Exploitation of non-living marine resources within national jurisdiction in East Africa
- Authors: Ntola, Yamkela Siqhamo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic zones (Law of the sea) Territorial waters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10253 , vital:26646
- Description: This dissertation involves an analysis and discussion of the legal regime governing the exploitation of non-living marine resources within national jurisdiction in East Africa. This is in light of the relatively recent offshore oil and gas discoveries off the coasts of Mozambique and Tanzania which have resulted in offshore exploration activities along the Western Indian Ocean (including the Red Sea) in pursuit of these hydrocarbons. Before delving into legal analysis and discussion, the dissertation departs by providing background on the 1982 United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (LOSC)2 which is the international legal regime governing maritime spaces and the contributions made by, inter alia, East African coastal States to bring it about. From here, the dissertation ventures into an analysis and discussion of the legal zones claimed by East African coastal States within which exploitation activities may occur. This part of the discussion involves, among other things, an in depth analysis of the practices of East African coastal States as far as establishing maritime zones in terms of international law. The dissertation then proceeds to discuss which East African coastal States have delimited their maritime zones where they overlap with neighbouring States with adjacent and/or opposite coasts. The discussion highlights which States, in terms of international law, have clearly defined the ambit of their maritime jurisdiction by establishing a delimitation boundary where claims to maritime zones overlapped. This part of the dissertation also discusses which States have not delimited their overlapping maritime zones and the reasons for the lack of delimitation. Following this, the dissertation moves on to discuss the LOSC provisions applicable to exploiting non-living resources, and analyse whether the laws of East African coastal States that pertain to exploiting these resources adequately give effect to LOSC. Finally, in light of the above analysis and discussions, the dissertation moves on to establish if whether or not the legal infrastructure of East African coastal States is adequate for exploiting non-living resources within their national jurisdiction. Generally, the findings reflect favourably on the legal framework of East African coastal States. However, the pressing issue is the practices of some States in respect of claiming certain maritime zones and where necessary, not delimiting these zones. This results in uncertainty as to the maritime jurisdiction of a coastal State, especially with resources such as oil and gas which may straddle across boundaries. Moreover, it creates conflict and as such, threatens peace and security in the region as well as stunt economic and socio-economic development. As such, this dissertation, on the one hand, reflects the advancement of East African coastal States from contributing towards the adoption and coming into effect of LOSC, as well as giving effect to it domestically as far as exploiting non-living resources within national jurisdiction is concerned. On the other hand, it highlights the work that lays ahead for East African coastal States in order for them to fully enjoy their right.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ntola, Yamkela Siqhamo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic zones (Law of the sea) Territorial waters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10253 , vital:26646
- Description: This dissertation involves an analysis and discussion of the legal regime governing the exploitation of non-living marine resources within national jurisdiction in East Africa. This is in light of the relatively recent offshore oil and gas discoveries off the coasts of Mozambique and Tanzania which have resulted in offshore exploration activities along the Western Indian Ocean (including the Red Sea) in pursuit of these hydrocarbons. Before delving into legal analysis and discussion, the dissertation departs by providing background on the 1982 United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (LOSC)2 which is the international legal regime governing maritime spaces and the contributions made by, inter alia, East African coastal States to bring it about. From here, the dissertation ventures into an analysis and discussion of the legal zones claimed by East African coastal States within which exploitation activities may occur. This part of the discussion involves, among other things, an in depth analysis of the practices of East African coastal States as far as establishing maritime zones in terms of international law. The dissertation then proceeds to discuss which East African coastal States have delimited their maritime zones where they overlap with neighbouring States with adjacent and/or opposite coasts. The discussion highlights which States, in terms of international law, have clearly defined the ambit of their maritime jurisdiction by establishing a delimitation boundary where claims to maritime zones overlapped. This part of the dissertation also discusses which States have not delimited their overlapping maritime zones and the reasons for the lack of delimitation. Following this, the dissertation moves on to discuss the LOSC provisions applicable to exploiting non-living resources, and analyse whether the laws of East African coastal States that pertain to exploiting these resources adequately give effect to LOSC. Finally, in light of the above analysis and discussions, the dissertation moves on to establish if whether or not the legal infrastructure of East African coastal States is adequate for exploiting non-living resources within their national jurisdiction. Generally, the findings reflect favourably on the legal framework of East African coastal States. However, the pressing issue is the practices of some States in respect of claiming certain maritime zones and where necessary, not delimiting these zones. This results in uncertainty as to the maritime jurisdiction of a coastal State, especially with resources such as oil and gas which may straddle across boundaries. Moreover, it creates conflict and as such, threatens peace and security in the region as well as stunt economic and socio-economic development. As such, this dissertation, on the one hand, reflects the advancement of East African coastal States from contributing towards the adoption and coming into effect of LOSC, as well as giving effect to it domestically as far as exploiting non-living resources within national jurisdiction is concerned. On the other hand, it highlights the work that lays ahead for East African coastal States in order for them to fully enjoy their right.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploration status for oxide and sulphide zinc ores at Skorpion Zinc Mine, Namibia
- Authors: Sitoka, Stefanus
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Scorpion Zinc Mine (Namibia) , Zinc ores , Oxide minerals , Sulfide minerals , Zinc mines and mining -- Namibia , Prospecting -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018204
- Description: The thesis is inspired by recent interests in oxide zinc ores caused by new developments in the technology of hydrometallurgy. The improved techniques turned the non-sulphide zinc ores in to attractive exploration targets due to a number of advantages such as low metal recovery costs and favorable environmental aspects such as the obvious absence of sulfur (Large, 2001). Historically extraction of zinc metal from oxide ores was not possible until recently. The metallurgical complexity resulted in a lack of interest and hence some economic oxide zinc ores might have been missed by conventional exploration techniques. The study presents a review of exploration status at Skorpion mine based on different exploration techniques and their application to sulphide and oxide zinc ore exploration. The challenge facing the mineral exploration industry today is the inability to detect mineral deposits under cover. Therefore a key to successful exploration program lies in the selection of the right exploration technique. Important parameters that should be highlighted in the exploration methodology are the geological situation of an area, equipment applicability and effectiveness, survey limitation, equipment mobilization and the safety aspects involved. The aim of this thesis is to provide a general guideline for sulphide and non-sulphide zinc ore exploration on the Skorpion area and other similar geological environments. Geochemical surveys appears to be more complimentary in exploration of non-sulphide zinc exploration. Although geochemical techniques are preferred, it is equally important to choose the right soil horizon. Furthermore, sample media may mean the difference between success and failure in geochemical exploration of non-sulphide zinc mineralization, due to high mobility of zinc in the surficial environment. On cost comparison, surface geochemical surveys programs are more cost effective except for litho-geochemical sampling which are commonly carried out through subsurface drilling. Geophysical techniques have limited application in exploration of non-sulphide zinc mineralization due to a lack of major physical properties (e.g., magnetic and electrical properties) in non-sulphides unlike their sulphide counterparts. However geophysical methods are commendable in delineating massive and disseminated sulphides mainly if they are associated with major Fe minerals (pyrrhotite or magnetite). In addition, geophysical techniques may be effective in mapping of subsurface primary and secondary structures such as basin faults which might have acted as pathways for metal-rich fluids. Terms non-sulphide and oxide zinc mineralization are used interchangeably throughout the thesis. Recommendations on regional and local target generation are presented in the thesis to give some basic guide lines on target generation strategies. The most important conclusion reached in this study is that, success in exploration for non-sulphide or sulphide zinc mineralization might be enhanced through the integrated exploration methodology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Sitoka, Stefanus
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Scorpion Zinc Mine (Namibia) , Zinc ores , Oxide minerals , Sulfide minerals , Zinc mines and mining -- Namibia , Prospecting -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018204
- Description: The thesis is inspired by recent interests in oxide zinc ores caused by new developments in the technology of hydrometallurgy. The improved techniques turned the non-sulphide zinc ores in to attractive exploration targets due to a number of advantages such as low metal recovery costs and favorable environmental aspects such as the obvious absence of sulfur (Large, 2001). Historically extraction of zinc metal from oxide ores was not possible until recently. The metallurgical complexity resulted in a lack of interest and hence some economic oxide zinc ores might have been missed by conventional exploration techniques. The study presents a review of exploration status at Skorpion mine based on different exploration techniques and their application to sulphide and oxide zinc ore exploration. The challenge facing the mineral exploration industry today is the inability to detect mineral deposits under cover. Therefore a key to successful exploration program lies in the selection of the right exploration technique. Important parameters that should be highlighted in the exploration methodology are the geological situation of an area, equipment applicability and effectiveness, survey limitation, equipment mobilization and the safety aspects involved. The aim of this thesis is to provide a general guideline for sulphide and non-sulphide zinc ore exploration on the Skorpion area and other similar geological environments. Geochemical surveys appears to be more complimentary in exploration of non-sulphide zinc exploration. Although geochemical techniques are preferred, it is equally important to choose the right soil horizon. Furthermore, sample media may mean the difference between success and failure in geochemical exploration of non-sulphide zinc mineralization, due to high mobility of zinc in the surficial environment. On cost comparison, surface geochemical surveys programs are more cost effective except for litho-geochemical sampling which are commonly carried out through subsurface drilling. Geophysical techniques have limited application in exploration of non-sulphide zinc mineralization due to a lack of major physical properties (e.g., magnetic and electrical properties) in non-sulphides unlike their sulphide counterparts. However geophysical methods are commendable in delineating massive and disseminated sulphides mainly if they are associated with major Fe minerals (pyrrhotite or magnetite). In addition, geophysical techniques may be effective in mapping of subsurface primary and secondary structures such as basin faults which might have acted as pathways for metal-rich fluids. Terms non-sulphide and oxide zinc mineralization are used interchangeably throughout the thesis. Recommendations on regional and local target generation are presented in the thesis to give some basic guide lines on target generation strategies. The most important conclusion reached in this study is that, success in exploration for non-sulphide or sulphide zinc mineralization might be enhanced through the integrated exploration methodology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring contradictions and absences in mobilizing ‘learning as process' for sustainable agricultural practices
- Authors: Pesanayi, Tichaona
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437008 , vital:73323 , ISBN 9781315660899 , https://www.routledge.com/Critical-Realism-Environmental-Learning-and-Social-Ecological-Change/Price-Lotz-Sistka/p/book/9780367597689
- Description: Water is a fascinating, life-giving being. It flows. It cuts into the earth to create its passage by finding the places where the earth will give. As it meanders it passes through many different contexts, whether at a fastrush-full-blown flood or the trickle of an underground desert stream. It does not demand that the space it moves through is homogenous. It adapts to whatever terrain it finds itself journeying through. Human creatures, dependent as they are on water for their own beings and for life, flock to water like flies to food. We build our cities, our factories and homes on the banks and corners of rivers and draw and drink and use (and abuse) water. We throw in and we take out and the river keeps going until sometimes it doesn’t. Then we worry. Sometimes it is not the lack of flow that worries us but the fact that when we drink it babies become sick, some die and this causes a stir. In South Africa this security, or lack of it, is embedded in the political historical landscape of this land. Water is classified as scarce. Our rainfall is low in comparison to other countries. In South Africa, during apartheid this scarce resource was not avail able in equal measure to all. The rulers of apartheid South Africa were farmers and miners. They were of British decent, sent to farm the new colony. They were also descended from first colonial settlers arriving from the Nether-lands and then Germany, known colloquially as the Boers. South Africa was divided and redivided until in 1948 the Boers gained independence from British rule and finished the job that the British had started by legalizing the separation of races. Farming was still core to the Boer way of life and this is reflect-ed in the laws that dictated resource use and management, such as the 1956 Water Act No. 54 (RSA, 1956) which gave riparian rights to those that owned land. Water was also subsi-dized to boost the economy, particularly for the large mines, and parastatals such as Eskom (Byrnes, 1996). Water was not only used to ensure that the economy of white South Africa flourished, it also was the landmark of division.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Pesanayi, Tichaona
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437008 , vital:73323 , ISBN 9781315660899 , https://www.routledge.com/Critical-Realism-Environmental-Learning-and-Social-Ecological-Change/Price-Lotz-Sistka/p/book/9780367597689
- Description: Water is a fascinating, life-giving being. It flows. It cuts into the earth to create its passage by finding the places where the earth will give. As it meanders it passes through many different contexts, whether at a fastrush-full-blown flood or the trickle of an underground desert stream. It does not demand that the space it moves through is homogenous. It adapts to whatever terrain it finds itself journeying through. Human creatures, dependent as they are on water for their own beings and for life, flock to water like flies to food. We build our cities, our factories and homes on the banks and corners of rivers and draw and drink and use (and abuse) water. We throw in and we take out and the river keeps going until sometimes it doesn’t. Then we worry. Sometimes it is not the lack of flow that worries us but the fact that when we drink it babies become sick, some die and this causes a stir. In South Africa this security, or lack of it, is embedded in the political historical landscape of this land. Water is classified as scarce. Our rainfall is low in comparison to other countries. In South Africa, during apartheid this scarce resource was not avail able in equal measure to all. The rulers of apartheid South Africa were farmers and miners. They were of British decent, sent to farm the new colony. They were also descended from first colonial settlers arriving from the Nether-lands and then Germany, known colloquially as the Boers. South Africa was divided and redivided until in 1948 the Boers gained independence from British rule and finished the job that the British had started by legalizing the separation of races. Farming was still core to the Boer way of life and this is reflect-ed in the laws that dictated resource use and management, such as the 1956 Water Act No. 54 (RSA, 1956) which gave riparian rights to those that owned land. Water was also subsi-dized to boost the economy, particularly for the large mines, and parastatals such as Eskom (Byrnes, 1996). Water was not only used to ensure that the economy of white South Africa flourished, it also was the landmark of division.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring critical realist insights into transformative environmental learning processes in contexts of social-ecological risk
- Authors: Schudel, Ingrid J
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437045 , vital:73326 , ISBN 9781315660899 , https://www.routledge.com/Critical-Realism-Environmental-Learning-and-Social-Ecological-Change/Price-Lotz-Sistka/p/book/9780367597689
- Description: Environment and sustainability are continually recognized for significance to the future of planetary well-being. But the com-plex, cross-cutting transversal nature and associated ‘new-ness’1 of environment and sustainability concerns within edu-cation and training systems raise a number of challenges for education and training systems. In this chapter I explore how critical realist dialectics can help to more fully explain the ab-sence of intermediate pathways in the environment and sus-tain able development ‘sector’ in South Africa and through this analysis raise opportunities for creating more seamless envi-ronmental learning pathways into green jobs, enhancing social justice potential and public good concerns. The chapter situ-ates the discussion within the South African policy discourse of meaningful learning pathways (DHET, 2010) through a study of two priority scarce skills occupations in the environmental sector (environmental scientist and environmental technician). This is used as an example to illustrate systemic disjunctures that demonstrate how environmental learning pathways in and for sustain able development emerge. Using a critical realist lens to understand the absences that denote a relationship away from being allows the chapter to conceptualize absence as central to the real and hence to being (Lotz-Sisitka and Ramsarup, 2012; Bhaskar, 1993). Privileging absence allows me to develop a vantage point that connects being to becom-ing and hence underlines the intent for change inherent within this research. Norrie (2010, p. 28) states that ‘understanding change as a process of absenting of absences as well as the absenting of those structural constraints that keep absences in place . . . lies at the core of change’.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Schudel, Ingrid J
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437045 , vital:73326 , ISBN 9781315660899 , https://www.routledge.com/Critical-Realism-Environmental-Learning-and-Social-Ecological-Change/Price-Lotz-Sistka/p/book/9780367597689
- Description: Environment and sustainability are continually recognized for significance to the future of planetary well-being. But the com-plex, cross-cutting transversal nature and associated ‘new-ness’1 of environment and sustainability concerns within edu-cation and training systems raise a number of challenges for education and training systems. In this chapter I explore how critical realist dialectics can help to more fully explain the ab-sence of intermediate pathways in the environment and sus-tain able development ‘sector’ in South Africa and through this analysis raise opportunities for creating more seamless envi-ronmental learning pathways into green jobs, enhancing social justice potential and public good concerns. The chapter situ-ates the discussion within the South African policy discourse of meaningful learning pathways (DHET, 2010) through a study of two priority scarce skills occupations in the environmental sector (environmental scientist and environmental technician). This is used as an example to illustrate systemic disjunctures that demonstrate how environmental learning pathways in and for sustain able development emerge. Using a critical realist lens to understand the absences that denote a relationship away from being allows the chapter to conceptualize absence as central to the real and hence to being (Lotz-Sisitka and Ramsarup, 2012; Bhaskar, 1993). Privileging absence allows me to develop a vantage point that connects being to becom-ing and hence underlines the intent for change inherent within this research. Norrie (2010, p. 28) states that ‘understanding change as a process of absenting of absences as well as the absenting of those structural constraints that keep absences in place . . . lies at the core of change’.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring Grade 12 biology teachers' perceptions and experiences of the dissemination and utilization of Examiners' reports in the Khomas region of Namibia: a case study
- Authors: Bezuidenhoudt, Anthea
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Biology -- Examinations -- Namibia , Biology -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017332
- Description: Teachers’ perceptions are that currently dissemination in schools is ineffective and must change. The tensions that surround the dissemination of the reports are late arrival of Examiners’ reports which clash with preparation of learners for the first term examinations. Furthermore, the time the Examiners’ reports get into teachers’ hands are late and thus result in teachers rushing through it to incorporate the recommendations given in it in the second term or in some instances teachers do not attend to it at all. The number of copies of the Examiners’ reports provided to schools appears to be inadequate. HODs still having to duplicate reports before disseminating them add to their work load and further delay dissemination of the reports to individual subject teachers. Although the teaching and learning approach in Namibian classrooms should be based on LCE, dissemination of the actual physical reports are currently restricted to teachers only with them only verbally communicating feedback given in the reports to their learners. Support in dissemination of Examiners’ reports from peers and superiors in the majority of the schools appear to be lacking. Changes would like to be seen in the timing the Examiners’ reports are available at schools, the number of hard copies provided to schools and exploring and embarking on alternative ways of disseminating the reports. The percentage of utilization of the Examiners’ reports is relatively high, yet still not the optimum. A reasonable number of Namibian learners are disadvantaged and not exposed to a source of information that can make their Biology learning more efficient because some of their teachers are not using Examiners’ reports in their teaching. The main reason for non-utilization of the reports by Biology teachers is a result of inefficient dissemination at individual schools. The argument being that if the reports are not given to the teachers they and especially novice teachers will not know about the existence of this useful teaching and learning resource. Examiners’ reports are an important and systematic impartial source of high quality data on learning in the Namibian education system. Therefore, effective dissemination and utilization of the reports must be advocated and strengthened. DNEA and the Khomas regional office should embark on tapping into available development in information technology by doing research into the possibility of disseminating the Examiners’ reports electronically. A pilot in this regard should be conducted in the Khomas region as a measure to ensure dissemination can become more efficient in the future. To ensure that teachers optimally utilize the Examiners’ reports, they should be provided to schools when the school first term commences. The Khomas regional office should strengthen their involvement in utilization by arranging annual workshops where the content of the reports can be discussed to ensure that the feedback given in the reports can aid in developing and strengthening Biology teachers’ subject content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. Optimal utilization of Examiners’ reports can enable mediation in learners which can ensure effective learning and mastery of Biology by learners which can ultimately lead to an improvement in pass rate in Biology. Therefore, appropriate support to aid teachers’ professional development can enhance maximum utilization. Furthermore, an area for future research could be to give the Examiners’ reports to learners to determine the impact it has on their learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Bezuidenhoudt, Anthea
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Biology -- Examinations -- Namibia , Biology -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017332
- Description: Teachers’ perceptions are that currently dissemination in schools is ineffective and must change. The tensions that surround the dissemination of the reports are late arrival of Examiners’ reports which clash with preparation of learners for the first term examinations. Furthermore, the time the Examiners’ reports get into teachers’ hands are late and thus result in teachers rushing through it to incorporate the recommendations given in it in the second term or in some instances teachers do not attend to it at all. The number of copies of the Examiners’ reports provided to schools appears to be inadequate. HODs still having to duplicate reports before disseminating them add to their work load and further delay dissemination of the reports to individual subject teachers. Although the teaching and learning approach in Namibian classrooms should be based on LCE, dissemination of the actual physical reports are currently restricted to teachers only with them only verbally communicating feedback given in the reports to their learners. Support in dissemination of Examiners’ reports from peers and superiors in the majority of the schools appear to be lacking. Changes would like to be seen in the timing the Examiners’ reports are available at schools, the number of hard copies provided to schools and exploring and embarking on alternative ways of disseminating the reports. The percentage of utilization of the Examiners’ reports is relatively high, yet still not the optimum. A reasonable number of Namibian learners are disadvantaged and not exposed to a source of information that can make their Biology learning more efficient because some of their teachers are not using Examiners’ reports in their teaching. The main reason for non-utilization of the reports by Biology teachers is a result of inefficient dissemination at individual schools. The argument being that if the reports are not given to the teachers they and especially novice teachers will not know about the existence of this useful teaching and learning resource. Examiners’ reports are an important and systematic impartial source of high quality data on learning in the Namibian education system. Therefore, effective dissemination and utilization of the reports must be advocated and strengthened. DNEA and the Khomas regional office should embark on tapping into available development in information technology by doing research into the possibility of disseminating the Examiners’ reports electronically. A pilot in this regard should be conducted in the Khomas region as a measure to ensure dissemination can become more efficient in the future. To ensure that teachers optimally utilize the Examiners’ reports, they should be provided to schools when the school first term commences. The Khomas regional office should strengthen their involvement in utilization by arranging annual workshops where the content of the reports can be discussed to ensure that the feedback given in the reports can aid in developing and strengthening Biology teachers’ subject content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. Optimal utilization of Examiners’ reports can enable mediation in learners which can ensure effective learning and mastery of Biology by learners which can ultimately lead to an improvement in pass rate in Biology. Therefore, appropriate support to aid teachers’ professional development can enhance maximum utilization. Furthermore, an area for future research could be to give the Examiners’ reports to learners to determine the impact it has on their learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring lecturer experiences of the use of ICT in blended learning : a case study at a South African university
- Authors: Ntlabathi, Siyanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Technological innovations , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa , Internet in education -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa , Critical realism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017355
- Description: ICTs have had a tremendous impact on our educational environment. There have been a huge number of developments and support in implementation of ICT in Higher Education teaching and learning, also referred to as e-learning. Similarly there appears to be quite a number of research conducted on the use of ICTs in blended learning settings worldwide and as well as in South Africa. Very little research however, has focussed on the experiences of lecturers with e-learning, specifically as it relates to Learning Management Systems (LMS). In trying to meet the requirements of its academic programmes and be in line with new developments worldwide, the University which is the focus of this study pilot projected the use of an LMS in a blended learning approach which integrates face-to-face classes with Blackboard, an ICT-based system or tool. Following the implementation of the pilot project, this study explores the experiences of lecturers in their blended learning environments at this university in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The research design was that of an interpretative paradigm within a qualitative research approach in a case study methodology. Purposive sampling of six lecturers from departments within faculties across two campuses was done. The data was gathered through interviews, a follow-up questionnaire and document analysis was employed. Using Critical and Social Realism as meta-theories the study employed aspects of Activity Theory as substantive theory to understand particular experiences of blended learning environments and identify conditions which enable and constrain engagement in these environments so as to explore potential lessons to inform the kind of educational support which could be offered to facilitate uptake of the LMS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ntlabathi, Siyanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Technological innovations , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa , Internet in education -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa , Critical realism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017355
- Description: ICTs have had a tremendous impact on our educational environment. There have been a huge number of developments and support in implementation of ICT in Higher Education teaching and learning, also referred to as e-learning. Similarly there appears to be quite a number of research conducted on the use of ICTs in blended learning settings worldwide and as well as in South Africa. Very little research however, has focussed on the experiences of lecturers with e-learning, specifically as it relates to Learning Management Systems (LMS). In trying to meet the requirements of its academic programmes and be in line with new developments worldwide, the University which is the focus of this study pilot projected the use of an LMS in a blended learning approach which integrates face-to-face classes with Blackboard, an ICT-based system or tool. Following the implementation of the pilot project, this study explores the experiences of lecturers in their blended learning environments at this university in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The research design was that of an interpretative paradigm within a qualitative research approach in a case study methodology. Purposive sampling of six lecturers from departments within faculties across two campuses was done. The data was gathered through interviews, a follow-up questionnaire and document analysis was employed. Using Critical and Social Realism as meta-theories the study employed aspects of Activity Theory as substantive theory to understand particular experiences of blended learning environments and identify conditions which enable and constrain engagement in these environments so as to explore potential lessons to inform the kind of educational support which could be offered to facilitate uptake of the LMS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring of a succession planning framework for women in the South African aviation industry
- Authors: Hoffman, Confidence Lydia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women executives , Women in development , Women -- Employment , Sex role in the work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8272 , vital:26318
- Description: Women globally are seen as key contributors to the economic development and ‘bottom-line’ of businesses, but their presence and representation is still lacking in senior positions and the boardroom. Although after 20 years of democracy, the South African government has made significant progress towards empowering women in all spheres of business, inequalities and imbalances remain huge stumbling blocks. Embracing diversity and advocating gender equality makes business sense; this includes developing women as leaders through effectively implementing succession planning. Research shows that most companies have a succession plan document in place, but whether it is correctly implemented and effective remains to be investigated. A company’s leadership and human resources management together need to create a robust succession planning framework which aligns the vision of the company and talent management. The purpose of this research study was to determine the perceived success of succession planning for women in businesses in South Africa. The study’s primary objective was to develop and explore a succession planning framework for women in the South African Aviation Industry. A detailed literature review was conducted on women in business, leadership and succession planning. A qualitative case study approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study to test whether the six propositions developed by the researcher applied to this single case or not. A questionnaire was developed to be used as a guide when interviewing the female respondents. The results were analysed and based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research. The main finding of this research was that the selected company lacks the correct implementation of the succession planning process. A possible solution to this issue would be the recruitment of a succession planning coordinator who has strong knowledge of the company’s policies, procedures and culture to establish strategies to roll out the succession planning programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Hoffman, Confidence Lydia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women executives , Women in development , Women -- Employment , Sex role in the work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8272 , vital:26318
- Description: Women globally are seen as key contributors to the economic development and ‘bottom-line’ of businesses, but their presence and representation is still lacking in senior positions and the boardroom. Although after 20 years of democracy, the South African government has made significant progress towards empowering women in all spheres of business, inequalities and imbalances remain huge stumbling blocks. Embracing diversity and advocating gender equality makes business sense; this includes developing women as leaders through effectively implementing succession planning. Research shows that most companies have a succession plan document in place, but whether it is correctly implemented and effective remains to be investigated. A company’s leadership and human resources management together need to create a robust succession planning framework which aligns the vision of the company and talent management. The purpose of this research study was to determine the perceived success of succession planning for women in businesses in South Africa. The study’s primary objective was to develop and explore a succession planning framework for women in the South African Aviation Industry. A detailed literature review was conducted on women in business, leadership and succession planning. A qualitative case study approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study to test whether the six propositions developed by the researcher applied to this single case or not. A questionnaire was developed to be used as a guide when interviewing the female respondents. The results were analysed and based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research. The main finding of this research was that the selected company lacks the correct implementation of the succession planning process. A possible solution to this issue would be the recruitment of a succession planning coordinator who has strong knowledge of the company’s policies, procedures and culture to establish strategies to roll out the succession planning programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring patterns of Facebook usage, social capital, loneliness and well-being among a diverse South African student sample:
- Young, Charles S, Strelitz, Larry N
- Authors: Young, Charles S , Strelitz, Larry N
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143705 , vital:38275 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: There has been much debate over whether the use of social network sites isolate people and truncate their relationships or alternatively, provide beneficial connections with others. This debate has been framed by a growing international literature which explores the triadic relationship between the intensity of use of Facebook to the maintenance of social capital and in turn the relationship between social capital and wellbeing and loneliness. A random list of 1168 Rhodes University students was drawn from the total student body and invited to participate in an online survey. In total, 491 students completed the survey (42% response rate). Hierarchical regression analyses demonstrate that intensity of Facebook usage adds a very small contribution to social capital, is very weakly associated with loneliness, and is not associated with wellbeing. Results contrast with international studies that fail to recognise the extent to which race and class cleavages impact on access to and use of social media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Young, Charles S , Strelitz, Larry N
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143705 , vital:38275 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: There has been much debate over whether the use of social network sites isolate people and truncate their relationships or alternatively, provide beneficial connections with others. This debate has been framed by a growing international literature which explores the triadic relationship between the intensity of use of Facebook to the maintenance of social capital and in turn the relationship between social capital and wellbeing and loneliness. A random list of 1168 Rhodes University students was drawn from the total student body and invited to participate in an online survey. In total, 491 students completed the survey (42% response rate). Hierarchical regression analyses demonstrate that intensity of Facebook usage adds a very small contribution to social capital, is very weakly associated with loneliness, and is not associated with wellbeing. Results contrast with international studies that fail to recognise the extent to which race and class cleavages impact on access to and use of social media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring problematic experiences : an IPA study of 'Internet Addiction'
- Authors: Allie, Naaheeda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Internet addiction , Compulsive behavior , Security (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3256 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016395
- Description: In the past two decades, a considerable amount of research has been carried out on the phenomenon of excessive Internet use, variously termed Internet addiction, Internet dependency and problematic Internet use. Despite this, there is still little agreement as to what constitutes this phenomenon, whether it should be considered a clinical disorder or not and what leads to this excessive or maladaptive use. The terminology used in this study is that of Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Several theoretical models have been proposed in the understanding of PIU including personality models, operant conditioning models, social cognitive and cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; LaRose, lin & Eastin, 2003; Young, 1999). A proposed gap in the literature is the lack of studies exploring participant experiences of problematic Internet use. It is for this reason that this study aimed at exploring the experiences of a small sample of individuals with self-identified problematic Internet use. The implications of this phenomenological data for the above-mentioned theoretical models were then reviewed. This study used an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach in exploring these aims. A sample of four participants was selected through purposive sampling techniques. Four major themes emerged from the analysis namely: Escapism, Social Insecurity and Validation, Perfectionism and Control. These experiences of participants were also explored in terms of the conceptual models reviewed in order to compare how closely they related to participant experiences. A strong inter-relationship was found between the four themes mentioned above. The Internet appeared to provide a sense of control and validation to these individuals while simultaneously rendering them unable to maintain control of their Internet usage in relation to this. This sense of control was experienced through an escape from negative emotions, offline obligations and at times a dissatisfactory position in reality. Of the four models reviewed, the Social Cognitive model proposed by LaRose et al. (2003) appeared to offer the most relevant understanding of PIU to participant experiences. The presence of maladaptive cognitions also appeared to feature strongly as an underlying factor in participants' PIU, as theorised by cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; Young, 1999) Finally recommendations are made for further more detailed exploration of PIU using interpretative, experiential methods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Allie, Naaheeda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Internet addiction , Compulsive behavior , Security (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3256 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016395
- Description: In the past two decades, a considerable amount of research has been carried out on the phenomenon of excessive Internet use, variously termed Internet addiction, Internet dependency and problematic Internet use. Despite this, there is still little agreement as to what constitutes this phenomenon, whether it should be considered a clinical disorder or not and what leads to this excessive or maladaptive use. The terminology used in this study is that of Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Several theoretical models have been proposed in the understanding of PIU including personality models, operant conditioning models, social cognitive and cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; LaRose, lin & Eastin, 2003; Young, 1999). A proposed gap in the literature is the lack of studies exploring participant experiences of problematic Internet use. It is for this reason that this study aimed at exploring the experiences of a small sample of individuals with self-identified problematic Internet use. The implications of this phenomenological data for the above-mentioned theoretical models were then reviewed. This study used an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach in exploring these aims. A sample of four participants was selected through purposive sampling techniques. Four major themes emerged from the analysis namely: Escapism, Social Insecurity and Validation, Perfectionism and Control. These experiences of participants were also explored in terms of the conceptual models reviewed in order to compare how closely they related to participant experiences. A strong inter-relationship was found between the four themes mentioned above. The Internet appeared to provide a sense of control and validation to these individuals while simultaneously rendering them unable to maintain control of their Internet usage in relation to this. This sense of control was experienced through an escape from negative emotions, offline obligations and at times a dissatisfactory position in reality. Of the four models reviewed, the Social Cognitive model proposed by LaRose et al. (2003) appeared to offer the most relevant understanding of PIU to participant experiences. The presence of maladaptive cognitions also appeared to feature strongly as an underlying factor in participants' PIU, as theorised by cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; Young, 1999) Finally recommendations are made for further more detailed exploration of PIU using interpretative, experiential methods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring South African mathematics teachers’ experiences of learner migration
- Robertson, Sally-Ann, Graven, Mellony
- Authors: Robertson, Sally-Ann , Graven, Mellony
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/482377 , vital:78645 , https://doi.org/10.1080/14675986.2015.1071754
- Description: This paper focuses on patterns of post-apartheid learner migration between schools previously segregated along racial lines. South Africa’s shift away from cultural and linguistic isolationism and the ways this has impacted educational arrangements in this country, most particularly in relation to the language of learning and teaching, affects mathematics teaching and learning in complex ways. We focus on how changes in the demographic make-up of some schools have affected the teaching and learning of mathematics by drawing on two case study vignettes in historically different schools. The vignettes are used to illuminate our discussion and to raise key questions requiring further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Robertson, Sally-Ann , Graven, Mellony
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/482377 , vital:78645 , https://doi.org/10.1080/14675986.2015.1071754
- Description: This paper focuses on patterns of post-apartheid learner migration between schools previously segregated along racial lines. South Africa’s shift away from cultural and linguistic isolationism and the ways this has impacted educational arrangements in this country, most particularly in relation to the language of learning and teaching, affects mathematics teaching and learning in complex ways. We focus on how changes in the demographic make-up of some schools have affected the teaching and learning of mathematics by drawing on two case study vignettes in historically different schools. The vignettes are used to illuminate our discussion and to raise key questions requiring further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the communication skills of community pharmacists in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Knoesen, Brent Claud
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in pharmacy , Pharmacist and patient
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7981 , vital:24333
- Description: Pharmacy is an information-driven profession that requires effective face-to-face pharmacist-client communication. With the addition of corporate community pharmacies to traditional independent community pharmacies in South Africa (SA), new challenges may hamper pharmacist-client interactions. This study aimed to identify, adapt and improve the communication skills pharmacists require for a changing community pharmacy environment. Specific objectives were to identify basic communication skills, to evaluate the use of these skills by community pharmacists in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM), to identify communication barriers, and to identify any differences in pharmacist-client communication in the two community pharmacy sectors. A mixed methods research design was implemented. The empirical activities consisted of three client focus groups (17 citizens from the NMM), a client survey (220 clients visiting seven independent and seven corporate community pharmacies in the NMM), a pseudo-client study (the same 14 community pharmacies in NMM), and a Delphi study. Twenty-one pharmacists from the 14 community pharmacies participated in Phase one of the Delphi study; nine academic pharmacists from five pharmacy departments/schools/faculties in SA participated in Phase two. Various qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to analyse and interpret the results. Results indicated that clients consult on many occasions with community pharmacists. Community and academic pharmacists listed listening and nonverbal skills as most important communication skills to ensure effective pharmacist-client communication. Counselling privacy and language barriers were listed as major problems influencing the interaction. The results obtained allowed the researcher to propose a practical communication model to assist future community pharmacists in communication skills training
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Knoesen, Brent Claud
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in pharmacy , Pharmacist and patient
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7981 , vital:24333
- Description: Pharmacy is an information-driven profession that requires effective face-to-face pharmacist-client communication. With the addition of corporate community pharmacies to traditional independent community pharmacies in South Africa (SA), new challenges may hamper pharmacist-client interactions. This study aimed to identify, adapt and improve the communication skills pharmacists require for a changing community pharmacy environment. Specific objectives were to identify basic communication skills, to evaluate the use of these skills by community pharmacists in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM), to identify communication barriers, and to identify any differences in pharmacist-client communication in the two community pharmacy sectors. A mixed methods research design was implemented. The empirical activities consisted of three client focus groups (17 citizens from the NMM), a client survey (220 clients visiting seven independent and seven corporate community pharmacies in the NMM), a pseudo-client study (the same 14 community pharmacies in NMM), and a Delphi study. Twenty-one pharmacists from the 14 community pharmacies participated in Phase one of the Delphi study; nine academic pharmacists from five pharmacy departments/schools/faculties in SA participated in Phase two. Various qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to analyse and interpret the results. Results indicated that clients consult on many occasions with community pharmacists. Community and academic pharmacists listed listening and nonverbal skills as most important communication skills to ensure effective pharmacist-client communication. Counselling privacy and language barriers were listed as major problems influencing the interaction. The results obtained allowed the researcher to propose a practical communication model to assist future community pharmacists in communication skills training
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the development of an integrated, participative, water quality management process for the Crocodile River catchment, focusing on the sugar industry
- Authors: Sahula, Asiphe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Water quality management -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Watersheds -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Integrated water development -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality management -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6051 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017876
- Description: Water quality deterioration is reaching crisis proportions in South Africa. Many South African catchments are over-allocated, and decreasing volumes of source water mean increasing concentrations of pollutants. The Crocodile River Catchment in the Mpumalanga province in South Africa was identified through previous research, as a catchment faced with deteriorating source water quality for water users in the catchment. Poor source water quality has become a sufficiently acute concern for the stakeholders in this catchment to co-operate in developing a process that assists with compliance control of their water use and waste disposal to reduce costs, decrease industrial risks as water quality compliance increases, and improve source water quality. The sugar industry is downstream within the Crocodile River Catchment, and is affected by the activities of all upstream water users; the industry is thus dependent on the stakeholders upstream participating in the effective management of the resource. However, the sugar industry is also located just before the confluence of the Crocodile River and Komati River upstream of the Mozambique border, and thus the water quality of the sugar industry effluent will affect the quality of the water that flows into Mozambique. The sugar industry is on the opposite river bank to the Kruger National Park, which has high water resource protection goals. Therefore, the sugar industry has a national role to play in the management of water resources in the Crocodile River Catchment. This study provides a focused view of the role of the sugar industry in the development of a co-operative, integrated water quality management process (IWQMP) in the Crocodile River Catchment. In order to address the objectives of this study, this research drew from an understanding of the social processes that influence water management practices within the sugar industry as well as social processes that influence the role of the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency as the main governing institution in water resource management in the Inkomati Water Management Area. The study also drew from an understanding of scientific knowledge in terms of a water chemistry which describes the upstream and downstream water quality impacts related to the sugar industry. The water quality analysis for the Lower Crocodile River Catchment shows a decline in water quality in terms of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) loads when moving from below Mbombela to the Mozambique border. The major sources of TDS in the Lower Crocodile River are point source dominated, which may be attributed to the extensive mining, industrial and municipal activities that occur across the catchment. When observing Total Alkalinity (TAL) and pH values from below Mbombela to the furthest monitoring point, there is deterioration in the quality of the water in the Lower Crocodile River, with the Kaap River contributing a negative effect that is diluted by the Crocodile main stem. The Hectorspruit Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) (located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment) contributes high concentrations of TDS and TAL into the Crocodile River. Total Inorganic Nitrogen and Soluble Reactive Phosphorus concentrations decrease in the lower reaches of the Crocodile River compared with the river below Mbombela, which can be attributed to the extensive sugar cane plantations located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment acting as an “agricultural wetland” that serves a function of bioremediation resulting in large scale absorption of nutrients. This is an interesting result as earlier assumptions were that fertiliser application would result in an overall increase in nutrient loads and concentrations. Biomonitoring data show no substantial change in aquatic health in the LowerCrocodile River Catchment. For a catchment that has an extensive agricultural land use in terms of sugarcane and citrus production, the Crocodile River is unexpectedly not in a toxic state in terms of aquatic health. This is a positive result and it suggests that pesticide use is strictly controlled in the sugar and citrus industry in the Crocodile River Catchment. For long term sustainability, it is essential for the sugar industry to maintain (and possibly improve) this pesticide management. The social component of this study aimed to provide an analysis of the management practices of the sugar mill as well as examining agricultural practices in the sugar cane fields in relation to water quality management through the use of Cultural Historical Activity System Theory (CHAT). This component showed that there are contradictions within the sugar industry activity system that are considered to be areas of “tension” that can be loosened or focused on to improve the contribution the sugar industry can make to the IWQMP. Surfacing contradictions within the sugar industry activity system and the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency activity systems highlighted areas of potential for learning and change. While an understanding of biophysical processes through scientific knowledge is critical in water management decision making, it is evident that an understanding of other actors, institutions and networks that inform water quality management decision-making also plays a significant role. The notion of improving the role of scientific or biophysical knowledge in contributing to socio-ecologically robust knowledge co-creation, decisions and actions towards resolving water quality problems is emphasised. Specifically, moving towards improving interactions between scientists and other actors (water users in the Crocodile Catchment in this case), so that scientific practices become more orientated towards societal platforms where water quality management is tackled to enable improved water quality management practices. Therefore, linking the social and biophysical components in this study provides a holistic understanding of how the sugar industry can contribute to the development of an IWQMP for the Crocodile River catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Sahula, Asiphe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Water quality management -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Watersheds -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Integrated water development -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality management -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6051 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017876
- Description: Water quality deterioration is reaching crisis proportions in South Africa. Many South African catchments are over-allocated, and decreasing volumes of source water mean increasing concentrations of pollutants. The Crocodile River Catchment in the Mpumalanga province in South Africa was identified through previous research, as a catchment faced with deteriorating source water quality for water users in the catchment. Poor source water quality has become a sufficiently acute concern for the stakeholders in this catchment to co-operate in developing a process that assists with compliance control of their water use and waste disposal to reduce costs, decrease industrial risks as water quality compliance increases, and improve source water quality. The sugar industry is downstream within the Crocodile River Catchment, and is affected by the activities of all upstream water users; the industry is thus dependent on the stakeholders upstream participating in the effective management of the resource. However, the sugar industry is also located just before the confluence of the Crocodile River and Komati River upstream of the Mozambique border, and thus the water quality of the sugar industry effluent will affect the quality of the water that flows into Mozambique. The sugar industry is on the opposite river bank to the Kruger National Park, which has high water resource protection goals. Therefore, the sugar industry has a national role to play in the management of water resources in the Crocodile River Catchment. This study provides a focused view of the role of the sugar industry in the development of a co-operative, integrated water quality management process (IWQMP) in the Crocodile River Catchment. In order to address the objectives of this study, this research drew from an understanding of the social processes that influence water management practices within the sugar industry as well as social processes that influence the role of the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency as the main governing institution in water resource management in the Inkomati Water Management Area. The study also drew from an understanding of scientific knowledge in terms of a water chemistry which describes the upstream and downstream water quality impacts related to the sugar industry. The water quality analysis for the Lower Crocodile River Catchment shows a decline in water quality in terms of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) loads when moving from below Mbombela to the Mozambique border. The major sources of TDS in the Lower Crocodile River are point source dominated, which may be attributed to the extensive mining, industrial and municipal activities that occur across the catchment. When observing Total Alkalinity (TAL) and pH values from below Mbombela to the furthest monitoring point, there is deterioration in the quality of the water in the Lower Crocodile River, with the Kaap River contributing a negative effect that is diluted by the Crocodile main stem. The Hectorspruit Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) (located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment) contributes high concentrations of TDS and TAL into the Crocodile River. Total Inorganic Nitrogen and Soluble Reactive Phosphorus concentrations decrease in the lower reaches of the Crocodile River compared with the river below Mbombela, which can be attributed to the extensive sugar cane plantations located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment acting as an “agricultural wetland” that serves a function of bioremediation resulting in large scale absorption of nutrients. This is an interesting result as earlier assumptions were that fertiliser application would result in an overall increase in nutrient loads and concentrations. Biomonitoring data show no substantial change in aquatic health in the LowerCrocodile River Catchment. For a catchment that has an extensive agricultural land use in terms of sugarcane and citrus production, the Crocodile River is unexpectedly not in a toxic state in terms of aquatic health. This is a positive result and it suggests that pesticide use is strictly controlled in the sugar and citrus industry in the Crocodile River Catchment. For long term sustainability, it is essential for the sugar industry to maintain (and possibly improve) this pesticide management. The social component of this study aimed to provide an analysis of the management practices of the sugar mill as well as examining agricultural practices in the sugar cane fields in relation to water quality management through the use of Cultural Historical Activity System Theory (CHAT). This component showed that there are contradictions within the sugar industry activity system that are considered to be areas of “tension” that can be loosened or focused on to improve the contribution the sugar industry can make to the IWQMP. Surfacing contradictions within the sugar industry activity system and the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency activity systems highlighted areas of potential for learning and change. While an understanding of biophysical processes through scientific knowledge is critical in water management decision making, it is evident that an understanding of other actors, institutions and networks that inform water quality management decision-making also plays a significant role. The notion of improving the role of scientific or biophysical knowledge in contributing to socio-ecologically robust knowledge co-creation, decisions and actions towards resolving water quality problems is emphasised. Specifically, moving towards improving interactions between scientists and other actors (water users in the Crocodile Catchment in this case), so that scientific practices become more orientated towards societal platforms where water quality management is tackled to enable improved water quality management practices. Therefore, linking the social and biophysical components in this study provides a holistic understanding of how the sugar industry can contribute to the development of an IWQMP for the Crocodile River catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children : the case of Mlungisi Township in Queenstown
- Authors: Ntsumpa, SL
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Family violence Abused children--South Africa Children and violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17338 , vital:40957
- Description: The main aim of the study was to explore the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children at Mlungisi Township, Chris Hani District in Queenstown – Eastern Cape Province. The specific objectives of the study were: to investigate the effect domestic violence has on the psychosocial development of children; to assess the behavior of the children subjected to domestic violence; and to examine challenges that children are facing due to domestic violence; and to examine the support provided by professionals (Social works, community worker, educator, South African Police and Justice System) to children who are victims of domestic violence. The study adopted a qualitative research paradigm and non-probability sampling methodology in the form of purposive sampling technique. The study‟s sample size comprised of 20 participants, 7 male children between the ages of 9 and 16, and 8 female children between the ages of 9 and 16 on in-depth one-on-one interviews. Five children withdrew from the study because they became emotional and were reluctant to participate. The study also comprised of 5 participants in a focus group which composed of various professionals from government departments such as: Department of Social Development, Department of Education, South African Police Services, Lukhanji Municipality and Justice Official who are directly working with children. The research instrument used was an interview guide with open ended questions. The study findings include the following: effects of domestic violence on the psychosocial development of children; challenges faced by children due to domestic violence; behaviors of children subjected to domestic violence; support services; efficiency and effectiveness of services rendered to the children; and improvement of services rendered to the victims by government officials. The study recommendations were: more studies on domestic violence specifically on children as victims should be done; policy regarding domestic violence needs to be reviewed and in order to accommodate children; there should be policies that focus solemnly to children who happen to be victims of domestic violence not domestic violence in general; and government departments and other relevant stakeholder should be strengthened or even develop new intervention strategies to ensure effectiveness in curbing domestic violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ntsumpa, SL
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Family violence Abused children--South Africa Children and violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17338 , vital:40957
- Description: The main aim of the study was to explore the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children at Mlungisi Township, Chris Hani District in Queenstown – Eastern Cape Province. The specific objectives of the study were: to investigate the effect domestic violence has on the psychosocial development of children; to assess the behavior of the children subjected to domestic violence; and to examine challenges that children are facing due to domestic violence; and to examine the support provided by professionals (Social works, community worker, educator, South African Police and Justice System) to children who are victims of domestic violence. The study adopted a qualitative research paradigm and non-probability sampling methodology in the form of purposive sampling technique. The study‟s sample size comprised of 20 participants, 7 male children between the ages of 9 and 16, and 8 female children between the ages of 9 and 16 on in-depth one-on-one interviews. Five children withdrew from the study because they became emotional and were reluctant to participate. The study also comprised of 5 participants in a focus group which composed of various professionals from government departments such as: Department of Social Development, Department of Education, South African Police Services, Lukhanji Municipality and Justice Official who are directly working with children. The research instrument used was an interview guide with open ended questions. The study findings include the following: effects of domestic violence on the psychosocial development of children; challenges faced by children due to domestic violence; behaviors of children subjected to domestic violence; support services; efficiency and effectiveness of services rendered to the children; and improvement of services rendered to the victims by government officials. The study recommendations were: more studies on domestic violence specifically on children as victims should be done; policy regarding domestic violence needs to be reviewed and in order to accommodate children; there should be policies that focus solemnly to children who happen to be victims of domestic violence not domestic violence in general; and government departments and other relevant stakeholder should be strengthened or even develop new intervention strategies to ensure effectiveness in curbing domestic violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the effects of the psychological contract on organisational commitment and employee engagement in a restructured organisational environment: the case of selected hospitals in the Eastern Cape province
- Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Authors: Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Psychology, Industrial -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1984 , vital:27591
- Description: This study investigated the impact of organisation restructuring on the psychological contract and the effects on employee engagement and organisational commitment. The study focused on employees from selected health care institutions. The sample consisted of 156 employees from the selected health care institutions. Results indicated positive relationships between employee engagement, psychological contract and organisational commitment. The researcher recommended a better understanding of the manner in which individuals interpret various inducements where would clearer prescriptions be provided. Therefore, employers were advised to be aware of employees’ values and attempt to address them as they are important
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Psychology, Industrial -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1984 , vital:27591
- Description: This study investigated the impact of organisation restructuring on the psychological contract and the effects on employee engagement and organisational commitment. The study focused on employees from selected health care institutions. The sample consisted of 156 employees from the selected health care institutions. Results indicated positive relationships between employee engagement, psychological contract and organisational commitment. The researcher recommended a better understanding of the manner in which individuals interpret various inducements where would clearer prescriptions be provided. Therefore, employers were advised to be aware of employees’ values and attempt to address them as they are important
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the emancipatory potential of nursing practice in relation to sexuality: a systematic literature review of nursing research 2009-2014
- Nhamo-Murire, Mercy, Macleod, Catriona I
- Authors: Nhamo-Murire, Mercy , Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143650 , vital:38270 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: Nurses play an important role in disseminating health information and in the provision of counselling concerning sexuality healthcare settings. There is some evidence, however, that nurses do not always consider issues relating to sexualities in their general practice, and when they do, may feel some discomfort in addressing sexuality. In this paper we report on a systematic review of research on nursing practice in relation to sexualities that appeared in nursing journals in the Web of Science database from 2009-2014. Thirty nine articles, which were published in English and reported on nursing practice in relation to sexualities, were thematically analysed. We focus on what research has been done and how this research may be used in the development of emancipatory nursing practice in relation to sexualities. Despite increasing attention being paid to social justice issues in nursing, the implications of this for nursing practice needs further exploration.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nhamo-Murire, Mercy , Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143650 , vital:38270 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: Nurses play an important role in disseminating health information and in the provision of counselling concerning sexuality healthcare settings. There is some evidence, however, that nurses do not always consider issues relating to sexualities in their general practice, and when they do, may feel some discomfort in addressing sexuality. In this paper we report on a systematic review of research on nursing practice in relation to sexualities that appeared in nursing journals in the Web of Science database from 2009-2014. Thirty nine articles, which were published in English and reported on nursing practice in relation to sexualities, were thematically analysed. We focus on what research has been done and how this research may be used in the development of emancipatory nursing practice in relation to sexualities. Despite increasing attention being paid to social justice issues in nursing, the implications of this for nursing practice needs further exploration.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the lived experiences of South African maladaptive gamblers
- Authors: Tennant, Charnel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gambling -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Gambling industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5021 , vital:20792
- Description: For many individuals, gambling is regarded as a recreational activity, a socially encompassed pastime. For the individuals who partook in the present study, gambling is an Achilles heel at which the individuals were hopelessly at the mercy of. Initially a ‘fun’ activity, gambling emerged as an activity that provided both an aspect of enjoyment and escapism. Later, as the behaviour increased, interpersonal and intrapersonal consequences emerged; which eventually led participants to take action and break free from the activity once experienced as recreational and now as a “monster”. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience of six South African individuals who met the criteria for a gambling disorder. Both a phenomenological approach and ecological perspective were used to elicit the essence of this particular phenomenon as experienced by the participants. Purposive sampling procedures were implemented. Data was collected through the use of a biographical questionnaire and individual, open ended conversations with six gamblers. The data was processed and analysed according to qualitative data processing and analysis procedures. Due to the gap in qualitative research in this particular area, specifically in the South African context, this research study has the potential to create a better understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction through the shared experiences of participants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Tennant, Charnel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gambling -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Gambling industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5021 , vital:20792
- Description: For many individuals, gambling is regarded as a recreational activity, a socially encompassed pastime. For the individuals who partook in the present study, gambling is an Achilles heel at which the individuals were hopelessly at the mercy of. Initially a ‘fun’ activity, gambling emerged as an activity that provided both an aspect of enjoyment and escapism. Later, as the behaviour increased, interpersonal and intrapersonal consequences emerged; which eventually led participants to take action and break free from the activity once experienced as recreational and now as a “monster”. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience of six South African individuals who met the criteria for a gambling disorder. Both a phenomenological approach and ecological perspective were used to elicit the essence of this particular phenomenon as experienced by the participants. Purposive sampling procedures were implemented. Data was collected through the use of a biographical questionnaire and individual, open ended conversations with six gamblers. The data was processed and analysed according to qualitative data processing and analysis procedures. Due to the gap in qualitative research in this particular area, specifically in the South African context, this research study has the potential to create a better understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction through the shared experiences of participants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the relationship between an "English-only" language-in-education policy and bilingual practices in secondary schools in Zanzibar
- Authors: Maalim, Haroun Ayoub
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Language and education -- Zanzibar , Native language and education -- Zanzibar , Code switching (Linguistics) -- Zanzibar , Language policy -- Zanzibar
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3650 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017891
- Description: This thesis reports on the relationship between an English-only language-ineducation policy and bilingual practices in secondary schools in Zanzibar. The focus is on language use in the classroom against the backdrop of a top-down and English-only language-in-education policy. The main purpose has been to gain an in-depth understanding of the relationship between the stipulations of the policy which was imposed from above and the judicious bilingual practices which are a commonly accepted as the norm in secondary schools in Zanzibar. The study employed a mixed method approach (QUAL+quant) and embraced elements of ethnography. The data for this study was gathered from two secondary schools which were purposively selected on the basis of parameters that were set in this study. Among other things, these include the secondary schools which have both ‘Ordinary level’ and ‘Advance level’, and the schools which teach the same subject using Kiswahili as the language of learning and teaching at one level, and English as the language of learning and teaching at another level. Data were obtained from multiple sources. On the one hand, through ethnography, classroom observations, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with teachers and students, and interviews with key actors were conducted. On the other hand, students’ test scripts, and students’ test and examination results (scores) were analysed. Both purposive and random sampling were used to get the participants. Drawing from Ruiz’s (1984) seminal tripartite orientations of language planning (language as right, language as problem, and language as resource) thematic analysis, content analysis, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) were used to analyse data. The findings reveal that the use of bilingual (English and Kiswahili) in English medium subjects is a resource rather than a deficit since an overwhelming majority of students and some teachers cannot function positively in the topdown English-only language-in-education policy. Most significantly, teachers use Kiswahili in English medium subjects as a strategy for teaching terminologies, abstract concepts, and unfamiliar topics, as well as for clarification of ideas and for comprehension check. The study further indicates that the examinations and tests of English medium subjects do not assess what is exactly intended to be assessed (subject matter), but instead they assess English language. In addition, empirical evidence shows that language is a factor for students’ achievements in that students performed considerably better when the subjects were assessed in Kiswahili compared to the same subjects assessed in English. The findings further reveal that Kiswahili is suitable to be used as a sole language of learning and teaching in secondary schools of Zanzibar. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the use of Kiswahili in English medium subjects should be officially recognised and students should be given options of the language of assessment as an urgent step. Furthermore, given the urgency of the need for improving students’ performance, it is now high time to introduce Kiswahili medium of instruction secondary schools in Zanzibar which should co-exist with English medium of instruction secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Maalim, Haroun Ayoub
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Language and education -- Zanzibar , Native language and education -- Zanzibar , Code switching (Linguistics) -- Zanzibar , Language policy -- Zanzibar
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3650 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017891
- Description: This thesis reports on the relationship between an English-only language-ineducation policy and bilingual practices in secondary schools in Zanzibar. The focus is on language use in the classroom against the backdrop of a top-down and English-only language-in-education policy. The main purpose has been to gain an in-depth understanding of the relationship between the stipulations of the policy which was imposed from above and the judicious bilingual practices which are a commonly accepted as the norm in secondary schools in Zanzibar. The study employed a mixed method approach (QUAL+quant) and embraced elements of ethnography. The data for this study was gathered from two secondary schools which were purposively selected on the basis of parameters that were set in this study. Among other things, these include the secondary schools which have both ‘Ordinary level’ and ‘Advance level’, and the schools which teach the same subject using Kiswahili as the language of learning and teaching at one level, and English as the language of learning and teaching at another level. Data were obtained from multiple sources. On the one hand, through ethnography, classroom observations, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with teachers and students, and interviews with key actors were conducted. On the other hand, students’ test scripts, and students’ test and examination results (scores) were analysed. Both purposive and random sampling were used to get the participants. Drawing from Ruiz’s (1984) seminal tripartite orientations of language planning (language as right, language as problem, and language as resource) thematic analysis, content analysis, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) were used to analyse data. The findings reveal that the use of bilingual (English and Kiswahili) in English medium subjects is a resource rather than a deficit since an overwhelming majority of students and some teachers cannot function positively in the topdown English-only language-in-education policy. Most significantly, teachers use Kiswahili in English medium subjects as a strategy for teaching terminologies, abstract concepts, and unfamiliar topics, as well as for clarification of ideas and for comprehension check. The study further indicates that the examinations and tests of English medium subjects do not assess what is exactly intended to be assessed (subject matter), but instead they assess English language. In addition, empirical evidence shows that language is a factor for students’ achievements in that students performed considerably better when the subjects were assessed in Kiswahili compared to the same subjects assessed in English. The findings further reveal that Kiswahili is suitable to be used as a sole language of learning and teaching in secondary schools of Zanzibar. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the use of Kiswahili in English medium subjects should be officially recognised and students should be given options of the language of assessment as an urgent step. Furthermore, given the urgency of the need for improving students’ performance, it is now high time to introduce Kiswahili medium of instruction secondary schools in Zanzibar which should co-exist with English medium of instruction secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Côte D'Ivoire
- Authors: Kpalou, Jean-Yves
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social status -- Côte d'Ivoire , Postwar reconstruction -- Côte d'Ivoire , Côte d'Ivoire -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3205 , vital:20411
- Description: Cote d’Ivoire is a country located in West Africa, which is coming out from decades of political and military crises (2002-2011). The country is now coping with its phase of postconflict reconstruction and economic development. One of the important aspects of this phase is the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants who took part in the different conflicts. For this reason the aim of this study was to explore the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire. Taking the aim of this study into consideration, the primary objectives were to first look at the situation of the socioeconomic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire and secondly to identify challenges affecting the socio-economic reintegration process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kpalou, Jean-Yves
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social status -- Côte d'Ivoire , Postwar reconstruction -- Côte d'Ivoire , Côte d'Ivoire -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3205 , vital:20411
- Description: Cote d’Ivoire is a country located in West Africa, which is coming out from decades of political and military crises (2002-2011). The country is now coping with its phase of postconflict reconstruction and economic development. One of the important aspects of this phase is the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants who took part in the different conflicts. For this reason the aim of this study was to explore the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire. Taking the aim of this study into consideration, the primary objectives were to first look at the situation of the socioeconomic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire and secondly to identify challenges affecting the socio-economic reintegration process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the uses of mental skills by competitive road running athletes
- Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Authors: Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Long-distance runners -- Psychology , Long-distance running -- Psychological aspects , Competition (Psychology) , Long-distance running -- Training , Marathon running -- Psychological aspects , Goal (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020310
- Description: Research on athletes has shown that mental skills are an important component of being a successful athlete. The importance of these mental skills is seen in the number of athletes who have formally started training using mental skills training programmes (MST) according to the literature. The study of mental skills in South Africa lags behind other countries like USA, UK and Sweden. This particular study explored the use of mental skills by road running athletes. The study was conducted with six competitive marathon athletes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of an elaborate qualitative methodology design. The data collected from these semi-structured interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The results show that road running athletes use mental skills that include; mental rehearsal, planning, goal setting and self-talk. The athletes in this research showed the importance of mental skills and it is recommended that formal training in these mental skills will be highly beneficial not only to road running athletes but for all South African sports people in general
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Long-distance runners -- Psychology , Long-distance running -- Psychological aspects , Competition (Psychology) , Long-distance running -- Training , Marathon running -- Psychological aspects , Goal (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020310
- Description: Research on athletes has shown that mental skills are an important component of being a successful athlete. The importance of these mental skills is seen in the number of athletes who have formally started training using mental skills training programmes (MST) according to the literature. The study of mental skills in South Africa lags behind other countries like USA, UK and Sweden. This particular study explored the use of mental skills by road running athletes. The study was conducted with six competitive marathon athletes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of an elaborate qualitative methodology design. The data collected from these semi-structured interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The results show that road running athletes use mental skills that include; mental rehearsal, planning, goal setting and self-talk. The athletes in this research showed the importance of mental skills and it is recommended that formal training in these mental skills will be highly beneficial not only to road running athletes but for all South African sports people in general
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring user experience (UX) factors For ICTD services
- Authors: Nyambi, Pride Bongiwe
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11400 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020164
- Description: Consistent with global entities such as the United Nations- through the World Summit of the Information Society (WSIS), introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for human development has seen the introduction of ICT-based services aimed at facilitating socio-economic development of marginalized communities. The use of ICTs has always solicited the concept of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), which involves the methods which humans interact with technology. The types of User Interfaces (UIs) and interaction techniques that people use to interact with ICTs affects the way they perceive technology and eventually, their acceptance of the technology. Current ICT systems still haven‟t adopted the concept of placing the user at the core of the interaction. Users are still required to adapt themselves to the interface‟s characteristics; which limits the number of people who can use the system due to inabilities to adapt to the interface. As a result, the information embedded in these technologies is still inaccessible and useless to Marginalized Rural Area (MRA) users. Such usability challenges can be mitigated against and avoided by matching UI components with the users‟ mental models, language, preferences, needs and other socio-cultural artefacts. In this research, literature in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is reviewed with emphasis on the usability and User Experience (UX) during user interaction with ICTs using various modes of interactions. HCI emphasizes the need for systems to take account of user‟s characteristics such as their abilities, needs, socio-cultural experiences, behaviours and interests. In efforts to meet the requirement of UX, the user, system and the context of use, need to be evaluated, taking into consideration that changing one entity modifies the UX. This will be achieved by persona profiling to determine the key characteristics of the user communities, clustered according to the key UX attributes. Subsequently, through detailed usability evaluations, including the use of System Usability Scale (SUS) to determine user satisfaction with various UI components/techniques per identified persona- thus providing and persona mapping for usability of Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICTD) services. The results from this research are reflective of the importance of creating personas for usability testing. Some of the personas do not have a problem with interacting with most of the interfaces but their choice of interface comes from a preference point of view. For some personas, their skills and level of experience with ICTs motivates their choice of interface. The common UI component that users from across the spectrum appreciate is UI consistency which makes interaction easier and more natural. Common obstacles with current User Interfaces (UIs) that inhibit users from MRAs include the hefty use of text in interfaces, unintuitive navigation structures and the use of a foreign language. Differences in UIs from different application developers present an inconsistency which challenges the users from rural areas. These differences include the layout, the text entry methods and the form of output produced. A solution to this has been identified from the usability test as the use of speech-enabled interfaces in a language that can be understood by the target audience. In addition, through literature study it has been found that UX of interfaces can be improved by the use of less textual or text-free interfaces. Based on literature, users from MRAs can benefit from using hand-writing based UIs for text-based entry which mimics pen and paper environment for literate users who have experience with writing. Finally, the use of numbered options can assist illiterate users in tasks that requires users to choose options and for navigation. Therefore, consistency in UIs designed to be used by MRA users can improve usability of these interfaces and thus, improving the overall UX.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nyambi, Pride Bongiwe
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11400 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020164
- Description: Consistent with global entities such as the United Nations- through the World Summit of the Information Society (WSIS), introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for human development has seen the introduction of ICT-based services aimed at facilitating socio-economic development of marginalized communities. The use of ICTs has always solicited the concept of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), which involves the methods which humans interact with technology. The types of User Interfaces (UIs) and interaction techniques that people use to interact with ICTs affects the way they perceive technology and eventually, their acceptance of the technology. Current ICT systems still haven‟t adopted the concept of placing the user at the core of the interaction. Users are still required to adapt themselves to the interface‟s characteristics; which limits the number of people who can use the system due to inabilities to adapt to the interface. As a result, the information embedded in these technologies is still inaccessible and useless to Marginalized Rural Area (MRA) users. Such usability challenges can be mitigated against and avoided by matching UI components with the users‟ mental models, language, preferences, needs and other socio-cultural artefacts. In this research, literature in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is reviewed with emphasis on the usability and User Experience (UX) during user interaction with ICTs using various modes of interactions. HCI emphasizes the need for systems to take account of user‟s characteristics such as their abilities, needs, socio-cultural experiences, behaviours and interests. In efforts to meet the requirement of UX, the user, system and the context of use, need to be evaluated, taking into consideration that changing one entity modifies the UX. This will be achieved by persona profiling to determine the key characteristics of the user communities, clustered according to the key UX attributes. Subsequently, through detailed usability evaluations, including the use of System Usability Scale (SUS) to determine user satisfaction with various UI components/techniques per identified persona- thus providing and persona mapping for usability of Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICTD) services. The results from this research are reflective of the importance of creating personas for usability testing. Some of the personas do not have a problem with interacting with most of the interfaces but their choice of interface comes from a preference point of view. For some personas, their skills and level of experience with ICTs motivates their choice of interface. The common UI component that users from across the spectrum appreciate is UI consistency which makes interaction easier and more natural. Common obstacles with current User Interfaces (UIs) that inhibit users from MRAs include the hefty use of text in interfaces, unintuitive navigation structures and the use of a foreign language. Differences in UIs from different application developers present an inconsistency which challenges the users from rural areas. These differences include the layout, the text entry methods and the form of output produced. A solution to this has been identified from the usability test as the use of speech-enabled interfaces in a language that can be understood by the target audience. In addition, through literature study it has been found that UX of interfaces can be improved by the use of less textual or text-free interfaces. Based on literature, users from MRAs can benefit from using hand-writing based UIs for text-based entry which mimics pen and paper environment for literate users who have experience with writing. Finally, the use of numbered options can assist illiterate users in tasks that requires users to choose options and for navigation. Therefore, consistency in UIs designed to be used by MRA users can improve usability of these interfaces and thus, improving the overall UX.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015