A social justice approach for counselling psychology in South Africa: lessons from a collaborative action research intervention
- Authors: Schwartz, Abegail Faraja
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5233 , vital:20791
- Description: In the past decade, increased attention has been paid to the changing role of counselling psychology in South Africa. The aim of this study is to contribute to the debates about the social responsiveness, scope and focus of the field. The following research question was formulated: What lessons about a social justice approach can a counselling psychologist learn from a youth unemployment community engagement activity? Through engagement with a group of unemployed young people about their status and exploring the role that a counselling psychologist might take, a collaborative action research approach was employed. Data were generated through collaborative action research cycles, semi-structured interviews, social media communications and the researcher’s reflective journal. Template analysis was used to make sense of the data and generate preliminary themes. Process findings illustrated the supportive and constraining role of the academic research process, the time frame and the characteristics of the target group. The content-related findings illustrated the impact of contextual and demographic factors on the participants’ unemployed status. The findings confirmed the negative effect of unemployment on psychological well-being despite support from family, friends and community members. Factors such as education and socioeconomic status influenced the job seeking behaviour of participants and although participants were aware that societal change is needed, there was evidence of internalised self-blame. Recommendations emphasise the inclusion of relevant social justice models for the context of South Africa in the training of counselling psychologists; and a pressing need to engage in micro-, meso- and macro-level advocacy to collaboratively debate the identity and scope of practice of the profession and the review of professional and ethical guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Schwartz, Abegail Faraja
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5233 , vital:20791
- Description: In the past decade, increased attention has been paid to the changing role of counselling psychology in South Africa. The aim of this study is to contribute to the debates about the social responsiveness, scope and focus of the field. The following research question was formulated: What lessons about a social justice approach can a counselling psychologist learn from a youth unemployment community engagement activity? Through engagement with a group of unemployed young people about their status and exploring the role that a counselling psychologist might take, a collaborative action research approach was employed. Data were generated through collaborative action research cycles, semi-structured interviews, social media communications and the researcher’s reflective journal. Template analysis was used to make sense of the data and generate preliminary themes. Process findings illustrated the supportive and constraining role of the academic research process, the time frame and the characteristics of the target group. The content-related findings illustrated the impact of contextual and demographic factors on the participants’ unemployed status. The findings confirmed the negative effect of unemployment on psychological well-being despite support from family, friends and community members. Factors such as education and socioeconomic status influenced the job seeking behaviour of participants and although participants were aware that societal change is needed, there was evidence of internalised self-blame. Recommendations emphasise the inclusion of relevant social justice models for the context of South Africa in the training of counselling psychologists; and a pressing need to engage in micro-, meso- and macro-level advocacy to collaboratively debate the identity and scope of practice of the profession and the review of professional and ethical guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A social realist analysis of participation in academic professional development for the integration of digital technologies in higher education
- Authors: Mistri, Gitanjali Umesh
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Education, Higher -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa , Durban University of Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:20936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5510
- Description: The introduction of digital technologies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in keeping with higher education institutions globally, has had a significant impact on the learning environment at the institution. Despite this the anticipated demand for academic professional development (APD) did not materialise at DUT. Using Margaret Archer’s Realist Social Theory (1995) this single-institution case study offers a critical examination of cultural, structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain academic professional development (APD) for the integration of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at a higher education institution in South Africa. Archer’s (1995) morphogenetic approach enabled an investigation of the interface between the conditions encountered by the academics (at macro, meso and micro levels), in order to theorise about the material, ideational and agential conditions that obtained and which in turn influenced the decision to participate or not participate in the APD programmes. This longitudinal study from 2012 until 2016 traced the APD related changes following the decision to promote the implementation of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions as an institutional imperative. The theoretical framework allowed for an examination of the interpretation of the conditions experienced by academics, either as compatible or contradictory to their individual or collective concerns. It further provided an insight into their evaluation of the legitimacy and value of the APD programmes. The study examined the impact of the provision of resources for APD on the nature of the use of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at the site of the case study, the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. The analysis of academic reactions to the changes instituted at both the meso (institutional) and micro (academic professional development) levels revealed that the changes produced conditions that resulted in limited morphogenesis. In particular, it seems that the disruption brought about by the introduction of the technology imperative was accompanied by conditions resulting in further diversification of academic capacities at the institution. This study advances concrete propositions about the conditions that influenced the APD related responses of the academics to the institutionalisation of e-Learning. The research adds to knowledge through insights into the process theory approach to causation, which recognises that structures, mechanisms and events produce unique effects and that the same mechanisms at times produce different events. This study argues that understanding what underlies a certain course of events may enable informed interventions to create better correspondences between APD and the introduction of digital technologies in higher education. Further, this study has generated insights into the importance of taking into consideration the discipline-related knowledge structures in the design and provision of academic development programmes. It is proposed that the incorporation of organising principles of knowledge practices within the academic professional development programme design would earn value and legitimacy for the programme, and promote participation by academics in digital technology-related academic professional development. In summary, the research contributes to an understanding of why it has been that, even with many first order barriers – such as digital access and infrastructural limitations – reduced, the uptake of digital technologies and participation in related academic professional development programmes by academics in higher education has yet to initiate a move beyond doing what is familiar in a digitally-mediated learning environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mistri, Gitanjali Umesh
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Education, Higher -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa , Durban University of Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:20936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5510
- Description: The introduction of digital technologies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in keeping with higher education institutions globally, has had a significant impact on the learning environment at the institution. Despite this the anticipated demand for academic professional development (APD) did not materialise at DUT. Using Margaret Archer’s Realist Social Theory (1995) this single-institution case study offers a critical examination of cultural, structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain academic professional development (APD) for the integration of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at a higher education institution in South Africa. Archer’s (1995) morphogenetic approach enabled an investigation of the interface between the conditions encountered by the academics (at macro, meso and micro levels), in order to theorise about the material, ideational and agential conditions that obtained and which in turn influenced the decision to participate or not participate in the APD programmes. This longitudinal study from 2012 until 2016 traced the APD related changes following the decision to promote the implementation of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions as an institutional imperative. The theoretical framework allowed for an examination of the interpretation of the conditions experienced by academics, either as compatible or contradictory to their individual or collective concerns. It further provided an insight into their evaluation of the legitimacy and value of the APD programmes. The study examined the impact of the provision of resources for APD on the nature of the use of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at the site of the case study, the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. The analysis of academic reactions to the changes instituted at both the meso (institutional) and micro (academic professional development) levels revealed that the changes produced conditions that resulted in limited morphogenesis. In particular, it seems that the disruption brought about by the introduction of the technology imperative was accompanied by conditions resulting in further diversification of academic capacities at the institution. This study advances concrete propositions about the conditions that influenced the APD related responses of the academics to the institutionalisation of e-Learning. The research adds to knowledge through insights into the process theory approach to causation, which recognises that structures, mechanisms and events produce unique effects and that the same mechanisms at times produce different events. This study argues that understanding what underlies a certain course of events may enable informed interventions to create better correspondences between APD and the introduction of digital technologies in higher education. Further, this study has generated insights into the importance of taking into consideration the discipline-related knowledge structures in the design and provision of academic development programmes. It is proposed that the incorporation of organising principles of knowledge practices within the academic professional development programme design would earn value and legitimacy for the programme, and promote participation by academics in digital technology-related academic professional development. In summary, the research contributes to an understanding of why it has been that, even with many first order barriers – such as digital access and infrastructural limitations – reduced, the uptake of digital technologies and participation in related academic professional development programmes by academics in higher education has yet to initiate a move beyond doing what is familiar in a digitally-mediated learning environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A sociological analysis of Rhodes University Students previously diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and prescribed psychostimulant medications
- Authors: Brasher, Chelsea Marilyn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) , Mental illness -- Public opinion , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Treatment , Symbolic interactionism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7610 , vital:21278
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, bringing into account the labelling theory, the stigmas attached upon mental health issues and the medicalization approach, this study sought to document and analyze the viewpoints that previously diagnosed Rhodes University students hold towards the ADHD label and the subsequent usage of psychostimulant medications. Seven respondents were involved in an in-depth interviewing process. Out of the seven respondents chosen, five of the respondents were diagnosed in their primary school years, whereas the other two respondents were diagnosed in their late teenage years or early adult years. These respondents were included to enlighten and support the narrative of the five respondents diagnosed in their youth. The findings varied, with some of the respondents feeling negatively affected by having the ADHD label attached to them, and others, positively affected by it. The findings were also diverse in terms of how the respondents experienced stimulant usage, with some believing that the benefits of usage outweigh the costs, and others, the opposite. At a general level, it was discovered that the respondents were not affected by the ADHD label in terms of their interactions with others in primary school. It was only as they got older did some become fearful of the stigma attached to the ADHD label, and that of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Brasher, Chelsea Marilyn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) , Mental illness -- Public opinion , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Treatment , Symbolic interactionism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7610 , vital:21278
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, bringing into account the labelling theory, the stigmas attached upon mental health issues and the medicalization approach, this study sought to document and analyze the viewpoints that previously diagnosed Rhodes University students hold towards the ADHD label and the subsequent usage of psychostimulant medications. Seven respondents were involved in an in-depth interviewing process. Out of the seven respondents chosen, five of the respondents were diagnosed in their primary school years, whereas the other two respondents were diagnosed in their late teenage years or early adult years. These respondents were included to enlighten and support the narrative of the five respondents diagnosed in their youth. The findings varied, with some of the respondents feeling negatively affected by having the ADHD label attached to them, and others, positively affected by it. The findings were also diverse in terms of how the respondents experienced stimulant usage, with some believing that the benefits of usage outweigh the costs, and others, the opposite. At a general level, it was discovered that the respondents were not affected by the ADHD label in terms of their interactions with others in primary school. It was only as they got older did some become fearful of the stigma attached to the ADHD label, and that of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A sociological analysis of the lives and livelihoods of child support grant caregivers in Queenstown, South Africa
- Authors: Ntantiso, Ziyanda
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7925 , vital:21325
- Description: The post-apartheid state in South Africa has initiated and implemented a large-scale social assistance programme in the form of social grants, including the child support grant. The grant system is meant to provide recipients, who comprise mainly people from poor black households, with the capacity to reduce levels of poverty in their households. The grant with the largest number of recipients is the child support grant, and it is given to the caregiver of a child eligible to receive the grant. Though the value of the monthly grant is minimal, the prevailing literature suggests that it does contribute in some way to enhancing the welfare of the recipients. This thesis focuses on child support grant recipients in the town of Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, and particularly those recipients for whom the grant is the crucial source of income. The main objective of the thesis is to understand and analyse the lives and livelihoods of child support grant recipients (all women) in Queenstown, South Africa. In this regard, the vast majority of caregivers of grant children are women and they often rely exclusively on the grant in taking care of themselves and the children. The thesis does not seek to determine any direct causal relationship between the child grant and poverty reduction, as much of the existing literature seeks to do. It focuses instead on the lives of the grant recipients, including the many challenges they face, as well as how they use the grant to pursue livelihoods in a manner which may at least inhibit the prospects of entering into deeper levels of poverty. The thesis demonstrates that, despite their deprived conditions of material existence, the female caregivers in Queenstown display significant agency in caring for their grant children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntantiso, Ziyanda
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7925 , vital:21325
- Description: The post-apartheid state in South Africa has initiated and implemented a large-scale social assistance programme in the form of social grants, including the child support grant. The grant system is meant to provide recipients, who comprise mainly people from poor black households, with the capacity to reduce levels of poverty in their households. The grant with the largest number of recipients is the child support grant, and it is given to the caregiver of a child eligible to receive the grant. Though the value of the monthly grant is minimal, the prevailing literature suggests that it does contribute in some way to enhancing the welfare of the recipients. This thesis focuses on child support grant recipients in the town of Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, and particularly those recipients for whom the grant is the crucial source of income. The main objective of the thesis is to understand and analyse the lives and livelihoods of child support grant recipients (all women) in Queenstown, South Africa. In this regard, the vast majority of caregivers of grant children are women and they often rely exclusively on the grant in taking care of themselves and the children. The thesis does not seek to determine any direct causal relationship between the child grant and poverty reduction, as much of the existing literature seeks to do. It focuses instead on the lives of the grant recipients, including the many challenges they face, as well as how they use the grant to pursue livelihoods in a manner which may at least inhibit the prospects of entering into deeper levels of poverty. The thesis demonstrates that, despite their deprived conditions of material existence, the female caregivers in Queenstown display significant agency in caring for their grant children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A spiritual intelligence model for operational humanitarian leadership development in conflict-affected areas
- Authors: Els, Deon André
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Development leadership Conflict management , Peace-building Spiritual life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15534 , vital:28267
- Description: The scale and cadence of crises that demand international humanitarian response are on the rise and pose increasingly hostile and complex challenges to operational humanitarian leaders. The international responses to humanitarian crises since 2011 recognised the need for successful humanitarian leadership development that emphasises the importance of ethical and effective leadership. The under-achievement of operational humanitarian leaders in conflict-affected areas has long been a chief concern amongst humanitarian organisations and leadership scholars. Several approaches to the development of operational humanitarian leaders have been presented as possible solutions such as establishing new financing mechanisms; improving technical abilities, academic knowledge, simulation training, conflict management skills; conflict prevention training; and enhancing the capacity for collaborative networks. Despite various efforts, it is reported that ineffective and incompetent leadership is still a major constraint on the success and effectiveness of operational humanitarian response in conflict-affected areas. This research effort attempted to contribute to improving operational humanitarian leadership by considering a “human or people-centred approach”. The primary objective was to identify the factors that influence the successful development of the spiritual intelligence (SQ) of humanitarian leaders working in conflict-affected areas. The primary objective was, therefore, to improve the abilities and skills of humanitarian leaders by validating and analysing factors that should contribute to the development of spiritually intelligent leaders and, subsequently, improve humanitarian leadership performance. There is growing consensus that values, ethical behaviour, self-awareness, motivation, compassion, humility, empathy, co-ordination and the empowerment of others have a significant impact on the effectiveness of operational humanitarian leadership which emphasises the need for human or people-centred approaches in developing humanitarian leaders. The striking similarities between abilities pertaining to effective, operational, humanitarian leadership and the capabilities of a spiritually intelligent individual suggested an opportunity to investigate the development of a spiritual intelligence model for humanitarian leaders. The frequency, duration and intensity of humanitarian crises between 2004 and 2016 further emphasised the urgent need for operational leaders to develop and apply abilities based on spiritual intelligence in the humanitarian sector. Some scholars argue that the development of spiritually intelligent leaders should play an instrumental role in successfully responding to global crises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Els, Deon André
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Development leadership Conflict management , Peace-building Spiritual life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15534 , vital:28267
- Description: The scale and cadence of crises that demand international humanitarian response are on the rise and pose increasingly hostile and complex challenges to operational humanitarian leaders. The international responses to humanitarian crises since 2011 recognised the need for successful humanitarian leadership development that emphasises the importance of ethical and effective leadership. The under-achievement of operational humanitarian leaders in conflict-affected areas has long been a chief concern amongst humanitarian organisations and leadership scholars. Several approaches to the development of operational humanitarian leaders have been presented as possible solutions such as establishing new financing mechanisms; improving technical abilities, academic knowledge, simulation training, conflict management skills; conflict prevention training; and enhancing the capacity for collaborative networks. Despite various efforts, it is reported that ineffective and incompetent leadership is still a major constraint on the success and effectiveness of operational humanitarian response in conflict-affected areas. This research effort attempted to contribute to improving operational humanitarian leadership by considering a “human or people-centred approach”. The primary objective was to identify the factors that influence the successful development of the spiritual intelligence (SQ) of humanitarian leaders working in conflict-affected areas. The primary objective was, therefore, to improve the abilities and skills of humanitarian leaders by validating and analysing factors that should contribute to the development of spiritually intelligent leaders and, subsequently, improve humanitarian leadership performance. There is growing consensus that values, ethical behaviour, self-awareness, motivation, compassion, humility, empathy, co-ordination and the empowerment of others have a significant impact on the effectiveness of operational humanitarian leadership which emphasises the need for human or people-centred approaches in developing humanitarian leaders. The striking similarities between abilities pertaining to effective, operational, humanitarian leadership and the capabilities of a spiritually intelligent individual suggested an opportunity to investigate the development of a spiritual intelligence model for humanitarian leaders. The frequency, duration and intensity of humanitarian crises between 2004 and 2016 further emphasised the urgent need for operational leaders to develop and apply abilities based on spiritual intelligence in the humanitarian sector. Some scholars argue that the development of spiritually intelligent leaders should play an instrumental role in successfully responding to global crises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A strategic framework for managing and implementation of the intergovernmental relations policy in selected Eastern Cape municipalities
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
A stratigraphic, petrographic and geochemical study of the gamagara formation at the maremane dome, Northern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Cousins, David Patrick
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4679 , vital:20711
- Description: Between 80 and 90 percent of the potential iron ore reserves in the Griqualand West basin in the Northern Cape province of South Africa is situated in the Asbesheuwels Iron-formation immediately below an unconformity that separates it from the Gamagara Formation of the Olifantshoek Supergroup. This extensive regional unconformity marks a lengthy period of non-deposition and erosion which preceded the deposition of the Gamagara Formation. Due to the nature of the intimate relationship between the shales and iron ore body, specifically on the Maremane dome, new insights into the Gamagara Formation were required. The thesis provides a renewed stratigraphic, petrographic and geochemical study on the Gamagara Formation and relates it to previous studies done on the lateral correlative Mapedi Formation, some 70 km north of the Maremane dome. The use of 10 newly available drill-cores selected from across the Maremane Dome allows for regional correlations to be made in a study which employs petrographic/mineralogical investigations using transmitted/reflected light microscopy, XRD and EPMA, complimented by traditional whole-rock geochemical analysis of majors, traces, rare earth elements and Nd isotopes. At the base of the Gamagara lie conglomerates representing an alluvial fan deposit, overlying this, shale and quartzite successions represent progradational delta lobes. The deltas are interpreted to be tide- dominated as indicated by a combination of features including: microbial mat growth, intertidal deposition in the delta top, sand bars and flaser laminations in the upward coarsening quartzite units of the delta front. Transgression is indicated by periodic transgressive lag deposits. A variety of sedimentary structures and textural features are described that can be interpreted as the results of microbial mat colonization on the sediment surface. Although in none of the described features can it irrefutably be proven that they are microbial mat deposits, the observed features are consistent with such an interpretation and should be considered indicators of possible microbial mat presence in the Gamagara Formation. Hydrothermal modifications are identified in various units of the Gamagara Formation and seem to occur as separate events. Basal white shales show mobility of Al and slight HFSE enrichments, while overlying red shales record HFSE, K and Fe enrichments. K-metasomatism has been known to occur in the underlying paleoweathering profile of the Transvaal Supergroup (Ongeluk lavas) a unit which is interpreted as the most likely provenance for the mid-to-upper shale lithofacies of the Gamagara Formation. Highly alkaline F-bearing brines had the ability to mobilize titania and fluorapatite, reset Nd isotope systematics and ultimately enriched HFSE concentrations in the red shales of the Gamagara Formation. As the same enrichment is evident in the Mapedi Formation, the event possibly represents unconformity related fluid flow on a regional scale (~140 km). Nd-isotopes record an isotopic disturbance concurrent with the HFSE enrichment and Tdm model ages suggest disruption (and enrichment) occurred between 1.73 and 1.86 Ga. Following this, Fe-addition occurred by epigenetic mechanisms similar to those of MVT-type deposits. Although gaps in the current understanding of the modifications of the Gamagara Formation exist, such events may have far reaching implications for the underlying iron ore bodies and the possibility arises that the genesis and/or epigenetic modification of the ore bodies of the Transvaal Supergroup may be casually linked to the same fluid-migration event/s.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Cousins, David Patrick
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4679 , vital:20711
- Description: Between 80 and 90 percent of the potential iron ore reserves in the Griqualand West basin in the Northern Cape province of South Africa is situated in the Asbesheuwels Iron-formation immediately below an unconformity that separates it from the Gamagara Formation of the Olifantshoek Supergroup. This extensive regional unconformity marks a lengthy period of non-deposition and erosion which preceded the deposition of the Gamagara Formation. Due to the nature of the intimate relationship between the shales and iron ore body, specifically on the Maremane dome, new insights into the Gamagara Formation were required. The thesis provides a renewed stratigraphic, petrographic and geochemical study on the Gamagara Formation and relates it to previous studies done on the lateral correlative Mapedi Formation, some 70 km north of the Maremane dome. The use of 10 newly available drill-cores selected from across the Maremane Dome allows for regional correlations to be made in a study which employs petrographic/mineralogical investigations using transmitted/reflected light microscopy, XRD and EPMA, complimented by traditional whole-rock geochemical analysis of majors, traces, rare earth elements and Nd isotopes. At the base of the Gamagara lie conglomerates representing an alluvial fan deposit, overlying this, shale and quartzite successions represent progradational delta lobes. The deltas are interpreted to be tide- dominated as indicated by a combination of features including: microbial mat growth, intertidal deposition in the delta top, sand bars and flaser laminations in the upward coarsening quartzite units of the delta front. Transgression is indicated by periodic transgressive lag deposits. A variety of sedimentary structures and textural features are described that can be interpreted as the results of microbial mat colonization on the sediment surface. Although in none of the described features can it irrefutably be proven that they are microbial mat deposits, the observed features are consistent with such an interpretation and should be considered indicators of possible microbial mat presence in the Gamagara Formation. Hydrothermal modifications are identified in various units of the Gamagara Formation and seem to occur as separate events. Basal white shales show mobility of Al and slight HFSE enrichments, while overlying red shales record HFSE, K and Fe enrichments. K-metasomatism has been known to occur in the underlying paleoweathering profile of the Transvaal Supergroup (Ongeluk lavas) a unit which is interpreted as the most likely provenance for the mid-to-upper shale lithofacies of the Gamagara Formation. Highly alkaline F-bearing brines had the ability to mobilize titania and fluorapatite, reset Nd isotope systematics and ultimately enriched HFSE concentrations in the red shales of the Gamagara Formation. As the same enrichment is evident in the Mapedi Formation, the event possibly represents unconformity related fluid flow on a regional scale (~140 km). Nd-isotopes record an isotopic disturbance concurrent with the HFSE enrichment and Tdm model ages suggest disruption (and enrichment) occurred between 1.73 and 1.86 Ga. Following this, Fe-addition occurred by epigenetic mechanisms similar to those of MVT-type deposits. Although gaps in the current understanding of the modifications of the Gamagara Formation exist, such events may have far reaching implications for the underlying iron ore bodies and the possibility arises that the genesis and/or epigenetic modification of the ore bodies of the Transvaal Supergroup may be casually linked to the same fluid-migration event/s.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A study of mathematics teacher identity as shaped through participation in a mathematics teacher professional development programme
- Authors: Kangela, Nyameka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP) (Rhodes University) , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology -- Case studies , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7832 , vital:21305
- Description: There is an abundance of evidence suggesting that all is not well in mathematics education in South Africa. It is also common cause that the role of mathematics teachers is central to finding sustainable solutions to what is commonly referred to as a mathematics crisis. The purpose of this study is to explore the process of change in selected mathematics teachers’ identities as they participated in a mathematics teacher Professional Development Programme (PDP) at Rhodes University. The core of the PDP was a teacher enrichment programme called the Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP), under the aegis of the First Rand Foundation (FRF) Mathematics Education Chair at Rhodes University. MTEP foregrounded and emphasized the teaching of mathematics for conceptual understanding. The research approach was qualitative, and it used elements of the methods associated with educational ethnography. The data was collected from five teachers from five different schools that participated in the FRF Maths Chair project. I used Wenger’s (1998) three modes of belonging to analyse the identities of the five participants. This was achieved through analysing the teachers’ practice with a particular focus on teaching for conceptual understanding. I used Sfard & Prusak’s (2005) framework to analyse the participants’ journey from an actual to a designated identity through their participation in MTEP. The participants’ changing sense of belonging to MTEP was a key element in transforming their practice to teaching for conceptual understanding. I assumed the role of a participant observer during MTEP sessions, and of an outside observer as a researcher.The study found that the selected teachers’ participation in the MTEP community of practice strongly encouraged them to accumulate shared histories of learning and teaching. The study found that as participating teachers adopted and grew into their designated identity they partially embraced and implemented a conceptual teaching approach. The gap between their actual and their designated identity was partly closed as they sought to align their teaching with MTEP’s goal of conceptual teaching.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kangela, Nyameka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP) (Rhodes University) , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology -- Case studies , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7832 , vital:21305
- Description: There is an abundance of evidence suggesting that all is not well in mathematics education in South Africa. It is also common cause that the role of mathematics teachers is central to finding sustainable solutions to what is commonly referred to as a mathematics crisis. The purpose of this study is to explore the process of change in selected mathematics teachers’ identities as they participated in a mathematics teacher Professional Development Programme (PDP) at Rhodes University. The core of the PDP was a teacher enrichment programme called the Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP), under the aegis of the First Rand Foundation (FRF) Mathematics Education Chair at Rhodes University. MTEP foregrounded and emphasized the teaching of mathematics for conceptual understanding. The research approach was qualitative, and it used elements of the methods associated with educational ethnography. The data was collected from five teachers from five different schools that participated in the FRF Maths Chair project. I used Wenger’s (1998) three modes of belonging to analyse the identities of the five participants. This was achieved through analysing the teachers’ practice with a particular focus on teaching for conceptual understanding. I used Sfard & Prusak’s (2005) framework to analyse the participants’ journey from an actual to a designated identity through their participation in MTEP. The participants’ changing sense of belonging to MTEP was a key element in transforming their practice to teaching for conceptual understanding. I assumed the role of a participant observer during MTEP sessions, and of an outside observer as a researcher.The study found that the selected teachers’ participation in the MTEP community of practice strongly encouraged them to accumulate shared histories of learning and teaching. The study found that as participating teachers adopted and grew into their designated identity they partially embraced and implemented a conceptual teaching approach. The gap between their actual and their designated identity was partly closed as they sought to align their teaching with MTEP’s goal of conceptual teaching.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A study of procurement and administration in the Department of Health in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Xatula, Meyisi Sigqibo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Management -- Procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13458 , vital:27205
- Description: The study investigated issues concerning procurement and administration in the Department of Health (DoH) in the Eastern Cape and has further investigated the role of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Act 1 of 1999 in the department. That included issues associated with the administration and procurement in relation to service providers from the private sector. The DoH in the Eastern Cape Province delivers:“ … a quality health service to the people of the Eastern Cape Province promoting a better life for all and ensures accessible, comprehensive, and integrated services in the province, emphasising the primary health care approach, as well as utilising and developing all resources to enable present and future generations to enjoy good health and quality of life” (Department of Health [DoH], Eastern Cape, Departmental Annual Performance Plan, 2013:3). Various researchers have investigated the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999 and have identified gaps and made recommendations regarding the identified gaps. The study is based on the following reports from various authors: According to Pillay (2013), since 1994 every public sector department has lost approximately R385 billion to fraud, corruption and maladministration. Government employees have accepted kickbacks in exchange for rigging tenders, including focusing on high levels of corruption (Albert, 2011:1). The fraud and corruption in the Eastern Cape DoH, which involves nepotism, corruption and fraud amounting to a million rand in the audit report of 2013, have prompted calls by the opposition for interventions (PricewaterhouseCoopers [PWC], 2013:9). Departmental Annual Performance Plan for 2013/2014. Impact of accountability and ethics on public service delivery: a South African perspective which involves accountability stating that all government departments have to be efficient to ensure value for public funds including the qualitative and value-laden expectations of the society (Raga & Taylor, 2008:1). EC (2010:9), Audit Report: Health Department, Eastern Cape. King III Report (2009) – Corporate Governance. The study has built on previous research conducted by other researchers who have conducted research on the issue of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act 1 (PFM Act 1) of 1999, and had identify further gaps not previously identified by other researchers or in the audits. In addition, this study aims to also identify shortcomings that have been described in the recent audits 2013/2014 of the DoH, Eastern Cape. Together with the new gaps identified in the PFM Act 1 of 1999, the researcher aims to make a number of recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999. The PFM Act 1 of 1999 was promulgated by the South African government in 1999. The Act promotes the objective of good financial management in order to maximise service delivery through effective and efficient use of available limited resources as well as credible interaction with private sector service providers. A key objective of this Act is to put in place a more effective financial accountability system over public entities. The objectives of the Act are to: Modernise the system of financial management, Enable public sector managers to manage, while at the same time being accountable, Ensure timely provision of quality information, To eliminate waste and corruption in the use of public assets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Xatula, Meyisi Sigqibo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Management -- Procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13458 , vital:27205
- Description: The study investigated issues concerning procurement and administration in the Department of Health (DoH) in the Eastern Cape and has further investigated the role of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Act 1 of 1999 in the department. That included issues associated with the administration and procurement in relation to service providers from the private sector. The DoH in the Eastern Cape Province delivers:“ … a quality health service to the people of the Eastern Cape Province promoting a better life for all and ensures accessible, comprehensive, and integrated services in the province, emphasising the primary health care approach, as well as utilising and developing all resources to enable present and future generations to enjoy good health and quality of life” (Department of Health [DoH], Eastern Cape, Departmental Annual Performance Plan, 2013:3). Various researchers have investigated the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999 and have identified gaps and made recommendations regarding the identified gaps. The study is based on the following reports from various authors: According to Pillay (2013), since 1994 every public sector department has lost approximately R385 billion to fraud, corruption and maladministration. Government employees have accepted kickbacks in exchange for rigging tenders, including focusing on high levels of corruption (Albert, 2011:1). The fraud and corruption in the Eastern Cape DoH, which involves nepotism, corruption and fraud amounting to a million rand in the audit report of 2013, have prompted calls by the opposition for interventions (PricewaterhouseCoopers [PWC], 2013:9). Departmental Annual Performance Plan for 2013/2014. Impact of accountability and ethics on public service delivery: a South African perspective which involves accountability stating that all government departments have to be efficient to ensure value for public funds including the qualitative and value-laden expectations of the society (Raga & Taylor, 2008:1). EC (2010:9), Audit Report: Health Department, Eastern Cape. King III Report (2009) – Corporate Governance. The study has built on previous research conducted by other researchers who have conducted research on the issue of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act 1 (PFM Act 1) of 1999, and had identify further gaps not previously identified by other researchers or in the audits. In addition, this study aims to also identify shortcomings that have been described in the recent audits 2013/2014 of the DoH, Eastern Cape. Together with the new gaps identified in the PFM Act 1 of 1999, the researcher aims to make a number of recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999. The PFM Act 1 of 1999 was promulgated by the South African government in 1999. The Act promotes the objective of good financial management in order to maximise service delivery through effective and efficient use of available limited resources as well as credible interaction with private sector service providers. A key objective of this Act is to put in place a more effective financial accountability system over public entities. The objectives of the Act are to: Modernise the system of financial management, Enable public sector managers to manage, while at the same time being accountable, Ensure timely provision of quality information, To eliminate waste and corruption in the use of public assets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A study of the South African national anthem as a tool for division or unification
- Authors: Gallant, Bernette Denolia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cultural fusion -- South Africa Multiculturalism -- South Africa , Politics and culture -- South Africa National songs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15138 , vital:28143
- Description: South Africa is a nation that was born from a struggle that can be said to have turned racial divisions and discrimination into a diversity of heritages. Thus, contemporary South Africa has become a country recreated in such a way that its people are able to embrace diversity freely. This research study aimed to provide insights into South Africa’s diversity in culture and linguistics that were moulded into a single song, the South African National Anthem. The research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Staff and Students) responses to the representation of the South African National Anthem based on two specific performances. The research study aimed to determine how the two online videos affected the perceptions of NMMU Staff and Students of the South African National Anthem and South Africa as a brand. The research study aimed to determine how the two performances of the South African National Anthem under study were received by Staff and Students at NMMU. The study also aimed to highlight the similarities and differences in the sample’s responses, based on this reception. The selected YouTube videos under study are: SA anthem destroyed URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beg0-kMN3fM Ard Matthews ruins the SA national anthem URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu6IG0Wx19w. An electronic questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions was used to draw a conclusion regarding the selected sample’s perceptions of the South African National Anthem. Following the questionnaire results, a rhetoric analysis of the sample’s questionnaire responses was conducted. This text analysis and interpretation was conducted to gain insight into themes that were labelled based on the questionnaire responses, thus affecting perceptions of the sample and determining whether the South African National Anthem was perceived as a tool for division or unification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gallant, Bernette Denolia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cultural fusion -- South Africa Multiculturalism -- South Africa , Politics and culture -- South Africa National songs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15138 , vital:28143
- Description: South Africa is a nation that was born from a struggle that can be said to have turned racial divisions and discrimination into a diversity of heritages. Thus, contemporary South Africa has become a country recreated in such a way that its people are able to embrace diversity freely. This research study aimed to provide insights into South Africa’s diversity in culture and linguistics that were moulded into a single song, the South African National Anthem. The research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Staff and Students) responses to the representation of the South African National Anthem based on two specific performances. The research study aimed to determine how the two online videos affected the perceptions of NMMU Staff and Students of the South African National Anthem and South Africa as a brand. The research study aimed to determine how the two performances of the South African National Anthem under study were received by Staff and Students at NMMU. The study also aimed to highlight the similarities and differences in the sample’s responses, based on this reception. The selected YouTube videos under study are: SA anthem destroyed URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beg0-kMN3fM Ard Matthews ruins the SA national anthem URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu6IG0Wx19w. An electronic questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions was used to draw a conclusion regarding the selected sample’s perceptions of the South African National Anthem. Following the questionnaire results, a rhetoric analysis of the sample’s questionnaire responses was conducted. This text analysis and interpretation was conducted to gain insight into themes that were labelled based on the questionnaire responses, thus affecting perceptions of the sample and determining whether the South African National Anthem was perceived as a tool for division or unification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A study of the southwestern Karoo basin in South Africa using magnetic and gravity data
- Authors: Nxantsiya, Zusakhe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14043 , vital:39800
- Description: The early efforts of Booth, Johnson, Rubidge, Catuneanu, de Wit, Chevallier, Stankiewicz, Weckmann and many other scientists in studying the Karoo Supergroup has led to comprehensive documentation of the geology on the main Karoo Basin with regards to understanding the age, sedimentology, sedimentary facies and depositional environments. In spite of these studies, the subsurface structure, variations in thickness of various formations in large parts of the basin, the location and orientation of subsurface dolerite intrusions, and the depth to magnetic and gravity sources remains poorly documented. A geological study with the aid of geophysical techniques, magnetic and gravity, was conducted in the southwestern part of the main Karoo Basin. The objectives of the study were to construct numerous models of the main basin that image the crust to a depth of 45 km, to determine thicknesses of various formations, to relate observed geophysical anomalies with geological bodies and lineaments, to estimate the depth of existing anomalous bodies, to determine densities and porosity of various formations, as well as to determine the mineralogy of various rocks in the Karoo Basin. In total, seventy one rock samples were collected in the main Karoo Basin for density and mineralogical studies. The density results showed that the Beaufort and Ecca Group rocks have the low mean density of 2.490 g/cm3 amongst the rocks while the dolerite intrusions have the highest mean density of 2.697 g/cm3. The porosities of various rocks determined from the measured rock densities revealed that the Ecca Group shales, particularly the Whitehill Formation has the highest porosity of 4.5percent, while the Collingham Formation has the least porosity of 1.4 percent amongst the Ecca Group shales. Mineralogical analysis of seventeen XRD samples and 26 thin sections indicate that quartz, kaolinite, and plagioclase occur as the major mineral in most sandstones and shales in the Karoo Basin, while the pyrophyllite, smectite, and talc occur as minor minerals. Other mineral constituents include, calcite, mica, and amphibole. The 2½ dimensional (2½ D) gravity modelling along seven selected profiles, across the Beattie Magnetic Anomaly (BMA), revealed that the Ecca Group sediments, a target for shale gas exploration in the Karoo, occurs within a depth range of 0 - 4000 m from the surface. The basin deepens to a depth of 4600 m in the southwestern region, near the front of the Cape Fold Belt. It was observed as well that the Karoo dolerite sills are connected at depths and are mostly concentrated at the centre, the deepest part of the basin with some having saucer shape - like structure. These observations correspond well with the borehole data from AB 1/65 and QU 1/65 presented in Linol and de Wit (2016). Thickness isochore maps that were extracted from the gravity models indicate that the Ecca Group, which is the main target for hydrocarbon exploration, thickens to the south away from the centre of the basin and reaches thicknesses of greater than 3680 m. The Beaufort Group proves to be the thickest succession in the Karoo Basin with an estimated thickness of up to 6046 m. Constructed geophysical maps with the geology overlain reveal that most magnetic anomalies are due to dolerite intrusions, while gravity lows are due to less dense shales of the Ecca Group. The depth slices of magnetic data indicate that near surface magnetic bodies occur within the depth of 42 m from the surface whereas deep seated ones occur as deep as 9488 m and possibly deeper. Gravity depth slices reveal signatures that are predominant at depth of 2403 m are of short wavelength and are mainly lineaments and circular structures. They ultimately disappear at depth of 7120 m. The depth slices further indicate that the intensity of both magnetic and gravity long wavelength signatures become stronger with increasing depths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nxantsiya, Zusakhe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14043 , vital:39800
- Description: The early efforts of Booth, Johnson, Rubidge, Catuneanu, de Wit, Chevallier, Stankiewicz, Weckmann and many other scientists in studying the Karoo Supergroup has led to comprehensive documentation of the geology on the main Karoo Basin with regards to understanding the age, sedimentology, sedimentary facies and depositional environments. In spite of these studies, the subsurface structure, variations in thickness of various formations in large parts of the basin, the location and orientation of subsurface dolerite intrusions, and the depth to magnetic and gravity sources remains poorly documented. A geological study with the aid of geophysical techniques, magnetic and gravity, was conducted in the southwestern part of the main Karoo Basin. The objectives of the study were to construct numerous models of the main basin that image the crust to a depth of 45 km, to determine thicknesses of various formations, to relate observed geophysical anomalies with geological bodies and lineaments, to estimate the depth of existing anomalous bodies, to determine densities and porosity of various formations, as well as to determine the mineralogy of various rocks in the Karoo Basin. In total, seventy one rock samples were collected in the main Karoo Basin for density and mineralogical studies. The density results showed that the Beaufort and Ecca Group rocks have the low mean density of 2.490 g/cm3 amongst the rocks while the dolerite intrusions have the highest mean density of 2.697 g/cm3. The porosities of various rocks determined from the measured rock densities revealed that the Ecca Group shales, particularly the Whitehill Formation has the highest porosity of 4.5percent, while the Collingham Formation has the least porosity of 1.4 percent amongst the Ecca Group shales. Mineralogical analysis of seventeen XRD samples and 26 thin sections indicate that quartz, kaolinite, and plagioclase occur as the major mineral in most sandstones and shales in the Karoo Basin, while the pyrophyllite, smectite, and talc occur as minor minerals. Other mineral constituents include, calcite, mica, and amphibole. The 2½ dimensional (2½ D) gravity modelling along seven selected profiles, across the Beattie Magnetic Anomaly (BMA), revealed that the Ecca Group sediments, a target for shale gas exploration in the Karoo, occurs within a depth range of 0 - 4000 m from the surface. The basin deepens to a depth of 4600 m in the southwestern region, near the front of the Cape Fold Belt. It was observed as well that the Karoo dolerite sills are connected at depths and are mostly concentrated at the centre, the deepest part of the basin with some having saucer shape - like structure. These observations correspond well with the borehole data from AB 1/65 and QU 1/65 presented in Linol and de Wit (2016). Thickness isochore maps that were extracted from the gravity models indicate that the Ecca Group, which is the main target for hydrocarbon exploration, thickens to the south away from the centre of the basin and reaches thicknesses of greater than 3680 m. The Beaufort Group proves to be the thickest succession in the Karoo Basin with an estimated thickness of up to 6046 m. Constructed geophysical maps with the geology overlain reveal that most magnetic anomalies are due to dolerite intrusions, while gravity lows are due to less dense shales of the Ecca Group. The depth slices of magnetic data indicate that near surface magnetic bodies occur within the depth of 42 m from the surface whereas deep seated ones occur as deep as 9488 m and possibly deeper. Gravity depth slices reveal signatures that are predominant at depth of 2403 m are of short wavelength and are mainly lineaments and circular structures. They ultimately disappear at depth of 7120 m. The depth slices further indicate that the intensity of both magnetic and gravity long wavelength signatures become stronger with increasing depths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A study of the southwestern Karoo basin in South Africa using magnetic and gravity data
- Authors: Nxantsiya, Zusakhe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Karoo Aquifers -- South Africa -- Karoo Hydrology -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4748 , vital:28509
- Description: The early efforts of Booth, Johnson, Rubidge, Catuneanu, de Wit, Chevallier, Stankiewicz, Weckmann and many other scientists in studying the Karoo Supergroup has led to comprehensive documentation of the geology on the main Karoo Basin with regards to understanding the age, sedimentology, sedimentary facies and depositional environments. In spite of these studies, the subsurface structure, variations in thickness of various formations in large parts of the basin, the location and orientation of subsurface dolerite intrusions, and the depth to magnetic and gravity sources remains poorly documented. A geological study with the aid of geophysical techniques, magnetic and gravity, was conducted in the southwestern part of the main Karoo Basin. The objectives of the study were to construct numerous models of the main basin that image the crust to a depth of 45 km, to determine thicknesses of various formations, to relate observed geophysical anomalies with geological bodies and lineaments, to estimate the depth of existing anomalous bodies, to determine densities and porosity of various formations, as well as to determine the mineralogy of various rocks in the Karoo Basin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nxantsiya, Zusakhe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Karoo Aquifers -- South Africa -- Karoo Hydrology -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4748 , vital:28509
- Description: The early efforts of Booth, Johnson, Rubidge, Catuneanu, de Wit, Chevallier, Stankiewicz, Weckmann and many other scientists in studying the Karoo Supergroup has led to comprehensive documentation of the geology on the main Karoo Basin with regards to understanding the age, sedimentology, sedimentary facies and depositional environments. In spite of these studies, the subsurface structure, variations in thickness of various formations in large parts of the basin, the location and orientation of subsurface dolerite intrusions, and the depth to magnetic and gravity sources remains poorly documented. A geological study with the aid of geophysical techniques, magnetic and gravity, was conducted in the southwestern part of the main Karoo Basin. The objectives of the study were to construct numerous models of the main basin that image the crust to a depth of 45 km, to determine thicknesses of various formations, to relate observed geophysical anomalies with geological bodies and lineaments, to estimate the depth of existing anomalous bodies, to determine densities and porosity of various formations, as well as to determine the mineralogy of various rocks in the Karoo Basin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A survey of South African crime fiction : critical analysis and publishing history
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Book , text
- Identifier: vital:26344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/53878 , https://www.isbs.com/products/9781869143558 , https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9456-8657
- Description: Is crime fiction the new 'political novel' in South Africa? Why did the apartheid censors disapprove of crime fiction more than any other genre? Crime fiction continues to be a burgeoning literary category in post-apartheid South Africa, with more new authors, titles and themes emerging every year. This book is the first comprehensive survey of South African crime fiction. It provides an overview of this phenomenally successful literary category, and places it within its wider social and historical context. The authors specialise in both literary studies and print culture, and this combination informs a critical analysis and publishing history of South African crime fiction from the nineteenth century to the present day. The book provides a literary lineage while considering different genres and sub-genres, as well as specific themes such as gender and eco-criticism. The inclusion of a detailed bibliography of crime fiction since the 1890s makes A Survey of South African Crime Fiction an indispensable teaching and study aid
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Book , text
- Identifier: vital:26344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/53878 , https://www.isbs.com/products/9781869143558 , https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9456-8657
- Description: Is crime fiction the new 'political novel' in South Africa? Why did the apartheid censors disapprove of crime fiction more than any other genre? Crime fiction continues to be a burgeoning literary category in post-apartheid South Africa, with more new authors, titles and themes emerging every year. This book is the first comprehensive survey of South African crime fiction. It provides an overview of this phenomenally successful literary category, and places it within its wider social and historical context. The authors specialise in both literary studies and print culture, and this combination informs a critical analysis and publishing history of South African crime fiction from the nineteenth century to the present day. The book provides a literary lineage while considering different genres and sub-genres, as well as specific themes such as gender and eco-criticism. The inclusion of a detailed bibliography of crime fiction since the 1890s makes A Survey of South African Crime Fiction an indispensable teaching and study aid
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
A survey of the professional identity of clinical psychologists in South Africa
- Authors: Deane, Tessa Anne
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Psychologists -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Psychology -- Practice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5140 , vital:20780
- Description: The mental health care needs of South Africa have shifted significantly in the postapartheid context of changing political and socioeconomic landscapes. However, the extent to which clinical psychologists’ professional identity has responded accordingly has been unclear. By establishing the practice patterns and values that should be central to the profession according to the literature, and ascertaining the extent to which these are reflected among professionals at this time, this study facilitates a re-evaluation of the professional identity of clinical psychologists in South Africa. To this end, an online survey method was used to collect data from a representative sample of 877 participants, i.e. 29,09% of the population of clinical psychologists in South Africa. Statistical analyses were implemented to address a number of key research questions concerning aspects which characterise professional identity, namely: demographic profile; work settings and roles (practices); and theoretical perspective, beliefs and attitudes (values). Findings suggest that, demographically, clinical psychologists do not mirror the clients they serve, and also that there is a large proportion of the population for whom psychological services remain inaccessible and/or inappropriate. Furthermore, the professional identity of clinical psychologists currently does not comprise practices and values which meet the mental health care needs of South Africa. A significant recommendation of the research is its endorsement of the National Health Insurance model given the promise of its role in ensuring psychology remains relevant. It is recommended that future studies expand on these findings qualitatively, and compare clinical psychology with other mental health care fields. Universities are also urged to relook at their training curricula and ensure that trainees are made of aware of issues of policy, and that areas of research and psychological assessment in complex environments are prioritized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Deane, Tessa Anne
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Psychologists -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Psychology -- Practice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5140 , vital:20780
- Description: The mental health care needs of South Africa have shifted significantly in the postapartheid context of changing political and socioeconomic landscapes. However, the extent to which clinical psychologists’ professional identity has responded accordingly has been unclear. By establishing the practice patterns and values that should be central to the profession according to the literature, and ascertaining the extent to which these are reflected among professionals at this time, this study facilitates a re-evaluation of the professional identity of clinical psychologists in South Africa. To this end, an online survey method was used to collect data from a representative sample of 877 participants, i.e. 29,09% of the population of clinical psychologists in South Africa. Statistical analyses were implemented to address a number of key research questions concerning aspects which characterise professional identity, namely: demographic profile; work settings and roles (practices); and theoretical perspective, beliefs and attitudes (values). Findings suggest that, demographically, clinical psychologists do not mirror the clients they serve, and also that there is a large proportion of the population for whom psychological services remain inaccessible and/or inappropriate. Furthermore, the professional identity of clinical psychologists currently does not comprise practices and values which meet the mental health care needs of South Africa. A significant recommendation of the research is its endorsement of the National Health Insurance model given the promise of its role in ensuring psychology remains relevant. It is recommended that future studies expand on these findings qualitatively, and compare clinical psychology with other mental health care fields. Universities are also urged to relook at their training curricula and ensure that trainees are made of aware of issues of policy, and that areas of research and psychological assessment in complex environments are prioritized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A sustainability assessment of the Inxuba Yethemba local municipality
- Authors: Van Lingen, Matthew
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7056 , vital:21213
- Description: The aim of this research was to assess the sustainability of the Inxuba Yethemba local municipality with the goal that policy-makers would use the assessment recommendations to improve their decision-making. The United Nations Indicators for Sustainable Development framework (3rd Edition) was chosen to carry out the assessment because of its indicator selection and methodology for distinguishing which indicators were relevant or irrelevant for the assessment (United Nations, 2007). If an indicator showed that the situation was improving, it was assumed to help with the overall sustainability of the area (Hedayati-Moghadam, Eskandar Seidayi and Nouri, 2014; and United Nations, 2007). The indicators for environmental sustainability showed that the area is on an environmentally sustainable path (Du Toit, 2017; United Nations, 2007). While the indicators for social sustainability showed that the living standards of the population (measured by poverty, housing, and access to electricity amongst others) had increased which is a good indication for social sustainability. The indicators for education and labour productivity showed the opposite (CHDM a, 2012; CHDM a, 2014; United Nations, 2007). The indicators for the economy showed that the economy was not growing which is not a good indication for economic sustainability (CHDM a, 2012; CHDM a, 2014; United Nations, 2007). The recommendation to policy-makers is that developing labour productivity through education and skills training is the most important area to improve, and compiling regular sustainability assessments will improve their decision making. Another recommendation is that, because 65% of the households rely on the social grant (CHDM b, 2014) this cannot be withdrawn in the short term. Furthermore, if inflation were to develop into hyperinflation, the value of the social grants would deteriorate (Market Insight South Africa, 2016). A recommendation to policy makers is that more data collection is needed in order to do proper sustainability assessments. Overall, the municipality cannot be classified as sustainable mainly on account of the poor education system, high levels of unemployed and unskilled labour, and the social, and economic dependence that the municipality has on government spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Van Lingen, Matthew
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7056 , vital:21213
- Description: The aim of this research was to assess the sustainability of the Inxuba Yethemba local municipality with the goal that policy-makers would use the assessment recommendations to improve their decision-making. The United Nations Indicators for Sustainable Development framework (3rd Edition) was chosen to carry out the assessment because of its indicator selection and methodology for distinguishing which indicators were relevant or irrelevant for the assessment (United Nations, 2007). If an indicator showed that the situation was improving, it was assumed to help with the overall sustainability of the area (Hedayati-Moghadam, Eskandar Seidayi and Nouri, 2014; and United Nations, 2007). The indicators for environmental sustainability showed that the area is on an environmentally sustainable path (Du Toit, 2017; United Nations, 2007). While the indicators for social sustainability showed that the living standards of the population (measured by poverty, housing, and access to electricity amongst others) had increased which is a good indication for social sustainability. The indicators for education and labour productivity showed the opposite (CHDM a, 2012; CHDM a, 2014; United Nations, 2007). The indicators for the economy showed that the economy was not growing which is not a good indication for economic sustainability (CHDM a, 2012; CHDM a, 2014; United Nations, 2007). The recommendation to policy-makers is that developing labour productivity through education and skills training is the most important area to improve, and compiling regular sustainability assessments will improve their decision making. Another recommendation is that, because 65% of the households rely on the social grant (CHDM b, 2014) this cannot be withdrawn in the short term. Furthermore, if inflation were to develop into hyperinflation, the value of the social grants would deteriorate (Market Insight South Africa, 2016). A recommendation to policy makers is that more data collection is needed in order to do proper sustainability assessments. Overall, the municipality cannot be classified as sustainable mainly on account of the poor education system, high levels of unemployed and unskilled labour, and the social, and economic dependence that the municipality has on government spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A sustainable franchise venture framework for new franchises in South Africa
- Authors: George, Karen Jean
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) -- South Africa New business enterprises -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47948 , vital:40455
- Description: This paper proposes a franchise framework to gain better insight into identifying sustainable future franchise business ventures in South Africa. Many studies have confirmed that worldwide franchises offer more sustainable business growth for entrepreneurs and a higher success rate for start-up businesses, yet the problem persists of franchise failures and there are inconclusive reasons for these failures. By developing a franchise framework, the study aimed to contribute to possible solutions of South Africa’s high unemployment, as well as its poor performance in terms of entrepreneurial activity and economic development. The study proposed methods for improving the chances of success with franchise selection for franchisees through developing a franchise framework with specific emphasis on the sustainability of the business. By applying the proposed framework, the prospective franchisee could apply this framework in determining whether a particular franchise would provide a sound investment. Design/Methodology/Approach – A literature study was followed up with a case study research approach. The context was singular, namely the franchise restaurant industry in South Africa. Semi-structured interview questionnaires and recorded interviews were undertaken with embedded multiple units of analyses based on feedback from franchise industry experts, franchisees and a franchisor who owns restaurant franchises. The case study research explored the factors that contributed to the successful franchising business model of selected Spur Corporation Ltd. restaurant franchises, located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Key success factors, which were necessary to maintain and establish a sustainable franchise that has competitive edge over its competitors, were explored in this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: George, Karen Jean
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) -- South Africa New business enterprises -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47948 , vital:40455
- Description: This paper proposes a franchise framework to gain better insight into identifying sustainable future franchise business ventures in South Africa. Many studies have confirmed that worldwide franchises offer more sustainable business growth for entrepreneurs and a higher success rate for start-up businesses, yet the problem persists of franchise failures and there are inconclusive reasons for these failures. By developing a franchise framework, the study aimed to contribute to possible solutions of South Africa’s high unemployment, as well as its poor performance in terms of entrepreneurial activity and economic development. The study proposed methods for improving the chances of success with franchise selection for franchisees through developing a franchise framework with specific emphasis on the sustainability of the business. By applying the proposed framework, the prospective franchisee could apply this framework in determining whether a particular franchise would provide a sound investment. Design/Methodology/Approach – A literature study was followed up with a case study research approach. The context was singular, namely the franchise restaurant industry in South Africa. Semi-structured interview questionnaires and recorded interviews were undertaken with embedded multiple units of analyses based on feedback from franchise industry experts, franchisees and a franchisor who owns restaurant franchises. The case study research explored the factors that contributed to the successful franchising business model of selected Spur Corporation Ltd. restaurant franchises, located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Key success factors, which were necessary to maintain and establish a sustainable franchise that has competitive edge over its competitors, were explored in this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A symmoriiform chondrichthyan braincase and the origin of chimaeroid fishes
- Coates, Michael I, Gess, Robert W, Finarelli, John A, Surname, Name - one for each creator, Criswell, Katharine E, Tietjen, Kristen
- Authors: Coates, Michael I , Gess, Robert W , Finarelli, John A , Surname, Name - one for each creator , Criswell, Katharine E , Tietjen, Kristen
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72246 , vital:30021 , https://doi.org/10.1038/nature20806
- Description: Chimaeroid fishes (Holocephali) are one of the four principal divisions of modern gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates). Despite only 47 described living species1, chimaeroids are the focus of resurgent interest as potential archives of genomic data2 and for the unique perspective they provide on chondrichthyan and gnathostome ancestral conditions. Chimaeroids are also noteworthy for their highly derived body plan1,3,4. However, like other living groups with distinctive anatomies5, fossils have been of limited use in unravelling their evolutionary origin, as the earliest recognized examples already exhibit many of the specializations present in modern forms6,7. Here we report the results of a computed tomography analysis of Dwykaselachus, an enigmatic chondrichthyan braincase from the ~280 million year old Karoo sediments of South Africa8. Externally, the braincase is that of a symmoriid shark9,10,11,12,13and is by far the most complete uncrushed example yet discovered. Internally, the morphology exhibits otherwise characteristically chimaeroid specializations, including the otic labyrinth arrangement and the brain space configuration relative to exceptionally large orbits. These results have important implications for our view of modern chondrichthyan origins, add robust structure to the phylogeny of early crown group gnathostomes, reveal preconditions that suggest an initial morpho-functional basis for the derived chimaeroid cranium, and shed new light on the chondrichthyan response to the extinction at the end of the Devonian period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Coates, Michael I , Gess, Robert W , Finarelli, John A , Surname, Name - one for each creator , Criswell, Katharine E , Tietjen, Kristen
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72246 , vital:30021 , https://doi.org/10.1038/nature20806
- Description: Chimaeroid fishes (Holocephali) are one of the four principal divisions of modern gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates). Despite only 47 described living species1, chimaeroids are the focus of resurgent interest as potential archives of genomic data2 and for the unique perspective they provide on chondrichthyan and gnathostome ancestral conditions. Chimaeroids are also noteworthy for their highly derived body plan1,3,4. However, like other living groups with distinctive anatomies5, fossils have been of limited use in unravelling their evolutionary origin, as the earliest recognized examples already exhibit many of the specializations present in modern forms6,7. Here we report the results of a computed tomography analysis of Dwykaselachus, an enigmatic chondrichthyan braincase from the ~280 million year old Karoo sediments of South Africa8. Externally, the braincase is that of a symmoriid shark9,10,11,12,13and is by far the most complete uncrushed example yet discovered. Internally, the morphology exhibits otherwise characteristically chimaeroid specializations, including the otic labyrinth arrangement and the brain space configuration relative to exceptionally large orbits. These results have important implications for our view of modern chondrichthyan origins, add robust structure to the phylogeny of early crown group gnathostomes, reveal preconditions that suggest an initial morpho-functional basis for the derived chimaeroid cranium, and shed new light on the chondrichthyan response to the extinction at the end of the Devonian period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A systematic review and document analysis on the prevention of mother-to-child programmes to prevent vertical transmission of human immuno-deficiency virus
- Authors: Sobetwa, Nwabisa Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy , Maternal health services , HIV infections -- Children -- Transmission -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7957 , vital:31282
- Description: Background: The National Strategic Plan 2012-2016 is advocating for zero new infections due to vertical transmission. This goal has not yet been achieved. This study evaluated whether the prevention of mother-to-child vertical transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) programmes in South Africa are based on evidence. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature comparing PMTCT antiretroviral regimens published between the years 2000 to 2015 and to do a document analysis of the current implemented PMTCT programme to evaluate if it is based on best evidence. Rational: The rational of the systematic review and the document analysis were to assess whether the latest PMTCT policy was based on evidence and to critically analyse published articles that addressed aspects related to efficacy and efficiency of PMTCT programmes to reduce transmission of HIV from mothers to their infants. Methods: Overall 25 randomised controlled trials and primary studies that assessed efficacy of ARV regimens to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the HIV during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal periods were systematically reviewed. In 1997 the first trial began and the last one ended in 2012. Twelve guidelines referring to PMTCT were sampled and they were published by WHO and Department of Health South Africa from 2001 to 2015. The document analysis was only based on National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April, 2015. Findings: The systematic review illustrated that significantly fewer infants tested HIV-positive when exposed to a longer ARV regime although there was no significant difference once the infants reached six months of age. Different ARVs have a similar Preamble effect on maternal deaths; however, a double or triple combination of ARVs is superior to monotherapy to decrease infant deaths. Common maternal adverse reactions to ARVs include anaemia, bronchopneumonia, and maculopapular rash. Infant adverse events included septicaemia, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, fever and maculopapular rash. The document analysis has shown that the PMTCT policy is mainly based on evidence from randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews. Occasionally some statements are still based on lower categories of evidence such as non-experimental descriptive studies. Conclusion: The systematic review showed that double and triple ARV therapy is superior to monotherapy and that the longer the mother and her infant are exposed to ARV therapy the better the results are to prevent MTCT. Adverse events are always posing a challenge and as with any other medication, caregivers must be aware of potential adverse reactions. The National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April 2015 is based on evidence, but the policy itself does not include any reference to evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sobetwa, Nwabisa Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy , Maternal health services , HIV infections -- Children -- Transmission -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7957 , vital:31282
- Description: Background: The National Strategic Plan 2012-2016 is advocating for zero new infections due to vertical transmission. This goal has not yet been achieved. This study evaluated whether the prevention of mother-to-child vertical transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) programmes in South Africa are based on evidence. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature comparing PMTCT antiretroviral regimens published between the years 2000 to 2015 and to do a document analysis of the current implemented PMTCT programme to evaluate if it is based on best evidence. Rational: The rational of the systematic review and the document analysis were to assess whether the latest PMTCT policy was based on evidence and to critically analyse published articles that addressed aspects related to efficacy and efficiency of PMTCT programmes to reduce transmission of HIV from mothers to their infants. Methods: Overall 25 randomised controlled trials and primary studies that assessed efficacy of ARV regimens to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the HIV during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal periods were systematically reviewed. In 1997 the first trial began and the last one ended in 2012. Twelve guidelines referring to PMTCT were sampled and they were published by WHO and Department of Health South Africa from 2001 to 2015. The document analysis was only based on National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April, 2015. Findings: The systematic review illustrated that significantly fewer infants tested HIV-positive when exposed to a longer ARV regime although there was no significant difference once the infants reached six months of age. Different ARVs have a similar Preamble effect on maternal deaths; however, a double or triple combination of ARVs is superior to monotherapy to decrease infant deaths. Common maternal adverse reactions to ARVs include anaemia, bronchopneumonia, and maculopapular rash. Infant adverse events included septicaemia, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, fever and maculopapular rash. The document analysis has shown that the PMTCT policy is mainly based on evidence from randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews. Occasionally some statements are still based on lower categories of evidence such as non-experimental descriptive studies. Conclusion: The systematic review showed that double and triple ARV therapy is superior to monotherapy and that the longer the mother and her infant are exposed to ARV therapy the better the results are to prevent MTCT. Adverse events are always posing a challenge and as with any other medication, caregivers must be aware of potential adverse reactions. The National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April 2015 is based on evidence, but the policy itself does not include any reference to evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A systematic review of online child sexual abuse: victim risk and offender profile and methodologies
- Authors: Sleeman, Ananda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse , Child pornography , Sexually abused children , Online sexual predators
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10761 , vital:26821
- Description: The purpose of this treatise was to synthesize the current research, nationally and internationally, both qualitative and quantitative, concerning online child sexual abuse. The study focused on crimes of a sexual nature perpetrated against children, with or without consent, in an online environment. The aim was to clearly articulate the characteristics of victims, including both their vulnerabilities and their protective factors and to provide offender profiles, including their methodologies. Method: A systematic search for peer reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2006 was conducted. The final sample included 73 articles, which were arranged in order of publication, and the top and bottom interquartile range was selected for review and coding. Results: 36 articles were thematically coded in order to identify the most prominent themes in the articles. The result of this review was a typology of victims and offenders, as well as offender methodologies that reflects an aggregation of the most prominent research on the subject of online child sexual abuse. Conclusion: Much of the common knowledge concerning online child sexual offenders and their victims is incorrect. The typologies identified in this review show a much more diverse picture of both offenders and victims than is held in popular knowledge. This research has identified the damage that misinformation can do, and has highlighted the need for accurate, empirically sound information to be made available to parents, teachers, health care professionals and youth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A systematic review of online child sexual abuse: victim risk and offender profile and methodologies
- Authors: Sleeman, Ananda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse , Child pornography , Sexually abused children , Online sexual predators
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10761 , vital:26821
- Description: The purpose of this treatise was to synthesize the current research, nationally and internationally, both qualitative and quantitative, concerning online child sexual abuse. The study focused on crimes of a sexual nature perpetrated against children, with or without consent, in an online environment. The aim was to clearly articulate the characteristics of victims, including both their vulnerabilities and their protective factors and to provide offender profiles, including their methodologies. Method: A systematic search for peer reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2006 was conducted. The final sample included 73 articles, which were arranged in order of publication, and the top and bottom interquartile range was selected for review and coding. Results: 36 articles were thematically coded in order to identify the most prominent themes in the articles. The result of this review was a typology of victims and offenders, as well as offender methodologies that reflects an aggregation of the most prominent research on the subject of online child sexual abuse. Conclusion: Much of the common knowledge concerning online child sexual offenders and their victims is incorrect. The typologies identified in this review show a much more diverse picture of both offenders and victims than is held in popular knowledge. This research has identified the damage that misinformation can do, and has highlighted the need for accurate, empirically sound information to be made available to parents, teachers, health care professionals and youth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A systems thinking approach to e-government strategy formulation for water service delivery in South African local municipalities
- Authors: Osah, Umeoniso Joshua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Internet in public administration South Africa , Electronic government information South Africa , Communication in public administration South Africa , Municipal services South Africa , Municipal services Information technology , System theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64471 , vital:28547 , DOI 10.21504/10962/64471
- Description: E-Government deployments by stakeholders within the South African water service sector, provide certain benefits for the sector. While deemed beneficial and of considerable value, e-Government deployments and implementations in the water sector of local governments of South Africa have not always been successful. One important reason for e-Government failures, among several others, is the lack of coherent strategies, informed by key representing stakeholder views, to guide implementation and deployment of e-Government tools. Without strategies, it is highly likely that ICT integration will be conducted haphazardly. As a point of note, more than the deliverable (strategy document) that represents the output of the strategy development process, it serves more purpose to understand the process that results in the strategy. Importantly, understanding the process helps to account for the formed relationships between the various stakeholders that need to buy into the strategy. The research study develops an e-Government strategy formulation framework based on a systems thinking approach, intended to support the strategy formulation process of e-Government strategies – to underpin the effective integration, deployment and sustained use of ICT solutions for water service delivery at the local government level. A systems thinking approach is considered due to its emphasis on the strategy being informed by a holistic assessment. Where there is some knowledge about the processes by which a strategy is formulated – over time ideas may be derived on the types of processes that may produce efficient e-Government strategies. The research is conducted using the Design Science research paradigm. The Design Science paradigm is comprised of two processes – build and evaluate (Hevner et al., 2004). The build process, as related to this research concentrates on the progression through which the theoretical e-Government strategy formulation framework is derived. Weick’s (1989) theorizing approach is ascribed, supporting the design of the theoretical framework. In applying Weick’s theorizing approach, firstly, the lack of knowledge on how e-Government strategies should be formulated in South African local municipalities – is explicated in an intelligible manner. Once the problem is properly articulated, a trial and error selection process is undertaken of existing approaches on strategy formulation – thought to possess the potential to contribute to the development of an e-Government strategy formulation framework, suited to local governments in South Africa. With good reason, 10 (ten) strategy approaches are selected from, e-Government programmes in developed countries, Non-Governmental organizational strategy approaches, and business related strategy formulation approaches. Lastly, as all possible approaches that may contribute to the framework development process cannot be selected, criteria is specified to limit the number of possible selections. Furthermore, in deriving the framework, foundations for systematically dealing with unstructured problems, such as, strategy formulation are consulted. This foundation along with the research goals, informs the development of a template used to comparatively analyse the 10 selected approaches on strategy formulation. This analysis aids in revealing the components of an e-Government strategy formulation process. With the developed framework, the evaluation process of the design science research commences, seeking to determine the utility of the framework (suitability and shortcomings). The framework is applied to the procedural formulation of a strategy for a tentative e-Government project called MobiSAM, which aims to enhance citizen engagement with local government through the use of mobile phones. The strategy formulation application process in the project environment and local government reveals lessons that inform revisions to the framework. The e-Government strategy formulation framework, therefore represents a fundamental tool for e-Government strategy development in local municipalities, and may be customized to fit the requirements of varying local municipalities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Information Systems, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Osah, Umeoniso Joshua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Internet in public administration South Africa , Electronic government information South Africa , Communication in public administration South Africa , Municipal services South Africa , Municipal services Information technology , System theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/64471 , vital:28547 , DOI 10.21504/10962/64471
- Description: E-Government deployments by stakeholders within the South African water service sector, provide certain benefits for the sector. While deemed beneficial and of considerable value, e-Government deployments and implementations in the water sector of local governments of South Africa have not always been successful. One important reason for e-Government failures, among several others, is the lack of coherent strategies, informed by key representing stakeholder views, to guide implementation and deployment of e-Government tools. Without strategies, it is highly likely that ICT integration will be conducted haphazardly. As a point of note, more than the deliverable (strategy document) that represents the output of the strategy development process, it serves more purpose to understand the process that results in the strategy. Importantly, understanding the process helps to account for the formed relationships between the various stakeholders that need to buy into the strategy. The research study develops an e-Government strategy formulation framework based on a systems thinking approach, intended to support the strategy formulation process of e-Government strategies – to underpin the effective integration, deployment and sustained use of ICT solutions for water service delivery at the local government level. A systems thinking approach is considered due to its emphasis on the strategy being informed by a holistic assessment. Where there is some knowledge about the processes by which a strategy is formulated – over time ideas may be derived on the types of processes that may produce efficient e-Government strategies. The research is conducted using the Design Science research paradigm. The Design Science paradigm is comprised of two processes – build and evaluate (Hevner et al., 2004). The build process, as related to this research concentrates on the progression through which the theoretical e-Government strategy formulation framework is derived. Weick’s (1989) theorizing approach is ascribed, supporting the design of the theoretical framework. In applying Weick’s theorizing approach, firstly, the lack of knowledge on how e-Government strategies should be formulated in South African local municipalities – is explicated in an intelligible manner. Once the problem is properly articulated, a trial and error selection process is undertaken of existing approaches on strategy formulation – thought to possess the potential to contribute to the development of an e-Government strategy formulation framework, suited to local governments in South Africa. With good reason, 10 (ten) strategy approaches are selected from, e-Government programmes in developed countries, Non-Governmental organizational strategy approaches, and business related strategy formulation approaches. Lastly, as all possible approaches that may contribute to the framework development process cannot be selected, criteria is specified to limit the number of possible selections. Furthermore, in deriving the framework, foundations for systematically dealing with unstructured problems, such as, strategy formulation are consulted. This foundation along with the research goals, informs the development of a template used to comparatively analyse the 10 selected approaches on strategy formulation. This analysis aids in revealing the components of an e-Government strategy formulation process. With the developed framework, the evaluation process of the design science research commences, seeking to determine the utility of the framework (suitability and shortcomings). The framework is applied to the procedural formulation of a strategy for a tentative e-Government project called MobiSAM, which aims to enhance citizen engagement with local government through the use of mobile phones. The strategy formulation application process in the project environment and local government reveals lessons that inform revisions to the framework. The e-Government strategy formulation framework, therefore represents a fundamental tool for e-Government strategy development in local municipalities, and may be customized to fit the requirements of varying local municipalities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Information Systems, 2017
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017