Guidelines for the adaptation of the TETRA educational programme at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University to address human behavioural issues
- Authors: Fouche Nico Pieter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Communication systems , Human behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9801 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012248 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Communication systems , Human behavior
- Description: Information is a vitally important asset to organizations and the information should be protected to sustain the value it provides to the organization. Information is transferred via different mediums in these organizations. An example would be Terrestrial Trunked Radio or TETRA, which is utilized within organizations to provide a technically very secure form of digital radio communication. TETRA is a communications technology that is currently being successfully used throughout the world for secure, reliable and robust critical communication. TETRA is used by Public Safety and Security (PSS) and transportation sectors, amongst others. PSS includes police officers, fire marshals and emergency medical units who require protected and accurate information that could influence decisions that could make difference between life and death. The TETRA educational programme offered by the TETRA Academy at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), educates TETRA users in various aspects of the TETRA standard. TETRA is viewed as a technically very secure communication standard, as it utilizes security features such as mutual authentication, air interface encryption, end-to-end encryption, jamming detection and ambience listening, amongst other security techniques to ensure that the information traversing through the network is kept secure. The TETRA educational programme material includes many physical and technical controls to assist TETRA users in protecting information. However, to what extent does the TETRA educational programme address operational controls? Operational controls address what is often referred to as the weakest link in information security – human behavioural issues. Humans can be exploited through human manipulation attacks, which include social engineering and bribery. Therefore, this study argues towards adapting the TETRA educational programme offered at the NMMU to address these human behavioural issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Fouche Nico Pieter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Communication systems , Human behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9801 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012248 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Communication systems , Human behavior
- Description: Information is a vitally important asset to organizations and the information should be protected to sustain the value it provides to the organization. Information is transferred via different mediums in these organizations. An example would be Terrestrial Trunked Radio or TETRA, which is utilized within organizations to provide a technically very secure form of digital radio communication. TETRA is a communications technology that is currently being successfully used throughout the world for secure, reliable and robust critical communication. TETRA is used by Public Safety and Security (PSS) and transportation sectors, amongst others. PSS includes police officers, fire marshals and emergency medical units who require protected and accurate information that could influence decisions that could make difference between life and death. The TETRA educational programme offered by the TETRA Academy at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), educates TETRA users in various aspects of the TETRA standard. TETRA is viewed as a technically very secure communication standard, as it utilizes security features such as mutual authentication, air interface encryption, end-to-end encryption, jamming detection and ambience listening, amongst other security techniques to ensure that the information traversing through the network is kept secure. The TETRA educational programme material includes many physical and technical controls to assist TETRA users in protecting information. However, to what extent does the TETRA educational programme address operational controls? Operational controls address what is often referred to as the weakest link in information security – human behavioural issues. Humans can be exploited through human manipulation attacks, which include social engineering and bribery. Therefore, this study argues towards adapting the TETRA educational programme offered at the NMMU to address these human behavioural issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Guidelines for the design of a mobile phone application for deaf people
- Authors: Yeratziotis, George
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007925 , Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Description: Deaf people in South Africa are no longer a minority group and their needs regarding communication and interaction must therefore be taken into consideration. This demographic does not communicate and interact in the same way as hearing people, which means that any existing usability or accessibility guidelines do not apply. As a result, Deaf people do not have access to information in the same way that a hearing person does. Providing proper access to Information and Communications Technology services, which meet their particular needs, will help the hearing impaired to better integrate into society. The importance of demolishing the communication barrier between the hearing and the hearing impaired is very important. Many people assume that sign language is somehow based on oral language. However, this is not the case. Sign languages are natural visual-spatial languages, and form a contrast with spoken languages which are auditory-vocal based. Acknowledging this fact in 2008, the South African Sign Language Policy Implementation Conference together with several governmental bodies suggested that South African Sign Language should become recognized as the 12th official language of South Africa. Due to the fact that cell phone technology continues to evolve, it will remain a tool of communication upon which Deaf people heavily rely on. The cell phone fulfils a basic need for everyone, but especially for the Deaf demographic as they rely on the short message system to communicate. Deaf people are currently faced with a lack of appropriate mobile phone applications, which would allow them to communicate with hearing as well as deaf people. The primary objective of this research was therefore to make mobile technology equally accessible meaning usable to members of the Deaf demographic. The focus of the research was to investigate the communication barrier and a range of variables that can influence the deaf user’s experience. Topics such as user interface design, usability and interaction were investigated. The outcome of this research was to propose a set of guidelines that, when applied to the design of a website or to phone application accessibility, would ensure communication and interaction from a deaf user. The proposed set of guidelines was then applied to the design of the high fidelity prototype of a mobile phone application. The specific application is a messaging phone application that allows deaf users to communicate with other deaf and hearing users via short message system. A mobile phone application that allows Deaf people to send and receive messages based on the sign language alphabet. The application was named Signchat. Purpose of this was to visibly display how the guidelines were implemented in Signchat. While Signchat’s main purpose is to accommodate the needs of Deaf people, it is also a learning tool and an application that bridges the gap by allowing deaf and hearing users to communicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Yeratziotis, George
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007925 , Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Description: Deaf people in South Africa are no longer a minority group and their needs regarding communication and interaction must therefore be taken into consideration. This demographic does not communicate and interact in the same way as hearing people, which means that any existing usability or accessibility guidelines do not apply. As a result, Deaf people do not have access to information in the same way that a hearing person does. Providing proper access to Information and Communications Technology services, which meet their particular needs, will help the hearing impaired to better integrate into society. The importance of demolishing the communication barrier between the hearing and the hearing impaired is very important. Many people assume that sign language is somehow based on oral language. However, this is not the case. Sign languages are natural visual-spatial languages, and form a contrast with spoken languages which are auditory-vocal based. Acknowledging this fact in 2008, the South African Sign Language Policy Implementation Conference together with several governmental bodies suggested that South African Sign Language should become recognized as the 12th official language of South Africa. Due to the fact that cell phone technology continues to evolve, it will remain a tool of communication upon which Deaf people heavily rely on. The cell phone fulfils a basic need for everyone, but especially for the Deaf demographic as they rely on the short message system to communicate. Deaf people are currently faced with a lack of appropriate mobile phone applications, which would allow them to communicate with hearing as well as deaf people. The primary objective of this research was therefore to make mobile technology equally accessible meaning usable to members of the Deaf demographic. The focus of the research was to investigate the communication barrier and a range of variables that can influence the deaf user’s experience. Topics such as user interface design, usability and interaction were investigated. The outcome of this research was to propose a set of guidelines that, when applied to the design of a website or to phone application accessibility, would ensure communication and interaction from a deaf user. The proposed set of guidelines was then applied to the design of the high fidelity prototype of a mobile phone application. The specific application is a messaging phone application that allows deaf users to communicate with other deaf and hearing users via short message system. A mobile phone application that allows Deaf people to send and receive messages based on the sign language alphabet. The application was named Signchat. Purpose of this was to visibly display how the guidelines were implemented in Signchat. While Signchat’s main purpose is to accommodate the needs of Deaf people, it is also a learning tool and an application that bridges the gap by allowing deaf and hearing users to communicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Guidelines to establish an e-safety awareness in South Africa
- Authors: De Lange, Mariska
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007863 , Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of almost every individual’s life. Although ICT, particularly the Internet, might offer numerous opportunities, individuals should also be aware of the associated risks. Especially with the younger generations who can be seen as being the most vulnerable to online dangers as they are becoming more involved in online activities. Children are utilizing new technologies from an early age and should know how to keep themselves and others safe whilst accessing the Internet. However, most of them do not have the required knowledge and expertise to protect themselves. This is because, under most circumstances, the parents do not understand their children’s online behaviours and activities and are, therefore, unable to teach their children how to utilize it safe and responsibly. A school can be seen as the perfect place to teach children safe online behaviours. However, there is currently a definite lack of e-Safety in South African schools, because no e-Safety policies are in place and there is little or nothing in curricula with regards to e-Safety. This can lead to additional concerns. The primary objective of this research study is, therefore, to develop, motivate and verify a framework that might contribute towards the development of an e-Safety culture. This e-Safety culture should allow individuals to adapt their behavior towards the secure utilization of ICT. However, for the purpose of this research study, the focus will primarily be on learners from primary and secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: De Lange, Mariska
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007863 , Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of almost every individual’s life. Although ICT, particularly the Internet, might offer numerous opportunities, individuals should also be aware of the associated risks. Especially with the younger generations who can be seen as being the most vulnerable to online dangers as they are becoming more involved in online activities. Children are utilizing new technologies from an early age and should know how to keep themselves and others safe whilst accessing the Internet. However, most of them do not have the required knowledge and expertise to protect themselves. This is because, under most circumstances, the parents do not understand their children’s online behaviours and activities and are, therefore, unable to teach their children how to utilize it safe and responsibly. A school can be seen as the perfect place to teach children safe online behaviours. However, there is currently a definite lack of e-Safety in South African schools, because no e-Safety policies are in place and there is little or nothing in curricula with regards to e-Safety. This can lead to additional concerns. The primary objective of this research study is, therefore, to develop, motivate and verify a framework that might contribute towards the development of an e-Safety culture. This e-Safety culture should allow individuals to adapt their behavior towards the secure utilization of ICT. However, for the purpose of this research study, the focus will primarily be on learners from primary and secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Haul Music : transnationalism and musical performance in the Saharaui refugee camps of Tindouf, Algeria
- Authors: Gimenez Amoros, Luis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Bedouins -- Music -- Research Sahrawi (African people) -- Migrations Social change -- Arab countries Arab countries -- Social life and customs Civilization, Arab
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2637 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002302
- Description: The thesis presents ethnographic data and musical analysis (in the form of transcriptions) of Haul music which is the music style performed by Bedouin societies in Trab el Bidan region (Mauritania, Western Sahara, northern Mali, southern Algeria and northern Morocco). It is based on field research undertaken in Algeria in 2004-05 in the refugee camps of Tindouf, Algeria, where Saharaui people (a Bedouin society)live in exile. This research is unique and original as Haul has not, until now, been explored in depth by any scholar. My research on Haul reveals that the changes in Saharaui music in the refugee camps of Tindouf reflect changes in the musical traditions of Bedouin societies as whole; changes that can be traced to the revolution which occurred in Western Sahara in 1975, and changes that are a result of the migrations and life in exile that followed. I argue that these changes occurred due to the transnational experiences undergone by Saharaui people in their forced exile (caused by the Moroccan state) from their homeland in Western Sahara to Algeria. Further, I assert that the invocation of memory in Bedouin musical styles is evidence of past musical practices being retained in contemporary Haul performance, although other musical changes are similarly in progress.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gimenez Amoros, Luis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Bedouins -- Music -- Research Sahrawi (African people) -- Migrations Social change -- Arab countries Arab countries -- Social life and customs Civilization, Arab
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2637 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002302
- Description: The thesis presents ethnographic data and musical analysis (in the form of transcriptions) of Haul music which is the music style performed by Bedouin societies in Trab el Bidan region (Mauritania, Western Sahara, northern Mali, southern Algeria and northern Morocco). It is based on field research undertaken in Algeria in 2004-05 in the refugee camps of Tindouf, Algeria, where Saharaui people (a Bedouin society)live in exile. This research is unique and original as Haul has not, until now, been explored in depth by any scholar. My research on Haul reveals that the changes in Saharaui music in the refugee camps of Tindouf reflect changes in the musical traditions of Bedouin societies as whole; changes that can be traced to the revolution which occurred in Western Sahara in 1975, and changes that are a result of the migrations and life in exile that followed. I argue that these changes occurred due to the transnational experiences undergone by Saharaui people in their forced exile (caused by the Moroccan state) from their homeland in Western Sahara to Algeria. Further, I assert that the invocation of memory in Bedouin musical styles is evidence of past musical practices being retained in contemporary Haul performance, although other musical changes are similarly in progress.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
High pressure liquid chromatographic quantification of nitrile biocatalysis
- Authors: Mathiba, Kgama
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: High performance liquid chromatography , Rhodococcus , Biocatalysis , Organic compounds -- Industrial applications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015710
- Description: Nitrile biocatalysts are of use in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries for the synthesis of carboxyamides and carboxylic acids. In particular, the application of biocatalysts in the synthesis of single enantiomer compounds is of increasing interest, but requires novel substrate specific highly stereoselective biocatalysts. Addition to the limited toolbox of known nitrile biocatalysts requires definitive characterisation of the biocatalysts through accurate determination of the substrate profiles and quantification of activity. The accurate quantification of stereoisomers chiral mixtures to determine biocatalyst stereoselectivity remains a significant challenge due to the difficulty in separating stereoisomers by physical methods. The known nitrile metabolising organism, Rhodococcus rhodochrous ATCC BAA-870, was grown in a defined medium and harvested, providing whole cell biocatalyst. Additional biomass was disrupted to provide a cell free enzyme extract, which was put through an enzyme purification protocol to provide a solution with specific activity of 351 U.mg⁻¹. A portion of the enzyme was self immobilised using the SphereZyme™ technique. The nitrile hydratase SphereZymes™ (1.2 U.mg⁻¹ initial activity) that were prepared had pH and temperature optima of 6 and 30°C respectively, and could be recovered by repeated washing. The particles retained activity in the presence of the organic solvents isooctane and n-hexadecane saturated with 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.5). An initial analytical system was devised for quantification of the nitrile hydratase activity using the non-chiral substrate benzonitrile. An improved reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography method was developed to separate and quantify benzamide, benzoic acid and benzonitrile. The mobile phase consisting of 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid in H₂O and acetonitrile (70:30, %v/v), at a flow rate of 0.5 ml.ml⁻¹, 25°C, resolved all three analytes in 3.5 minutes on a Waters X-Terra MS C18 3.5μm column. UV detection was carried out at 210 nm. Analytical methods to determine activity and enantioselectivity of the whole cell biocatalyst were subsequently developed for both β-amino nitriles and β-hydroxy nitrile substrates and hydrolysis products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mathiba, Kgama
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: High performance liquid chromatography , Rhodococcus , Biocatalysis , Organic compounds -- Industrial applications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015710
- Description: Nitrile biocatalysts are of use in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries for the synthesis of carboxyamides and carboxylic acids. In particular, the application of biocatalysts in the synthesis of single enantiomer compounds is of increasing interest, but requires novel substrate specific highly stereoselective biocatalysts. Addition to the limited toolbox of known nitrile biocatalysts requires definitive characterisation of the biocatalysts through accurate determination of the substrate profiles and quantification of activity. The accurate quantification of stereoisomers chiral mixtures to determine biocatalyst stereoselectivity remains a significant challenge due to the difficulty in separating stereoisomers by physical methods. The known nitrile metabolising organism, Rhodococcus rhodochrous ATCC BAA-870, was grown in a defined medium and harvested, providing whole cell biocatalyst. Additional biomass was disrupted to provide a cell free enzyme extract, which was put through an enzyme purification protocol to provide a solution with specific activity of 351 U.mg⁻¹. A portion of the enzyme was self immobilised using the SphereZyme™ technique. The nitrile hydratase SphereZymes™ (1.2 U.mg⁻¹ initial activity) that were prepared had pH and temperature optima of 6 and 30°C respectively, and could be recovered by repeated washing. The particles retained activity in the presence of the organic solvents isooctane and n-hexadecane saturated with 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.5). An initial analytical system was devised for quantification of the nitrile hydratase activity using the non-chiral substrate benzonitrile. An improved reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography method was developed to separate and quantify benzamide, benzoic acid and benzonitrile. The mobile phase consisting of 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid in H₂O and acetonitrile (70:30, %v/v), at a flow rate of 0.5 ml.ml⁻¹, 25°C, resolved all three analytes in 3.5 minutes on a Waters X-Terra MS C18 3.5μm column. UV detection was carried out at 210 nm. Analytical methods to determine activity and enantioselectivity of the whole cell biocatalyst were subsequently developed for both β-amino nitriles and β-hydroxy nitrile substrates and hydrolysis products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Holistic juvenile justice centre: the design of a one-stop juvenile centre in Windhoek, Namibia
- Authors: Saunders, Dylan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Juvenile detention homes -- Namibia -- Windhoek -- Designs and plans Juvenile detention homes -- Buildings, structures, etc..
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39144 , vital:35048
- Description: The promotion and protection of children's rights has since independence been a 'political commitment within the country to improve the situation of children1.Namibia has ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child, whilst the Child Care and Protection Bill has been submitted to the Cabinet Committee on Legislation in 20102. Both seek to protect the rights of the child through a holistic approach. However, scepticism and uncertainty still pervades amongst the involved professional fields3. This can be attributed to the history of war and apartheid in Namibia, as well as social pressures of poverty and colonial legislation. Despite the adoption of national legislation respecting children's rights, difficulties in implementing the required procedural framework have placed Namibia at odds with international precedent4. In contrast, South Africa has developed specialised One-Stop Youth Justice Centres intended to promote the efficient operation of the juvenile legal system as part of promoting the rights of children5. Relying on inter-departmental cooperation, these centres are able to render comprehensive services to children in conflict with the law. Children are guided through the legal process after their arrest with the intended result of successful rehabilitation and integration into society. The main goal is to ensure that children are kept out of the conventional criminal justice system and only if rehabilitation has failed, will a child be sent to prison where a traditional sentence will be served. To better effect this these centres are to be located in residential areas. In light of international practises, courthouses are increasingly developing as specialised buildings tailored to the provision of the necessary services relevant to a particular type of civic or criminal offense6. Drawing a parallel to this, One-Stop Centres do not accommodate adult offenders, these centres are focussed on providing the necessary services to juvenile offenders and witnesses and victims of crimes committed by juveniles. This type of 'childfriendly' one-stop approach has unfortunately not permeated into the practices of the Namibian criminal justice system7. It is within this context that the design treatise has been investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Saunders, Dylan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Juvenile detention homes -- Namibia -- Windhoek -- Designs and plans Juvenile detention homes -- Buildings, structures, etc..
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39144 , vital:35048
- Description: The promotion and protection of children's rights has since independence been a 'political commitment within the country to improve the situation of children1.Namibia has ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child, whilst the Child Care and Protection Bill has been submitted to the Cabinet Committee on Legislation in 20102. Both seek to protect the rights of the child through a holistic approach. However, scepticism and uncertainty still pervades amongst the involved professional fields3. This can be attributed to the history of war and apartheid in Namibia, as well as social pressures of poverty and colonial legislation. Despite the adoption of national legislation respecting children's rights, difficulties in implementing the required procedural framework have placed Namibia at odds with international precedent4. In contrast, South Africa has developed specialised One-Stop Youth Justice Centres intended to promote the efficient operation of the juvenile legal system as part of promoting the rights of children5. Relying on inter-departmental cooperation, these centres are able to render comprehensive services to children in conflict with the law. Children are guided through the legal process after their arrest with the intended result of successful rehabilitation and integration into society. The main goal is to ensure that children are kept out of the conventional criminal justice system and only if rehabilitation has failed, will a child be sent to prison where a traditional sentence will be served. To better effect this these centres are to be located in residential areas. In light of international practises, courthouses are increasingly developing as specialised buildings tailored to the provision of the necessary services relevant to a particular type of civic or criminal offense6. Drawing a parallel to this, One-Stop Centres do not accommodate adult offenders, these centres are focussed on providing the necessary services to juvenile offenders and witnesses and victims of crimes committed by juveniles. This type of 'childfriendly' one-stop approach has unfortunately not permeated into the practices of the Namibian criminal justice system7. It is within this context that the design treatise has been investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
How community participation can be enhanced in the creation of sustainable human settlements in Whittlesea : a case study of Whittlesea Mabuyase housing project
- Authors: Penxa, Lungile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human settlements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020772
- Description: Development is an idea, an objective and an activity (Kothari and Minogue, 2002). Development emerged as an idea that nations had to adopt in their journey through post-war history. Development is seen as an ambiguous concept (Allen and Thomas, 1992: 23). In other words, it is defined in many ways to suit different purposes. Furthermore, over the long term development implies increased living standards, improved health and well being for all, and the achievement of whatever is regarded as a general good for society at large (Allen and Thomas, 1992: 23). Therefore, from the above development appears as a “one size fits all” concept, because it is an attempt to address the problems in society. Furthermore, development has been defined as a participatory, people-centred process intended to reduce the incidence of poverty and achieve better livelihoods for all (Kingsbury, McKay, and Hunt, 2004: 43). The definition of development as participatory and people-centred is the most applicable for the purposes of this study. Participation has been widely used in the development discourse. Within the development sphere, participation has been associated with the community sector (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). The definition of participation in development has been located in development projects and programmes (i.e. sustainable human settlements for our study purposes), as a means of strengthening their relevance, quality and sustainability (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). Strengthening of participation in local governance has to do with the strengthening of directcitizen involvement in decision-making by individuals or groups in public activities, oftenthrough newly established institutional channels, such as monitoring committees, planning processes, etc (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:8-9). Hence, participation could be seen as involvement in decision-making in all phases of a project (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). Citizen participation is about power and its exercise by different social actors in the spacescreated for the interaction between citizens and local authorities. However, the control of thestructure and processes for participation - defining spaces, actors, agendas, procedures - is usuallyin the hands governmental institutions and can become a barrier for effective involvement ofcitizens (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:7). The above discussion has been an attempt to show what participatory development or participation in a development process is all about. This has been done through briefly defining and discussing development and participation and also showing the relationship between the two concepts. Now the discussion will focus on enlightening the reader about sustainable human settlements – the main issue of this study. The decision to do research in this area came after the realization that there is still a shortage of houses in the Eastern Cape, and when the government does deliver these houses in a particular area people still have complaints regarding the new houses delivered to them. Then a question that came to mind was whether people are consulted or not before these houses are constructed during the planning stages so that they can give their own views or ideas on houses. Overall the reason for choosing this topic was to look at people’s participation on the development of houses. It is evident in the Provincial Medium Term Sustainable Human Settlement Research Agenda that community participation is lacking in the housing delivery process of the Eastern Cape (Province of the Eastern Cape Human Settlement,2011:9).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Penxa, Lungile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human settlements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020772
- Description: Development is an idea, an objective and an activity (Kothari and Minogue, 2002). Development emerged as an idea that nations had to adopt in their journey through post-war history. Development is seen as an ambiguous concept (Allen and Thomas, 1992: 23). In other words, it is defined in many ways to suit different purposes. Furthermore, over the long term development implies increased living standards, improved health and well being for all, and the achievement of whatever is regarded as a general good for society at large (Allen and Thomas, 1992: 23). Therefore, from the above development appears as a “one size fits all” concept, because it is an attempt to address the problems in society. Furthermore, development has been defined as a participatory, people-centred process intended to reduce the incidence of poverty and achieve better livelihoods for all (Kingsbury, McKay, and Hunt, 2004: 43). The definition of development as participatory and people-centred is the most applicable for the purposes of this study. Participation has been widely used in the development discourse. Within the development sphere, participation has been associated with the community sector (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). The definition of participation in development has been located in development projects and programmes (i.e. sustainable human settlements for our study purposes), as a means of strengthening their relevance, quality and sustainability (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). Strengthening of participation in local governance has to do with the strengthening of directcitizen involvement in decision-making by individuals or groups in public activities, oftenthrough newly established institutional channels, such as monitoring committees, planning processes, etc (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:8-9). Hence, participation could be seen as involvement in decision-making in all phases of a project (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:2). Citizen participation is about power and its exercise by different social actors in the spacescreated for the interaction between citizens and local authorities. However, the control of thestructure and processes for participation - defining spaces, actors, agendas, procedures - is usuallyin the hands governmental institutions and can become a barrier for effective involvement ofcitizens (Gaventa and Valderrama, 1999:7). The above discussion has been an attempt to show what participatory development or participation in a development process is all about. This has been done through briefly defining and discussing development and participation and also showing the relationship between the two concepts. Now the discussion will focus on enlightening the reader about sustainable human settlements – the main issue of this study. The decision to do research in this area came after the realization that there is still a shortage of houses in the Eastern Cape, and when the government does deliver these houses in a particular area people still have complaints regarding the new houses delivered to them. Then a question that came to mind was whether people are consulted or not before these houses are constructed during the planning stages so that they can give their own views or ideas on houses. Overall the reason for choosing this topic was to look at people’s participation on the development of houses. It is evident in the Provincial Medium Term Sustainable Human Settlement Research Agenda that community participation is lacking in the housing delivery process of the Eastern Cape (Province of the Eastern Cape Human Settlement,2011:9).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
How does the ungulate community respond to predation risk from cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) in Samara Private Game Reserve?
- Authors: Makin, Douglas Ferguson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Ungulates -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Predatory animals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Predation (Biology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10722 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018461
- Description: Predator reintroductions are becoming increasingly more common for multiple reasons, including assisting with the conservation of a predator species, the restoration of ecosystem functions and the economic benefits of their reintroduction for ecotourism ventures. There remains however, little knowledge on prey species responses to these predator reintroductions. As such, the reintroduction of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) into Samara Private Game Reserve provided an opportunity to investigate prey responses to predator reintroduction across a range of spatial and temporal scales. More specifically, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cheetah predation risk on habitat use and behavioural responses of the resident ungulate community. Samara is divided into “predator present” and “predator absent” sections, providing the opportunity to conduct a comparative study investigating the effect of cheetah on prey responses. It was hypothesized that different ungulate species would respond differently to the presence of cheetah, depending on differences in perceived vulnerability to cheetah predation. To address this, shifts in habitat use, and behavioural responses of the ungulate community reflected at landscape and patch scale were investigated. Overall, ungulate species have not shifted habitat use since cheetah reintroduction, this was possibly related to life history strategy constraints and the need for individuals to obtain suitable forage and therefore remain in specific habitats. While no shift in habitat use was observed for the majority of ungulate species, a shift in behaviour was observed for kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) at a landscape scale, where kudu dedicated more time to vigilance and less time to foraging within the predator section. In addition, individuals within smaller kudu groups were observed to be more vigilant than individuals within larger groups of kudu within the predator section. Although the other three ungulate species monitored did not increase time spent vigilant within the predator section, they still maintained relatively high levels of vigilance, potentially as a means of social monitoring. At a patch level, ungulate species responded strongly to a predator cue as a proxy for cheetah proximity, and increased time spent vigilant with a trade-off of lower foraging effort. This vigilant response was strongest for kudu. Differences in perceived predation risk were reflected within eland (Tragelaphus oryx) and kudu species demographic classes, with juvenile eland and kudu, adult female kudu and subadult female kudu spending more time vigilant within manipulated patches than respective males of each species. Kudu were also observed adopting fine-scale behavioural responses to minimize predation risk within patches. The asymmetrical prey species response to perceived predation risk from cheetah supports the hypothesis that different species respond differently to the presence of a predator. Furthermore, this study illustrated the importance of measuring prey responses to predation risk across multiple scales and highlighted the need to replicate this study for a number of different sites where predators have been reintroduced, to better understand the range of factors influencing these predator-prey interactions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Makin, Douglas Ferguson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Ungulates -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Predatory animals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Predation (Biology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10722 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018461
- Description: Predator reintroductions are becoming increasingly more common for multiple reasons, including assisting with the conservation of a predator species, the restoration of ecosystem functions and the economic benefits of their reintroduction for ecotourism ventures. There remains however, little knowledge on prey species responses to these predator reintroductions. As such, the reintroduction of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) into Samara Private Game Reserve provided an opportunity to investigate prey responses to predator reintroduction across a range of spatial and temporal scales. More specifically, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cheetah predation risk on habitat use and behavioural responses of the resident ungulate community. Samara is divided into “predator present” and “predator absent” sections, providing the opportunity to conduct a comparative study investigating the effect of cheetah on prey responses. It was hypothesized that different ungulate species would respond differently to the presence of cheetah, depending on differences in perceived vulnerability to cheetah predation. To address this, shifts in habitat use, and behavioural responses of the ungulate community reflected at landscape and patch scale were investigated. Overall, ungulate species have not shifted habitat use since cheetah reintroduction, this was possibly related to life history strategy constraints and the need for individuals to obtain suitable forage and therefore remain in specific habitats. While no shift in habitat use was observed for the majority of ungulate species, a shift in behaviour was observed for kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) at a landscape scale, where kudu dedicated more time to vigilance and less time to foraging within the predator section. In addition, individuals within smaller kudu groups were observed to be more vigilant than individuals within larger groups of kudu within the predator section. Although the other three ungulate species monitored did not increase time spent vigilant within the predator section, they still maintained relatively high levels of vigilance, potentially as a means of social monitoring. At a patch level, ungulate species responded strongly to a predator cue as a proxy for cheetah proximity, and increased time spent vigilant with a trade-off of lower foraging effort. This vigilant response was strongest for kudu. Differences in perceived predation risk were reflected within eland (Tragelaphus oryx) and kudu species demographic classes, with juvenile eland and kudu, adult female kudu and subadult female kudu spending more time vigilant within manipulated patches than respective males of each species. Kudu were also observed adopting fine-scale behavioural responses to minimize predation risk within patches. The asymmetrical prey species response to perceived predation risk from cheetah supports the hypothesis that different species respond differently to the presence of a predator. Furthermore, this study illustrated the importance of measuring prey responses to predation risk across multiple scales and highlighted the need to replicate this study for a number of different sites where predators have been reintroduced, to better understand the range of factors influencing these predator-prey interactions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
How female street vendors in Nelson Mandela Bay are organized
- Authors: Tyida, Vuyokazi Andisiwe
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Merchants -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012674 , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Merchants -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Description: As one of the most impoverished provinces in South Africa with a high unemployment rate the Eastern Cape (Stats SA, 2011) was more suited for a study of this nature. In executing the research aims and objectives the study will be limited to focus specifically on one of the provinces cities, the Nelson Mandela Bay. The investigation will be focused on women street vendors mainly trading with fruits and vegetables, as well as other perishables. This industry was chosen because according to the Labour Force Survey (2000), there was an estimated 500,000 street traders operating in South Africa and more than 70 percent of them were found to be dealing in the trade of food items (Motala, 2002). The focus on women was driven by mainly by the fact that they constitute a majority of the street traders that are involed in the sale perishables/food items (Skinner, 2008).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tyida, Vuyokazi Andisiwe
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Merchants -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012674 , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Merchants -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Description: As one of the most impoverished provinces in South Africa with a high unemployment rate the Eastern Cape (Stats SA, 2011) was more suited for a study of this nature. In executing the research aims and objectives the study will be limited to focus specifically on one of the provinces cities, the Nelson Mandela Bay. The investigation will be focused on women street vendors mainly trading with fruits and vegetables, as well as other perishables. This industry was chosen because according to the Labour Force Survey (2000), there was an estimated 500,000 street traders operating in South Africa and more than 70 percent of them were found to be dealing in the trade of food items (Motala, 2002). The focus on women was driven by mainly by the fact that they constitute a majority of the street traders that are involed in the sale perishables/food items (Skinner, 2008).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Identifying expansive learning opportunities to foster a more sustainable food economy: a case study of Rhodes University dining halls
- Authors: Agbedahin, Adesuwa Vanessa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Food supply -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Case studies Food industry and trade -- Education (Higher) -- Standards -- South Africa -- Case studies Food service employees -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003442
- Description: This is a one year half thesis. This research was conducted within the context of the food services sector of Higher Education Institution dining halls and in the midst of the rising global call for food resource management and food waste reduction. The main aim of this research therefore was to identify opportunities for learning and change for a more sustainable food economy, contributing to Education for Sustainable Production and Consumption, and by further implication, Education for Sustainable Development. To achieve this aim, I used Cultural Historical Activity Theory as theoretical and methodological framework; drawing on the second and the third generations of this theory. Implicated in the above research approach is the identification of expansive learning opportunities from the surfacing of ‘tensions’ and ‘contradictions’. In this case study of the Rhodes University Campus Food Services, such tensions and contradictions inhibiting a more sustainable food economy, involving food waste production were identified. To narrow the scope of the study, one dining hall formed the focus of the case, with a two phased research approach whereby one research question and three goals were developed for each phase. The former being the exploration phase and the latter being the initial stages of the expansive phase. Methods used in line with the methodological framework included ten individual interviews with food producers (staff members), nine focus group discussions with food consumers (students), observations of the dining hall activities which lasted for over a month and two ‘Change Laboratory Workshops’. Some of the findings of this research are that food wastage cannot be addressed and appropriately curtailed without an intensive consideration of all the stages of food economy. Multiple contradictions and sources of tensions embedded in the Food Services Sector constituted major causes of food waste. Additionally, the lack of substantial food waste related teaching and learning activities, the presence of disputed rules, institutional structure and traditional practices within the Food Services all exacerbated the tensions and contradictions. More so, prioritizing some of this identified contradictions and tensions hindering a more sustainable food economy and relegating some as unimportant or nonurgent is unproductive. Finally, the non-existence of facilitated deliberation, consultation, dialogue, collaboration between food producers and food consumers has been identified as an obstacle to learning and institutional change. Recommendations abound in re-orienting, re-educating, and re-informing the constituents of the food economy. Re-visiting and revising of rules and regulations guiding conduct of students and kitchen staff members in the RU dining halls, as well as revision of existing learning support materials and mediating tools in use is needed. Recognition and consideration of the concerns and interests of students and kitchen staff members are also needed. Finally, there is a need to continue to address the tensions and contradictions identified in this case study, to further the Expansive Learning Process if a more sustainable food economy at Rhodes University is to be established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Agbedahin, Adesuwa Vanessa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Food supply -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Case studies Food industry and trade -- Education (Higher) -- Standards -- South Africa -- Case studies Food service employees -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003442
- Description: This is a one year half thesis. This research was conducted within the context of the food services sector of Higher Education Institution dining halls and in the midst of the rising global call for food resource management and food waste reduction. The main aim of this research therefore was to identify opportunities for learning and change for a more sustainable food economy, contributing to Education for Sustainable Production and Consumption, and by further implication, Education for Sustainable Development. To achieve this aim, I used Cultural Historical Activity Theory as theoretical and methodological framework; drawing on the second and the third generations of this theory. Implicated in the above research approach is the identification of expansive learning opportunities from the surfacing of ‘tensions’ and ‘contradictions’. In this case study of the Rhodes University Campus Food Services, such tensions and contradictions inhibiting a more sustainable food economy, involving food waste production were identified. To narrow the scope of the study, one dining hall formed the focus of the case, with a two phased research approach whereby one research question and three goals were developed for each phase. The former being the exploration phase and the latter being the initial stages of the expansive phase. Methods used in line with the methodological framework included ten individual interviews with food producers (staff members), nine focus group discussions with food consumers (students), observations of the dining hall activities which lasted for over a month and two ‘Change Laboratory Workshops’. Some of the findings of this research are that food wastage cannot be addressed and appropriately curtailed without an intensive consideration of all the stages of food economy. Multiple contradictions and sources of tensions embedded in the Food Services Sector constituted major causes of food waste. Additionally, the lack of substantial food waste related teaching and learning activities, the presence of disputed rules, institutional structure and traditional practices within the Food Services all exacerbated the tensions and contradictions. More so, prioritizing some of this identified contradictions and tensions hindering a more sustainable food economy and relegating some as unimportant or nonurgent is unproductive. Finally, the non-existence of facilitated deliberation, consultation, dialogue, collaboration between food producers and food consumers has been identified as an obstacle to learning and institutional change. Recommendations abound in re-orienting, re-educating, and re-informing the constituents of the food economy. Re-visiting and revising of rules and regulations guiding conduct of students and kitchen staff members in the RU dining halls, as well as revision of existing learning support materials and mediating tools in use is needed. Recognition and consideration of the concerns and interests of students and kitchen staff members are also needed. Finally, there is a need to continue to address the tensions and contradictions identified in this case study, to further the Expansive Learning Process if a more sustainable food economy at Rhodes University is to be established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Identifying volatile emissions associated with False Codling Moth infested citrus fruit
- Authors: Van der Walt, Rachel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Citrus -- Diseases and pests , Insect pests , Cryptophlebia leucotreta
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020056
- Description: False codling moth is a known pest of economic importance to many cultivated crops in South Africa and Africa south of the Sahara, and is particularly severe on citrus. If the fruit is infested just before harvest the chances of detecting signs of infestation are very low. As a result, the risk of packaging infested fruit and exporting them as healthy fruit is high. It is therefore a priority to develop a post-harvest technique for detection of False codling moth in citrus fruit at different levels of infestation in order to reduce phytosanitary risk. Compounds released and detected were indicative of infestation and were not insect produced but naturally produced fruit volatiles emitted at higher levels as a result of the insect within the fruit. Five major volatile compounds of interest were released by the infested oranges. These major volatile compounds include D-limonene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, caryophyllene and naphthalene. Limonene was one of the most abundant volatile compounds released by the infested citrus fruit. Naphthalene, which is possibly produced due to larval feeding and development within the fruit maintained higher concentrations than controls throughout the infestation within the fruit. Naphthalene would be a good indicator of False codling moth infestation, however, not primarily for early infestation detection. A significantly higher concentration of D-limonene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene and naphthalene was detected using the SEP over the SPME technique. The application of an SPME procedure and the utilization of this method for detection of volatiles present in the headspace of intact infested fruit are evaluated and the possible volatile compounds diagnostic of Thaumatotibia leucotreta infestation of orange fruit and differences in volatile compound response in different orange varieties is discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Van der Walt, Rachel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Citrus -- Diseases and pests , Insect pests , Cryptophlebia leucotreta
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020056
- Description: False codling moth is a known pest of economic importance to many cultivated crops in South Africa and Africa south of the Sahara, and is particularly severe on citrus. If the fruit is infested just before harvest the chances of detecting signs of infestation are very low. As a result, the risk of packaging infested fruit and exporting them as healthy fruit is high. It is therefore a priority to develop a post-harvest technique for detection of False codling moth in citrus fruit at different levels of infestation in order to reduce phytosanitary risk. Compounds released and detected were indicative of infestation and were not insect produced but naturally produced fruit volatiles emitted at higher levels as a result of the insect within the fruit. Five major volatile compounds of interest were released by the infested oranges. These major volatile compounds include D-limonene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, caryophyllene and naphthalene. Limonene was one of the most abundant volatile compounds released by the infested citrus fruit. Naphthalene, which is possibly produced due to larval feeding and development within the fruit maintained higher concentrations than controls throughout the infestation within the fruit. Naphthalene would be a good indicator of False codling moth infestation, however, not primarily for early infestation detection. A significantly higher concentration of D-limonene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene and naphthalene was detected using the SEP over the SPME technique. The application of an SPME procedure and the utilization of this method for detection of volatiles present in the headspace of intact infested fruit are evaluated and the possible volatile compounds diagnostic of Thaumatotibia leucotreta infestation of orange fruit and differences in volatile compound response in different orange varieties is discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Illustrated medicines information for HIV/AIDS patients: influence on adherence,self-efficacy and health outcomes
- Authors: Barford, Kirsty-Lee
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- South Africa , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa , Communication in medicine -- South Africa , Communication in public health -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015678
- Description: South Africa has an estimated 920 000 patients on antiretrovirals (ARVs), the largest number of patients in any country. ARV therapy demands adherence levels in excess of 95% to avoid development of drug resistance, but adherence to ARV therapy is estimated to be only between 50% and 70%. Poor medication adherence is acknowledged as a major public health problem, reducing the effectiveness of therapy and promoting resistance to ARVs. More than two thirds of the South African population have marginal reading skills and this significantly influences a patient’s ability to read and understand health-related information. Patient education materials tailored for the South African population could be a useful aid in facilitating communication with patients and perhaps impact positively on their medicine-taking behaviour. This behaviour is influenced by patient knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and expectations and includes self-management, self-efficacy and adherence. Self-efficacy, which refers to patient confidence in the ability to self-manage medicine taking, is a key factor influencing adherence. This study aimed to develop illustrated patient information leaflets (PILs) and medicine labels for all first-line ARV regimens used in the public health sector in South Africa and, using a randomised control study design, to investigate the impact of these illustrated information materials on knowledge, medication-taking behaviours and health outcomes in HIV/AIDS patients taking ARVs. To achieve this aim, the objectives were to assess HIV/AIDS and ARV-related knowledge, as well as self-efficacy and adherence to ARV therapy; to assess the influence of demographic variables on knowledge, adherence and self-efficacy; to assess the influence of the information materials on knowledge, self-efficacy and adherence and to assess the association of knowledge with health outcomes. Medicine labels and PILs, both English and isiXhosa, were developed for ARV regimens 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d. The 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and HIV Treatment Adherence Self Efficacy Scale (HIV-ASES) instruments for measuring respectively adherence and self-efficacy, were modified to optimize clarity, simplicity and cultural acceptability and were translated into isiXhosa using a multi-stage translation-back translation. The questions and the rating scales, for both the MMAS and HIV-ASES, underwent preliminary qualitative evaluation in focus group discussions. Patients were recruited from local Grahamstown clinics. A pilot study to evaluate applicability of the instruments was conducted in 16 isiXhosa AIDS patients on ARVs and the results from this study informed further modifications to the instruments. One hundred and seventeen patients were recruited for the randomised control trial and were randomly allocated to either control group (who received standard care) or experimental group (who received standard care as well as pictogram medicine labels and the illustrated PIL). Interviews were conducted at baseline and at one, three and six months. Data were analysed statistically using the t-test, chi-squared test and ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) at a 5% level of significance. Correlations were determined using Pearson and Spearman rho correlations. Approval was obtained from Rhodes University Ethical Standards Committee, Settlers Hospital Ethics Committee and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. The results of this research showed that illustrated PILs and medicine labels enhanced understanding of HIV/AIDS and ARV information, resulting in a mean overall knowledge score in the experimental group of 96%, which was significantly higher than the 75% measured in the control group. Variable knowledge scores were measured in three areas: baseline knowledge of general HIV/AIDS-related information was good at 87%, whereas knowledge scores relating to ARV-related information (60%) and side-effects (52%) were lower. These scores improved significantly in the experimental group over the 4 interviews during the 6 month trial duration, whereas in the control group, they fluctuated only slightly around the original baseline score. There was no significant influence of gender on knowledge score, whereas health literacy, education level and age tested (at one and three months) had a significant influence on knowledge. Self-efficacy and adherence results were high, indicating that the patients have confidence in their ability to adhere to the ARV therapy and to practice optimal self-care. Age, gender and education, in most cases, significantly influenced self-efficacy, but were found to have no effect on adherence. The CD4 count improved over the trial duration which may have been influenced by a number of factors, including better knowledge of ARVs and improved adherence. No significant parametric correlation was found between knowledge score and change in CD4 count, however, Spearman's rho showed significance (rs=0.498; p=0.022). Both patients and healthcare providers were highly enthusiastic about the illustrated labels and PILs, and indicated their desire for such materials to be routinely available to public sector HIV/AIDS patients. The isiXhosa version of the PIL was preferred by all the patients. These simple, easy-to-read leaflets and illustrated medication labels were shown to increase understanding and knowledge of ARVs and HIV/AIDS in low-literate patients, and their availability in the first-language of the patients was central to making them a highly useful information source.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Barford, Kirsty-Lee
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- South Africa , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa , Communication in medicine -- South Africa , Communication in public health -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015678
- Description: South Africa has an estimated 920 000 patients on antiretrovirals (ARVs), the largest number of patients in any country. ARV therapy demands adherence levels in excess of 95% to avoid development of drug resistance, but adherence to ARV therapy is estimated to be only between 50% and 70%. Poor medication adherence is acknowledged as a major public health problem, reducing the effectiveness of therapy and promoting resistance to ARVs. More than two thirds of the South African population have marginal reading skills and this significantly influences a patient’s ability to read and understand health-related information. Patient education materials tailored for the South African population could be a useful aid in facilitating communication with patients and perhaps impact positively on their medicine-taking behaviour. This behaviour is influenced by patient knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and expectations and includes self-management, self-efficacy and adherence. Self-efficacy, which refers to patient confidence in the ability to self-manage medicine taking, is a key factor influencing adherence. This study aimed to develop illustrated patient information leaflets (PILs) and medicine labels for all first-line ARV regimens used in the public health sector in South Africa and, using a randomised control study design, to investigate the impact of these illustrated information materials on knowledge, medication-taking behaviours and health outcomes in HIV/AIDS patients taking ARVs. To achieve this aim, the objectives were to assess HIV/AIDS and ARV-related knowledge, as well as self-efficacy and adherence to ARV therapy; to assess the influence of demographic variables on knowledge, adherence and self-efficacy; to assess the influence of the information materials on knowledge, self-efficacy and adherence and to assess the association of knowledge with health outcomes. Medicine labels and PILs, both English and isiXhosa, were developed for ARV regimens 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d. The 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and HIV Treatment Adherence Self Efficacy Scale (HIV-ASES) instruments for measuring respectively adherence and self-efficacy, were modified to optimize clarity, simplicity and cultural acceptability and were translated into isiXhosa using a multi-stage translation-back translation. The questions and the rating scales, for both the MMAS and HIV-ASES, underwent preliminary qualitative evaluation in focus group discussions. Patients were recruited from local Grahamstown clinics. A pilot study to evaluate applicability of the instruments was conducted in 16 isiXhosa AIDS patients on ARVs and the results from this study informed further modifications to the instruments. One hundred and seventeen patients were recruited for the randomised control trial and were randomly allocated to either control group (who received standard care) or experimental group (who received standard care as well as pictogram medicine labels and the illustrated PIL). Interviews were conducted at baseline and at one, three and six months. Data were analysed statistically using the t-test, chi-squared test and ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) at a 5% level of significance. Correlations were determined using Pearson and Spearman rho correlations. Approval was obtained from Rhodes University Ethical Standards Committee, Settlers Hospital Ethics Committee and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. The results of this research showed that illustrated PILs and medicine labels enhanced understanding of HIV/AIDS and ARV information, resulting in a mean overall knowledge score in the experimental group of 96%, which was significantly higher than the 75% measured in the control group. Variable knowledge scores were measured in three areas: baseline knowledge of general HIV/AIDS-related information was good at 87%, whereas knowledge scores relating to ARV-related information (60%) and side-effects (52%) were lower. These scores improved significantly in the experimental group over the 4 interviews during the 6 month trial duration, whereas in the control group, they fluctuated only slightly around the original baseline score. There was no significant influence of gender on knowledge score, whereas health literacy, education level and age tested (at one and three months) had a significant influence on knowledge. Self-efficacy and adherence results were high, indicating that the patients have confidence in their ability to adhere to the ARV therapy and to practice optimal self-care. Age, gender and education, in most cases, significantly influenced self-efficacy, but were found to have no effect on adherence. The CD4 count improved over the trial duration which may have been influenced by a number of factors, including better knowledge of ARVs and improved adherence. No significant parametric correlation was found between knowledge score and change in CD4 count, however, Spearman's rho showed significance (rs=0.498; p=0.022). Both patients and healthcare providers were highly enthusiastic about the illustrated labels and PILs, and indicated their desire for such materials to be routinely available to public sector HIV/AIDS patients. The isiXhosa version of the PIL was preferred by all the patients. These simple, easy-to-read leaflets and illustrated medication labels were shown to increase understanding and knowledge of ARVs and HIV/AIDS in low-literate patients, and their availability in the first-language of the patients was central to making them a highly useful information source.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Impact of animal traction power on agricultural productivity: case of lowlands of Mohale's Hoek district of Lesotho
- Rampokanyo, Lepolesa Michael
- Authors: Rampokanyo, Lepolesa Michael
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/483 , Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Description: Most farming at subsistence level is located in rural areas where the majority of smallholder farmers have low productivity which results in high rate of food insecurity. The areas are characterised by animal traction and poor farming practises, and monoculture is mostly preferred. In light of this, this study analyzed the impact of animal power on agricultural productivity. Smallholder farmers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district of Lesotho were investigated by means of a case study methodology. The aim of the study was to inform agricultural policy about the level and key determinants of inefficiency in the smallholder farming system so as to contribute to policy designed to raise productivity of smallholder farmers. The sampling frame comprised farmers and extension workers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district. From this frame, 118 farmers and 4 extension workers were randomly selected from four villages, namely‘Mapotsane, Potsane, Tsoloane and Siloe. The four groups of farmers include; the farmers owning and using cattle for ploughing, farmers owning tractor and cattle and using them for ploughing, farmers owning tractor only and using it for ploughing, and farmers who owned neither cattle nor tractor and normally hire these when ploughing operations are to be done on the farm. The interviews of these farmers and extension workers were conducted by means of semi-structured questionnaire which consisted of both open and close ended questions. The study used the stochastic frontier production model for the production efficiencies and linear regression model for the impact of animal traction on agricultural productivity. Both procedures provided insights into the relative contributions of animal power and traditional systems to poverty alleviation and food security in the project areas. Descriptive statistics were employed for farming systems and challenges facing small scale farmers. Gross Margins analysis was conducted for the animal power and tractor power yield levels for maize crop to compare the two types of power. Some diagnostic tests to detect serial correlation and heteroskedasticity and t-tests were also performed. The significant variables include the area of sorghum ploughed, members of the household that assist with family labour, education, quantity of fertilizer applied, time taken by the farmers in farming, members who are formally employed, household size, area of land ploughed, old age, costs of tractor and animal, marital status, income, area of maize ploughed, area of sorghum ploughed, quantity of fertilizers applied, costs of seeds and fertilizers applied, maize and sorghum yield and amount sold and consumed. The study revealed that monoculture is mainly practised and many smallholder farmers used traditional technologies that fail to replace nutrients in the soil. Nonetheless family labour was not a problem. During the farming season, tractors were used as the main source of power for ploughing. Most farmers hired these for maize production as it is a staple food crop even where animal power is available. It was noted that the tractors were few and in most cases old and malfunctioning. The cost of using animals in farming obviouslyplayed a role in the production of both maize v and sorghum in the lowland areas of Mohale’s Hoek district. Smallholder farmers who owned both tractors and animals produced more but they were mainly affected by high costs of maintaining the aging tractors, generally purchased on the used-equipment market. The increased challenges resulted in lower productivity of the smallholder farmers, including: unhealthy animals, drought, marketing problems, late ploughing, poor soils, lack of extension services, low yields, low income, lack of information, lack of appropriate implements, lack of support services, nutrition inadequacy, inappropriate farming systems. The study recommended the adoption and promotion of low-cost mechanization in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district so as to increase the production of the smallholder farmers. Increased productivity will in turn improve household food security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Rampokanyo, Lepolesa Michael
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/483 , Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Description: Most farming at subsistence level is located in rural areas where the majority of smallholder farmers have low productivity which results in high rate of food insecurity. The areas are characterised by animal traction and poor farming practises, and monoculture is mostly preferred. In light of this, this study analyzed the impact of animal power on agricultural productivity. Smallholder farmers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district of Lesotho were investigated by means of a case study methodology. The aim of the study was to inform agricultural policy about the level and key determinants of inefficiency in the smallholder farming system so as to contribute to policy designed to raise productivity of smallholder farmers. The sampling frame comprised farmers and extension workers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district. From this frame, 118 farmers and 4 extension workers were randomly selected from four villages, namely‘Mapotsane, Potsane, Tsoloane and Siloe. The four groups of farmers include; the farmers owning and using cattle for ploughing, farmers owning tractor and cattle and using them for ploughing, farmers owning tractor only and using it for ploughing, and farmers who owned neither cattle nor tractor and normally hire these when ploughing operations are to be done on the farm. The interviews of these farmers and extension workers were conducted by means of semi-structured questionnaire which consisted of both open and close ended questions. The study used the stochastic frontier production model for the production efficiencies and linear regression model for the impact of animal traction on agricultural productivity. Both procedures provided insights into the relative contributions of animal power and traditional systems to poverty alleviation and food security in the project areas. Descriptive statistics were employed for farming systems and challenges facing small scale farmers. Gross Margins analysis was conducted for the animal power and tractor power yield levels for maize crop to compare the two types of power. Some diagnostic tests to detect serial correlation and heteroskedasticity and t-tests were also performed. The significant variables include the area of sorghum ploughed, members of the household that assist with family labour, education, quantity of fertilizer applied, time taken by the farmers in farming, members who are formally employed, household size, area of land ploughed, old age, costs of tractor and animal, marital status, income, area of maize ploughed, area of sorghum ploughed, quantity of fertilizers applied, costs of seeds and fertilizers applied, maize and sorghum yield and amount sold and consumed. The study revealed that monoculture is mainly practised and many smallholder farmers used traditional technologies that fail to replace nutrients in the soil. Nonetheless family labour was not a problem. During the farming season, tractors were used as the main source of power for ploughing. Most farmers hired these for maize production as it is a staple food crop even where animal power is available. It was noted that the tractors were few and in most cases old and malfunctioning. The cost of using animals in farming obviouslyplayed a role in the production of both maize v and sorghum in the lowland areas of Mohale’s Hoek district. Smallholder farmers who owned both tractors and animals produced more but they were mainly affected by high costs of maintaining the aging tractors, generally purchased on the used-equipment market. The increased challenges resulted in lower productivity of the smallholder farmers, including: unhealthy animals, drought, marketing problems, late ploughing, poor soils, lack of extension services, low yields, low income, lack of information, lack of appropriate implements, lack of support services, nutrition inadequacy, inappropriate farming systems. The study recommended the adoption and promotion of low-cost mechanization in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district so as to increase the production of the smallholder farmers. Increased productivity will in turn improve household food security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Impact of economic freedom on CEMAC countries
- Authors: Ossono NII, Edith Gloria
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Free enterprise , Economic development , Monetary policy -- Africa, Central , Africa, Central -- Economic integration , Africa, Central -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019713
- Description: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of economic freedom on economic growth and investments in the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). The region was created in 1994 by the six states of Cameroon, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. CEMAC countries comprise low and middle-income countries that share the same currency - the CFA Franc. The CEMAC countries were observed between 1995 and 2008 and panel regression methodologies were employed. A positive impact of economic freedom on economic growth was established using fixed effects method and the generalised method of moments. The impact of a unit increase in the economic freedom index on GDP per capita ranged between 72.65 and 124.51 units (dollars) increase on GDP per capita, ceteris paribus. Economic freedom was also found to Granger-cause economic growth. The results underline a significantly positive relationship between economic freedom and economic growth which is consistent with existing literature. The impact of economic freedom on domestic investment and foreign directs investment was then examined. With regard to domestic investment, economic freedom was found to be statistically significant and positive in all specifications of the model, thereby implying that a unit increase in the economic freedom index increases domestic investment by values of between 0.50 and 0.69 dollars in the CEMAC. The results obtained were consistent with most findings on the relationship between economic freedom and investments. With regard to the relationship between economic freedom and foreign direct investment inflows, economic freedom was unexpectedly statistically insignificant in most specifications of the model. The latter implies that economic freedom does not have a significant impact on foreign direct investment in the CEMAC. However, the study revealed that economic freedom Granger-causes foreign direct investment but foreign direct investment does not Granger-cause economic freedom. This means that economic freedom precedes foreign direct investments, and foreign direct investments do not precede economic freedom. The study strongly recommends an improvement of institutions in the CEMAC in order to enjoy greater levels of economic freedom and therefore foster economic growth and domestic investment in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ossono NII, Edith Gloria
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Free enterprise , Economic development , Monetary policy -- Africa, Central , Africa, Central -- Economic integration , Africa, Central -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019713
- Description: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of economic freedom on economic growth and investments in the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). The region was created in 1994 by the six states of Cameroon, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. CEMAC countries comprise low and middle-income countries that share the same currency - the CFA Franc. The CEMAC countries were observed between 1995 and 2008 and panel regression methodologies were employed. A positive impact of economic freedom on economic growth was established using fixed effects method and the generalised method of moments. The impact of a unit increase in the economic freedom index on GDP per capita ranged between 72.65 and 124.51 units (dollars) increase on GDP per capita, ceteris paribus. Economic freedom was also found to Granger-cause economic growth. The results underline a significantly positive relationship between economic freedom and economic growth which is consistent with existing literature. The impact of economic freedom on domestic investment and foreign directs investment was then examined. With regard to domestic investment, economic freedom was found to be statistically significant and positive in all specifications of the model, thereby implying that a unit increase in the economic freedom index increases domestic investment by values of between 0.50 and 0.69 dollars in the CEMAC. The results obtained were consistent with most findings on the relationship between economic freedom and investments. With regard to the relationship between economic freedom and foreign direct investment inflows, economic freedom was unexpectedly statistically insignificant in most specifications of the model. The latter implies that economic freedom does not have a significant impact on foreign direct investment in the CEMAC. However, the study revealed that economic freedom Granger-causes foreign direct investment but foreign direct investment does not Granger-cause economic freedom. This means that economic freedom precedes foreign direct investments, and foreign direct investments do not precede economic freedom. The study strongly recommends an improvement of institutions in the CEMAC in order to enjoy greater levels of economic freedom and therefore foster economic growth and domestic investment in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on trust and information sharing in South African automotive supply chains
- Authors: Goche, Chiedza
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Interorganizational relations -- South Africa , Trust -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Prisoner's dilemma game
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/668 , vital:26486 , Business logistics -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Interorganizational relations -- South Africa , Trust -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Prisoner's dilemma game
- Description: The Internet has made a considerable impact on how business is conducted. Empowered by technology consumers are using the Internet as a tool to communicate and transact online. E-commerce (electronic commerce) presents opportunities for business to gain a competitive advantage, however it also posses certain challenges. Small and Medium Hospitality Enterprises (SMHEs) sector within the tourism industry, is one of the sectors which stands to benefit from using the Internet for business. Researchers agree that the contribution made by the tourism sector in developing economies is substantial. However, SMHEs are noted for their failure to derive optimal benefits from using the Internet for business to improve their competitiveness. This study which seeks to develop a model for use by SMHEs as a guide when making the decision to adopt technology was necessitated by the importance of SMHE’s contribution in the economy of developing countries. This model is based on the examination of existing theories and models such as; the Delone and McLean IS success model (2004), and the ITGI’s (2007) IT governance focus areas model. To elicit the desired outcomes, additional data was collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The collected data was analysed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by SMHEs in order to derive value from IT and to gain a competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Goche, Chiedza
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Interorganizational relations -- South Africa , Trust -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Prisoner's dilemma game
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/668 , vital:26486 , Business logistics -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Interorganizational relations -- South Africa , Trust -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Prisoner's dilemma game
- Description: The Internet has made a considerable impact on how business is conducted. Empowered by technology consumers are using the Internet as a tool to communicate and transact online. E-commerce (electronic commerce) presents opportunities for business to gain a competitive advantage, however it also posses certain challenges. Small and Medium Hospitality Enterprises (SMHEs) sector within the tourism industry, is one of the sectors which stands to benefit from using the Internet for business. Researchers agree that the contribution made by the tourism sector in developing economies is substantial. However, SMHEs are noted for their failure to derive optimal benefits from using the Internet for business to improve their competitiveness. This study which seeks to develop a model for use by SMHEs as a guide when making the decision to adopt technology was necessitated by the importance of SMHE’s contribution in the economy of developing countries. This model is based on the examination of existing theories and models such as; the Delone and McLean IS success model (2004), and the ITGI’s (2007) IT governance focus areas model. To elicit the desired outcomes, additional data was collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The collected data was analysed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by SMHEs in order to derive value from IT and to gain a competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Impact of social media on the brand image of a higher education institution
- Authors: Visser, Ilze
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) , Social media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9292 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011274 , Branding (Marketing) , Social media
- Description: Social media is an unexplored and new area, for both businesses and academia. Many institutions are not confident on how to improve their business through the use of social media, neither for internal or external purposes. Social media is nevertheless immense among private persons (Wikström & Wigmo 2010:1) and to ignore this would be a critical mistake by marketing communicators, regardless of the economic sector in which they operate. Therefore, this study intended to expand on the current limited knowledge and information available relating to the use of social media by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to improve their brand image. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate and empirically test the impact of selected Brand identity variables (Brand reputation, Brand relevance, Brand personality, Brand performance and Brand relationship) on the Brand image of a HEI, through the use of social media. The focus was on the impact of social media (Facebook) on the brand image of a Higher Education Institution (HEI), namely the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), which was used as the sample for this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Visser, Ilze
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) , Social media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9292 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011274 , Branding (Marketing) , Social media
- Description: Social media is an unexplored and new area, for both businesses and academia. Many institutions are not confident on how to improve their business through the use of social media, neither for internal or external purposes. Social media is nevertheless immense among private persons (Wikström & Wigmo 2010:1) and to ignore this would be a critical mistake by marketing communicators, regardless of the economic sector in which they operate. Therefore, this study intended to expand on the current limited knowledge and information available relating to the use of social media by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to improve their brand image. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate and empirically test the impact of selected Brand identity variables (Brand reputation, Brand relevance, Brand personality, Brand performance and Brand relationship) on the Brand image of a HEI, through the use of social media. The focus was on the impact of social media (Facebook) on the brand image of a Higher Education Institution (HEI), namely the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), which was used as the sample for this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O.R. Tambo District municipality
- Sotshongaye, Sibongile Goodman
- Authors: Sotshongaye, Sibongile Goodman
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020028
- Description: This treatise investigates the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The treatise comprises five chapters. The study is based on the assumption that O R Tambo District Municipality, like any other municipality in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape, is confronted with the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation. ORTDM has a performance-management system that is not fully implemented, and needs to put into context its challenges, in order to appropriately make those interventions relevant to the situation. The fact that the performance- management system has not yet been cascaded to the lower level employees creates difficulties in performance monitoring and evaluation. There has been a deep concern that municipalities are underperforming, and yet with no visible steps being taken to improve the situation. If the O R Tambo District Municipality is attempting to achieve the objectives of the local government, as stated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, it is then necessary to properly implement performance monitoring and evaluation, as mechanisms to accelerate service delivery. This has the potential to improve the quality of life of the citizens of O R Tambo District Municipality. This study provides the general background to the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation, the determinants of performance monitoring and evaluation, as well as the theories used in performance monitoring and evaluation will be addressed. The study presents the findings resulting from the analysis of the data provided by the respondents. Amongst the findings of the study there is a view that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have monitoring and evaluation specialists who could ensure that performance is being periodically evaluated, in order to close policy gaps that might be in existence. Non-involvement or partial involvement of communities has the potential to cause stagnation, as people generally lack monitoring skills. Some of the ecommendations include: the skills development of all the stakeholders, especially those with the mandate to deliver on behalf of government, that is, political office bearers, together with the technical support wing. Performance monitoring and evaluation under the proposed recommendations could be enhanced and positive changes could be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Sotshongaye, Sibongile Goodman
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020028
- Description: This treatise investigates the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The treatise comprises five chapters. The study is based on the assumption that O R Tambo District Municipality, like any other municipality in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape, is confronted with the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation. ORTDM has a performance-management system that is not fully implemented, and needs to put into context its challenges, in order to appropriately make those interventions relevant to the situation. The fact that the performance- management system has not yet been cascaded to the lower level employees creates difficulties in performance monitoring and evaluation. There has been a deep concern that municipalities are underperforming, and yet with no visible steps being taken to improve the situation. If the O R Tambo District Municipality is attempting to achieve the objectives of the local government, as stated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, it is then necessary to properly implement performance monitoring and evaluation, as mechanisms to accelerate service delivery. This has the potential to improve the quality of life of the citizens of O R Tambo District Municipality. This study provides the general background to the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation, the determinants of performance monitoring and evaluation, as well as the theories used in performance monitoring and evaluation will be addressed. The study presents the findings resulting from the analysis of the data provided by the respondents. Amongst the findings of the study there is a view that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have monitoring and evaluation specialists who could ensure that performance is being periodically evaluated, in order to close policy gaps that might be in existence. Non-involvement or partial involvement of communities has the potential to cause stagnation, as people generally lack monitoring skills. Some of the ecommendations include: the skills development of all the stakeholders, especially those with the mandate to deliver on behalf of government, that is, political office bearers, together with the technical support wing. Performance monitoring and evaluation under the proposed recommendations could be enhanced and positive changes could be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Implementation challenges of the performance management policy at the Joe Gqabi District Municipality public hospitals
- Authors: Mbethe, Zakanzima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018498
- Description: Public administration seems to have shifted towards the New Public Management doctrines that emphasize performance management. The healthcare reforms have been a global phenomenon ever since the early 1980s, with the major focus on managerial restructuring, to produce a more responsive and efficient system (Liang and Howard , 2007:393). The South African public sector has gradually introduced a comprehensive performance management system, since the early 80s. In response, the Province of the Eastern Cape began the design and the development of a performance-management policy in early 2000. This policy was later refined and aligned to the National Department of Public Service and Administrations’s performance management policy. The policy was intially implemented in the Province of the Eastern Cape in mid-2003, through a Performance Management and Development System (PMDS). Moderating Committees were established at each level of government, and at the institutional level. The mandate of these Moderating Committees was to ensure the proper implementation of the perfomance-management policy. The purpose of the policy is to provide practical guidelines on the improvement of individual and organisational performance; however, the implementation challenges of this policy have been identified in Joe Gqabi Health District. This study evaluates the implementation challenges of performance-management policy at all the Joe Gqabi District Municipality public hospitals. The main objectives of the research study are, therefore, to : To provide exposition of the provision of the Province of the Eastern Cape performance management policy and regulatory guidelines; To analyse the utilization of performance-management information for determining emunerations, rewarding outstanding performance and for the development of the personnel; To provide a set of recommendations for the policy implementation to improve service delivery in the Joe Gqabi Health District. Both qualitative and quantitave methods were utilised to collect the data for the study. The research questionnaire was distributed to the eleven public hospitals in the Joe Gqabi Health District. The response rate was 52percent and this was considered adequate for scientific analysis and reporting. The research study reached the conclusion that there is generally poor adherence to policy guidelines in the district, in that: Although most hospitals have structured PMDS committees, their meetings are inconsistent, and are generally held only once a year during final assessment. Performance contracts are signed very late, towards the end of the first quarter. Performance-related bonuses are also effected very late, and are considered a demotivating factor by most participants. The support provided by the provincial and district offices for the implementation of the performance-management policy was viewed as being quite inadequate by most of the participants. The majority of the respondents recommended that the policy be replaced by another form of performance management; however, some considered it adequate, but the implementation of the policy requires further attention. The study therefore came to the following recommendations: The Province and the District should provide consistent support to district hospitals for the implementation of the performance-management policy. The provincial offices should authorize performance-related payments timeously, and the district should effect these payments promptly. The co-ordination of the skills-development programme should be decentralized, in order for district hospitals to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in co-ordination. The Accounting Officers of the respective institutions should monitor the implementation of these policy guidelines to ensure compliance. The research findings conclude that provided the above recommendations are implemented, this would improve the implementation of the provincial performance-management policy, and service delivery in public hospitals in the Joe Gqabi District Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mbethe, Zakanzima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018498
- Description: Public administration seems to have shifted towards the New Public Management doctrines that emphasize performance management. The healthcare reforms have been a global phenomenon ever since the early 1980s, with the major focus on managerial restructuring, to produce a more responsive and efficient system (Liang and Howard , 2007:393). The South African public sector has gradually introduced a comprehensive performance management system, since the early 80s. In response, the Province of the Eastern Cape began the design and the development of a performance-management policy in early 2000. This policy was later refined and aligned to the National Department of Public Service and Administrations’s performance management policy. The policy was intially implemented in the Province of the Eastern Cape in mid-2003, through a Performance Management and Development System (PMDS). Moderating Committees were established at each level of government, and at the institutional level. The mandate of these Moderating Committees was to ensure the proper implementation of the perfomance-management policy. The purpose of the policy is to provide practical guidelines on the improvement of individual and organisational performance; however, the implementation challenges of this policy have been identified in Joe Gqabi Health District. This study evaluates the implementation challenges of performance-management policy at all the Joe Gqabi District Municipality public hospitals. The main objectives of the research study are, therefore, to : To provide exposition of the provision of the Province of the Eastern Cape performance management policy and regulatory guidelines; To analyse the utilization of performance-management information for determining emunerations, rewarding outstanding performance and for the development of the personnel; To provide a set of recommendations for the policy implementation to improve service delivery in the Joe Gqabi Health District. Both qualitative and quantitave methods were utilised to collect the data for the study. The research questionnaire was distributed to the eleven public hospitals in the Joe Gqabi Health District. The response rate was 52percent and this was considered adequate for scientific analysis and reporting. The research study reached the conclusion that there is generally poor adherence to policy guidelines in the district, in that: Although most hospitals have structured PMDS committees, their meetings are inconsistent, and are generally held only once a year during final assessment. Performance contracts are signed very late, towards the end of the first quarter. Performance-related bonuses are also effected very late, and are considered a demotivating factor by most participants. The support provided by the provincial and district offices for the implementation of the performance-management policy was viewed as being quite inadequate by most of the participants. The majority of the respondents recommended that the policy be replaced by another form of performance management; however, some considered it adequate, but the implementation of the policy requires further attention. The study therefore came to the following recommendations: The Province and the District should provide consistent support to district hospitals for the implementation of the performance-management policy. The provincial offices should authorize performance-related payments timeously, and the district should effect these payments promptly. The co-ordination of the skills-development programme should be decentralized, in order for district hospitals to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in co-ordination. The Accounting Officers of the respective institutions should monitor the implementation of these policy guidelines to ensure compliance. The research findings conclude that provided the above recommendations are implemented, this would improve the implementation of the provincial performance-management policy, and service delivery in public hospitals in the Joe Gqabi District Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Implementation of a standardised insulin protocol in a tertiary level referral hospital
- Authors: Smith, Charné
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa Insulin -- Patients -- South Africa , Drugs -- Dosage forms Diabetics -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18387 , vital:28632
- Description: In severely ill hospitalised patients with diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2) there is an increase in metabolic rate. Insulin requirements are increased and glycaemic control becomes more difficult to achieve. The insulin sliding-scale is a form of „top up‟ therapy used to supplement the patients existing hypoglycaemic medication. In 2002, research at Livingstone Hospital found that 14 different sliding scales were used in 38 patients (Du Plessis, 2002: 79). In 2006 the nurses and doctors working in the general medical wards at Livingstone Hospital indicated that they were willing to use a standardised insulin sliding scale protocol (Smith, 2006: 56). Thus the aim of this study was to assess whether a standardised insulin protocol can be effectively implemented. The objectives of the study were to: 1) assess insulin usage via insulin sliding scales prior to the implementation of the standardised insulin protocol; 2) implement the standardised insulin protocol; and 3) reassess insulin usage after the implementation of the standardised insulin protocol. As the study involved evaluating the use of insulin via the insulin sliding scale and the implemented insulin protocol, it occurred in four phases. The preliminary phase entailed obtaining ethical approval. The pre-intervention phase included data collection in the form of a nursing questionnaire and the auditing of patient medical records using a data collection tool. The intervention phase involved education sessions on the new insulin protocol for the nursing staff, and the implementation of a standardised insulin protocol, while the post-intervention phase comprised of post-intervention data collection, which included a nursing questionnaire, a prescribers questionnaire and the auditing of patient medical records using a data collection tool. The overall impression obtained from the comparison between the pre- and post-intervention nursing questionnaire was conflicting; in some aspects the educational intervention was successful in others not. Regardless the indication obtained was that the nursing staff require more in-service training on a more regular basis as a lack of knowledge regarding diabetes mellitus as a disease state may negatively affect patient outcomes. The overall response from the nursing staff towards the insulin protocol was positive. The prescribers‟ response to the insulin protocol was conflicted. The number of correct insulin sliding scale doses administered in the pre-intervention and post intervention phase improved by 5.25 percent. The number of incorrect insulin sliding scale doses administered during the pre- and post -intervention phase decreased by 5.25 percent. These results are positive and may be due to fewer sliding scales being prescribed in the post-intervention phase and the implemented insulin protocol. Only three (5.55%; n=54) inpatients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus were placed on the implemented protocol that is, the basal bolus regime, and rarely were dose adjustments to their insulin made rendering the effectives of the protocol undesirable. Only four (7.40%; n=54) inpatients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus were placed on the implemented protocol that is, an intermediate- to long-acting insulin (Protophane®). However all four patients experienced immediate improvements in their fasting blood glucose levels. These results indicated that by adding an intermediate- to long-acting insulin (Protophane®) to the therapy of a patient with Type 2 diabetes mellitus fasting blood glucose levels decrease. This would improve patient outcomes and decrease the risk of related diabetic complications. These limited results may indicate a clinical inertia on the part of the prescribers. Unfortunately overall the educational intervention was not successful and the implementation of the protocol was not successful and did not yield the desired results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Smith, Charné
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa Insulin -- Patients -- South Africa , Drugs -- Dosage forms Diabetics -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18387 , vital:28632
- Description: In severely ill hospitalised patients with diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2) there is an increase in metabolic rate. Insulin requirements are increased and glycaemic control becomes more difficult to achieve. The insulin sliding-scale is a form of „top up‟ therapy used to supplement the patients existing hypoglycaemic medication. In 2002, research at Livingstone Hospital found that 14 different sliding scales were used in 38 patients (Du Plessis, 2002: 79). In 2006 the nurses and doctors working in the general medical wards at Livingstone Hospital indicated that they were willing to use a standardised insulin sliding scale protocol (Smith, 2006: 56). Thus the aim of this study was to assess whether a standardised insulin protocol can be effectively implemented. The objectives of the study were to: 1) assess insulin usage via insulin sliding scales prior to the implementation of the standardised insulin protocol; 2) implement the standardised insulin protocol; and 3) reassess insulin usage after the implementation of the standardised insulin protocol. As the study involved evaluating the use of insulin via the insulin sliding scale and the implemented insulin protocol, it occurred in four phases. The preliminary phase entailed obtaining ethical approval. The pre-intervention phase included data collection in the form of a nursing questionnaire and the auditing of patient medical records using a data collection tool. The intervention phase involved education sessions on the new insulin protocol for the nursing staff, and the implementation of a standardised insulin protocol, while the post-intervention phase comprised of post-intervention data collection, which included a nursing questionnaire, a prescribers questionnaire and the auditing of patient medical records using a data collection tool. The overall impression obtained from the comparison between the pre- and post-intervention nursing questionnaire was conflicting; in some aspects the educational intervention was successful in others not. Regardless the indication obtained was that the nursing staff require more in-service training on a more regular basis as a lack of knowledge regarding diabetes mellitus as a disease state may negatively affect patient outcomes. The overall response from the nursing staff towards the insulin protocol was positive. The prescribers‟ response to the insulin protocol was conflicted. The number of correct insulin sliding scale doses administered in the pre-intervention and post intervention phase improved by 5.25 percent. The number of incorrect insulin sliding scale doses administered during the pre- and post -intervention phase decreased by 5.25 percent. These results are positive and may be due to fewer sliding scales being prescribed in the post-intervention phase and the implemented insulin protocol. Only three (5.55%; n=54) inpatients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus were placed on the implemented protocol that is, the basal bolus regime, and rarely were dose adjustments to their insulin made rendering the effectives of the protocol undesirable. Only four (7.40%; n=54) inpatients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus were placed on the implemented protocol that is, an intermediate- to long-acting insulin (Protophane®). However all four patients experienced immediate improvements in their fasting blood glucose levels. These results indicated that by adding an intermediate- to long-acting insulin (Protophane®) to the therapy of a patient with Type 2 diabetes mellitus fasting blood glucose levels decrease. This would improve patient outcomes and decrease the risk of related diabetic complications. These limited results may indicate a clinical inertia on the part of the prescribers. Unfortunately overall the educational intervention was not successful and the implementation of the protocol was not successful and did not yield the desired results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Implementation of environmental learning in the NSSC biology curriculum component: a case study of Namibia
- Tshiningayamwe, Sirkka Alina Nambashusan
- Authors: Tshiningayamwe, Sirkka Alina Nambashusan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia -- Case studies Environmental education -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia -- Case studies Environmental education -- Evaluation -- Namibia -- Case studies Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia -- Case studies Biology -- Curricula
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1564 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003446
- Description: In the context of ecological crisis and environmental deterioration, teaching about environmental issues and the preservation of the world’s environment has become increasingly important across the globe (Chi-chung Ko & Chi-kin Lee, 2003). Of the various subjects taught in secondary schools, Science is often perceived as one that can make a significant contribution to environmental education. It is in this light that the study has looked at how Grade 11 and 12 Biology teachers in the Namibian context implement Environmental Learning (EL). This study was constituted as a case study of two schools in Windhoek, in the Khomas region. The study investigated the implementation of EL in the Biology curriculum focusing on the constraints and enabling factors influencing the implementation. This study employed qualitative methods, specifically semi-structured interviews, classroom observations and document analysis in its investigation of EL implementation. Purposive sampling was done and piloting of interview and observation schedules was used to refine the schedules. Ethical issues were taken into consideration throughout the study. The key findings from the study are as follows: - Teachers’ knowledge and interest in environmental education influence how teachers facilitate EL; - There is a mismatch between EL theories and practice; - Teaching of EL is mainly informed by the syllabus and not other curriculum documents, - Current assessment policy and practice impact on EL; and - Possibilities exist for improving EL in Namibia’s Biology curriculum. These key findings have been used to make recommendations for the study which are as follows: - Strengthen the subject content and interest of teachers; - There should be a match between EL theories and practice; - Reorient curriculum documents and other learning support materials used for EL; - Change in assessment approaches; and - Translate constraints of EL into enablers. The study concludes by calling for further research into EL pedagogies. This can be used to improve EL implementation in the region where the study was situated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tshiningayamwe, Sirkka Alina Nambashusan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia -- Case studies Environmental education -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia -- Case studies Environmental education -- Evaluation -- Namibia -- Case studies Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia -- Case studies Biology -- Curricula
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1564 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003446
- Description: In the context of ecological crisis and environmental deterioration, teaching about environmental issues and the preservation of the world’s environment has become increasingly important across the globe (Chi-chung Ko & Chi-kin Lee, 2003). Of the various subjects taught in secondary schools, Science is often perceived as one that can make a significant contribution to environmental education. It is in this light that the study has looked at how Grade 11 and 12 Biology teachers in the Namibian context implement Environmental Learning (EL). This study was constituted as a case study of two schools in Windhoek, in the Khomas region. The study investigated the implementation of EL in the Biology curriculum focusing on the constraints and enabling factors influencing the implementation. This study employed qualitative methods, specifically semi-structured interviews, classroom observations and document analysis in its investigation of EL implementation. Purposive sampling was done and piloting of interview and observation schedules was used to refine the schedules. Ethical issues were taken into consideration throughout the study. The key findings from the study are as follows: - Teachers’ knowledge and interest in environmental education influence how teachers facilitate EL; - There is a mismatch between EL theories and practice; - Teaching of EL is mainly informed by the syllabus and not other curriculum documents, - Current assessment policy and practice impact on EL; and - Possibilities exist for improving EL in Namibia’s Biology curriculum. These key findings have been used to make recommendations for the study which are as follows: - Strengthen the subject content and interest of teachers; - There should be a match between EL theories and practice; - Reorient curriculum documents and other learning support materials used for EL; - Change in assessment approaches; and - Translate constraints of EL into enablers. The study concludes by calling for further research into EL pedagogies. This can be used to improve EL implementation in the region where the study was situated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012