An evaluation of medicinal plants used in South Africa and Lesotho for uterotonic contractile purposes
- Authors: Smit, Inge
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa Traditional medicine -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15232 , vital:40256
- Description: Background One of the leading cause of maternal mortality globally is postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), which mainly occur in developing countries. By identifying traditional medicinal plants that is used by Traditional birth attendants we can analysis the plants for cyclotides which contain uterotonic properties and a wide variety of other properties. The indigenous knowledge of traditional medicinal plants need to be preserved and scientifically proven to ensure future drug development and continued use of these plants. Cyclotides can be used as a backbone to develop novel drugs in that cyclotides are very stable proteins. Methods: Ten plants were identified that are commonly used to prevent or treat postpartum haemorrhage. The plant samples were collected, prepared and dried in South Africa. The plants were analysed in Austria. The plants underwent extraction of one gram of each plant was analysed using: Matrix-Assisted Laser desorption Ionization time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS); Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Analysis by High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Results None of the ten plants analysed showed the presence of cyclotides. It is important to report negative results, because it informs the academic fraternity and could be entered in a global data base of results. The plants analysed is known to be used by Traditional Birth Attendants for the treatment or prevention of postpartum haemorrhage. Conclusion All the plants analysed are commonly used to prevent and treat PPH. The fact that no cyclotides were found do not dispute the practical use of these plants to prevent and treat PPH. There continue to be a gap in what uterotonic properties these plants contain and should be further investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Smit, Inge
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa Traditional medicine -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15232 , vital:40256
- Description: Background One of the leading cause of maternal mortality globally is postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), which mainly occur in developing countries. By identifying traditional medicinal plants that is used by Traditional birth attendants we can analysis the plants for cyclotides which contain uterotonic properties and a wide variety of other properties. The indigenous knowledge of traditional medicinal plants need to be preserved and scientifically proven to ensure future drug development and continued use of these plants. Cyclotides can be used as a backbone to develop novel drugs in that cyclotides are very stable proteins. Methods: Ten plants were identified that are commonly used to prevent or treat postpartum haemorrhage. The plant samples were collected, prepared and dried in South Africa. The plants were analysed in Austria. The plants underwent extraction of one gram of each plant was analysed using: Matrix-Assisted Laser desorption Ionization time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS); Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Analysis by High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Results None of the ten plants analysed showed the presence of cyclotides. It is important to report negative results, because it informs the academic fraternity and could be entered in a global data base of results. The plants analysed is known to be used by Traditional Birth Attendants for the treatment or prevention of postpartum haemorrhage. Conclusion All the plants analysed are commonly used to prevent and treat PPH. The fact that no cyclotides were found do not dispute the practical use of these plants to prevent and treat PPH. There continue to be a gap in what uterotonic properties these plants contain and should be further investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The exploration of a relationship between leadership styles and organizational commitment of Richards Bay Coal Terminal employees
- Authors: Khoali, Bafokeng Ngcobile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021315
- Description: Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) is situated in the South African deep water harbour of KwaZulu- Natal. The company provides coal mining organizations a strategic logistics link to international coal markets by enabling the use of a coal exporting facility. RBCT recognizes that its lifeblood is the human capital it retains and that achieving a competitive edge equitably and fairly through its people is a priority (du Preez, 2012). In the modern organization operating in an environment of uncertainty and constant change, employee’s commitment to the organization can be a critical determinant of its success or failure in anchoring a competitive advantage (Ulrich, 1998). The current study explored a relationship between the full range leadership styles of supervisors and the organizational commitment of the subordinates to the organization. The literature reviewed in the study includes two models; the first model is by Bass and Avolio and is referred to as the full range leadership model (FRL). This is the independent variable of the research. The dependent variable is organizational commitment, which belongs to the three component model by Meyer and Allen. These models each contain an instrument which was used on a sample of 120 non-supervisory employees. The independent variable used an instrument called the multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ) and the dependent used the organizational commitment questionnaire (OCQ). The data collected with these two questionnaires was then subjected to statistical scrutiny. A two-tailed Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to ascertain the strength and direction of the linear relationship, but most importantly to, at 95%-99% confidence, ascertain the statistical significance of the relationships. The findings of the study reflected no statistically significant relationships between transactional leadership and all of the three components of organizational commitment. The two components; affective and normative commitment, both reported a significant relationship with laissez-faire, whilst continuance commitment reflected insignificance. A positive significant relationship between transformational leadership and affective commitment was evident. This leadership style demonstrated no statistically significant relationship between it and continuance and normative commitment. The combined findings suggested that transactional leadership style of supervisors is somewhat unrelated to the subordinate’s need, desire and or sense of obligation to remain employed. A more transformational style of leadership appears to inspire a desire to sustain employment and affectively commit to the organization, whilst this style bears no relation to the need and sense of moral obligation of the subordinate to maintain employment. Laissez-faire reported a weak insignificant negative relationship with continuance commitment. The result suggests the independence of the subordinates’ need to maintain employment to the lack of leadership presence of the supervision. The significant relationship between laissez-faire and normative commitment may be accepted as indicative of how the absence of leadership is related to the employee’s recognition of no developmental intentions demonstrated by the supervisor. Although weak, the relationship between laissez-faire and affective commitment entails that the more prevalent the non-leadership (absence of leadership) style of the supervisor, the less desire do subordinates demonstrate to remain employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Khoali, Bafokeng Ngcobile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021315
- Description: Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) is situated in the South African deep water harbour of KwaZulu- Natal. The company provides coal mining organizations a strategic logistics link to international coal markets by enabling the use of a coal exporting facility. RBCT recognizes that its lifeblood is the human capital it retains and that achieving a competitive edge equitably and fairly through its people is a priority (du Preez, 2012). In the modern organization operating in an environment of uncertainty and constant change, employee’s commitment to the organization can be a critical determinant of its success or failure in anchoring a competitive advantage (Ulrich, 1998). The current study explored a relationship between the full range leadership styles of supervisors and the organizational commitment of the subordinates to the organization. The literature reviewed in the study includes two models; the first model is by Bass and Avolio and is referred to as the full range leadership model (FRL). This is the independent variable of the research. The dependent variable is organizational commitment, which belongs to the three component model by Meyer and Allen. These models each contain an instrument which was used on a sample of 120 non-supervisory employees. The independent variable used an instrument called the multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ) and the dependent used the organizational commitment questionnaire (OCQ). The data collected with these two questionnaires was then subjected to statistical scrutiny. A two-tailed Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to ascertain the strength and direction of the linear relationship, but most importantly to, at 95%-99% confidence, ascertain the statistical significance of the relationships. The findings of the study reflected no statistically significant relationships between transactional leadership and all of the three components of organizational commitment. The two components; affective and normative commitment, both reported a significant relationship with laissez-faire, whilst continuance commitment reflected insignificance. A positive significant relationship between transformational leadership and affective commitment was evident. This leadership style demonstrated no statistically significant relationship between it and continuance and normative commitment. The combined findings suggested that transactional leadership style of supervisors is somewhat unrelated to the subordinate’s need, desire and or sense of obligation to remain employed. A more transformational style of leadership appears to inspire a desire to sustain employment and affectively commit to the organization, whilst this style bears no relation to the need and sense of moral obligation of the subordinate to maintain employment. Laissez-faire reported a weak insignificant negative relationship with continuance commitment. The result suggests the independence of the subordinates’ need to maintain employment to the lack of leadership presence of the supervision. The significant relationship between laissez-faire and normative commitment may be accepted as indicative of how the absence of leadership is related to the employee’s recognition of no developmental intentions demonstrated by the supervisor. Although weak, the relationship between laissez-faire and affective commitment entails that the more prevalent the non-leadership (absence of leadership) style of the supervisor, the less desire do subordinates demonstrate to remain employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a new medical faculty building at Livingston Hospital in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of school governing bodies in promoting good-governance in schools: a case of circuit 9 in Qumbu District Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mdudo, Mzuvukile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4627 , vital:28468
- Description: The main purpose of the study was to investigate on how a School Governing Body SGB can impact on the challenges of school governance in the Eastern Cape Province, particularly in Circuit 9 schools of Qumbu district. That was done firstly by identifying and explaining the three main themes namely; (i) the role of SGB components, (ii) the effectiveness of a SGB and (iii) the competency of a SGB. The study used the qualitative approach, particularly a constructive interpretative paradigm to collect and analyse data. A desk top study was used as the main design and was implemented to identify information rich data for the study. Desk top research was employed as the main data collection technique and was confirmed, corroborated and augmented by and document analysis, particularly during data analysis. The researcher inductively segmented and coded the data into three main themes which served as the main empirical research findings. Such findings indicated that school governance is influenced by both the SGB and the stakeholders. It was recommended that setting up key strategies, but specific to school governance, will reduce the challenges schools face in terms of governance as there will be full personal responsibility from the SGB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mdudo, Mzuvukile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4627 , vital:28468
- Description: The main purpose of the study was to investigate on how a School Governing Body SGB can impact on the challenges of school governance in the Eastern Cape Province, particularly in Circuit 9 schools of Qumbu district. That was done firstly by identifying and explaining the three main themes namely; (i) the role of SGB components, (ii) the effectiveness of a SGB and (iii) the competency of a SGB. The study used the qualitative approach, particularly a constructive interpretative paradigm to collect and analyse data. A desk top study was used as the main design and was implemented to identify information rich data for the study. Desk top research was employed as the main data collection technique and was confirmed, corroborated and augmented by and document analysis, particularly during data analysis. The researcher inductively segmented and coded the data into three main themes which served as the main empirical research findings. Such findings indicated that school governance is influenced by both the SGB and the stakeholders. It was recommended that setting up key strategies, but specific to school governance, will reduce the challenges schools face in terms of governance as there will be full personal responsibility from the SGB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Four husbands for Ma Lindi: an exploration of the interaction between theatrical performance, gender, and sexuality in a South African urban context
- Authors: Vaughan, Clara
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4610 , vital:20700
- Description: The thesis investigates the possibilities and limitations of theatre-making in providing a space for young people to collectively create, share, and interrogate understandings about sex, sexuality and gender. I use as a case study a theatremaking process I facilitated with a group of first year drama students at the Market Theatre Laboratory, in which we created a play called Four Husbands for Ma Lindi. The research analyses how this process interacted with the identities-in-becoming of the individual creators, and their engagement with the world, through a methodology that views them as experts on their own lives. There are three main arguments that I put forward in this thesis: the first is based on the experiences of healing, increased confidence and self-knowledge described by the participants as a result of sharing their personal stories in making the play. I argue that exploring autobiographical narratives through the aesthetic of theatre creates a group story that re-situates the narratives, the tellers and the witnesses in ways that can be productive for sexual and personal wellbeing, while also providing a counter-narrative that problematises the idea that sharing personal stories is always and necessarily a positive act. My second argument is that theatre-making, because it is an embodied performance pedagogy, is a constructive site in which to interrogate, deconstruct and subvert embedded gender norms and values, which are learnt and reiterated in the body. My third argument considers the relationship between theatre and change that is suggested by the findings of the research. In an analysis of the responses of the participants, I contend that theatre's potential for creating change in the socio-cultural domain lies in its ability to carve out spaces for improvisation, rather than to serve as a rehearsal for the real world. This is the position from which I then consider my ethics of practice and the role and responsibility of the facilitator in processes that view theatre-making as a critical performance pedagogy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Vaughan, Clara
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4610 , vital:20700
- Description: The thesis investigates the possibilities and limitations of theatre-making in providing a space for young people to collectively create, share, and interrogate understandings about sex, sexuality and gender. I use as a case study a theatremaking process I facilitated with a group of first year drama students at the Market Theatre Laboratory, in which we created a play called Four Husbands for Ma Lindi. The research analyses how this process interacted with the identities-in-becoming of the individual creators, and their engagement with the world, through a methodology that views them as experts on their own lives. There are three main arguments that I put forward in this thesis: the first is based on the experiences of healing, increased confidence and self-knowledge described by the participants as a result of sharing their personal stories in making the play. I argue that exploring autobiographical narratives through the aesthetic of theatre creates a group story that re-situates the narratives, the tellers and the witnesses in ways that can be productive for sexual and personal wellbeing, while also providing a counter-narrative that problematises the idea that sharing personal stories is always and necessarily a positive act. My second argument is that theatre-making, because it is an embodied performance pedagogy, is a constructive site in which to interrogate, deconstruct and subvert embedded gender norms and values, which are learnt and reiterated in the body. My third argument considers the relationship between theatre and change that is suggested by the findings of the research. In an analysis of the responses of the participants, I contend that theatre's potential for creating change in the socio-cultural domain lies in its ability to carve out spaces for improvisation, rather than to serve as a rehearsal for the real world. This is the position from which I then consider my ethics of practice and the role and responsibility of the facilitator in processes that view theatre-making as a critical performance pedagogy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Impact of sectoral determinations in previously unregulated sectors: a case study of domestic work in Grahamstown
- Authors: Nxokweni, Saphokazi
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3761 , vital:20542
- Description: Domestic labour is widely recognized as one of the most vulnerable labour sectors, both nationally and internationally. In South Africa, sectoral determination 7 was specifically developed to protect domestic workers’ rights and provide them with the means to negotiate with and hold employers to account. However, research over the past years has demonstrated that, while some areas of domestic labour have improved, many workers are still locked in exploitative labour relationships. This research shows that it may seem as if there are significant changes in this sector since the introduction of the sectoral determination, but paternalistic orientations, one-of-the-family myths, and food distribution suggest otherwise. The research concluded that continuities of exploitative and discriminatory practices are still prominent in the employment relationship when viewed through the lens of paternalistic care, food distribution, and the ‘one-of-the-family’ myth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nxokweni, Saphokazi
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3761 , vital:20542
- Description: Domestic labour is widely recognized as one of the most vulnerable labour sectors, both nationally and internationally. In South Africa, sectoral determination 7 was specifically developed to protect domestic workers’ rights and provide them with the means to negotiate with and hold employers to account. However, research over the past years has demonstrated that, while some areas of domestic labour have improved, many workers are still locked in exploitative labour relationships. This research shows that it may seem as if there are significant changes in this sector since the introduction of the sectoral determination, but paternalistic orientations, one-of-the-family myths, and food distribution suggest otherwise. The research concluded that continuities of exploitative and discriminatory practices are still prominent in the employment relationship when viewed through the lens of paternalistic care, food distribution, and the ‘one-of-the-family’ myth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The implementation of deportation laws against the right to security and liberty of migrants workers:a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Pedzisa, Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Deportation -- South Africa Emigration and immigration law -- South Africa Emigration and immigration -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5402 , vital:29230
- Description: Globalisation has resulted in the increase of migrant workers who cross borders in search of better opportunities and greener pastures. Migrant workers, wherever they decide to relocate, are at the risk of arbitrary arrests and illegal deportations which infringe their right to liberty and security. Many unreported cases show that migrant workers in South Africa have to endure inhuman treatment every day, through the implementation of deportation laws by law enforcement agencies. This is however, done in a manner which disregards their possession of necessary documentation authorising them to be in the country. The Constitution of South Africa, legislation and other related policies provide for the protection of the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. It is against the above that this mini dissertation examines and analyses how the implementation of deportation laws impacts on the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. This mini dissertation points out that there is a dire need to ensure that the implementation of deportation laws complies with the requirements of the right to security and liberty of persons accorded to the status of migrant workers by the Constitution and other related legislation or policies. The methodology made use of in this research is qualitative. This research used legislative texts, case law, journal articles and other academic commentary to acquire information on the right of migrant workers and their plight in South Africa. The study also makes recommendations for appropriate domestic law reform in respect to how deportation laws can be implemented in a bid to protect the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. These recommendations are designed to ensure that law enforcement agencies adhere to the law and procedure which protect migrant workers from arbitrary arrests, and illegal deportations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Pedzisa, Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Deportation -- South Africa Emigration and immigration law -- South Africa Emigration and immigration -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5402 , vital:29230
- Description: Globalisation has resulted in the increase of migrant workers who cross borders in search of better opportunities and greener pastures. Migrant workers, wherever they decide to relocate, are at the risk of arbitrary arrests and illegal deportations which infringe their right to liberty and security. Many unreported cases show that migrant workers in South Africa have to endure inhuman treatment every day, through the implementation of deportation laws by law enforcement agencies. This is however, done in a manner which disregards their possession of necessary documentation authorising them to be in the country. The Constitution of South Africa, legislation and other related policies provide for the protection of the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. It is against the above that this mini dissertation examines and analyses how the implementation of deportation laws impacts on the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. This mini dissertation points out that there is a dire need to ensure that the implementation of deportation laws complies with the requirements of the right to security and liberty of persons accorded to the status of migrant workers by the Constitution and other related legislation or policies. The methodology made use of in this research is qualitative. This research used legislative texts, case law, journal articles and other academic commentary to acquire information on the right of migrant workers and their plight in South Africa. The study also makes recommendations for appropriate domestic law reform in respect to how deportation laws can be implemented in a bid to protect the right to liberty and security of migrant workers. These recommendations are designed to ensure that law enforcement agencies adhere to the law and procedure which protect migrant workers from arbitrary arrests, and illegal deportations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bond market -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7218 , vital:21306
- Description: This paper investigates the effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa. Quarterly data for South Africa for the period 2003-2014 was used to develop a general- to- specific Auto-Regressive Distribution Lag (ARDL) approach. The empirical results confirm that there is a positive relationship between Bond market and economic growth in South Africa. A co-integrated relationship between economic growth, stock market and banking sector was noticed in both the long-run and short-runs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bond market -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7218 , vital:21306
- Description: This paper investigates the effect of bond market on economic growth in South Africa. Quarterly data for South Africa for the period 2003-2014 was used to develop a general- to- specific Auto-Regressive Distribution Lag (ARDL) approach. The empirical results confirm that there is a positive relationship between Bond market and economic growth in South Africa. A co-integrated relationship between economic growth, stock market and banking sector was noticed in both the long-run and short-runs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Investigating youth perceptions of youth participation in development: a focus on community engagement as a platform for youth/student participation at Rhodes University
- Authors: Dano, Nqaba
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1444 , vital:20058
- Description: The main objective of the study is to investigate youth perceptions of youth participation in development with a focus on the Rhodes Community Engagement programme as a platform for youth participation. The study was inspired by trying to locate the position that youth put themselves in when they regard their own participation in development. It was further motivated by trying to gain perspectives from the youth themselves because most discourses on youth rarely feature their own voices. The study utilized a qualitative methodology with an interpretive paradigm, which used semi-structured in-depth interviews as a method of data collection. The theoretical framework used was the notion of participatory development. The literature consulted was broken up into participation in development which looked at the history of participation and the need for participation, the importance of participation and the limits of participation and the type of participation. It looked at youth participation, the definition of youth as a group in society and the discourses that surround how youth are defined; lastly it looked at community engage in higher education, the role students place in community engagement and the nature of Rhodes Community engagement. The data was discussed and analysed following the above mentioned themes which were participation in development, youth participation and community engagement. From the data collected it was made evident that if youth are given more spaces and chances to actively participate they could challenge prominent discourses that treat them as irresponsible minors and exclude them from decision-making processes that directly affect them and the society within which they live.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dano, Nqaba
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1444 , vital:20058
- Description: The main objective of the study is to investigate youth perceptions of youth participation in development with a focus on the Rhodes Community Engagement programme as a platform for youth participation. The study was inspired by trying to locate the position that youth put themselves in when they regard their own participation in development. It was further motivated by trying to gain perspectives from the youth themselves because most discourses on youth rarely feature their own voices. The study utilized a qualitative methodology with an interpretive paradigm, which used semi-structured in-depth interviews as a method of data collection. The theoretical framework used was the notion of participatory development. The literature consulted was broken up into participation in development which looked at the history of participation and the need for participation, the importance of participation and the limits of participation and the type of participation. It looked at youth participation, the definition of youth as a group in society and the discourses that surround how youth are defined; lastly it looked at community engage in higher education, the role students place in community engagement and the nature of Rhodes Community engagement. The data was discussed and analysed following the above mentioned themes which were participation in development, youth participation and community engagement. From the data collected it was made evident that if youth are given more spaces and chances to actively participate they could challenge prominent discourses that treat them as irresponsible minors and exclude them from decision-making processes that directly affect them and the society within which they live.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Remediation of metal ions in aqueous solution using activated carbon from Zea may stem
- Authors: Matandabuzo, Mzukisi
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021328
- Description: Zea mays stem and its activated carbon were prepared through chemical activation method using four different activating reagents (NaOH, H₃PO₄, H₂SO₄, KOH) and were used as adsorbents for the removal of Pb(II), Cu(II), Hg(II) and Cr(III) from aqueous solution. The results shows that activated carbon has high surface area and pore volume compared to the powdered raw Zea mays stem. Prepared activated carbon was characterized using physico-chemical properties such as carbon yield, iodine number, moisture content, percentage adsorption, and analytical instruments such as Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), powder X-ray Diffraction (pXRD). The adsorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and Cr(III) ions were pH, contact time, and concentration dependent. Based on the results obtained from the batch experiments, activated carbon prepared from Zea mays stem is not good enough for the removal of Hg(II) from aqueous solution. Adsorption ability was calculated and found to be 66.67% for activated carbon obtained from H₂SO₄, 21.21% for activated carbon obtained from KOH, and 20% for activated carbons obtained from NaOH and H₃PO₄. The pH 5-6 was chosen for all experiments, contact time was 2 hours, and adsorbent dosage was 2 g, initial concentration range from 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 ppm at room temperature. The metal ion removal trend was found in the order Pb(II)>Cu(II)>Cr(III)>>Hg(II). The Langmuir model fitted well in most of the cases with > 0.99. Consequently, the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cu(II) followed Langmuir isotherm model while that of Cr(III) best fitted the Freundlich isotherm model. The results indicated that the adsorption process followed two possible mechanisms. (I) Metal ion – adsorbent complex model and (II) Metal ion – ion-exchange adsorbent complex model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Matandabuzo, Mzukisi
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021328
- Description: Zea mays stem and its activated carbon were prepared through chemical activation method using four different activating reagents (NaOH, H₃PO₄, H₂SO₄, KOH) and were used as adsorbents for the removal of Pb(II), Cu(II), Hg(II) and Cr(III) from aqueous solution. The results shows that activated carbon has high surface area and pore volume compared to the powdered raw Zea mays stem. Prepared activated carbon was characterized using physico-chemical properties such as carbon yield, iodine number, moisture content, percentage adsorption, and analytical instruments such as Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), powder X-ray Diffraction (pXRD). The adsorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and Cr(III) ions were pH, contact time, and concentration dependent. Based on the results obtained from the batch experiments, activated carbon prepared from Zea mays stem is not good enough for the removal of Hg(II) from aqueous solution. Adsorption ability was calculated and found to be 66.67% for activated carbon obtained from H₂SO₄, 21.21% for activated carbon obtained from KOH, and 20% for activated carbons obtained from NaOH and H₃PO₄. The pH 5-6 was chosen for all experiments, contact time was 2 hours, and adsorbent dosage was 2 g, initial concentration range from 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 ppm at room temperature. The metal ion removal trend was found in the order Pb(II)>Cu(II)>Cr(III)>>Hg(II). The Langmuir model fitted well in most of the cases with > 0.99. Consequently, the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cu(II) followed Langmuir isotherm model while that of Cr(III) best fitted the Freundlich isotherm model. The results indicated that the adsorption process followed two possible mechanisms. (I) Metal ion – adsorbent complex model and (II) Metal ion – ion-exchange adsorbent complex model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Leopard population density and community attitudes towards leopards in and around Debshan Ranch, Shangani, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Nyoni, Phumuzile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5946 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020838
- Description: Leopards (Panthera pardus) are regarded as one of the most resilient large carnivore species in the world and can persist in human dominated landscapes, areas with low prey availability nd highly fragmented habitats. However, recent evidence across much of their range reveals declining populations. In Zimbabwe, 500 Convention for the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) export tags are available annually for leopards as hunting trophies, despite limited accurate data on the leopard populations of the country. Moreover, when coupled with the massive land conversions under the controversial National Land Reform Programme (NLRP), leopard populations in Zimbabwe are in dire need of assessment. My study was conducted on Debshan ranch, Shangani, Zimbabwe, which is a commercial cattle (Bos indicus) ranch but also supports a high diversity of indigenous wildlife including an apparently healthy leopard population. However, the NLRP has resulted in an increase in small-holder subsistence farming communities around the ranch (the land was previously privately owned and divided into larger sub-units). This change in land-use means that both human and livestock densities have increased and the potential for human leopard conflict has increased. I estimated the leopard population density of the ranch and assessed community attitudes towards leopards in the communities surrounding the ranch. To estimate population densities, I performed spoor counts and conducted a camera trapping survey. Questionnaire interviews were used to assess community attitudes. My spoor counts provided a leopard density estimate of 13.57 leopards/100km2 compared to the camera trapping estimate of between 2.0 and 6.9 leopards/100km2. Although the high density estimate derived from the spoor counts is possible for Debshan because leopards are the apex predators and are adequately protected, potential edge effects are not yet fully understood. Thus, the more conservative estimate of 2.0 leopards/100km2, derived from the camera trapping survey, is probably more appropriate. Attitudes towards predators amongst respondents surrounding Debshan (n = 140) were neither too negative nor positive, attitude index had a mean score of 1.7 ± 3.8 (range: -7 – 10). No single predictor variable used in my analysis was able to adequately explain why the communities held these negative views. However, livestock losses were repeatedly listed by respondents as being one of the main reasons for their lack of tolerance towards predators. The density estimate of 2.0 leopards/100km2 translates to a population of 9 – 26 leopards within Debshan ranch. This density estimate is too low considering the habitat type at Debshan ranch but should be interpreted with caution as it lacks fundamental elements like age and sex ratio. Moreover, the interaction of the leopard population with the surrounding communities is currently unclear. As a precautionary measure, I recommended reducing the annual hunting quota for Debshan from five to one leopard. Future work should aim to improve the attitudes of the surrounding communities to secure broader landscapes for leopard conservation while also reconciling density estimates to fully understand the leopard population of the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nyoni, Phumuzile
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5946 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020838
- Description: Leopards (Panthera pardus) are regarded as one of the most resilient large carnivore species in the world and can persist in human dominated landscapes, areas with low prey availability nd highly fragmented habitats. However, recent evidence across much of their range reveals declining populations. In Zimbabwe, 500 Convention for the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) export tags are available annually for leopards as hunting trophies, despite limited accurate data on the leopard populations of the country. Moreover, when coupled with the massive land conversions under the controversial National Land Reform Programme (NLRP), leopard populations in Zimbabwe are in dire need of assessment. My study was conducted on Debshan ranch, Shangani, Zimbabwe, which is a commercial cattle (Bos indicus) ranch but also supports a high diversity of indigenous wildlife including an apparently healthy leopard population. However, the NLRP has resulted in an increase in small-holder subsistence farming communities around the ranch (the land was previously privately owned and divided into larger sub-units). This change in land-use means that both human and livestock densities have increased and the potential for human leopard conflict has increased. I estimated the leopard population density of the ranch and assessed community attitudes towards leopards in the communities surrounding the ranch. To estimate population densities, I performed spoor counts and conducted a camera trapping survey. Questionnaire interviews were used to assess community attitudes. My spoor counts provided a leopard density estimate of 13.57 leopards/100km2 compared to the camera trapping estimate of between 2.0 and 6.9 leopards/100km2. Although the high density estimate derived from the spoor counts is possible for Debshan because leopards are the apex predators and are adequately protected, potential edge effects are not yet fully understood. Thus, the more conservative estimate of 2.0 leopards/100km2, derived from the camera trapping survey, is probably more appropriate. Attitudes towards predators amongst respondents surrounding Debshan (n = 140) were neither too negative nor positive, attitude index had a mean score of 1.7 ± 3.8 (range: -7 – 10). No single predictor variable used in my analysis was able to adequately explain why the communities held these negative views. However, livestock losses were repeatedly listed by respondents as being one of the main reasons for their lack of tolerance towards predators. The density estimate of 2.0 leopards/100km2 translates to a population of 9 – 26 leopards within Debshan ranch. This density estimate is too low considering the habitat type at Debshan ranch but should be interpreted with caution as it lacks fundamental elements like age and sex ratio. Moreover, the interaction of the leopard population with the surrounding communities is currently unclear. As a precautionary measure, I recommended reducing the annual hunting quota for Debshan from five to one leopard. Future work should aim to improve the attitudes of the surrounding communities to secure broader landscapes for leopard conservation while also reconciling density estimates to fully understand the leopard population of the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The promotion of ethical egoism through morality mechanics in mass effect, fable III & fallout new vegas: a role-playing video game exploration
- Authors: Grobler, Carli
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Egoism , Ethics Altruism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7699 , vital:23393
- Description: The aim of this study is to determine whether or not ethical egoism is promoted during gameplay of three role-playing video games namely Mass Effect, Fable III and Fallout New Vegas. The rapid expansion of the video gaming industry as well as game studies as an academic field have made it necessary to understand what effects video games may have on society. This study shows that gamers come into contact with various ethico-moral dilemmas during gameplay and act in an egoistic manner in order to complete video games. Firstly, an explanation of game and gameplay are provided as well as an outline of two game studies methodologies, namely narratology and ludology. These two methodologies are then combined into a hybrid approach which is used to analyse the video games from both a narrative and gameplay point of view which allows for a more comprehensive analysis of each respective game. Thereafter, a discussion of B.F. Skinner's behaviourism is given in order to better understand gamer behaviour. Skinner's concepts of positive reinforcement, schedules of reinforcement and operant conditioning are then linked to video games to show behaviourism's influences on game design. Ethical egoism, as theorised by Thomas Hobbes and Jesse Kalin, provides the ethico-moral theory necessary for the analysis of the morality mechanic in each game. Ethico-moral dilemmas identified within each game are discussed with regards to the hybrid approach which details both narrative and gameplay consequences of in-game ethico-moral decision making. The study concludes that gamers are ethical egoists when engaged in gameplay, due to their desire to complete the video game. However, during gameplay, gamers are exposed to altruism which is often promoted through the narrative and the nature of in-game objectives. Suggestions for further studies are also given for example a more detailed analysis of gamer behaviour, a qualitative study of in-game ethico-moral actions as well as a study of games that are non-violent in nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Grobler, Carli
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Egoism , Ethics Altruism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7699 , vital:23393
- Description: The aim of this study is to determine whether or not ethical egoism is promoted during gameplay of three role-playing video games namely Mass Effect, Fable III and Fallout New Vegas. The rapid expansion of the video gaming industry as well as game studies as an academic field have made it necessary to understand what effects video games may have on society. This study shows that gamers come into contact with various ethico-moral dilemmas during gameplay and act in an egoistic manner in order to complete video games. Firstly, an explanation of game and gameplay are provided as well as an outline of two game studies methodologies, namely narratology and ludology. These two methodologies are then combined into a hybrid approach which is used to analyse the video games from both a narrative and gameplay point of view which allows for a more comprehensive analysis of each respective game. Thereafter, a discussion of B.F. Skinner's behaviourism is given in order to better understand gamer behaviour. Skinner's concepts of positive reinforcement, schedules of reinforcement and operant conditioning are then linked to video games to show behaviourism's influences on game design. Ethical egoism, as theorised by Thomas Hobbes and Jesse Kalin, provides the ethico-moral theory necessary for the analysis of the morality mechanic in each game. Ethico-moral dilemmas identified within each game are discussed with regards to the hybrid approach which details both narrative and gameplay consequences of in-game ethico-moral decision making. The study concludes that gamers are ethical egoists when engaged in gameplay, due to their desire to complete the video game. However, during gameplay, gamers are exposed to altruism which is often promoted through the narrative and the nature of in-game objectives. Suggestions for further studies are also given for example a more detailed analysis of gamer behaviour, a qualitative study of in-game ethico-moral actions as well as a study of games that are non-violent in nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition
- Authors: Black, Beverley Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Psychological aspects , Aging -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5645 , vital:20947
- Description: This study examines the role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition. Retirement is viewed as one of the transitions in later life and has psychological consequences. It is an objective development and social-psychological transformation that is related to physical and psychological well-being. Research has shown that emotional awareness can have an impact on the retirement transition. A correlational research survey design was used for this study to determine and establish the role of emotional awareness, preparation and emotional responses in the retirement transition. Using a five-point Likert Scale, respondents were asked to score their responses to twenty-eight items. The questionnaire was distributed to retirees on the data bases of two financial companies that manage retirement funds. The SurveyMonkey application was used to distribute the survey to one financial company’s data base, and email was used for the other. Statistics such as means, relationships between factors, Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings of this study demonstrate inconclusive evidence of emotional awareness in retirement. In addition to this, there were no significant findings regarding preparation for retirement or emotional response to retirement which indicates a neutral attitude to preparation and retirement, on average. There is a need for further future studies that include a more balanced sample representation of men and women, a comparative study based on different cultures to determine if differences exist in the experience of emotions in the retirement transition, and a field study in retirement homes and villages to corroborate the findings of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Black, Beverley Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Psychological aspects , Aging -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5645 , vital:20947
- Description: This study examines the role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition. Retirement is viewed as one of the transitions in later life and has psychological consequences. It is an objective development and social-psychological transformation that is related to physical and psychological well-being. Research has shown that emotional awareness can have an impact on the retirement transition. A correlational research survey design was used for this study to determine and establish the role of emotional awareness, preparation and emotional responses in the retirement transition. Using a five-point Likert Scale, respondents were asked to score their responses to twenty-eight items. The questionnaire was distributed to retirees on the data bases of two financial companies that manage retirement funds. The SurveyMonkey application was used to distribute the survey to one financial company’s data base, and email was used for the other. Statistics such as means, relationships between factors, Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings of this study demonstrate inconclusive evidence of emotional awareness in retirement. In addition to this, there were no significant findings regarding preparation for retirement or emotional response to retirement which indicates a neutral attitude to preparation and retirement, on average. There is a need for further future studies that include a more balanced sample representation of men and women, a comparative study based on different cultures to determine if differences exist in the experience of emotions in the retirement transition, and a field study in retirement homes and villages to corroborate the findings of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of South Africa as a hegemonic' power in the maintenance of peace and stability in the SADC region
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkosiyaphi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community Peace-building -- South Africa Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6491 , vital:29824
- Description: This study investigates South Africa’s role as a hegemonic power in maintaining peace and stability in the SADC region. Using qualitative and secondary data supplemented with primary data, the study examines not only South Africa’s hegemonic role in the SADC region but also the challenges and critiques of South Africa’s hegemonic role in the region. The study implores the hegemonic stability theory and explores the features that qualify South Africa to be a regional hegemonic power. These include South Africa’s economic power, military power and strategic location. This study reveals that South Africa’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region is informed by its foreign policy and its pursuit of national interest and protection of its borders. The study also found out that the motive behind South Africa being active in peacekeeping missions is that it avoids being surrounded by failed states which might have spillover effects into its territorial boundaries. The study notes that there are numerous shortcomings which taint South Africa’s hegemonic status. They include violent protests, xenophobia, racism, crime and corruption. The study recommends that South Africa needs to be proactive in solving the challenges within its domestic terrain as these shortcomings taint its hegemonic status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkosiyaphi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community Peace-building -- South Africa Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6491 , vital:29824
- Description: This study investigates South Africa’s role as a hegemonic power in maintaining peace and stability in the SADC region. Using qualitative and secondary data supplemented with primary data, the study examines not only South Africa’s hegemonic role in the SADC region but also the challenges and critiques of South Africa’s hegemonic role in the region. The study implores the hegemonic stability theory and explores the features that qualify South Africa to be a regional hegemonic power. These include South Africa’s economic power, military power and strategic location. This study reveals that South Africa’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region is informed by its foreign policy and its pursuit of national interest and protection of its borders. The study also found out that the motive behind South Africa being active in peacekeeping missions is that it avoids being surrounded by failed states which might have spillover effects into its territorial boundaries. The study notes that there are numerous shortcomings which taint South Africa’s hegemonic status. They include violent protests, xenophobia, racism, crime and corruption. The study recommends that South Africa needs to be proactive in solving the challenges within its domestic terrain as these shortcomings taint its hegemonic status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Modular electric automatic guided vehicle suspension-drive unit
- Macfarlane, Alexander Blair Stuart, Van Niekerk, Theo
- Authors: Macfarlane, Alexander Blair Stuart , Van Niekerk, Theo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Autonomous vehicles , Sustainable design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8220 , vital:25968
- Description: This report discusses the design, development, elevation and creation of a modular omni-directional suspension-drive train unit for use on 1000 kg automatic guided vehicle. The system included a semi-active suspension oleo strut system that can vary its dampening and ride height. The drive train system is capable of omni-directional motion through the use of separately driven mechanum wheels power by a 48 volt DC system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Macfarlane, Alexander Blair Stuart , Van Niekerk, Theo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Autonomous vehicles , Sustainable design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8220 , vital:25968
- Description: This report discusses the design, development, elevation and creation of a modular omni-directional suspension-drive train unit for use on 1000 kg automatic guided vehicle. The system included a semi-active suspension oleo strut system that can vary its dampening and ride height. The drive train system is capable of omni-directional motion through the use of separately driven mechanum wheels power by a 48 volt DC system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An examination of teaching strategies for mediating the construction of environmental content knowledge: a case of Grade 11 Life Sciences teaching in two Eastern Cape schools
- Authors: Chitsiga, Christina
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/361 , vital:19953
- Description: In South Africa the new Curriculum Assessment and Policy Statement (CAPS) introduced a more strongly content referenced curriculum which has commitments to active and critical approaches to learning, and to environment and sustainability content. Successful implementation of CAPS requires that teachers attain the requisite knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge for working with environmental and sustainability content. The study examined teachers’ knowledge of environmental content as well as how teachers are mediating learning, through exploring the classroom techniques used by teachers working with environmental content. This was to examine how teachers are through their teaching bridging the gap in the understanding, investigation and application of environmental content in the curriculum. The study used a number of approaches from the field of environmental education which offer different lenses (or pedagogical sensitizing constructs) for viewing mediation processes as a relational process of knowledge construction. These pedagogical constructs were: knowledge co-construction where perspectives and understandings are shared in the process of social relations (deliberation); relating environmental content knowledge to cultural historical context (situated learning); relating environmental content knowledge to everyday and intergenerational knowledge through hands on experience (proximity experience) and developing an iterative relationship between environmental content knowledge and sustainability practices (practical reasoning). Practice theory as suggested by Schatzki (2005) and a theory of practice architectures elaborating on Schatzki’s practice theory (Kemmis & Heikkinen, 2011) was used as the ontological lens to help in understanding the mediation of environmental content knowledge. Practice theory was used for exploring pedagogical practice in terms of sayings, doings and relatings by teachers, and practice architectures that represent enabling or constraining factors of teachers practice. This research was an interpretive case study drawing on findings from lesson observations, semi structured interviews, stimulated recall interviews and document analysis. The research found that teachers used different strategies to enhance their environmental content and pedagogical content knowledge to present the mediation. Teachers are supporting situated learning and deliberation in environmental learning. Another finding was that teachers could be enabled to enhance proximity experiences and practical reason in their mediating approaches in environmental learning. The research further showed that teachers could benefit from teacher professional development programmes that explicitly develop pedagogical content knowledge to support critical deliberation, proximity encounters, situated learning and practical reasoning in order to work with the diverse complex places-based, socio-cultural-historical nature of environmental curriculum content in the context of sustainability practices. Findings also showed that there were constraining factors to mediation of environmental learning. These constraining factors from the research were firstly in material economic arrangements of timetable compliance in CAPS, ability to find internet resources and availability of resources. Secondly, present were constraining factors of socio-political arrangements of CAPS curriculum document prescriptiveness, multiculturalism, learning institution management and governance. Thirdly, cultural discursive arrangements of teacher learner language, knowledge of the language of the field affected mediation. Teachers passion for environmental content topics, the ability of teachers’ to improvise resources in mediating environmental content lessons and the ability of teachers’ to navigate a stringent CAPS timetable were found in this research to be enabling mediation. Recommendations from the research are ongoing teacher refresher workshops on the environmental content in the CAPS curriculum, teachers’ need more input on strategies to mediate environmental content, teachers’ prior knowledge of new knowledge can be used to strengthen teacher professional development processes, teachers’ prior knowledge needs to be deepened and reinforced, there is need to develop quality educational resources encompassing a variety of pedagogical sensitizing constructs and support needs to be given for familiarising teachers with teaching materials and their appropriate use . These could help to strengthen mediation of environmental content knowledge in the Grade 11 CAPS Life Sciences and inform South African teacher professional development programmes seeking to understand classroom practices in relation to environmental content.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chitsiga, Christina
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/361 , vital:19953
- Description: In South Africa the new Curriculum Assessment and Policy Statement (CAPS) introduced a more strongly content referenced curriculum which has commitments to active and critical approaches to learning, and to environment and sustainability content. Successful implementation of CAPS requires that teachers attain the requisite knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge for working with environmental and sustainability content. The study examined teachers’ knowledge of environmental content as well as how teachers are mediating learning, through exploring the classroom techniques used by teachers working with environmental content. This was to examine how teachers are through their teaching bridging the gap in the understanding, investigation and application of environmental content in the curriculum. The study used a number of approaches from the field of environmental education which offer different lenses (or pedagogical sensitizing constructs) for viewing mediation processes as a relational process of knowledge construction. These pedagogical constructs were: knowledge co-construction where perspectives and understandings are shared in the process of social relations (deliberation); relating environmental content knowledge to cultural historical context (situated learning); relating environmental content knowledge to everyday and intergenerational knowledge through hands on experience (proximity experience) and developing an iterative relationship between environmental content knowledge and sustainability practices (practical reasoning). Practice theory as suggested by Schatzki (2005) and a theory of practice architectures elaborating on Schatzki’s practice theory (Kemmis & Heikkinen, 2011) was used as the ontological lens to help in understanding the mediation of environmental content knowledge. Practice theory was used for exploring pedagogical practice in terms of sayings, doings and relatings by teachers, and practice architectures that represent enabling or constraining factors of teachers practice. This research was an interpretive case study drawing on findings from lesson observations, semi structured interviews, stimulated recall interviews and document analysis. The research found that teachers used different strategies to enhance their environmental content and pedagogical content knowledge to present the mediation. Teachers are supporting situated learning and deliberation in environmental learning. Another finding was that teachers could be enabled to enhance proximity experiences and practical reason in their mediating approaches in environmental learning. The research further showed that teachers could benefit from teacher professional development programmes that explicitly develop pedagogical content knowledge to support critical deliberation, proximity encounters, situated learning and practical reasoning in order to work with the diverse complex places-based, socio-cultural-historical nature of environmental curriculum content in the context of sustainability practices. Findings also showed that there were constraining factors to mediation of environmental learning. These constraining factors from the research were firstly in material economic arrangements of timetable compliance in CAPS, ability to find internet resources and availability of resources. Secondly, present were constraining factors of socio-political arrangements of CAPS curriculum document prescriptiveness, multiculturalism, learning institution management and governance. Thirdly, cultural discursive arrangements of teacher learner language, knowledge of the language of the field affected mediation. Teachers passion for environmental content topics, the ability of teachers’ to improvise resources in mediating environmental content lessons and the ability of teachers’ to navigate a stringent CAPS timetable were found in this research to be enabling mediation. Recommendations from the research are ongoing teacher refresher workshops on the environmental content in the CAPS curriculum, teachers’ need more input on strategies to mediate environmental content, teachers’ prior knowledge of new knowledge can be used to strengthen teacher professional development processes, teachers’ prior knowledge needs to be deepened and reinforced, there is need to develop quality educational resources encompassing a variety of pedagogical sensitizing constructs and support needs to be given for familiarising teachers with teaching materials and their appropriate use . These could help to strengthen mediation of environmental content knowledge in the Grade 11 CAPS Life Sciences and inform South African teacher professional development programmes seeking to understand classroom practices in relation to environmental content.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Assessing the vulnerability of resource-poor households to disasters associated with climate variability using remote sensing and GIS techniques in the Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Chari, Martin Munashe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Forecasting Natural resources -- Remote sensing Droughts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2425 , vital:27837
- Description: The main objective of the study was to assess the extent to which resource-poor households in selected villages of Nkonkobe Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa are vulnerable to drought by using an improvised remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS)-based mapping approach. The research methodology was comprised of 1) assessment of vulnerability levels and 2) the calculation of established drought assessment indices comprising the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) from wet-season Landsat images covering a period of 29 years from 1985 to 2014 in order to objectively determine the temporal recurrence of drought in Nkonkobe Local Municipality. Vulnerability of households to drought was determined by using a multi-step GIS-based mapping approach in which 3 components comprising exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity were simultaneously analysed and averaged to determine the magnitude of vulnerability. Thereafter, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to establish weighted contributions of these components to vulnerability. The weights applied to the AHP were obtained from the 2012 - 2017 Nkonkobe Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and perceptions that were solicited from key informants who were judged to be knowledgeable about the subject. A Kruskal-Wallis H test on demographic data for water access revealed that the demographic results are independent of choice of data acquired from different data providers (χ2(2) = 1.26, p = 0.533, with a mean ranked population scores of 7.4 for ECSECC, 6.8 for Quantec and 9.8 for StatsSA). Simple linear regression analysis revealed strong positive correlations between NDWI and NDVI ((r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1, for 1985), 1995 (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 1995), (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 2005) and (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 2014). The regression analysis proved that vegetation condition depends on surface water arising from rainfall. The results indicate that the whole of Nkonkobe Local Municipality is susceptible to drought with villages in south eastern part being most vulnerable to droughts due to high sensitivity and low adaptive capacity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chari, Martin Munashe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Forecasting Natural resources -- Remote sensing Droughts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2425 , vital:27837
- Description: The main objective of the study was to assess the extent to which resource-poor households in selected villages of Nkonkobe Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa are vulnerable to drought by using an improvised remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS)-based mapping approach. The research methodology was comprised of 1) assessment of vulnerability levels and 2) the calculation of established drought assessment indices comprising the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) from wet-season Landsat images covering a period of 29 years from 1985 to 2014 in order to objectively determine the temporal recurrence of drought in Nkonkobe Local Municipality. Vulnerability of households to drought was determined by using a multi-step GIS-based mapping approach in which 3 components comprising exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity were simultaneously analysed and averaged to determine the magnitude of vulnerability. Thereafter, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to establish weighted contributions of these components to vulnerability. The weights applied to the AHP were obtained from the 2012 - 2017 Nkonkobe Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and perceptions that were solicited from key informants who were judged to be knowledgeable about the subject. A Kruskal-Wallis H test on demographic data for water access revealed that the demographic results are independent of choice of data acquired from different data providers (χ2(2) = 1.26, p = 0.533, with a mean ranked population scores of 7.4 for ECSECC, 6.8 for Quantec and 9.8 for StatsSA). Simple linear regression analysis revealed strong positive correlations between NDWI and NDVI ((r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1, for 1985), 1995 (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 1995), (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 2005) and (r = 0.99609375, R2 = 1 for 2014). The regression analysis proved that vegetation condition depends on surface water arising from rainfall. The results indicate that the whole of Nkonkobe Local Municipality is susceptible to drought with villages in south eastern part being most vulnerable to droughts due to high sensitivity and low adaptive capacity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The current role of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area
- Authors: Moss, Nicola Joy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4108 , vital:20609
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to analyse the current roles that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area fulfil, by determining their current practices, describing the internal measures of effectiveness, and to explain why there are some farmers’ who do not belong to farmers’ associations. In doing this, the researcher was able to determine whether maintaining the status quo would effectively satisfy the members of farmers’ associations. In turn, recommendations were made to farmers’ associations on the roles which could be improved, in order to obtain a higher level of satisfaction among members. In order to achieve the primary aim of the study, interviews were conducted and questionnaires were administered to members of, non-members of, and chairpersons of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area, thus implying that a pragmatic research paradigm was employed to conduct the study. The key findings of this study revealed that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area do perform the five roles of organised associations. However, the manner in which the roles are performed appears to be of a subpar standard. There are 29 services which are aligned with the five roles which are to be performed by organised associations. With regards to farmers’ associations, 18 of the 29 services are able to obtained by non-members through alternative mediums, at a cost lower than that of the membership fee. This does not entice members to join farmers’ associations because the benefits of membership are not seen. Using the competing values framework, we were able to determine the values incorporated into the daily management of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Based on the data analysis farmers’ associations were found to have an internal outlook. This could be the overarching reason as to why non-members of farmers’ associations are able to access 18 of the 29 services offered without actually being a member of the respective associations. It was concluded that while farmers’ associations do perform the five roles of organised associations, it does not imply that they do so effectively. This is due to the services offered falling under both public and private good categories. The results showed that 18 of the services offered were classified as public goods, which could be the overarching reason for low levels of membership in farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Interestingly, members of farmers’ associations are satisfied with the services offered by farmers’ associations, although the majority of the services which are valued were classified to be public goods. However, the internal outlook portrayed by farmers’ associations could provide an explanation as to why more public than private goods are offered. Not having an external outlook affects the services which are offered, and will not provide associations with an understanding of the services which could attract members to the association. If farmers’ associations were to provide more valued services, and understand what services could be sourced elsewhere, they might increase the probability of satisfying all their members, while potentially attracting new members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Moss, Nicola Joy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4108 , vital:20609
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to analyse the current roles that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area fulfil, by determining their current practices, describing the internal measures of effectiveness, and to explain why there are some farmers’ who do not belong to farmers’ associations. In doing this, the researcher was able to determine whether maintaining the status quo would effectively satisfy the members of farmers’ associations. In turn, recommendations were made to farmers’ associations on the roles which could be improved, in order to obtain a higher level of satisfaction among members. In order to achieve the primary aim of the study, interviews were conducted and questionnaires were administered to members of, non-members of, and chairpersons of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area, thus implying that a pragmatic research paradigm was employed to conduct the study. The key findings of this study revealed that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area do perform the five roles of organised associations. However, the manner in which the roles are performed appears to be of a subpar standard. There are 29 services which are aligned with the five roles which are to be performed by organised associations. With regards to farmers’ associations, 18 of the 29 services are able to obtained by non-members through alternative mediums, at a cost lower than that of the membership fee. This does not entice members to join farmers’ associations because the benefits of membership are not seen. Using the competing values framework, we were able to determine the values incorporated into the daily management of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Based on the data analysis farmers’ associations were found to have an internal outlook. This could be the overarching reason as to why non-members of farmers’ associations are able to access 18 of the 29 services offered without actually being a member of the respective associations. It was concluded that while farmers’ associations do perform the five roles of organised associations, it does not imply that they do so effectively. This is due to the services offered falling under both public and private good categories. The results showed that 18 of the services offered were classified as public goods, which could be the overarching reason for low levels of membership in farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Interestingly, members of farmers’ associations are satisfied with the services offered by farmers’ associations, although the majority of the services which are valued were classified to be public goods. However, the internal outlook portrayed by farmers’ associations could provide an explanation as to why more public than private goods are offered. Not having an external outlook affects the services which are offered, and will not provide associations with an understanding of the services which could attract members to the association. If farmers’ associations were to provide more valued services, and understand what services could be sourced elsewhere, they might increase the probability of satisfying all their members, while potentially attracting new members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The benefits of an extra-curricular 'reading for enjoyment' programme for primary school learners
- Authors: Trytsman, Jaclyn Wendy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Literacy programs , Student activities , Holistic education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7213 , vital:21303
- Description: Changing perceptions of literacy over the past few decades have produced new approaches to the problem of how best to improve the literacy competence of primary school learners. Literacy remains a continuous problem in South Africa, as learners lack motivation to read or are struggling to read, write, and learn in a language that is unfamiliar to them. Researchers such as Street (2005) believe that literacy should not be viewed only as a set of skills to be mastered, but rather as something which must be understood in its broader social context. In accordance with this theory, the South African organisation PRAESA uses their Nal'ibali campaign to promote 'reading for enjoyment' and the formation of 'reading clubs' in order to improve learners' motivation to read and thus their literacy competence by increasing their exposure to pleasurable reading experiences. In this study it is argued that reading for enjoyment is beneficial to primary school learners' literacy competence as well as their personal and social development. In this study, Grade 5, 6, and 7 learners belonging to the reading club at a primary school in Port Elizabeth were observed over a six-month period. Data was collected through ethnographic observation of the reading club sessions and compiled into a detailed expository and sequential report. This narrative was then analysed in order to determine to what extent the learners had benefited in terms of their development from their participation in the reading club's activities. The analysis of the narrative demonstrated that learners' literacy competence, as well as personal and social skills such as self-confidence and tolerance, had been enhanced by the learners' voluntary participation in enjoyment-centred experiences with literacy. The findings of this study demonstrate that, in under-resourced schools and communities lacking a strong reading culture, an extra-curricular 'reading club' with a focus on reading for enjoyment was able to improve learners' literacy skills and provide opportunities for holistic growth by increasing learners' motivation to read.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Trytsman, Jaclyn Wendy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Literacy programs , Student activities , Holistic education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7213 , vital:21303
- Description: Changing perceptions of literacy over the past few decades have produced new approaches to the problem of how best to improve the literacy competence of primary school learners. Literacy remains a continuous problem in South Africa, as learners lack motivation to read or are struggling to read, write, and learn in a language that is unfamiliar to them. Researchers such as Street (2005) believe that literacy should not be viewed only as a set of skills to be mastered, but rather as something which must be understood in its broader social context. In accordance with this theory, the South African organisation PRAESA uses their Nal'ibali campaign to promote 'reading for enjoyment' and the formation of 'reading clubs' in order to improve learners' motivation to read and thus their literacy competence by increasing their exposure to pleasurable reading experiences. In this study it is argued that reading for enjoyment is beneficial to primary school learners' literacy competence as well as their personal and social development. In this study, Grade 5, 6, and 7 learners belonging to the reading club at a primary school in Port Elizabeth were observed over a six-month period. Data was collected through ethnographic observation of the reading club sessions and compiled into a detailed expository and sequential report. This narrative was then analysed in order to determine to what extent the learners had benefited in terms of their development from their participation in the reading club's activities. The analysis of the narrative demonstrated that learners' literacy competence, as well as personal and social skills such as self-confidence and tolerance, had been enhanced by the learners' voluntary participation in enjoyment-centred experiences with literacy. The findings of this study demonstrate that, in under-resourced schools and communities lacking a strong reading culture, an extra-curricular 'reading club' with a focus on reading for enjoyment was able to improve learners' literacy skills and provide opportunities for holistic growth by increasing learners' motivation to read.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Accomodation managers' perceptions towards disability service provision
- Authors: Ferreira, Erika
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: People with disabilities--Travel--South africa People with disabilities--Services for--South africa Tourism--Social Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5473 , vital:20848
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that travellers with disabilities are becoming an important emerging market segment in the tourism industry worldwide. As the demand for accessible tourism increases, the need for accessible accommodation and disability service provision grows. A search of the international and South African tourism literature revealed few studies with a focus on the supply side of accessible accommodation for persons with disabilities, in particular from the perspective of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. To obtain a broad understanding of the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipal area is a challenge which needs to be investigated. From the literature overview it was possible to conceptualize disability; provide a background on existing international and national policies as well as legislative frameworks required in creating an accessible environment that is conducive for persons with disabilities; identify commonalities that exist in supply side literature findings of accessible tourism and to ascertain South African initiatives introduced to create accessible tourist accommodation. This enabled the researcher to develop a research instrument to explore the perceptions of accommodation managers towards servicing the needs of persons with disabilities and the perceptions of accommodation managers towards the importance of disability provision.The primary objective of this exploratory study is to investigate the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. A framework to investigate this was developed and three hypotheses formulated and empirically tested. The results of the descriptive statistics showed that, overall, the different aspects of disability service provision were perceived positively and as important. Further data analysis revealed a statistical significant relationship between the respondents’ employment position or function within the accommodation establishment, and the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. A statistical significant relationship between the age of respondents, and the perceived importance of disability service provision was shown. Two of the three hypotheses were accepted. The data gathered in this study is important as it indicated that accommodation managers are aware that people with disabilities require certain levels of accessibility when planning trips. As all exploratory research, this study proposes further research to discover the constraints faced by accommodation managers to service the needs of persons with disabilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ferreira, Erika
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: People with disabilities--Travel--South africa People with disabilities--Services for--South africa Tourism--Social Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5473 , vital:20848
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that travellers with disabilities are becoming an important emerging market segment in the tourism industry worldwide. As the demand for accessible tourism increases, the need for accessible accommodation and disability service provision grows. A search of the international and South African tourism literature revealed few studies with a focus on the supply side of accessible accommodation for persons with disabilities, in particular from the perspective of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. To obtain a broad understanding of the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipal area is a challenge which needs to be investigated. From the literature overview it was possible to conceptualize disability; provide a background on existing international and national policies as well as legislative frameworks required in creating an accessible environment that is conducive for persons with disabilities; identify commonalities that exist in supply side literature findings of accessible tourism and to ascertain South African initiatives introduced to create accessible tourist accommodation. This enabled the researcher to develop a research instrument to explore the perceptions of accommodation managers towards servicing the needs of persons with disabilities and the perceptions of accommodation managers towards the importance of disability provision.The primary objective of this exploratory study is to investigate the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. A framework to investigate this was developed and three hypotheses formulated and empirically tested. The results of the descriptive statistics showed that, overall, the different aspects of disability service provision were perceived positively and as important. Further data analysis revealed a statistical significant relationship between the respondents’ employment position or function within the accommodation establishment, and the perceptions of accommodation managers towards disability service provision. A statistical significant relationship between the age of respondents, and the perceived importance of disability service provision was shown. Two of the three hypotheses were accepted. The data gathered in this study is important as it indicated that accommodation managers are aware that people with disabilities require certain levels of accessibility when planning trips. As all exploratory research, this study proposes further research to discover the constraints faced by accommodation managers to service the needs of persons with disabilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016