A critical analysis of challenges facing developmental local government : a case study of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Tsatsire, Israel
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (Eastern Cape, South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8239 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/778 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (Eastern Cape, South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This thesis investigates the challenges facing developmental local government in South Africa, using the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality as a reference. The thesis comprises eight chapters. The study is based on the assumption that the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, like other municipalities in South Africa, is confronted by numerous challenges in implementing its constitutional developmental mandate conferred on it by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996. It is vital that local government understands and contextualises these challenges, so that appropriate interventions may be developed. The widespread recent service delivery protests which, in many instances, have turned violent, have sounded an alarm that cannot be ignored. If local government is already struggling to fulfill its traditional mandate of service delivery, then it would find it difficult to spearhead social and economic transformation and development. This study proposes to provide a brief historical background on the evolution and transformation of local government in South Africa. Issues such as the new status and developmental mandate of local government, the extent to which local government has succeeded in complying with its developmental mandate, as well as the challenges it has encountered along the way, will be addressed. Recommendations are presented on how the existing status quo can be changed to enhance service delivery and development and enable low government to fulfil its developmental role more efficient and effectively, with particular reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The empirical survey and research methodology employed in the study is described. This is followed by the operationalisation of the survey questionnaire used for gathering the data needed for analysis. The research findings of the empirical survey are then statistically analysed and reported. The concept of models is introduced, and selected models are explained. This is followed by an explanation of the proposed normative model for monitoring and evaluating service delivery and development in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, for possible replication in other South African municipalities. Various recommendations flowing from the results of the empirical study, namely the responses made by the respondents during the empirical survey, are proposed in the final chapter. If adopted, these recommendations will enable the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality to deal with the developmental challenges facing it, ultimately rendering the Municipality a more efficient and effective developmental agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Tsatsire, Israel
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (Eastern Cape, South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8239 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/778 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (Eastern Cape, South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This thesis investigates the challenges facing developmental local government in South Africa, using the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality as a reference. The thesis comprises eight chapters. The study is based on the assumption that the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, like other municipalities in South Africa, is confronted by numerous challenges in implementing its constitutional developmental mandate conferred on it by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996. It is vital that local government understands and contextualises these challenges, so that appropriate interventions may be developed. The widespread recent service delivery protests which, in many instances, have turned violent, have sounded an alarm that cannot be ignored. If local government is already struggling to fulfill its traditional mandate of service delivery, then it would find it difficult to spearhead social and economic transformation and development. This study proposes to provide a brief historical background on the evolution and transformation of local government in South Africa. Issues such as the new status and developmental mandate of local government, the extent to which local government has succeeded in complying with its developmental mandate, as well as the challenges it has encountered along the way, will be addressed. Recommendations are presented on how the existing status quo can be changed to enhance service delivery and development and enable low government to fulfil its developmental role more efficient and effectively, with particular reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The empirical survey and research methodology employed in the study is described. This is followed by the operationalisation of the survey questionnaire used for gathering the data needed for analysis. The research findings of the empirical survey are then statistically analysed and reported. The concept of models is introduced, and selected models are explained. This is followed by an explanation of the proposed normative model for monitoring and evaluating service delivery and development in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, for possible replication in other South African municipalities. Various recommendations flowing from the results of the empirical study, namely the responses made by the respondents during the empirical survey, are proposed in the final chapter. If adopted, these recommendations will enable the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality to deal with the developmental challenges facing it, ultimately rendering the Municipality a more efficient and effective developmental agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A critical analysis of the portrayal of women in some selected Xhosa dramas
- Authors: Mntanga, Overman Mziwakhe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Xhosa literature , Culture in motion pictures , Gender identity in motion pictures , Women -- Africa -- Drama , Xhosa (African people) -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DLitt
- Identifier: vital:8458 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1030 , Xhosa literature , Culture in motion pictures , Gender identity in motion pictures , Women -- Africa -- Drama , Xhosa (African people) -- Conduct of life
- Description: This thesis entitled “a critical analysis of the portrayal of women in some selected Xhosa dramas”, endeavours to examine the effect of gender inequality. Women who are iv submissive toward some cultural aspects. It endeavours to give a critical analysis of women’s self assertion in some selected Xhosa dramas. According to the findings in this study, in African tradition women like to enforce patriarchy upon younger women. Older women feel that they have the duty of passing on cultural practices from generation to generation. Everything from manner of dress, posture, appropriate seating positions, eating patterns, performance of household chores, sexual expression, and voice tone and infection, self-esteem and self-concept, flows from the gender one is assigned at birth. From birth then, women and men are set on different physically based psychological paths. Of all the obstacles that limit the advancement of women, those touching upon knowledge and values are the most difficult to remove. When a woman lacks the independent capacity to assert her own positive truths and values, she is unable to contribute her insights and experiences to the various fields of human knowledge. When denied opportunities for higher forms of self expression, women may out of frustration attack the modes of understanding upheld by men. In this study theories such as black criticism, psychoanalysis, feminism and African womanism are relevant for discussing the portrayal of women. The descriptive method of research has been applied. Both observation and participation have been used for exposing barriers that block the development of women. This study will enable literature students and researchers to view culture in a broader perspective. It will enable them to consider conventions which determine the way human experience is presented in literature. Chapter one provides literature students and the researchers with a broad overview about how to develop an introductory perspective. Chapter two aims at developing a theoretical framework which serves as the basis of this study. Chapter three examines the effect of gender inequality. It opens an area of extensive examination that differentiates sexual practice from the sexual roles assigned to women and men. Chapter four examines women who are submissive or radical in some cultural aspects. Chapter five discusses women’s self assertion. Chapter six concludes this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Mntanga, Overman Mziwakhe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Xhosa literature , Culture in motion pictures , Gender identity in motion pictures , Women -- Africa -- Drama , Xhosa (African people) -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DLitt
- Identifier: vital:8458 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1030 , Xhosa literature , Culture in motion pictures , Gender identity in motion pictures , Women -- Africa -- Drama , Xhosa (African people) -- Conduct of life
- Description: This thesis entitled “a critical analysis of the portrayal of women in some selected Xhosa dramas”, endeavours to examine the effect of gender inequality. Women who are iv submissive toward some cultural aspects. It endeavours to give a critical analysis of women’s self assertion in some selected Xhosa dramas. According to the findings in this study, in African tradition women like to enforce patriarchy upon younger women. Older women feel that they have the duty of passing on cultural practices from generation to generation. Everything from manner of dress, posture, appropriate seating positions, eating patterns, performance of household chores, sexual expression, and voice tone and infection, self-esteem and self-concept, flows from the gender one is assigned at birth. From birth then, women and men are set on different physically based psychological paths. Of all the obstacles that limit the advancement of women, those touching upon knowledge and values are the most difficult to remove. When a woman lacks the independent capacity to assert her own positive truths and values, she is unable to contribute her insights and experiences to the various fields of human knowledge. When denied opportunities for higher forms of self expression, women may out of frustration attack the modes of understanding upheld by men. In this study theories such as black criticism, psychoanalysis, feminism and African womanism are relevant for discussing the portrayal of women. The descriptive method of research has been applied. Both observation and participation have been used for exposing barriers that block the development of women. This study will enable literature students and researchers to view culture in a broader perspective. It will enable them to consider conventions which determine the way human experience is presented in literature. Chapter one provides literature students and the researchers with a broad overview about how to develop an introductory perspective. Chapter two aims at developing a theoretical framework which serves as the basis of this study. Chapter three examines the effect of gender inequality. It opens an area of extensive examination that differentiates sexual practice from the sexual roles assigned to women and men. Chapter four examines women who are submissive or radical in some cultural aspects. Chapter five discusses women’s self assertion. Chapter six concludes this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A critical ethnography of HIV-positive women attending public health care facilities in Gauteng
- Authors: Du Plessis, Gretchen Erika
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: HIV-positive women -- South Africa -- Gauteng , HIV-positive women -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/777 , HIV-positive women -- South Africa -- Gauteng , HIV-positive women -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Description: Women living with HIV have a variety of reproductive health and psychosocial needs. The purpose of this critical ethnographic study was to examine how HIV, empowerment and reproduction are experienced by a volunteer sample of HIVpositive women attending public health care facilities in Gauteng. Feminist and critical approaches were used to guide the methodology of the research and the interpretation of the findings. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observation. An overview of literature pertaining to the social construction of HIV-AIDS, women’s empowerment and reproductive decision-making is presented. A discourse of “healthy lifestyle” as technologies of the self is considered. Women’s empowerment as an ideal is described and structural barriers to its achievement are discussed. Stigma and discrimination as products of hegemony are discussed as important issues in the disempowerment of women living with HIV. HIV-AIDS as illness experience is reviewed with reference to the social context and to the individual context. Reproductive decision-making models and theories are critically analysed for their applicability to women living with HIV. The need for a conceptual shift in the notion of empowerment in order to understand constrained decision-making for women living with HIV is propagated. The stories of women living with HIV and dependent on public health care services are presented. Through the principles of a critical ethnography the lived experiences of these women are described by means of emerging themes. A historiography of family planning and HIV-AIDS services throws the narrations of the research participants into broader historic relief. Findings revealed that biomedical hegemonic power contoured and marked the lived experiences of women following an HIV-positive diagnosis. Taken-for-granted views of passivity and of own responsibilities regarding reproductive health are challenged. The women in the study were dependent upon public health care personnel for treatment, testing, dietary advice/supplementation and recommendations for a social xii disability grant. ARV-treatment was regarded as a low point in the illness career. All of the participants reported that the overriding problems in their lives were having too few material resources and not having the means to change this. This made them vulnerable to compounded health problems and decreased their ability to voice their own opinions about treatment. They did not regard themselves as having been at risk for contracting HIV and some harboured resentment towards men who were seen as being absolved from testing and responsibilities towards female partners, born and unborn children. Women who were not tested as part of antenatal sentinel groups tended to suffer symptoms of ill health for some time prior to being tested for HIV. Social support systems were either absent or consisted of trusted family members and friends. In many cases, women became the silent care-givers for those affected and infected by HIV. Anticipated stigma permeated the participants’ narrations of living with HIV and disclosure of their statuses was difficult. The use of male condoms, stressed during counselling sessions, was narrated as a difficult burden for women to bear. Although the research participants expressed low fertility preferences, HIV-AIDS was seen as disrupting the link between heterosexual conjugal relations and the taken-for-grantedness of procreation. HIV-AIDS also disrupted norms in infant feeding practices and bottle-feeding was regarded as a sign of possible HIV-infection and hidden. The research participants were not empowered with knowledge about how to deal with side-effects, condom failures and the reluctance of male partners to be tested for HIV. They enacted, resisted and lived with HIV in different ways, incorporating some of the biomedically prescribed posturing as women living positively and blending it with stigma-negating performances and gender-prescribed ways of dressing, walking and acting. Participation in a support group validated their experiences and promoted positive self-perception. The formation of a collective voice in the support group was hampered by irregular attendance, the interference of community leaders and horizontal violence. Power relations, yielded by biomedical hegemony, androcentric sociocultural practices, material deprivation, fear, discrimination and stigma potentially undermined the women’s abilities to become empowered. Expansion of choices in various spheres or fields and collective action xiii are proposed as dimensions to be added to an empowerment-of-women approach to the problems of reproductive health in the age of HIV-AIDS. The contribution of the study as an emancipatory project is evaluated and implications for policy and practice are suggested. On a methodological level, this study is a demonstration of the contribution to be made by a micro-level, critical analysis to the body of knowledge about female reproductive health in the era of HIV-AIDS in South Africa. On a theoretical level, this study contributes to a wider conceptualisation of women’s empowerment by recognising the interplay between micro-level elements of situated experience, knowledge and preferences and the macro-level elements of sociocultural, biomedical and material influences on health and reproductive behavior.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Du Plessis, Gretchen Erika
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: HIV-positive women -- South Africa -- Gauteng , HIV-positive women -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/777 , HIV-positive women -- South Africa -- Gauteng , HIV-positive women -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Description: Women living with HIV have a variety of reproductive health and psychosocial needs. The purpose of this critical ethnographic study was to examine how HIV, empowerment and reproduction are experienced by a volunteer sample of HIVpositive women attending public health care facilities in Gauteng. Feminist and critical approaches were used to guide the methodology of the research and the interpretation of the findings. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observation. An overview of literature pertaining to the social construction of HIV-AIDS, women’s empowerment and reproductive decision-making is presented. A discourse of “healthy lifestyle” as technologies of the self is considered. Women’s empowerment as an ideal is described and structural barriers to its achievement are discussed. Stigma and discrimination as products of hegemony are discussed as important issues in the disempowerment of women living with HIV. HIV-AIDS as illness experience is reviewed with reference to the social context and to the individual context. Reproductive decision-making models and theories are critically analysed for their applicability to women living with HIV. The need for a conceptual shift in the notion of empowerment in order to understand constrained decision-making for women living with HIV is propagated. The stories of women living with HIV and dependent on public health care services are presented. Through the principles of a critical ethnography the lived experiences of these women are described by means of emerging themes. A historiography of family planning and HIV-AIDS services throws the narrations of the research participants into broader historic relief. Findings revealed that biomedical hegemonic power contoured and marked the lived experiences of women following an HIV-positive diagnosis. Taken-for-granted views of passivity and of own responsibilities regarding reproductive health are challenged. The women in the study were dependent upon public health care personnel for treatment, testing, dietary advice/supplementation and recommendations for a social xii disability grant. ARV-treatment was regarded as a low point in the illness career. All of the participants reported that the overriding problems in their lives were having too few material resources and not having the means to change this. This made them vulnerable to compounded health problems and decreased their ability to voice their own opinions about treatment. They did not regard themselves as having been at risk for contracting HIV and some harboured resentment towards men who were seen as being absolved from testing and responsibilities towards female partners, born and unborn children. Women who were not tested as part of antenatal sentinel groups tended to suffer symptoms of ill health for some time prior to being tested for HIV. Social support systems were either absent or consisted of trusted family members and friends. In many cases, women became the silent care-givers for those affected and infected by HIV. Anticipated stigma permeated the participants’ narrations of living with HIV and disclosure of their statuses was difficult. The use of male condoms, stressed during counselling sessions, was narrated as a difficult burden for women to bear. Although the research participants expressed low fertility preferences, HIV-AIDS was seen as disrupting the link between heterosexual conjugal relations and the taken-for-grantedness of procreation. HIV-AIDS also disrupted norms in infant feeding practices and bottle-feeding was regarded as a sign of possible HIV-infection and hidden. The research participants were not empowered with knowledge about how to deal with side-effects, condom failures and the reluctance of male partners to be tested for HIV. They enacted, resisted and lived with HIV in different ways, incorporating some of the biomedically prescribed posturing as women living positively and blending it with stigma-negating performances and gender-prescribed ways of dressing, walking and acting. Participation in a support group validated their experiences and promoted positive self-perception. The formation of a collective voice in the support group was hampered by irregular attendance, the interference of community leaders and horizontal violence. Power relations, yielded by biomedical hegemony, androcentric sociocultural practices, material deprivation, fear, discrimination and stigma potentially undermined the women’s abilities to become empowered. Expansion of choices in various spheres or fields and collective action xiii are proposed as dimensions to be added to an empowerment-of-women approach to the problems of reproductive health in the age of HIV-AIDS. The contribution of the study as an emancipatory project is evaluated and implications for policy and practice are suggested. On a methodological level, this study is a demonstration of the contribution to be made by a micro-level, critical analysis to the body of knowledge about female reproductive health in the era of HIV-AIDS in South Africa. On a theoretical level, this study contributes to a wider conceptualisation of women’s empowerment by recognising the interplay between micro-level elements of situated experience, knowledge and preferences and the macro-level elements of sociocultural, biomedical and material influences on health and reproductive behavior.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A historic-hermeneutic critique of luthiery with specific reference to selected South African guiter builders
- Authors: Bower, Rudi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Guitar -- Construction , Guitar -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8512 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/779 , Guitar -- Construction , Guitar -- History
- Description: This study uses a general historical overview of luthiery that provides the reader with a basic understanding of construction techniques and terminology as a point of departure. From the outset the lack of consensus over an ideal or desired construction technique is highlighted. However, Torres is credited with the establishing of a perceived Spanish tradition of guitar construction and acknowledged as the “father” of the modern guitar. This will serve as a basic framework in which a discussion of six prominent past and present international luthiers can occur. These luthiers, namely Antonio de Torres, Hermann Hauser, Robert Bouchet, Daniel Friederich, Jose Romanillos and Greg Smallman are included in this study by virtue of their influence on the South African luthiers that are featured here. It is noted that these six luthiers, with the exception of Greg Smallman, all adhere to the “Spanish tradition” of guitar construction. Smallman can be considered a foremost proponent of a more recent “modern” school of guitar construction characterized by various innovative construction techniques. These are a result of new demands placed on the guitar as performance instrument because of larger concert venues and more collaboration with different instruments, resulting in a need for a stronger tone and more projection and penetration in sound. These two “poles” of luthiery are then manifested in the discussion on the seven featured South African luthiers. Alistair Thompson, Colin Cleveland, Mervyn Davis, Garth Pickard, Marc Maingard, Rodney Stedall and Hans van den Berg are discussed with special mention made of the features of their instruments, woods used and thoughts on luthiery, against the backdrop of their biographies. The four South African luthiers who build within the “Spanish tradition” (Pickard, Maingard, Stedall and Van den Berg) are distinguished from the three who build outside this so-called tradition (Thompson, Cleveland, Davis). South African luthiery is therefore shown to be an accurate microcosm of luthiery in global terms with styles of construction ranging from very “traditional” to very “modern”. The critical reflection on the information contained in this study appears in the form of a hermeneutic critique on luthiery that occurs within the parameters of the thought of two prominent hermeneutic thinkers, Martin Heidegger and his student, Hans-Georg Gadamer. It is shown that the collaboration that often occurs between guitar makers and performers can be related back to Gadamer and his analysis of Heidegger’s notion of the the hermeneutic circle. It is also argued that luthiery as practiced by the international and South African luthiers featured in this study can be seen both as art and technology in ancient Greek terms in that they are both a mode of revealing. Finally, it is shown how luthiery in its entirety can be viewed as a tradition and that different luthiers respond and add to this tradition in various ways.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Bower, Rudi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Guitar -- Construction , Guitar -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8512 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/779 , Guitar -- Construction , Guitar -- History
- Description: This study uses a general historical overview of luthiery that provides the reader with a basic understanding of construction techniques and terminology as a point of departure. From the outset the lack of consensus over an ideal or desired construction technique is highlighted. However, Torres is credited with the establishing of a perceived Spanish tradition of guitar construction and acknowledged as the “father” of the modern guitar. This will serve as a basic framework in which a discussion of six prominent past and present international luthiers can occur. These luthiers, namely Antonio de Torres, Hermann Hauser, Robert Bouchet, Daniel Friederich, Jose Romanillos and Greg Smallman are included in this study by virtue of their influence on the South African luthiers that are featured here. It is noted that these six luthiers, with the exception of Greg Smallman, all adhere to the “Spanish tradition” of guitar construction. Smallman can be considered a foremost proponent of a more recent “modern” school of guitar construction characterized by various innovative construction techniques. These are a result of new demands placed on the guitar as performance instrument because of larger concert venues and more collaboration with different instruments, resulting in a need for a stronger tone and more projection and penetration in sound. These two “poles” of luthiery are then manifested in the discussion on the seven featured South African luthiers. Alistair Thompson, Colin Cleveland, Mervyn Davis, Garth Pickard, Marc Maingard, Rodney Stedall and Hans van den Berg are discussed with special mention made of the features of their instruments, woods used and thoughts on luthiery, against the backdrop of their biographies. The four South African luthiers who build within the “Spanish tradition” (Pickard, Maingard, Stedall and Van den Berg) are distinguished from the three who build outside this so-called tradition (Thompson, Cleveland, Davis). South African luthiery is therefore shown to be an accurate microcosm of luthiery in global terms with styles of construction ranging from very “traditional” to very “modern”. The critical reflection on the information contained in this study appears in the form of a hermeneutic critique on luthiery that occurs within the parameters of the thought of two prominent hermeneutic thinkers, Martin Heidegger and his student, Hans-Georg Gadamer. It is shown that the collaboration that often occurs between guitar makers and performers can be related back to Gadamer and his analysis of Heidegger’s notion of the the hermeneutic circle. It is also argued that luthiery as practiced by the international and South African luthiers featured in this study can be seen both as art and technology in ancient Greek terms in that they are both a mode of revealing. Finally, it is shown how luthiery in its entirety can be viewed as a tradition and that different luthiers respond and add to this tradition in various ways.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A holistic healthcare model for higher education campus health services
- Authors: Ricks, Esmeralda Jennifer
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: College students -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10038 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/666 , College students -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Most students are adolescents and young adults, a group characterized by a new-found sense of independence, experimentation with sex and sometimes drugs and a feeling of invincibility (Gayle, Richard, Keeling, Garcia-Tunon, Kilbourne, Narkunas, Ingram, rogers and Curran, 1990:1538). These behavioural, developmental and environmental issues may contribute to premature morbidity, mortality and reduced quality of life for university students (Patrick et al., 1992:260). The ages of staff on the other hand range from young adults to retirement age. The types of health problems that exist among staff who use the campus health service include First Aid treatment on site for injuries on duty and more chronic health problems such as, for example, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. To date there is very little evidence as to whether or not the healthcare needs of students and staff are being met comprehensively or whether the practitioners rendering the service are knowledgeable and complying with the PHC norms and standards developed by the department of Health’s Quality Assurance Directorate. The lack of such empirical data can contribute to misconceptions and hamper the management of public health problems experienced in SA, for example sexually transmitted infections and the transmission of HIV. Thus the purpose of this research was to develop a model that would assist registered nurses employed at a higher education campus health service in the Western Region of the Eastern Cape Province to render a healthcare service relevant to the healthcare needs of the students and staff on campus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Ricks, Esmeralda Jennifer
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: College students -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10038 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/666 , College students -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Most students are adolescents and young adults, a group characterized by a new-found sense of independence, experimentation with sex and sometimes drugs and a feeling of invincibility (Gayle, Richard, Keeling, Garcia-Tunon, Kilbourne, Narkunas, Ingram, rogers and Curran, 1990:1538). These behavioural, developmental and environmental issues may contribute to premature morbidity, mortality and reduced quality of life for university students (Patrick et al., 1992:260). The ages of staff on the other hand range from young adults to retirement age. The types of health problems that exist among staff who use the campus health service include First Aid treatment on site for injuries on duty and more chronic health problems such as, for example, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. To date there is very little evidence as to whether or not the healthcare needs of students and staff are being met comprehensively or whether the practitioners rendering the service are knowledgeable and complying with the PHC norms and standards developed by the department of Health’s Quality Assurance Directorate. The lack of such empirical data can contribute to misconceptions and hamper the management of public health problems experienced in SA, for example sexually transmitted infections and the transmission of HIV. Thus the purpose of this research was to develop a model that would assist registered nurses employed at a higher education campus health service in the Western Region of the Eastern Cape Province to render a healthcare service relevant to the healthcare needs of the students and staff on campus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A model for sustainable operational excellence through knowledge management practices and continuous improvement principles
- Beeken, Wilhelm Frederik Hartmann
- Authors: Beeken, Wilhelm Frederik Hartmann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Knowledge management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8699 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1061 , Organizational effectiveness , Knowledge management
- Description: Integrating Knowledge Management maturity with associated Continuous Improvement efforts in order to remain competitive, is absent in most Operational Excellence initiatives. Furthermore, the intertwined relationship of Continuous Improvement and work development becomes a crucial focus area for organisations that wish to establish a continuously evolving management system consisting of core values, methodologies and tools with the aim of creating more satisfied customers with less resources. The old industrial paradigm that focused on labour, capital, materials, and energy viewed technology and knowledge as external influences on production. This framework is now being challenged and a new trend is emerging. This trend seeks to transform the old industrial system to that of a knowledge-based which one can lead to innovation and hence economic advantage. Continuous Improvement as a concept has roots in many other fields, including social-technical system design, human relations progress and the discussion surrounding ‘lean manufacturing’. This study will focus on Continuous Improvement as a noun, referring to on the outcome of the process of a stream of emergent innovations. The primary objective of the study is to create a model that will present an organisation with a three-layer knowledge reference process grid, which will align and depict the surrounding business knowledge functions, knowledge-enabling processes and knowledge-manipulating processes aiming for enabling Operational Excellence. This study promotes the theory that the cognitive domain layer, functional domain layer and resources layer of an organisation can be increasingly stimulated by focusing effort through Continuous Improvement routines towards the associated inter-organisational knowledge processes sustaining Operational Excellence. The proposed model is structured to review, compare, evaluate and integrate existing Knowledge Management practices of ii an organisation within the context of clear definitions for important concepts of Knowledge Management. Additionally the model provides an assessment instrument for evaluating the organisation’s Knowledge Management maturity level. The study concerns itself with two concepts towards business value creation which will lead to increased Operational Excellence. Firstly, the maturity of Knowledge Management processes, and secondly the level of the organisation wide process of focused and continuous incremental improvement namely, Continuous Improvement. A case study with PriceWaterhouseCoopers was concluded and an on-line Internet survey was used with a stratified sample from knowledge workers to test the factors from both a Knowledge Management and Continuous Improvement perspective. These factors were verified by means of a hypotheses network, describing in a structured and descriptive way, the importance of Knowledge Management and Continuous Improvement collectively on sustainable Operational Excellence as an integral development of Operational Excellence. With respect to Knowledge Management practices, the hypothesis network proposed at least three domains, which of knowledge generation, knowledge mobilisation and knowledge application as important input to the proposed process grid of knowledge development and associated layer elements. From a Continuous Improvement principles perspective it is apparent that elements from Continuous Improvement routines and Continuous Improvement characteristics are associated with the organisation Continuous Improvement ability. These findings are also a result of the deliberate design of processes, tools, structures and environments with the intent to increase, renew, share or improve the use of knowledge represented in any of the three elements for structural, human and social of intellectual capital. The proposed model combines the framework of the Boyd cycle as it is conceptualized as self-assessment activities, for it becomes possible to use them as basis of a self-assessment with sense making navigational properties across iii the proposed knowledge process grid for the model. The model will facilitate the concept of a three-layer knowledge reference process grid, which represents the main components of the knowledge processes within the cognitive domain layer, functional layer and resources layer of an organisation. The proposed model will deliver a single value that co-exists with the Knowledge Management maturity level and Continuous Improvement readiness index rating attained. Logical relationships to dynamic, evolving and flexible enabling Knowledge Management practices for each layer of the proposed three-layer knowledge reference process grid will be integrated as output of the proposed model. The research has limitations as Knowledge Management practices were measured using a subjective norm scale. It is suggested that a more comprehensive measure of Knowledge Management maturity processes may be needed to represent this construct. The complexity of the proposed model and the number of associated variables included in the results need further confirmation using possible multiple samples and additional measures of Knowledge Management maturity and Continuous Improvement readiness elements. The benefit of the proposed model as a practical Operational Excellence tool is to overcome the perceived gap of implementing Knowledge Management practices and Continuous Improvement principles collectively to deliver and sustain Operational Excellence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Beeken, Wilhelm Frederik Hartmann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Knowledge management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8699 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1061 , Organizational effectiveness , Knowledge management
- Description: Integrating Knowledge Management maturity with associated Continuous Improvement efforts in order to remain competitive, is absent in most Operational Excellence initiatives. Furthermore, the intertwined relationship of Continuous Improvement and work development becomes a crucial focus area for organisations that wish to establish a continuously evolving management system consisting of core values, methodologies and tools with the aim of creating more satisfied customers with less resources. The old industrial paradigm that focused on labour, capital, materials, and energy viewed technology and knowledge as external influences on production. This framework is now being challenged and a new trend is emerging. This trend seeks to transform the old industrial system to that of a knowledge-based which one can lead to innovation and hence economic advantage. Continuous Improvement as a concept has roots in many other fields, including social-technical system design, human relations progress and the discussion surrounding ‘lean manufacturing’. This study will focus on Continuous Improvement as a noun, referring to on the outcome of the process of a stream of emergent innovations. The primary objective of the study is to create a model that will present an organisation with a three-layer knowledge reference process grid, which will align and depict the surrounding business knowledge functions, knowledge-enabling processes and knowledge-manipulating processes aiming for enabling Operational Excellence. This study promotes the theory that the cognitive domain layer, functional domain layer and resources layer of an organisation can be increasingly stimulated by focusing effort through Continuous Improvement routines towards the associated inter-organisational knowledge processes sustaining Operational Excellence. The proposed model is structured to review, compare, evaluate and integrate existing Knowledge Management practices of ii an organisation within the context of clear definitions for important concepts of Knowledge Management. Additionally the model provides an assessment instrument for evaluating the organisation’s Knowledge Management maturity level. The study concerns itself with two concepts towards business value creation which will lead to increased Operational Excellence. Firstly, the maturity of Knowledge Management processes, and secondly the level of the organisation wide process of focused and continuous incremental improvement namely, Continuous Improvement. A case study with PriceWaterhouseCoopers was concluded and an on-line Internet survey was used with a stratified sample from knowledge workers to test the factors from both a Knowledge Management and Continuous Improvement perspective. These factors were verified by means of a hypotheses network, describing in a structured and descriptive way, the importance of Knowledge Management and Continuous Improvement collectively on sustainable Operational Excellence as an integral development of Operational Excellence. With respect to Knowledge Management practices, the hypothesis network proposed at least three domains, which of knowledge generation, knowledge mobilisation and knowledge application as important input to the proposed process grid of knowledge development and associated layer elements. From a Continuous Improvement principles perspective it is apparent that elements from Continuous Improvement routines and Continuous Improvement characteristics are associated with the organisation Continuous Improvement ability. These findings are also a result of the deliberate design of processes, tools, structures and environments with the intent to increase, renew, share or improve the use of knowledge represented in any of the three elements for structural, human and social of intellectual capital. The proposed model combines the framework of the Boyd cycle as it is conceptualized as self-assessment activities, for it becomes possible to use them as basis of a self-assessment with sense making navigational properties across iii the proposed knowledge process grid for the model. The model will facilitate the concept of a three-layer knowledge reference process grid, which represents the main components of the knowledge processes within the cognitive domain layer, functional layer and resources layer of an organisation. The proposed model will deliver a single value that co-exists with the Knowledge Management maturity level and Continuous Improvement readiness index rating attained. Logical relationships to dynamic, evolving and flexible enabling Knowledge Management practices for each layer of the proposed three-layer knowledge reference process grid will be integrated as output of the proposed model. The research has limitations as Knowledge Management practices were measured using a subjective norm scale. It is suggested that a more comprehensive measure of Knowledge Management maturity processes may be needed to represent this construct. The complexity of the proposed model and the number of associated variables included in the results need further confirmation using possible multiple samples and additional measures of Knowledge Management maturity and Continuous Improvement readiness elements. The benefit of the proposed model as a practical Operational Excellence tool is to overcome the perceived gap of implementing Knowledge Management practices and Continuous Improvement principles collectively to deliver and sustain Operational Excellence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A model to improve the effectiveness of the Occupational Health and Safety Inspectorate function relative to South African construction
- Authors: Geminiani, Franco Luciano
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9695 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/719 , Construction industry -- Safety measures
- Description: Irrespective of all the efforts made by the Department of Labour (DoL) and other relevant stakeholders to improve the performance of Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in construction. In the Construction Industry, there is still a very high level of accidents and fatalities in South Africa. Injuries and accidents to workers do not help a community in any nation. The construction industry in South Africa is generally known to be one of the most hazardous and has one of the most dismal OH&S records among all industrial segments with an unacceptably high level of injuries and fatalities resulting in considerable human suffering. A doctoral study was recently conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness and performance of the DoL OH&S Inspectorate in South Africa. The empirical study was conducted among a range of stakeholders: civil engineering and building contractors; OH&S consultants; project managers; DoL inspectors; and designers by means of a questionnaire survey. The methodology adopted in this study included the exploratory and descriptive methods, which entails the technique of observation including the use of questionnaires and data analysis. The salient findings of the study are presented and elucidate that the DoL OH&S Inspectorate is not effective in terms of OH&S relative to the construction industry in South Africa. Conclusions and recommendations included expound that the DoL OH&S Inspectorate is not effectively conducting their duties reinforcing the need for a reviewed OH&S Inspectorate model framework. The proposed structured normative model consists of fundamental elements which would improve the effectiveness of the DoL OH&S Inspectorate. The findings of the study with recommendations are included.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Geminiani, Franco Luciano
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9695 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/719 , Construction industry -- Safety measures
- Description: Irrespective of all the efforts made by the Department of Labour (DoL) and other relevant stakeholders to improve the performance of Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in construction. In the Construction Industry, there is still a very high level of accidents and fatalities in South Africa. Injuries and accidents to workers do not help a community in any nation. The construction industry in South Africa is generally known to be one of the most hazardous and has one of the most dismal OH&S records among all industrial segments with an unacceptably high level of injuries and fatalities resulting in considerable human suffering. A doctoral study was recently conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness and performance of the DoL OH&S Inspectorate in South Africa. The empirical study was conducted among a range of stakeholders: civil engineering and building contractors; OH&S consultants; project managers; DoL inspectors; and designers by means of a questionnaire survey. The methodology adopted in this study included the exploratory and descriptive methods, which entails the technique of observation including the use of questionnaires and data analysis. The salient findings of the study are presented and elucidate that the DoL OH&S Inspectorate is not effective in terms of OH&S relative to the construction industry in South Africa. Conclusions and recommendations included expound that the DoL OH&S Inspectorate is not effectively conducting their duties reinforcing the need for a reviewed OH&S Inspectorate model framework. The proposed structured normative model consists of fundamental elements which would improve the effectiveness of the DoL OH&S Inspectorate. The findings of the study with recommendations are included.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A reading based theory of teaching appropriate for the South African context
- Authors: Childs, Margaret Mary
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Literacy , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Communicative competence -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9485 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/687 , Literacy , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Communicative competence -- Study and teaching
- Description: The print literacy competencies of many South African teachers and the learners they teach are inadequate. Evidence from local and international evaluations and research attests to this. Based on the understanding that a teacher, whose literacy level is less than adequate, is in a weak position to teach others how to read and write, the imperative to systematically address the issue of poor teacher and learner literacy levels, provided the impetus for a careful investigation of the methodology and theory of the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy. Originally developed in Australia and applied in primary, secondary and tertiary contexts, this literacy pedagogy was described as a means of rapidly improving the literacy competence of all learners, across all subject areas. Using an approach located within the tradition of interpretative educational theory, the meaning of the theory and practice of the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy was explored. As a result of the enquiry undertaken, it was found that the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn approach provides a practical means of enhancing epistemological access. Access of this nature is a precondition for success of learning in schools and in tertiary education. The LR:RL pedagogy provides a carefully structured means of holding literacy at the centre of learning. The sequence of practical steps theoretically rooted in three powerful – but usually separate realms of discourse, is a central contribution of the pedagogy to field of literacy development. Intersecting three discrete disciplines, represented by Bernstein’s model of education as pedagogic discourse, Vygotsky’s model of learning as a social process and Halliday’s model of language as text in social context gives rise to a unique literacy pedagogy. The theory that emerges from use, in a range of situations, over many years, and the carefully sequenced practice, together offer a sound means of addressing the challenges of literacy and learning prevalent in the South African context. iii This thesis argues for a reading based theory of teaching as a means of meeting the challenges of literacy and learning head on. The capacity to learn independently from written text is critical for progress within the schooling and tertiary systems. The Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy provides a means of realizing such a theory of teaching. Simultaneously teaching print literacy, while teaching the content of curricula, is proposed as a way of bringing about effective learning. Within the context of teacher education, the pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) of many teachers is acknowledged to be inadequate. However, there is a key dimension missing for the construct of PCK to be truly useful for South African teachers. Print literacy is as an essential determinant of the knowledge of teachers. The construct of PCK can thus supplemented by foregrounding reading and writing as essential elements of this category of teacher knowledge. Thus the content of the teacher education curriculum is taught as the reading and writing competence of teachers is developed. Similarly, within the school context, the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy can be used to teach required content and teach the requisite high level reading and writing skills needed by all learners to progress successfully through the schooling system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Childs, Margaret Mary
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Literacy , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Communicative competence -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9485 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/687 , Literacy , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Communicative competence -- Study and teaching
- Description: The print literacy competencies of many South African teachers and the learners they teach are inadequate. Evidence from local and international evaluations and research attests to this. Based on the understanding that a teacher, whose literacy level is less than adequate, is in a weak position to teach others how to read and write, the imperative to systematically address the issue of poor teacher and learner literacy levels, provided the impetus for a careful investigation of the methodology and theory of the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy. Originally developed in Australia and applied in primary, secondary and tertiary contexts, this literacy pedagogy was described as a means of rapidly improving the literacy competence of all learners, across all subject areas. Using an approach located within the tradition of interpretative educational theory, the meaning of the theory and practice of the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy was explored. As a result of the enquiry undertaken, it was found that the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn approach provides a practical means of enhancing epistemological access. Access of this nature is a precondition for success of learning in schools and in tertiary education. The LR:RL pedagogy provides a carefully structured means of holding literacy at the centre of learning. The sequence of practical steps theoretically rooted in three powerful – but usually separate realms of discourse, is a central contribution of the pedagogy to field of literacy development. Intersecting three discrete disciplines, represented by Bernstein’s model of education as pedagogic discourse, Vygotsky’s model of learning as a social process and Halliday’s model of language as text in social context gives rise to a unique literacy pedagogy. The theory that emerges from use, in a range of situations, over many years, and the carefully sequenced practice, together offer a sound means of addressing the challenges of literacy and learning prevalent in the South African context. iii This thesis argues for a reading based theory of teaching as a means of meeting the challenges of literacy and learning head on. The capacity to learn independently from written text is critical for progress within the schooling and tertiary systems. The Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy provides a means of realizing such a theory of teaching. Simultaneously teaching print literacy, while teaching the content of curricula, is proposed as a way of bringing about effective learning. Within the context of teacher education, the pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) of many teachers is acknowledged to be inadequate. However, there is a key dimension missing for the construct of PCK to be truly useful for South African teachers. Print literacy is as an essential determinant of the knowledge of teachers. The construct of PCK can thus supplemented by foregrounding reading and writing as essential elements of this category of teacher knowledge. Thus the content of the teacher education curriculum is taught as the reading and writing competence of teachers is developed. Similarly, within the school context, the Learning to Read: Reading to Learn pedagogy can be used to teach required content and teach the requisite high level reading and writing skills needed by all learners to progress successfully through the schooling system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A supplementary coping skills programme for parents of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Authors: Gomes, Ana Maria
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Attention-deficit-disordered children -- Family relationships , Children with disabilities -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9471 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/686
- Description: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-related behaviour difficulties are said to be the cause of much of the disharmony and discord that exists within many families with ADHD-diagnosed children. On the basis of this understanding, a supplementary programme of behaviour modification, referred to as the Coping Skills Programme, was designed and implemented over a designated period of time, as a trial efficiency test, with a view to alleviate some of the family environmental stress caused by the effects of this disorder. There were three main aims to this research project, related to the research questions: Firstly, to establish to what extent this programme helped with the kinds of problems and difficulties being experienced by the parents of ADHD-diagnosed children and by the children themselves; secondly, to make recommendations regarding how to access and use such a programme and learn its skills, and thirdly to determine further ways with which to improve the Coping Skills Programme. The research design was based on Interpretive Theory and was qualitative in nature. An in-depth literature study was undertaken, which together with all the field notes acquired during the course of the study, formed the foundation of the study. A needs analysis was also carried out to ascertain the level and variety of ADHD-related needs that exist within the family unit. This needs analysis took place in the Nelson Mandela Metropole in the Eastern Cape to ascertain the level and variety of ADHD-related needs that exist within the family unit. The sampling selection of participants was both purposeful and dependent on availability, in order obtain as wide a range of information as possible, regarding specific ADHD-related criteria. This data was used as a foundation for the programme’s development. Information was gathered by means of phenomenological interviews, case study analysis, a focus group interview, field notes, observations and an audit trail. Measures were taken to ensure that the study was ethically conducted and trustworthiness maintained. The Coping Skills Programme was implemented with different families with ADHD-diagnosed children, within its designated time, which varied from family to family from between 8 and 10 weeks. Finally, three families were xx selected as case studies to substantiate the findings of this research study. Their selection was based on the range of the children’s age, the variety of their combined needs, the way in which each family dealt with the challenges posed by the programme, the parents’ involvement and the rate of success experienced by each family at the end of the allotted time. At the end of the programme’s implementation period it was found that confusion regarding parental role clarity and the role of the child in the home had a strong bearing on the treatment and management of ADHD-related difficulties. It was also found that the effect of parental unity and/or discord had a direct impact on ADHD-related behaviour. Equally important to the effective management of ADHD-related difficulties were the parental understanding and perceptions regarding their child’s ADHD-related needs and difficulties. The effectiveness of behaviour modification in relation to the level of parental involvement was also salient, as was the use of effective, positive communication to achievement of optimum results. Parental understanding of the role of discipline and how the effective use of this skill benefits the ADHD-diagnosed child became clear, as did the value of consistency in behaviour modification. The conclusion was reached that a programme as flexible as the Coping Skills Programme, when used appropriately and as a supplement to other forms of therapy, may be a significant source of assistance, support, encouragement and empowerment to families with members suffering with ADHD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Gomes, Ana Maria
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Attention-deficit-disordered children -- Family relationships , Children with disabilities -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9471 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/686
- Description: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-related behaviour difficulties are said to be the cause of much of the disharmony and discord that exists within many families with ADHD-diagnosed children. On the basis of this understanding, a supplementary programme of behaviour modification, referred to as the Coping Skills Programme, was designed and implemented over a designated period of time, as a trial efficiency test, with a view to alleviate some of the family environmental stress caused by the effects of this disorder. There were three main aims to this research project, related to the research questions: Firstly, to establish to what extent this programme helped with the kinds of problems and difficulties being experienced by the parents of ADHD-diagnosed children and by the children themselves; secondly, to make recommendations regarding how to access and use such a programme and learn its skills, and thirdly to determine further ways with which to improve the Coping Skills Programme. The research design was based on Interpretive Theory and was qualitative in nature. An in-depth literature study was undertaken, which together with all the field notes acquired during the course of the study, formed the foundation of the study. A needs analysis was also carried out to ascertain the level and variety of ADHD-related needs that exist within the family unit. This needs analysis took place in the Nelson Mandela Metropole in the Eastern Cape to ascertain the level and variety of ADHD-related needs that exist within the family unit. The sampling selection of participants was both purposeful and dependent on availability, in order obtain as wide a range of information as possible, regarding specific ADHD-related criteria. This data was used as a foundation for the programme’s development. Information was gathered by means of phenomenological interviews, case study analysis, a focus group interview, field notes, observations and an audit trail. Measures were taken to ensure that the study was ethically conducted and trustworthiness maintained. The Coping Skills Programme was implemented with different families with ADHD-diagnosed children, within its designated time, which varied from family to family from between 8 and 10 weeks. Finally, three families were xx selected as case studies to substantiate the findings of this research study. Their selection was based on the range of the children’s age, the variety of their combined needs, the way in which each family dealt with the challenges posed by the programme, the parents’ involvement and the rate of success experienced by each family at the end of the allotted time. At the end of the programme’s implementation period it was found that confusion regarding parental role clarity and the role of the child in the home had a strong bearing on the treatment and management of ADHD-related difficulties. It was also found that the effect of parental unity and/or discord had a direct impact on ADHD-related behaviour. Equally important to the effective management of ADHD-related difficulties were the parental understanding and perceptions regarding their child’s ADHD-related needs and difficulties. The effectiveness of behaviour modification in relation to the level of parental involvement was also salient, as was the use of effective, positive communication to achievement of optimum results. Parental understanding of the role of discipline and how the effective use of this skill benefits the ADHD-diagnosed child became clear, as did the value of consistency in behaviour modification. The conclusion was reached that a programme as flexible as the Coping Skills Programme, when used appropriately and as a supplement to other forms of therapy, may be a significant source of assistance, support, encouragement and empowerment to families with members suffering with ADHD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Analysis of leadership styles and school performance of secondary schools in Uganda
- Nsubuga, Yusuf Khalid Kibuuka
- Authors: Nsubuga, Yusuf Khalid Kibuuka
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- Uganda , Education, Secondary -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9525 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/978 , Educational leadership -- Uganda , Education, Secondary -- Uganda
- Description: The study sought to analyze the leadership styles of head teachers and school performance of secondary schools in Uganda. It was a mixed study that used both the qualitative and quantitative methods. It adopted a correlation survey research design that helped in establishing the relationship of leadership styles and school performance. In this regard, data for this study was collected on the independent variable, which was leadership styles, and that of the dependent variable, which was school performance. The relationship between the two variables was investigated in order to determine the strength of their relationship and the coefficients of determination existing between them. Together with observations during school visits, interviews were also conducted with head teachers and teachers and focused group discussions were held with selected students and parents, to identify factors affecting school performance and the effectiveness and relationship between leadership styles and school performance. The researcher discovered on the basis of an extensive literature review and the in-depth research undertaken that head teachers adopt a range of leadership styles. However, for the purposes of this investigation, the researcher examined the relationship between leadership styles in general and school performance, and later analyzed four leadership styles in relation to school performance. v While noting the many challenges and demands made on the head teachers during the execution of their tasks, the study underscored the need for the development of management and leadership skills amongst head teachers. The study established that unless head teachers are well equipped with knowledge and skills in management and leadership, they would not be able to improve school performance significantly. The study established that effective school performance requires visionary leadership, amongst others, and that there is a strong relationship between visionary leadership and transformational leadership, which is recommended for education leaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Nsubuga, Yusuf Khalid Kibuuka
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- Uganda , Education, Secondary -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9525 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/978 , Educational leadership -- Uganda , Education, Secondary -- Uganda
- Description: The study sought to analyze the leadership styles of head teachers and school performance of secondary schools in Uganda. It was a mixed study that used both the qualitative and quantitative methods. It adopted a correlation survey research design that helped in establishing the relationship of leadership styles and school performance. In this regard, data for this study was collected on the independent variable, which was leadership styles, and that of the dependent variable, which was school performance. The relationship between the two variables was investigated in order to determine the strength of their relationship and the coefficients of determination existing between them. Together with observations during school visits, interviews were also conducted with head teachers and teachers and focused group discussions were held with selected students and parents, to identify factors affecting school performance and the effectiveness and relationship between leadership styles and school performance. The researcher discovered on the basis of an extensive literature review and the in-depth research undertaken that head teachers adopt a range of leadership styles. However, for the purposes of this investigation, the researcher examined the relationship between leadership styles in general and school performance, and later analyzed four leadership styles in relation to school performance. v While noting the many challenges and demands made on the head teachers during the execution of their tasks, the study underscored the need for the development of management and leadership skills amongst head teachers. The study established that unless head teachers are well equipped with knowledge and skills in management and leadership, they would not be able to improve school performance significantly. The study established that effective school performance requires visionary leadership, amongst others, and that there is a strong relationship between visionary leadership and transformational leadership, which is recommended for education leaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Black parental involvement in education
- Authors: Mbokodi, Sindiswa Madgie
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa , Parent-teacher relationships -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9518 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1013 , Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa , Parent-teacher relationships -- South Africa
- Description: The study was conducted in the backdrop of Section 24(1)(a) of the South African Schools Act (SASA) 84 of 1996 which promulgated that parents should be involved in the education of their children. To fulfil this requirement, each school is expected to have a legally constituted School Governing Body (SGB) as part of school governance. The involvement of the SGB does not exclude parents involving themselves in school activities as individuals but as organised groups geared towards working on a specific project of the school. Involvement also implies helping the child at home. The study investigated the extent to which black parents involve themselves in school activities as envisaged by the SASA. Conceptual literature relating to issues of parental involvement in school was reviewed. Specifically the concept parent/parental involvement as it relates to black parents was explored. Factors promoting or hindering parental involvement in school were also examined. The research is qualitative. Participants included principals, teachers, learners and chairpersons of school governing bodies of ten selected schools in the major townships of Port Elizabeth. Views and experiences of participants were captured and explained through in-depth interviews and observations. Results are discussed in relation to the relevant literature, allowing grounded theory to emerge. What emerged was a desperate situation of non-involvement of black parents in school activities largely because of the failure of the Department of Education (DoE) to capacitate all parties involved in strategies to involve parents in school. The potential for generalizability and transferability is discussed in the report and possible intervention strategies are recommended at micro- and macro-levels. The study demonstrates that the DoE needs to follow up on its policies to ensure that the envisaged change is realized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Mbokodi, Sindiswa Madgie
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa , Parent-teacher relationships -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9518 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1013 , Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa , Parent-teacher relationships -- South Africa
- Description: The study was conducted in the backdrop of Section 24(1)(a) of the South African Schools Act (SASA) 84 of 1996 which promulgated that parents should be involved in the education of their children. To fulfil this requirement, each school is expected to have a legally constituted School Governing Body (SGB) as part of school governance. The involvement of the SGB does not exclude parents involving themselves in school activities as individuals but as organised groups geared towards working on a specific project of the school. Involvement also implies helping the child at home. The study investigated the extent to which black parents involve themselves in school activities as envisaged by the SASA. Conceptual literature relating to issues of parental involvement in school was reviewed. Specifically the concept parent/parental involvement as it relates to black parents was explored. Factors promoting or hindering parental involvement in school were also examined. The research is qualitative. Participants included principals, teachers, learners and chairpersons of school governing bodies of ten selected schools in the major townships of Port Elizabeth. Views and experiences of participants were captured and explained through in-depth interviews and observations. Results are discussed in relation to the relevant literature, allowing grounded theory to emerge. What emerged was a desperate situation of non-involvement of black parents in school activities largely because of the failure of the Department of Education (DoE) to capacitate all parties involved in strategies to involve parents in school. The potential for generalizability and transferability is discussed in the report and possible intervention strategies are recommended at micro- and macro-levels. The study demonstrates that the DoE needs to follow up on its policies to ensure that the envisaged change is realized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Decentralisation and development: the contradictions of local government in Uganda with specific reference to Masindi and Sembabule districts
- Authors: Galiwango, Wasswa Hassan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- Uganda , Local government -- Uganda , Uganda -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8238 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/780 , Decentralization in government -- Uganda , Local government -- Uganda , Uganda -- Politics and government
- Description: Decentralisation is the process through which Central Government transfers authority and functions to sub-national units of the Government and it traces its origin in Uganda from the “ bush” period (1981 – 1986) when Resistance Committees were established by the NRM/A in the Luwero triangle. The Mamdani Commission Report of 1987 on the Local Government system in Uganda recommended devolution of powers. Subsequently, decentralisation was launched in 1992, constitutionalised by the 1995 Constitution, and operationalised by the Local Governments Act (LGA) in 1997. Among the services devolved were education and health, which this study used as case studies to illustrate whether decentralisation has enhanced development in Uganda during the period 1993 – 2006. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the linkage between decentralisation and development in the two selected districts in Uganda, namely Masindi and Sembabule. Primary data was collected through interviews, questionnaires and focus group discussions while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, reports, legislation and journals. The findings of the study established that if decentralisation is properly planned and implemented it can make a meaningful contribution to enhancing development. However, since decentralisation is a process and not a once-off project, it evolves from one stage to another and, as it does so, it also unfolds new challenges and contradictions that need to be effectively addressed. These challenges include aspects relating to the legal framework, as well as political, fiscal and administrative decentralisation. The study recommended mitigation measures to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, accountability, transparency, and subsequently the quality of services delivered (development) under decentralised local governance in Uganda.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Galiwango, Wasswa Hassan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- Uganda , Local government -- Uganda , Uganda -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8238 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/780 , Decentralization in government -- Uganda , Local government -- Uganda , Uganda -- Politics and government
- Description: Decentralisation is the process through which Central Government transfers authority and functions to sub-national units of the Government and it traces its origin in Uganda from the “ bush” period (1981 – 1986) when Resistance Committees were established by the NRM/A in the Luwero triangle. The Mamdani Commission Report of 1987 on the Local Government system in Uganda recommended devolution of powers. Subsequently, decentralisation was launched in 1992, constitutionalised by the 1995 Constitution, and operationalised by the Local Governments Act (LGA) in 1997. Among the services devolved were education and health, which this study used as case studies to illustrate whether decentralisation has enhanced development in Uganda during the period 1993 – 2006. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the linkage between decentralisation and development in the two selected districts in Uganda, namely Masindi and Sembabule. Primary data was collected through interviews, questionnaires and focus group discussions while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, reports, legislation and journals. The findings of the study established that if decentralisation is properly planned and implemented it can make a meaningful contribution to enhancing development. However, since decentralisation is a process and not a once-off project, it evolves from one stage to another and, as it does so, it also unfolds new challenges and contradictions that need to be effectively addressed. These challenges include aspects relating to the legal framework, as well as political, fiscal and administrative decentralisation. The study recommended mitigation measures to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, accountability, transparency, and subsequently the quality of services delivered (development) under decentralised local governance in Uganda.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Development of a reciprocating aerofoil wind energy harvester
- Authors: Phillips, Russell Leslie
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Windmills , Wind power , Wind turbines
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9622 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/899 , Windmills , Wind power , Wind turbines
- Description: Cross flow wind turbines are not unique. The performance of Savonius and Darrieus turbines is well documented. Both share the advantage of being able to accept fluid flow from any direction. The Savonius is drag based and hence has poor power output while the Darrieus is lift based. Due to the fact that the Darrieus has fixed blades the fluid flow through the rotor does not result in optimal lift being generated at all points in the rotation circle. A drawback of the Darrieus system is that it has to operate at a high tip-to wind-speed ratio to obtain reasonable performance with the fixed blades. Deviation from a small optimal range of tip speed ratios results in poor performance. The Darrieus also has poor starting torque. The research conducted in this project focused on overcoming the shortcomings of other turbines and developing an effective cross flow turbine capable of good performance. A number of different concepts were experimented with, however all were based on a symmetrical aerofoil presented to the actual relative airflow at an angle that would produce the highest lift force at all times. The lift force was then utilized to generate movement and to do work on an electrical generator. All concepts contemplated were researched to ascertain their appropriateness for the intended application. During development of the final experimental platform and after lodging of a provisional patent (RSA 2007/00927) it was ascertained that the design shared some similarities with an American patent 5503525 dated 28/4/1994. This patent employed complex electronic sensing and control equipment for control of blade angle. This was thought to be overly complex and costly, particularly for small scale wind energy generation applications and a simpler mechanical solution was sought in the design of the final experimental platform used in this project. The design of the mechanical control system was refined in an attempt to make it simpler, more durable and employ the least number of moving parts. Literature studies and patent searches conducted, suggested that the mechanical control system as developed for the final experimental platform was unique. The enormous variation in the power available from the wind at the different wind speeds likely to be encountered by the device necessitated some means of control. In high wind conditions control of the amount of wind power into the device was deemed to be the preferable means of control. A number of different concepts to achieve this were devised and tested. The final concept employed limited the tail angle deflection and hence the lift produced by the aerofoils. This resulted in a seamless “throttle” control allowing the device to be used in any wind strength by adjusting the control to a position that resulted in the device receiving a suitable amount of power from the wind. The outcome of performance tests conducted indicated that the device has the potential to be developed into a viable wind turbine for both small and large scale applications. The ability to control the power input from the wind to the machine from zero to a maximum is considered to be one of the most beneficial outcomes of this project and together with the quiet operation and low speed, are considered the main advantages of the device over existing wind turbine designs. The possibilities of using the device to compress air for energy storage are exciting avenues that warrant further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Phillips, Russell Leslie
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Windmills , Wind power , Wind turbines
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9622 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/899 , Windmills , Wind power , Wind turbines
- Description: Cross flow wind turbines are not unique. The performance of Savonius and Darrieus turbines is well documented. Both share the advantage of being able to accept fluid flow from any direction. The Savonius is drag based and hence has poor power output while the Darrieus is lift based. Due to the fact that the Darrieus has fixed blades the fluid flow through the rotor does not result in optimal lift being generated at all points in the rotation circle. A drawback of the Darrieus system is that it has to operate at a high tip-to wind-speed ratio to obtain reasonable performance with the fixed blades. Deviation from a small optimal range of tip speed ratios results in poor performance. The Darrieus also has poor starting torque. The research conducted in this project focused on overcoming the shortcomings of other turbines and developing an effective cross flow turbine capable of good performance. A number of different concepts were experimented with, however all were based on a symmetrical aerofoil presented to the actual relative airflow at an angle that would produce the highest lift force at all times. The lift force was then utilized to generate movement and to do work on an electrical generator. All concepts contemplated were researched to ascertain their appropriateness for the intended application. During development of the final experimental platform and after lodging of a provisional patent (RSA 2007/00927) it was ascertained that the design shared some similarities with an American patent 5503525 dated 28/4/1994. This patent employed complex electronic sensing and control equipment for control of blade angle. This was thought to be overly complex and costly, particularly for small scale wind energy generation applications and a simpler mechanical solution was sought in the design of the final experimental platform used in this project. The design of the mechanical control system was refined in an attempt to make it simpler, more durable and employ the least number of moving parts. Literature studies and patent searches conducted, suggested that the mechanical control system as developed for the final experimental platform was unique. The enormous variation in the power available from the wind at the different wind speeds likely to be encountered by the device necessitated some means of control. In high wind conditions control of the amount of wind power into the device was deemed to be the preferable means of control. A number of different concepts to achieve this were devised and tested. The final concept employed limited the tail angle deflection and hence the lift produced by the aerofoils. This resulted in a seamless “throttle” control allowing the device to be used in any wind strength by adjusting the control to a position that resulted in the device receiving a suitable amount of power from the wind. The outcome of performance tests conducted indicated that the device has the potential to be developed into a viable wind turbine for both small and large scale applications. The ability to control the power input from the wind to the machine from zero to a maximum is considered to be one of the most beneficial outcomes of this project and together with the quiet operation and low speed, are considered the main advantages of the device over existing wind turbine designs. The possibilities of using the device to compress air for energy storage are exciting avenues that warrant further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Exploring the construct-related validity of the eye and hand coordination subscale of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended revised (GMDS-ER)
- Authors: Povey, Jenny-Louise
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9923 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/661 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Description: To constantly add to our understanding of child development, a valid, comprehensive, well-researched measure is needed. The recent revision and standardisation of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales - Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) has necessitated investigations into its psychometric properties. This measure is used to identify developmental delays in children and critical decisions may be made, hence it is imperative that this measure be deemed both reliable and valid. This study aimed to contribute to the broader restandardisation project and focussed on gathering qualitative and quantitative construct-related validity evidence for one of the six Subscales of the GMDS-ER, namely the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale (Subscale D). An exploratory descriptive method using a triangulation approach was used to explore the construct-related validity evidence of the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale. A non-random purposively selected sample of 6 experts, who had worked at least 10 years with children assessing and evaluating the domain of eye-hand coordination, participated in a facet analysis to identify the underlying dimensions tapped by the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale. The sample for the quantitative aspects of this study, the empirical validation of the construct model, was collected as part of the broader restandardisation and represented a stratified sample of 1026 children between the ages 24 months and 96 months from across the United Kingdom and Eire. Three measures, namely a biographical questionnaire, the GMDS-ER and a construct evaluation form were used to gather the qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative data was analysed by means of a facet analysis and literature control which included examining other tests or subtests that tapped eye-hand coordination skills. The quantitative data was analysed by means of exploratory common factor analysis using oblique (DQUART) rotation in order to verify the qualitatively identified construct model by specifying a one-factor solution for each underlying construct. While literature suggests that eye-hand coordination is multidimensional in nature the facet analysis revealed that the tasks tapped by Subscale D were not tapping complex skills aside from eye-hand coordination. The facet analysis thus revealed that all the items tap the eye-hand coordination of fine motor tasks and that these items could be grouped into two categories, using writing utensils and object manipulation. The results from the factor analysis confirmed that the items on Subscale D have one underlying construct and further exploration confirmed that these items could in fact be grouped into two categories. The coefficients of congruence for SES and gender were satisfactory and thus the construct model was validated across these groups as well. The study has provided extensive qualitative and quantitative evidence for the construct-related validity of the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale of the GMDS-ER, thus validating its use as a sound measure of eye-hand coordination development in children aged 2 to 8 years. The content coverage however, seemed to indicate that the tasks required do not adequately cover all the facets of eye-hand coordination and some of these item types are tapped by the other Subscales in the measure. Hence, should the Subscale be used as an independent assessment of eye-hand coordination, the eye-hand coordination development of the child would have a narrow focus. In addition, in reviewing the variety of tasks in the two sections for the older and younger child, the researcher noted that while section III tapped a variety of skills, section IV only focused on skills associated with drawing, copying and writing. A review of the age appropriateness of the items and the item analysis results from the revision seemed to indicate that some of the items assessing the older child may need to be revised. Further, the researcher suggested that the revision should consider adding additional dimensions to the tasks assessed. Overall, it is the researcher‟s opinion that this Subscale was not given adequate attention during the revision process and should future revisions occur, the recommendations from this study should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Povey, Jenny-Louise
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9923 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/661 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Description: To constantly add to our understanding of child development, a valid, comprehensive, well-researched measure is needed. The recent revision and standardisation of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales - Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) has necessitated investigations into its psychometric properties. This measure is used to identify developmental delays in children and critical decisions may be made, hence it is imperative that this measure be deemed both reliable and valid. This study aimed to contribute to the broader restandardisation project and focussed on gathering qualitative and quantitative construct-related validity evidence for one of the six Subscales of the GMDS-ER, namely the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale (Subscale D). An exploratory descriptive method using a triangulation approach was used to explore the construct-related validity evidence of the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale. A non-random purposively selected sample of 6 experts, who had worked at least 10 years with children assessing and evaluating the domain of eye-hand coordination, participated in a facet analysis to identify the underlying dimensions tapped by the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale. The sample for the quantitative aspects of this study, the empirical validation of the construct model, was collected as part of the broader restandardisation and represented a stratified sample of 1026 children between the ages 24 months and 96 months from across the United Kingdom and Eire. Three measures, namely a biographical questionnaire, the GMDS-ER and a construct evaluation form were used to gather the qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative data was analysed by means of a facet analysis and literature control which included examining other tests or subtests that tapped eye-hand coordination skills. The quantitative data was analysed by means of exploratory common factor analysis using oblique (DQUART) rotation in order to verify the qualitatively identified construct model by specifying a one-factor solution for each underlying construct. While literature suggests that eye-hand coordination is multidimensional in nature the facet analysis revealed that the tasks tapped by Subscale D were not tapping complex skills aside from eye-hand coordination. The facet analysis thus revealed that all the items tap the eye-hand coordination of fine motor tasks and that these items could be grouped into two categories, using writing utensils and object manipulation. The results from the factor analysis confirmed that the items on Subscale D have one underlying construct and further exploration confirmed that these items could in fact be grouped into two categories. The coefficients of congruence for SES and gender were satisfactory and thus the construct model was validated across these groups as well. The study has provided extensive qualitative and quantitative evidence for the construct-related validity of the Eye and Hand Coordination Subscale of the GMDS-ER, thus validating its use as a sound measure of eye-hand coordination development in children aged 2 to 8 years. The content coverage however, seemed to indicate that the tasks required do not adequately cover all the facets of eye-hand coordination and some of these item types are tapped by the other Subscales in the measure. Hence, should the Subscale be used as an independent assessment of eye-hand coordination, the eye-hand coordination development of the child would have a narrow focus. In addition, in reviewing the variety of tasks in the two sections for the older and younger child, the researcher noted that while section III tapped a variety of skills, section IV only focused on skills associated with drawing, copying and writing. A review of the age appropriateness of the items and the item analysis results from the revision seemed to indicate that some of the items assessing the older child may need to be revised. Further, the researcher suggested that the revision should consider adding additional dimensions to the tasks assessed. Overall, it is the researcher‟s opinion that this Subscale was not given adequate attention during the revision process and should future revisions occur, the recommendations from this study should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Facilitating reflection in post-graduate writing practice
- Authors: Naidoo, Nadasen Arungasen
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Academic writing , Report writing , Academic writing -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Written communication -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9473 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/688 , Academic writing , Report writing , Academic writing -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Written communication -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Description: University teaching staff are employed because of their knowledge in their particular disciplines. Many do not have a qualification to teach at a higher education institution upon commencement of their academic career. In that group there are few who have the research experience required to assist at postgraduate level. This should be developed as one of the three core activities of higher education, in which they have to be involved. This study is the result of a problem that I encountered as a higher education practitioner. In keeping with my being a practitioner researcher within an action research paradigm, this report is written mainly in the first person. The study reports on how my personal theories grew over a period resulting in the need to constantly improve my own practice. These personal theories culminated in the development of an instrument (ADaM), to assess writing. ADaM was used primarily to facilitate reflection in post-graduate writing practice. In this study, there were three sets of workshops comprising 13 practical sessions each, where lecturers engaged with the process of reading, writing, computer-mediation and, to a limited extent, with the concept of mentorship. The purpose was to answer the research question: Can a writing assessment instrument be used to sensitise staff teaching post-graduates to reflect on the complex nature of producing and assessing academic writing? At two points during the 13 practical sessions, data was gathered through semistructured interviews. The data has been analysed using a form of grounded theory referred to as remodeled grounded theory. Since the analysis traversed both the quantitative and qualitative paradigms of research, it was necessary also to place the study within the third paradigm, referred to as mixed methods research. The analysis has been presented via a series of relationships generated first by open coding, then axial coding and concludes with selective coding. In addition, the comments of an independent coder were used to validate the analysis. In accordance with classic grounded theory, it was only after the analysis of the data and the emergence of a substantive theory that I referred to existing theory in the penultimate chapter as validation of my findings. The findings from the study, together with existing literature, allowed me to conclude that “Creating an awareness of writing assessment sensitises academics to their roles as HE practitioners particularly in the areas of writing and mentorship in post-graduate supervision”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Naidoo, Nadasen Arungasen
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Academic writing , Report writing , Academic writing -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Written communication -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9473 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/688 , Academic writing , Report writing , Academic writing -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Written communication -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Description: University teaching staff are employed because of their knowledge in their particular disciplines. Many do not have a qualification to teach at a higher education institution upon commencement of their academic career. In that group there are few who have the research experience required to assist at postgraduate level. This should be developed as one of the three core activities of higher education, in which they have to be involved. This study is the result of a problem that I encountered as a higher education practitioner. In keeping with my being a practitioner researcher within an action research paradigm, this report is written mainly in the first person. The study reports on how my personal theories grew over a period resulting in the need to constantly improve my own practice. These personal theories culminated in the development of an instrument (ADaM), to assess writing. ADaM was used primarily to facilitate reflection in post-graduate writing practice. In this study, there were three sets of workshops comprising 13 practical sessions each, where lecturers engaged with the process of reading, writing, computer-mediation and, to a limited extent, with the concept of mentorship. The purpose was to answer the research question: Can a writing assessment instrument be used to sensitise staff teaching post-graduates to reflect on the complex nature of producing and assessing academic writing? At two points during the 13 practical sessions, data was gathered through semistructured interviews. The data has been analysed using a form of grounded theory referred to as remodeled grounded theory. Since the analysis traversed both the quantitative and qualitative paradigms of research, it was necessary also to place the study within the third paradigm, referred to as mixed methods research. The analysis has been presented via a series of relationships generated first by open coding, then axial coding and concludes with selective coding. In addition, the comments of an independent coder were used to validate the analysis. In accordance with classic grounded theory, it was only after the analysis of the data and the emergence of a substantive theory that I referred to existing theory in the penultimate chapter as validation of my findings. The findings from the study, together with existing literature, allowed me to conclude that “Creating an awareness of writing assessment sensitises academics to their roles as HE practitioners particularly in the areas of writing and mentorship in post-graduate supervision”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Identification and characterization of novel oncology related platinum complexes using chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques
- Authors: Wentzel, Mauritz
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Chromatographic analysis , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/715 , Chromatographic analysis , Spectrum analysis
- Description: In this thesis mass spectral and chromatographic techniques were developed and applied to identify and characterise numerous novel platinum(II) and (IV) compounds designed as anticancer agents. In a novel method for the synthesis of cis-oxalato(trans- -1,2- cyclohexanediamine)platinum(II) or oxaliplatin these techniques could be applied to differentiate between the molecular complex and the autoionised analogue (viz. Ptdach2 2+Ptox2 2-). In another novel synthetic method for the same compound the ligand exchange reactions at various temperatures could be investigated and kinetic curves obtained served to illuminate the chemistry involved, indicating the role of small amounts of water in the essentially non-aqueous solvent systems dmf and isoamyl alcohol respectively. These allowed ligand exchange without resulting in hydrolyses even up to 85°C. The ionisation rate of divalent platinum halide complexes was determined for various amine ligands as well as N-S chelate ligands. A comparison of these could suggest why N-S complexes have poor anticancer action. Ionisation was not only studied for neutral molecular species but also for monocationic ones. Relationships could be found with stereochemical aspects of the chelates used. By investigating results of EV-CAD studies thermodynamic data could be obtained which indicated that bond strength decreases from chloro to iodo analogues although extent of ionisation in aqueous solution, i.e kinetic stability, is the reverse. Products formed by the reaction of NO2 gas with Platinum(II) compounds could be identified and separated which greatly contributed to the understanding of the chemistry involved in the formation of mononitro platinum(IV) complexes. Some of these proved to have exceptional anticancer properties. Studies of the interaction of thiol containing biomolecules were performed as a function of time. The results contributed to the understanding of the action of the anticancer agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Wentzel, Mauritz
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Chromatographic analysis , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/715 , Chromatographic analysis , Spectrum analysis
- Description: In this thesis mass spectral and chromatographic techniques were developed and applied to identify and characterise numerous novel platinum(II) and (IV) compounds designed as anticancer agents. In a novel method for the synthesis of cis-oxalato(trans- -1,2- cyclohexanediamine)platinum(II) or oxaliplatin these techniques could be applied to differentiate between the molecular complex and the autoionised analogue (viz. Ptdach2 2+Ptox2 2-). In another novel synthetic method for the same compound the ligand exchange reactions at various temperatures could be investigated and kinetic curves obtained served to illuminate the chemistry involved, indicating the role of small amounts of water in the essentially non-aqueous solvent systems dmf and isoamyl alcohol respectively. These allowed ligand exchange without resulting in hydrolyses even up to 85°C. The ionisation rate of divalent platinum halide complexes was determined for various amine ligands as well as N-S chelate ligands. A comparison of these could suggest why N-S complexes have poor anticancer action. Ionisation was not only studied for neutral molecular species but also for monocationic ones. Relationships could be found with stereochemical aspects of the chelates used. By investigating results of EV-CAD studies thermodynamic data could be obtained which indicated that bond strength decreases from chloro to iodo analogues although extent of ionisation in aqueous solution, i.e kinetic stability, is the reverse. Products formed by the reaction of NO2 gas with Platinum(II) compounds could be identified and separated which greatly contributed to the understanding of the chemistry involved in the formation of mononitro platinum(IV) complexes. Some of these proved to have exceptional anticancer properties. Studies of the interaction of thiol containing biomolecules were performed as a function of time. The results contributed to the understanding of the action of the anticancer agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Inter-level health service referral of women in labour
- Authors: Jantjes, Louisa
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Childbirth -- South Africa , Medical referrals -- South Africa , Midwives -- South Africa , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10010 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/986 , Childbirth -- South Africa , Medical referrals -- South Africa , Midwives -- South Africa , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Complications
- Description: Although it is considered an everyday occurrence, childbirth is nonetheless an important and dramatic experience in the life of every woman. Childbirth, a normal physiological state in the life of a woman, can be an awe-inspiring and exciting experience, but sometimes disconcerting experiences may also occur. Women sometimes see labour as the end to a long drawn out process following pregnancy and therefore attribute great significance to all occurrences during labour. When complications occur in a usually uncomplicated process of labour, the health care provider must be able to make quick and effective management decisions and implement appropriate interventions. This may include the referral of women in labour to a level of care where complications can be dealt with more effectively, thereby ensuring the best maternal and neonatal outcomes. Patient referral is regarded as a fundamental component of the health care system therefore a well functioning system should ensure that patients are treated in the appropriate manner at the appropriate place at the lowest possible cost to the health system. The goal of this research study was to explore and describe the inter-level health service referral of women in labour by midwives, in order to design guidelines for midwives and other relevant health care providers involved in inter-level health service referral of women in labour in the South African public health care sector. The research design used for this study is a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches. The paradigmatic perspective of this study was based on the World Health Organization’s Health for All Model. Appropriate data collection and analysis strategies were used for the different stages of the study. Data collection commenced only after permission to conduct the research had been obtained from relevant authorities and University of Port Elizabeth and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University structures. Informed consent was obtained from participants included in the study. In stage 1 of this research project, a profile of midwives at lower level maternity care centres was compiled and the perceptions and experiences of midwives working at lower level maternity services, who are responsible for inter-level health referrals of women in labour, were described. Stage 2 described, by means of analysis of maternity case records, aspects of the inter-level referral of women in labour including the profiles of women admitted to midwife obstetric units (MOUs) who are v referred to higher levels of care. Of significance in this study is the appropriateness of midwifery referrals and the maternity care implemented by health care providers during inter-level health service referral of women in labour. In stage 3 clinical guidelines for midwives and other relevant maternity care providers, to assist them in the inter-level health service referral of women in labour, were developed. Findings from stage 1 of this research study revealed that midwives were generally well qualified and sufficiently experienced in the management of women in labour who need referral. Disconcerting findings relating to human and material resource shortages were discovered; these included major problems with patient transportation and difficulties with communication relating to inter-level health service referral of women. These shortages adversely affected midwives’ ability to efficiently care for women during the inter-level health service referral of women in labour in the research area. Stage 2 of the study yielded results of questionable standards of care to women and infants included in the study. A further disturbing finding from the study is the poor state of record keeping. The development of the provisional guidelines in stage 3 of the study was informed by the four main themes identified from the research findings. Before embarking on guideline development, the researcher familiarized herself with theory related to the clinical guidelines. These included clarifying the concept ‘clinical guidelines’, justifying the need for developing clinical guidelines as well as giving consideration to concerns about clinical guidelines. The research findings as well as literature related to these findings informed the researcher on the development of the guidelines. Provisional guidelines were therefore developed on responsibilities of role players in inter-level health service referral of women in labour at first level of referral, namely the midwife obstetric units, transport personnel and maternity care providers at the referral hospital. Steps were taken throughout the study to adhere to ethical standards of research. The researcher will ensure that the research report is available to all health authorities involved, the participants included in the study and the health care providers who may benefit from the research findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jantjes, Louisa
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Childbirth -- South Africa , Medical referrals -- South Africa , Midwives -- South Africa , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10010 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/986 , Childbirth -- South Africa , Medical referrals -- South Africa , Midwives -- South Africa , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Complications
- Description: Although it is considered an everyday occurrence, childbirth is nonetheless an important and dramatic experience in the life of every woman. Childbirth, a normal physiological state in the life of a woman, can be an awe-inspiring and exciting experience, but sometimes disconcerting experiences may also occur. Women sometimes see labour as the end to a long drawn out process following pregnancy and therefore attribute great significance to all occurrences during labour. When complications occur in a usually uncomplicated process of labour, the health care provider must be able to make quick and effective management decisions and implement appropriate interventions. This may include the referral of women in labour to a level of care where complications can be dealt with more effectively, thereby ensuring the best maternal and neonatal outcomes. Patient referral is regarded as a fundamental component of the health care system therefore a well functioning system should ensure that patients are treated in the appropriate manner at the appropriate place at the lowest possible cost to the health system. The goal of this research study was to explore and describe the inter-level health service referral of women in labour by midwives, in order to design guidelines for midwives and other relevant health care providers involved in inter-level health service referral of women in labour in the South African public health care sector. The research design used for this study is a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches. The paradigmatic perspective of this study was based on the World Health Organization’s Health for All Model. Appropriate data collection and analysis strategies were used for the different stages of the study. Data collection commenced only after permission to conduct the research had been obtained from relevant authorities and University of Port Elizabeth and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University structures. Informed consent was obtained from participants included in the study. In stage 1 of this research project, a profile of midwives at lower level maternity care centres was compiled and the perceptions and experiences of midwives working at lower level maternity services, who are responsible for inter-level health referrals of women in labour, were described. Stage 2 described, by means of analysis of maternity case records, aspects of the inter-level referral of women in labour including the profiles of women admitted to midwife obstetric units (MOUs) who are v referred to higher levels of care. Of significance in this study is the appropriateness of midwifery referrals and the maternity care implemented by health care providers during inter-level health service referral of women in labour. In stage 3 clinical guidelines for midwives and other relevant maternity care providers, to assist them in the inter-level health service referral of women in labour, were developed. Findings from stage 1 of this research study revealed that midwives were generally well qualified and sufficiently experienced in the management of women in labour who need referral. Disconcerting findings relating to human and material resource shortages were discovered; these included major problems with patient transportation and difficulties with communication relating to inter-level health service referral of women. These shortages adversely affected midwives’ ability to efficiently care for women during the inter-level health service referral of women in labour in the research area. Stage 2 of the study yielded results of questionable standards of care to women and infants included in the study. A further disturbing finding from the study is the poor state of record keeping. The development of the provisional guidelines in stage 3 of the study was informed by the four main themes identified from the research findings. Before embarking on guideline development, the researcher familiarized herself with theory related to the clinical guidelines. These included clarifying the concept ‘clinical guidelines’, justifying the need for developing clinical guidelines as well as giving consideration to concerns about clinical guidelines. The research findings as well as literature related to these findings informed the researcher on the development of the guidelines. Provisional guidelines were therefore developed on responsibilities of role players in inter-level health service referral of women in labour at first level of referral, namely the midwife obstetric units, transport personnel and maternity care providers at the referral hospital. Steps were taken throughout the study to adhere to ethical standards of research. The researcher will ensure that the research report is available to all health authorities involved, the participants included in the study and the health care providers who may benefit from the research findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Isokinetic force profile of the cervical spine in a healthy adult urban South African population
- Authors: Olivier, Pierre Emile
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Cervical vertebrae , Neck -- Muscles , Muscle strength -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10102 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/982 , Cervical vertebrae , Neck -- Muscles , Muscle strength -- Testing
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish reference data for the cervical spine’s dynamic force characteristics in a healthy adult urban South African population aged 19 to 69 years. The reference data was classified according to gender discriminate age categories. In total ten gender discriminate age categories, five male and five female, were created; 19 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59 and 60 to 69-year-olds. The force characteristics measured, analysed and used to generate reference data in stanine format were: absolute peak torque (P-), relative peak torque (P-/BW), peak power (Pow-), relative peak power (Pow-/BW), peak work (W-), relative peak work (W-/BW), torque acceleration energy (TAE-), maximal voluntary cervical muscle contraction range of motion (MVCR-), controlled full range of joint motion (CFR-), joint angle at peak torque (Jang@P-) and peak torque ratios for cervical flexion (-F), extension (-E), lateral flexion to the dominant (-LD) and non-dominant (-LN) sides. In addition biographic and anthropometric data was also collected. Data, grouped in the ten gender discriminate age categories were compared and statistically and practically significant differences were highlighted between the gender discriminate age categories. Inferential statistics used included ANOVA and Cohen’s d. A significance level of α = .05 was used in all inferential statistical analyses. Correlations between various anthropometric and isokinetic strength variables were also explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Olivier, Pierre Emile
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Cervical vertebrae , Neck -- Muscles , Muscle strength -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10102 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/982 , Cervical vertebrae , Neck -- Muscles , Muscle strength -- Testing
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish reference data for the cervical spine’s dynamic force characteristics in a healthy adult urban South African population aged 19 to 69 years. The reference data was classified according to gender discriminate age categories. In total ten gender discriminate age categories, five male and five female, were created; 19 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59 and 60 to 69-year-olds. The force characteristics measured, analysed and used to generate reference data in stanine format were: absolute peak torque (P-), relative peak torque (P-/BW), peak power (Pow-), relative peak power (Pow-/BW), peak work (W-), relative peak work (W-/BW), torque acceleration energy (TAE-), maximal voluntary cervical muscle contraction range of motion (MVCR-), controlled full range of joint motion (CFR-), joint angle at peak torque (Jang@P-) and peak torque ratios for cervical flexion (-F), extension (-E), lateral flexion to the dominant (-LD) and non-dominant (-LN) sides. In addition biographic and anthropometric data was also collected. Data, grouped in the ten gender discriminate age categories were compared and statistically and practically significant differences were highlighted between the gender discriminate age categories. Inferential statistics used included ANOVA and Cohen’s d. A significance level of α = .05 was used in all inferential statistical analyses. Correlations between various anthropometric and isokinetic strength variables were also explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Novel aspects of platinum-amine coordination compounds: their chemistry and anticancer application
- Authors: Bouwer, Yolanda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coordination compounds , Platinum compounds , Antineoplastic agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10444 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021052
- Description: The aim in this thesis, was to synthesize novel platinum coordination compounds, in order to develop compounds with improved anticancer action which could lead to an improved understanding of the mechanism by which they operate and at the same time, improve synthetic methods for their products. The initial work included the development of a novel synthetic method for 1R,2R-diaminocyclohexaneoxalato-platinum(II) (oxaliplatin), by using an essentially non-aqueous solvent medium and direct ligand exchange at elevated temperatures. This was done by a study of the kinetics of the reaction in a variety of conditions; such as relative reagent concentrations and ratios as well as solvent mixtures. An effective method was developed which could be applied industrially. An international patent was taken out on this method. Various amine complexes of platinum(II) were synthesized using chloro, bromo and oxalato groups as leaving groups. The non-leaving groups were selected having certain specific characteristics in mind. Novel mononitroplatinum(IV) complexes were synthesized, mostly with oxalato leaving groups. One of these in particular, had excellent anticancer behaviour. Another trichloromononitro complex was also synthesized with very good anticancer properties. Two international patents were filed for the latter two compounds. As far as possible, all compounds were studied by spectrometric, chromatographic and thermal methods. They were also tested against 3 cancer cell lines namely cervical (Hela), Colon (HT29) and Breast (MCF7) cancer cells.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Bouwer, Yolanda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coordination compounds , Platinum compounds , Antineoplastic agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10444 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021052
- Description: The aim in this thesis, was to synthesize novel platinum coordination compounds, in order to develop compounds with improved anticancer action which could lead to an improved understanding of the mechanism by which they operate and at the same time, improve synthetic methods for their products. The initial work included the development of a novel synthetic method for 1R,2R-diaminocyclohexaneoxalato-platinum(II) (oxaliplatin), by using an essentially non-aqueous solvent medium and direct ligand exchange at elevated temperatures. This was done by a study of the kinetics of the reaction in a variety of conditions; such as relative reagent concentrations and ratios as well as solvent mixtures. An effective method was developed which could be applied industrially. An international patent was taken out on this method. Various amine complexes of platinum(II) were synthesized using chloro, bromo and oxalato groups as leaving groups. The non-leaving groups were selected having certain specific characteristics in mind. Novel mononitroplatinum(IV) complexes were synthesized, mostly with oxalato leaving groups. One of these in particular, had excellent anticancer behaviour. Another trichloromononitro complex was also synthesized with very good anticancer properties. Two international patents were filed for the latter two compounds. As far as possible, all compounds were studied by spectrometric, chromatographic and thermal methods. They were also tested against 3 cancer cell lines namely cervical (Hela), Colon (HT29) and Breast (MCF7) cancer cells.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Novel camphor derivatives as potential asymmetric alkylation auxiliaries
- Authors: Skiti-Mama, Neliswa
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Alkylation , Chemistry, Organic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10372 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1077 , Alkylation , Chemistry, Organic
- Description: The investigation has been focussed on the synthesis and characterisation of camphor-derived chiral auxiliaries that incorporate two camphor skeletons and an evaluation of their stereodirecting potential in ester α-benzylation reactions. Two regioisomeric camphorquinone-derived monoketals were synthesised and identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR, and X-ray crystallography. The stereo-directing potential of the alcohols that resulted from reduction of these ketones as chiral auxiliaries in the alkylation of carboxylate ester derivatives has been studied. The diastereoselectivities shown by NMR spectroscopy range from 14- 30 % d.e. for (1R,2 S, 3R) -2 ,2-[ (1R, 2 S, 3R) -bornane-2,3-dioxy] - bornan-3-ol and 68-74 % d.e. for (1R, 2S ,3R) -3 ,3-[ (1R, 2S ,3R) - bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-2-ol with selectivities that correlate with the size of the alkyl group in the ester moiety. Trapping of the enolates generated from (1R, 2S ,3R)-2, 2 -[(1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane- 2,3-dioxy]bornan-3-yl propanoate afforded both E- and Z-silyl ketene acetal derivatives in the ratio of 64:36 confirming the formation of both possible enolate structures during enolization. Chiral auxiliaries containing a hemiaminal ether blocking group as well as two chiral alcohols containing monothio-ketal blocking groups have also been synthesised. α-Benzylation of their corresponding propanoate esters afforded the alkylated product with disappointingly low diastereos electivities. Asymmetric reduction of α-keto esters attached to (1R, 2 S, 3R) - 2,2- [ (1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-3-ol and (1R, 2S ,3R) - 3,3- [ (1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-2-ol with metal hydrides proceeded with selectivities of up to 30 % d.e. Modelling of the keto ester derivatives at DFT levels provided useful insights into possible conformations adopted by the two α-keto esters and hence the preferred face of attack by metal hydride during reduction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Skiti-Mama, Neliswa
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Alkylation , Chemistry, Organic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10372 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1077 , Alkylation , Chemistry, Organic
- Description: The investigation has been focussed on the synthesis and characterisation of camphor-derived chiral auxiliaries that incorporate two camphor skeletons and an evaluation of their stereodirecting potential in ester α-benzylation reactions. Two regioisomeric camphorquinone-derived monoketals were synthesised and identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR, and X-ray crystallography. The stereo-directing potential of the alcohols that resulted from reduction of these ketones as chiral auxiliaries in the alkylation of carboxylate ester derivatives has been studied. The diastereoselectivities shown by NMR spectroscopy range from 14- 30 % d.e. for (1R,2 S, 3R) -2 ,2-[ (1R, 2 S, 3R) -bornane-2,3-dioxy] - bornan-3-ol and 68-74 % d.e. for (1R, 2S ,3R) -3 ,3-[ (1R, 2S ,3R) - bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-2-ol with selectivities that correlate with the size of the alkyl group in the ester moiety. Trapping of the enolates generated from (1R, 2S ,3R)-2, 2 -[(1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane- 2,3-dioxy]bornan-3-yl propanoate afforded both E- and Z-silyl ketene acetal derivatives in the ratio of 64:36 confirming the formation of both possible enolate structures during enolization. Chiral auxiliaries containing a hemiaminal ether blocking group as well as two chiral alcohols containing monothio-ketal blocking groups have also been synthesised. α-Benzylation of their corresponding propanoate esters afforded the alkylated product with disappointingly low diastereos electivities. Asymmetric reduction of α-keto esters attached to (1R, 2 S, 3R) - 2,2- [ (1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-3-ol and (1R, 2S ,3R) - 3,3- [ (1R,2 S, 3R) -bornane-2, 3 -dioxy]bornan-2-ol with metal hydrides proceeded with selectivities of up to 30 % d.e. Modelling of the keto ester derivatives at DFT levels provided useful insights into possible conformations adopted by the two α-keto esters and hence the preferred face of attack by metal hydride during reduction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008