phylogenies may help to characterize transmission pairs, enhance contact tracing and outbreak investigations, track the origin and spread of epidemics over place and time, and to identify patterns of onward Human Immunodeficiency-Virus (HIV) transmission among risk groups. If the pattern and evolution of HIV drug resistance can be mapped, this may influence the development of guidelines in the clinical management of HIV especially with issues relating to prevalence of primary drug resistance and its impact on outcomes of present antiretroviral treatment (ART) regimen in use and the ability to trace and track the development of drug resistant strains. The roll-out of the test and treat Programme for newly diagnosed HIV infected pa-tient, seeks to identify HIV infected individuals early and to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with the late presentation for HIV care. The determination of the magnitude of ‘late presentation’ and or ‘presentation with advanced HIV disease’ can be used in very diverse settings and for many purposes. It provides a unified way to define the problem, thereby targeting appropriate interventions to prevent the detrimental outcomes associated with late presentation to care. The subtle relationship between HIV and diabetes mellitus (DM) may also help in formulating better preventive programs to aid the control of non-communicable diseases such as DM. This cross-sectional study includes a purposive selection of 335 HIV positive patients attending the voluntary counselling and Testing (VCT) and HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) centres and outpatient departments at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital and the HCT sites at the Buffalo District municipality community health centres, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Late or delayed presentation of HIV infection was defined as CD4 cell count beneath 350 cells/μL and/or patients presenting with an AIDS-defining event at the first follow-up regardless of the CD4 cell count. Chapter 1 provides the general introduction had an overview of the introduction to the study, the statement of the research problem, hypothesis, the aim and the objectives. xx Chapter 2 looked in-depth at the HIV, case definition, the latest epidemiology of HIV, the HIV genome, the life cycle of HIV, its diagnosis, the classes of antiretroviral drugs, development of drug resistance. Chapter 3 highlighted the prevalence of Transmitted Drug Resistance (TDR) with focus on the protease gene. RNA was extracted from blood samples of 72 newly diagnosed HIV-1 patients attending some HIV testing and counselling clinics from August 2016 to July 2017. Protease fragments were amplified with specific primers by RT-PCR followed by nested PCR. The amplified products were sequenced using the ABI 360 sequencer, edited with Geneious version 9.1.5 and translated into amino acid with BioEdit software. Drug related resistance mutation (DRMs) analysis was performed on all the protease sequences in accordance with the 2009 WHO list of surveillance drug resistance mutations by submitting the edited sequences to Stanford HIV drug interpretation programme and the international AIDS society-USA guidelines for query of drug resistance associated mutations while phylogenetic analysis was performed using MEGA 6 to allocate all viral sequences into subtypes. In the study, a total of 52/72 (71.1%) reliable HIV-1 protease sequences were obtained in which subtyping and drug resistance mutations were performed. Two (3.8%) major Protease resistance associated mutation (V82A/L and L90M) were observed while another polymorphism like L10F, T74S, Q58E, L10I/V and M46V were also identified. Phylogenetic analyses delineated all the sequences as HIV-1 subtype C. Chapter 4 describes the prevalence and the determinants of late presentation amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals in the Eastern Cape. It indicates the extent of the prevalence of patients presenting to care and at what HIV stage they were assessing health care services since the inception of the ‘test and treat’ strategy. It is a cross-sectional study where a total of 335 newly diagnosed patients were recruited consecutively be-tween August 2016 and July 2017. Late presenter for HIV care was defined in accordance with the European Late Presenter Consensus working group as a patient who reports for care when the CD4 count is below 350 cells/μL and/or when there is an established Aids- xxi defining clinical condition, irrespective of CD4 count. Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analysis was used to examine the determinants of late HIV diagnosis. The study showed that 60% of patients were late presenters, with 35% presenting with advanced disease. The major determinants identified were being male and low level of education. This led to recommendations directed at ensuring programmes that targets men in identifying their HIV status and assess care at early stage to prevents the morbidity and mortality associated with delayed presentation. Also, it was recommended that effort should be made to improve access to education and also include HIV related topics into the educational curriculum. Chapter 5 aimed to describe the prevalence and determinants of DM amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals. This is a cross-sectional study which recruited 335 patients between August 2016 and September 2017. Definition for diabetes mellitus was made based on the SEDMSA 2015 guideline of HBA1C of above 6.5%. Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression analysis was used to examine the determinants of abnormal glycated haemoglobin. Findings showed the prevalence of DM at about 6% amongst newly diagnosed HIV positive individuals. This is similar to findings in other study within the country, but a bit lower than what was obtained in the developed countries. The role of older age (above 40 years) as predisposing factor to development of diabetes in newly diagnosed HIV positive individual was well noted and taken. This ensures that screening for DM should be targeted at elderly HIV positive individuals. The grey area of the appropriate mode of diagnostic test to use to diagnose HIV is still debatable, however, a combination of HBA1c and fasting blood sugar (FBS) may improve the diagnosis of DM in this population group. In chapter 6, the general conclusions, recommendations and future perspectives of the study are reflected.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Genetic detection of some tick-borne bacterial and protozoan pathogens in ticks collected in Raymond Mhlaba local municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nqoro, Ayabulela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Tick-borne diseases Ticks
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17084 , vital:40846
- Description: Ticks and tick-borne diseases are becoming a major life threatening concern to wildlife, domesticated animals and human health. Besides causing skin damage, ticks infestations have become a growing burden in food security, economic losses and transmitting multides of pathogens. Little data and knowledge is available regarding the occurrence of etiologic agents of tick-borne diseases in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, hence the study was conducted and aimed at screening for genetic material of Anaplasma, Rickettisia, Ehrlichia, Borrelia, Babesia and Theileria species in ticks collected in Raymond Mhlaba District at Eastern Cape, South Africa. Ticks were collected from domesticated animals in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, and were morphologically identified and processed for DNA extraction. Ticks were chopped into bits and DNA was extracted from the samples with commercial DNA extraction kit. The extracted DNA samples was used to molecularly identify the tick as well as assess the presence of tickborne pathogens belonging to Rickettsia, Babesia, Borrelia, Anaplasma and Erhlichia, and Theileria spp. by PCR using specific primer pairs published in literature. Positive amplicons were sequenced in a commercial sequencing facility. The obtained chromatograms were edited with Geneious bioinformatics software and were subjected to BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses using MEGA7 version for evolutionary relationships with curated reference sequences in GenBank. Nine hundred and sixty two tick samples were collected from domestic animals. Collected tick samples belonged to three genera, which were the Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus and Haemophalis in decreasing order of their abundance. Screening of tick DNA samples by PCR did not show presence of Babesia, Borrelia, Anaplasma and Erhlichia. 13 Positive PCR products were observed for Rickettsia and Theileria spp.. The positive amplicons were purified, sequenced and analysed for speciation of Theileria and Rickettsia. The presence of Rickettsia was detected in 60/994 (6%) from the three genera of ticks. Phylogenetic analyses shows that the sequences obtained are phylogenetically related to members of Spotted fever group Rickettsiae. Genetic material of Theileria spp. was detected from 10/994 ticks with an overall infection of 1% obtained in Rhipicephalus genera. Analyses shows that the sequences obtained are phylogenetically related to T. orientalis complex. The finding from this study therefore expands the knowledge on recent emergence of Theileria and Rickettsia spp. in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nqoro, Ayabulela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Tick-borne diseases Ticks
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17084 , vital:40846
- Description: Ticks and tick-borne diseases are becoming a major life threatening concern to wildlife, domesticated animals and human health. Besides causing skin damage, ticks infestations have become a growing burden in food security, economic losses and transmitting multides of pathogens. Little data and knowledge is available regarding the occurrence of etiologic agents of tick-borne diseases in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, hence the study was conducted and aimed at screening for genetic material of Anaplasma, Rickettisia, Ehrlichia, Borrelia, Babesia and Theileria species in ticks collected in Raymond Mhlaba District at Eastern Cape, South Africa. Ticks were collected from domesticated animals in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, and were morphologically identified and processed for DNA extraction. Ticks were chopped into bits and DNA was extracted from the samples with commercial DNA extraction kit. The extracted DNA samples was used to molecularly identify the tick as well as assess the presence of tickborne pathogens belonging to Rickettsia, Babesia, Borrelia, Anaplasma and Erhlichia, and Theileria spp. by PCR using specific primer pairs published in literature. Positive amplicons were sequenced in a commercial sequencing facility. The obtained chromatograms were edited with Geneious bioinformatics software and were subjected to BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses using MEGA7 version for evolutionary relationships with curated reference sequences in GenBank. Nine hundred and sixty two tick samples were collected from domestic animals. Collected tick samples belonged to three genera, which were the Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus and Haemophalis in decreasing order of their abundance. Screening of tick DNA samples by PCR did not show presence of Babesia, Borrelia, Anaplasma and Erhlichia. 13 Positive PCR products were observed for Rickettsia and Theileria spp.. The positive amplicons were purified, sequenced and analysed for speciation of Theileria and Rickettsia. The presence of Rickettsia was detected in 60/994 (6%) from the three genera of ticks. Phylogenetic analyses shows that the sequences obtained are phylogenetically related to members of Spotted fever group Rickettsiae. Genetic material of Theileria spp. was detected from 10/994 ticks with an overall infection of 1% obtained in Rhipicephalus genera. Analyses shows that the sequences obtained are phylogenetically related to T. orientalis complex. The finding from this study therefore expands the knowledge on recent emergence of Theileria and Rickettsia spp. in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Genetic diversity, resistance profile of hiv and risk assessment of mother-to-child transmission in pregnant women on antiretroviral therapy in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15120 , vital:40183
- Description: Despite the initiation of life-long ART in HIV-infected pregnant women, the rate and determinants of infant HIV transmission are not known, especially in the poor resource settings of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Maternal anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. However, the inevitable risks of emergence of HIV drug resistance poses significant threat to achieving this goal of HIV-free generation and keeping mothers alive. Also, it is unclear if women with high viral load at delivery have acquired clinically relevant mutations, which could confer resistance to the ART, thus, further increasing the risks of motherto-child transmission of HIV-drug resistance strains. In addition to the gaps identified in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) context, the understanding of regional epidemics is crucial to the broader epidemiological profiling of HIV infections in the country. Despite the rapid influx of foreign nationals to South African and Eastern Cape Province, there has not been any molecular epidemiological studies profiling the HIV diversity in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15120 , vital:40183
- Description: Despite the initiation of life-long ART in HIV-infected pregnant women, the rate and determinants of infant HIV transmission are not known, especially in the poor resource settings of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Maternal anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. However, the inevitable risks of emergence of HIV drug resistance poses significant threat to achieving this goal of HIV-free generation and keeping mothers alive. Also, it is unclear if women with high viral load at delivery have acquired clinically relevant mutations, which could confer resistance to the ART, thus, further increasing the risks of motherto-child transmission of HIV-drug resistance strains. In addition to the gaps identified in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) context, the understanding of regional epidemics is crucial to the broader epidemiological profiling of HIV infections in the country. Despite the rapid influx of foreign nationals to South African and Eastern Cape Province, there has not been any molecular epidemiological studies profiling the HIV diversity in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Geological and geophysical assessment of groundwater vulnerability to contamination in selected general landfill sites in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mepaiyeda, Seyi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Groundwater -- Pollution Sanitary landfills
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Geology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12227 , vital:39217
- Description: Increasing expansion, population and urbanization have resulted in high volume of waste generated daily in South Africa. Most municipalities in the Eastern Cape are experiencing challenges in effective waste disposal, thus resulting in pollution of the air, soil and groundwater by the percolation of harmful contaminants into the environment from landfill leachate. Groundwater resources are limited in South Africa due to itssemi-arid nature. Also, there islimited information available, not only about where it occurs but how to manage it so that its quality does not depreciate to unacceptable levels. A combination of these factors coupled with a gap between waste policy and its subsequent implementation may be disastrous to South Africa. This research examines the impact of landfill sites on groundwater resources at three selected sites in the Eastern Cape Province using an integrated geological and geophysical approach. The methodology adopted include: an exhaustive literature review on waste management policies and practices in South Africa and Eastern Cape specifically. It also involved remote sensing for the study of geomorphology and structural interpretations of lineaments. Field excursions, analysis of physico-chemical and geochemical properties of groundwater obtained from monitoring boreholes and leachate pond in the vicinity of the landfill sites was also carried out. Combined induced polarization (IP) and electrical resistivity measurements for geophysical assessment of groundwater vulnerability and petrographical analysis was alos adopted. Data analysis and interpretation of the obtained results showed that the selected landfill sites are generally characterized by a 4-layer Earth structure with an average depth to top of the bedrock between 15 m - 30 m. Plant-rock association observed from the aerial photo-interpretation showed groundwater potential around the locality of the landfill sites with a dendritic to poorly drained x patterns and moderate to high topography. Structural controls such as the presence of lineaments and a fractured bedrock beneath, which are excellent pathways for the migration of leachate, particularly at the Berlin and King Williams Town landfill sites were observed. Analysis of physico-chemical and geochemical properties of water samples showed contamination of the groundwater by heavy metals and some of the physico-chemical properties were above the generally acceptable limits (WHO). These include high electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solid (TDS) values observed in the groundwater samples from the King Williams Town landfill which indicated a downward transfer of leachate into the groundwater. The difference in EC and TDS values for boreholes BH2 and BH1 (9892 µS/cm, 4939 mg/L and 6988 µS/cm, 3497 mg/L respectively), showed that concentration of contaminants increased towards the centre of the landfill. Interpretation of the obtained results from the Berlin landfill showed the presence of heavy metals in groundwater samples in high concentrations. This indicated the dumping of toxic and hazardous waste substances on the landfill, contrary to the landfill design and classification. This could have harmful effect on plants and animals. Integrated geophysical assessment showed the presence of leachate plumes on pseudosections across the landfill sites. This was further corroborated on the chargeability pseudosections. Resistivity and IP pseudosections from the Berlin landfill showed a 4-layered Earth structure and anomalous zones of resistivity (≤ 112 Ώ-m) and low chargeability (≤1.25 ms) in the top layers. This is indicative of percolating leachate plume in the unsaturated zone. Contaminants ranging from unsaturated waste with high ion content to dense aqueous phase liquid contaminants, characterized by low resistivity (34 Ώm to 80 Ώ-m) and low chargeability values (0.05 ms to 5.75 ms) were identified across the Alice landfill. Results from the King Williams Town Landfill revealed plume contamination to a depth of about 75 m, well within the aquiferous zone. xi It is suggested that waste disposal practices should be improved by proper waste inspection and classification at landfills prior to disposal, use of lining and cap material to prevent leaching of contaminants into the groundwater below and the construction of waste cells and containment structures. This will go a long way in mitigating groundwater contamination due to landfilling at the study areas
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mepaiyeda, Seyi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Groundwater -- Pollution Sanitary landfills
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Geology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12227 , vital:39217
- Description: Increasing expansion, population and urbanization have resulted in high volume of waste generated daily in South Africa. Most municipalities in the Eastern Cape are experiencing challenges in effective waste disposal, thus resulting in pollution of the air, soil and groundwater by the percolation of harmful contaminants into the environment from landfill leachate. Groundwater resources are limited in South Africa due to itssemi-arid nature. Also, there islimited information available, not only about where it occurs but how to manage it so that its quality does not depreciate to unacceptable levels. A combination of these factors coupled with a gap between waste policy and its subsequent implementation may be disastrous to South Africa. This research examines the impact of landfill sites on groundwater resources at three selected sites in the Eastern Cape Province using an integrated geological and geophysical approach. The methodology adopted include: an exhaustive literature review on waste management policies and practices in South Africa and Eastern Cape specifically. It also involved remote sensing for the study of geomorphology and structural interpretations of lineaments. Field excursions, analysis of physico-chemical and geochemical properties of groundwater obtained from monitoring boreholes and leachate pond in the vicinity of the landfill sites was also carried out. Combined induced polarization (IP) and electrical resistivity measurements for geophysical assessment of groundwater vulnerability and petrographical analysis was alos adopted. Data analysis and interpretation of the obtained results showed that the selected landfill sites are generally characterized by a 4-layer Earth structure with an average depth to top of the bedrock between 15 m - 30 m. Plant-rock association observed from the aerial photo-interpretation showed groundwater potential around the locality of the landfill sites with a dendritic to poorly drained x patterns and moderate to high topography. Structural controls such as the presence of lineaments and a fractured bedrock beneath, which are excellent pathways for the migration of leachate, particularly at the Berlin and King Williams Town landfill sites were observed. Analysis of physico-chemical and geochemical properties of water samples showed contamination of the groundwater by heavy metals and some of the physico-chemical properties were above the generally acceptable limits (WHO). These include high electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solid (TDS) values observed in the groundwater samples from the King Williams Town landfill which indicated a downward transfer of leachate into the groundwater. The difference in EC and TDS values for boreholes BH2 and BH1 (9892 µS/cm, 4939 mg/L and 6988 µS/cm, 3497 mg/L respectively), showed that concentration of contaminants increased towards the centre of the landfill. Interpretation of the obtained results from the Berlin landfill showed the presence of heavy metals in groundwater samples in high concentrations. This indicated the dumping of toxic and hazardous waste substances on the landfill, contrary to the landfill design and classification. This could have harmful effect on plants and animals. Integrated geophysical assessment showed the presence of leachate plumes on pseudosections across the landfill sites. This was further corroborated on the chargeability pseudosections. Resistivity and IP pseudosections from the Berlin landfill showed a 4-layered Earth structure and anomalous zones of resistivity (≤ 112 Ώ-m) and low chargeability (≤1.25 ms) in the top layers. This is indicative of percolating leachate plume in the unsaturated zone. Contaminants ranging from unsaturated waste with high ion content to dense aqueous phase liquid contaminants, characterized by low resistivity (34 Ώm to 80 Ώ-m) and low chargeability values (0.05 ms to 5.75 ms) were identified across the Alice landfill. Results from the King Williams Town Landfill revealed plume contamination to a depth of about 75 m, well within the aquiferous zone. xi It is suggested that waste disposal practices should be improved by proper waste inspection and classification at landfills prior to disposal, use of lining and cap material to prevent leaching of contaminants into the groundwater below and the construction of waste cells and containment structures. This will go a long way in mitigating groundwater contamination due to landfilling at the study areas
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019