Best practices to address medical identity theft awareness : the case of South African medical aid members
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
An examination of practices and experiences of teacher educators in the supervision of a national early childhood home based programme
- Authors: Annatolia, Misi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Early childhood education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49362 , vital:41695
- Description: Zimbabwean teacher educators are, by the nature of their job description, required to supervise student teachers doing teaching practicum for the 0-3 home based programme. However, analysis of supervision reports of the home based programme indicates some inconsistencies in comments made by different supervisors, whereby the descriptors and supervision overall scores do not tally. It seems the supervision of the home based teacher education programme is not being implemented as expected. Hence, the purpose of this qualitative case study was to examine practices and experiences of teacher educators in the supervision of a National Early Childhood Development Home Based Teacher Education Programme (NECDHBTEP). The objective of the study was to address the key question: ‘What are the practices and experiences of teacher educators in the supervision of a NECDHBTEP. In addressing the question, the researcher used supervision as a conceptual framework. The theoretical framework which informed the study was Contextual Supervision (CS) which has its philosophical foundations in constructivism, beneficence and justice. Purposive sampling was employed in the study where two primary teachers’ colleges were selected. From each college, ten teacher educators were selected for semi-structured interviews, two focus group discussions and document analysis on teacher educators’ supervision reports. Triangulation of the data was done so as to enhance its trustworthiness. Three major themes emerged from the study, namely, the influence of home context, experience of supervisors on NECDHBTEP and supervision approaches. The study discovered that the home context, to some extent, influences supervision of the NECDHBTEP. The study also established that teacher educators face multiple challenges when supervising student teachers on the ECD home based programme. The researcher made some recommendations from the findings. One of the recommendations was for colleges to develop a specific supervision instrument for the home based ECD supervision (0-3 years category). Furthermore, there is need for Zimbabwean primary teachers’ colleges to engage in rigorous in-service training for lecturers who are not knowledgeable about the NECDHBTEP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Annatolia, Misi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Early childhood education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49362 , vital:41695
- Description: Zimbabwean teacher educators are, by the nature of their job description, required to supervise student teachers doing teaching practicum for the 0-3 home based programme. However, analysis of supervision reports of the home based programme indicates some inconsistencies in comments made by different supervisors, whereby the descriptors and supervision overall scores do not tally. It seems the supervision of the home based teacher education programme is not being implemented as expected. Hence, the purpose of this qualitative case study was to examine practices and experiences of teacher educators in the supervision of a National Early Childhood Development Home Based Teacher Education Programme (NECDHBTEP). The objective of the study was to address the key question: ‘What are the practices and experiences of teacher educators in the supervision of a NECDHBTEP. In addressing the question, the researcher used supervision as a conceptual framework. The theoretical framework which informed the study was Contextual Supervision (CS) which has its philosophical foundations in constructivism, beneficence and justice. Purposive sampling was employed in the study where two primary teachers’ colleges were selected. From each college, ten teacher educators were selected for semi-structured interviews, two focus group discussions and document analysis on teacher educators’ supervision reports. Triangulation of the data was done so as to enhance its trustworthiness. Three major themes emerged from the study, namely, the influence of home context, experience of supervisors on NECDHBTEP and supervision approaches. The study discovered that the home context, to some extent, influences supervision of the NECDHBTEP. The study also established that teacher educators face multiple challenges when supervising student teachers on the ECD home based programme. The researcher made some recommendations from the findings. One of the recommendations was for colleges to develop a specific supervision instrument for the home based ECD supervision (0-3 years category). Furthermore, there is need for Zimbabwean primary teachers’ colleges to engage in rigorous in-service training for lecturers who are not knowledgeable about the NECDHBTEP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Underutilisation of information communication and technology in the building construction industry case study : department of public works in the Amathole district in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Camngca, Vuyokazi Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49407 , vital:41718
- Description: This study investigated the causes and effects of the underutilisation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the building section of the Amathole Region. The construction industry’s daily processes demand both heavy usages of data and data communication between project participants to meet client requirements. This industry is characterised by inaccurate and untimely communications that often result in costly delays and extensions of the project timeframe. ICT is a potential solution to this problem. The objectives of the study are, therefore, to determine why the above, a technically skilled occupational government institution in the Eastern Cape, does not employ ICT efficiently and optimally during this time of the looming global fourth industrial revolution. The literature review detailed the causes of and impact level of ICT’s utilisation and its potential benefits. For data collection, the researcher held unstructured interviews with a Chief Quantity Surveyor, Chief Architect, Engineer, Building Inspectors, and a Quantity Surveyor who dealt directly with construction projects. The key findings revealed that a lack of understanding of existing and newly available ICT software and hardware technology existed amongst certain senior officials within the building technology. The previously alluded, combined with the fear of the inability to learn and apply such new technology, has led to a culture of resistance to change from these more senior officials to utilise applications such as AutoCAD. The above-mentioned resistance, has also triggered the prevention of access to and lack of ICT resources, training, and inadequate funding, thereby eventually resulting in the underutilisation of ICT within the whole building section. This change also adversely affects all officials, especially the junior officials who have graduated using the most recent ICT technology during their studies. The researcher deduced, from the above findings, that adequate change management and continuous development, combined with the allocation of proper resources, would be necessary for all staff members. It was also determined that investments had to be made in the ICT equipment through the provision of a sufficient budget in the building section at AR.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Camngca, Vuyokazi Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49407 , vital:41718
- Description: This study investigated the causes and effects of the underutilisation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the building section of the Amathole Region. The construction industry’s daily processes demand both heavy usages of data and data communication between project participants to meet client requirements. This industry is characterised by inaccurate and untimely communications that often result in costly delays and extensions of the project timeframe. ICT is a potential solution to this problem. The objectives of the study are, therefore, to determine why the above, a technically skilled occupational government institution in the Eastern Cape, does not employ ICT efficiently and optimally during this time of the looming global fourth industrial revolution. The literature review detailed the causes of and impact level of ICT’s utilisation and its potential benefits. For data collection, the researcher held unstructured interviews with a Chief Quantity Surveyor, Chief Architect, Engineer, Building Inspectors, and a Quantity Surveyor who dealt directly with construction projects. The key findings revealed that a lack of understanding of existing and newly available ICT software and hardware technology existed amongst certain senior officials within the building technology. The previously alluded, combined with the fear of the inability to learn and apply such new technology, has led to a culture of resistance to change from these more senior officials to utilise applications such as AutoCAD. The above-mentioned resistance, has also triggered the prevention of access to and lack of ICT resources, training, and inadequate funding, thereby eventually resulting in the underutilisation of ICT within the whole building section. This change also adversely affects all officials, especially the junior officials who have graduated using the most recent ICT technology during their studies. The researcher deduced, from the above findings, that adequate change management and continuous development, combined with the allocation of proper resources, would be necessary for all staff members. It was also determined that investments had to be made in the ICT equipment through the provision of a sufficient budget in the building section at AR.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
First responders’ perceptions of secondary traumatic stress and the screening and referral of trauma survivors at risk of developing posttraumatic stress
- Authors: Chong, Ferhana Ting
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Secondary traumatic stress
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50801 , vital:42702
- Description: The risk of civilians being exposed to a traumatic event in South Africa is relatively high. This also means that several professional helpers termed first responders, will have frequent contact with individuals who have been traumatized. Working with trauma survivors could have both negative and positive outcomes. On the one hand, first responders’ interaction with trauma survivors provide them with the opportunity to detect when a survivor may be at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unfortunately, this exposure also puts them at risk of developing secondary traumatic stress with symptoms like those of the trauma survivors they assist. Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) is relatively well studied among certain helping professions such as therapists, counsellors, social workers and even advocates who work with trauma survivors. Research concerning STS among emergency unit first responders is, however, limited (especially in the South African context). Furthermore, literature investigating emergency unit first responder’s perception of secondary traumatic stress and the screening and referral of trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD in a South African context appears to be non- existent. The current study aimed to explore and describe first responders’ perceptions of STS and the screening and referral of trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD. A qualitative design was employed using semi-structured interview questions. The researcher employed a purposive sampling method. As such, only first responders in the emergency unit of general hospitals who regularly work with trauma survivors will be considered for the current study. The data from the interviews was analyzed using thematic analysis based on the principles proposed by Braun and Clark (2006). The findings from this study indicated that while first responders are at risk of developing STS due to the high frequency exposure to traumatic material, very few considered the effects of working with trauma on their mental health. Furthermore, participants in this study reported having inadequate knowledge of PTSD and did not feel confident in screening for trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD. In addition, participants reported that, while they have previously screened and referred trauma survivors who may be at risk, there was no standard protocol for screening and referring such patients. That being said, the participants did state that should they consider a patient a risk, the hospitals in which they worked did have psychologists on-site.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chong, Ferhana Ting
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Secondary traumatic stress
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50801 , vital:42702
- Description: The risk of civilians being exposed to a traumatic event in South Africa is relatively high. This also means that several professional helpers termed first responders, will have frequent contact with individuals who have been traumatized. Working with trauma survivors could have both negative and positive outcomes. On the one hand, first responders’ interaction with trauma survivors provide them with the opportunity to detect when a survivor may be at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unfortunately, this exposure also puts them at risk of developing secondary traumatic stress with symptoms like those of the trauma survivors they assist. Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) is relatively well studied among certain helping professions such as therapists, counsellors, social workers and even advocates who work with trauma survivors. Research concerning STS among emergency unit first responders is, however, limited (especially in the South African context). Furthermore, literature investigating emergency unit first responder’s perception of secondary traumatic stress and the screening and referral of trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD in a South African context appears to be non- existent. The current study aimed to explore and describe first responders’ perceptions of STS and the screening and referral of trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD. A qualitative design was employed using semi-structured interview questions. The researcher employed a purposive sampling method. As such, only first responders in the emergency unit of general hospitals who regularly work with trauma survivors will be considered for the current study. The data from the interviews was analyzed using thematic analysis based on the principles proposed by Braun and Clark (2006). The findings from this study indicated that while first responders are at risk of developing STS due to the high frequency exposure to traumatic material, very few considered the effects of working with trauma on their mental health. Furthermore, participants in this study reported having inadequate knowledge of PTSD and did not feel confident in screening for trauma survivors at risk of developing PTSD. In addition, participants reported that, while they have previously screened and referred trauma survivors who may be at risk, there was no standard protocol for screening and referring such patients. That being said, the participants did state that should they consider a patient a risk, the hospitals in which they worked did have psychologists on-site.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
Using sound localization to gain depth perception for the visually impaired through sensory substitution
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Technology readiness of public school teachers : a study in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Ebongue, Placide Mbella
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Educational technology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49659 , vital:41766
- Description: Globally, it is well documented that technology integration (Information & Communication Technology) in teaching & learning environments improve educational experiences and outcomes. The information revolution also conditions the global collective to prioritise and invest in education. In South Africa, basic education is increasingly aiming to integrate technology in its teaching and learning processes, as is already common practice in the higher learning environment. Policies and supporting educational legislation must, therefore, be geared to steer teacher training emphasis in this regard, especially for primary schools. To anchor economic developments, important parameters to consider, include the readiness of teachers to use technology in the classroom, measured through the technology readiness index (TRI) and a variety of demographic indices. These reveal trends among teachers and their interaction with learners while delivering subject content in the classroom. In the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) (Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage) area, Eastern Cape, South Africa, 32 schools totalling 70 teachers were evaluated using an online survey, based on a TRI model, initially developed by Parasuraman and later refined by Parasuraman and Colby. Results showed that teachers in the NMBM area have a medium to high technology propensity, with a readiness index score of 3.445 out of five. The demographic analysis also revealed that teachers are optimistic about technology and motivated about making it work in their classroom. These positive indicators towards technology (ICT) adoption encourage economic investments in basic education; however, further study is recommended to investigate implementation (and comparison to other provinces), therefore, informing the specific magnitude and type of investments needed in the Eastern Cape. An implementation model, which promotes ICT policy with a combination of software, hardware and internet access, appropriately incorporated in teaching and learning objectives, is encouraged to promote economic developments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ebongue, Placide Mbella
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Educational technology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49659 , vital:41766
- Description: Globally, it is well documented that technology integration (Information & Communication Technology) in teaching & learning environments improve educational experiences and outcomes. The information revolution also conditions the global collective to prioritise and invest in education. In South Africa, basic education is increasingly aiming to integrate technology in its teaching and learning processes, as is already common practice in the higher learning environment. Policies and supporting educational legislation must, therefore, be geared to steer teacher training emphasis in this regard, especially for primary schools. To anchor economic developments, important parameters to consider, include the readiness of teachers to use technology in the classroom, measured through the technology readiness index (TRI) and a variety of demographic indices. These reveal trends among teachers and their interaction with learners while delivering subject content in the classroom. In the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) (Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage) area, Eastern Cape, South Africa, 32 schools totalling 70 teachers were evaluated using an online survey, based on a TRI model, initially developed by Parasuraman and later refined by Parasuraman and Colby. Results showed that teachers in the NMBM area have a medium to high technology propensity, with a readiness index score of 3.445 out of five. The demographic analysis also revealed that teachers are optimistic about technology and motivated about making it work in their classroom. These positive indicators towards technology (ICT) adoption encourage economic investments in basic education; however, further study is recommended to investigate implementation (and comparison to other provinces), therefore, informing the specific magnitude and type of investments needed in the Eastern Cape. An implementation model, which promotes ICT policy with a combination of software, hardware and internet access, appropriately incorporated in teaching and learning objectives, is encouraged to promote economic developments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Examining the effect of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity on Work Engagement and Innovation on South African Organisations
- Authors: Efalao, D M
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48202 , vital:40520
- Description: The biggest strengths of organisational success lie in its employees; therefore, employee engagement is a fundamental force that is linked to organisational effectiveness and success. The level of employee engagement in South Africa according to the polls remains very low. On the other front, innovative ideas prove to be a vital element of organisational innovativeness and progress. Today’s business environment is unstable and to remain relevant in the marketplace, it is imperative for organisations to embrace innovation and become responsive to changing customer needs. South Africa’s population is very diverse coming second in diversity after the United States. The diversity of South Africa as a national endowment could be investigated to see if it could be leveraged to improve organisational innovation and effectiveness through work engagement. Being mindful of the fact that being diverse is not equal to being inclusive, inclusion is also investigated to see its effect on work engagement and organisational innovation. The principle of fairness (equity) was also investigated with relation to engagement and innovation. The purpose of the study is to assist organisations to improve employee engagement and organisational innovation by taking advantage of the national factor endowment of diversity and inclusion. Equity is investigated as an important principle that could possibly have an effect on employee engagement or organisational innovation. The findings were that diversity and inclusion have a significant relationship with employee engagement and organisational innovativeness while equity has a significant relationship with organisational innovativeness. Recommendations were therefore made to leaders of the organisations to embrace workforce diversity, inclusion and fairness in organisational structures and practices in order to realise improved employee engagement and organisational innovativeness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Efalao, D M
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48202 , vital:40520
- Description: The biggest strengths of organisational success lie in its employees; therefore, employee engagement is a fundamental force that is linked to organisational effectiveness and success. The level of employee engagement in South Africa according to the polls remains very low. On the other front, innovative ideas prove to be a vital element of organisational innovativeness and progress. Today’s business environment is unstable and to remain relevant in the marketplace, it is imperative for organisations to embrace innovation and become responsive to changing customer needs. South Africa’s population is very diverse coming second in diversity after the United States. The diversity of South Africa as a national endowment could be investigated to see if it could be leveraged to improve organisational innovation and effectiveness through work engagement. Being mindful of the fact that being diverse is not equal to being inclusive, inclusion is also investigated to see its effect on work engagement and organisational innovation. The principle of fairness (equity) was also investigated with relation to engagement and innovation. The purpose of the study is to assist organisations to improve employee engagement and organisational innovation by taking advantage of the national factor endowment of diversity and inclusion. Equity is investigated as an important principle that could possibly have an effect on employee engagement or organisational innovation. The findings were that diversity and inclusion have a significant relationship with employee engagement and organisational innovativeness while equity has a significant relationship with organisational innovativeness. Recommendations were therefore made to leaders of the organisations to embrace workforce diversity, inclusion and fairness in organisational structures and practices in order to realise improved employee engagement and organisational innovativeness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Aileen wuornos : a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Fakude, Shuanize Xiluva
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Women serial murderers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50789 , vital:42700
- Description: A psychobiographical study is an exploration of a unique individual’s entire lived life through a psychological lens. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the personality development of Aileen Wuornos within her socio-historical context by applying Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development. Aileen Carol Wuornos was an American serial killer who murdered seven men in Florida between 1989 and 1990 by shooting them at point blank range. Wuornos’s life was marked by a difficult formative environment, maternal abandonment, and adoption by her grandparents. Wuornos continued to experience physical, emotional and sexual abuse at the hands of family members, friends and the community. Wuornos lived her life focusing on survival, and started to engage with petty crime and prostitution to do so. Her patterns escalated to include more serious criminal behaviour, culminating in serial murder. Wuornos was selected for this study using nonpropability purposive sampling. She was selected based on the researcher’s curiosity of her life events and experiences that led her to commit serial murders. Data was collected through a variety of primary and secondary sources on Wuornos and it was analysed using Miles and Huberman’s three steps process of data analysis, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings of this study indicate that Wuornos experiences severe difficulties in renegotiating the seven stages proposed by Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development, and all the ego strengths that she developed were seriously delayed.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Fakude, Shuanize Xiluva
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Women serial murderers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50789 , vital:42700
- Description: A psychobiographical study is an exploration of a unique individual’s entire lived life through a psychological lens. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the personality development of Aileen Wuornos within her socio-historical context by applying Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development. Aileen Carol Wuornos was an American serial killer who murdered seven men in Florida between 1989 and 1990 by shooting them at point blank range. Wuornos’s life was marked by a difficult formative environment, maternal abandonment, and adoption by her grandparents. Wuornos continued to experience physical, emotional and sexual abuse at the hands of family members, friends and the community. Wuornos lived her life focusing on survival, and started to engage with petty crime and prostitution to do so. Her patterns escalated to include more serious criminal behaviour, culminating in serial murder. Wuornos was selected for this study using nonpropability purposive sampling. She was selected based on the researcher’s curiosity of her life events and experiences that led her to commit serial murders. Data was collected through a variety of primary and secondary sources on Wuornos and it was analysed using Miles and Huberman’s three steps process of data analysis, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings of this study indicate that Wuornos experiences severe difficulties in renegotiating the seven stages proposed by Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development, and all the ego strengths that she developed were seriously delayed.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
The influence of online service quality on future purchasing intent
- Authors: Gelderbloem, Kirsten
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48114 , vital:40490
- Description: The rapid advancements in technology has seen a growing shift in retail industry trends, with many retailers establishing online shopping platforms. Though online shopping was initially more popular in other parts of the world, it is fast becoming more popular in South Africa. Many South Africans are now starting to feel more comfortable with the experience, convenience and benefits of online shopping and thus it is important for researchers and experts to gain a better understanding of customers’ experiences in this regard. Furthermore, customer service and quality of service in the online shopping space tends to be relatively different to customer service and quality experienced at a traditional retail store. Therefore, understanding customer service and quality of service within the online retail space is also a critical area to be researched. The aim of this study is thus is to assist retailers and managers to better understand customer service quality of online shopping platforms and how these online shopping platforms perform in terms of its reliability, assurance, tangibility, empathy, and responsiveness dimensions of service quality. An empirical study, consisting of a questionnaire was conducted amongst 88 South African males and females from the various generational cohorts who utilise online shopping platforms. Furthermore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the service quality experiences of customers who make use of online shopping platforms. The key findings indicated that reliability, tangibility and empathy are the key determinants affecting a customer’s intention to purchase from an online shopping platform. Furthermore, recommendations were made to retailers and managers to consistently focus on remaining reliable in terms of delivering goods as promised; accepting returns and offering refunds, as well as maintaining accurate client and product information; consistently striving towards providing exceptional tangible experiences, such as maintaining a visually appealing website that is easy to navigate, safe and secure to conduct transactions and, to always ensure that customer service agents show empathy towards to their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Gelderbloem, Kirsten
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48114 , vital:40490
- Description: The rapid advancements in technology has seen a growing shift in retail industry trends, with many retailers establishing online shopping platforms. Though online shopping was initially more popular in other parts of the world, it is fast becoming more popular in South Africa. Many South Africans are now starting to feel more comfortable with the experience, convenience and benefits of online shopping and thus it is important for researchers and experts to gain a better understanding of customers’ experiences in this regard. Furthermore, customer service and quality of service in the online shopping space tends to be relatively different to customer service and quality experienced at a traditional retail store. Therefore, understanding customer service and quality of service within the online retail space is also a critical area to be researched. The aim of this study is thus is to assist retailers and managers to better understand customer service quality of online shopping platforms and how these online shopping platforms perform in terms of its reliability, assurance, tangibility, empathy, and responsiveness dimensions of service quality. An empirical study, consisting of a questionnaire was conducted amongst 88 South African males and females from the various generational cohorts who utilise online shopping platforms. Furthermore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the service quality experiences of customers who make use of online shopping platforms. The key findings indicated that reliability, tangibility and empathy are the key determinants affecting a customer’s intention to purchase from an online shopping platform. Furthermore, recommendations were made to retailers and managers to consistently focus on remaining reliable in terms of delivering goods as promised; accepting returns and offering refunds, as well as maintaining accurate client and product information; consistently striving towards providing exceptional tangible experiences, such as maintaining a visually appealing website that is easy to navigate, safe and secure to conduct transactions and, to always ensure that customer service agents show empathy towards to their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The relationship between workplace trust, work engagement and turnover intentions
- Authors: Gouws, Rumelda Hendrieka
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Manufacturing industries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Mcom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48124 , vital:40494
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to investigate whether relationships exist between workplace trust, work engagement and turnover intentions. Moreover, it also investigated the significant demographical differences of the constructs. This study is of a positive psychology paradigm and primarily non-experimental cross-sectional and correlational in nature. The participants were from the workforce of a large manufacturing organisation (n=568) within the Eastern Cape. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the aid of self-administered standardised paper-and-pencil questionnaires, which incorporated the Workplace Trust Survey, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and the Turnover Intentions Scale. Only instruments that showed construct validity and reliability were used. The necessary steps were taken to ensure that plagiarism, bias, data manipulation and physical and/or emotional harm was avoided, whereas confidentiality and anonymity were maintained. Only 140 questionnaires were returned, from which only 104 were fully completed. Data analysis and interpretation were performed with the aid of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis methods. Pearson’s product-moment correlations were used to determine statistically significant relationships between the constructs. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post-hoc tests were used to determine significant demographical differences between the constructs. It was found that all three measuring instruments had Cronbach’s alpha scores above 0.80, indicating good internal reliability and validity. The findings of the study identified a number of correlations between the constructs and their factors. It was found that a positive relationship exists between workplace trust and work engagement, as well as between the factors of both these constructs. A negative relationship was found between turnover intentions and both workplace trust and work engagement and their respective factors. Significant demographical differences were found for gender on the workplace trust scale, and two of its factors (trust in the organisation and in the immediate manager), and vigour. In addition to this, significant demographical differences were found for race on the workplace trust scale and two of its factors, namely trust in the organisation and in the immediate manager. This research study’s findings made a valuable contribution to the field of workplace trust, work engagement, turnover intentions and the manufacturing environment. The results of this study hold important implications for the organisation in question and provide a platform for future research studies. This study aids in better understanding the relationships between the constructs and their variables, to formulate better retention and enhancement strategies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Gouws, Rumelda Hendrieka
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Manufacturing industries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Mcom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48124 , vital:40494
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to investigate whether relationships exist between workplace trust, work engagement and turnover intentions. Moreover, it also investigated the significant demographical differences of the constructs. This study is of a positive psychology paradigm and primarily non-experimental cross-sectional and correlational in nature. The participants were from the workforce of a large manufacturing organisation (n=568) within the Eastern Cape. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the aid of self-administered standardised paper-and-pencil questionnaires, which incorporated the Workplace Trust Survey, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and the Turnover Intentions Scale. Only instruments that showed construct validity and reliability were used. The necessary steps were taken to ensure that plagiarism, bias, data manipulation and physical and/or emotional harm was avoided, whereas confidentiality and anonymity were maintained. Only 140 questionnaires were returned, from which only 104 were fully completed. Data analysis and interpretation were performed with the aid of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis methods. Pearson’s product-moment correlations were used to determine statistically significant relationships between the constructs. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post-hoc tests were used to determine significant demographical differences between the constructs. It was found that all three measuring instruments had Cronbach’s alpha scores above 0.80, indicating good internal reliability and validity. The findings of the study identified a number of correlations between the constructs and their factors. It was found that a positive relationship exists between workplace trust and work engagement, as well as between the factors of both these constructs. A negative relationship was found between turnover intentions and both workplace trust and work engagement and their respective factors. Significant demographical differences were found for gender on the workplace trust scale, and two of its factors (trust in the organisation and in the immediate manager), and vigour. In addition to this, significant demographical differences were found for race on the workplace trust scale and two of its factors, namely trust in the organisation and in the immediate manager. This research study’s findings made a valuable contribution to the field of workplace trust, work engagement, turnover intentions and the manufacturing environment. The results of this study hold important implications for the organisation in question and provide a platform for future research studies. This study aids in better understanding the relationships between the constructs and their variables, to formulate better retention and enhancement strategies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme
- Authors: Greyling, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical fitness--Soccer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50795 , vital:42701
- Description: Background: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide with an estimated 270 million people involved in the sport. Soccer is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires physical capabilities such as speed, agility, strength, power, aerobic and anaerobic fitness in addition to technical proficiency. Most goals are preceded by a linear sprint, jump or change of direction which is why the ability to perform fast powerful movements is important. Research has indicated that resistance training performed in combination with high intensity speed and plyometric training, improves athletic performance of soccer players. Aims and Objectives: This study investigated the effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme in Addo in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach in the form of a quasi-experimental design with an experimental and control group. The sample was conveniently selected based on availability of players and on them meeting specific inclusion criteria. Local soccer clubs in the Nomathamsanqa township - an impoverished area in Addo, which forms part of the Addo Soccer Development Programme (ASDP) - were invited to participate in the study. The final sample for this study consisted of 12 participants. A 10-week soccer-based resistance training intervention, addressing the components of physical fitness with specific emphasis on resistance training, was implemented after completion of the baseline testing. The intervention was designed to be suitable for a rural setting. Results: Within group comparisons revealed significant improvements in the experimental group for power (p = 0.028), speed (p = 0.028) and overall performance (grouped physical fitness measures) (p = 0.018) whereas the control group improved significantly in speed (p = 0.043) and regressed significantly in cardiovascular endurance (p = 0.043). Between group comparisons revealed significant differences for overall performance improvement in the experimental group (p = 0.006) and a reduction in cardiovascular endurance in the control group (p = 0.028). The main finding of this study is therefore this: that the individual parameters did not show consistent improvement when viewed in isolation, however that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance when all the physical fitness measures were computed as a collective result. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance however more research is required on soccer in rural and disadvantaged settings of South Africa to develop a convincing model for supplementary training other than conventional soccer practice to improve performance and to overcome the unique challenges faced in a rural setting.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Greyling, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical fitness--Soccer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50795 , vital:42701
- Description: Background: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide with an estimated 270 million people involved in the sport. Soccer is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires physical capabilities such as speed, agility, strength, power, aerobic and anaerobic fitness in addition to technical proficiency. Most goals are preceded by a linear sprint, jump or change of direction which is why the ability to perform fast powerful movements is important. Research has indicated that resistance training performed in combination with high intensity speed and plyometric training, improves athletic performance of soccer players. Aims and Objectives: This study investigated the effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme in Addo in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach in the form of a quasi-experimental design with an experimental and control group. The sample was conveniently selected based on availability of players and on them meeting specific inclusion criteria. Local soccer clubs in the Nomathamsanqa township - an impoverished area in Addo, which forms part of the Addo Soccer Development Programme (ASDP) - were invited to participate in the study. The final sample for this study consisted of 12 participants. A 10-week soccer-based resistance training intervention, addressing the components of physical fitness with specific emphasis on resistance training, was implemented after completion of the baseline testing. The intervention was designed to be suitable for a rural setting. Results: Within group comparisons revealed significant improvements in the experimental group for power (p = 0.028), speed (p = 0.028) and overall performance (grouped physical fitness measures) (p = 0.018) whereas the control group improved significantly in speed (p = 0.043) and regressed significantly in cardiovascular endurance (p = 0.043). Between group comparisons revealed significant differences for overall performance improvement in the experimental group (p = 0.006) and a reduction in cardiovascular endurance in the control group (p = 0.028). The main finding of this study is therefore this: that the individual parameters did not show consistent improvement when viewed in isolation, however that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance when all the physical fitness measures were computed as a collective result. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance however more research is required on soccer in rural and disadvantaged settings of South Africa to develop a convincing model for supplementary training other than conventional soccer practice to improve performance and to overcome the unique challenges faced in a rural setting.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
Organisational influences and the effects on female advancement within a South African technology organisation
- Authors: Hare, Claire Kim
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Women in technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48136 , vital:40503
- Description: The underrepresentation of females within various sectors, specifically the technology industry, remains a concern. Even though there is progression regarding the representation of women in the technology industry, females and other diverse groups are still underrepresented within the IT workforce. Globally, women make up only 25% of technology workers and only 23% of technology workers in South Africa are female. The underrepresentation of women in technology jobs results in the industry lacking an immense amount of brainpower and the potential for innovation. Against this background, the primary objective of this study was to identify the impact that the organisational influences i.e. leadership, organisational culture, barriers and organisational change management has on the advancement of females within a technology organisation. This study was conducted within a South African technology organisation located within the Eastern Cape region. A quantitative approach was adopted, and purposive sampling was used to draw the sample of approximately three hundred personnel, including all managers and employees, within the South African technology organisation for this study. Various findings emerged in terms of the research questions about whether the organisational influences of leadership, organisational culture, barriers and organisational change management has an impact on the advancement of females within the technology organisation. The empirical results revealed that leadership and organisational change management have the strongest positive influence on the advancement of females within the organisation. A key finding within this study is that leadership within the organisation does not promote female advancement. Since literature suggests that leadership is instrumental in shaping the organisational culture of an organisation, the focus of the organisation should be on equipping leadership with the knowledge and skills to influence the rest of the organisation regarding gender equality. An additional recommendation is that the women who currently occupy leadership positions within the organisation could mentor other females to overcome or cope with prejudice and gender experienced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Hare, Claire Kim
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Women in technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48136 , vital:40503
- Description: The underrepresentation of females within various sectors, specifically the technology industry, remains a concern. Even though there is progression regarding the representation of women in the technology industry, females and other diverse groups are still underrepresented within the IT workforce. Globally, women make up only 25% of technology workers and only 23% of technology workers in South Africa are female. The underrepresentation of women in technology jobs results in the industry lacking an immense amount of brainpower and the potential for innovation. Against this background, the primary objective of this study was to identify the impact that the organisational influences i.e. leadership, organisational culture, barriers and organisational change management has on the advancement of females within a technology organisation. This study was conducted within a South African technology organisation located within the Eastern Cape region. A quantitative approach was adopted, and purposive sampling was used to draw the sample of approximately three hundred personnel, including all managers and employees, within the South African technology organisation for this study. Various findings emerged in terms of the research questions about whether the organisational influences of leadership, organisational culture, barriers and organisational change management has an impact on the advancement of females within the technology organisation. The empirical results revealed that leadership and organisational change management have the strongest positive influence on the advancement of females within the organisation. A key finding within this study is that leadership within the organisation does not promote female advancement. Since literature suggests that leadership is instrumental in shaping the organisational culture of an organisation, the focus of the organisation should be on equipping leadership with the knowledge and skills to influence the rest of the organisation regarding gender equality. An additional recommendation is that the women who currently occupy leadership positions within the organisation could mentor other females to overcome or cope with prejudice and gender experienced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The preparedness of the insurance industry for industry 4.0 in the Republic of South Africa (RSA) towards 2030
- Authors: Haribans, Sarika
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Insurance companies -- South Africa Industrial revolution -- Insurance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48147 , vital:40511
- Description: The exponential growth of technology over the past few years has given rise to the term Industry 4.0. The term Industry 4.0 has since gained increasing relevance and importance. Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF) emphasised that the world is on the verge of a technological revolution that will profoundly alter the way we live, work and relate to one another; and that the scale, scope and complexity of the transformation will be unlike anything humankind has experienced before (Schwab, 2016). Industry 4.0 is said to be unlike the previous three industrial revolutions, it is a distinct one of speed, extent and systems impact, characterised by a major disruption to all sectors of business, governments and individuals globally. Industry’s such as insurance, is considered conservative and slow to change, as such the industry has never been quick to adapt to technological advancements. One thing however, that is certain about Industry 4.0 and predicted by many, is its significant impact on jobs in the world as robotics; automation and artificial intelligence become more abundant. This phenomenon has a direct impact on South Africa, which is currently strained by challenges such as infrastructure constraints, political instability, high levels of unemployment, rising costs, and shortages of skills, the loss of further jobs should raise an alarm of concern for government and the private sector alike. The outcomes of the extensive analysis of future studies practice and theory in this research study gives credibility to the argument that the manner in which planning is taking place for the future of the Industry 4.0 in the South African insurance industry context, requires significant adjustments. Business is encouraged to make collaborative decisions and fashion strategies that are founded on and informed by futures studies as this involves the development of fresh insight, fundamental to the planning process. This research attempted to gain insight into the possible future of the South African insurance industry through the creation of four scenarios towards 2030. These are outlined as follows: Insurance innovators and expansionists, which is the ‘best case’ scenario, to which the country aspires; The divide, the ‘worst case’ scenario, in which everything takes a negative turn; The uninsurable, the outlier future based on a surprise future centred on a disruptive emerging area; and Sitting this one out, in which no change takes place, making it ‘business as usual’. The research further undertook to discover the preferred future for the insurance industry in the South African context, as a basis for the Future Vision of the insurance industry of South Africa towards 2030. Inayatullah’s (2008) six pillars of futures studies was employed as an instrument to to guide the mapping of the present and future, further deepening and broadening the future through the development of scenarios, and, finally, transforming the future by narrowing it down to the preferred. In order to achieve the preferred, Future Vision of the insurance industry of South Africa towards 2030 is up to the insurance industry of South Africa, in collaboration with public and private sectors to determine the path to be followed in the decisions surrounding the embrace, acceptance and implementation of Industry 4.0 for the greater good of all, as the country moves towards progression, financial inclusion and sustainable development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Haribans, Sarika
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Insurance companies -- South Africa Industrial revolution -- Insurance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48147 , vital:40511
- Description: The exponential growth of technology over the past few years has given rise to the term Industry 4.0. The term Industry 4.0 has since gained increasing relevance and importance. Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF) emphasised that the world is on the verge of a technological revolution that will profoundly alter the way we live, work and relate to one another; and that the scale, scope and complexity of the transformation will be unlike anything humankind has experienced before (Schwab, 2016). Industry 4.0 is said to be unlike the previous three industrial revolutions, it is a distinct one of speed, extent and systems impact, characterised by a major disruption to all sectors of business, governments and individuals globally. Industry’s such as insurance, is considered conservative and slow to change, as such the industry has never been quick to adapt to technological advancements. One thing however, that is certain about Industry 4.0 and predicted by many, is its significant impact on jobs in the world as robotics; automation and artificial intelligence become more abundant. This phenomenon has a direct impact on South Africa, which is currently strained by challenges such as infrastructure constraints, political instability, high levels of unemployment, rising costs, and shortages of skills, the loss of further jobs should raise an alarm of concern for government and the private sector alike. The outcomes of the extensive analysis of future studies practice and theory in this research study gives credibility to the argument that the manner in which planning is taking place for the future of the Industry 4.0 in the South African insurance industry context, requires significant adjustments. Business is encouraged to make collaborative decisions and fashion strategies that are founded on and informed by futures studies as this involves the development of fresh insight, fundamental to the planning process. This research attempted to gain insight into the possible future of the South African insurance industry through the creation of four scenarios towards 2030. These are outlined as follows: Insurance innovators and expansionists, which is the ‘best case’ scenario, to which the country aspires; The divide, the ‘worst case’ scenario, in which everything takes a negative turn; The uninsurable, the outlier future based on a surprise future centred on a disruptive emerging area; and Sitting this one out, in which no change takes place, making it ‘business as usual’. The research further undertook to discover the preferred future for the insurance industry in the South African context, as a basis for the Future Vision of the insurance industry of South Africa towards 2030. Inayatullah’s (2008) six pillars of futures studies was employed as an instrument to to guide the mapping of the present and future, further deepening and broadening the future through the development of scenarios, and, finally, transforming the future by narrowing it down to the preferred. In order to achieve the preferred, Future Vision of the insurance industry of South Africa towards 2030 is up to the insurance industry of South Africa, in collaboration with public and private sectors to determine the path to be followed in the decisions surrounding the embrace, acceptance and implementation of Industry 4.0 for the greater good of all, as the country moves towards progression, financial inclusion and sustainable development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A critical analysis of the administrative issues related to the Health Promotion Levy in South Africa
- Authors: Herbst, Tamryn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48158 , vital:40515
- Description: The purpose of the treatise was to examine the administrative issues that have arisen related to the implementation of the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) in South Africa, and to identify solutions to these issues. The study commenced with a review of what the HPL is and how it is levied. This was followed by a comparative analysis of issues that have been experienced by four countries, as well as any potential issues that have been identified by the four countries. The HPL is often referred to as sugar tax in many jurisdictions, and was referred to as HPL for the purposes of this treatise. A review was then performed of the solutions that were implemented by these countries in responding to the administrative issues that were identified, as well as guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation for the implementation of this levy. The likelihood of these issues arising in South Africa’s implementation of the Health Promotion Levy was examined based on these comparisons. It was found that the issues experienced by other countries in the implementation of the HPL have been experienced in South Africa, or may be relevant in a South African context. Following this, the solutions implemented by other countries and recommended by the World Health Organisation were analysed to determine if these solutions are practical in a South African context. Many of the solutions implemented by the countries analysed, are relevant in a South African context and have, in fact, already been implemented in South Africa The conclusion reached was that South Africa has been successful in administering the implementation of the HPL and that the administrative costs of the implementation and administration of the HPL are outweighed by the benefits of the health awareness raised by the implementation of the HPL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Herbst, Tamryn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48158 , vital:40515
- Description: The purpose of the treatise was to examine the administrative issues that have arisen related to the implementation of the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) in South Africa, and to identify solutions to these issues. The study commenced with a review of what the HPL is and how it is levied. This was followed by a comparative analysis of issues that have been experienced by four countries, as well as any potential issues that have been identified by the four countries. The HPL is often referred to as sugar tax in many jurisdictions, and was referred to as HPL for the purposes of this treatise. A review was then performed of the solutions that were implemented by these countries in responding to the administrative issues that were identified, as well as guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation for the implementation of this levy. The likelihood of these issues arising in South Africa’s implementation of the Health Promotion Levy was examined based on these comparisons. It was found that the issues experienced by other countries in the implementation of the HPL have been experienced in South Africa, or may be relevant in a South African context. Following this, the solutions implemented by other countries and recommended by the World Health Organisation were analysed to determine if these solutions are practical in a South African context. Many of the solutions implemented by the countries analysed, are relevant in a South African context and have, in fact, already been implemented in South Africa The conclusion reached was that South Africa has been successful in administering the implementation of the HPL and that the administrative costs of the implementation and administration of the HPL are outweighed by the benefits of the health awareness raised by the implementation of the HPL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Psychological capital and work engagement of employees at a training academy
- Authors: Jacobs, Carel-Theron
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Work environment -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48169 , vital:40517
- Description: Having an engaged workforce gives an organisation a competitive advantage. Levels of work engagement are influenced by, amongst other factors, Psychological Capital (PsyCap). The main aim of this study is to determine the influence of PsyCap on the levels of work engagement of employees at a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. This study employed a descriptive quantitative research approach with a cross-sectional correlational design. A composite paper-and-pencil questionnaire was distributed to all employees at the TVET college. The questionnaire consisted of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and PsyCap Questionnaire (PCQ). Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample (n =195). The relationship between the two variables was analysed using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis predicted the value of engagement based on the value of PsyCap. The study confirms previous findings that indicate that PsyCap is positively related work engagement and that work engament can predict PsyCap.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Jacobs, Carel-Theron
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Work environment -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48169 , vital:40517
- Description: Having an engaged workforce gives an organisation a competitive advantage. Levels of work engagement are influenced by, amongst other factors, Psychological Capital (PsyCap). The main aim of this study is to determine the influence of PsyCap on the levels of work engagement of employees at a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. This study employed a descriptive quantitative research approach with a cross-sectional correlational design. A composite paper-and-pencil questionnaire was distributed to all employees at the TVET college. The questionnaire consisted of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and PsyCap Questionnaire (PCQ). Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample (n =195). The relationship between the two variables was analysed using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis predicted the value of engagement based on the value of PsyCap. The study confirms previous findings that indicate that PsyCap is positively related work engagement and that work engament can predict PsyCap.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
An analysis of South Africa’s readiness for analogue to digital terrestrial television migration by July, 2020
- Authors: Jikela, Qaqamba
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Digital television -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48180 , vital:40518
- Description: The 2006 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio World Conference treaty concluded that all countries should migrate from analogue to digital terrestrial television by June 2015, starting with region one countries, comprising Africa, Europe, the Middle East and the Republic of Iran (Agona & Otim, 2012). South Africa, as part of region one, developed a migration policy, Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) regulations, and initiated a process of migrating from Analogue Terrestrial Television (ATT) to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) to meet the deadline. South Africa, however, missed the June 2015 deadline due to a number of challenges, including a lack of infrastructure readiness, South African citizens’ unawareness and government politics, and the deadline has since been extended by ITU to July, 2020 (African Telecommunications Union, 2018). The purpose of this research is to explore the technology adoption model (TAM) to address challenges associated with digital terrestrial television migration, and analyse the readiness of South Africa to migrate. TAM is a model used by researchers to understand the behavior and perception of users in new technology adoption (Fayad & Paper, 2015). Quantitative research is conducted to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The research was undertaken through the use of an online questionnaire with a sample of South African citizen's. A sample of 60 -150 citizens, comprising middle and senior managers of the broadcasting industry was used for the purpose of this research. Digital television offers many benefits for broadcasters, network operators, spectrum regulators, and consumers. In most countries, the transition was slower than expected, even though most European countries managed to migrate. The digital migration is not an easy transition and analogue switch-off can also be much more difficult. Studies have shown that analogue switch off (ASO) needs to be carefully planned and well budgeted for, and it also needs a good publicity campaign which must involve all relevant stakeholders, such as broadcasters, viewers, manufacturers, network operators, manufacturers and retailers. Even though studies conducted previously identified obstacles of digital migration to include; a) lack of awareness b) lack of information, c) influence of politics and d) influence of corruptLack of information and influence of corruption seem to have strong correlation with DTT migration, so these are areas that need additional attention. Studies have shown that the African continent is struggling with meeting the digital migration deadline and is progressing very slowly. It is therefore advisable for the African continent to do a thorough analysis of how other countries managed to migrate successfully. Most African countries are struggling with the migration of television broadcasting from analogue terrestrial television to digital terrestrial television. This is caused mainly by lack of information and lack of awareness. Even though most South African people have heard about digital terrestrial television, they are not equipped for the migration. To sensitise viewers, as major stakeholders of digital migration, will play an important role. It is important that the South African Government should get a buy in from all relevant stakeholders as soon as possible. Broadcasters, including the national signal broadcaster (SABC), community broadcaster, commercial broadcasters, Sentech LTD and government should coordinate in establishing vigorous DTT awareness campaigns to educate viewers. These will encourage buy in from viewers and, as a result, drive dual illumination costs down, saving the county money. South Africa need to fast-track the implementation of digital migration to prevent incurring financial losses due to supporting two terrestrial television networks. Even though studies show that most challenges associated with digital migration are common throughout the world. It would, therefore, be logical for South Africa to take the best practices from developed countries that have successfully migrated and are already broadcasting in digital. Lastly, digital terrestrial television migration is dependent on set-up box approval, manufacturing and affordability. In order to ensure that set-up box prices are affordable for South African consumers, it is recommended that these boxes must be 100% manufactured in South Africa. This will drive costs down and ensure good, total quality assurance. It will also mean that the required skills are developed and maintained locally to position South Africa better for future technology developments. Successful digital television migration would be a great milestone for South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Jikela, Qaqamba
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Digital television -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48180 , vital:40518
- Description: The 2006 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio World Conference treaty concluded that all countries should migrate from analogue to digital terrestrial television by June 2015, starting with region one countries, comprising Africa, Europe, the Middle East and the Republic of Iran (Agona & Otim, 2012). South Africa, as part of region one, developed a migration policy, Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) regulations, and initiated a process of migrating from Analogue Terrestrial Television (ATT) to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) to meet the deadline. South Africa, however, missed the June 2015 deadline due to a number of challenges, including a lack of infrastructure readiness, South African citizens’ unawareness and government politics, and the deadline has since been extended by ITU to July, 2020 (African Telecommunications Union, 2018). The purpose of this research is to explore the technology adoption model (TAM) to address challenges associated with digital terrestrial television migration, and analyse the readiness of South Africa to migrate. TAM is a model used by researchers to understand the behavior and perception of users in new technology adoption (Fayad & Paper, 2015). Quantitative research is conducted to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The research was undertaken through the use of an online questionnaire with a sample of South African citizen's. A sample of 60 -150 citizens, comprising middle and senior managers of the broadcasting industry was used for the purpose of this research. Digital television offers many benefits for broadcasters, network operators, spectrum regulators, and consumers. In most countries, the transition was slower than expected, even though most European countries managed to migrate. The digital migration is not an easy transition and analogue switch-off can also be much more difficult. Studies have shown that analogue switch off (ASO) needs to be carefully planned and well budgeted for, and it also needs a good publicity campaign which must involve all relevant stakeholders, such as broadcasters, viewers, manufacturers, network operators, manufacturers and retailers. Even though studies conducted previously identified obstacles of digital migration to include; a) lack of awareness b) lack of information, c) influence of politics and d) influence of corruptLack of information and influence of corruption seem to have strong correlation with DTT migration, so these are areas that need additional attention. Studies have shown that the African continent is struggling with meeting the digital migration deadline and is progressing very slowly. It is therefore advisable for the African continent to do a thorough analysis of how other countries managed to migrate successfully. Most African countries are struggling with the migration of television broadcasting from analogue terrestrial television to digital terrestrial television. This is caused mainly by lack of information and lack of awareness. Even though most South African people have heard about digital terrestrial television, they are not equipped for the migration. To sensitise viewers, as major stakeholders of digital migration, will play an important role. It is important that the South African Government should get a buy in from all relevant stakeholders as soon as possible. Broadcasters, including the national signal broadcaster (SABC), community broadcaster, commercial broadcasters, Sentech LTD and government should coordinate in establishing vigorous DTT awareness campaigns to educate viewers. These will encourage buy in from viewers and, as a result, drive dual illumination costs down, saving the county money. South Africa need to fast-track the implementation of digital migration to prevent incurring financial losses due to supporting two terrestrial television networks. Even though studies show that most challenges associated with digital migration are common throughout the world. It would, therefore, be logical for South Africa to take the best practices from developed countries that have successfully migrated and are already broadcasting in digital. Lastly, digital terrestrial television migration is dependent on set-up box approval, manufacturing and affordability. In order to ensure that set-up box prices are affordable for South African consumers, it is recommended that these boxes must be 100% manufactured in South Africa. This will drive costs down and ensure good, total quality assurance. It will also mean that the required skills are developed and maintained locally to position South Africa better for future technology developments. Successful digital television migration would be a great milestone for South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Strategic Model to Promote University of Choice Decisions among International Students Studying in South Africa
- Authors: Jooste, Carlien
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Internationalism -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48191 , vital:40519
- Description: The internationalisation of higher education has become an inevitable focus in the modern day higher education sector. This focus is due to the interconnectedness of society, which is driven by globalisation. The ever-changing landscape of the current global higher education sector has further placed emphasis on self-funding and the corporatisation of higher education institutions (HEIs). This has created competitiveness in the sector for local and international students, which has led to institutions globally and in South Africa, being tasked with the responsibility of being agents of internationalisation. The concept of higher education internationalisation involves internationalisation of the curriculum, cross-continental partnerships, the increase in mobility of staff and students, educational programmes, innovative ways of delivery as well as the need to be globally competitive. Students themselves view international study important as it provides them with a global outlook and international experience. The increased competitiveness in the higher education sector and the need for HEIs to become more autonomous and self-funded, has amplified the need to recruit international students who generate additional income. Furthermore, the strategy to recruit international students has evolved and transformed into a customer-driven strategy to meet the needs of the knowledge economy. To recruit international students, HEIs must invest in marketing and recruitment strategies, which build brand awareness and attract a diverse student body. This study investigates the development of a strategic university of choice model that can assist South African universities in the recruitment of international students by focusing on the factors, which influence a student’s university of choice. This was realised firstly by conducting a pilot study investigating the factors which influence the university of choice of students studying in South Africa. Secondly, the findings of the pilot study, combined with appropriate literature studies were used to develop a questionnaire to aid in determining the factors which influence the university of choice of international students studying in South Africa. Lastly, the findings of the questionnaire were used to draw conclusions and develop a proposed strategic model to promote the university of choice decisions among international students studying in South Africa. This thesis is an exploratory, mono-method quantitative study, which consists of literature reviews and surveys in a cross-sectional timeframe. The literature reviews were conducted on secondary sources to identify the factors that influence university of choice, as well as the marketing and recruitment trends within higher education. The empirical study consisted of a Pilot Study Survey and a Main Study Survey. The measuring instrument was compiled from existing surveys and literature studies. The findings of the Main Study Survey identified the following main factors of influence on university of choice: academic programme, academic quality, visa requirements, country/city attractiveness, English language, financial, International Office, student life, safety and security, university location and university reputation as main factors of influence. Within these main factors, various sub-factors were identified. The findings further illustrated that certain factors were more consultative in nature and provided information, which aided in the decision-making process. These factors are: motives to study/choose a programme, country attributes and influences/recruitment methods. Additionally, a third set of factors deemed to subconsciously influence the student’s decision-making process were identified as background of the student, study level and student type. The study contributes theoretically to Stakeholder Theory and Means-End Theory. Prospective students, who are higher education stakeholders, have diverse information needs and expectations, which will be met through the use of the proposed strategic model. Furthermore, the prospective students’ input will aid in the development of focused, targeted and cost-effective marketing and recruitment strategies, which will in turn meet the needs of universities to recruit a diverse student body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Jooste, Carlien
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Internationalism -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48191 , vital:40519
- Description: The internationalisation of higher education has become an inevitable focus in the modern day higher education sector. This focus is due to the interconnectedness of society, which is driven by globalisation. The ever-changing landscape of the current global higher education sector has further placed emphasis on self-funding and the corporatisation of higher education institutions (HEIs). This has created competitiveness in the sector for local and international students, which has led to institutions globally and in South Africa, being tasked with the responsibility of being agents of internationalisation. The concept of higher education internationalisation involves internationalisation of the curriculum, cross-continental partnerships, the increase in mobility of staff and students, educational programmes, innovative ways of delivery as well as the need to be globally competitive. Students themselves view international study important as it provides them with a global outlook and international experience. The increased competitiveness in the higher education sector and the need for HEIs to become more autonomous and self-funded, has amplified the need to recruit international students who generate additional income. Furthermore, the strategy to recruit international students has evolved and transformed into a customer-driven strategy to meet the needs of the knowledge economy. To recruit international students, HEIs must invest in marketing and recruitment strategies, which build brand awareness and attract a diverse student body. This study investigates the development of a strategic university of choice model that can assist South African universities in the recruitment of international students by focusing on the factors, which influence a student’s university of choice. This was realised firstly by conducting a pilot study investigating the factors which influence the university of choice of students studying in South Africa. Secondly, the findings of the pilot study, combined with appropriate literature studies were used to develop a questionnaire to aid in determining the factors which influence the university of choice of international students studying in South Africa. Lastly, the findings of the questionnaire were used to draw conclusions and develop a proposed strategic model to promote the university of choice decisions among international students studying in South Africa. This thesis is an exploratory, mono-method quantitative study, which consists of literature reviews and surveys in a cross-sectional timeframe. The literature reviews were conducted on secondary sources to identify the factors that influence university of choice, as well as the marketing and recruitment trends within higher education. The empirical study consisted of a Pilot Study Survey and a Main Study Survey. The measuring instrument was compiled from existing surveys and literature studies. The findings of the Main Study Survey identified the following main factors of influence on university of choice: academic programme, academic quality, visa requirements, country/city attractiveness, English language, financial, International Office, student life, safety and security, university location and university reputation as main factors of influence. Within these main factors, various sub-factors were identified. The findings further illustrated that certain factors were more consultative in nature and provided information, which aided in the decision-making process. These factors are: motives to study/choose a programme, country attributes and influences/recruitment methods. Additionally, a third set of factors deemed to subconsciously influence the student’s decision-making process were identified as background of the student, study level and student type. The study contributes theoretically to Stakeholder Theory and Means-End Theory. Prospective students, who are higher education stakeholders, have diverse information needs and expectations, which will be met through the use of the proposed strategic model. Furthermore, the prospective students’ input will aid in the development of focused, targeted and cost-effective marketing and recruitment strategies, which will in turn meet the needs of universities to recruit a diverse student body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A housing affordability and tenure of choice quantum deliverable model in South Africa
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Ranking Framework for Higher Education Institutions in South Africa
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48246 , vital:40746
- Description: In the past 16 years, the use of League Tables and Rankings (LTRs) as a tool to rank or measure the performance of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown in popularity. As a global practice, LTR outcomes are influencing how policies are developed and implemented within the Higher Education (HE) sector. Studies indicate that based on individual information requirements, HE stakeholders are using LTRs to compare HEIs with each other and make informed comparisons and decisions. University directors use LTRs as a basis for institutional strategic planning, reputation building and policy making, while students use LTRs to compare HEIs and make university of choice decisions. Further studies confirm that governments use LTRs for national higher education policy making, university funding, foreign partnerships and resource allocation. Globally and at a national level, the higher education sector has witnessed policy and structural changes, many of which are due to the increase in the use of international rankings and league tables. Despite the opportunities presented by participating in the production of and using LTRs, the ranking practice is contentious. Amongst the issues disputed by the HE stakeholders are the methodologies and criteria used in the production and publication of LTRs. Higher education experts argue that LTRs tend to favour institutional research output and ignore the teaching and learning function of HEIs. As a result, the ranking criteria differ across the higher education ranking institutions and their publication outcomes, which causes skepticism across the HE sector. Research indicates that these ranking criteria are often discussed from the standpoint of governments, the higher education management and the ranking institutions producing these LTR publications. The opinions of the students on the suitable ranking criteria used by ranking institutions lack. This study aims to address that gap. This study investigates the applicable criteria for ranking HEIs in South Africa, from the perspective of students. Building on the existing ranking criteria for three global and popular ranking institutions namely, Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), Times Higher Education World University Ranking (THEWUR) and Quacquarelli Symonds World University Ranking (QSWUR), the study poses the question; “What framework can be used to rank HEIs in South Africa, from a student’s perspective?” The study argues that although some HEIs in South Africa have in the past and most recently appeared in the global LTRs, the current choice of ranking criteria fails to consider the perspectives of the students, who are major consumers of LTRs and important stakeholders in the HE sector. A positivistic research method was used, based on a review of literature on the current ranking criteria for the selected global ranking institutions. An empirical study was conducted amongst students in a South African Comprehensive University. An online survey was distributed through convenient and snowball sampling, where the students were requested to participate in the survey and share the questionnaire link with others. Eight hundred and eighty six (886) responses were received and used for the data analyses of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48246 , vital:40746
- Description: In the past 16 years, the use of League Tables and Rankings (LTRs) as a tool to rank or measure the performance of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown in popularity. As a global practice, LTR outcomes are influencing how policies are developed and implemented within the Higher Education (HE) sector. Studies indicate that based on individual information requirements, HE stakeholders are using LTRs to compare HEIs with each other and make informed comparisons and decisions. University directors use LTRs as a basis for institutional strategic planning, reputation building and policy making, while students use LTRs to compare HEIs and make university of choice decisions. Further studies confirm that governments use LTRs for national higher education policy making, university funding, foreign partnerships and resource allocation. Globally and at a national level, the higher education sector has witnessed policy and structural changes, many of which are due to the increase in the use of international rankings and league tables. Despite the opportunities presented by participating in the production of and using LTRs, the ranking practice is contentious. Amongst the issues disputed by the HE stakeholders are the methodologies and criteria used in the production and publication of LTRs. Higher education experts argue that LTRs tend to favour institutional research output and ignore the teaching and learning function of HEIs. As a result, the ranking criteria differ across the higher education ranking institutions and their publication outcomes, which causes skepticism across the HE sector. Research indicates that these ranking criteria are often discussed from the standpoint of governments, the higher education management and the ranking institutions producing these LTR publications. The opinions of the students on the suitable ranking criteria used by ranking institutions lack. This study aims to address that gap. This study investigates the applicable criteria for ranking HEIs in South Africa, from the perspective of students. Building on the existing ranking criteria for three global and popular ranking institutions namely, Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), Times Higher Education World University Ranking (THEWUR) and Quacquarelli Symonds World University Ranking (QSWUR), the study poses the question; “What framework can be used to rank HEIs in South Africa, from a student’s perspective?” The study argues that although some HEIs in South Africa have in the past and most recently appeared in the global LTRs, the current choice of ranking criteria fails to consider the perspectives of the students, who are major consumers of LTRs and important stakeholders in the HE sector. A positivistic research method was used, based on a review of literature on the current ranking criteria for the selected global ranking institutions. An empirical study was conducted amongst students in a South African Comprehensive University. An online survey was distributed through convenient and snowball sampling, where the students were requested to participate in the survey and share the questionnaire link with others. Eight hundred and eighty six (886) responses were received and used for the data analyses of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Retirement planning activities of mobile phone dealers
- Authors: Kapp, Anton
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cell phone systems -- Retirement -- South Africa -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48257 , vital:40757
- Description: The mobile phone industry is one of the most technologically-advanced industries in South Africa, however, little information is available concerning retirement planning activities of mobile phone dealers in this industry. As research into the area of retirement planning and retirement planning activities of mobile phone dealers in the telecommunications industry is thus required, this study intended to fill this gap. The main objective of the study was to investigate whether mobile phone dealers were planning for their retirement and the retirement planning activities they performed. The study also further investigated the retirement activities of the mobile phone dealers’ employees. A case study research in six phases was conducted and data was obtained from 18 participants using a semi-structured interview schedule. The interview guide was prepared to focus on three theoretical themes, namely, retirement activities for retirement, retirement activities at retirement and retirement activities after retirement. The rich qualitative data was transcribed and analysed using content analysis. Most of the participants were male and in the 51+ year age category. The analysis of the feedback from the participants suggested that one out of 18 (5.56%) participants could not retire, seven out of 18 participants (38.89%) participants did not plan to retire, while ten out of 18 (55.56%) had a planned retirement date. A small number of participants actively used the retirement planning activities for employees as a successful retention tool in their businesses in an environment where employee rotation was reported to be high. The study found that the majority of mobile phone dealers had planned and provided for their own retirement. The feedback and recommendations of this study show that employees in the mobile phone dealer businesses lack knowledge on the importance of retirement planning in their lives, and that retirement planning knowledge intervention programmes should be introduced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kapp, Anton
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cell phone systems -- Retirement -- South Africa -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48257 , vital:40757
- Description: The mobile phone industry is one of the most technologically-advanced industries in South Africa, however, little information is available concerning retirement planning activities of mobile phone dealers in this industry. As research into the area of retirement planning and retirement planning activities of mobile phone dealers in the telecommunications industry is thus required, this study intended to fill this gap. The main objective of the study was to investigate whether mobile phone dealers were planning for their retirement and the retirement planning activities they performed. The study also further investigated the retirement activities of the mobile phone dealers’ employees. A case study research in six phases was conducted and data was obtained from 18 participants using a semi-structured interview schedule. The interview guide was prepared to focus on three theoretical themes, namely, retirement activities for retirement, retirement activities at retirement and retirement activities after retirement. The rich qualitative data was transcribed and analysed using content analysis. Most of the participants were male and in the 51+ year age category. The analysis of the feedback from the participants suggested that one out of 18 (5.56%) participants could not retire, seven out of 18 participants (38.89%) participants did not plan to retire, while ten out of 18 (55.56%) had a planned retirement date. A small number of participants actively used the retirement planning activities for employees as a successful retention tool in their businesses in an environment where employee rotation was reported to be high. The study found that the majority of mobile phone dealers had planned and provided for their own retirement. The feedback and recommendations of this study show that employees in the mobile phone dealer businesses lack knowledge on the importance of retirement planning in their lives, and that retirement planning knowledge intervention programmes should be introduced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020