The development of a counselling intervention for people living HIV and AIDS experiencing stress-related psychological conditions in the Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Twaise, Nomvula Virginia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7927 , vital:24322
- Description: People living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) suffer from a number of stress-related psychological disorders. The aim of this study was to develop an integrative intervention, which combined Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Body-Mind Therapy and Multicultural perspectives to assist health care workers in identifying and treating stressrelated psychological disorders among people living with HIV and AIDS. The study employed an intervention research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The quantitative data was collected from PLHIV attending HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) and Anti-retroviral therapy clinics in the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM) of the Eastern Cape Province. The qualitative data was collected from the health care workers of the selected study sites. Purposive sampling was used to select the study sample. Instruments used included a biographical questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Medical Outcome Study- HIV (MOS-HIV) and focus group interviews to gather data for the development of an intervention model that would address reported stress-related psychological disorders. Findings showed that people living with HIV and AIDS endure stress in their lives on daily basis rather than episodes of severe or clinical depression. Many of the PLHIV are dealing with a number of psychosocial problems that compromise their quality of life and health status. In conclusion, the study illustratively interpreted and discussed the results in relation to the objectives of the study. The study recommends that PLHIV should be exposed to stress management programmes, and health care workers (HCWs) should be offered training in basic counselling skills, stress management and/or debriefing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Twaise, Nomvula Virginia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7927 , vital:24322
- Description: People living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) suffer from a number of stress-related psychological disorders. The aim of this study was to develop an integrative intervention, which combined Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Body-Mind Therapy and Multicultural perspectives to assist health care workers in identifying and treating stressrelated psychological disorders among people living with HIV and AIDS. The study employed an intervention research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The quantitative data was collected from PLHIV attending HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) and Anti-retroviral therapy clinics in the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM) of the Eastern Cape Province. The qualitative data was collected from the health care workers of the selected study sites. Purposive sampling was used to select the study sample. Instruments used included a biographical questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Medical Outcome Study- HIV (MOS-HIV) and focus group interviews to gather data for the development of an intervention model that would address reported stress-related psychological disorders. Findings showed that people living with HIV and AIDS endure stress in their lives on daily basis rather than episodes of severe or clinical depression. Many of the PLHIV are dealing with a number of psychosocial problems that compromise their quality of life and health status. In conclusion, the study illustratively interpreted and discussed the results in relation to the objectives of the study. The study recommends that PLHIV should be exposed to stress management programmes, and health care workers (HCWs) should be offered training in basic counselling skills, stress management and/or debriefing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a discovery and control environment for networked audio devices based on a study of current audio control protocols
- Authors: Eales, Andrew Arnold
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/539 , vital:19968
- Description: This dissertation develops a standard device model for networked audio devices and introduces a novel discovery and control environment that uses the developed device model. The proposed standard device model is derived from a study of current audio control protocols. Both the functional capabilities and design principles of audio control protocols are investigated with an emphasis on Open Sound Control, SNMP and IEC-62379, AES64, CopperLan and UPnP. An abstract model of networked audio devices is developed, and the model is implemented in each of the previously mentioned control protocols. This model is also used within a novel discovery and control environment designed around a distributed associative memory termed an object space. This environment challenges the accepted notions of the functionality provided by a control protocol. The study concludes by comparing the salient features of the different control protocols encountered in this study. Different approaches to control protocol design are considered, and several design heuristics for control protocols are proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Eales, Andrew Arnold
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/539 , vital:19968
- Description: This dissertation develops a standard device model for networked audio devices and introduces a novel discovery and control environment that uses the developed device model. The proposed standard device model is derived from a study of current audio control protocols. Both the functional capabilities and design principles of audio control protocols are investigated with an emphasis on Open Sound Control, SNMP and IEC-62379, AES64, CopperLan and UPnP. An abstract model of networked audio devices is developed, and the model is implemented in each of the previously mentioned control protocols. This model is also used within a novel discovery and control environment designed around a distributed associative memory termed an object space. This environment challenges the accepted notions of the functionality provided by a control protocol. The study concludes by comparing the salient features of the different control protocols encountered in this study. Different approaches to control protocol design are considered, and several design heuristics for control protocols are proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a green energy sector model for the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
- Ramagoma, Mbavhalelo Justice
- Authors: Ramagoma, Mbavhalelo Justice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Clean energy industries , Climatic changes , Greenhouse gases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5422 , vital:20839
- Description: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, like most parts of the African continent, faces significant modern energy services access challenges. It is estimated that less than 45% of the SADC region’s populace have access to reliable modern energy forms and the situation is worse in rural areas where access is approximately 30%. Poor energy security is exacerbated by electricity power cuts and load shedding in almost all of the member states in the region. With the advent of battery storage, all forms of green energy have the potential to contribute to the shortfall in the supply of peaking power required to meet the daily (morning and evenings) and seasonal (winter) peaks when most power is required on the grid network. The region is endowed with vast green (renewables/low carbon or clean) energy resources. The purpose of this study is to expand the empirical body of research and knowledge on factors that contribute to widespread access success to green energy in the SADC region. Investments into green energy resources require an understanding of the unique characteristics of the energy sector in the region. In order to achieve this, a conceptual theoretical model was developed and tested empirically. Factors that influence green energy access success were identified through literature reviews and discussions with energy practitioners. All identified factors were then operationalised by carefully defining them in the context of the study. In order to test the proposed theoretical model and the hypothesised relationships, a structured questionnaire was developed and sent to energy practitioners from various sections of the energy sector in the region. STATISTICA 12 was employed to analyse relationships between variables and responses between identified groups. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (Pearson r) was employed to determine correlations between variables. Conclusions about hypotheses six (6) to fifteen (15) were made based on correlations between variables. T-tests were employed to make inferences about the views of various categories of respondents with regard to the twelve (12) identified variables. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) examined associations between the dependent and independent variables with the identified categories of respondents and conclusions about hypotheses one (1) to five (5) and sixteen (16) were also made. The study finds that policy and the regulatory environment are still the main driving force behind energy access in the region. Power generation is managed by authorities’ power utility companies. Unbundling of power utilities supported by new energy business and operating models to accommodate mini and off grid power plants is found to be a key to green energy access in the region. The energy market is transforming in favour of independent power producers (IPPs) and consumers will significantly influence energy access decisions in the future. Green energy power storage to overcome intermittency will feature prominently in the success of green energy access in the region. Widespread access success to green energy will be attained when green energy access is reliable, affordable, efficient, and socially acceptable, meet the demand and reduces environmental pollution. The study recommends that strategic green energy planning must incorporate green energy infrastructure development, projects finance and human capacity development as priorities amongst SADC region’s member countries. Regional energy access enabling institutions must be strengthened; energy policies implemented with vigour and private sector participation enhanced in an integrated energy market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a green energy sector model for the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
- Authors: Ramagoma, Mbavhalelo Justice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Clean energy industries , Climatic changes , Greenhouse gases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5422 , vital:20839
- Description: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, like most parts of the African continent, faces significant modern energy services access challenges. It is estimated that less than 45% of the SADC region’s populace have access to reliable modern energy forms and the situation is worse in rural areas where access is approximately 30%. Poor energy security is exacerbated by electricity power cuts and load shedding in almost all of the member states in the region. With the advent of battery storage, all forms of green energy have the potential to contribute to the shortfall in the supply of peaking power required to meet the daily (morning and evenings) and seasonal (winter) peaks when most power is required on the grid network. The region is endowed with vast green (renewables/low carbon or clean) energy resources. The purpose of this study is to expand the empirical body of research and knowledge on factors that contribute to widespread access success to green energy in the SADC region. Investments into green energy resources require an understanding of the unique characteristics of the energy sector in the region. In order to achieve this, a conceptual theoretical model was developed and tested empirically. Factors that influence green energy access success were identified through literature reviews and discussions with energy practitioners. All identified factors were then operationalised by carefully defining them in the context of the study. In order to test the proposed theoretical model and the hypothesised relationships, a structured questionnaire was developed and sent to energy practitioners from various sections of the energy sector in the region. STATISTICA 12 was employed to analyse relationships between variables and responses between identified groups. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (Pearson r) was employed to determine correlations between variables. Conclusions about hypotheses six (6) to fifteen (15) were made based on correlations between variables. T-tests were employed to make inferences about the views of various categories of respondents with regard to the twelve (12) identified variables. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) examined associations between the dependent and independent variables with the identified categories of respondents and conclusions about hypotheses one (1) to five (5) and sixteen (16) were also made. The study finds that policy and the regulatory environment are still the main driving force behind energy access in the region. Power generation is managed by authorities’ power utility companies. Unbundling of power utilities supported by new energy business and operating models to accommodate mini and off grid power plants is found to be a key to green energy access in the region. The energy market is transforming in favour of independent power producers (IPPs) and consumers will significantly influence energy access decisions in the future. Green energy power storage to overcome intermittency will feature prominently in the success of green energy access in the region. Widespread access success to green energy will be attained when green energy access is reliable, affordable, efficient, and socially acceptable, meet the demand and reduces environmental pollution. The study recommends that strategic green energy planning must incorporate green energy infrastructure development, projects finance and human capacity development as priorities amongst SADC region’s member countries. Regional energy access enabling institutions must be strengthened; energy policies implemented with vigour and private sector participation enhanced in an integrated energy market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa
- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a student housing policy in the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mhlonyane, Asisipo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student housing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Housing policy -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Housing development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11574 , vital:26939
- Description: The rapid increase in student enrolment in universities has brought about a number of concerns, including off campus student housing as Institutions of Higher Learning are unable to accommodate all students on campus. Due to the extremely small number of students that are currently being accommodated on campus, many students are forced to find accommodation off campus. Property owners nearby Institutions of Higher Learning have begun letting their homes to students for economic gain. Housing of students has become a new business venture for many surrounding houses and large buildings. This study examined some of the problems associated with non-accredited accommodation in Summerstrand in order to provide recommendations towards a policy for off campus student accommodation. The study investigated the experiences of both students and landlords in order to establish some of the requirements a property owner needs to meet in order to be legible to house students. Ultimately the study will make recommendations for an effective policy for off-campus student accommodation in the Nelson Mandela Bay. An effective policy for the development of student housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay needs to be formulated as students can be exploited by landlords and landlords can exploited by students. The study identified 4 particular areas of concern namely rent, security, facilities and maintenance; and provided recommendations for the policy for off-campus accommodation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mhlonyane, Asisipo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student housing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Housing policy -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Housing development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11574 , vital:26939
- Description: The rapid increase in student enrolment in universities has brought about a number of concerns, including off campus student housing as Institutions of Higher Learning are unable to accommodate all students on campus. Due to the extremely small number of students that are currently being accommodated on campus, many students are forced to find accommodation off campus. Property owners nearby Institutions of Higher Learning have begun letting their homes to students for economic gain. Housing of students has become a new business venture for many surrounding houses and large buildings. This study examined some of the problems associated with non-accredited accommodation in Summerstrand in order to provide recommendations towards a policy for off campus student accommodation. The study investigated the experiences of both students and landlords in order to establish some of the requirements a property owner needs to meet in order to be legible to house students. Ultimately the study will make recommendations for an effective policy for off-campus student accommodation in the Nelson Mandela Bay. An effective policy for the development of student housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay needs to be formulated as students can be exploited by landlords and landlords can exploited by students. The study identified 4 particular areas of concern namely rent, security, facilities and maintenance; and provided recommendations for the policy for off-campus accommodation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of boiler control models for the optimization of boiler efficiency
- Authors: Kellerman, Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Boilers Boiler-making industry , Steam-boilers Mechatronics Power electronics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48014 , vital:40463
- Description: With Eskom’s fleet rapidly reaching end of life and maintenance outages becoming more frequent, it has become more critical to be able to determine transient effects of auxiliary losses and system responses due to instabilities. A low mono-nitrogen oxide (low-NOx) burner replacement project has recently been completed at Camden power station in Ermelo. It has thus deemed itself as a perfect candidate for a model which can be used to understand the new systems’ response during transient scenarios. The aim is to develop a boiler control model to be used for simulation of various process conditions and failure scenarios in order to predict the boiler plants’ behaviour and improve its availability. Research was done on common boiler control practices and modelling of boiler control. A theoretical boiler control model was developed based on the Camden power station’s control system specification. The computational model of the boiler control was implemented in Flownex® simulation environment, which was found to be particular useful for modelling industrial applications. A number of simulations with the computational model were performed and the results were compared against the historic plant data showing good correlation. In parallel, a thermo-fluid model of the boiler was developed using Flownex® by a Masters student at the University of Cape Town, which was then integrated with the control model. The combined Flownex model was used for simulation of the following important cases: a mill trip, a Forced Draught fan trip and load changes. The obtained results show good correlation with the real plant data, indicating that the developed computational model can be considered accurate for Camden’s particular type of boiler and its control. Hence, it is envisaged that the developed combined Flownex model can be applied for simulation of the boilers of the Camden power station.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kellerman, Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Boilers Boiler-making industry , Steam-boilers Mechatronics Power electronics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48014 , vital:40463
- Description: With Eskom’s fleet rapidly reaching end of life and maintenance outages becoming more frequent, it has become more critical to be able to determine transient effects of auxiliary losses and system responses due to instabilities. A low mono-nitrogen oxide (low-NOx) burner replacement project has recently been completed at Camden power station in Ermelo. It has thus deemed itself as a perfect candidate for a model which can be used to understand the new systems’ response during transient scenarios. The aim is to develop a boiler control model to be used for simulation of various process conditions and failure scenarios in order to predict the boiler plants’ behaviour and improve its availability. Research was done on common boiler control practices and modelling of boiler control. A theoretical boiler control model was developed based on the Camden power station’s control system specification. The computational model of the boiler control was implemented in Flownex® simulation environment, which was found to be particular useful for modelling industrial applications. A number of simulations with the computational model were performed and the results were compared against the historic plant data showing good correlation. In parallel, a thermo-fluid model of the boiler was developed using Flownex® by a Masters student at the University of Cape Town, which was then integrated with the control model. The combined Flownex model was used for simulation of the following important cases: a mill trip, a Forced Draught fan trip and load changes. The obtained results show good correlation with the real plant data, indicating that the developed computational model can be considered accurate for Camden’s particular type of boiler and its control. Hence, it is envisaged that the developed combined Flownex model can be applied for simulation of the boilers of the Camden power station.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of captopril pellets using the principles of quality by design
- Veerubhotla, Hari Mani Krishna
- Authors: Veerubhotla, Hari Mani Krishna
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64769 , vital:28599
- Description: Expected release date-May 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Veerubhotla, Hari Mani Krishna
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64769 , vital:28599
- Description: Expected release date-May 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of computational biology in South Africa: successes achieved and lessons learnt
- Mulder, Nicola J, Christoffels, Alan, De Oliveira, Tulio, Gamieldien, Junaid, Hazelhurst, Scott, Joubert, Fourie, Kumuthini, Judit, Pillay, Ché S, Snoep, Jacky L, Tastan Bishop, Özlem, Tiffin, Nicki
- Authors: Mulder, Nicola J , Christoffels, Alan , De Oliveira, Tulio , Gamieldien, Junaid , Hazelhurst, Scott , Joubert, Fourie , Kumuthini, Judit , Pillay, Ché S , Snoep, Jacky L , Tastan Bishop, Özlem , Tiffin, Nicki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148347 , vital:38731 , DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004395
- Description: Bioinformatics is now a critical skill in many research and commercial environments as biological data are increasing in both size and complexity. South African researchers recognized this need in the mid-1990s and responded by working with the government as well as international bodies to develop initiatives to build bioinformatics capacity in the country. Significant injections of support from these bodies provided a springboard for the establishment of computational biology units at multiple universities throughout the country, which took on teaching, basic research and support roles. Several challenges were encountered, for example with unreliability of funding, lack of skills, and lack of infrastructure. However, the bioinformatics community worked together to overcome these, and South Africa is now arguably the leading country in bioinformatics on the African continent. Here we discuss how the discipline developed in the country, highlighting the challenges, successes, and lessons learnt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mulder, Nicola J , Christoffels, Alan , De Oliveira, Tulio , Gamieldien, Junaid , Hazelhurst, Scott , Joubert, Fourie , Kumuthini, Judit , Pillay, Ché S , Snoep, Jacky L , Tastan Bishop, Özlem , Tiffin, Nicki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148347 , vital:38731 , DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004395
- Description: Bioinformatics is now a critical skill in many research and commercial environments as biological data are increasing in both size and complexity. South African researchers recognized this need in the mid-1990s and responded by working with the government as well as international bodies to develop initiatives to build bioinformatics capacity in the country. Significant injections of support from these bodies provided a springboard for the establishment of computational biology units at multiple universities throughout the country, which took on teaching, basic research and support roles. Several challenges were encountered, for example with unreliability of funding, lack of skills, and lack of infrastructure. However, the bioinformatics community worked together to overcome these, and South Africa is now arguably the leading country in bioinformatics on the African continent. Here we discuss how the discipline developed in the country, highlighting the challenges, successes, and lessons learnt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of rhenium nanoradiopharmaceuticals
- Authors: Ntsimango, Songeziwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rhenium -- South Africa Radiopharmaceuticals -- South Africa , Nanoparticles -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13017 , vital:27144
- Description: The dissertation details the experimental work on the attempt to develop rhenium(V)phthalocyanine complexes directly from its +7 oxidation state (perrhenate). Different reducing agents (PPh3, Na2S2O5 and NaBH4) were employed and consequently, different results were acquired, such as rhenium(V)-mediated oxidative hydrolysis of the phthalocyanines (Pcs), the formation of a rhenium-phthalocyanine complex and phthalocyanine-capped nanoparticles. The rhenium nanoparticles that were formed were optimized from a synthesis point of view and, cancer localizing ability of the rhenium nanoparticles was investigated. The complexes were synthesized through direct metalation of pre-formed metal-free phthalocyanines using the “cold isotopes” of the rhenium metal. Rhenium nanoparticles (Re NPs) were synthesized in aqueous saline medium so as to imitate the environment on which Re is produced from its reactor. The nanoparticles (NPs) were capped with phthalocyanines which were covalently biofunctionalized with a folic acid moiety to enhance the targeting ability of the Re NPs. These NP systems were characterised with techniques such as ultraviolet-visible UV-Vis spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy TEM. Cytotoxicity of the NPs was tested against four different cell lines and subsequently their cytotoxicity profiles were elucidated, and the profiles shown a dose-dependent responsealthough the results in some cell lines were unclear. Their fluorescence properties were also studied to provide photophysical information for investigation of their tumor localization using human cancer cells lines via confocal fluorescence microscopy studies. Particle size effect on localization of NPs was also investigated using confocal fluorescence and TEM. Two sizes were chosen (10 and 50 nm), and the smaller NPs (10 nm) were found to exhibit stronger fluorescence properties than the 50 nm NPs, and they were also found to have a better localization ability than the 50 nm NPs. Finally, their tumor and organ biodistribution studies will be carried out using micro-SPECT kits and model mice (using the “hot” isotopes in a radiopharmacy laboratory).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ntsimango, Songeziwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rhenium -- South Africa Radiopharmaceuticals -- South Africa , Nanoparticles -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13017 , vital:27144
- Description: The dissertation details the experimental work on the attempt to develop rhenium(V)phthalocyanine complexes directly from its +7 oxidation state (perrhenate). Different reducing agents (PPh3, Na2S2O5 and NaBH4) were employed and consequently, different results were acquired, such as rhenium(V)-mediated oxidative hydrolysis of the phthalocyanines (Pcs), the formation of a rhenium-phthalocyanine complex and phthalocyanine-capped nanoparticles. The rhenium nanoparticles that were formed were optimized from a synthesis point of view and, cancer localizing ability of the rhenium nanoparticles was investigated. The complexes were synthesized through direct metalation of pre-formed metal-free phthalocyanines using the “cold isotopes” of the rhenium metal. Rhenium nanoparticles (Re NPs) were synthesized in aqueous saline medium so as to imitate the environment on which Re is produced from its reactor. The nanoparticles (NPs) were capped with phthalocyanines which were covalently biofunctionalized with a folic acid moiety to enhance the targeting ability of the Re NPs. These NP systems were characterised with techniques such as ultraviolet-visible UV-Vis spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy TEM. Cytotoxicity of the NPs was tested against four different cell lines and subsequently their cytotoxicity profiles were elucidated, and the profiles shown a dose-dependent responsealthough the results in some cell lines were unclear. Their fluorescence properties were also studied to provide photophysical information for investigation of their tumor localization using human cancer cells lines via confocal fluorescence microscopy studies. Particle size effect on localization of NPs was also investigated using confocal fluorescence and TEM. Two sizes were chosen (10 and 50 nm), and the smaller NPs (10 nm) were found to exhibit stronger fluorescence properties than the 50 nm NPs, and they were also found to have a better localization ability than the 50 nm NPs. Finally, their tumor and organ biodistribution studies will be carried out using micro-SPECT kits and model mice (using the “hot” isotopes in a radiopharmacy laboratory).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of trilingual literacy in primary schools in Kenya
- Authors: Mose, Peter N
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/815 , vital:19993
- Description: The Kenyan language in education policy contemplates development of trilingual literacy skills in pupils by the end of standard three. The purpose of this study was to determine to what extent standard three pupils were literate in their mother tongue (Ekegusii), Kiswahili, and English. The study was undertaken in the context of; a language in education policy that provides for the use of mother tongues and Kiswahili (as languages of instruction) in rural and urban schools respectively up to the end of standard three, followed by a transition to an English medium from standard four; a general negative public attitude towards mother tongue instruction; and substantial empirical evidence in support of mother tongue instruction in basic education. Cummins’ Linguistic Interdependence and Linguistic Threshold Hypotheses guided the study. Adopting a mixed methods approach, the study used direct classroom observations, face-to-face interviews, document analyses, and reading tests to obtain data. Thematic, content, and statistical approaches were used in data analysis. It was found that various stakeholders understand key aspects of the language in education policy differently. Secondly, efforts in mother tongue instruction in schools are not motivated by theoretical and empirical foundations; development efforts are hence ineffective and inadequate leaving majority of learners with below average literacy skills in their mother tongue by the end of standard three. Thirdly, teachers do not implement the language in education policy as spelt out in the relevant documents; the three languages have therefore been allocated various classroom functions. Fourthly, the factors that motivate the disregard of the language policy include the language of examinations and textbooks, and transition to standard four in which English is the language of instruction. Lastly, reading scores indicate that majority of pupils transiting to standard four do not possess adequate reading skills to enable them read to learn in a mother tongue, Kiswahili, and English. This is observed across rural, peri-urban, and urban schools. The study recommends that: The ministry of education conducts workshops to re-educate the relevant stakeholders on the meaning and significance of the language in education policy and the significance of mother tongue instruction in second language, literacy, and skill development. This should be followed by a re-classification of primary schools on the basis of linguistic homogeneity, or otherwise, to ensure the intention of the policy is achieved. This could include empowering individual schools to determine language of instruction in lower primary based on language predominance. Secondly, the ministry should provide relevant resources for mother tongues and Kiswahili to develop them as effective languages of instruction as recommended by various past education commission reports. Additionally, a bilingual course in teacher training colleges to equip primary school teachers for bilingualism and biliteracy development should be introduced; one implication of this is teachers giving notes and tests in the languages spelt out in the policy. Thirdly, the ministry should intensify inspection of schools to assess implementation of the policy. Fourthly, future studies should assess mother tongue literacies as well, since they determine the extent and success of second language acquisition and learning; and measures should be put to ensure English is adequately resourced and taught well. Finally, mother tongue instruction should be extended up to, at least, standard five.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mose, Peter N
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/815 , vital:19993
- Description: The Kenyan language in education policy contemplates development of trilingual literacy skills in pupils by the end of standard three. The purpose of this study was to determine to what extent standard three pupils were literate in their mother tongue (Ekegusii), Kiswahili, and English. The study was undertaken in the context of; a language in education policy that provides for the use of mother tongues and Kiswahili (as languages of instruction) in rural and urban schools respectively up to the end of standard three, followed by a transition to an English medium from standard four; a general negative public attitude towards mother tongue instruction; and substantial empirical evidence in support of mother tongue instruction in basic education. Cummins’ Linguistic Interdependence and Linguistic Threshold Hypotheses guided the study. Adopting a mixed methods approach, the study used direct classroom observations, face-to-face interviews, document analyses, and reading tests to obtain data. Thematic, content, and statistical approaches were used in data analysis. It was found that various stakeholders understand key aspects of the language in education policy differently. Secondly, efforts in mother tongue instruction in schools are not motivated by theoretical and empirical foundations; development efforts are hence ineffective and inadequate leaving majority of learners with below average literacy skills in their mother tongue by the end of standard three. Thirdly, teachers do not implement the language in education policy as spelt out in the relevant documents; the three languages have therefore been allocated various classroom functions. Fourthly, the factors that motivate the disregard of the language policy include the language of examinations and textbooks, and transition to standard four in which English is the language of instruction. Lastly, reading scores indicate that majority of pupils transiting to standard four do not possess adequate reading skills to enable them read to learn in a mother tongue, Kiswahili, and English. This is observed across rural, peri-urban, and urban schools. The study recommends that: The ministry of education conducts workshops to re-educate the relevant stakeholders on the meaning and significance of the language in education policy and the significance of mother tongue instruction in second language, literacy, and skill development. This should be followed by a re-classification of primary schools on the basis of linguistic homogeneity, or otherwise, to ensure the intention of the policy is achieved. This could include empowering individual schools to determine language of instruction in lower primary based on language predominance. Secondly, the ministry should provide relevant resources for mother tongues and Kiswahili to develop them as effective languages of instruction as recommended by various past education commission reports. Additionally, a bilingual course in teacher training colleges to equip primary school teachers for bilingualism and biliteracy development should be introduced; one implication of this is teachers giving notes and tests in the languages spelt out in the policy. Thirdly, the ministry should intensify inspection of schools to assess implementation of the policy. Fourthly, future studies should assess mother tongue literacies as well, since they determine the extent and success of second language acquisition and learning; and measures should be put to ensure English is adequately resourced and taught well. Finally, mother tongue instruction should be extended up to, at least, standard five.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The disputed “equitable treatment” in political party broadcasts: an analysis of the SABC coverage of the 2014 South African general elections
- Authors: Ndimande, Dumisani Blessing
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Press coverage -- South Africa , Election monitoring -- South Africa Communication in politics -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14234 , vital:27486
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish whether the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) performed according to its mandate in ensuring a fair broadcast coverage of all political parties that participated in the 2014 national general election. The study was undertaken as a result of the complaints by political parties who accused the SABC of bias during the election. The study focused on two SABC radio stations, namely SAFM and UKHOZI FM. In executing the research, particular attention was paid to the coverage of political party manifestos, town hall election debates and radio interviews. The study was written utilising the theoretical paradigm of Social Responsibility Theory, as this is largely deemed the most ethical guide in testing South African journalism. The research was conducted in accordance with the Independent Complaints Authority of South Africa (ICASA) regulations that govern broadcast media during elections. The second part of the analysis deconstructed the SABC’s media coverage of the 2014 election through Media Monitoring Africa – a non-profit organisation that monitors and reports on media coverage of elections, whilst simultaneously taking ICASA stipulated guidelines into account. The MMA and ICASA equipped the study with reports which were compiled after an intense monitoring of SABC’s coverage of the 2014 election. Through the analysis of political parties’ accessibility to the election broadcast programmes on SABC platforms, the study concluded that although there were errors, the SABC treated all parties fairly during the 2014 general elections. The study also found that poor corporate governance at the SABC did not impact directly on the public broadcaster’s ability to deliver fair election broadcasting. By conforming to the social responsibility role that calls for high professional conduct, fairness and objectivity as expected in the public broadcaster, this study found that the SABC was committed to a fair coverage of the 2014 election.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ndimande, Dumisani Blessing
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Press coverage -- South Africa , Election monitoring -- South Africa Communication in politics -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14234 , vital:27486
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish whether the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) performed according to its mandate in ensuring a fair broadcast coverage of all political parties that participated in the 2014 national general election. The study was undertaken as a result of the complaints by political parties who accused the SABC of bias during the election. The study focused on two SABC radio stations, namely SAFM and UKHOZI FM. In executing the research, particular attention was paid to the coverage of political party manifestos, town hall election debates and radio interviews. The study was written utilising the theoretical paradigm of Social Responsibility Theory, as this is largely deemed the most ethical guide in testing South African journalism. The research was conducted in accordance with the Independent Complaints Authority of South Africa (ICASA) regulations that govern broadcast media during elections. The second part of the analysis deconstructed the SABC’s media coverage of the 2014 election through Media Monitoring Africa – a non-profit organisation that monitors and reports on media coverage of elections, whilst simultaneously taking ICASA stipulated guidelines into account. The MMA and ICASA equipped the study with reports which were compiled after an intense monitoring of SABC’s coverage of the 2014 election. Through the analysis of political parties’ accessibility to the election broadcast programmes on SABC platforms, the study concluded that although there were errors, the SABC treated all parties fairly during the 2014 general elections. The study also found that poor corporate governance at the SABC did not impact directly on the public broadcaster’s ability to deliver fair election broadcasting. By conforming to the social responsibility role that calls for high professional conduct, fairness and objectivity as expected in the public broadcaster, this study found that the SABC was committed to a fair coverage of the 2014 election.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The drivers of customer satisfaction at National Dairy Equipment (NDE)
- Authors: Laubscher, Ryno
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction Quality of products , SERVQUAL (Service quality framework)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13085 , vital:27150
- Description: National Dairy Equipment (Pty) Ltd (NDE) is a privately owned stockist and distributor of stainless steel products and is a respected player in the South African stainless steel industry. NDE operates from within all four major cities in South Africa namely, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Durban. The organisation, with its wide range of corrosion resistant products, serves industries such as the architecture and construction, automotive, catering, and food and beverage industry. With the stainless steel industry growing in terms of the number of competitors, NDE performs a number of functions in order to achieve customer satisfaction. The general purpose of the study was to indentify the attributes that would act as drivers of customer satisfaction at NDE. Five attributes were identified namely, Service quality, Trust and commitment, Product quality, Commercial aspects and Reliability. The results of this study could assist managers at NDE in improving service delivery to customers. The literature study provided an overview of overall customer satisfaction and possible measurement models for customer satisfaction. Measurement models included, SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, the Two-factor theory, the Kano model and the Three-factor model. The latter proved to be of particular importance to the study as the model was used to classify the identified drivers into basic, performance and excitement factors. Furthermore, a literature review was provided based on each of the identified potential drivers of customer satisfaction. The empirical data needed to complete the study was collected by means of a survey, using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed by sales representatives at NDE. A total of 320 useable questionnaires were received. The study revealed the following: each of the five proposed attributes had a positive relationship with overall customer satisfaction,thus all five attributes were confirmed as drivers of customer satisfaction at NDE. Commercial aspects and Reliability were classified as basic satisfiers. Trust and commitment was classified as a performance satisfier, and Service quality was identified as the only excitement satisfier. Product quality did not receive any classification. All importance mean scores were higher than the corresponding satisfaction mean scores. This study contributed to the existing body of literature and is seemingly the first of its kind in the South African stainless steel industry. The study is also the first to attempt the measurement of overall customer satisfaction levels at NDE. The methodology used in the current study can be applied to stainless steel industries internationally, in order to verify whether the confirmed drivers would also act as drivers of satisfaction in a similar industry elsewhere in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Laubscher, Ryno
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction Quality of products , SERVQUAL (Service quality framework)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13085 , vital:27150
- Description: National Dairy Equipment (Pty) Ltd (NDE) is a privately owned stockist and distributor of stainless steel products and is a respected player in the South African stainless steel industry. NDE operates from within all four major cities in South Africa namely, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Durban. The organisation, with its wide range of corrosion resistant products, serves industries such as the architecture and construction, automotive, catering, and food and beverage industry. With the stainless steel industry growing in terms of the number of competitors, NDE performs a number of functions in order to achieve customer satisfaction. The general purpose of the study was to indentify the attributes that would act as drivers of customer satisfaction at NDE. Five attributes were identified namely, Service quality, Trust and commitment, Product quality, Commercial aspects and Reliability. The results of this study could assist managers at NDE in improving service delivery to customers. The literature study provided an overview of overall customer satisfaction and possible measurement models for customer satisfaction. Measurement models included, SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, the Two-factor theory, the Kano model and the Three-factor model. The latter proved to be of particular importance to the study as the model was used to classify the identified drivers into basic, performance and excitement factors. Furthermore, a literature review was provided based on each of the identified potential drivers of customer satisfaction. The empirical data needed to complete the study was collected by means of a survey, using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed by sales representatives at NDE. A total of 320 useable questionnaires were received. The study revealed the following: each of the five proposed attributes had a positive relationship with overall customer satisfaction,thus all five attributes were confirmed as drivers of customer satisfaction at NDE. Commercial aspects and Reliability were classified as basic satisfiers. Trust and commitment was classified as a performance satisfier, and Service quality was identified as the only excitement satisfier. Product quality did not receive any classification. All importance mean scores were higher than the corresponding satisfaction mean scores. This study contributed to the existing body of literature and is seemingly the first of its kind in the South African stainless steel industry. The study is also the first to attempt the measurement of overall customer satisfaction levels at NDE. The methodology used in the current study can be applied to stainless steel industries internationally, in order to verify whether the confirmed drivers would also act as drivers of satisfaction in a similar industry elsewhere in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The dynamics of microalgal communities in response to environmental variables and nutrient fluxes in ephemeral wetlands in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Lategan, Jodi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Vernal pool ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Vernal pools -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. , patial ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13138 , vital:27155
- Description: Ephemeral wetlands provide numerous ecosystem services, but are disappearing due to urbanisation and habitat fragmentation. Knowledge is required to conserve these systems, but ephemeral wetland research in South Africa is lacking. As primary producers, microalgae provide a key link between the biotic and abiotic components of aquatic ecosystems. Despite their importance, there is a paucity in information concerning microalgal dynamics in ephemeral wetlands. The aim of this study was to understand the spatial and temporal dynamics of microalgae in ephemeral wetlands of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. The research followed a funnel-based approach that assessed 35 wetlands at a regional level, followed by a temporal assessment of six wetlands, monitored biweekly, monthly or quarterly. Thereafter, a case study at local scale was carried out to address wetland connectivity and Hydrogeomorphic unit trends. The research culminated in a benthic flux chamber experiment, addressing the influence of microalgal-mediated processes on wetland development for a month post inundation. Phytoplankton biomass showed strong regional associations with rainfall zone, with Chl a concentrations of 17; 4.6; and 25 µg.L-1 in the high, intermediate and low rainfall zones, respectively. The MPB communities in Seeps, Depressions and Wetland flats, comprised between 45 and 60 % diatoms, whilst other microalgal groups were dominant in the water columns (> 90 %). Phytoplankton and MPB interactions facilitated significant night-time NH4+ and SRP effluxes, (1.5 and 0.4 mg.m-2.h-1, respectively) four days post inundation. High Silica uptake in the latter stages, was attributed to an increase in diatom abundance. Within the chambers, MPB growth was continuous whilst phytoplankton exhibited cyclical growth as the system approached dynamic equilibrium. This study demonstrated the importance of nutrient cycling in structuring aquatic food webs, and indicated the sensitivity of ephemeral wetlands to environmental perturbations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Lategan, Jodi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Vernal pool ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Vernal pools -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. , patial ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13138 , vital:27155
- Description: Ephemeral wetlands provide numerous ecosystem services, but are disappearing due to urbanisation and habitat fragmentation. Knowledge is required to conserve these systems, but ephemeral wetland research in South Africa is lacking. As primary producers, microalgae provide a key link between the biotic and abiotic components of aquatic ecosystems. Despite their importance, there is a paucity in information concerning microalgal dynamics in ephemeral wetlands. The aim of this study was to understand the spatial and temporal dynamics of microalgae in ephemeral wetlands of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. The research followed a funnel-based approach that assessed 35 wetlands at a regional level, followed by a temporal assessment of six wetlands, monitored biweekly, monthly or quarterly. Thereafter, a case study at local scale was carried out to address wetland connectivity and Hydrogeomorphic unit trends. The research culminated in a benthic flux chamber experiment, addressing the influence of microalgal-mediated processes on wetland development for a month post inundation. Phytoplankton biomass showed strong regional associations with rainfall zone, with Chl a concentrations of 17; 4.6; and 25 µg.L-1 in the high, intermediate and low rainfall zones, respectively. The MPB communities in Seeps, Depressions and Wetland flats, comprised between 45 and 60 % diatoms, whilst other microalgal groups were dominant in the water columns (> 90 %). Phytoplankton and MPB interactions facilitated significant night-time NH4+ and SRP effluxes, (1.5 and 0.4 mg.m-2.h-1, respectively) four days post inundation. High Silica uptake in the latter stages, was attributed to an increase in diatom abundance. Within the chambers, MPB growth was continuous whilst phytoplankton exhibited cyclical growth as the system approached dynamic equilibrium. This study demonstrated the importance of nutrient cycling in structuring aquatic food webs, and indicated the sensitivity of ephemeral wetlands to environmental perturbations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The dynamics of police regulation of sexual abuse of children in South Africa: the case of Grahamstown, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Van Blerk, Natasha
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3828 , vital:20546
- Description: This thesis investigates the current legislation and police protocols set in South Africa, specifically regarding their adequacy in protecting the country’s children from sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions and protocols, on sexual abuse of children and on an empirical study conducted amongst a variety of officials who represent the South African legislation at different levels. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and brought forward to raise an awareness on the severity of the issue of child sexual abuse. In addition, this thesis explores how the diversity within the community of Grahamstown, South Africa, should be considered to a higher degree in the legislation. There is a clear indication of a prevalent patriarchal hierarchy within the community which, in reality, makes women and children more vulnerable to sexual abuse. The methods used in this thesis involves purposive sampling, which led to one on one interviews between the researcher and participant. Thisthesis concludes with confirmation of the hypothesis whereby the South African legislation is not adequately protecting the rights of children in regards to sexual abuse. However, to fully adapt the legislation and make it as versatile and as effective the State hopes it to be, it is necessary to understand the society’s perception on women and children and to rectify it. As difficult as this may sound, it all begins with a strong and influential government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Van Blerk, Natasha
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3828 , vital:20546
- Description: This thesis investigates the current legislation and police protocols set in South Africa, specifically regarding their adequacy in protecting the country’s children from sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions and protocols, on sexual abuse of children and on an empirical study conducted amongst a variety of officials who represent the South African legislation at different levels. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and brought forward to raise an awareness on the severity of the issue of child sexual abuse. In addition, this thesis explores how the diversity within the community of Grahamstown, South Africa, should be considered to a higher degree in the legislation. There is a clear indication of a prevalent patriarchal hierarchy within the community which, in reality, makes women and children more vulnerable to sexual abuse. The methods used in this thesis involves purposive sampling, which led to one on one interviews between the researcher and participant. Thisthesis concludes with confirmation of the hypothesis whereby the South African legislation is not adequately protecting the rights of children in regards to sexual abuse. However, to fully adapt the legislation and make it as versatile and as effective the State hopes it to be, it is necessary to understand the society’s perception on women and children and to rectify it. As difficult as this may sound, it all begins with a strong and influential government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The ecology of hard substrate communities around Sardinia Bay in the warm-temperate Agulhas Bioregion
- Authors: Evans, Adrian G , Nel, Ronel
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Aquatic biodiversity -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Marine ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Seashore biology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6782 , vital:21141
- Description: Hard substrates in the marine environment are an important ecosystem of great scientific and economic value. Hard substrates provide suitable habitat for a diverse assemblage of benthic organisms. This thesis investigated the ecology of benthic hard substrate communities along a section of wave-exposed coastline, including the Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA), in the warm-temperate Agulhas bioregion of South Africa. The effect of physical variables on benthic communities, including both the intertidal and shallow subtidal, was quantitatively assessed across (Chapter 3) and along (Chapter 4) the shore to provide a model of zonation for this bioregion and a baseline of community patters and biodiversity, as this information was lacking especially for the Sardinia Bay MPA. The zones described in Chapter 3 were in agreement with previous trends described for this bioregion with the addition of different biotopes in the upper Balanoid and deeper subtidal zones as well as the addition of an intermediate/transition zone in the subtidal between the algal dominated shallow subtidal and deeper subtidal, which has an increased abundance of sessile invertebrates. Disturbance is an important process in structuring benthic communities, and its role in structuring shallow benthic communities was investigated using a disturbance simulation experiment across a wave-exposure gradient (Chapter 5). Communities were found to change along the exposure gradient and monitoring the undisturbed communities showed that large waves caused disturbances across all the exposures. The recovery process was similar across all exposures mainly through lateral vegetative growth and regrowth from basal parts with communities in disturbed quadrats recovering to resemble the surrounding undisturbed community. Recruitment did not have a significant effect in the recovery process and community composition was therefore a result of the effects of the physical environment along the exposure gradient. Lastly this thesis investigated the indirect effects of protection in the small Sardinia Bay MPA (Chapter 6). Despite the small size of the MPA this study found differences in diversity and abundance between communities inside and outside the MPA. These differences in benthic biota infer indirect effects of protection that are probably due to the increase in abundance of exploited fish inside the MPA. Lower abundances of red algae, macroinvertebrates and diversity inside the MPA in the shallow depth category was attributed to the higher abundance of the generalist fish species that concentrate in the shallows. Significantly lower abundances of Chordata in the shallow and medium depth categories inside the MPA was attributed to predation by the benthic carnivorous species as ascidians are included in the diet of these species. This chapter also compared the effectiveness of destructive (scraped quadrats) and non-destructive (visually assessed quadrats) sampling methods. Scraped quadrats were found to be more effective in detecting changes across the MPA compared to visually assessed quadrats. Destructive methods sample the entire assemblage, to a higher taxonomic level, and measure abundance using biomass. It was concluded that biomass is a better metric when comparing communities across protection or other treatments as it provides better biological information of the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Evans, Adrian G , Nel, Ronel
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Aquatic biodiversity -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Marine ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Seashore biology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6782 , vital:21141
- Description: Hard substrates in the marine environment are an important ecosystem of great scientific and economic value. Hard substrates provide suitable habitat for a diverse assemblage of benthic organisms. This thesis investigated the ecology of benthic hard substrate communities along a section of wave-exposed coastline, including the Sardinia Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA), in the warm-temperate Agulhas bioregion of South Africa. The effect of physical variables on benthic communities, including both the intertidal and shallow subtidal, was quantitatively assessed across (Chapter 3) and along (Chapter 4) the shore to provide a model of zonation for this bioregion and a baseline of community patters and biodiversity, as this information was lacking especially for the Sardinia Bay MPA. The zones described in Chapter 3 were in agreement with previous trends described for this bioregion with the addition of different biotopes in the upper Balanoid and deeper subtidal zones as well as the addition of an intermediate/transition zone in the subtidal between the algal dominated shallow subtidal and deeper subtidal, which has an increased abundance of sessile invertebrates. Disturbance is an important process in structuring benthic communities, and its role in structuring shallow benthic communities was investigated using a disturbance simulation experiment across a wave-exposure gradient (Chapter 5). Communities were found to change along the exposure gradient and monitoring the undisturbed communities showed that large waves caused disturbances across all the exposures. The recovery process was similar across all exposures mainly through lateral vegetative growth and regrowth from basal parts with communities in disturbed quadrats recovering to resemble the surrounding undisturbed community. Recruitment did not have a significant effect in the recovery process and community composition was therefore a result of the effects of the physical environment along the exposure gradient. Lastly this thesis investigated the indirect effects of protection in the small Sardinia Bay MPA (Chapter 6). Despite the small size of the MPA this study found differences in diversity and abundance between communities inside and outside the MPA. These differences in benthic biota infer indirect effects of protection that are probably due to the increase in abundance of exploited fish inside the MPA. Lower abundances of red algae, macroinvertebrates and diversity inside the MPA in the shallow depth category was attributed to the higher abundance of the generalist fish species that concentrate in the shallows. Significantly lower abundances of Chordata in the shallow and medium depth categories inside the MPA was attributed to predation by the benthic carnivorous species as ascidians are included in the diet of these species. This chapter also compared the effectiveness of destructive (scraped quadrats) and non-destructive (visually assessed quadrats) sampling methods. Scraped quadrats were found to be more effective in detecting changes across the MPA compared to visually assessed quadrats. Destructive methods sample the entire assemblage, to a higher taxonomic level, and measure abundance using biomass. It was concluded that biomass is a better metric when comparing communities across protection or other treatments as it provides better biological information of the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of Acacia karroo tree density on grass species composition, forage yield and quality in different rainfall regimes in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: De Ridder, Cornelius Henry
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Grasses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2858 , vital:20357
- Description: It is widely believed that Acacia karroo Hayne trees compete with and negatively affect the production of grasses in their immediate surroundings. This perception formed as a result of observations by farmers of their veld as well as some research. The complexity of plant interactions in different conditions required that research be done to better explain the extent of grass and tree interactions. In response to this need, the effect of a range of Acacia karroo densities on grass production was tested in areas of differing rainfall. Results emphasize the complexity of such plant interactions but highlight rainfall as influencing the effect of tree density on grass production and grass quality. Study sites were chosen with significant differences in tree density and rainfall and this was found to be concomitant with significant differences in grass yield and crude protein (p < 0.001). Grass yield (mass produced) was negatively correlated with tree density (p < 0.001) and was affected by rainfall. High tree density reduced grass yield at the lower rainfall sites, but a reduction in yield was only recorded during dry conditions in the higher rainfall areas. By contrast, the crude protein content of grasses was positively correlated to tree density (p < 0.001). However, as with yield, rainfall played an important part in the strength of the correlation. Soil properties such as temperature (-) (p = 0.011), phosphorus content (+) (p = 0.006), calcium concentration (+) (p = 0.005), acid saturation (-) (p = 0.018), and soil pH (+) (p = 0.008) were also significantly correlated to tree density. Tree density enriched the soil, subsequently benefitting grass quality. The study sites investigated, had different plant communities and environmental conditions with Cradock, Kubusi Drift and Kei Mouth having unique communities and conditions while Adelaide and Cathcart could not be separated in either. Cradock was the driest site and the vegetation was dominated by both grasses and karroid shrubs, differing in pattern and process from the other sites. The Kubusi Drift site had high tree densities, to the extent that the trees altered the grass species composition. The effects of rainfall on grass yield and quality exceeded that of community composition differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: De Ridder, Cornelius Henry
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Grasses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2858 , vital:20357
- Description: It is widely believed that Acacia karroo Hayne trees compete with and negatively affect the production of grasses in their immediate surroundings. This perception formed as a result of observations by farmers of their veld as well as some research. The complexity of plant interactions in different conditions required that research be done to better explain the extent of grass and tree interactions. In response to this need, the effect of a range of Acacia karroo densities on grass production was tested in areas of differing rainfall. Results emphasize the complexity of such plant interactions but highlight rainfall as influencing the effect of tree density on grass production and grass quality. Study sites were chosen with significant differences in tree density and rainfall and this was found to be concomitant with significant differences in grass yield and crude protein (p < 0.001). Grass yield (mass produced) was negatively correlated with tree density (p < 0.001) and was affected by rainfall. High tree density reduced grass yield at the lower rainfall sites, but a reduction in yield was only recorded during dry conditions in the higher rainfall areas. By contrast, the crude protein content of grasses was positively correlated to tree density (p < 0.001). However, as with yield, rainfall played an important part in the strength of the correlation. Soil properties such as temperature (-) (p = 0.011), phosphorus content (+) (p = 0.006), calcium concentration (+) (p = 0.005), acid saturation (-) (p = 0.018), and soil pH (+) (p = 0.008) were also significantly correlated to tree density. Tree density enriched the soil, subsequently benefitting grass quality. The study sites investigated, had different plant communities and environmental conditions with Cradock, Kubusi Drift and Kei Mouth having unique communities and conditions while Adelaide and Cathcart could not be separated in either. Cradock was the driest site and the vegetation was dominated by both grasses and karroid shrubs, differing in pattern and process from the other sites. The Kubusi Drift site had high tree densities, to the extent that the trees altered the grass species composition. The effects of rainfall on grass yield and quality exceeded that of community composition differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bond market -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7218 , vital:21306
- Description: This paper investigates the effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa. Quarterly data for South Africa for the period 2003-2014 was used to develop a general- to- specific Auto-Regressive Distribution Lag (ARDL) approach. The empirical results confirm that there is a positive relationship between Bond market and economic growth in South Africa. A co-integrated relationship between economic growth, stock market and banking sector was noticed in both the long-run and short-runs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bond market -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7218 , vital:21306
- Description: This paper investigates the effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa. Quarterly data for South Africa for the period 2003-2014 was used to develop a general- to- specific Auto-Regressive Distribution Lag (ARDL) approach. The empirical results confirm that there is a positive relationship between Bond market and economic growth in South Africa. A co-integrated relationship between economic growth, stock market and banking sector was noticed in both the long-run and short-runs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of different land uses on household livelihoods in Tale Ga-Morudu Communal Property Association
- Authors: Ramaloko, Thomas Tshwantshi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Limpopo Reparations for historical injustices -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14146 , vital:27436
- Description: This study is about a population of 235 households in Blouberg municipality, Limpopo Province, that constituted itself in 2004 into a Communal Property Association. The Tale Ga-Morudu CPA was formed in order to own, manage and control a total of seventeen farms which were progressively restituted to them during 2004 by the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights. Tale Ga-Morudu households were dispossessed and forcefully removed from a number of fertile, arable and irrigable farms1in the 1960s due to racially discriminatory laws or practices. These households were then relocated by the then apartheid regime on the eastern part of Mogalakwena River. They were distributed in the arid communal areas of Laanglagte/Vergelegen, Matekereng; Ga- Mankgodi; Letswatla and Mamoleka under the traditional leadership of Kgoshi Maleboho of BabinaTšhwene. (Map one). It is the aim of this study to find out how Tale Ga-Morudu CPA currently uses these restituted farms for the households who have said to have benefited from restituted land. The researcher used his own observations, lessons and analysis of perspectives from case studies conducted from Limpopo in order to pursue this aim. This study adopted a descriptive household survey design that used a predominantly quantitative approach, and the use of qualitative methods to complement contextual details. A quantitative questionnaire was used on a sample unit of (20%) 45 households obtained by simple random sampling from a population of 235 households of the CPA. Other qualitative methods include focus group discussion, document review and observation. From the results it is clear that land claimants, prefer to retain existing practices of land use, than risk changes in land use in order to meet their socio-economic needs. Thus, instead of investing in commercial agriculture or wildlife farming, people follow subsistence agriculture and remain dependent on social grants and pensions for their livelihood. The general study findings show that the CPA planned to implement different types of land use including those of direct land use value. These include food gardens, resettlement; game farming; poultry enterprises and livestock grazing, and also of indirect use value. The latter refers to contract crop cultivation, rentals and strategic partnerships. The study found that despite income being generated from indirect types of land use, the majority of these intended beneficiaries never benefited from accrued financial dividends of land rental and development. However, households were still able to take advantage of employment opportunities created by contract crop cultivation and in the process they acquired crop cultivation skills. Furthermore the harvesting of natural resources such as wood and poles also contribute to the wellness of households. Households, also derived cultural wellness and a sense of satisfaction by accessing their restored farms to perform rituals. The general conclusion of the study is that the CPA is underutilizing its properties, including arable and irrigable fields, rentable recreational facilities, game farming and its tourism potential.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ramaloko, Thomas Tshwantshi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Limpopo Reparations for historical injustices -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14146 , vital:27436
- Description: This study is about a population of 235 households in Blouberg municipality, Limpopo Province, that constituted itself in 2004 into a Communal Property Association. The Tale Ga-Morudu CPA was formed in order to own, manage and control a total of seventeen farms which were progressively restituted to them during 2004 by the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights. Tale Ga-Morudu households were dispossessed and forcefully removed from a number of fertile, arable and irrigable farms1in the 1960s due to racially discriminatory laws or practices. These households were then relocated by the then apartheid regime on the eastern part of Mogalakwena River. They were distributed in the arid communal areas of Laanglagte/Vergelegen, Matekereng; Ga- Mankgodi; Letswatla and Mamoleka under the traditional leadership of Kgoshi Maleboho of BabinaTšhwene. (Map one). It is the aim of this study to find out how Tale Ga-Morudu CPA currently uses these restituted farms for the households who have said to have benefited from restituted land. The researcher used his own observations, lessons and analysis of perspectives from case studies conducted from Limpopo in order to pursue this aim. This study adopted a descriptive household survey design that used a predominantly quantitative approach, and the use of qualitative methods to complement contextual details. A quantitative questionnaire was used on a sample unit of (20%) 45 households obtained by simple random sampling from a population of 235 households of the CPA. Other qualitative methods include focus group discussion, document review and observation. From the results it is clear that land claimants, prefer to retain existing practices of land use, than risk changes in land use in order to meet their socio-economic needs. Thus, instead of investing in commercial agriculture or wildlife farming, people follow subsistence agriculture and remain dependent on social grants and pensions for their livelihood. The general study findings show that the CPA planned to implement different types of land use including those of direct land use value. These include food gardens, resettlement; game farming; poultry enterprises and livestock grazing, and also of indirect use value. The latter refers to contract crop cultivation, rentals and strategic partnerships. The study found that despite income being generated from indirect types of land use, the majority of these intended beneficiaries never benefited from accrued financial dividends of land rental and development. However, households were still able to take advantage of employment opportunities created by contract crop cultivation and in the process they acquired crop cultivation skills. Furthermore the harvesting of natural resources such as wood and poles also contribute to the wellness of households. Households, also derived cultural wellness and a sense of satisfaction by accessing their restored farms to perform rituals. The general conclusion of the study is that the CPA is underutilizing its properties, including arable and irrigable fields, rentable recreational facilities, game farming and its tourism potential.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of English as a medium of instruction on the academic performance of students in life orientation at Dower Campus of the Port Elizabeth College
- Authors: Magxaki, Akhona
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth English language -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14697 , vital:27825
- Description: South Africa is a country with 11 official languages including English. English, however, dominates the educational sector, as medium of instruction. This is despite a plethora of research that shows the cognitive advantages of mother tongue instruction and language policies that promote additive bilingual approaches. As subtractive language approaches characterise poor schooling contexts, the outcomes for students are poor. This is because they do not develop proficiency in any language. The abolition of apartheid in South Africa and the advent of democracy in 1994 resulted in dramatic changes in the education system. Nevertheless, the medium of instruction from Grade four has remained English. Consequently, for the majority of the population the education is in their second language. This study takes place in the higher education setting of a TVET college, namely the Dower Campus in Port Elizabeth. It focuses specifically on Level 2 (first year) Life Orientation students to consider the effect English has, as medium of instruction, on the academic performance of students. There is concern about the status of TVET colleges. Even though the higher education sector has transformed, these skills based colleges are still given inferior status in the eyes of the general public and students themselves. These students may be particularly at risk of success given that they have lower entry requirements than other students in the higher education sector. The subject Life Orientation was used to examine the effect of English on student performance. Life Orientation has come under scrutiny for its usefulness and it cognitive value. This study argues that it is a valuable subject for students at colleges, equipping them with knowledge to succeed at studies and in society at large. However, the pass rates for Life Orientation have been consistently low. The study wanted to probe the role of English in this performance. To address the aims and objectives of this study, relevant literature and various multilingual approaches were reviewed to determine which strategies might be most effective in helping students cope with English as medium of instruction. The study also presents a case for the development of indigenous languages as medium of instruction. The study used a mixed methods approach, that is both qualitative and quantitative methods, to explore the use, attitude and perceptions of English among lecturers and students. The research used an interpretive approach and the study took the form of a case study. The researcher took the stance of being a non-participant observer. Qualitative data was obtained through the use of interviews while quantitative data was obtained through the use of questionnaires. The interviews were recorded and transcribed by a transcriber. Data was analysed using a thematic approach. The results showed that majority of the students did not speak English frequently nor had it as a home language yet they all had a positive regard for the language. Many factors were responsible for student performance in Life Orientation such as attitude to subject, theoretical versus practical components of the subject and student background. However, the medium of instruction played a large role in this performance. Though lecturers foregrounded the importance of English as medium of instruction, they recognise that it was a barrier to understanding and affected student performance. Analysis of the lecturer interviews and the questionnaires with students revealed that students were experiencing difficulty speaking, reading and writing in English. Lecturers adapted their teaching strategies when teaching by including translanguaging strategies of code-switching to facilitate understanding. The data also indicated that code switching was considered by the lecturers to be the most suitable method in teaching to student. Code-meshing and written translations of material were not strategies employed by lecturers. Students indicated that they would prefer to write assignments drafts initially in mother tongue. The findings also suggested that it was necessary for the lecturer to use a variety of multilingual strategies to ensure that students enjoy success in Life Orientation. Based on the findings, this study makes recommendations regarding the teaching and learning of English to students which includes the use of multilingual classroom strategies, collaboration with language lecturers and development of a multilingual language policy to aid in the understanding and acquisition of English terminology used in LO content. Such a language policy should also seek to develop indigenous languages as mediums of instructions at the college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Magxaki, Akhona
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth English language -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14697 , vital:27825
- Description: South Africa is a country with 11 official languages including English. English, however, dominates the educational sector, as medium of instruction. This is despite a plethora of research that shows the cognitive advantages of mother tongue instruction and language policies that promote additive bilingual approaches. As subtractive language approaches characterise poor schooling contexts, the outcomes for students are poor. This is because they do not develop proficiency in any language. The abolition of apartheid in South Africa and the advent of democracy in 1994 resulted in dramatic changes in the education system. Nevertheless, the medium of instruction from Grade four has remained English. Consequently, for the majority of the population the education is in their second language. This study takes place in the higher education setting of a TVET college, namely the Dower Campus in Port Elizabeth. It focuses specifically on Level 2 (first year) Life Orientation students to consider the effect English has, as medium of instruction, on the academic performance of students. There is concern about the status of TVET colleges. Even though the higher education sector has transformed, these skills based colleges are still given inferior status in the eyes of the general public and students themselves. These students may be particularly at risk of success given that they have lower entry requirements than other students in the higher education sector. The subject Life Orientation was used to examine the effect of English on student performance. Life Orientation has come under scrutiny for its usefulness and it cognitive value. This study argues that it is a valuable subject for students at colleges, equipping them with knowledge to succeed at studies and in society at large. However, the pass rates for Life Orientation have been consistently low. The study wanted to probe the role of English in this performance. To address the aims and objectives of this study, relevant literature and various multilingual approaches were reviewed to determine which strategies might be most effective in helping students cope with English as medium of instruction. The study also presents a case for the development of indigenous languages as medium of instruction. The study used a mixed methods approach, that is both qualitative and quantitative methods, to explore the use, attitude and perceptions of English among lecturers and students. The research used an interpretive approach and the study took the form of a case study. The researcher took the stance of being a non-participant observer. Qualitative data was obtained through the use of interviews while quantitative data was obtained through the use of questionnaires. The interviews were recorded and transcribed by a transcriber. Data was analysed using a thematic approach. The results showed that majority of the students did not speak English frequently nor had it as a home language yet they all had a positive regard for the language. Many factors were responsible for student performance in Life Orientation such as attitude to subject, theoretical versus practical components of the subject and student background. However, the medium of instruction played a large role in this performance. Though lecturers foregrounded the importance of English as medium of instruction, they recognise that it was a barrier to understanding and affected student performance. Analysis of the lecturer interviews and the questionnaires with students revealed that students were experiencing difficulty speaking, reading and writing in English. Lecturers adapted their teaching strategies when teaching by including translanguaging strategies of code-switching to facilitate understanding. The data also indicated that code switching was considered by the lecturers to be the most suitable method in teaching to student. Code-meshing and written translations of material were not strategies employed by lecturers. Students indicated that they would prefer to write assignments drafts initially in mother tongue. The findings also suggested that it was necessary for the lecturer to use a variety of multilingual strategies to ensure that students enjoy success in Life Orientation. Based on the findings, this study makes recommendations regarding the teaching and learning of English to students which includes the use of multilingual classroom strategies, collaboration with language lecturers and development of a multilingual language policy to aid in the understanding and acquisition of English terminology used in LO content. Such a language policy should also seek to develop indigenous languages as mediums of instructions at the college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Mbeki, Zizipho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Public investments -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa , Investments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11166 , vital:26890
- Description: The effect of FDI on economic growth is not a straight jacket. Literature has shown that the effect of FDI on economic growth can be either positive or negative. The positive effects of FDI can be caused by increase in output stimulated by new technological innovations and increase in capital flows. The negative effects could result in a ‘crowding out’ effect on domestic investments, external vulnerability and dependence, destructive competition of foreign affiliates with domestic firms, and market stealing effect due to poor absorptive capacity.This treatise will attempt to shed light on the effect foreign direct investment has on economic growth in South Africa in order to ascertain whether a positive or negative relationship exists between these two variables. This study thus aims to investigate, analyse and estimate the extent to which FDI impacts economic growth in South Africa. The findings of this research will provide policymakers, commercial businesses and scholars with relevant updated theoretical and empirical results that will assist relevant government policy makers in generating effective measures of attracting FDI if it proves to be beneficial for the host country. If the results of the study prove that FDIs do not generate positive spill over effects then the policymakers are thus obliged to formulate policies that will discourage FDIs from penetrating the host country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mbeki, Zizipho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Public investments -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa , Investments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11166 , vital:26890
- Description: The effect of FDI on economic growth is not a straight jacket. Literature has shown that the effect of FDI on economic growth can be either positive or negative. The positive effects of FDI can be caused by increase in output stimulated by new technological innovations and increase in capital flows. The negative effects could result in a ‘crowding out’ effect on domestic investments, external vulnerability and dependence, destructive competition of foreign affiliates with domestic firms, and market stealing effect due to poor absorptive capacity.This treatise will attempt to shed light on the effect foreign direct investment has on economic growth in South Africa in order to ascertain whether a positive or negative relationship exists between these two variables. This study thus aims to investigate, analyse and estimate the extent to which FDI impacts economic growth in South Africa. The findings of this research will provide policymakers, commercial businesses and scholars with relevant updated theoretical and empirical results that will assist relevant government policy makers in generating effective measures of attracting FDI if it proves to be beneficial for the host country. If the results of the study prove that FDIs do not generate positive spill over effects then the policymakers are thus obliged to formulate policies that will discourage FDIs from penetrating the host country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016