An investigation of learning and emerging knowledge in the Mpophomeni Sanitation Education Project, Howick, KwaZulu-Natal
- Authors: Boothway, Reinetta Louina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa , Mpophomeni Sanitation Education Project (South Africa) , Water quality management -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Knowledge and learning
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115377 , vital:34121
- Description: This study took place within the broader context of water resources management in South Africa. With the democratisation of water stewardship through an enabling international and South African water policy landscape, an opportunity opened up for citizens to participate in the effective management of their own water resources. In this context, a community-engaged citizen science project known as the Mpophomeni Sanitation Education Project emerged to demonstrate how a diverse range of knowledge agents can work and learn together to better manage their water resources and address problems of sewage pollution threatening their provincial water source. The following study aimed to shed light on the learning and emerging knowledge in the MSEP. The study was conducted in three phases. Wenger’s Communities of Practice (CoP) theory provided a lens to look at Phase One, which aimed to answer the following sub-question: Is the MSEP a CoP? Wenger’s CoP theory also assisted with the investigation during Phase Two, which looked at the following question: What is the nature of learning in the MSEP? Social realist theories of knowledge and education, and Tàbara and Chabay with their Ideal Type (IT) worldviews, provided suitable lenses for Phase Three’s investigation of the following question: What is the nature of emerging knowledge in the MSEP? The main finding for Phase One is that the MSEP does function as a CoP. With its strong focus on relationships, it’s clearly defined joint enterprise of solving the problem of sewage pollution, individual and joint commitment to engage with the problem and the sharing of a repertoire of tools, ideas and practices it is cultivating a culture conducive to purposeful learning. Regarding the exploration of the nature of learning in Phase Two, findings confirming the engagement of identity with learning and the importance of context for meaning-making emerged. Finally, study findings about the nature of knowledge in the MSEP found that the knowledge practices in the MSEP that are both social and epistemic in nature are produced by a diverse range of knowledge agents in an open knowledge space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Boothway, Reinetta Louina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa , Mpophomeni Sanitation Education Project (South Africa) , Water quality management -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Knowledge and learning
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115377 , vital:34121
- Description: This study took place within the broader context of water resources management in South Africa. With the democratisation of water stewardship through an enabling international and South African water policy landscape, an opportunity opened up for citizens to participate in the effective management of their own water resources. In this context, a community-engaged citizen science project known as the Mpophomeni Sanitation Education Project emerged to demonstrate how a diverse range of knowledge agents can work and learn together to better manage their water resources and address problems of sewage pollution threatening their provincial water source. The following study aimed to shed light on the learning and emerging knowledge in the MSEP. The study was conducted in three phases. Wenger’s Communities of Practice (CoP) theory provided a lens to look at Phase One, which aimed to answer the following sub-question: Is the MSEP a CoP? Wenger’s CoP theory also assisted with the investigation during Phase Two, which looked at the following question: What is the nature of learning in the MSEP? Social realist theories of knowledge and education, and Tàbara and Chabay with their Ideal Type (IT) worldviews, provided suitable lenses for Phase Three’s investigation of the following question: What is the nature of emerging knowledge in the MSEP? The main finding for Phase One is that the MSEP does function as a CoP. With its strong focus on relationships, it’s clearly defined joint enterprise of solving the problem of sewage pollution, individual and joint commitment to engage with the problem and the sharing of a repertoire of tools, ideas and practices it is cultivating a culture conducive to purposeful learning. Regarding the exploration of the nature of learning in Phase Two, findings confirming the engagement of identity with learning and the importance of context for meaning-making emerged. Finally, study findings about the nature of knowledge in the MSEP found that the knowledge practices in the MSEP that are both social and epistemic in nature are produced by a diverse range of knowledge agents in an open knowledge space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of plant conservation strategies employed in Makhanda, South Africa: an educational exploration
- Authors: Cimi, Pumlani Viwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plant conservation , Rare plants Biodiversity conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37979 , vital:34276
- Description: The school curriculum in South Africa gives educators the freedom to design and organise learning experiences according to their local circumstances and availability of resources. In that context, this study advocates conservation education through use of plants on school grounds and visits to local herbaria and botanical gardens as part of the school curriculum. Trees growing on street verges in town suburbs are also a resource that could be using for teaching. School learners from three schools representing different areas of Makhanda (Grahamstown) participated in plant-related activities and were surveyed to determine their prior knowledge about plants and plant conservation. Learners answered a series of questions in writing using a funnel sequence and the inverted funnel sequence in questionnaire design. This motivated respondents to co-operate and fully complete a questionnaire. In addition, the non-participant observation technique was used to capture behavioural reactions to the activities in order to supplement the data generated through questionnaires and interviews. This proved to be a purposeful, systematic and a selective way of watching and listening to an interaction phenomenon as it takes place. Interviews and questionnaires revealed that most Makhanda residents (especially in rural and township areas) use traditional medicine and medicinal plants to treat many diseases. They also use plants for cultural activities. Traditional remedies are practised among the rural and township communities because of ease of availability, convenience, and also due to social, psychological and cultural reasons. Medicinal plants have been increasingly recognized for their role not only for health care, but also for improving the economic status. Community members and street vendors were also questioned using semi-structured interviews. Open-ended questions were used successfully to assess the person’s knowledge, attitudes, opinions, beliefs and feelings. This type of interview ensures that a specific question does not lose its purpose. These interviews were used to determine how community members see, interpret and relate to nature. In the interviews, I also assessed the real needs of the local communities because there is a tendency to think that our power, knowledge and resources can give us the right to predict what communities really need without actually asking them. When our imposed initiatives fail, we often accuse these communities of a lack of interest in our issue of interest. Documents on plants and their uses kept in the Selmar Schönland Herbarium were compared with the information given by community members and street vendors. Xhosa plant names and ethnobotanical information given by the community members and street vendors was used to augment existing information on plant use. A further aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of plant resources provided by the street trees and gardens for education. Makhanda streets were sampled and, of the 1 435 plants that were countered from 17 streets, only 15 indigenous species were represented, while 20 alien species were recorded. These trees can be used for lessons on both alien and indigenous plants. Notable differences in tree density and species richness were evident across suburbs with the highest density and richness found in the more affluent suburbs and poor representation of trees in the township. This will affect learner perceptions and viewpoints. The results from the analysed data revealed that use of the school grounds, botanical gardens, the local herbarium and town streets are effective in plant conservation education in schools and communities. These types of resources could be used for environmental education for future generations in South Africa and all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Cimi, Pumlani Viwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plant conservation , Rare plants Biodiversity conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37979 , vital:34276
- Description: The school curriculum in South Africa gives educators the freedom to design and organise learning experiences according to their local circumstances and availability of resources. In that context, this study advocates conservation education through use of plants on school grounds and visits to local herbaria and botanical gardens as part of the school curriculum. Trees growing on street verges in town suburbs are also a resource that could be using for teaching. School learners from three schools representing different areas of Makhanda (Grahamstown) participated in plant-related activities and were surveyed to determine their prior knowledge about plants and plant conservation. Learners answered a series of questions in writing using a funnel sequence and the inverted funnel sequence in questionnaire design. This motivated respondents to co-operate and fully complete a questionnaire. In addition, the non-participant observation technique was used to capture behavioural reactions to the activities in order to supplement the data generated through questionnaires and interviews. This proved to be a purposeful, systematic and a selective way of watching and listening to an interaction phenomenon as it takes place. Interviews and questionnaires revealed that most Makhanda residents (especially in rural and township areas) use traditional medicine and medicinal plants to treat many diseases. They also use plants for cultural activities. Traditional remedies are practised among the rural and township communities because of ease of availability, convenience, and also due to social, psychological and cultural reasons. Medicinal plants have been increasingly recognized for their role not only for health care, but also for improving the economic status. Community members and street vendors were also questioned using semi-structured interviews. Open-ended questions were used successfully to assess the person’s knowledge, attitudes, opinions, beliefs and feelings. This type of interview ensures that a specific question does not lose its purpose. These interviews were used to determine how community members see, interpret and relate to nature. In the interviews, I also assessed the real needs of the local communities because there is a tendency to think that our power, knowledge and resources can give us the right to predict what communities really need without actually asking them. When our imposed initiatives fail, we often accuse these communities of a lack of interest in our issue of interest. Documents on plants and their uses kept in the Selmar Schönland Herbarium were compared with the information given by community members and street vendors. Xhosa plant names and ethnobotanical information given by the community members and street vendors was used to augment existing information on plant use. A further aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of plant resources provided by the street trees and gardens for education. Makhanda streets were sampled and, of the 1 435 plants that were countered from 17 streets, only 15 indigenous species were represented, while 20 alien species were recorded. These trees can be used for lessons on both alien and indigenous plants. Notable differences in tree density and species richness were evident across suburbs with the highest density and richness found in the more affluent suburbs and poor representation of trees in the township. This will affect learner perceptions and viewpoints. The results from the analysed data revealed that use of the school grounds, botanical gardens, the local herbarium and town streets are effective in plant conservation education in schools and communities. These types of resources could be used for environmental education for future generations in South Africa and all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of Raymond Mhlaba municipality indigent policy on water service delivery: a case study of free basic water policy (FBWP) in selected areas of Golf Course and Bhofolo.
- Authors: Ncube, Mary Silibaziso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16974 , vital:40799
- Description: The study was looking at the Free Basic Water policy (FBWP) in the Eastern Cape which was introduced in July 2001 in South Africa. FBWP was introduced to all provinces, however people living in rural areas, poor areas and villages are still suffering from lack of clean and safe drinking water. People lack adequate supplies of water and this creates conditions under which the diseases thrive. The researcher used mixed research methodology which comprises of qualitative (interview) and quantitative (questionnaire) approaches. The reason for the use of mixed methodology was to get adequate information both from the municipality (the provider of water) and the residents (the receivers of the services provided by the municipality) in order to assess how the unreliable water provision affect residents and the challenges being faced by the municipality in providing water. The findings of the study are that both people under Golf course and Bhofolo have little knowledge about FBW and most of the residents are unable to pay their water bills. Residents in the two research areas suffer from medical problems due to unreliable water provision. The study is therefore, of view that South Africa needs to prioritise improvement of access to water in rural areas, poor areas and villages. There is a need to educate people about FBW and on how to save water.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ncube, Mary Silibaziso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16974 , vital:40799
- Description: The study was looking at the Free Basic Water policy (FBWP) in the Eastern Cape which was introduced in July 2001 in South Africa. FBWP was introduced to all provinces, however people living in rural areas, poor areas and villages are still suffering from lack of clean and safe drinking water. People lack adequate supplies of water and this creates conditions under which the diseases thrive. The researcher used mixed research methodology which comprises of qualitative (interview) and quantitative (questionnaire) approaches. The reason for the use of mixed methodology was to get adequate information both from the municipality (the provider of water) and the residents (the receivers of the services provided by the municipality) in order to assess how the unreliable water provision affect residents and the challenges being faced by the municipality in providing water. The findings of the study are that both people under Golf course and Bhofolo have little knowledge about FBW and most of the residents are unable to pay their water bills. Residents in the two research areas suffer from medical problems due to unreliable water provision. The study is therefore, of view that South Africa needs to prioritise improvement of access to water in rural areas, poor areas and villages. There is a need to educate people about FBW and on how to save water.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the challenges and their impacts as experienced by experts at the forensic pathology services in Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Authors: Adams, Terry
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forensic pathology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40213 , vital:35985
- Description: This study focuses on the challenges facing the workers at the Port Elizabeth Forensic Pathology Services in Gelvandale and Mount Road stations. The study follow a qualitative approach which include among others, individual interviews using an interview guide containing questions. Observation has also been used as a research tool to observe at the two stations. To supplement the above research techniques, scholarly published journal articles and books were consulted to corroborate what might have transpired in other studies similar to this one. The concept backlog has been used as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges facing the workers in this study and relevant literature has been consulted. The research finding has been outlined and finally recommendations has been made with the view of addressing some of the problems encountered by the workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Adams, Terry
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forensic pathology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40213 , vital:35985
- Description: This study focuses on the challenges facing the workers at the Port Elizabeth Forensic Pathology Services in Gelvandale and Mount Road stations. The study follow a qualitative approach which include among others, individual interviews using an interview guide containing questions. Observation has also been used as a research tool to observe at the two stations. To supplement the above research techniques, scholarly published journal articles and books were consulted to corroborate what might have transpired in other studies similar to this one. The concept backlog has been used as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges facing the workers in this study and relevant literature has been consulted. The research finding has been outlined and finally recommendations has been made with the view of addressing some of the problems encountered by the workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the effetiveness of correctional centre-based vocational training programmes towards reducing recidivism
- Authors: Mangesi, Nosipho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Recidivism Social justice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Criminology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16408 , vital:40717
- Description: Since the Department of Correctional Services has been transformed into an institution of rehabilitation and skills development, there is a need for a sound classification system whereby offenders are classified according to their potential for treatment and training programmes that match their risk/needs. The study was conducted in Middledrift Correctional Centre in the Eastern Cape with the aim of examining the effectiveness of correctionally based vocational training programmes towards reducing recidivism. Research towards correctional programmes was necessitated by the extant of recidivism in South Africa. The question is where does the problem lie because offenders are provided with rehabilitation programmes to make them law abiding citizens and reintegrate well into the community up on release but, in many cases it does not become possible as many ex-offenders return to custody either for new offence or parole violation. The study used qualitative design in data collection and in explaining the results. A sample of sixteen recidivists and five correctional officials formed participants for the study selecting using purposive sampling procedures. Involvement in vocational programmes was used as a criteria for selectiong of correctional officials as participants. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight recidivists and all five correctional officials and a focus group interview was held with the other eight set of recidivists. The study examined the impact of vocational programmes on recidivism followed by the factors that hinder effective offender rehabilitation and factors that influence recidivism up on release. The findings of this study were analysed using thematic analysis with the assistance of a voice recorder as a back up for collected data. Findings revealed that a small number of recidivists attend vocational training programmes and these programmes vi (vocational) are short in the centre together with programme facilitators at the time of reporting. Offenders stated that the available vocational programmes are of no interest to them. Participantas stated that vocational training does assist in desisting criminal activities up on release as it provide skills and opportunities for employment to curb unemployment as indicated as a major factor influencing recidivism. Findings also revealed that periodic re-assesment is not adequately conducted and classification for vocational training is not likely to be sufficiently done according to offender risk/needs. The study recommends that, a large number of offenders be provided with vocational training programmes and that offender classification incorporate the principles of RNR model
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mangesi, Nosipho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Recidivism Social justice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Criminology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16408 , vital:40717
- Description: Since the Department of Correctional Services has been transformed into an institution of rehabilitation and skills development, there is a need for a sound classification system whereby offenders are classified according to their potential for treatment and training programmes that match their risk/needs. The study was conducted in Middledrift Correctional Centre in the Eastern Cape with the aim of examining the effectiveness of correctionally based vocational training programmes towards reducing recidivism. Research towards correctional programmes was necessitated by the extant of recidivism in South Africa. The question is where does the problem lie because offenders are provided with rehabilitation programmes to make them law abiding citizens and reintegrate well into the community up on release but, in many cases it does not become possible as many ex-offenders return to custody either for new offence or parole violation. The study used qualitative design in data collection and in explaining the results. A sample of sixteen recidivists and five correctional officials formed participants for the study selecting using purposive sampling procedures. Involvement in vocational programmes was used as a criteria for selectiong of correctional officials as participants. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight recidivists and all five correctional officials and a focus group interview was held with the other eight set of recidivists. The study examined the impact of vocational programmes on recidivism followed by the factors that hinder effective offender rehabilitation and factors that influence recidivism up on release. The findings of this study were analysed using thematic analysis with the assistance of a voice recorder as a back up for collected data. Findings revealed that a small number of recidivists attend vocational training programmes and these programmes vi (vocational) are short in the centre together with programme facilitators at the time of reporting. Offenders stated that the available vocational programmes are of no interest to them. Participantas stated that vocational training does assist in desisting criminal activities up on release as it provide skills and opportunities for employment to curb unemployment as indicated as a major factor influencing recidivism. Findings also revealed that periodic re-assesment is not adequately conducted and classification for vocational training is not likely to be sufficiently done according to offender risk/needs. The study recommends that, a large number of offenders be provided with vocational training programmes and that offender classification incorporate the principles of RNR model
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the extent, effects and impact of Gender-based Violence in Duncan Village, East London
- Authors: Peter, Noma-Afrika
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Violence -- Sex differences Human rights
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Phil (Human rights)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16851 , vital:40779
- Description: This research seeks to investigate GBV against women in Duncan Village in the East London area to find out the extent of the prevalence, its effect, and remedial solutions. The study adopted a qualitative method. The data was collected through semi-structured one-to one interviews from 16 participants using systematic random sampling. The findings revealed that GBV is prevalent in Duncan Village. Most of the women residing in Duncan Village are dependent on child support grant and raise their children alone without the support of their biological fathers. The study further revealed that GBV against women often happens during day time and the victims are either married or single women. One of the contributing factors of GBV is unemployment. Therefore, this study recommends that awareness of GBV should be made continuously in communities by the government and stakeholders. In addition, the Commission for Gender Equality and NGOs that deal with GBV should be visible in all wards so that their services are known and utilised. The Department of Women Affairs should be the main driver in ensuring that women from previously disadvantaged communities are economically empowered, for example, by initiating income generating projects. However, they too should first be capacitated on business and financial management skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Peter, Noma-Afrika
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Violence -- Sex differences Human rights
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Phil (Human rights)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16851 , vital:40779
- Description: This research seeks to investigate GBV against women in Duncan Village in the East London area to find out the extent of the prevalence, its effect, and remedial solutions. The study adopted a qualitative method. The data was collected through semi-structured one-to one interviews from 16 participants using systematic random sampling. The findings revealed that GBV is prevalent in Duncan Village. Most of the women residing in Duncan Village are dependent on child support grant and raise their children alone without the support of their biological fathers. The study further revealed that GBV against women often happens during day time and the victims are either married or single women. One of the contributing factors of GBV is unemployment. Therefore, this study recommends that awareness of GBV should be made continuously in communities by the government and stakeholders. In addition, the Commission for Gender Equality and NGOs that deal with GBV should be visible in all wards so that their services are known and utilised. The Department of Women Affairs should be the main driver in ensuring that women from previously disadvantaged communities are economically empowered, for example, by initiating income generating projects. However, they too should first be capacitated on business and financial management skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the long term chemical stability and physical performance of PMD-citronellal acetal compared with dibutyl phthalate and BIS(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate as plasticisers in selected cosmetic formulations
- Authors: Marx, Amor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plastics -- Additives , Chemistry, Technical , Cosmetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42574 , vital:36669
- Description: Plasticisers are used by cosmetic manufacturers to improve the film forming abilities of a product and increase flexibility of the film formed on the skin or hair surface, as is desired, for example, in nail lacquers and lip coats. In recent years authorities have banned several plasticisers in cosmetic products (mainly phthalates) since these substances may pose a wide range of health risks and can be harmful to the environment. It is, therefore, necessary to find alternative, safe plasticisers, preferably of natural origin e.g. bio-plasticisers which can replace the toxic phthalates and still impart the same desirable properties to the cosmetic products in which they are used. In this study, the novel bio-plasticiser para-menthane-3,8-diol-citronellal acetal (PMD-citronellal acetal) was selected to compare its stability properties and plasticising behaviour with well-known non-phthalate bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHT) and the problematic dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The objectives were to determine if the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-citronellal acetal plasticising properties and chemical stability are similar or better than DEHT and DBP within two cosmetic formulations, viz. a nail lacquer and a lip coat formulation, after being incubated at elevated temperature (40 ˚C) over a three month period. The results showed that flexibility for all plasticised formulations remained stable at room temperature (21 ˚C) and elevated temperature (40 ˚C). Adhesion performance of DEHT and PMD-citronellal acetal nail lacquer formulations outperformed DBP nail lacquer formulations. Elevated temperature and storage time had no influence on the organoleptic properties of any plasticised formulation. PMD-citronellal acetal plasticised lip coat and nail lacquer formulations outperformed both DEHT and DBP nail formulations with regard to hardness. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) studies revealed that neat DPB, DEHT and Acetal were chemically stable at room temperature and elevated temperature over a three month incubation period. Furthermore, the three plasticised nail lacquer and lip coat formulations remained chemical stable over the three month incubation period at elevated temperature. Chemical stability of the nail lacquer formulations was further evaluated by means of leaching tests using Solid Phase Extraction [1] and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) at two temperatures (31 and 50 °C) and three time intervals (24, 48 and 72 hours). No leaching out of the nail lacquer formulation for Acetal and DEHT could be detected. It was observed that trace amounts of DBP leached from the nail lacquer formulation at 50 °C. DBP leaching decreased over time and was found to be statistically significant over the studied period. It can be concluded that PMD-citronellal acetal can be selected as bio-plasticiser which exhibits similar properties to DEHT based on the performance stability and non-leaching criteria, and can be used as an alternative plasticiser to the toxic DBP in cosmetic formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Marx, Amor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plastics -- Additives , Chemistry, Technical , Cosmetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42574 , vital:36669
- Description: Plasticisers are used by cosmetic manufacturers to improve the film forming abilities of a product and increase flexibility of the film formed on the skin or hair surface, as is desired, for example, in nail lacquers and lip coats. In recent years authorities have banned several plasticisers in cosmetic products (mainly phthalates) since these substances may pose a wide range of health risks and can be harmful to the environment. It is, therefore, necessary to find alternative, safe plasticisers, preferably of natural origin e.g. bio-plasticisers which can replace the toxic phthalates and still impart the same desirable properties to the cosmetic products in which they are used. In this study, the novel bio-plasticiser para-menthane-3,8-diol-citronellal acetal (PMD-citronellal acetal) was selected to compare its stability properties and plasticising behaviour with well-known non-phthalate bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHT) and the problematic dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The objectives were to determine if the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-citronellal acetal plasticising properties and chemical stability are similar or better than DEHT and DBP within two cosmetic formulations, viz. a nail lacquer and a lip coat formulation, after being incubated at elevated temperature (40 ˚C) over a three month period. The results showed that flexibility for all plasticised formulations remained stable at room temperature (21 ˚C) and elevated temperature (40 ˚C). Adhesion performance of DEHT and PMD-citronellal acetal nail lacquer formulations outperformed DBP nail lacquer formulations. Elevated temperature and storage time had no influence on the organoleptic properties of any plasticised formulation. PMD-citronellal acetal plasticised lip coat and nail lacquer formulations outperformed both DEHT and DBP nail formulations with regard to hardness. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) studies revealed that neat DPB, DEHT and Acetal were chemically stable at room temperature and elevated temperature over a three month incubation period. Furthermore, the three plasticised nail lacquer and lip coat formulations remained chemical stable over the three month incubation period at elevated temperature. Chemical stability of the nail lacquer formulations was further evaluated by means of leaching tests using Solid Phase Extraction [1] and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) at two temperatures (31 and 50 °C) and three time intervals (24, 48 and 72 hours). No leaching out of the nail lacquer formulation for Acetal and DEHT could be detected. It was observed that trace amounts of DBP leached from the nail lacquer formulation at 50 °C. DBP leaching decreased over time and was found to be statistically significant over the studied period. It can be concluded that PMD-citronellal acetal can be selected as bio-plasticiser which exhibits similar properties to DEHT based on the performance stability and non-leaching criteria, and can be used as an alternative plasticiser to the toxic DBP in cosmetic formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the policy implementation measures for the advancement of women into leadership positions in the workplace in contemporary South Africa: a case of the department of education in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Mangisa, Tembela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa , Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Women in development -- South Africa Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40900 , vital:36265
- Description: Long gone are the times when a woman’s place was in the home. This research was therefore aimed at highlighting the evolving of times in that women and men are now exposed to equal opportunities, and most specifically in education as well as in the workplace. However, the level of equal opportunities that they are exposed to is seemingly not the same when it comes to the work environment, as men still enjoy most of the benefits of being in top positions and being paid more than the female counterparts for doing the same or similar work, with women still discriminated against in this regard in the workplace like they did in the past. South Africa has made significant progress in terms of the economic participation as well as empowerment of women in the labour market. The country has also made great strides in mobilising female leadership and political participation. This has been done through the introduction of labour regulations and affirmative legislation to correct the injustices of the past for previously disadvantaged individuals, and for the purpose of this research, women. These corrective legislative measures also protect women from present unfair discrimination and ensure that they enjoy equal opportunities to education, the workplace and society. Equality in all respects is very important and is the founding principle for the new democratic South Africa, and in this regard gender equality, as women and men are regarded equal before the law and must therefore be treated as such in order to be able to fully create and achieve the vision behind this blueprint. However, the accuracy and efficacy in the implementation of these legislative measures is questionable, because the policies are there in blueprint. However, when it comes to the actual realisation of these policies, it is a different tale as even the numbers prove that it is still very much a man’s world, especially in positions of authority in the workplace as women are still very much circulated in lower and middle level management echelons in both government and industry. This is a prevalent issue not just in South Africa, but worldwide. Even though there are more women than men in the country and apparently in the workplace, one would think that the situation for women would be better. The situation is slowly improving, but it could be better than it is still. Change does it indeed take time, and that is very much clear in terms of policy implemenation, the attitudes in society which still very much influence both men and womens careers, and the representation of women in positions of authority. One would therefore also think that as women are seemingly in majority in the workplace, they would also be in majority in executive and decision-making positions. However, that seems not to be the case as even so and to emphasise this point, women are most spread accross lower levels in organisations, and oftentimes in low-skilled and low-paid sectors in the economy. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to highlight the plight for women in terms of gaining access to the executive suite in government and industry. Indeed, there are legislative frameworks that have been put in place to assist women in this regard, to gain access to management roles, and thereby the senior management roles particularly. However, the research has proven that women are still very much congested in lower and middle management roles, and the senior management roles are still very much occupied by men. There are women who have risen to the occasion and are in executive positions in various spheres, thereby busting the myth that women are not fit to be in leadership positions or cannot handle the job, nor the responsibilities and pressures that come with the job. However, many women in leadership positions are faced with different kinds of pressures than men, such as balancing work and family life, including patriarchal attitudes in the work environment and society about the place and even work of a woman. Therefore, the research was aimed at evaluating the level at which society functions today in terms of growth on the aspects of a woman’s place and that of women in leadership, and finding out what are the attitudes and perceptions in terms of women empowerment in society. There is still the perception that women cannot reach the executive suite, and that it should be a man’s job both in the workplace and in society, and also there is a shock to see a woman advance into what is thought to be a man’s world. Indeed, there has been a somewhat positive shift in that women are getting an education and slowly penetrating these male dominated spaces. However, it is not enough. Legislation is there, but it might not be properly implemented and executed in the various spaces that men and women interact in both in society, the workplace and organisations in South Africa and abroad. It seems highly unlikely and unbelievable that not much has really changed over the years though. Indeed, one could argue that the situation for women is much better than before, as they were before barred from even entering the world of work, as it was believed that a women’s place is in the home in times of yesteryear. The situation is indeed better for women, especially in politics. The study therefore provides concrete evidence that women are still faced with barriers in organisations or the workplace, and hence their underrepresentation in positions of authority highlights some of these barriers, whether they are evenly visible or not.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mangisa, Tembela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa , Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Women in development -- South Africa Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40900 , vital:36265
- Description: Long gone are the times when a woman’s place was in the home. This research was therefore aimed at highlighting the evolving of times in that women and men are now exposed to equal opportunities, and most specifically in education as well as in the workplace. However, the level of equal opportunities that they are exposed to is seemingly not the same when it comes to the work environment, as men still enjoy most of the benefits of being in top positions and being paid more than the female counterparts for doing the same or similar work, with women still discriminated against in this regard in the workplace like they did in the past. South Africa has made significant progress in terms of the economic participation as well as empowerment of women in the labour market. The country has also made great strides in mobilising female leadership and political participation. This has been done through the introduction of labour regulations and affirmative legislation to correct the injustices of the past for previously disadvantaged individuals, and for the purpose of this research, women. These corrective legislative measures also protect women from present unfair discrimination and ensure that they enjoy equal opportunities to education, the workplace and society. Equality in all respects is very important and is the founding principle for the new democratic South Africa, and in this regard gender equality, as women and men are regarded equal before the law and must therefore be treated as such in order to be able to fully create and achieve the vision behind this blueprint. However, the accuracy and efficacy in the implementation of these legislative measures is questionable, because the policies are there in blueprint. However, when it comes to the actual realisation of these policies, it is a different tale as even the numbers prove that it is still very much a man’s world, especially in positions of authority in the workplace as women are still very much circulated in lower and middle level management echelons in both government and industry. This is a prevalent issue not just in South Africa, but worldwide. Even though there are more women than men in the country and apparently in the workplace, one would think that the situation for women would be better. The situation is slowly improving, but it could be better than it is still. Change does it indeed take time, and that is very much clear in terms of policy implemenation, the attitudes in society which still very much influence both men and womens careers, and the representation of women in positions of authority. One would therefore also think that as women are seemingly in majority in the workplace, they would also be in majority in executive and decision-making positions. However, that seems not to be the case as even so and to emphasise this point, women are most spread accross lower levels in organisations, and oftentimes in low-skilled and low-paid sectors in the economy. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to highlight the plight for women in terms of gaining access to the executive suite in government and industry. Indeed, there are legislative frameworks that have been put in place to assist women in this regard, to gain access to management roles, and thereby the senior management roles particularly. However, the research has proven that women are still very much congested in lower and middle management roles, and the senior management roles are still very much occupied by men. There are women who have risen to the occasion and are in executive positions in various spheres, thereby busting the myth that women are not fit to be in leadership positions or cannot handle the job, nor the responsibilities and pressures that come with the job. However, many women in leadership positions are faced with different kinds of pressures than men, such as balancing work and family life, including patriarchal attitudes in the work environment and society about the place and even work of a woman. Therefore, the research was aimed at evaluating the level at which society functions today in terms of growth on the aspects of a woman’s place and that of women in leadership, and finding out what are the attitudes and perceptions in terms of women empowerment in society. There is still the perception that women cannot reach the executive suite, and that it should be a man’s job both in the workplace and in society, and also there is a shock to see a woman advance into what is thought to be a man’s world. Indeed, there has been a somewhat positive shift in that women are getting an education and slowly penetrating these male dominated spaces. However, it is not enough. Legislation is there, but it might not be properly implemented and executed in the various spaces that men and women interact in both in society, the workplace and organisations in South Africa and abroad. It seems highly unlikely and unbelievable that not much has really changed over the years though. Indeed, one could argue that the situation for women is much better than before, as they were before barred from even entering the world of work, as it was believed that a women’s place is in the home in times of yesteryear. The situation is indeed better for women, especially in politics. The study therefore provides concrete evidence that women are still faced with barriers in organisations or the workplace, and hence their underrepresentation in positions of authority highlights some of these barriers, whether they are evenly visible or not.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the security of passwords derived from African languages
- Authors: Sishi, Sibusiso Teboho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computers -- Access control -- Passwords , Computer users -- Attitudes , Internet -- Access control , Internet -- Security measures , Internet -- Management , Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/163273 , vital:41024
- Description: Password authentication has become ubiquitous in the cyber age. To-date, there have been several studies on country based passwords by authors who studied, amongst others, English, Finnish, Italian and Chinese based passwords. However, there has been a lack of focused study on the type of passwords that are being created in Africa and whether there are benefits in creating passwords in an African language. For this research, password databases containing LAN Manager (LM) and NT LAN Manager (NTLM) hashes extracted from South African organisations in a variety of sectors in the economy, were obtained to gain an understanding of user behaviour in creating passwords. Analysis of the passwords obtained from these hashes (using several cracking methods) showed that many organisational passwords are based on the English language. This is understandable considering that the business language in South Africa is English even though South Africa has 11 official languages. African language based passwords were derived from known English weak passwords and some of the passwords were appended with numbers and special characters. The African based passwords created using eight Southern African languages were then uploaded to the Internet to test the security around using passwords based on African languages. Since most of the passwords were able to be cracked by third party researchers, we conclude that any password that is derived from known weak English words marked no improvement in the security of a password written in an African language, especially the more widely spoken languages, namely, isiZulu, isiXhosa and Setswana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sishi, Sibusiso Teboho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computers -- Access control -- Passwords , Computer users -- Attitudes , Internet -- Access control , Internet -- Security measures , Internet -- Management , Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/163273 , vital:41024
- Description: Password authentication has become ubiquitous in the cyber age. To-date, there have been several studies on country based passwords by authors who studied, amongst others, English, Finnish, Italian and Chinese based passwords. However, there has been a lack of focused study on the type of passwords that are being created in Africa and whether there are benefits in creating passwords in an African language. For this research, password databases containing LAN Manager (LM) and NT LAN Manager (NTLM) hashes extracted from South African organisations in a variety of sectors in the economy, were obtained to gain an understanding of user behaviour in creating passwords. Analysis of the passwords obtained from these hashes (using several cracking methods) showed that many organisational passwords are based on the English language. This is understandable considering that the business language in South Africa is English even though South Africa has 11 official languages. African language based passwords were derived from known English weak passwords and some of the passwords were appended with numbers and special characters. The African based passwords created using eight Southern African languages were then uploaded to the Internet to test the security around using passwords based on African languages. Since most of the passwords were able to be cracked by third party researchers, we conclude that any password that is derived from known weak English words marked no improvement in the security of a password written in an African language, especially the more widely spoken languages, namely, isiZulu, isiXhosa and Setswana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the Social and Structural basis for the emergence of social movements in Zimbabwe. A Comparative study of the Combined Harare Residents Association and Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association
- Authors: Chaitezvi, Trevour
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social movements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci (Sociology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17564 , vital:41091
- Description: The emergence of urban social movements in the Zimbabwean context is mainly attributed to the political economic crisis, which resulted in the decline of municipal services and other socioeconomic rights central to the ordinary people. In the rural areas many scholars have alluded to the failure of the state to institute a radical transformation of the rural areas as the reason for the emergence of land movement and the subsequent land revolutions that followed in the early 2000s. Within this context, this study sought to investigate the social and structural basis for the emergence of social movements in Zimbabwe. The argument of this study hinges on the central premise of the political opportunity structure approach, which states that the emergence and success of social movements depends on certain political opportunities within the political environment. Building upon the guidance of the qualitative paradigm, whose method of investigation includes in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the findings illustrate that the emergence of rural social movements in Zimbabwe was mainly to address the land question; such initiatives were to be done through fighting imperialism that hinges upon neo-liberal policies. In addition, one of the objectives for the emergence of rural social movements was to complete the objective of the liberation war, which was to give back the land to the indigenous black people. The tactics of the rural social movement included engaging the state and confronting it in other instances. Further, illegal land occupations were also one of the tactics of this movement. Ideologically, the movement used a Pan-African ideology to confront neo-colonization. On the other hand, the findings of the study illustrate that the emergence of urban social movements was mainly to provide a platform for the marginalized people to voice their discontent of the decline of service delivery in the urban context. Since most of these aspects were linked to the broader economic crisis facing the country, urban social movements also intended to initiate a political transition. The tactics of urban social movements included disruption, the establishment of networks with other social movements and the use of media, while constructing their ideology within the human rights framewo
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chaitezvi, Trevour
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social movements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci (Sociology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17564 , vital:41091
- Description: The emergence of urban social movements in the Zimbabwean context is mainly attributed to the political economic crisis, which resulted in the decline of municipal services and other socioeconomic rights central to the ordinary people. In the rural areas many scholars have alluded to the failure of the state to institute a radical transformation of the rural areas as the reason for the emergence of land movement and the subsequent land revolutions that followed in the early 2000s. Within this context, this study sought to investigate the social and structural basis for the emergence of social movements in Zimbabwe. The argument of this study hinges on the central premise of the political opportunity structure approach, which states that the emergence and success of social movements depends on certain political opportunities within the political environment. Building upon the guidance of the qualitative paradigm, whose method of investigation includes in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the findings illustrate that the emergence of rural social movements in Zimbabwe was mainly to address the land question; such initiatives were to be done through fighting imperialism that hinges upon neo-liberal policies. In addition, one of the objectives for the emergence of rural social movements was to complete the objective of the liberation war, which was to give back the land to the indigenous black people. The tactics of the rural social movement included engaging the state and confronting it in other instances. Further, illegal land occupations were also one of the tactics of this movement. Ideologically, the movement used a Pan-African ideology to confront neo-colonization. On the other hand, the findings of the study illustrate that the emergence of urban social movements was mainly to provide a platform for the marginalized people to voice their discontent of the decline of service delivery in the urban context. Since most of these aspects were linked to the broader economic crisis facing the country, urban social movements also intended to initiate a political transition. The tactics of urban social movements included disruption, the establishment of networks with other social movements and the use of media, while constructing their ideology within the human rights framewo
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the teaching of writing in Grade-9 English first-language classrooms: a case study of a selected government school in Namibia
- Martins, Simone Alexandra Domingues
- Authors: Martins, Simone Alexandra Domingues
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language -- Rhetoric -- Study and teaching -- Namibia , English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , English language == Composition and exercises -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92280 , vital:30699
- Description: The pedagogical practice choices teachers make when teaching writing in Grade-9 English first- language classrooms, as well as the extent to which these pedagogical practices appear to enable or constrain learners’ acquisition of writing skills as per grade-specific curricular expectations, are the focus of the study. It draws from Bernstein’s (1971) curriculum and society theory, as well as genre theory. Located within the qualitative case study approach, it is designed to investigate the reasons for Grade-9 English first-language learners’ underperformance in Paper 2, the composition component of the Namibian external examinations. Drawing from the interpretivist paradigm, the study uses one-on-one interviews, semi-structured classroom observations, as well as documentary evidence of the Namibian English first-language syllabus and examples of learners’ written work, to generate data. The research site and study participants were purposefully selected. The study involves two Grade-9 English first-language teachers and classrooms at one Namibian High School, and took place from the second to the third terms of 2017.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Martins, Simone Alexandra Domingues
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language -- Rhetoric -- Study and teaching -- Namibia , English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , English language == Composition and exercises -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92280 , vital:30699
- Description: The pedagogical practice choices teachers make when teaching writing in Grade-9 English first- language classrooms, as well as the extent to which these pedagogical practices appear to enable or constrain learners’ acquisition of writing skills as per grade-specific curricular expectations, are the focus of the study. It draws from Bernstein’s (1971) curriculum and society theory, as well as genre theory. Located within the qualitative case study approach, it is designed to investigate the reasons for Grade-9 English first-language learners’ underperformance in Paper 2, the composition component of the Namibian external examinations. Drawing from the interpretivist paradigm, the study uses one-on-one interviews, semi-structured classroom observations, as well as documentary evidence of the Namibian English first-language syllabus and examples of learners’ written work, to generate data. The research site and study participants were purposefully selected. The study involves two Grade-9 English first-language teachers and classrooms at one Namibian High School, and took place from the second to the third terms of 2017.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation ofthe effectiveness of using analogies to develop a robust understanding of direct current (DC) electric circuits in first-year university students
- Authors: Bacela, Mpathi Collin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42443 , vital:36657
- Description: The effectiveness of using a teaching strategy, based on analogies for direct current electric circuits, to attempt to address first-year underprepared university students was investigated. The study consisted of 53 participants drawn from the Faculty of Health Sciences at Nelson Mandela University. A quantitative research design was adopted using the “Determining and Interpreting Resistive Electric Circuits Concepts Test” (DIRECT) version 1.2 as a research instrument. The DIRECT is a 29-item multiple-choice test with only one correct answer in each question. The DIRECT was modified to further probe students’ confidence levels in their answers. The instrument served as a pre-test prior to the start of the formal lessons on direct current electric circuits. At the end of a five-week treatment period, the same instrument was administered to all participants as a post-test. The statistical analysis and interpretation of the preand post-test data were conducted using Software Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 and STATISTICA version 12. In answering the main research question (How can a misconception-based module, using analogies,positively influence(or not)academically under-prepared first-year non-major Physics students’ conceptual understanding of direct current(DC)electricalcircuits?)and sub-questions thereof, the students’ mean scores between the pre-and posttest were calculate and compared using t-test at a significant level of 0.05. The results revealed a statistically significant difference between the preand post-test mean scores. The pre-test mean score was 22.24 with a standard deviation of 8.07. The post-test mean score was 38.68 with a standard deviation of 13.93. The mean score difference between the post-test and pre-test was 16.44 with a standard deviation of 13.82 at p-value less than 0.05. The results from the pre-test suggest that students held very strong alternative conceptions on direct current electric circuits. The post-test results also revealed that some alternative conceptions were still held onto after the intervention. There wasno statistical significant difference found between the students’ correct answers and their confidence levels. The quantitative analysis of the results suggested that there is a positive change between the post-testmean score and pre-test mean score and this change is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The results showed sufficient evidence to conclude that analogies-based teaching strategy was a vieffective means of reducing the number of alternative conceptions the students held about direct current electric circuits. The study recommended the need to ascertain out what the students felt about the improvement of their understanding of direct current electric circuits concepts. The study suggested a qualitative research methodology as an area for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bacela, Mpathi Collin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42443 , vital:36657
- Description: The effectiveness of using a teaching strategy, based on analogies for direct current electric circuits, to attempt to address first-year underprepared university students was investigated. The study consisted of 53 participants drawn from the Faculty of Health Sciences at Nelson Mandela University. A quantitative research design was adopted using the “Determining and Interpreting Resistive Electric Circuits Concepts Test” (DIRECT) version 1.2 as a research instrument. The DIRECT is a 29-item multiple-choice test with only one correct answer in each question. The DIRECT was modified to further probe students’ confidence levels in their answers. The instrument served as a pre-test prior to the start of the formal lessons on direct current electric circuits. At the end of a five-week treatment period, the same instrument was administered to all participants as a post-test. The statistical analysis and interpretation of the preand post-test data were conducted using Software Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 and STATISTICA version 12. In answering the main research question (How can a misconception-based module, using analogies,positively influence(or not)academically under-prepared first-year non-major Physics students’ conceptual understanding of direct current(DC)electricalcircuits?)and sub-questions thereof, the students’ mean scores between the pre-and posttest were calculate and compared using t-test at a significant level of 0.05. The results revealed a statistically significant difference between the preand post-test mean scores. The pre-test mean score was 22.24 with a standard deviation of 8.07. The post-test mean score was 38.68 with a standard deviation of 13.93. The mean score difference between the post-test and pre-test was 16.44 with a standard deviation of 13.82 at p-value less than 0.05. The results from the pre-test suggest that students held very strong alternative conceptions on direct current electric circuits. The post-test results also revealed that some alternative conceptions were still held onto after the intervention. There wasno statistical significant difference found between the students’ correct answers and their confidence levels. The quantitative analysis of the results suggested that there is a positive change between the post-testmean score and pre-test mean score and this change is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The results showed sufficient evidence to conclude that analogies-based teaching strategy was a vieffective means of reducing the number of alternative conceptions the students held about direct current electric circuits. The study recommended the need to ascertain out what the students felt about the improvement of their understanding of direct current electric circuits concepts. The study suggested a qualitative research methodology as an area for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An oversimplification of physiological principles leads to flawed macroecological analyses
- Boyles, Justin G, Levesque, Danielle L, Nowack, Julia, Wojciechowski, Michal S, Stawski, Clare, Fuller, Andrea, Smit, Ben, Tattersall, Glenn J
- Authors: Boyles, Justin G , Levesque, Danielle L , Nowack, Julia , Wojciechowski, Michal S , Stawski, Clare , Fuller, Andrea , Smit, Ben , Tattersall, Glenn J
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/440505 , vital:73788 , https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.5721
- Description: In light of the rapidly changing climate, there is an urgent need to develop a mechanistic understanding of how physiological functioning mediates ecological patterns. Recently, there has been a spate of papers using analyses that scale up from a standard physiological model, the Scholander–Irving model, to make predictions about range constraints on endothermic vertebrates (Buckley, Khaliq, Swanson, and Hof, 2018; Fristoe et al., 2015; Khaliq, Böhning‐Gaese, Prinzinger, Pfenninger, and Hof, 2017; Khaliq, Hof, Prinzinger, Böhning‐Gaese, and Pfenninger, 2014). Here, we argue that oversimplifications of the Scholander–Irving model and the use of questionable datasets lead to questionable macrophysiological analyses. Many of these problems have been addressed elsewhere, directly and indirectly (eg, McKechnie, Coe, Gerson, and Wolf, 2017; Mitchell et al., 2018), although the focus has largely been on the applicability of the Scholander–Irving model to warm environmental temperatures, which are often seen as more relevant to climate change. However, one specific aspect of the Scholander–Irving model, the assumption that energy expenditure of an endotherm below the thermoneutral zone (TNZ) can be described by basic Newtonian physics, has been used incorrectly in several papers. While not the only paper based on this assumption, the recent work by Buckley et al.(2018) reinvigorated discussions among physiologists about improper interpretations of the Scholander–Irving model. Our concerns are not new and have been voiced repeatedly in the past (Calder and Schmidt‐Nielsen, 1967; King, 1964; Tracy, 1972), but many of these ideas seem to have been buried by time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Boyles, Justin G , Levesque, Danielle L , Nowack, Julia , Wojciechowski, Michal S , Stawski, Clare , Fuller, Andrea , Smit, Ben , Tattersall, Glenn J
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/440505 , vital:73788 , https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.5721
- Description: In light of the rapidly changing climate, there is an urgent need to develop a mechanistic understanding of how physiological functioning mediates ecological patterns. Recently, there has been a spate of papers using analyses that scale up from a standard physiological model, the Scholander–Irving model, to make predictions about range constraints on endothermic vertebrates (Buckley, Khaliq, Swanson, and Hof, 2018; Fristoe et al., 2015; Khaliq, Böhning‐Gaese, Prinzinger, Pfenninger, and Hof, 2017; Khaliq, Hof, Prinzinger, Böhning‐Gaese, and Pfenninger, 2014). Here, we argue that oversimplifications of the Scholander–Irving model and the use of questionable datasets lead to questionable macrophysiological analyses. Many of these problems have been addressed elsewhere, directly and indirectly (eg, McKechnie, Coe, Gerson, and Wolf, 2017; Mitchell et al., 2018), although the focus has largely been on the applicability of the Scholander–Irving model to warm environmental temperatures, which are often seen as more relevant to climate change. However, one specific aspect of the Scholander–Irving model, the assumption that energy expenditure of an endotherm below the thermoneutral zone (TNZ) can be described by basic Newtonian physics, has been used incorrectly in several papers. While not the only paper based on this assumption, the recent work by Buckley et al.(2018) reinvigorated discussions among physiologists about improper interpretations of the Scholander–Irving model. Our concerns are not new and have been voiced repeatedly in the past (Calder and Schmidt‐Nielsen, 1967; King, 1964; Tracy, 1972), but many of these ideas seem to have been buried by time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analyses of Retail and Transport Geography of Liquefied Petroleum Products in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria
- Authors: Ajayi, Adeyinka Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Petroleum products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19065 , vital:40090
- Description: This study analyzed the effects that spatial arrangement of petroleum products retail outlets and the supply chain management techniques employed for products distribution (for both intra city and intercity shipments) have on the retailing dynamism of petroleum products within built environment and peripherals of Ibadan metropolis over the years. Specifically, the study investigated the differentials in the spatial configurations of petroleum products retail outlets between the core and periurban zones of the metropolis. An attempt was made to determine the explanatory variables that influence the spatial distributional decisions of petroleum products retail outlets in the metropolis. The study equally examined how the supply chain management (SCM) techniques by the different categories of the retail outlet owners influence the efficient and cost effective distribution of petroleum products. Lastly an attempt was made to analyze the relationship between the socio-economic attributes of the haulers and the achievement of compliance to the HSE stipulations guiding the conveyance of petroleum products. The theoretical underpinnings for the research were a derivative of the amalgamation of normative and psychological theories from geography, psychology, SCM and retailing science. Specifically, Expectation Disconfirmation Theory (EDT), Distributive Justice, Central Place Theory (CPT) Theories of Urban Impact (TUI) and Theory of Constraint (ToC) were the theories utilized in the study. For the achievement of the first objective which was to investigate the possible differential in the compliance rate between spatial pattern of fuel retail outlets in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis, the first hypothesis of the study (which examined if there was no significant difference in the rate of compliance to the planning authority stipulations guiding the location pattern of petroleum product retail outlets between those located in the built up and xxiv peripheral zones of the city), was tested through the use of buffering and proximity analyses in the ArcMap environment of ArcGIS 10.1, while inferential statistical tool of an independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the rate of compliance to the stipulations guiding the locations of these outlets in both the core and the peripheral zones. The result from the GIS analysis indicated that 33 (15.56%) out of the 220 outlets in the core zone of the metropolis complied with the planning stipulations guiding the location of fuel retail outlets. For the peripheral zone, out of the 220 fuel retail outlets 24 (10.90%) complied with the stipulations. The result from the t- test which was employed to test the hypothesis indicated that no significant difference existed in the rate of compliance t (263) =-2.66, p = 0.08 between fuel retail outlets in the core zone (M=3.9, SD=1.4) and peripheral zone (M=4.5, SD=1.79). The alternate hypothesis which stated that ―no significant difference existed in the compliance rate between fuel retail outlets located in the two zones‖ is accepted. For the achievement of the second objective of the study which was to analyze the factors which determine the location of fuel retail outlets both in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis. All the managers/owners of the 432 fuel retail outlets in the metropolis were sampled out of which 256 questionnaires were retrieved for the purpose of this analysis. The breakdown of the socio-economic characteristics of the sampled respondents showed that the gender distribution showed that 194 (75.78%) of the respondents were males, while 64 (24.22 %) were females. The average age of the sampled population was 33.70 years. The mixed method was employed for the achievement of the second objective of this study. Logistic Regression Model (LRM) was employed to test the hypothesis and the result revealed that the inclusion of the independent variables in the model increased the overall level of it accuracy. The overall significance revealed that the Model Chi- xxv Square, derived from the likelihood fitted is also accurate (X2 = 43.47, df=5, p>.05). The model chi-square value of 43.47 (approximately 44% ) was significant. Thus, the indication is that the model has a good fit in predicting the possibility of a fuel retail outlet being located in the core or peripheral zone of the metropolis as determined by the explanatory variables (the independent variables accounted for about 44% of possible factors which determined whether a fuel retail outlets is located either within the core or peripheral zones of the metropolis. The remaining 56% are factors not considered in the study). The result gotten from the in depth interview sessions corroborated the findings from the tested hypothesis. The third objective was to examine the effects which the supply chain technique employed (either vertically integrated model or third-party arrangement) has on the achievement of efficient and effective distribution of the products. In order to achieve this objective, all the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) association who are members of the PTD in the metropolis were sampled, 265 (around 70%) of the distributed questionnaires were retrieved and used for the analysis. In depth interview sessions were also conducted with three different managers of the three major conglomerates in the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum sector. The result of one-way between subjects (ANOVA) which was conducted to compare differences in the management and performances of haulage services outsourced to the 3PLS and those run under VIM showed that there was a significant effect of ownership type on management performance (F (2,262) = 60.26, p<.05). The null hypothesis was therefore rejected while the alternate hypothesis was accepted. The findings from the interview sessions posted similar results. The fourth and final objective was to analyze the effect that the socio-economic attributes of the participants (haulers and managers of retail outlets) involved in the distribution of xxvi petroleum products has on the safe, efficient and cost-effective distribution of product and this was done through the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and incisive analysis of the interview sessions. A total number of 265 (70%) out of the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Driver Association (PTDA) participated in the study. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) was used to test this hypothesis. The result from the statistical analysis show that the use of stimulant, work condition, marital status and educational attainment/literacy level have joint influence on compliance (R2 = 0.31, F (4,260) = 29.72, p<.05). On the basis of the foregoing, the hypothesis is thus accepted. The result from the interview sessions confirmed the existence of strong relationship between the explanatory variables and the hypothetical dependant variable. The study recommended a review of the planning processes guiding the establishment of fuel retail outlets. The study also advocated that retailers should endeavour to have stronger control over the supply chain of their products this could done by investing more in VIM rather than outsourcing such functions to 3PLs. This will help in better business performances. Government agencies in charge of monitoring drug abuse among haulers are advised to be more proactive by the duo of prevention and punishment strategies. This should include advocacy campaign against drug abuse. Different ranges of punishments should also be meted out for individual haulers found culpable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ajayi, Adeyinka Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Petroleum products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19065 , vital:40090
- Description: This study analyzed the effects that spatial arrangement of petroleum products retail outlets and the supply chain management techniques employed for products distribution (for both intra city and intercity shipments) have on the retailing dynamism of petroleum products within built environment and peripherals of Ibadan metropolis over the years. Specifically, the study investigated the differentials in the spatial configurations of petroleum products retail outlets between the core and periurban zones of the metropolis. An attempt was made to determine the explanatory variables that influence the spatial distributional decisions of petroleum products retail outlets in the metropolis. The study equally examined how the supply chain management (SCM) techniques by the different categories of the retail outlet owners influence the efficient and cost effective distribution of petroleum products. Lastly an attempt was made to analyze the relationship between the socio-economic attributes of the haulers and the achievement of compliance to the HSE stipulations guiding the conveyance of petroleum products. The theoretical underpinnings for the research were a derivative of the amalgamation of normative and psychological theories from geography, psychology, SCM and retailing science. Specifically, Expectation Disconfirmation Theory (EDT), Distributive Justice, Central Place Theory (CPT) Theories of Urban Impact (TUI) and Theory of Constraint (ToC) were the theories utilized in the study. For the achievement of the first objective which was to investigate the possible differential in the compliance rate between spatial pattern of fuel retail outlets in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis, the first hypothesis of the study (which examined if there was no significant difference in the rate of compliance to the planning authority stipulations guiding the location pattern of petroleum product retail outlets between those located in the built up and xxiv peripheral zones of the city), was tested through the use of buffering and proximity analyses in the ArcMap environment of ArcGIS 10.1, while inferential statistical tool of an independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the rate of compliance to the stipulations guiding the locations of these outlets in both the core and the peripheral zones. The result from the GIS analysis indicated that 33 (15.56%) out of the 220 outlets in the core zone of the metropolis complied with the planning stipulations guiding the location of fuel retail outlets. For the peripheral zone, out of the 220 fuel retail outlets 24 (10.90%) complied with the stipulations. The result from the t- test which was employed to test the hypothesis indicated that no significant difference existed in the rate of compliance t (263) =-2.66, p = 0.08 between fuel retail outlets in the core zone (M=3.9, SD=1.4) and peripheral zone (M=4.5, SD=1.79). The alternate hypothesis which stated that ―no significant difference existed in the compliance rate between fuel retail outlets located in the two zones‖ is accepted. For the achievement of the second objective of the study which was to analyze the factors which determine the location of fuel retail outlets both in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis. All the managers/owners of the 432 fuel retail outlets in the metropolis were sampled out of which 256 questionnaires were retrieved for the purpose of this analysis. The breakdown of the socio-economic characteristics of the sampled respondents showed that the gender distribution showed that 194 (75.78%) of the respondents were males, while 64 (24.22 %) were females. The average age of the sampled population was 33.70 years. The mixed method was employed for the achievement of the second objective of this study. Logistic Regression Model (LRM) was employed to test the hypothesis and the result revealed that the inclusion of the independent variables in the model increased the overall level of it accuracy. The overall significance revealed that the Model Chi- xxv Square, derived from the likelihood fitted is also accurate (X2 = 43.47, df=5, p>.05). The model chi-square value of 43.47 (approximately 44% ) was significant. Thus, the indication is that the model has a good fit in predicting the possibility of a fuel retail outlet being located in the core or peripheral zone of the metropolis as determined by the explanatory variables (the independent variables accounted for about 44% of possible factors which determined whether a fuel retail outlets is located either within the core or peripheral zones of the metropolis. The remaining 56% are factors not considered in the study). The result gotten from the in depth interview sessions corroborated the findings from the tested hypothesis. The third objective was to examine the effects which the supply chain technique employed (either vertically integrated model or third-party arrangement) has on the achievement of efficient and effective distribution of the products. In order to achieve this objective, all the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) association who are members of the PTD in the metropolis were sampled, 265 (around 70%) of the distributed questionnaires were retrieved and used for the analysis. In depth interview sessions were also conducted with three different managers of the three major conglomerates in the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum sector. The result of one-way between subjects (ANOVA) which was conducted to compare differences in the management and performances of haulage services outsourced to the 3PLS and those run under VIM showed that there was a significant effect of ownership type on management performance (F (2,262) = 60.26, p<.05). The null hypothesis was therefore rejected while the alternate hypothesis was accepted. The findings from the interview sessions posted similar results. The fourth and final objective was to analyze the effect that the socio-economic attributes of the participants (haulers and managers of retail outlets) involved in the distribution of xxvi petroleum products has on the safe, efficient and cost-effective distribution of product and this was done through the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and incisive analysis of the interview sessions. A total number of 265 (70%) out of the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Driver Association (PTDA) participated in the study. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) was used to test this hypothesis. The result from the statistical analysis show that the use of stimulant, work condition, marital status and educational attainment/literacy level have joint influence on compliance (R2 = 0.31, F (4,260) = 29.72, p<.05). On the basis of the foregoing, the hypothesis is thus accepted. The result from the interview sessions confirmed the existence of strong relationship between the explanatory variables and the hypothetical dependant variable. The study recommended a review of the planning processes guiding the establishment of fuel retail outlets. The study also advocated that retailers should endeavour to have stronger control over the supply chain of their products this could done by investing more in VIM rather than outsourcing such functions to 3PLs. This will help in better business performances. Government agencies in charge of monitoring drug abuse among haulers are advised to be more proactive by the duo of prevention and punishment strategies. This should include advocacy campaign against drug abuse. Different ranges of punishments should also be meted out for individual haulers found culpable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analysis of monitoring and evaluation as an internal control measure for supply chain management: a case for department of public works and transport
- Authors: Mfeketo, Lunga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics , Industrial procurement Inventory control Physical distribution of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41327 , vital:36445
- Description: The National Treasury Regulations (2009) require all government departments to exercise transparency, openness and fairness in the procurement of all goods and services. The aim of this study was to analyse and determine the use of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) as an internal control measure in the supply chain management (SCM) process by the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRT), Sarah Baartman District Center. Poor internal controls, in relation to SCM regulatory framework compliance, remains a key challenge for the DPWT which led to negative performance information in the audit findings (Auditor-General, 2016/17). SCM falls within the finance management pillar which is one of the most important governance areas in public resource management. The study presents the place and nature of the public SCM environment, relevant theories and legislative frameworks towards an efficient and transparent SCM value chain. The Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA) is meant “To regulate financial management in the national government and provincial governments; to ensure that all revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities of those governments are managed efficiently and effectively; to provide for the responsibilities of persons entrusted with financial management in those governments; and to provide for matters connected therewith”. The study adopted a qualitative documentary analysis research approach. A core finding of the study suggested that the provincial sphere of government needed to develop a participatory provincial government strategy for provincial development. A key recommendation that has been forwarded, suggests that the government needs to strengthen the policy on provincial management in order to facilitate sustainable economic growth and thereby promote social welfare gains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mfeketo, Lunga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics , Industrial procurement Inventory control Physical distribution of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41327 , vital:36445
- Description: The National Treasury Regulations (2009) require all government departments to exercise transparency, openness and fairness in the procurement of all goods and services. The aim of this study was to analyse and determine the use of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) as an internal control measure in the supply chain management (SCM) process by the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRT), Sarah Baartman District Center. Poor internal controls, in relation to SCM regulatory framework compliance, remains a key challenge for the DPWT which led to negative performance information in the audit findings (Auditor-General, 2016/17). SCM falls within the finance management pillar which is one of the most important governance areas in public resource management. The study presents the place and nature of the public SCM environment, relevant theories and legislative frameworks towards an efficient and transparent SCM value chain. The Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA) is meant “To regulate financial management in the national government and provincial governments; to ensure that all revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities of those governments are managed efficiently and effectively; to provide for the responsibilities of persons entrusted with financial management in those governments; and to provide for matters connected therewith”. The study adopted a qualitative documentary analysis research approach. A core finding of the study suggested that the provincial sphere of government needed to develop a participatory provincial government strategy for provincial development. A key recommendation that has been forwarded, suggests that the government needs to strengthen the policy on provincial management in order to facilitate sustainable economic growth and thereby promote social welfare gains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analysis of strategies for an effective Supply Chain Management Policy Framework in the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Authors: Balman, Vuyani Brian
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial procurement -- Management Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36299 , vital:33918
- Description: After the 1994 general elections, the government realised the importance of efficient and effective financial management and public sector procurement for the rebuilding of South Africa. This was done by embarking on a major review of its financial and supply chain management systems. The financial and supply chain management systems operate in an ever-changing environment, and that requires that these systems are fit for purpose. Supply Chain Management is one of the cornerstones for the performance of any organisation or company. Section 217 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa requires organs of state irrespective of whether they are at National, Provincial or Local government level to apply a procurement system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective when contracting for goods and services. The Constitution also attempts to protect and advance persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. Supply Chain Management has met an ever-increasing interest over the past decade. This interest comes from within the industry due to the huge amounts involved in procurement and the supply chain value creation. Every society strives to be in a state where every need is available and every citizen has what he/she requires to be able to leave a fulfilled life. In order to meet the needs of societies, member of the society carry out economic activities. The public procurement practice and systems have been acclaimed, based on empirical evidence, as the best means of guaranteeing the provision of public goods to the Citizens and public expenditure management.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Balman, Vuyani Brian
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial procurement -- Management Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36299 , vital:33918
- Description: After the 1994 general elections, the government realised the importance of efficient and effective financial management and public sector procurement for the rebuilding of South Africa. This was done by embarking on a major review of its financial and supply chain management systems. The financial and supply chain management systems operate in an ever-changing environment, and that requires that these systems are fit for purpose. Supply Chain Management is one of the cornerstones for the performance of any organisation or company. Section 217 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa requires organs of state irrespective of whether they are at National, Provincial or Local government level to apply a procurement system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective when contracting for goods and services. The Constitution also attempts to protect and advance persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. Supply Chain Management has met an ever-increasing interest over the past decade. This interest comes from within the industry due to the huge amounts involved in procurement and the supply chain value creation. Every society strives to be in a state where every need is available and every citizen has what he/she requires to be able to leave a fulfilled life. In order to meet the needs of societies, member of the society carry out economic activities. The public procurement practice and systems have been acclaimed, based on empirical evidence, as the best means of guaranteeing the provision of public goods to the Citizens and public expenditure management.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Analysis of the pre- to post- apartheid language in education policies: an investigation for multilingualism
- Authors: Zumani, Nobesutu Faith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Multilingual education -- South Africa , Native language and education -- South Africa Language policy -- South Africa African languages -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44235 , vital:37140
- Description: The 1997 language policy in basic education promotes multilingualism in basic, education where there is under-utilisation of African languages. The main aim of this study is to investigate the reason for the under-utilisation of African languages in basic education. Transitional bilingual education is practised (TBE) instead of developmental maintenance bilingual education (MBE). The pre and post-apartheid language- in-education policies, including the Constitution, were collected, analysed and interpreted to find out why these languages are not used for education. It was discovered that the legacy of the previous policies has had an influence on the present policy. Also, the escape clauses on the present policy, such as “practicably reasonable,” and “choose,” have an impact on non-implementation of the post-apartheid language policy. The researcher recommends the development of an implementation plan and the revision of powers for SGBs to choose languages for their schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Zumani, Nobesutu Faith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Multilingual education -- South Africa , Native language and education -- South Africa Language policy -- South Africa African languages -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44235 , vital:37140
- Description: The 1997 language policy in basic education promotes multilingualism in basic, education where there is under-utilisation of African languages. The main aim of this study is to investigate the reason for the under-utilisation of African languages in basic education. Transitional bilingual education is practised (TBE) instead of developmental maintenance bilingual education (MBE). The pre and post-apartheid language- in-education policies, including the Constitution, were collected, analysed and interpreted to find out why these languages are not used for education. It was discovered that the legacy of the previous policies has had an influence on the present policy. Also, the escape clauses on the present policy, such as “practicably reasonable,” and “choose,” have an impact on non-implementation of the post-apartheid language policy. The researcher recommends the development of an implementation plan and the revision of powers for SGBs to choose languages for their schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analyzing the Anthropogenic Allee Effect in cycad (Encephalartos species) populations in South Africa: an evaluation of illegal trade and conservation policy
- Authors: Earle, Sasha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Allee effect , Cycads -- Conservation -- South Africa , Botany, Economic -- South Africa , Rare plants -- South Africa , Endangered plants -- South Africa , Wild plant trade -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , Mcom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/95565 , vital:31171
- Description: South Africa is a country known for rich biodiversity and ecosystems across the land and seascape. South Africa is one of the global hotspots for cycad diversity. Cycads are known to be the world’s most threatened plant species; declining in South Africa at a rapid pace, with threat of extinction in the wild. The main factor being harvesting from the wild for private collections. Rare cycad species’ are especially sought after by collectors. Economic theory assumes that the exploitation of a species is unlikely to result in extinction due to the increasing costs of finding the last few individuals of a species. However, the theory of the Anthropogenic Allee Effect (AAE) suggests that if consumers place a disproportionate value on a rare species’, a cycle may result whereby increased exploitation decreases population size, increasing the value of the species and, consequently, leading to its extinction in the wild. This hypothesis was tested for 37 Encephalartos species using data collected on wild populations, auction prices and the IUCN Red List status for the year 2010. It was hypothesised that an AAE was present within Encephalartos species, as three species have already gone extinct in the wild. The price per centimetre was positively correlated to the rarity of the species and the price per centimetre was negatively correlated to the wild population size. The results suggest a trend of an AAE for the year 2010. Adequate conservation policies are needed to reduce the effects of demand on illegal harvesting and prevent extinction in the wild. The effect of rarity needs to be taken into account to ensure successfulness of such policies. The most recent conservation policy implemented to protect cycads in South Africa is the Strategy and Action for the Management of Cycads in South Africa, which was introduced in 2016. The successfulness of this policy cannot, however, be analysed due to a lack of census data following its implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Earle, Sasha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Allee effect , Cycads -- Conservation -- South Africa , Botany, Economic -- South Africa , Rare plants -- South Africa , Endangered plants -- South Africa , Wild plant trade -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , Mcom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/95565 , vital:31171
- Description: South Africa is a country known for rich biodiversity and ecosystems across the land and seascape. South Africa is one of the global hotspots for cycad diversity. Cycads are known to be the world’s most threatened plant species; declining in South Africa at a rapid pace, with threat of extinction in the wild. The main factor being harvesting from the wild for private collections. Rare cycad species’ are especially sought after by collectors. Economic theory assumes that the exploitation of a species is unlikely to result in extinction due to the increasing costs of finding the last few individuals of a species. However, the theory of the Anthropogenic Allee Effect (AAE) suggests that if consumers place a disproportionate value on a rare species’, a cycle may result whereby increased exploitation decreases population size, increasing the value of the species and, consequently, leading to its extinction in the wild. This hypothesis was tested for 37 Encephalartos species using data collected on wild populations, auction prices and the IUCN Red List status for the year 2010. It was hypothesised that an AAE was present within Encephalartos species, as three species have already gone extinct in the wild. The price per centimetre was positively correlated to the rarity of the species and the price per centimetre was negatively correlated to the wild population size. The results suggest a trend of an AAE for the year 2010. Adequate conservation policies are needed to reduce the effects of demand on illegal harvesting and prevent extinction in the wild. The effect of rarity needs to be taken into account to ensure successfulness of such policies. The most recent conservation policy implemented to protect cycads in South Africa is the Strategy and Action for the Management of Cycads in South Africa, which was introduced in 2016. The successfulness of this policy cannot, however, be analysed due to a lack of census data following its implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Another world is possible: the socialist mural in Luanda as Visual Anticipation of a New Socialist Society. We travel the SpaceWay-Black Imagination, Fragments and Diffractions
- Authors: Siegert, Nadine
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146309 , vital:38514 , ISBN 9783960915300
- Description: Book abstract. From the visual politics of the FRELIMO-liberation script in Mozambique via the brooms and spoons of Le Balai Citoyen in Burkina Faso, to the updating of images from past revolutions on Twitter and Facebook, often in the diaspora – images play a key role in the envisioning of futures and social utopia. And more than that: Revolutions, understood as moments of radical social and cultural change, are driven by images, as empirical investigations on- and offline show. But what actually constitutes the 'seismographic power' of images, and the sustainability of icons from past ruptures in terms of radicalism, such as the portraits of Burkina Faso's and Mozambiques first presidents' Thomas Sankara and Samora Machel?.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Siegert, Nadine
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146309 , vital:38514 , ISBN 9783960915300
- Description: Book abstract. From the visual politics of the FRELIMO-liberation script in Mozambique via the brooms and spoons of Le Balai Citoyen in Burkina Faso, to the updating of images from past revolutions on Twitter and Facebook, often in the diaspora – images play a key role in the envisioning of futures and social utopia. And more than that: Revolutions, understood as moments of radical social and cultural change, are driven by images, as empirical investigations on- and offline show. But what actually constitutes the 'seismographic power' of images, and the sustainability of icons from past ruptures in terms of radicalism, such as the portraits of Burkina Faso's and Mozambiques first presidents' Thomas Sankara and Samora Machel?.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Antecedents and influence of the union-management relationship on employee relationships in the automotive, component and metal industries in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Bowler, Jennifer
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations, South Africa , Psychology, Industrial Work environment Industrial relations Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37150 , vital:34126
- Description: South Africa is consistently portrayed as having uncooperative union-management relationships which negatively impact competitiveness. However, the post-1994 labour legislation was specifically crafted with the intention of positioning the adversarial wealth distribution phase of the union-management relationship within centralised bargaining forums and promoting cooperative relationships within workplaces. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether within the South Africa context of global competitiveness, the employment relations institutions of centralised and decentralised collective bargaining, employee participation and involvement, in the context of organisational justice, have contributed to management, shop stewards and production employees developing effective1 collective and individual employment relationships positively associated with competitive individual and company performance. The targeted population were companies within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area that were registered with one of the four bargaining councils, Automotive (NBF), Automotive component (MIBCO), New Tyre (NTMIBC) and Metal and Engineering (MEIBC). In addition, since the National Union of Metal Workers was the dominant union in all four of these councils, an additional criterion for potential participation was at least one NUMSA shop steward. Fourteen companies agreed to participate. In total 63 shop stewards, 82 managers and 660 production employees were surveyed using self-administered questionnaires. The results of the study identified that the three major stakeholders hold significantly different perceptions regarding the quality of the management-shop steward relationship, with management the most positive and production employees the least. Further, investigating the factors that influence the perceptions that management and shop stewards have of their relationship, it was identified that for management the most influential factor was their beliefs regarding the interdependent nature of the relationship. For the shop stewards the situation was more nuanced with beliefs regarding interdependence, the perceptions of shop steward-management climate within the bargaining council, satisfaction 1 Definition of an effective employment relationship: An effective employment relationship is one in which the parties successfully resolve issues arising from their conflicting interests and successfully pursue joint gains where they share common interests (Kochan & Katz, 1988) with bargaining council agreements and workplace human resource practices and procedural fairness all contributing factors to the quality of the shop steward-management relationship. The model tested for production employees investigated the relationship between the factors human resource practices, procedural fairness, the standardisation of work, the employees’ perception of the shop steward-management relationship and the relationship of the employees with both their supervisor and the organisation. The primary finding was that the perception that the production employees held regarding the shop steward-management relationship fully mediated the employees’ relationship with the organisation and partially mediated that with the supervisor. These findings confirm the mediating position occupied by shop stewards within unionised companies and without derogating the importance of supervisory-employee relationships, indicated the central importance of the management-shop steward relations in forging strong employee-manager and employee-organisational bonds. While the original purpose of the study included investigating the link between the key employment relationships, namely, shop steward-management, employee-supervisor and employee-organisation relationships, and company competitiveness, unfortunately due to the limited number of companies that participated, it was not possible to test a company level model that included company performance. However, tentative support was found for relationships between the shop steward-management relationship and company performance. This remains an area for further study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bowler, Jennifer
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations, South Africa , Psychology, Industrial Work environment Industrial relations Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37150 , vital:34126
- Description: South Africa is consistently portrayed as having uncooperative union-management relationships which negatively impact competitiveness. However, the post-1994 labour legislation was specifically crafted with the intention of positioning the adversarial wealth distribution phase of the union-management relationship within centralised bargaining forums and promoting cooperative relationships within workplaces. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether within the South Africa context of global competitiveness, the employment relations institutions of centralised and decentralised collective bargaining, employee participation and involvement, in the context of organisational justice, have contributed to management, shop stewards and production employees developing effective1 collective and individual employment relationships positively associated with competitive individual and company performance. The targeted population were companies within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area that were registered with one of the four bargaining councils, Automotive (NBF), Automotive component (MIBCO), New Tyre (NTMIBC) and Metal and Engineering (MEIBC). In addition, since the National Union of Metal Workers was the dominant union in all four of these councils, an additional criterion for potential participation was at least one NUMSA shop steward. Fourteen companies agreed to participate. In total 63 shop stewards, 82 managers and 660 production employees were surveyed using self-administered questionnaires. The results of the study identified that the three major stakeholders hold significantly different perceptions regarding the quality of the management-shop steward relationship, with management the most positive and production employees the least. Further, investigating the factors that influence the perceptions that management and shop stewards have of their relationship, it was identified that for management the most influential factor was their beliefs regarding the interdependent nature of the relationship. For the shop stewards the situation was more nuanced with beliefs regarding interdependence, the perceptions of shop steward-management climate within the bargaining council, satisfaction 1 Definition of an effective employment relationship: An effective employment relationship is one in which the parties successfully resolve issues arising from their conflicting interests and successfully pursue joint gains where they share common interests (Kochan & Katz, 1988) with bargaining council agreements and workplace human resource practices and procedural fairness all contributing factors to the quality of the shop steward-management relationship. The model tested for production employees investigated the relationship between the factors human resource practices, procedural fairness, the standardisation of work, the employees’ perception of the shop steward-management relationship and the relationship of the employees with both their supervisor and the organisation. The primary finding was that the perception that the production employees held regarding the shop steward-management relationship fully mediated the employees’ relationship with the organisation and partially mediated that with the supervisor. These findings confirm the mediating position occupied by shop stewards within unionised companies and without derogating the importance of supervisory-employee relationships, indicated the central importance of the management-shop steward relations in forging strong employee-manager and employee-organisational bonds. While the original purpose of the study included investigating the link between the key employment relationships, namely, shop steward-management, employee-supervisor and employee-organisation relationships, and company competitiveness, unfortunately due to the limited number of companies that participated, it was not possible to test a company level model that included company performance. However, tentative support was found for relationships between the shop steward-management relationship and company performance. This remains an area for further study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019