Challenges in the implementation of technology learning area in the senior phase in some Mthatha schools
- Authors: Nokwali, Mlandeli Philbert
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/245 , vital:26589
- Description: Technology education is an important factor in every learner’s education. It contributes to the intellectual and practical development of the learners to enable them to cope with the challenges of a technological society. The main purpose of the study was to investigate the extent to which the learning and teaching of technology were implemented in schools in the Mthatha District. The main research question was: What are the challenges for the implementation of technology learning area in the Senior Phase? Research sub questions were: What support does the Department of Education give to educators?; To what extent have the objectives of implementing the technology learning area been achieved?; and, What suggestions do educators have to improve implementation of technology education? There were 20 Junior Secondary Schools involved in the study. There were two groups of samples: (a) the educators’ sample and (b) the learners’ sample. The educators’ sample: The sample size was 20 educators consisting of those who were teaching technology in either all the Senior Phase grades (Grade 7, 8 and 9) or at least in one of the grades in the senior phase in his/her school. On the researcher’s request, the Principal of each school nominated an educator and hence there was one educator in the educators’ sample from each of the 20 schools. The learners’ sample: The sample size was 40 learners consisting of at least two learners from each of the 20 schools. On the researcher’s request each educator in the educators’ sample nominated two learners from the senior phase. The instrument which was made to collect data was a researcher-designed questionnaire. The researcher personally visited each school involved in the study and gave the questionnaires to the two learners and one educator from that particular school to complete them independently within five days. The researcher personally re-visited each school on a day after the agreed-upon 5-day period but only after confirming over the phone that the questionnaires were indeed completed. The data were analyzed manually. The results obtained revealed that the implementation of the technology learning area is challenged by a number of problems. Those which were specifically identified were: lack of resources especially the rural schools; lack of people who are knowledgeable on Outcomes-based education (OBE) or the OBE modes of learning & teaching technology and its assessment methods, ineffectiveness arising out of large and overcrowded classes, challenges originating from or as a consequence of redeployment and the rationalization of educators and the lack of human resource to assist in the implementation of technology. The study showed the need for the provision of supportive service and continuous contact with educators to offer advice and assistance in order to improve the quality of technology teaching and learning in schools. The professional knowledge and skills of subject advisors as well as educators needed to be extended, refreshed and updated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Community perceptions of Cannabis Sativa (dagga) in the Mzintlava location, Ingquza Hill Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Lum, Niba Rosemary
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cannabis sativa -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (Anthropology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/226 , vital:26586
- Description: Nowadays young people and other members of the society often find themselves in many malpractices such as rape, suicide, murder dropping out of school and other harmful activities due to the use of cannabis sativa (dagga) which is on the rise. This study concentrated on the use of cannabis sativa (dagga) in Mzintlava, Ngquza Hill Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Young people are actually the victims of the consequences of the use of dagga. Indications are that parents often ignore their children to use cannabis sativa until they can no longer stop them. Earlier researches on substance use in South Africa have always been descriptive. This resulted in sketchy understanding of factors that predisposed young children to the use and even abuse of dagga and the reasons why parents and the community underestimated the practice until the stage of addiction. Without this understanding, it will be difficult to introduce effective ways of abolishing dagga use among young children and other members of the community. Finding effective measures to prevent substance use has been difficult. Research is therefore needed in order to understand the basis of the problem. This study attempts to examine factors that make parents and the communities to leave children to taking substances until the stage where they can longer stop them. It will also lead to establishing factors that put young children or teenagers particularly at risk to the use of dagga.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Developing teaching and learning skills at a Higher education institution: a collaborative action research study
- Authors: Mokhele, Paul Rampaola
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Learning -- Study and teaching (Tertiary) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D Ed
- Identifier: vital:18456 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007960
- Description: The thesis which was originally undertaken to improve my teaching skills and determine ways of allowing me space to live my academic values also turned out to become the enquiry to investigate students’ learning and study skills. Students and I collaborated in a year-long self-study action research where we were trying different teaching-learning strategies in order to improve our practice(s). Throughout the study I kept a reflective journal and students also reflected in a portfolio of learning their impressions about the new teaching-learning strategies. In addition to these data gathering methods data from students were gathered using chats, observation, and open-ended questionnaire. Data was analysed using a narrative method, reflexivity principle, and grounded theory. There are two major steps I followed in this study which are aimed at improving students’ basic study and learning skills, and my teaching skills. The first relates to action research into student learning at the school of Mathematics Science and Technology (MSTE) at a rural university. The study reveals that: Students have their own different and unique styles of learning, implementing various learning styles afford students an opportunity to find a style that matches their own. The second action step relates to my own self-study research trying different teaching methods based on my academic and personal values. Here, the study reveals that: The best teaching-learning practice is the one developed and agreed upon between the teacher educator and his or her students. These ‘action’ steps were not mutually exclusive – they were conducted in parallel. After the description of developing student learning skills at undergraduate level my reflections on the study followed in relation to theories and methods of teaching-learning and further revealed that what works with one group of students will not necessarily work with another group. The best teacher educator is constantly seeking ways of improving the learning experience of his or her students. The recommendations that teacher educators should become self reflective practitioners and improve their professions using self-study collaborative approach will benefit other teacher educators who are keen to study and improve their practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Educators ‘Perceptions of The Implementation of The National Curriculum Statement in Mt Fletcher District of The Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Sikhunyana, Philiswa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/2957 , vital:43114
- Description: The National Department of Education has undergone drastically changes from 1994. This study is about teacher‘s perceptions of the implementation of NCS. This study seeks to reveal the perception, feelings and the beliefs of teachers towards the implementation of the New Curriculum Statement in Mount Fletcher District of Eastern Cape Province. A mixed mode approach was conducted in this study in a form of quantitative and qualitative methods. Stratified random sampling (schools) and purposive sampling was used to draw the participants (teachers) from different High schools in Mt Fletcher. Data was analyzed following this pattern of organizing, transcribing, coding, establishing themes or categories, structuring, findings which paved way for the recommendations of this study and conclusion. The findings of this study reveals that teachers are just shooting in the dark in the sense that few teachers are implementing NCS successfully using their own methods and strategies of teaching and learning with a very limited clear understanding of the policy documents related to NCS principles while most schools and teachers are implementing through trial and error method, policy documents are just ―blue print to them as they received no clarity of them. And above all, teachers are lamenting on systematic, pedagogical and societal challenges that hindering the process of thorough implementation of NCS. Based on the findings the researcher recommends that the National Department of Education must pay attention for the Systemic challenges e.g. thorough training of teachers on methods of teaching and learning so that they can be able to understand the policies and methods of teaching and learning. She also recommends that whenever the NDoE is introducing new reforms on education, advocacy and awareness must reach the level of implementers not the understanding of the delegates. The NDoE again must pay attention to overcrowded classrooms and classes that are not conducive for teaching and learning (poor infrastructure), lack of basic and appropriate learning materials; Societal challenges e.g. Lack of parental support and Pedagogical challenges e.g. inappropriate teaching methods as well as learning and teacher support material, unqualified and under-qualified teachers, inappropriate assessment procedures, lack of support for teachers. Key words: National Curriculum statement; Teachers; Department of Education; Implementation and Perception. , Thesis (MMED) -- Faculty of Educational Sciences, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Experiences and survival strategies of informal traders in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Seh, Vera Mantoh Ngwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Informal traders -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:18447 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007299
- Description: This study investigated the experiences and survival strategies of informal traders in Mthatha, paying more attention to women. This has included their daily activities to sustain themselves and improve business performance. It has however elaborated on the reasons why people engage themselves in informal trade. Literature review shows that the reasons why people are involved in this form of trade are mainly due to unemployment, lack of education and lack of knowledge. The significance of this form of trade to the economy cannot be underestimated. Emphasis was laid on the challenges encountered by these traders. Such challenges include lack of access to financial facilities such as credit and savings; lack of shelter; harsh weather conditions and harassment and confiscation of their goods by Metro Police. The methodology of this study is primarily based on both quantitative and qualitative methods of research. Several data collection instruments were used. These included questionnaires, participant observation, in-depth interview and photography. Fifty questionnaires were administered to the informal traders and an interview schedule was used to gather information from members of the community and municipality. Description of study site, ethical consideration, limitations and delimitation has equally been presented. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS and manually. The results revealed that informal trading is a survival strategy to a large population of the people in Mthatha and the only source of income. Most of them are breadwinners who support a large number of dependents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Exploring learning and teaching support given by principals to Grade R teachers in Mqanduli Area in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Pantshwa, Zimasa Prudence
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Teaching and Learning support -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18438 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007197
- Description: The study was conducted in the Mthatha District, Mqanduli area, and it sought to enquire about the role of junior secondary school principals in supporting Grade R teachers in order to make teaching and learning in the Grade R classes effective. The researcher has noticed with concern the poor conditions of Grade R classes in the schools and felt a need for proper support. She felt the principal could champion the concept of support better, in his capacity as a manager in the school. Studies in Early Childhood Development have been done, and they pertained to all aspects of child development, parental support etc., but studies that view support from a managerial perspective in Mthatha District are scarce. Under quantitative research design, a survey research method was employed to collect a large portion of the data. A questionnaire consisting of closed and open ended questions was used in order to collect data from the Grade R teachers. Open ended questions were used in order to get a broader view and perceptions. Comprehensive sampling was used in this study because the whole population fell into the sample. All ethical considerations were observes and after receipt of permission to conduct research in the schools, a questionnaire was distributed personally to all the schools in the sample. Data was analyzed by means of the SPSS. Some of the findings identified in the study pertained to: the need for material support including good infrastructure, poor communication between principal and Grade R teacher, scarce meetings specifically for Grade R. The individual findings, together with the implications were discussed in relation to the research questions. The researcher recommended that technical support should be attended to and the principal must communicate frequently with the Grade R teacher. Financial limitations and negative attitudes from some principals were the major limitations the researcher encountered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors causing the decline in English proficiency among learners based on a perception of teachers in the junior secondary schools of the Qumbu Education District
- Authors: Makena, Bulelwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: English proficiency -- Learners-- Teachers opinion -- Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18435 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007178
- Description: The purpose of this study was to find out whether factors such as the learners’ learning styles, their cultural backgrounds, instructional approaches and strategies used by teachers and the lack of exposure to relevant resources had an influence on the declining English proficiency among learners. The researcher is currently an English teacher in one of the schools in the Qumbu Education District. The researcher expressed concern about the learners’ declining performance in aspects of English language like reading, writing and speaking. The idea of carrying out this study became necessary as English is a compulsory first additional language for most of the schools. Most of the subjects offered in South African schools are taught in English; moreover, English is an internationally-recognized medium of communication. One therefore, has to master the use of English to a certain extent so as to be a successful scholar. The sample consisted of 20 English senior phase teachers who were randomly selected from 13 schools in various circuits around the Qumbu Education District. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires which focused specifically on the learners’ learning styles, their cultural backgrounds, instructional approaches and strategies used by teachers, and also the lack of exposure to relevant literature. These questionnaires were administered by the researcher in person. The data were analyzed and interpreted statistically and also presented through tables and discussions. The findings of this study revealed that the geographical locations of the selected schools for the research study, limited exposure to English-related resources, workload of English teachers, teaching and learning approaches, and knowledge acquisition strategies employed by teachers and learners contribute to the decline in English proficiency among the learners. If these could be attended to effectively, English proficiency could improve among learners. In conclusion, recommendations have been made both for action and possible further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors contributing to scarcity of women principals in Mqanduli junior secondary schools in the Mthatha District in the Eastern Cape Province Republic of South Africa
- Authors: Lolwana, Tembeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women principals -- Dissertations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/201 , vital:26579
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the factors contributing to scarcity of women principals in junior secondary schools of Mqanduli in Mthatha Education District in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This region is predominantly rural. The study focused on Secondary school principals. The study used a quantitative research design to elicit data from the respondents. Data were collected from 72 participants through the use of a questionnaire. 70 questionnaires were returned and the data were processed. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used in the analysis of the data. This study had covered the aspects of culture which prevailed in the education set up in the past and are still prevailing. The findings of the study revealed several factors contributing to the scarcity of women principals in Mqanduli District. These were the findings: the majority of the participants agreed that culture is a stumbling block to the appointment of women principals. Cultural aspects still influence the public opinion on the capability of women to lead. Selection procedures that are discrimatory on gender grounds prevent women from being appointed as principals. Poor implementation of affirmative action policies during selection of principals leads to exclusion of women from holding principals posts. Lack of support from the subordinates prevents women from holding principal posts Although discrimination and prejudice with respect to women ability to lead and manage is worldwide it is evident that the bill of human rights is beginning to impact positively on the stereotypes. Finally, recommendations and suggestions were made stating that the Department of Education needs to provide the necessary workshops on gender equity policies to upgrade SGBs with skills, knowledge and proper understanding of such policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors contributing to senior secondary school learners' poor performance in science subjects in the Mount Frere Education District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Dandala, Siyolo Sebastian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poor performance -- Science
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18462 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1008256
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors contributing to senior secondary school learners’ poor performance in science subjects in the Mount Frere Education District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The literature analyses critically the existing knowledge based on factors contributing to poor performance of learners in science subjects and those factors that impact on learners’ positive attitudes towards science subjects. The study also identified literature on the following: motivational levels of science learners, teaching and learning strategies used in teaching science subjects, medium of instruction in the teaching and learning of science subjects, parental involvement in children’s learning, effects of lack of instructional materials on learner performance and learners’ attitudes towards science subjects. The study also examined the views of learners, teachers, Head of Department of sciences, parents and principals on factors contributing to poor performance of senior secondary school learners inscience subjects. The population for the study comprised of all principals, science teachers, science Head of Department, parents and science learners of the twenty six (26) senior secondary schools in the Mount Frere Education District. The principals, science teachers, science Head of Departments, parents of science learners and science learners in seven (7) senior secondary schools that offered science subjects were used as a sample in this study. The study employed the mixed method of quantitative and qualitative approaches. The research designs used were the survey and the case study. The instruments used were the questionnaires in which closed-ended questions were used to secure information and the interviews where open ended questions were used to collect data. The questionnaire as an instrument got tested in the pilot study to investigate the validity and reliability and also to identify possible deficiencies so as to rectify them. The responses were analyzed and presented in percentages using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) in the quantitative approach method of data analysis and in the qualitative data analysis process the researcher read through the data and became familiar with it and then identified the main themes and the next step was to examine the data in-depth and to provide detail descriptions of the participants’ words. The researcher also categorised and coded the data and then grouped them into themes and finally, interpreted the organised data into conclusion. The findings revealed that there was a lack of parental involvement, shortage of instructional materials, shortage of school laboratories, shortage of qualified science teachers and the learners’ negative attitudes towards science subjects. Recommendations were made concerning the above findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors influencing women teachers underrepresentation in principalship positions of Dutywa senior secondary schools in Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mokotho, Themba
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women principals -- Dissertations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/211 , vital:26585
- Description: First of all, South Africa‟s struggle against racial discrimination has received international exposure but the focus now is on gender disenfranchisement which is, however, eclipsed by the struggle for racial redress. In the current climate of redress, post Apartheid South Africa has pledged an unequivocal commitment to the promotion of a unitary, non-sexist, non-racist South Africa in all facets of life. Several enabling national policies have been legislated to promote equity and access to those previously excluded by virtue of race and gender, particularly in assuming leadership roles in key public domains. The catalyst for this study is encapsulated from historical trajectories of women lives, in apparent intractable patriarchal higher echelons, monolithic patriarchal South African school organizations and visible paucity of women in principalship positions of Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) in Dutywa Education District. Significantly, this study actually refers to causality factors of gender imbalance in work places as a provocative factor leading to constant marginalization of women in leadership positions irrespective of sound and clear government policies. This is a principal subject of concern that has grounded this present researcher to undertake this study. Views and ideas applicable in addressing this phenomenon were invited from women teachers of Dutywa Education District and most crucially about the scarcity of women teachers in principalship positions of this District. Questionnaires were distributed to research sites of three sub-districts of concern. The population had been sampled from women teachers of Dutywa Education District, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Quantitative results show that organisational factors, culture, women‟s personalities and colonial legacies are obstacles challenging the effectiveness of females in school administration. Specifically, teachers' negative attitudes towards being a female, particularly female principal in schools are cited as the major impediments to women principals of high schools. The study implores governments to continue appointing more women to school leadership positions despite the identified challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors that contribute to teachers' job satisfaction/dissatisfaction as perceived by teachers in Libode District: A case study of two schools
- Authors: Mvo, Nelisa Enid
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Teachers -- Job satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18442 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007266
- Description: The study investigates factors that contribute to job satisfaction/dissatisfaction in a case study of two Public Senior Secondary Schools as perceived by teachers of Libode District in the Eastern Cape. The point of departure of the study is the fact that the researcher has observed high rate of resignations and transfers of teachers. The study was conducted through a case study design. A total of thirty-five sample subjects from both schools were selected using purposive methods. The instruments used to collect the data were the questionnaires and interviews. The targeted population was teachers teaching in both schools at the area of the research site. Pilot study was done. Ethical issues were taken into consideration. The data collected was, analyzed and interpreted within a specified time frame. The findings were based on the data collected; thereafter the conclusions and recommendations were drawn based on the findings of both the quantitative and qualitative methods. The main findings of the study indicated clearly that poor working conditions, low salaries and ill discipline of learners contribute to job dissatisfaction. Findings were discussed in the context of the main and sub research questions and recommendations were made. The study will help the Department of Education to identify teachers' concern regarding job satisfaction/dissatisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
FACTORS WHICH INFLUENCE ENGLISH LANGUAGE PASS RATE AT MATRIC LEVEL IN THE ENGCOBO DISTRICT OF THE EASTERN CAPE OF SOUTH AFRICA
- Authors: SONGWAXA NOKUTHULA PATIENCE
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: ENGLISH LANGUAGE, PASS RATE, MATRIC LEVEL
- Language: English
- Type: Masters, M.Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/2385 , vital:41454
- Description: This study investigates the management of English teaching to improve matriculation pass-rate in selected schools in the Engcobo District of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The study has been circuits of the Engcobo district. Questionnaires were administered over a group of matriculants, English second language teachers and 8 school principals with a variety of questions and interviews on the causes of this failure problem. Based on the study it has been reared through collect data that some teachers have not been workshopped in the current curriculum (NCS) and this somehow affects the learners. Learners from rural areas have a problem in understanding English language. Lack of educational facilities like libraries also have a negative impact in learner’s progress. Learners who came from Junior Secondary Schools to High schools are not ready and this gives High School teachers a big task to mould them to be ready for matric. It is recommended that parental involvement is vital in their children’s education so as to see their progress and to develop the teacher-parent locomotives learners need to be engaged in Educational activities like debates, public speaking, conducting so as to improve their communication skills. Educators should give more writing and reading exercises to learners so as to minimize the number of learners who are unable to write in Matric.
- Full Text:
Factors which Influence English Language Pass Rate at Matric Level in the Engcobo District of The Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Songwaxa, Nokuthula Patience
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/3517 , vital:43622
- Description: This study investigates the management of English teaching to improve matriculation pass-rate in selected schools in the Engcobo District of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The study has been circuits of the Engcobo district. Questionnaires were administered over a group of matriculants, English second language teachers and 8 school principals with a variety of questions and interviews on the causes of this failure problem. Based on the study it has been reared through collect data that some teachers have not been workshopped in the current curriculum (NCS) and this somehow affects the learners. Learners from rural areas have a problem in understanding English language. Lack of educational facilities like libraries also have a negative impact in learner’s progress. Learners who came from Junior Secondary Schools to High schools are not ready and this gives High School teachers a big task to mould them to be ready for matric. It is recommended that parental involvement is vital in their children’s education so as to see their progress and to develop the teacher-parent locomotives learners need to be engaged in Educational activities like debates, public speaking, conducting so as to improve their communication skills. Educators should give more writing and reading exercises to learners so as to minimize the number of learners who are unable to write in Matric. , Thesis (MMED) -- Faculty of Educational Sciences, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Functional changes of the vasculature in HIV/AIDS patients on Haart and Haart Naïve HIV participants
- Authors: Awotedu, Kofoworola Olajire
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cardiovascular system -- Diseases HIV infections -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/185 , vital:21366
- Description: The present study sought to explore the functional changes that occur in the vasculature of HIV positive participants of African origin in Mthatha district of South africa which might lead to increased risk in their cardiovascular system. Available literature shows that arterial stiffness plays an important role in cardiovascular events such as stroke, vasculitis and myocardial infarction. Measurement of (aortic pulse wave velocity; PWV) provides some of the strongest evidence concerning the prognostic significance of large artery stiffening. This study was aimed at investigating the relationship between anthropometry, age, E-Selectin level, cytokine levels, haemodynamic variables, blood counts and blood lipid profile with pulse wave velocity. Some traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as alcohol, and smoking were also taken into account. This was a cross-sectional study comprising of 169 participants (62 males and 107 females). 63 were HIV negative (group A), 54 HIV positive on treatment (group B), and 52 were HIV positive not on treatment (group C). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed using the Sphygmocor Vx. Statistically, ANOVA was used for variables with normal distribution and non parametric tests were used for variables with skewed distribution. Notable significant differences were seen in the means of the following variables across all the 3 groups. Conclusion: This study showed that HIV infected patients with or without antiretroviral therapy have increase arterial stiffness which is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The sphygmocor is an accurate, non invassive and useful tool in the evaluation of arterial stiffness and its use in clinical practice should be encouraged. PWV and the augmentation index (AIx) are the two major non- iv invasive methods of assessing arterial stiffness. Life style modification should be incorporated into the management of HIV patients so as the continuous monitoring of their haematological and lipid profile.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Implementation of the integrated quality management system (IQMS) in selected schools in the Libode District of the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mbangata, Luvuyo Stanley
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Integrated quality management system -- Schools
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18429 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007143
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS) is implemented in schools in the Libode education district. The study focused on the existence of IQMS documents as evidence or proof that IQMS is being implemented. In addition, the study looked at the existence and functionality of structures and processes for the implementation of IQMS in the selected schools. Lastly, the study focused on the deliverables and outcomes arising out of the implementation of IQMS in schools. The pragmatic paradigm and the case study design were used to frame and focus the research. Data was obtained from sixty (60) educators who were surveyed, principals of the three (3) selected schools, and three (3) Education District Officials (EDOs) selected on purpose for interviews. Data thus obtained was analysed both quantitatively using descriptive statistics, and qualitatively through extraction of themes. The study draws conclusions on findings based on the attendance of IQMS workshops meant to capacitate teachers on the conceptualisation and practice of IQMS; the availability and quality of IQMS workshops; understanding of IQMS processes by teachers and the officials; IQMS evaluation processes underwent by teachers; alignment between School Improvement Plans and the District Improvement Plan, and the connection between individual growth and school improvement; the constitution and functioning of IQMS structures; and the form and content of IQMS deliverables and outcomes. This research makes recommendations for IQMS implementation and further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Medicinal properties of some plants used for the treatment of skin disorders in the O. R. Tambo and Amathole Municipalities of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mahachi, Josia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- Skin -- Diseases -- Treatment , South Africa -- Eastern Cape Province
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18487 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/101
- Description: The use of medicinal plants for treatment of skin infections and improvement of skin tone was assessed. The study covered Amathole and OR Tambo municipalities of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study sought to identify and document some medicinal plants which are used by the indigenous people on the skin, evaluate some biological properties which attribute to their use for therapeutic use. This report provides ethnobotanical data on some plant which were identified. Six medicinal plants (Kniphofia drepanophylla, Gnidia capitata, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, Syzgium cordatum, Macaranga capensis and Protorhus longifolia) which were implicated for treatment of skin diseases were screened for their antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Guided questionnaires were used to interview and gather ethnobotanical information from the traditional healers. Members of the communities which were indicated to be knowledgeable on use of medicinal plants in the areas were visited and interviewed. The results revealed that a total of 45 plant species distributed in 41 Genera belonging to 28 Families are used for treatment of skin infections and improvement of skin texture. The plant medicines were reported to be used as remedies against common skin problem such as wounds, pimples, acnes and itches. Some were reported to have anti-inflammatory effect on the skin while other were reported to oil dry skin and prevent skin dryness and dry eczematous conditions. Others like Cassipourea flanaganii, and Spirostachys africana were commonly used to enlighten skin and protect skin from ultra-violet radiation. The most common mode of preparation of these medicinal plants was pastes or decoctions. Sometimes crushed plant materials were put in bathing water or boiled and steamed on affected parts. It was reported that mixing pastes with oil, animal fat and milk improve medicinal properties. Water, methanol and acetone extracts of K. drepanophylla, G. capitata, H. hemerocallidea, S. cordatum, M. capensis and P. longifolia were screened against five strains of Gram negative bacteria. The results revealed that water extracts from five plant species inhibited two or more strains of bacteria with the most common minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging between 5,0 to 10,0 mg/ml with the exception of aqueous extracts of K. drepanophylla which failed to inhibit all strains of bacteria. The screening of methanol extract of these plants for antioxidant and free radical activity revealed a significant activity with 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical (DPPH). The extracts of P. longifolia, G. capitata, M. capensis, S. cordutum and H. hemerocallidea showed significantly higher free radical scavenging activity with IC50 of ranging from about 11.0 to 41.2 μg/ ml while the IC50 value for K. drepanophylla could not be determined at 100 μg/ ml. Generally the study showed that medicinal plants still play a very important role in the health care delivery system, especially in the O R Tambo and Amathole municipalities of the Eastern Cape. Botanical medicine remains pivotal in the treatment of skin ailments and improvement of the skin tone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Phytomedical Studies of Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used for The Treatment of Chest and Cough Related Diseases in The Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ndamane, Yolanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Masters
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/2814 , vital:42954
- Description: GENERAL ABSTRACT Herbal plants play a fundamental role in the treatment of coughing and chest related diseases particularly in remote areas of Eastern Cape where health care facilities are sparsely located. The phytomedical studies of plants implicated in the treatment of coughing and chest related diseases in the OR Tambo District Municipality,Eastern Cape was investigated. This study was aimed at documenting the commonly used plants and validates their efficacy against different organisms which are notorious for causing coughing and chest related diseases. The methods employed for the present study include interviews with traditional healers, herbalist and knowledgeable rural dwellers that provided ethnobotanical information and identified 17 plants used for the treatment of coughing and chest related diseases in the study area. Of these the three medicinal plants that were reported to be most widely and frequently used by the local people as remedies for coughing and chest related diseases were Tetradenia riparia, Plectranthus laxiflarus and Eucalyptus renans. T. riparia was selected for further study based on its frequency of citation during the interviewees. Hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, dichloromethane and Aqueous extracts of Tetradenia riparia were screened against ten bacterial species. The dichloromethane extract was the only extract that did not show any activity against bacterial strains. All other four extracts exhibited various degrees of activity with the ethyl acetate extract showing the highest activity against the bacterial species used during the antibacterial assays. Bioactivity-guided fractionation of the leaves of Tetradenia riparia yielded one pure compound. The antimicrobial investigation of the isolated compound showed inhibitory activity against all tested microorganisms. It is noteworthy that the isolated compound showed a significantly higher inhibitory activity than the actual crude extract, this is suggestive of the powerful ability of the compound in working independently.The present study has lend scientific credence to the folkloric use of T.riparia in the management of cough on chest related disorders.
- Full Text:
Phytomedicinal Studies Of Medicinal Plants Used For The Treatment Of Gastro-Intestinal Disorders (Diarrhoea And Stomach Ache), In The Three Districts Of The Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Babalwa N Mbolekwa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Masters
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/2862 , vital:42968
- Description: GENERAL ABSTRACT The use of plants for medicinal purposes has involved many plants exhibiting healing powers for many diverse illnesses and circumstances and one of those being diarrhoea. In different areas of the OR Tambo, Ukhahlamba and Alfred Nzo District Municipalities, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa it has been long-established that native plants are the main components of traditional health care systems. The study aimed at identifying and documenting plants frequently used for the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders (diarrhoea and stomach ache), evaluating their efficacy and isolation of active compounds in the crude extracts. Ethnobotanical information of the commonly used plants was collected and documented through the use of questionnaires with traditional healers, herbalists and community members. In the study area, the ethnobotanical data revealed that 51 plant species belonging to 36 families were used in treating diarrhoea and stomach ache. According to the ethnobotanical information, Acacia mearnsii (idywabasi) was the most frequently used plant for treating diarrhoea and was selected for further studies because of its frequent use in most sites within the study area. Four extracts (hexane, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane and methanol) from the bark of Acacia mearnsii were screened against five Gram-positive bacteria strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus kristinae and Streptococcus faecalis.) and five Gram-negative bacteria strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella flexneri, Klebsiella pneumonia and Serratia marcescens). The antibacterial activities were determined by minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and bio-autographic methods. The extracts showed various degrees of activity. Ethyl acetate extract showed higher activity against bacterial species used during the antibacterial assay and was further investigated for isolation of active compounds. Bio-autography results showed one compound separated on the TLC with activity against the test organisms Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus cereus. In the future, this study may serve as a foundation for choosing the common, active medicinal plants to use in traditional medicine practices.
- Full Text:
Problems encountered by educators in the implementation of integrated quality management system (IQMS) in selected schools in the Butterworth Education District
- Authors: Memani, Theorine Nontando
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Integrated quality management system -- Schools
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18449 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007304
- Description: The study sought to investigate problems encountered by educators in the implementation of IQMS in selected schools in the Butterworth Education District. The study emerged out of an agreement reached by the Department of Education, Education Labour Relation Council, unions and stakeholders (ELRC, 2003) that Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS) be a developmental programme for quality performance in teaching and learning in public schools. The programme was based on the merging of three programmes, namely the Developmental Appraisal System (DAS), Performance Management System (PMS) and Whole School Evaluation (WSE) which were integrated in the implementation of IQMS (Resolution No.8 of 2003).The first three programmes, DAS, PMS and WSE, were less effective and had some flaws that caused implementers (educators) not to accept them as performance developmental programmes as they were punitive and judgmental. The researcher was interested in investigating those problems encountered by the educators in the implementation of IQMS. The study employed a qualitative research methodology with a qualitative survey design. Structured interviews were used to collect data. Five (5) schools out of three hundred and twenty five schools (325) in the Butterworth Education District were conveniently selected. From each school a sample of five (5) educators was purposively selected according to their duty lines on the IQMS structures, i.e. principal, school coordinator and three educators, for the purpose of getting relevant information from each level. Some of the main findings of the study were: the duration of the training was too short; unclear roles and responsibilities of role-players resulted in non-implementation of the programme; attachment of incentive to the programme made educators to focus on the incentives rather than on the programme and the heavy workload of educators hindered the implementation of IQMS. The researcher recommended that administrators/clerks be employed as a matter of urgency to all schools in order to lessen the educators’ workload especially the principals, for the benefit of accomplishing the objectives of IQMS programmes. Re-training was absolutely a necessity. Delinking of incentives to the development programme was a crucial issue. The researcher also recommended that the IQMS Departmental Officials should monitor the implementation of the programme timeuosly so as to tackle the problems in their premature stages. The improvement of working conditions in schools is essential. Key words: quality performance; quality management; quality performance measurement and quality implementation of IQMS programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Stable isotopes dynamics of macrophytes along Umtata River in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Mzamo, Sanele Caleb
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Stable isotopes -- Macrophytes , South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18485 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007205
- Description: The decline of freshwater ecosystems, generally result from land use activities in the river catchment and is of great concern worldwide. This study was conducted along Umtata River in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa between May 2010 and April 2011. The study was aimed at identifying macrophytes families (to species level) and determining the stable isotope signatures (C:N ratios, δ13C and δ15N) and to relate their isotopic signatures to the land use activities along the river catchment. Analysis of variance was performed to test the effect of sites and sampling period on the C:N ratios, δ13C and δ15N signatures. There were 16 macrophyte families represented by 26 species recorded along the river. There was only a significant difference in sites and sampling period in δ15N (p< 0.05). The highest C:N ratios value (30.75±9.65‰) was recorded in the upper reaches while the lowest value (6.10±2.35‰) occurred in the lower reaches. The δ13C values varied throughout the length of the river with highest values (-19.63±5.44‰) obtained in the middle reaches. Spatial variation was evident in δ15N throughout the length of the river and showed increase from the upper reaches to middle reaches and decreased towards lower reaches. The δ15N ranged from 3.92±2.43‰ in the upper reaches to 10.02±4.56‰ in the middle reaches. Temporal variation in δ15N was also evident throughout the sampling period with highest peak in May (9.77± 4.49‰) and lowest in February (0.50±2.49‰) respectively. The highest values of isotope signatures at spatial level demonstrated the true reflection of urban development, sewage discharge and agricultural activities taking place along the river system. Continued monitoring is recommended that may ultimately come up with a better management options for the communities living within the study area, and also to better enhanced land utilization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013