The effect of new teaching methods in chemistry on the foundation certificate learners' results
- Authors: Nagel, Lilian Estelle
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Chemistry -- Study and teaching (Higher)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10787 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/162 , Chemistry -- Study and teaching (Higher)
- Description: This study investigated possible alternative Chemistry teaching methods to improve the learning and thus the pass rate of the learners of access programmes at the Port Elizabeth Technikon. The study traced Chemistry learning from the Pre-Technician course to the present Science Foundation Certificate. Since the latter programme is a new course with new criteria, only implemented since the beginning of 2003, it provided a suitable platform for the evaluation and updating, if necessary, of new teaching methods. The study was limited to the subject of Chemistry. The participating learners in this qualitative research were fully informed of the objectives of this research and, for ethical reasons, their identities were protected. The methodology chosen was action research, which will include discussions regarding the choice, necessity and value of the research method. The following tools were used to collect data to determine approaches to learning and how the examination results were influenced: Questionnaires; Journal entries of students; Interviews; Data of examination results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Nagel, Lilian Estelle
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Chemistry -- Study and teaching (Higher)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10787 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/162 , Chemistry -- Study and teaching (Higher)
- Description: This study investigated possible alternative Chemistry teaching methods to improve the learning and thus the pass rate of the learners of access programmes at the Port Elizabeth Technikon. The study traced Chemistry learning from the Pre-Technician course to the present Science Foundation Certificate. Since the latter programme is a new course with new criteria, only implemented since the beginning of 2003, it provided a suitable platform for the evaluation and updating, if necessary, of new teaching methods. The study was limited to the subject of Chemistry. The participating learners in this qualitative research were fully informed of the objectives of this research and, for ethical reasons, their identities were protected. The methodology chosen was action research, which will include discussions regarding the choice, necessity and value of the research method. The following tools were used to collect data to determine approaches to learning and how the examination results were influenced: Questionnaires; Journal entries of students; Interviews; Data of examination results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
An assessment of communication strategies utilised at Guangzhou Instititute of Resources Separation Sciences (GIRSS)
- Authors: Huang, Lin
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/203 , Business communication , Communication in management
- Description: The main problem of this study was to assess the communication strategies used by GIRSS to achieve organisational goals. To address this problem, a theoretical study was undertaken to identify the communication strategies used in organisations. The theoretical guidelines for effective communication were integrated into a communication model, which consisted of the following components: · The establishment of organisational communication structures; · The selection of appropriate communication media; IV · The management of communication barriers; and · Addressing the challenges in organisational communication. Based on the model, a survey questionnaire was developed to assess the extent to which GIRSS made use of these strategies. The questionnaire was administered to both managers and non-managers in the organisation. Due to the distance between South Africa and China, the questionnaire was administered via e-mail. The empirical results revealed that some of the theoretical guidelines were followed, but there was room for improvement in terms of communication strategies used at GIRSS. Specifically it was found that many barriers existed as a result of status and other differences, which influenced communication in the organisation. Communication in organisations is very important as it contributes to goal attainment, satisfaction, cooperation and problem-solving. Communication is a skill that can be learned, and managers as well as employees should consider the results of the study to initiate changes to the communication strategies used in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Huang, Lin
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/203 , Business communication , Communication in management
- Description: The main problem of this study was to assess the communication strategies used by GIRSS to achieve organisational goals. To address this problem, a theoretical study was undertaken to identify the communication strategies used in organisations. The theoretical guidelines for effective communication were integrated into a communication model, which consisted of the following components: · The establishment of organisational communication structures; · The selection of appropriate communication media; IV · The management of communication barriers; and · Addressing the challenges in organisational communication. Based on the model, a survey questionnaire was developed to assess the extent to which GIRSS made use of these strategies. The questionnaire was administered to both managers and non-managers in the organisation. Due to the distance between South Africa and China, the questionnaire was administered via e-mail. The empirical results revealed that some of the theoretical guidelines were followed, but there was room for improvement in terms of communication strategies used at GIRSS. Specifically it was found that many barriers existed as a result of status and other differences, which influenced communication in the organisation. Communication in organisations is very important as it contributes to goal attainment, satisfaction, cooperation and problem-solving. Communication is a skill that can be learned, and managers as well as employees should consider the results of the study to initiate changes to the communication strategies used in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An evaluation of the implementation of curriculum 2005 in grade 7 in the Motherwell primary schools
- Authors: Rulashe, Brenda Lavisa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education, Primary -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/231 , Education, Primary -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This study focuses on the effective implementation of C2005 by the Grade 7 teachers in the Motherwell area. For teachers to meet the demands of the new curriculum, in-service training is needed to develop them to be competent in all the aspects required for the use of the OBE approach. The main research question is: How have Grade 7 teachers in Motherwell implemented C2005 in their classrooms? Questionnaires and interviews were used as tools to collect the data. The data was collected from five selected primary schools in the Motherwell area. The teachers’ responses obtained from questionnaires and interviews were analyzed both statistically (using tables) and descriptively (telling teachers’ stories). Responses determined the competence of teachers in four areas, namely, teaching methods, content, classroom organization and assessment of learners. An account of inservice training courses attended by teachers is provided. These courses revealed the problems encountered by teachers during the implementation process and the subsequent assisstance they received. The data provided in this study is in line with the research done by the Review Committee (Chisholm, 2000) in the Eastern Cape. Recommendations of the Review Committee gave rise to the establishment of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). The responses from this study confirmed the need for retraining of teachers to develop their competences. This study urges the Department of Education to focus on establishing methods of training that will develop teachers in their teaching experience. The SMTs should also be able to assist teachers with the problems they encounter in their schools. Teachers should be able to take responsibility for their learners’ competence and take ownership of changes in their schools. The financial assistance of the National Research Foundation towards this research is hereby acknowledged. Opinions expressed in this thesis and conclusions arrived at, are those of the author and not necessarily to be attributed to the National Research Foundation
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Rulashe, Brenda Lavisa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education, Primary -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/231 , Education, Primary -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This study focuses on the effective implementation of C2005 by the Grade 7 teachers in the Motherwell area. For teachers to meet the demands of the new curriculum, in-service training is needed to develop them to be competent in all the aspects required for the use of the OBE approach. The main research question is: How have Grade 7 teachers in Motherwell implemented C2005 in their classrooms? Questionnaires and interviews were used as tools to collect the data. The data was collected from five selected primary schools in the Motherwell area. The teachers’ responses obtained from questionnaires and interviews were analyzed both statistically (using tables) and descriptively (telling teachers’ stories). Responses determined the competence of teachers in four areas, namely, teaching methods, content, classroom organization and assessment of learners. An account of inservice training courses attended by teachers is provided. These courses revealed the problems encountered by teachers during the implementation process and the subsequent assisstance they received. The data provided in this study is in line with the research done by the Review Committee (Chisholm, 2000) in the Eastern Cape. Recommendations of the Review Committee gave rise to the establishment of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). The responses from this study confirmed the need for retraining of teachers to develop their competences. This study urges the Department of Education to focus on establishing methods of training that will develop teachers in their teaching experience. The SMTs should also be able to assist teachers with the problems they encounter in their schools. Teachers should be able to take responsibility for their learners’ competence and take ownership of changes in their schools. The financial assistance of the National Research Foundation towards this research is hereby acknowledged. Opinions expressed in this thesis and conclusions arrived at, are those of the author and not necessarily to be attributed to the National Research Foundation
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An investigation into the antibacterial activites of medicinal plants traditionally used in the Eastern Cape to treat lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients
- Authors: Wilson, Katherine Leigh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10985 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/242 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Lung infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are very serious and are usually fatal. Prolonged antibiotic treatment can result in the development of antibiotic resistance. Thus, studies are required to determine if traditional medicinal plants have any significant effects (i.e. antibacterial effects in this case) on certain bacteria causing lung infections in CF patients, providing possible alternative treatment. The aim of this study was to test the effects of several Eastern Cape medicinal plants on specific bacteria causing lung infections in CF patients, for possible antibacterial activities. Four plants traditionally used to treat lung infections (Artemisia afra, Dodonaea angustifolia, Leonotis leonurus & Tulbaghia violacea), and different strains of four bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas species & Klebsiella pneumoniae), usually causing lung infections were investigated. Methanol, aqueous and acetone extraction methods were used to make extracts of the various plants chosen. A decoction of each plant was also investigated. An adapted microtitre plate method for testing the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts against the chosen bacteria was used. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each plant extract was determined by means of this method.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Wilson, Katherine Leigh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10985 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/242 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Lung infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are very serious and are usually fatal. Prolonged antibiotic treatment can result in the development of antibiotic resistance. Thus, studies are required to determine if traditional medicinal plants have any significant effects (i.e. antibacterial effects in this case) on certain bacteria causing lung infections in CF patients, providing possible alternative treatment. The aim of this study was to test the effects of several Eastern Cape medicinal plants on specific bacteria causing lung infections in CF patients, for possible antibacterial activities. Four plants traditionally used to treat lung infections (Artemisia afra, Dodonaea angustifolia, Leonotis leonurus & Tulbaghia violacea), and different strains of four bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas species & Klebsiella pneumoniae), usually causing lung infections were investigated. Methanol, aqueous and acetone extraction methods were used to make extracts of the various plants chosen. A decoction of each plant was also investigated. An adapted microtitre plate method for testing the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts against the chosen bacteria was used. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each plant extract was determined by means of this method.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An investigation into the effects of co-operative learning strategies on the test results of science students at N3 level at the Port Elizabeth College for Further Education and Training
- Authors: Ferreira, Dennis Compton
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Group work in education , Examinations -- Validity , Science students -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , College students -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/245 , Group work in education , Examinations -- Validity , Science students -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , College students -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The poor academic performance of Engineering Science N3 students at the Port Elizabeth College for Further Education and Training prompted me to conduct this study. The aim thereof was to investigate the influence that a co-operative learning strategy would have on the test results of students who enrolled for this programme. The hypothesis being tested in this study was whether co-operative learning strategies would improve the test results of science students in the N3 Engineering Science class. A literature review on co-operative learning, its principles as well as the role of the lecturer as facilitator was conducted. In addition, the different types of co-operative learning techniques were investigated so that an approach conducive to the needs of students studying at Further Education and Training Colleges could be selected. The Student Team Achievement Divisions (STAD) technique was deemed to be the most suitable approach. Both qualitative and quantitative data gathering techniques are employed in this study. Interviews were carried out with fellow lecturers at the Port Elizabeth College to determine what teaching strategies are generally implemented in the N3 class. Experimental research involving two groups of 30 students was then conducted to determine the results of students. The one group (experimental) was subjected to an intervention, namely the STAD co-operative learning technique while the other group (control) was taught using the traditional method of talk and chalk. This intervention took place over a period of ix two weeks. However, prior to the co-operative learning intervention and before students were divided into groups, they were taught as a single group for a period of two weeks. The total time spent on this experiment was therefore four weeks. Student test scores gathered from the experiment was statistically analysed and reported on in chapter five. These results indicated that the experimental group out-performed the control group by a significant margin. The higher academic achievement of students in the experimental group could only be attributed to the alternative teaching strategy (STAD) which was absent in the teaching of the control group. This proved the hypothesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Ferreira, Dennis Compton
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Group work in education , Examinations -- Validity , Science students -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , College students -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/245 , Group work in education , Examinations -- Validity , Science students -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , College students -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The poor academic performance of Engineering Science N3 students at the Port Elizabeth College for Further Education and Training prompted me to conduct this study. The aim thereof was to investigate the influence that a co-operative learning strategy would have on the test results of students who enrolled for this programme. The hypothesis being tested in this study was whether co-operative learning strategies would improve the test results of science students in the N3 Engineering Science class. A literature review on co-operative learning, its principles as well as the role of the lecturer as facilitator was conducted. In addition, the different types of co-operative learning techniques were investigated so that an approach conducive to the needs of students studying at Further Education and Training Colleges could be selected. The Student Team Achievement Divisions (STAD) technique was deemed to be the most suitable approach. Both qualitative and quantitative data gathering techniques are employed in this study. Interviews were carried out with fellow lecturers at the Port Elizabeth College to determine what teaching strategies are generally implemented in the N3 class. Experimental research involving two groups of 30 students was then conducted to determine the results of students. The one group (experimental) was subjected to an intervention, namely the STAD co-operative learning technique while the other group (control) was taught using the traditional method of talk and chalk. This intervention took place over a period of ix two weeks. However, prior to the co-operative learning intervention and before students were divided into groups, they were taught as a single group for a period of two weeks. The total time spent on this experiment was therefore four weeks. Student test scores gathered from the experiment was statistically analysed and reported on in chapter five. These results indicated that the experimental group out-performed the control group by a significant margin. The higher academic achievement of students in the experimental group could only be attributed to the alternative teaching strategy (STAD) which was absent in the teaching of the control group. This proved the hypothesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Implementing an activity-based costing model
- Authors: Cohen, Howard
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/240 , Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting
- Description: Activity-based costing (ABC) is a forward-looking product costing method. Unlike traditional volume-based approaches, which are historically oriented, ABC concepts guide managers in seeking the best strategies to pursue in the future. This product costing method can be a valuable tool in planning and managing costs not only in the manufacturing area, but also in all aspects of business operations, from product design to distribution. Although its main advantage is its ability to provide more realistic product cost information for financial reporting purposes, use of ABC can lead to a better understanding of the strategic linkages existing between the various cost areas in the organisation. It enables managers to have a holistic view of cost management. ABC was developed to better understand, manage and control the overheads. The brief fundamental of ABC is: Products consume activities, activities consume resources, and resources consume costs. Based upon this fundamental principle, ABC can trace the cost from resources to activities that are consumed by product manufacturing processes as well as from activities to products. ABC investigates the transactions that trigger cost instead of concentrating solely on measures of physical volume or a certain amount of labour hours. Compared to the traditional costing systems, ABC can not only answer how much product cost is but also tell executives the factors triggering costs and the way to manage costs. ABC helps managers make better decisions about product design, pricing, marketing, and mix and encourages continual improvement. Unlike the traditional method, instead of using the single pre-determined overhead rate to absorb the indirect cost to products, ABC uses actual incurred cost to v determine the product cost. By tracing the absorption process of indirect cost, ABC would provide more information to management and help it find better ways to manage costs. However, the cost drivers used in ABC are constants but the cost driver rates are continually changing. ABC still uses predetermined cost drivers so it has the same fundamental problem as the traditional methods for estimating.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Cohen, Howard
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/240 , Activity-based costing , Managerial accounting
- Description: Activity-based costing (ABC) is a forward-looking product costing method. Unlike traditional volume-based approaches, which are historically oriented, ABC concepts guide managers in seeking the best strategies to pursue in the future. This product costing method can be a valuable tool in planning and managing costs not only in the manufacturing area, but also in all aspects of business operations, from product design to distribution. Although its main advantage is its ability to provide more realistic product cost information for financial reporting purposes, use of ABC can lead to a better understanding of the strategic linkages existing between the various cost areas in the organisation. It enables managers to have a holistic view of cost management. ABC was developed to better understand, manage and control the overheads. The brief fundamental of ABC is: Products consume activities, activities consume resources, and resources consume costs. Based upon this fundamental principle, ABC can trace the cost from resources to activities that are consumed by product manufacturing processes as well as from activities to products. ABC investigates the transactions that trigger cost instead of concentrating solely on measures of physical volume or a certain amount of labour hours. Compared to the traditional costing systems, ABC can not only answer how much product cost is but also tell executives the factors triggering costs and the way to manage costs. ABC helps managers make better decisions about product design, pricing, marketing, and mix and encourages continual improvement. Unlike the traditional method, instead of using the single pre-determined overhead rate to absorb the indirect cost to products, ABC uses actual incurred cost to v determine the product cost. By tracing the absorption process of indirect cost, ABC would provide more information to management and help it find better ways to manage costs. However, the cost drivers used in ABC are constants but the cost driver rates are continually changing. ABC still uses predetermined cost drivers so it has the same fundamental problem as the traditional methods for estimating.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Optimization of a manufacturing process for atrazine with a focus on waste minimization
- Authors: Mtyopo, Mteteleli Bethwell
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Waste minimization , Atrazine -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10976 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/259 , Waste minimization , Atrazine -- Environmental aspects
- Description: Chemical synthesis is not complete without waste treatment. There is no chemical process that does not produce waste. The untreated effluent discharged by chemical industries poses a major environmental concern. This dissertation describes the results of an investigation carried out on the formation of by-products (impurities) during the synthesis of atrazine by neutralization of the reaction mixture during the actual synthesis procedure, and prior to disposal using carbon dioxide or hydrochloric acid. The main objectives for the said investigation were: {u100083} To optimise the reaction parameters to obtain a higher yield and purity of atrazine. {u100083} To evaluate the use of carbon dioxide and hydrochloric acid to neutralise the reaction mixture. {u100083} To study the solids present in the effluent. Synthetic reactions were carried out in the presence of an organic solvent, methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK). The synthesis of atrazine was optimised in terms of addition sequence and rates of amine reagents and base (proton acceptor) additions by means of bench scale reactions. It was found that addition of a neutralising step (hydrochloric acid or carbon dioxide) to neutralise the basic reaction mixture prior to and after addition of the secondary amine and the base minimizes the formation of by-products. Of particular importance in ensuring high yields and selectivity to the atrazine product was temperature control, pH control, reagent ratios, addition rates and mixing. The latter was important in view of the rapid reaction of amine/NaOH with cyanuric chloride, as well as the possible reaction of mono-i, the reaction intermediate, with IPA in cases of excesses of reagent. Under optimum conditions, an atrazine composition of >97% was achieved where the resultant product was well within stipulated product specifications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Mtyopo, Mteteleli Bethwell
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Waste minimization , Atrazine -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10976 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/259 , Waste minimization , Atrazine -- Environmental aspects
- Description: Chemical synthesis is not complete without waste treatment. There is no chemical process that does not produce waste. The untreated effluent discharged by chemical industries poses a major environmental concern. This dissertation describes the results of an investigation carried out on the formation of by-products (impurities) during the synthesis of atrazine by neutralization of the reaction mixture during the actual synthesis procedure, and prior to disposal using carbon dioxide or hydrochloric acid. The main objectives for the said investigation were: {u100083} To optimise the reaction parameters to obtain a higher yield and purity of atrazine. {u100083} To evaluate the use of carbon dioxide and hydrochloric acid to neutralise the reaction mixture. {u100083} To study the solids present in the effluent. Synthetic reactions were carried out in the presence of an organic solvent, methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK). The synthesis of atrazine was optimised in terms of addition sequence and rates of amine reagents and base (proton acceptor) additions by means of bench scale reactions. It was found that addition of a neutralising step (hydrochloric acid or carbon dioxide) to neutralise the basic reaction mixture prior to and after addition of the secondary amine and the base minimizes the formation of by-products. Of particular importance in ensuring high yields and selectivity to the atrazine product was temperature control, pH control, reagent ratios, addition rates and mixing. The latter was important in view of the rapid reaction of amine/NaOH with cyanuric chloride, as well as the possible reaction of mono-i, the reaction intermediate, with IPA in cases of excesses of reagent. Under optimum conditions, an atrazine composition of >97% was achieved where the resultant product was well within stipulated product specifications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Replacing maize with barley in concetrates fed to jersey cows grazing on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture
- Authors: Lehmann, Maryna
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Jersey cattle -- Feeding and feeds , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10732 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/181 , Jersey cattle -- Feeding and feeds , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: The aim of the first study was to determine if barley could replace maize as an energy source in concentrates fed to dairy cows grazing on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture without affecting the milk production, milk composition, or cause metabolic disorders. Sixty Jersey cows, in early to mid lactation were randomly allocated to one of five treatments (n = 12) based on feeding concentrates with different ratios of maize to barley, ranging from 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100, respectively. Concentrates contained 12 MJ ME kg -1 and 130g CP kg-1 DM and cows were fed 3 kg (as-is) concentrate after each milking for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Cows strip-grazed the irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (15.7 ± 1.8 percent DM; 20.2 ± 4.3 percent CP; 44.7 ± 3.5 percent NDF). Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein content. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Data of all the studies were subjected to a one-way ANOVA. Daily milk yield, FCM, MUN, milk fat yield, milk fat percent, protein yield, protein percent, live weight change, or body condition score change were not affected by treatment and values were 15.8 kg, 17.2 kg, 14.9 mg dl-1, 0.72 kg, 4.56 percent, 0.59 kg, 3.77 percent, 6.67 kg, and 0.15 BCS; 15.6 kg, 17.4 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.73 kg, 4.3 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.71 percent, 1.33 kg and 0.04 BCS; 17.2 kg, 17.9 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.74 kg, 4.36 percent, 0.63 kg, 3.71 percent, 0.33 kg and 0.08 BCS; 15.6 kg, 16.4 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.33 percent, 0.60 kg, 3.83 percent, -1.46 kg and 0.11 BCS; and 15.0 kg, 16.0 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.57 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.85 percent, 8.86 kg, and 0.05 BCS, respectively for the cows fed 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100 maize to barley ratio concentrate. According to these results, barley can replace maize without significantly affecting the milk production or milk composition. None of the cows presented any visible symptoms of acidosis. As it was clear from the results in the first study that maize could replace barley the aim of study 2A was therefore focused on determining the effect of feeding different levels of such a barley-based (2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1) concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change of Jersey cows on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture (23.1 ± 2.95 percent DM, 11.1 ± 0.11 percent CP, 60.8 ± 0.58 percent NDF). Forty-five Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 15) involving different levels of concentrate (12 MJ ME and 130g CP kg-1 DM) feeding for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Milk weights were also recorded daily, and milk samples collected weekly, and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. The results of this study indicated that increasing the concentrate level from 2.4 to 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not increase the milk yield (14.0 kg, 15.2 kg, 14.4 kg; P = 0.19). The FCM production increased from 15.8 to 17.5kg (P = 0.04) as the concentrate level increased from 2.4 to 4.8kg cow-1day-1. Increasing the concentrate from 4.8 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not result in a significant increase in FCM. The milk protein percent increased significantly from 3.4 - 3.6 percent when the concentrate feeding level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1. The MUN levels were 17.09 mg dl-1, 16.03 5 mg dl-1, and 16.36 mg dl-1 for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 concentrate levels, respectively. This is well within the recommended MUN levels (12 – 18 mg dl-1) indicating that sufficient protein was fed to cows. Increasing the concentrate level from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not increase production, probably due to a higher pasture substitution rate. Supplementing large quantities of rapidly fermentable grains, such as barley, can suppress rumen pH and may have a negative effect on the rate and extent of fibre digestion in the rumen. Therefore the aim of study 2B was not only to determine the effect of feeding different levels of a barley-based concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change, but was also to determine the effect of a low (4.8 kg cow-1day-1) versus a high (7.2 kg cow-1day-1) level of barley-based concentrate supplementation on ruminal DM and NDF degradability of Westerworld ryegrass sampled from the pastures that these cows were grazing on. Sixty Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 20) involving different levels of concentrate feeding. Concentrate (12 MJ ME, 130g CP kg-1 DM) was fed at 2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 for a period of 74 days (14-day adaptation and 60-day measurement). These cows stripgrazed irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (14.7 ± 4.37 percent DM, 25.1 ± 1.53 percent CP, and 44.4 ± 2.58 percent NDF) at a daily pasture allocation of 10 kg DM cow-1. Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Twelve Jersey cows, fitted with ruminal cannulae, were randomly allocated to two of the three treatments in the production study and received either 2.4 or 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1, of the same barley-based concentrate, in a two-period crossover design. These cows strip-grazed the same irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures as the sixty cows in the production study. Each period consisted of 21 days for adaptation and seven days for data collection. Rumen liquor samples were collected every 4 hours within a 24-hour cycle and repeated once. Rumen pH was measured immediately, recorded, and the supernatant fluid preserved and frozen, pending VFA analysis. The in situ nylon bag technique was used to determine DM and NDF degradation and dried samples of Westerworld ryegrass pasture were incubated for 0, 4, 8, 12, 20, 30, 48, 72 and 96 hours. The data were fitted in the non-linear model p = a + b (1-exp-ct) (Ørskov & McDonald, 1979). Daily milk production, fat corrected milk, milk fat yield and milk fat percent were not affected by treatment and values were 17.3 kg, 18.4 kg, 0.76 kg and 4.42 percent; 19.0 kg, 20.0 kg, 0.82 kg and 4.35 percent; and 18.1 kg, 19.1 kg, 0.79 kg and 4.37 percent for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 concentrate treatments, respectively. Milk protein percentage of cows on the 7.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 was significantly higher than that of cows on 4.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 feeding level. Live weight increased significantly as the level of concentrate feeding increased and values were 17.9 kg; and 28.9 kg on the 2.4 and 7.2kg concentrate treatment, respectively. There was a significant increase in the live weight of cows that were fed 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is) in comparison to those cows that were fed 2.4 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 (as-is). This may have resulted from more nutrients being partitioned to live weight gain rather than milk production. No further response in milk production was observed when concentrate daily feeding was increased from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1. It is postulated that the higher concentrate allowance resulted in a higher substitution rate and lower DMI intake from pasture. 6 There was no significant decline in the rumen pH (6.2 ± 0.4 and 6.2 ± 0.5) when the concentrate level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is). The total VFA (118.1 ± 45.9 and 139.4 ± 45.6 mmol L-1) and isovalerate (0.009 ± 0.07 and 0.248 ± 0.52 mmol L-1) increased significantly when the concentrate was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1. No other rumen parameters were affected by treatment. Ruminal DM and NDF degradability of the Kikuyu/ryegrass pature were not affected by the level of concentrate supplementation. An increase in the concentrate level from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not reduce degradability of either DM (94.67 ± 5.97, 94.49 ± 5.09; P = 0.919) or NDF (92.15 ± 8.69, 94.4 ± 11.73; P = 0.451), respectively. Results of rumen parameters and PD values were within the range reported by Bargo et al., (2003), viz. pH 5.76 – 6.29, NH3-N concentration 8.7 – 32.2 mg dl-1, total VFA concentration 90.3 - 151.4 mmol L-1 and PD values 89.5 – 93.5 % reported by Bargo et al. (2003). According to these authors, there is no simple relationship between any amount of the concentrate supplemented, and the ruminal pH and concentrate feeding only affects the in situ ruminal digestion of pasture when it is fed, at quantities higher than 8 kg DM cow-1day-1 (Bargo et al., 2003).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Lehmann, Maryna
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Jersey cattle -- Feeding and feeds , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10732 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/181 , Jersey cattle -- Feeding and feeds , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: The aim of the first study was to determine if barley could replace maize as an energy source in concentrates fed to dairy cows grazing on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture without affecting the milk production, milk composition, or cause metabolic disorders. Sixty Jersey cows, in early to mid lactation were randomly allocated to one of five treatments (n = 12) based on feeding concentrates with different ratios of maize to barley, ranging from 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100, respectively. Concentrates contained 12 MJ ME kg -1 and 130g CP kg-1 DM and cows were fed 3 kg (as-is) concentrate after each milking for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Cows strip-grazed the irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (15.7 ± 1.8 percent DM; 20.2 ± 4.3 percent CP; 44.7 ± 3.5 percent NDF). Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein content. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Data of all the studies were subjected to a one-way ANOVA. Daily milk yield, FCM, MUN, milk fat yield, milk fat percent, protein yield, protein percent, live weight change, or body condition score change were not affected by treatment and values were 15.8 kg, 17.2 kg, 14.9 mg dl-1, 0.72 kg, 4.56 percent, 0.59 kg, 3.77 percent, 6.67 kg, and 0.15 BCS; 15.6 kg, 17.4 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.73 kg, 4.3 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.71 percent, 1.33 kg and 0.04 BCS; 17.2 kg, 17.9 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.74 kg, 4.36 percent, 0.63 kg, 3.71 percent, 0.33 kg and 0.08 BCS; 15.6 kg, 16.4 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.33 percent, 0.60 kg, 3.83 percent, -1.46 kg and 0.11 BCS; and 15.0 kg, 16.0 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.57 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.85 percent, 8.86 kg, and 0.05 BCS, respectively for the cows fed 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100 maize to barley ratio concentrate. According to these results, barley can replace maize without significantly affecting the milk production or milk composition. None of the cows presented any visible symptoms of acidosis. As it was clear from the results in the first study that maize could replace barley the aim of study 2A was therefore focused on determining the effect of feeding different levels of such a barley-based (2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1) concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change of Jersey cows on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture (23.1 ± 2.95 percent DM, 11.1 ± 0.11 percent CP, 60.8 ± 0.58 percent NDF). Forty-five Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 15) involving different levels of concentrate (12 MJ ME and 130g CP kg-1 DM) feeding for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Milk weights were also recorded daily, and milk samples collected weekly, and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. The results of this study indicated that increasing the concentrate level from 2.4 to 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not increase the milk yield (14.0 kg, 15.2 kg, 14.4 kg; P = 0.19). The FCM production increased from 15.8 to 17.5kg (P = 0.04) as the concentrate level increased from 2.4 to 4.8kg cow-1day-1. Increasing the concentrate from 4.8 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not result in a significant increase in FCM. The milk protein percent increased significantly from 3.4 - 3.6 percent when the concentrate feeding level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1. The MUN levels were 17.09 mg dl-1, 16.03 5 mg dl-1, and 16.36 mg dl-1 for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 concentrate levels, respectively. This is well within the recommended MUN levels (12 – 18 mg dl-1) indicating that sufficient protein was fed to cows. Increasing the concentrate level from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not increase production, probably due to a higher pasture substitution rate. Supplementing large quantities of rapidly fermentable grains, such as barley, can suppress rumen pH and may have a negative effect on the rate and extent of fibre digestion in the rumen. Therefore the aim of study 2B was not only to determine the effect of feeding different levels of a barley-based concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change, but was also to determine the effect of a low (4.8 kg cow-1day-1) versus a high (7.2 kg cow-1day-1) level of barley-based concentrate supplementation on ruminal DM and NDF degradability of Westerworld ryegrass sampled from the pastures that these cows were grazing on. Sixty Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 20) involving different levels of concentrate feeding. Concentrate (12 MJ ME, 130g CP kg-1 DM) was fed at 2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 for a period of 74 days (14-day adaptation and 60-day measurement). These cows stripgrazed irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (14.7 ± 4.37 percent DM, 25.1 ± 1.53 percent CP, and 44.4 ± 2.58 percent NDF) at a daily pasture allocation of 10 kg DM cow-1. Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Twelve Jersey cows, fitted with ruminal cannulae, were randomly allocated to two of the three treatments in the production study and received either 2.4 or 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1, of the same barley-based concentrate, in a two-period crossover design. These cows strip-grazed the same irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures as the sixty cows in the production study. Each period consisted of 21 days for adaptation and seven days for data collection. Rumen liquor samples were collected every 4 hours within a 24-hour cycle and repeated once. Rumen pH was measured immediately, recorded, and the supernatant fluid preserved and frozen, pending VFA analysis. The in situ nylon bag technique was used to determine DM and NDF degradation and dried samples of Westerworld ryegrass pasture were incubated for 0, 4, 8, 12, 20, 30, 48, 72 and 96 hours. The data were fitted in the non-linear model p = a + b (1-exp-ct) (Ørskov & McDonald, 1979). Daily milk production, fat corrected milk, milk fat yield and milk fat percent were not affected by treatment and values were 17.3 kg, 18.4 kg, 0.76 kg and 4.42 percent; 19.0 kg, 20.0 kg, 0.82 kg and 4.35 percent; and 18.1 kg, 19.1 kg, 0.79 kg and 4.37 percent for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 concentrate treatments, respectively. Milk protein percentage of cows on the 7.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 was significantly higher than that of cows on 4.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 feeding level. Live weight increased significantly as the level of concentrate feeding increased and values were 17.9 kg; and 28.9 kg on the 2.4 and 7.2kg concentrate treatment, respectively. There was a significant increase in the live weight of cows that were fed 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is) in comparison to those cows that were fed 2.4 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 (as-is). This may have resulted from more nutrients being partitioned to live weight gain rather than milk production. No further response in milk production was observed when concentrate daily feeding was increased from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1. It is postulated that the higher concentrate allowance resulted in a higher substitution rate and lower DMI intake from pasture. 6 There was no significant decline in the rumen pH (6.2 ± 0.4 and 6.2 ± 0.5) when the concentrate level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is). The total VFA (118.1 ± 45.9 and 139.4 ± 45.6 mmol L-1) and isovalerate (0.009 ± 0.07 and 0.248 ± 0.52 mmol L-1) increased significantly when the concentrate was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1. No other rumen parameters were affected by treatment. Ruminal DM and NDF degradability of the Kikuyu/ryegrass pature were not affected by the level of concentrate supplementation. An increase in the concentrate level from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not reduce degradability of either DM (94.67 ± 5.97, 94.49 ± 5.09; P = 0.919) or NDF (92.15 ± 8.69, 94.4 ± 11.73; P = 0.451), respectively. Results of rumen parameters and PD values were within the range reported by Bargo et al., (2003), viz. pH 5.76 – 6.29, NH3-N concentration 8.7 – 32.2 mg dl-1, total VFA concentration 90.3 - 151.4 mmol L-1 and PD values 89.5 – 93.5 % reported by Bargo et al. (2003). According to these authors, there is no simple relationship between any amount of the concentrate supplemented, and the ruminal pH and concentrate feeding only affects the in situ ruminal digestion of pasture when it is fed, at quantities higher than 8 kg DM cow-1day-1 (Bargo et al., 2003).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The effect of ozone on the production of broiler
- Authors: Amwele, Hilma Rantilla
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens) , Ozone
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/226 , Broilers (Chickens) , Ozone
- Description: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of ozone (O3) on mature body weight (MBW), feed conversion rate (FCR), mortality rate (MR) and ammonia (NH3) production of broiler chickens (referred to as “broilers” in this thesis) under controlled conditions. Ozone was used for the purifying of air and water in order to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Two trials were conducted over a twelve week production period. In experiment 1, day old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to a control (n=130) and treatment (n=130) group. The treatment groups were exposed to ozone continuously for the entire period of the trial. Both air and water were ozonated on a 24 hours daily basis, while the control group was reared under normal commercial conditions. In experiment 2: day old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to a control (n=123) and a treatment (n=123) group. The treatment group was exposed to ozone for 3 hours per day for the entire period of the trial. Both air and water were ozonated, where the air was treated for 3 hours/day and the water for 1 hour/day during the entire production period. The control group was reared under normal commercial conditions. The results indicate that broilers exposed to continuous O3 (0.1 ppm) conditions had significantly higher (P< 0.001) mortality rates than the control group. The treatment group had a mortality rate of 55.38% compared to the 5.38% for the control group. No significant difference (P= 0. 2468) for MBW was found between the broilers that were reared in the O3 environment compared to the control iii group. Although the control group were on average 200g heavier at the end of the trial. No significant difference (p = 0. 6143) was recorded in FCR between the O3 and control groups. However the FCR of the broilers treated with O3 was lower by 100g than that of the control group. The O3 significantly (P< 0. 0001) reduced the NH3 in the treatment group. When the trial was repeated with limited exposure to an O3 environment there was no significant difference in MBW (P = 0. 0979), FCR (P = 0. 8913) and MR (P = 0. 1108) between the treatment and control groups. However, ammonia levels were lower in the treatment group compared to the control group. When the data was further analyzed comparing the two trials, the results indicated that there was no significant difference (P = 0. 4112) in the MBW for the broilers reared under normal conditions (control group) from experiment 1 and experiment 2, while a significant difference (P = 0. 0002) was recorded between the broilers reared under continuous O3 and regulated O3 conditions from experiment 1 and experiment 2 respectively. When the FCR data was analyzed using the Gompertz equation a significant difference (P = 0.0403) in the FCR of broilers reared in the control group between experiment 1 and experiment 2 was recorded (Table 8). No significant difference (P = 0.3226) in the FCR of broilers raised under O3 conditions of continuous and regulated O3 production were reported between experiment 1 and experiment 2. A highly significant difference (P = 0. 0001) in the MR of broilers reared under ozone conditions was recorded between experiment 1 and experiment 2. In experiment 1, the MR was 55.38% while in experiment 2 the MR was only 8.78%. A significant difference (P = 0.0355) was also recorded in the MR of broilers that iv were raised in the control groups between experiment 1 and experiment 2. The MR for broilers in the control group was 5.38% in experiment 1 and for experiment 2 it was 9.74%. The mortality rate of broilers raised in the control groups conditions increased by approximately 4% points or 81% between experiment 1 and experiment 2. The level (0.1 ppm) of ozone production had a limited effect on the MBW and FCR of broilers, however it is evident that ozone is toxic to broilers when they are exposed to a continuous ozonated environment. Ozone was however effective in controlling ammonia levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Amwele, Hilma Rantilla
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens) , Ozone
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/226 , Broilers (Chickens) , Ozone
- Description: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of ozone (O3) on mature body weight (MBW), feed conversion rate (FCR), mortality rate (MR) and ammonia (NH3) production of broiler chickens (referred to as “broilers” in this thesis) under controlled conditions. Ozone was used for the purifying of air and water in order to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Two trials were conducted over a twelve week production period. In experiment 1, day old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to a control (n=130) and treatment (n=130) group. The treatment groups were exposed to ozone continuously for the entire period of the trial. Both air and water were ozonated on a 24 hours daily basis, while the control group was reared under normal commercial conditions. In experiment 2: day old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to a control (n=123) and a treatment (n=123) group. The treatment group was exposed to ozone for 3 hours per day for the entire period of the trial. Both air and water were ozonated, where the air was treated for 3 hours/day and the water for 1 hour/day during the entire production period. The control group was reared under normal commercial conditions. The results indicate that broilers exposed to continuous O3 (0.1 ppm) conditions had significantly higher (P< 0.001) mortality rates than the control group. The treatment group had a mortality rate of 55.38% compared to the 5.38% for the control group. No significant difference (P= 0. 2468) for MBW was found between the broilers that were reared in the O3 environment compared to the control iii group. Although the control group were on average 200g heavier at the end of the trial. No significant difference (p = 0. 6143) was recorded in FCR between the O3 and control groups. However the FCR of the broilers treated with O3 was lower by 100g than that of the control group. The O3 significantly (P< 0. 0001) reduced the NH3 in the treatment group. When the trial was repeated with limited exposure to an O3 environment there was no significant difference in MBW (P = 0. 0979), FCR (P = 0. 8913) and MR (P = 0. 1108) between the treatment and control groups. However, ammonia levels were lower in the treatment group compared to the control group. When the data was further analyzed comparing the two trials, the results indicated that there was no significant difference (P = 0. 4112) in the MBW for the broilers reared under normal conditions (control group) from experiment 1 and experiment 2, while a significant difference (P = 0. 0002) was recorded between the broilers reared under continuous O3 and regulated O3 conditions from experiment 1 and experiment 2 respectively. When the FCR data was analyzed using the Gompertz equation a significant difference (P = 0.0403) in the FCR of broilers reared in the control group between experiment 1 and experiment 2 was recorded (Table 8). No significant difference (P = 0.3226) in the FCR of broilers raised under O3 conditions of continuous and regulated O3 production were reported between experiment 1 and experiment 2. A highly significant difference (P = 0. 0001) in the MR of broilers reared under ozone conditions was recorded between experiment 1 and experiment 2. In experiment 1, the MR was 55.38% while in experiment 2 the MR was only 8.78%. A significant difference (P = 0.0355) was also recorded in the MR of broilers that iv were raised in the control groups between experiment 1 and experiment 2. The MR for broilers in the control group was 5.38% in experiment 1 and for experiment 2 it was 9.74%. The mortality rate of broilers raised in the control groups conditions increased by approximately 4% points or 81% between experiment 1 and experiment 2. The level (0.1 ppm) of ozone production had a limited effect on the MBW and FCR of broilers, however it is evident that ozone is toxic to broilers when they are exposed to a continuous ozonated environment. Ozone was however effective in controlling ammonia levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An evaluation of the social welfare policy of the Eastern Cape provincial government
- Authors: Plaatjies, René
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social policy -- Evaluation , Social service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011328 , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social policy -- Evaluation , Social service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A background of serious disparities in past welfare policies, legislation and programmes, necessitated the need for a far-reaching new social welfare policy in South Africa. The adoption of the White Paper for Social Welfare by Parliament in February 1997, set the path for the new social developmental approach to social welfare, dealing with key substantive issues in addressing the restructuring of social welfare services, programmes and social security. The Eastern Cape Province is one of the poorer provinces in South Africa. Negative radio and print media reports on social welfare in the province in the past three years has made it clear that serious problems and disparities face the provincial department. Several of these media reports highlighted issues relating to poor service delivery and unacceptable conditions of underdevelopment and poverty still prevailing in the province. The Eastern Cape Welfare Department has been plagued by fraud and corruption, and in a report of the Eastern Cape legislature’s standing committee on welfare in 2001, it was found that fraudulent activities, corruption and misconduct by government officials are still prevalent in the welfare department. The objective of this research was to assess whether the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development (Welfare) is implementing this new social developmental approach to social welfare, as set out in the 1997 White Paper for Social Welfare.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Plaatjies, René
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social policy -- Evaluation , Social service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011328 , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social policy -- Evaluation , Social service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A background of serious disparities in past welfare policies, legislation and programmes, necessitated the need for a far-reaching new social welfare policy in South Africa. The adoption of the White Paper for Social Welfare by Parliament in February 1997, set the path for the new social developmental approach to social welfare, dealing with key substantive issues in addressing the restructuring of social welfare services, programmes and social security. The Eastern Cape Province is one of the poorer provinces in South Africa. Negative radio and print media reports on social welfare in the province in the past three years has made it clear that serious problems and disparities face the provincial department. Several of these media reports highlighted issues relating to poor service delivery and unacceptable conditions of underdevelopment and poverty still prevailing in the province. The Eastern Cape Welfare Department has been plagued by fraud and corruption, and in a report of the Eastern Cape legislature’s standing committee on welfare in 2001, it was found that fraudulent activities, corruption and misconduct by government officials are still prevalent in the welfare department. The objective of this research was to assess whether the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development (Welfare) is implementing this new social developmental approach to social welfare, as set out in the 1997 White Paper for Social Welfare.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The development of a science competency test for technikon students
- Authors: Davids, Samiega
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/87 , Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Description: In the mid-1980’s institutions of higher learning were coerced by the South African government to admit students from all races. As a result, these institutions were confronted with the need to identify preparedness for higher learning, especially amongst the ex-Department of Education and Training (DET) learners. Grade 12 results were not a sufficient predictor for ex-DET learners, and a review of current admission criteria became a necessity. This study aims to develop a suitable science entry-level test to be used as a component of an existing test battery. The test battery is used as an admission tool by the Port Elizabeth Technikon to further assess first year applicants who do not meet the normal entrance requirements for a science course. The only requirement for further assessment being Grade 12 physical science. The science entry-level test consists of a list of validated science skills and knowledge to be used to assess the skills and knowledge mastered at the time of test taking. On the basis of test scores, an assessment is made regarding the applicant’s preparedness for higher learning. This study holds the view that preparedness in students for higher learning in science can be measured by means of valid science competencies. In addition, knowledge of the level of preparedness of the applicant enables further educational support and guidance to be provided where necessary. Research which measures manifest academic ability rather than potential to learn is favoured since it is believed that the former generates psychometric evidence of that which was already mastered academically whilst the latter determines whether the student will be able to achieve under ideal conditions. The content covered by the proposed Science Competency Test was sanctioned by technikon lecturers of first year physics and chemistry courses. The content was taken from the examinable section of the Grade 11 and 12 physical science syllabi. This content is the most acceptable and fair knowledge-base a prospective science student can be expected to have mastered at school. The content was limited to those skills and knowledge believed by the lecturers to contribute to academic success in the first year. Items that tested this content were compiled and pilot tests were administered to Grade 12 physical science learners at various disadvantaged schools. The Science Competency Test was compiled from the pool of trial items after the performance of the items was statistically determined. This final Science Competency Test was completed by a sample of 179 first-time first year science students. The findings of the study were inconclusive as the Science Competency Test showed a moderate predictive ability for only one section of the sample. It further showed that the weighted matric score, WMS was not a significant predictor of future academic performance of the sample either. A discrepancy in performance amongst learners of different home languages and educational backgrounds was also noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Davids, Samiega
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/87 , Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Description: In the mid-1980’s institutions of higher learning were coerced by the South African government to admit students from all races. As a result, these institutions were confronted with the need to identify preparedness for higher learning, especially amongst the ex-Department of Education and Training (DET) learners. Grade 12 results were not a sufficient predictor for ex-DET learners, and a review of current admission criteria became a necessity. This study aims to develop a suitable science entry-level test to be used as a component of an existing test battery. The test battery is used as an admission tool by the Port Elizabeth Technikon to further assess first year applicants who do not meet the normal entrance requirements for a science course. The only requirement for further assessment being Grade 12 physical science. The science entry-level test consists of a list of validated science skills and knowledge to be used to assess the skills and knowledge mastered at the time of test taking. On the basis of test scores, an assessment is made regarding the applicant’s preparedness for higher learning. This study holds the view that preparedness in students for higher learning in science can be measured by means of valid science competencies. In addition, knowledge of the level of preparedness of the applicant enables further educational support and guidance to be provided where necessary. Research which measures manifest academic ability rather than potential to learn is favoured since it is believed that the former generates psychometric evidence of that which was already mastered academically whilst the latter determines whether the student will be able to achieve under ideal conditions. The content covered by the proposed Science Competency Test was sanctioned by technikon lecturers of first year physics and chemistry courses. The content was taken from the examinable section of the Grade 11 and 12 physical science syllabi. This content is the most acceptable and fair knowledge-base a prospective science student can be expected to have mastered at school. The content was limited to those skills and knowledge believed by the lecturers to contribute to academic success in the first year. Items that tested this content were compiled and pilot tests were administered to Grade 12 physical science learners at various disadvantaged schools. The Science Competency Test was compiled from the pool of trial items after the performance of the items was statistically determined. This final Science Competency Test was completed by a sample of 179 first-time first year science students. The findings of the study were inconclusive as the Science Competency Test showed a moderate predictive ability for only one section of the sample. It further showed that the weighted matric score, WMS was not a significant predictor of future academic performance of the sample either. A discrepancy in performance amongst learners of different home languages and educational backgrounds was also noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The evaluation of potential improvements of barton pot oxides for lead acid batteries
- Authors: Geyer, Laurence Thomas
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Lead oxides -- South Africa , Lead acid batteries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10982 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/233 , Lead oxides -- South Africa , Lead acid batteries -- South Africa
- Description: Lead Oxide (PbO) is the main material used for the preparation of the active material for the positive and negative electrodes in the lead acid battery where the electrochemical reaction that provides the electrical energy of the battery takes place. The particle size distribution and surface area characteristics of the lead oxide play a major role in the electrical performance of the completed battery. The two most commonly used processes to manufacture PbO in the lead acid battery industry are the Barton pot and the Ball mill processes. These two processes produce oxides that differ in particle size distribution, particle shape and surface area. It is generally accepted that the Ball mill process produces an oxide with a smaller mean particle size with a higher surface area and better initial electrical performance than the Barton pot process to the detriment of an initial higher capital and running cost. The study showed that it is possible to improve the surface area and particle size distribution characteristics of Barton pot oxide, by subsequently hammer milling the oxide particles before the paste manufacturing process. The results showed that there was an initial reduction in the particle size with an increase in the surface area. This increased the electrochemical performance in terms of the high rate discharge. However, further hammering of the oxide reduced the average particle size only slightly with little change in the surface area and a reduction in the electrochemical performance. The study showed that an improvement in Barton pot oxide can be achieved with a hammering of the oxide in order to obtain a uniform particle size with improved surface area and an improved high rate performance of the electrochemical cells made with such an oxide. As a comparison, the particle size and surface area characteristics of Ball mill lead oxide subjected to the hammer milling process was also studied. The results showed a similar effect to the Barton pot oxide on the particle size distribution. However, there was no appreciable change in the surface area due to the hammer milling process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Geyer, Laurence Thomas
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Lead oxides -- South Africa , Lead acid batteries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10982 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/233 , Lead oxides -- South Africa , Lead acid batteries -- South Africa
- Description: Lead Oxide (PbO) is the main material used for the preparation of the active material for the positive and negative electrodes in the lead acid battery where the electrochemical reaction that provides the electrical energy of the battery takes place. The particle size distribution and surface area characteristics of the lead oxide play a major role in the electrical performance of the completed battery. The two most commonly used processes to manufacture PbO in the lead acid battery industry are the Barton pot and the Ball mill processes. These two processes produce oxides that differ in particle size distribution, particle shape and surface area. It is generally accepted that the Ball mill process produces an oxide with a smaller mean particle size with a higher surface area and better initial electrical performance than the Barton pot process to the detriment of an initial higher capital and running cost. The study showed that it is possible to improve the surface area and particle size distribution characteristics of Barton pot oxide, by subsequently hammer milling the oxide particles before the paste manufacturing process. The results showed that there was an initial reduction in the particle size with an increase in the surface area. This increased the electrochemical performance in terms of the high rate discharge. However, further hammering of the oxide reduced the average particle size only slightly with little change in the surface area and a reduction in the electrochemical performance. The study showed that an improvement in Barton pot oxide can be achieved with a hammering of the oxide in order to obtain a uniform particle size with improved surface area and an improved high rate performance of the electrochemical cells made with such an oxide. As a comparison, the particle size and surface area characteristics of Ball mill lead oxide subjected to the hammer milling process was also studied. The results showed a similar effect to the Barton pot oxide on the particle size distribution. However, there was no appreciable change in the surface area due to the hammer milling process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The long term effects of fire frequency and season on the colophospermum mopane shrubveld of the Kruger National Park
- Lombard, Pieter Jacobus Lategan
- Authors: Lombard, Pieter Jacobus Lategan
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Mopane tree -- Effect of fires on -- South Africa -- Kruger National Park
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/257 , Mopane tree -- Effect of fires on -- South Africa -- Kruger National Park
- Description: Background : The recorded history of veld burning in the Kruger National Park (KNP) started with the appointment of Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton as warden of the Park (then the Sabie Game Reserve) in July 1912 and can be divided into five periods: From 1912 to 1926, a haphazard, and indecisive burning policy was practiced, mainly due to the perception that fire was unfavourable for the environment and because the means to combat veld fires were very meagre. From 1926 to 1948, in which period it was realized that fire was not only unavoidable over a large area such as the KNP, but also actually desirable, necessary and beneficial when applied with circumspection. During this period the capability to successfully introduce and apply a definite fire policy did not exist. From 1948 to 1956, prescribed burning was not practiced, but a network of graded firebreaks was being established (to create burning blocks), and wild fires were actively combated. From 1957 to 1993, during which period a definite prescribed burning policy was practiced, amended several times, but basically consisting of a triennial rotational system where blocks were burned by management. All fires of non-management ignition sources were combated. From 1993 to the present, when a policy of allowing lightning-ignited fires to burn freely was introduced, and fires of human origin were suppressed. The shift away from a rigid prescribed burning programme was because of the concern that the dominance of grass species characteristic of over utilised veld was a result of too frequent burning (Potgieter, 2001). Lightning fires probably played just as an important role in shaping African savanna in pre-industrial times as anthropogenic fires caused by preindustrial man. The role of post-industrial man as far as its influence on the creation of savanna is concerned is probably negligible, but significantly important in the role of maintaining savanna, although probably not more so than that of lighting fires. Fires caused by postindustrial man becomes suspect as far as the creation of savanna is concerned, because instead of the mere burning of the veld for the pure reasons of survival as practiced by pre-industrial man, a measure of commercialism crept in (Potgieter, 2001). Fire management of the KNP in pre-industrial times can be regarded in the same light as that of post-industrial times. Although the motive for burning the veld in the KNP was beyond reproach, the underlying reasoning was not. Managers’ thinking was geared towards preventing so called “devastating fires”, laying to waste large areas of the Park, not realising that this was in actual fact nature going about its business in this ecosystem. They therefore devised a system of firebreak roads, which was gradually extended to the extent that we now have more than 4000 km roads that must be maintained. This was all in the cause of preventing or managing lightning and arson fires. Given the above, a revision of the veld fire policy was extremely necessary. The mission statement hammered out during the revising process in 1993 underscored and supported the proposal put forward in 1992, that lightning fires should be recognised as a legitimate and completely natural phenomenon in the Lowveld ecosystem. This had to be weighed against the prevailing practice of combating all fires caused by lightning and non-management anthropogenic sources of fire. The essence of this policy would therefore be to allow lightning-fires to burn to their full extent i.e. if vegetation conditions (available biomass) are such that large areas will burn, then such burns will be permitted to proceed to their full extent with the provision that no more than 50% of the management unit will be allowed to burn out (no matter what the ignition source) in a specific fire season (Potgieter, 2001).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Lombard, Pieter Jacobus Lategan
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Mopane tree -- Effect of fires on -- South Africa -- Kruger National Park
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/257 , Mopane tree -- Effect of fires on -- South Africa -- Kruger National Park
- Description: Background : The recorded history of veld burning in the Kruger National Park (KNP) started with the appointment of Colonel James Stevenson-Hamilton as warden of the Park (then the Sabie Game Reserve) in July 1912 and can be divided into five periods: From 1912 to 1926, a haphazard, and indecisive burning policy was practiced, mainly due to the perception that fire was unfavourable for the environment and because the means to combat veld fires were very meagre. From 1926 to 1948, in which period it was realized that fire was not only unavoidable over a large area such as the KNP, but also actually desirable, necessary and beneficial when applied with circumspection. During this period the capability to successfully introduce and apply a definite fire policy did not exist. From 1948 to 1956, prescribed burning was not practiced, but a network of graded firebreaks was being established (to create burning blocks), and wild fires were actively combated. From 1957 to 1993, during which period a definite prescribed burning policy was practiced, amended several times, but basically consisting of a triennial rotational system where blocks were burned by management. All fires of non-management ignition sources were combated. From 1993 to the present, when a policy of allowing lightning-ignited fires to burn freely was introduced, and fires of human origin were suppressed. The shift away from a rigid prescribed burning programme was because of the concern that the dominance of grass species characteristic of over utilised veld was a result of too frequent burning (Potgieter, 2001). Lightning fires probably played just as an important role in shaping African savanna in pre-industrial times as anthropogenic fires caused by preindustrial man. The role of post-industrial man as far as its influence on the creation of savanna is concerned is probably negligible, but significantly important in the role of maintaining savanna, although probably not more so than that of lighting fires. Fires caused by postindustrial man becomes suspect as far as the creation of savanna is concerned, because instead of the mere burning of the veld for the pure reasons of survival as practiced by pre-industrial man, a measure of commercialism crept in (Potgieter, 2001). Fire management of the KNP in pre-industrial times can be regarded in the same light as that of post-industrial times. Although the motive for burning the veld in the KNP was beyond reproach, the underlying reasoning was not. Managers’ thinking was geared towards preventing so called “devastating fires”, laying to waste large areas of the Park, not realising that this was in actual fact nature going about its business in this ecosystem. They therefore devised a system of firebreak roads, which was gradually extended to the extent that we now have more than 4000 km roads that must be maintained. This was all in the cause of preventing or managing lightning and arson fires. Given the above, a revision of the veld fire policy was extremely necessary. The mission statement hammered out during the revising process in 1993 underscored and supported the proposal put forward in 1992, that lightning fires should be recognised as a legitimate and completely natural phenomenon in the Lowveld ecosystem. This had to be weighed against the prevailing practice of combating all fires caused by lightning and non-management anthropogenic sources of fire. The essence of this policy would therefore be to allow lightning-fires to burn to their full extent i.e. if vegetation conditions (available biomass) are such that large areas will burn, then such burns will be permitted to proceed to their full extent with the provision that no more than 50% of the management unit will be allowed to burn out (no matter what the ignition source) in a specific fire season (Potgieter, 2001).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
'n Kritiese evaluering na die effektiwiteit van bestuurstrategieë vir ekstensiewe wolskaapboerdery in die groter Burgersdorp omgewing
- Authors: Coetzee, Johanna Magdalena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Sheep ranches -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp -- Management , Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/109 , Sheep ranches -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp -- Management , Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp
- Description: The main objectives of this study can be divided into three categories. In the first place it refers to the determination of production- and reproduction norms for the different main production areas in the greater Burgersdorp area, to promote production. In the second place it refers to the determination of the different management styles of sheep farmers in the greater Burgersdorp area. In the third place it refers to the calculation of gross margins for sheep farming in the greater Burgersdorp area, to establish the sustainable economic position. The survey area (the greater Burgersdorp area) includes the magisterial districts of Burgersdorp, Molteno, Steynsburg and Venterstad. The four magisterial districts were divided into two main production areas namely Stormberg Highveld and Burgersdorp Lowveld. Stormberg Highveld includes Molteno and the high-lying area (highveld) of Burgersdorp. Burgersdorp Lowveld comprises Steynsburg, Venterstad and the low-lying area (lowveld) of Burgersdorp. The management strategies of sheep farmers in the survey area were determined by means of a questionnaire and statistically analysed. The economic analyses of the sheep industry (wool and meat) were performed with the Geyer computer model. In this study it showed that the Dorper farmers obtained the highest gross margin per sheep. The lowest gross margin per sheep resulted from the Vleismerino farmers. Although the composition of the gross production value and the directly allocatable variable costs compare favourably, each main production area has unique management strategies for the different sheep breeds. The different management strategies can serve as the norm for extensive sheep farming, applicable to the specific main production area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Coetzee, Johanna Magdalena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Sheep ranches -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp -- Management , Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/109 , Sheep ranches -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp -- Management , Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Burgersdorp
- Description: The main objectives of this study can be divided into three categories. In the first place it refers to the determination of production- and reproduction norms for the different main production areas in the greater Burgersdorp area, to promote production. In the second place it refers to the determination of the different management styles of sheep farmers in the greater Burgersdorp area. In the third place it refers to the calculation of gross margins for sheep farming in the greater Burgersdorp area, to establish the sustainable economic position. The survey area (the greater Burgersdorp area) includes the magisterial districts of Burgersdorp, Molteno, Steynsburg and Venterstad. The four magisterial districts were divided into two main production areas namely Stormberg Highveld and Burgersdorp Lowveld. Stormberg Highveld includes Molteno and the high-lying area (highveld) of Burgersdorp. Burgersdorp Lowveld comprises Steynsburg, Venterstad and the low-lying area (lowveld) of Burgersdorp. The management strategies of sheep farmers in the survey area were determined by means of a questionnaire and statistically analysed. The economic analyses of the sheep industry (wool and meat) were performed with the Geyer computer model. In this study it showed that the Dorper farmers obtained the highest gross margin per sheep. The lowest gross margin per sheep resulted from the Vleismerino farmers. Although the composition of the gross production value and the directly allocatable variable costs compare favourably, each main production area has unique management strategies for the different sheep breeds. The different management strategies can serve as the norm for extensive sheep farming, applicable to the specific main production area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An investigation of the effect of time of pruning on the growth and fruiting of lemons [Citrus limon(L.) Burmann f.] cv. Eureka
- Authors: Pittaway, Timothy Michael
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Lemon , Pruning , Fruit-culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10974 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/106 , Lemon , Pruning , Fruit-culture
- Description: Pruning has been used to reduce tree size, allow light penetration into trees, improve yield, improve fruit size and fruit quality, overcome alternate bearing, assist fruit harvest, and assist pest and disease control. The use of pruning has increased due to improving agricultural management techniques such as high planting densities, use of mechanical machinery in orchards and the need for effective pesticide and pathological chemical spray applications. The main objective of this study was to obtain a practical means of manipulating lemon trees at the right time. Pruning at the correct time to cultivate productive trees that produce quality fruit would have financial benefits. Lemon fruit quality is dependent on market demand and involves a number of features such as fruit shelf life, rind thickness, fruit size, rind colour, and juice content. The study was conducted on ’Eureka’ lemon trees budded on C. volkameriana rootstock, bearing the fifth and sixth commercial crops in 1999 and 2000 respectively. Twelve monthly pruning treatments per year were conducted on one row of trees starting in December 1997 (site 1) and repeated in the second year on the adjacent row of the same orchard starting in December 1998 (site 2). Selective pruning heading cuts were applied below the intercalation on the intercalary units. Potential branch bearing units were tagged and assessed during the harvest and flowering periods. Summer pruning between 16 to 19 months before the subsequent April/May harvest, resulted in the longest and most complex (intercalation sprouted per axil) vegetative response. The estimated crop value indicated that summer pruning treatments produced the highest income. This was ascribed not to differences in fruit size or quality, but to an increase in yield. The industry’s trend is to prune citrus from post-harvest to the pre-bloom stage. Results from this study have provided a beneficial cultural practice to prune during the summer months and provides a practice to optimise farm production and profit margins.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Pittaway, Timothy Michael
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Lemon , Pruning , Fruit-culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10974 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/106 , Lemon , Pruning , Fruit-culture
- Description: Pruning has been used to reduce tree size, allow light penetration into trees, improve yield, improve fruit size and fruit quality, overcome alternate bearing, assist fruit harvest, and assist pest and disease control. The use of pruning has increased due to improving agricultural management techniques such as high planting densities, use of mechanical machinery in orchards and the need for effective pesticide and pathological chemical spray applications. The main objective of this study was to obtain a practical means of manipulating lemon trees at the right time. Pruning at the correct time to cultivate productive trees that produce quality fruit would have financial benefits. Lemon fruit quality is dependent on market demand and involves a number of features such as fruit shelf life, rind thickness, fruit size, rind colour, and juice content. The study was conducted on ’Eureka’ lemon trees budded on C. volkameriana rootstock, bearing the fifth and sixth commercial crops in 1999 and 2000 respectively. Twelve monthly pruning treatments per year were conducted on one row of trees starting in December 1997 (site 1) and repeated in the second year on the adjacent row of the same orchard starting in December 1998 (site 2). Selective pruning heading cuts were applied below the intercalation on the intercalary units. Potential branch bearing units were tagged and assessed during the harvest and flowering periods. Summer pruning between 16 to 19 months before the subsequent April/May harvest, resulted in the longest and most complex (intercalation sprouted per axil) vegetative response. The estimated crop value indicated that summer pruning treatments produced the highest income. This was ascribed not to differences in fruit size or quality, but to an increase in yield. The industry’s trend is to prune citrus from post-harvest to the pre-bloom stage. Results from this study have provided a beneficial cultural practice to prune during the summer months and provides a practice to optimise farm production and profit margins.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Identifying the need for the development of an instrument to determine senior phase teachers' science-assessment competence
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/100 , Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Description: The focus of this study is the competences expected of teachers in the senior phase to assess the Natural Sciences learning area. In order to be in line with the new developments, the South African science teacher will need relevant assessment training in order to utilise appropriate techniques that are in line with the new educational philosophy. The question arises: What competences do teachers need for assessing science in the senior phase? An ethnographic case study was implemented as research methodology in the descriptive research paradigm. The investigation comprised observing the classroom practices of a sample of three senior phase science teachers in two primary schools and in one secondary school in the Port Elizabeth region. The data obtained from the observations were triangulated with related artefacts produced by both the teachers and the learners in each case. In order to establish these expected competences a document analysis was done from a selection of South African documents. The descriptions of the real life assessment practices of the sample of science teachers were then compared with the competences expected by the South African education system. The comparison between the real-life assessment practices and the expected practices concurred with Shepard’s (2000, p.12) belief that the abilities needed to implement classroom assessment “are daunting”. The classroom-based assessment practices of the sample of teachers revealed a variety of assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The needs of these teachers are so diversified and intense that individualised professional development is needed if sustained implementation of the new curriculum and accompanying assessment competences is to be facilitated. The research established the need to develop an instrument that the science teachers can use to assess their own competence. There should be training modules drawn up in line with this instrument. Teachers should be able to choose the professional development modules that would address their own unique needs
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/100 , Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Description: The focus of this study is the competences expected of teachers in the senior phase to assess the Natural Sciences learning area. In order to be in line with the new developments, the South African science teacher will need relevant assessment training in order to utilise appropriate techniques that are in line with the new educational philosophy. The question arises: What competences do teachers need for assessing science in the senior phase? An ethnographic case study was implemented as research methodology in the descriptive research paradigm. The investigation comprised observing the classroom practices of a sample of three senior phase science teachers in two primary schools and in one secondary school in the Port Elizabeth region. The data obtained from the observations were triangulated with related artefacts produced by both the teachers and the learners in each case. In order to establish these expected competences a document analysis was done from a selection of South African documents. The descriptions of the real life assessment practices of the sample of science teachers were then compared with the competences expected by the South African education system. The comparison between the real-life assessment practices and the expected practices concurred with Shepard’s (2000, p.12) belief that the abilities needed to implement classroom assessment “are daunting”. The classroom-based assessment practices of the sample of teachers revealed a variety of assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The needs of these teachers are so diversified and intense that individualised professional development is needed if sustained implementation of the new curriculum and accompanying assessment competences is to be facilitated. The research established the need to develop an instrument that the science teachers can use to assess their own competence. There should be training modules drawn up in line with this instrument. Teachers should be able to choose the professional development modules that would address their own unique needs
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Selecting an appropriate process for the formulating of an operations strategy for Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in a changed market environment
- Authors: Jeena, Umesh
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011325 , Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was aimed in assisting the management of Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in selecting an appropriate process for the formulation of an operations strategy. The author embarked on a literature survey to gain understanding of the challenges that are occurring in the market environment. The theories and techniques around operational strategies were extensively researched in an effort to effectively and efficiently assist the management of Firestone in achieving a competitive advantage over rival competitors. Other areas of focus include the content, development, principles and concepts in developing an operations strategy. The author details the process of the formulation of an operations strategy as well as the discussion of four models/procedures deployed in organisations that would enhance strategy formulation. It is evident from the findings of the empirical study that a high percentage of the respondents “agree” that the strategy deployed within Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant is appropriate, yet an alarmingly high percentage believe it to be “ineffective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Jeena, Umesh
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011325 , Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was aimed in assisting the management of Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in selecting an appropriate process for the formulation of an operations strategy. The author embarked on a literature survey to gain understanding of the challenges that are occurring in the market environment. The theories and techniques around operational strategies were extensively researched in an effort to effectively and efficiently assist the management of Firestone in achieving a competitive advantage over rival competitors. Other areas of focus include the content, development, principles and concepts in developing an operations strategy. The author details the process of the formulation of an operations strategy as well as the discussion of four models/procedures deployed in organisations that would enhance strategy formulation. It is evident from the findings of the empirical study that a high percentage of the respondents “agree” that the strategy deployed within Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant is appropriate, yet an alarmingly high percentage believe it to be “ineffective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a model for the assessment of the subject entrepreneurship and business management at the N4 level using an outcomes based education approach
- Authors: Olivier, Marina
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10781 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/86 , Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Description: The focus of this study is on assessment in an Outcomes Based Education environment. The question arises as to how assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 can be changed to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach. Action research was used as the research methodology and the findings were reported as case studies. A sample of three colleges in the Eastern Cape was chosen to take part in the study. Only two modules of the Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 syllabus were adapted to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach, as the students still had to write the normal external examination at the end of the semester as required by the Department of Education. In the first two cycles the participants implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom using only the resources available at the college for the old education system. During the third cycle the researcher implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom under the same circumstances, but with the advantage that the researcher benefited from the reflections of the first two cycles. In order for assessment to meet the requirements of an Outcomes Based Education approach, it was necessary to change teaching practices as well. Important aspects such as group work, new assessment methods, the role of resource materials and the training of lecturers were included in the study. At the end of the third cycle a model for the assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 was developed. Recommendations on aspects such as students, lecturers, resources and assessment were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Olivier, Marina
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10781 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/86 , Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Description: The focus of this study is on assessment in an Outcomes Based Education environment. The question arises as to how assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 can be changed to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach. Action research was used as the research methodology and the findings were reported as case studies. A sample of three colleges in the Eastern Cape was chosen to take part in the study. Only two modules of the Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 syllabus were adapted to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach, as the students still had to write the normal external examination at the end of the semester as required by the Department of Education. In the first two cycles the participants implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom using only the resources available at the college for the old education system. During the third cycle the researcher implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom under the same circumstances, but with the advantage that the researcher benefited from the reflections of the first two cycles. In order for assessment to meet the requirements of an Outcomes Based Education approach, it was necessary to change teaching practices as well. Important aspects such as group work, new assessment methods, the role of resource materials and the training of lecturers were included in the study. At the end of the third cycle a model for the assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 was developed. Recommendations on aspects such as students, lecturers, resources and assessment were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of effective promotional strategies to market public FET/Technical Colleges in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Gaika, Nandipha Gloria
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Business Management , Marketing research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006191 , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Business Management , Marketing research -- South Africa
- Description: Education is a powerful and pervasive agent of change. Therefore, it is the key to unlock the doors to development and modernisation. Currently, business and communities knowledge very little about what the FET/Technical College is offering and its importance to the society as whole. Therefore there is a great need to market the technical sector so that the community is knowledgeable about the FET/Technical Colleges. The research conducted focuses on which promotional strategies are effective in marketing the FET Colleges. In order to make technical college students marketable it is necessary to market the institutions effectively so that all the stakeholders can be aware of what technical colleges can offer. Because of high competition in this industry, it is of vital importance not to be out-marketed by competitors by keeping abreast of new trends in promotional strategies. In order to obtain more relevant information about promotional strategies a literature study was conducted to develop a questionnaire to survey the importance of promotional strategies and determine which promotional strategies are being used by the FET Colleges. The East-London, Queenstown and Ezibeleni Public FET Colleges form the respondents. From each college five academic staff, two management members and five students formed the respondents. Community members, business community members, the Department of Education and the Department of Labour representatives were also included in the sample from each of the selected FET Colleges. The findings of the survey revealed the high level of agreement in terms of the importance of the promotional strategies identified in the literature study with the exception of some promotional strategies, which were identified as not compatible with the FET target market. The study recommended that further research be done on a larger sample size focusing on particular stakeholders eg. students of the FET Colleges in a specific area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Gaika, Nandipha Gloria
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Business Management , Marketing research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006191 , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Business Management , Marketing research -- South Africa
- Description: Education is a powerful and pervasive agent of change. Therefore, it is the key to unlock the doors to development and modernisation. Currently, business and communities knowledge very little about what the FET/Technical College is offering and its importance to the society as whole. Therefore there is a great need to market the technical sector so that the community is knowledgeable about the FET/Technical Colleges. The research conducted focuses on which promotional strategies are effective in marketing the FET Colleges. In order to make technical college students marketable it is necessary to market the institutions effectively so that all the stakeholders can be aware of what technical colleges can offer. Because of high competition in this industry, it is of vital importance not to be out-marketed by competitors by keeping abreast of new trends in promotional strategies. In order to obtain more relevant information about promotional strategies a literature study was conducted to develop a questionnaire to survey the importance of promotional strategies and determine which promotional strategies are being used by the FET Colleges. The East-London, Queenstown and Ezibeleni Public FET Colleges form the respondents. From each college five academic staff, two management members and five students formed the respondents. Community members, business community members, the Department of Education and the Department of Labour representatives were also included in the sample from each of the selected FET Colleges. The findings of the survey revealed the high level of agreement in terms of the importance of the promotional strategies identified in the literature study with the exception of some promotional strategies, which were identified as not compatible with the FET target market. The study recommended that further research be done on a larger sample size focusing on particular stakeholders eg. students of the FET Colleges in a specific area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
'n Besluitnemings ondersteuningsmodel vir die bepaling van die mees geskikte wisselboustelsel-ritme vir gemengde graanboerderye in die Koeberg
- Authors: Potgieter, F J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Grain -- South Africa , Crop rotation
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43 , Grain -- South Africa , Crop rotation
- Description: Weens die unieke eiesoortigheid van die mens is sy behoeftes vanselfsprekend uiters divers. Wat vir die een persoon prioriteit is, mag vir sy buurman geensins belangrik wees nie. Dit is egter ook ’n gegewe, dat die mens heelwat gemeenskaplike ervarings, emosies en behoeftes deel. Een hiervan is die behoefte wat hy het om te weet dat die besluit wat hy gaan of wil neem die regte een binne die konteks van sy keuse mag wees. Die woord ‘behoefte’ kan waarskynlik in hierdie geval vervang word met die begrip ‘genade’. Sonder om 'n platvorm vir debat te skep, word die stelling gehandhaaf dat ‘genade’ slegs van die Skepper afkomstig is. Met hierdie stelling as agtergrond was dit 'n minder aangename ervaring om vir feitlik twintig jaar te moes toekyk hoe koringboere hul besluite, veral met betrekking tot die samestelling van wisselboustelsels, moes neem, klaarblyklik in totale gebrek aan die gawe van ‘genade’. Nodeloos om te sê, met gepaardgaande negatiewe gevolge. Die meer gemaklike verontskuldiging is om te redeneer dat ons Skepper relatief suinig is met die uitdeel van sy ‘genade’. Alvorens die begrip van Prediker 10:10 nog nie ten volle begryp is nie, kan so 'n stelling dalk makliker gemaak word. Hierdie gedeelte uit die Skrif sê in werklikheid die teenoorgestelde – dat God baie vrygewig is met Sy ‘genade’, maar dat die mens sy gesonde verstand moet gebruik om dit ten volle te benut. Die wens is dat hierdie studie, 'n deel sal uitmaak van die proses om die byl skerp te maak om sodoende die houtkap-proses effektief uit te voer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Potgieter, F J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Grain -- South Africa , Crop rotation
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43 , Grain -- South Africa , Crop rotation
- Description: Weens die unieke eiesoortigheid van die mens is sy behoeftes vanselfsprekend uiters divers. Wat vir die een persoon prioriteit is, mag vir sy buurman geensins belangrik wees nie. Dit is egter ook ’n gegewe, dat die mens heelwat gemeenskaplike ervarings, emosies en behoeftes deel. Een hiervan is die behoefte wat hy het om te weet dat die besluit wat hy gaan of wil neem die regte een binne die konteks van sy keuse mag wees. Die woord ‘behoefte’ kan waarskynlik in hierdie geval vervang word met die begrip ‘genade’. Sonder om 'n platvorm vir debat te skep, word die stelling gehandhaaf dat ‘genade’ slegs van die Skepper afkomstig is. Met hierdie stelling as agtergrond was dit 'n minder aangename ervaring om vir feitlik twintig jaar te moes toekyk hoe koringboere hul besluite, veral met betrekking tot die samestelling van wisselboustelsels, moes neem, klaarblyklik in totale gebrek aan die gawe van ‘genade’. Nodeloos om te sê, met gepaardgaande negatiewe gevolge. Die meer gemaklike verontskuldiging is om te redeneer dat ons Skepper relatief suinig is met die uitdeel van sy ‘genade’. Alvorens die begrip van Prediker 10:10 nog nie ten volle begryp is nie, kan so 'n stelling dalk makliker gemaak word. Hierdie gedeelte uit die Skrif sê in werklikheid die teenoorgestelde – dat God baie vrygewig is met Sy ‘genade’, maar dat die mens sy gesonde verstand moet gebruik om dit ten volle te benut. Die wens is dat hierdie studie, 'n deel sal uitmaak van die proses om die byl skerp te maak om sodoende die houtkap-proses effektief uit te voer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001