The design of a skills training centre in Grahamstown, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Rieger, Clare Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Designs and plans Campus planning -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19113 , vital:28774
- Description: The objective of the first component, which outlines the research, is to start with a contextual exploration in order to analyse the nature of Grahamstown and in particular the Fingo Village. This was done to establish the background to the problem and identify the particular issues which impact the criteria established for the urban implementation strategy. As a result of the urban design strategies, certain issues were identified within a focused precinct and generated a relevant design response for a 21st century building. This response is then further supported by a brief investigation of current trends within a similar context. Furthermore the research component explores the defined design project with an emphasis placed on understanding the nature of the type, analysing relevant precedent studies and further conducting a technical investigation of the building type. In order to establish an appropriate response to the immediate context, the conclusions which are made from the issues and investigation will allow for good architectural approaches. Component two is concerned with the development of the design. Taking into account the established criteria, a brief for the design was formulated including the required functions to be accommodated in order to finally execute the design, up until technical resolution. The desired outcome of this treatise is the formulation of an urban spatial framework with an appropriate design that is born out of the particular characteristics of the area chosen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rieger, Clare Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Designs and plans Campus planning -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19113 , vital:28774
- Description: The objective of the first component, which outlines the research, is to start with a contextual exploration in order to analyse the nature of Grahamstown and in particular the Fingo Village. This was done to establish the background to the problem and identify the particular issues which impact the criteria established for the urban implementation strategy. As a result of the urban design strategies, certain issues were identified within a focused precinct and generated a relevant design response for a 21st century building. This response is then further supported by a brief investigation of current trends within a similar context. Furthermore the research component explores the defined design project with an emphasis placed on understanding the nature of the type, analysing relevant precedent studies and further conducting a technical investigation of the building type. In order to establish an appropriate response to the immediate context, the conclusions which are made from the issues and investigation will allow for good architectural approaches. Component two is concerned with the development of the design. Taking into account the established criteria, a brief for the design was formulated including the required functions to be accommodated in order to finally execute the design, up until technical resolution. The desired outcome of this treatise is the formulation of an urban spatial framework with an appropriate design that is born out of the particular characteristics of the area chosen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a student resource centre in central Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Jacobs, Lize-Mari
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Libraries -- Space utilization , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18908 , vital:28748
- Description: The city centre of Port Elizabeth houses a large percentage of the city’s student population. The primary tertiary institution, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, is decentralised from the city centre. Thus, many students sacrifice a lot of time and money travelling far distances between the campus and home every day. The treatise proposes a Student Resource Centre in Central Port Elizabeth as an appropriate building that will provide the students with appropriate learning spaces and access to resources in close proximity to home. The treatise seeks to understand the aspects that influence the design of learning spaces. Students and pedagogy are constantly changing within the current age of technology. Learning spaces should be designed to satisfy student needs and reinforce current pedagogy. The treatise also investigates the challenges and opportunities of an identified site located within a precinct that is inaccessible and in a state of urban decay that causes segregation within the city. The Student Resource Centre will act as a central gathering and learning space serving the many varied needs of the students within its constituency, while also positively contributing to the urban context of the city as a whole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jacobs, Lize-Mari
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Libraries -- Space utilization , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18908 , vital:28748
- Description: The city centre of Port Elizabeth houses a large percentage of the city’s student population. The primary tertiary institution, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, is decentralised from the city centre. Thus, many students sacrifice a lot of time and money travelling far distances between the campus and home every day. The treatise proposes a Student Resource Centre in Central Port Elizabeth as an appropriate building that will provide the students with appropriate learning spaces and access to resources in close proximity to home. The treatise seeks to understand the aspects that influence the design of learning spaces. Students and pedagogy are constantly changing within the current age of technology. Learning spaces should be designed to satisfy student needs and reinforce current pedagogy. The treatise also investigates the challenges and opportunities of an identified site located within a precinct that is inaccessible and in a state of urban decay that causes segregation within the city. The Student Resource Centre will act as a central gathering and learning space serving the many varied needs of the students within its constituency, while also positively contributing to the urban context of the city as a whole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a tannery near Bulawayo, Republic of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Sibanda, Sinqumo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Factories -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans Architecture, Industrial -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans , Tanneries -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18707 , vital:28709
- Description: The purpose of this research is to develop a design for a tannery using alternative tanning methods where natural chemicals would be used in the place of metal based acid. There are unprecedented levels of contamination in the natural water systems due to partially processed chemicals coming out of industries with tanneries producing a significant amount of untreated effluent. The aim of the research is to investigate the process of reclamation, rehabilitation and reuse of the animal hides as well as the reproduction of the inherent context, where a mutually beneficial interaction between the program and the context will be realized. This will involve a process of reclamation of the existing waste land, the remodeling of the existing dilapidated sewerage treatment infrastructure such that the existing structures and the waste treatment processes are adapted for the benefaction of the tannery. The design will explore the symbiotic nature and the contrasts that are inherent in factories as a type, with high volumes of waste and the envisaged mitigation mechanism this facility will have to the natural environment. Spatial concepts dealing with these programmatic contrasts, that is, containment and openness, heavy and light, interiority and exteriority, threshold and termination will be interrogated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sibanda, Sinqumo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Factories -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans Architecture, Industrial -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans , Tanneries -- Zimbabwe -- Designs and plans Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18707 , vital:28709
- Description: The purpose of this research is to develop a design for a tannery using alternative tanning methods where natural chemicals would be used in the place of metal based acid. There are unprecedented levels of contamination in the natural water systems due to partially processed chemicals coming out of industries with tanneries producing a significant amount of untreated effluent. The aim of the research is to investigate the process of reclamation, rehabilitation and reuse of the animal hides as well as the reproduction of the inherent context, where a mutually beneficial interaction between the program and the context will be realized. This will involve a process of reclamation of the existing waste land, the remodeling of the existing dilapidated sewerage treatment infrastructure such that the existing structures and the waste treatment processes are adapted for the benefaction of the tannery. The design will explore the symbiotic nature and the contrasts that are inherent in factories as a type, with high volumes of waste and the envisaged mitigation mechanism this facility will have to the natural environment. Spatial concepts dealing with these programmatic contrasts, that is, containment and openness, heavy and light, interiority and exteriority, threshold and termination will be interrogated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a water treatment and research facility for the shark river in Happy Valley, Port Elizabeth
- Van der Westhuizen, Leon Vercueil
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Leon Vercueil
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century Architecture -- Environmental aspects -- 21st century , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18740 , vital:28718
- Description: This treatise was born out of an ecological concern for the abandoned Boet Erasmus stadium in Happy Valley, Port Elizabeth. The derelict state of the stadium along with polluted urban waste water and contaminated water from the Shark River, has caused severe destruction to the unique ecosystems only found in this part of the metropole. The current environmental status of the stadium provides the foundations for investigations into an architectural intervention of a remedial nature to rehabilitate the valley and implement water remediation strategies to filter the polluted and contaminated water. The treatise further seeks to create environmental awareness of how important these ecosystems are in urban environments and what services they can provide for its citizens. The research conducted focused on the relationship between man and nature and how to successfully integrate the natural and built environments. This provided unique responses in developing an architectural and urban intervention that responded to the ecological issues of the derelict site and re-introduced nature into the city to enrich the natural environment to the advantage of both man and nature. Rhizofiltration has been employed as an water remediation strategy for the site, through using various aquatic plants such as water lilies to filter the contaminants and heavy metals in the water. The associated agricultural practices and water cleaning systems are managed by the architectural intervention. The project starts off as a series of wetland systems and a basic water lily farm which then develops into a water treatment and research facility, to harvest, process and research the flower by-products produced by the Rhizofiltration process. The water lilies have the ability to absorb the heavy metals and when saturated they are harvested and used as test subjects to extract and smelt the heavy metals to produce precious jewellery pieces. Through the process of biologically filtering the polluted and contaminated water, water lilies will thrive in the landscape and provide opportunity for cultivating indigenous plants to form part of the rehabilitation process of Happy Valley. As a result, the treatment process will provide natural public swimming areas to promote public awareness and participation. A site specific and an regenerative type of architecture will be investigated to facilitate the changing nature of the biological treatment processes and return the site to an environmentally sound state, which will contribute to the rehabilitation of Happy Valley.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Leon Vercueil
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century Architecture -- Environmental aspects -- 21st century , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18740 , vital:28718
- Description: This treatise was born out of an ecological concern for the abandoned Boet Erasmus stadium in Happy Valley, Port Elizabeth. The derelict state of the stadium along with polluted urban waste water and contaminated water from the Shark River, has caused severe destruction to the unique ecosystems only found in this part of the metropole. The current environmental status of the stadium provides the foundations for investigations into an architectural intervention of a remedial nature to rehabilitate the valley and implement water remediation strategies to filter the polluted and contaminated water. The treatise further seeks to create environmental awareness of how important these ecosystems are in urban environments and what services they can provide for its citizens. The research conducted focused on the relationship between man and nature and how to successfully integrate the natural and built environments. This provided unique responses in developing an architectural and urban intervention that responded to the ecological issues of the derelict site and re-introduced nature into the city to enrich the natural environment to the advantage of both man and nature. Rhizofiltration has been employed as an water remediation strategy for the site, through using various aquatic plants such as water lilies to filter the contaminants and heavy metals in the water. The associated agricultural practices and water cleaning systems are managed by the architectural intervention. The project starts off as a series of wetland systems and a basic water lily farm which then develops into a water treatment and research facility, to harvest, process and research the flower by-products produced by the Rhizofiltration process. The water lilies have the ability to absorb the heavy metals and when saturated they are harvested and used as test subjects to extract and smelt the heavy metals to produce precious jewellery pieces. Through the process of biologically filtering the polluted and contaminated water, water lilies will thrive in the landscape and provide opportunity for cultivating indigenous plants to form part of the rehabilitation process of Happy Valley. As a result, the treatment process will provide natural public swimming areas to promote public awareness and participation. A site specific and an regenerative type of architecture will be investigated to facilitate the changing nature of the biological treatment processes and return the site to an environmentally sound state, which will contribute to the rehabilitation of Happy Valley.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a yacht manufacturing facility for Robertson & Caine in the East London harbour
- Authors: Tobbell, Kay-leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Factories -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Industrial -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18729 , vital:28713
- Description: This treatise deals with the design of a new yacht manufacturing facility for Robertson and Caine in the East London harbour. It arose from issues with the degradation of the precinct and social and economic issues relating to this. This treatise investigates the issues and process involved in the design of a Yacht manufacturing Facility in the East London Harbour. The purpose of this treatise is to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical and theoretical nature of a Yacht Manufacturing Facility. This identifies a set of architectural issues to which an appropriate architectural design is proposed. Conclusions based on the research findings and analysis of a selected site will be drawn and translated to formulate a vision for the proposed yacht manufacturing facility.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Tobbell, Kay-leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Factories -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Industrial -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18729 , vital:28713
- Description: This treatise deals with the design of a new yacht manufacturing facility for Robertson and Caine in the East London harbour. It arose from issues with the degradation of the precinct and social and economic issues relating to this. This treatise investigates the issues and process involved in the design of a Yacht manufacturing Facility in the East London Harbour. The purpose of this treatise is to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical and theoretical nature of a Yacht Manufacturing Facility. This identifies a set of architectural issues to which an appropriate architectural design is proposed. Conclusions based on the research findings and analysis of a selected site will be drawn and translated to formulate a vision for the proposed yacht manufacturing facility.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a youth resource centre-, in Korsten, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Marillier, Nicole Nora
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Library buildings -- Planning , Recreation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15453 , vital:28250
- Description: This treatise investigates the contextual, spatial, physical and social-economic conditions of Korsten, Port Elizabeth, in order to produce an architectural intervention in the form of a Youth Resource Centre, that can respond to unemployment, gangsterism, drug abuse and health issues. Korsten has a high concentration of schooling facilities which draws in youths from surrounding areas such as Gelvandale and New Brighton thus creating a nodal point of youthful energy. Through research and understanding of existing conditions it is hoped to provide an intervention strategy to be a catalyst to promote the urban regeneration of the Korsten precinct which will give a cultural identity and community upliftment to the area. The methodology used is in the form of both qualitative and quantitative research oriented towards discovery, description and an overall understanding of processes and activities. The “nature of the site” is studied by breaking down the various spatial and physical structures that make up Korsten. Layers were mapped out on various scales from metro to sub-metro. Several precedent studies were done - three precedent studies focused on similar “township” contextual conditions for community type buildings. These precedents were analysed through certain categories (contextual, spatial and material) in order to depict certain positive and negative aspects. Further four precedent studies were done to form an understanding of the nature of the building type. The selection of the buildings was based on the programmes aimed at youth development all concerned with the youth of their various areas. The selected buildings were viewed through specific criteria in order to draw conclusions from which to generate an appropriate architectural response. From these aspects conclusions were drawn which were applied in the design process. As these conditions were being unpacked, a youth resource centre emerged focused on education , health and performance showcasing. This building type developed in response to the specific challenges faced by the youth of the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Marillier, Nicole Nora
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Library buildings -- Planning , Recreation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15453 , vital:28250
- Description: This treatise investigates the contextual, spatial, physical and social-economic conditions of Korsten, Port Elizabeth, in order to produce an architectural intervention in the form of a Youth Resource Centre, that can respond to unemployment, gangsterism, drug abuse and health issues. Korsten has a high concentration of schooling facilities which draws in youths from surrounding areas such as Gelvandale and New Brighton thus creating a nodal point of youthful energy. Through research and understanding of existing conditions it is hoped to provide an intervention strategy to be a catalyst to promote the urban regeneration of the Korsten precinct which will give a cultural identity and community upliftment to the area. The methodology used is in the form of both qualitative and quantitative research oriented towards discovery, description and an overall understanding of processes and activities. The “nature of the site” is studied by breaking down the various spatial and physical structures that make up Korsten. Layers were mapped out on various scales from metro to sub-metro. Several precedent studies were done - three precedent studies focused on similar “township” contextual conditions for community type buildings. These precedents were analysed through certain categories (contextual, spatial and material) in order to depict certain positive and negative aspects. Further four precedent studies were done to form an understanding of the nature of the building type. The selection of the buildings was based on the programmes aimed at youth development all concerned with the youth of their various areas. The selected buildings were viewed through specific criteria in order to draw conclusions from which to generate an appropriate architectural response. From these aspects conclusions were drawn which were applied in the design process. As these conditions were being unpacked, a youth resource centre emerged focused on education , health and performance showcasing. This building type developed in response to the specific challenges faced by the youth of the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an affroestation plant for Tsitsikamma forest reserve, province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Maybery, Keegan Lyle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Architecture -- Environmental aspects Architecture, Modern -- 21st century , Forest conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma Forests and forestry -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18875 , vital:28742
- Description: Environmental degeneration along the south coast of South Africa’s Garden route, particularly the Tsitsikamma region, has reached dire straits. The commercial alien tree plantations have taken over national reserves resulting in wildlife habitat and movement restrictions, high risk fire zones, the choking of crucial mountain water catchments as well as depleted the sense of place of the area (Cowling et al., 2009). Poor management of these reserves and commercial plantation supervision are primary contributors to this, which has lead to the ecological immanent disaster we now face. The result of this is a complete depletion of fresh water feeding the local community and tourists, the local agriculture which supply food to much of the coastal region and ultimately the destruction of indigenous natural biomes with devastating effect on the species of flora and fauna in the area. The aim of this treatise is to introduce a flexible metabolic building within the sensitive natural environment in order to catalyse the afforestation of indigenous flora in the Tsitsikamma region. This is to be achieved through a design process that involves the development of an adaptable architecture that responds to the delicacy of the site and the interwoven nature of the ecology with which it must interact, taking cognisance of the significance of flexibility, place and trace in the approach. The design implementation is envisoned to possess two stages, namely the implemention of a sawmill (Phase 1) as a temporary unit which will permanently eradicate the alien forestry and re-purpose the trees into fertilizer, biofuel and building materials. Once the sawmill has fulfilled its purpose, the temporary structure will take on a new form through a tranformation into a Honeybush tea processing plant. Phase 2 of the practical implementation involves the re-use of the processed timber, which will be incorporated as the building material for the construction of a management, exhibition and research facility. Ultimately “filling in the gaps” of the fragmented coastal forest ecosystem reconnecting Tsitsikamma to the Wilderness nature reserve. The infill will be in the form of Honeybush, an indigenous plant which exhibits lush flowers and other indigenous forest flora. The Honeybush yields Vitamin C, potassium, calcium and magnesium. It’s natural materials contain bioactive compounds called polyphenols that are known to possess antioxidants, antiatherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antitumor, and antiviral activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Maybery, Keegan Lyle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Architecture -- Environmental aspects Architecture, Modern -- 21st century , Forest conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma Forests and forestry -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18875 , vital:28742
- Description: Environmental degeneration along the south coast of South Africa’s Garden route, particularly the Tsitsikamma region, has reached dire straits. The commercial alien tree plantations have taken over national reserves resulting in wildlife habitat and movement restrictions, high risk fire zones, the choking of crucial mountain water catchments as well as depleted the sense of place of the area (Cowling et al., 2009). Poor management of these reserves and commercial plantation supervision are primary contributors to this, which has lead to the ecological immanent disaster we now face. The result of this is a complete depletion of fresh water feeding the local community and tourists, the local agriculture which supply food to much of the coastal region and ultimately the destruction of indigenous natural biomes with devastating effect on the species of flora and fauna in the area. The aim of this treatise is to introduce a flexible metabolic building within the sensitive natural environment in order to catalyse the afforestation of indigenous flora in the Tsitsikamma region. This is to be achieved through a design process that involves the development of an adaptable architecture that responds to the delicacy of the site and the interwoven nature of the ecology with which it must interact, taking cognisance of the significance of flexibility, place and trace in the approach. The design implementation is envisoned to possess two stages, namely the implemention of a sawmill (Phase 1) as a temporary unit which will permanently eradicate the alien forestry and re-purpose the trees into fertilizer, biofuel and building materials. Once the sawmill has fulfilled its purpose, the temporary structure will take on a new form through a tranformation into a Honeybush tea processing plant. Phase 2 of the practical implementation involves the re-use of the processed timber, which will be incorporated as the building material for the construction of a management, exhibition and research facility. Ultimately “filling in the gaps” of the fragmented coastal forest ecosystem reconnecting Tsitsikamma to the Wilderness nature reserve. The infill will be in the form of Honeybush, an indigenous plant which exhibits lush flowers and other indigenous forest flora. The Honeybush yields Vitamin C, potassium, calcium and magnesium. It’s natural materials contain bioactive compounds called polyphenols that are known to possess antioxidants, antiatherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antitumor, and antiviral activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an airport terminal in Somerset East, province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Karihindi, Kounikui
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Aeronautical museums -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Airport buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Airports -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18886 , vital:28743
- Description: In addressing the stunted growth of the town of Somerset East, the treatise suggests that the model of an aerotropolis be used as means to spur economic growth an development of the town. The treatise proposes the design of an air terminal facility, to act as a catalyst, for which growth of a mini-Aerotropolis will happen around as well as a northern gateway for tourism to two of South Africa's popular national parks; Addo Elephant National Park and Mountain Zebra National park. The challenge being the creation of a building type that incorporates several would be segregated activities into one hybrid that generates public space within an interface or transcient space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Karihindi, Kounikui
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Aeronautical museums -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Airport buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Airports -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18886 , vital:28743
- Description: In addressing the stunted growth of the town of Somerset East, the treatise suggests that the model of an aerotropolis be used as means to spur economic growth an development of the town. The treatise proposes the design of an air terminal facility, to act as a catalyst, for which growth of a mini-Aerotropolis will happen around as well as a northern gateway for tourism to two of South Africa's popular national parks; Addo Elephant National Park and Mountain Zebra National park. The challenge being the creation of a building type that incorporates several would be segregated activities into one hybrid that generates public space within an interface or transcient space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an aquaculture plant for the lower Swartkops valley, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Skein, Philip Jacobus
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Architecture -- Conservation and restoration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Landscape architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Aquaculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Fishes -- Conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15389 , vital:28237
- Description: This treatise originated as a response to the current environmental issue that is currently threatening the existence of biodiversities within the Swartkops Estuarine region. The increasing amount of illegal and negligent human-related activities within the Estuary has seen to an rise in degradation and destruction of our natural ecosystems with the issue of water pollution recently acquiring crisis stage. Being brought up in Uitenhage, the close proximity of the Swartkops River naturally served as an endless resource of outdoor activities over the years. Witnessing the current degraded state of my beloved river served as motivation for this treatise which is an attempt to address and reconcile our relationship with the natural environment. The issues facing the natural environment of Swartkops will be looked at in depth and sets of integrated interventions will be proposed in order to minimise further anthropocentric effects on nature. The project will attempt to develop a restorative design framework that will achieve ecological-, economical-, and social sustainability whilst voicing conservation awareness through the promotion of sustainable industry in the region. The project will address issues of natural degradation on various scales in order to develop an holistic approach that will restore and sustain the local- and national value of the Swartkops Estuary. The series of interventions will eventually lead to the design of a building located in Swartkops Village.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Skein, Philip Jacobus
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Architecture -- Conservation and restoration -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Landscape architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Aquaculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Fishes -- Conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15389 , vital:28237
- Description: This treatise originated as a response to the current environmental issue that is currently threatening the existence of biodiversities within the Swartkops Estuarine region. The increasing amount of illegal and negligent human-related activities within the Estuary has seen to an rise in degradation and destruction of our natural ecosystems with the issue of water pollution recently acquiring crisis stage. Being brought up in Uitenhage, the close proximity of the Swartkops River naturally served as an endless resource of outdoor activities over the years. Witnessing the current degraded state of my beloved river served as motivation for this treatise which is an attempt to address and reconcile our relationship with the natural environment. The issues facing the natural environment of Swartkops will be looked at in depth and sets of integrated interventions will be proposed in order to minimise further anthropocentric effects on nature. The project will attempt to develop a restorative design framework that will achieve ecological-, economical-, and social sustainability whilst voicing conservation awareness through the promotion of sustainable industry in the region. The project will address issues of natural degradation on various scales in order to develop an holistic approach that will restore and sustain the local- and national value of the Swartkops Estuary. The series of interventions will eventually lead to the design of a building located in Swartkops Village.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an international wool exchange for Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Bothma, Ashley Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Historic sites -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38852 , vital:35007
- Description: Due to the growth increase in the wool industry in South Africa and the industry's lack of public activity that the existing South Africa (S.A) wool exchange exudes, the opportunity for a new type of wool exchange presents itself. the advantages in technology have evolved in many an industry and the same can be for the wool industry. the existing S.A. wool exchange fails to comfortably meet the needs of the industry with regards to technology. the creation of international wool exchange will provide a platform to boost the industry and incorporate the use of current technology to improve on the process involved within the program. BKB. Ltd have expressed a similar interest in the development of an international wool exchange but have requested the use of an abounded heritage building in an attempt at a sustainable future through re-use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bothma, Ashley Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Historic sites -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38852 , vital:35007
- Description: Due to the growth increase in the wool industry in South Africa and the industry's lack of public activity that the existing South Africa (S.A) wool exchange exudes, the opportunity for a new type of wool exchange presents itself. the advantages in technology have evolved in many an industry and the same can be for the wool industry. the existing S.A. wool exchange fails to comfortably meet the needs of the industry with regards to technology. the creation of international wool exchange will provide a platform to boost the industry and incorporate the use of current technology to improve on the process involved within the program. BKB. Ltd have expressed a similar interest in the development of an international wool exchange but have requested the use of an abounded heritage building in an attempt at a sustainable future through re-use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an internet sever facility in central, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Binda, Mathew Ryan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Land use, Urban -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Central places -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18762 , vital:28720
- Description: The concepts underlying this treatise develop from an observation of contemporary society’s inherent reliance on technology, its growing popularity as an information exchange mechanism and Africa’s lack of connection to it’s foundation, the internet. Human interaction with digital technology, supported by the internet, has created a new social culture which manifests meaning through visual and virtual cues. These make reference to place and are experienced as real and individual, relating to theories such as Heidegger’s imagined place (Heidegger 1971). In order to enhance Southern Africa’s connection with the global network of the internet, the design of an Internet Server Facility will bridge previously under-utilized international lines into the country at Port Elizabeth engaging with the existing infrastructural system. At this point of connection the infrastructural zone impedes the extension of a public environment. The design seeks to challenge the conception of the highway infrastructure in Port Elizabeth as objects that dehumanise space. It intends to emphasise structure and building as a set of processes or systems able to work together to enable not only the functional aspects of data infrastructure, but also respond to the urban fabric providing a multitude of spatial environments that engage with everyday human activity. Investigations of the previous impact of infrastructure which has been layered onto the edge of Port Elizabeth’s historical core, reveal the stripping of it’s place-making qualities over time, resulting in an urban wasteland. In considering the placement of an infrastructural system, an existing vacant space that forms part of the current infrastructure is more appropriate than using up other urban spaces. In its response, the system would need to respond to its urban environment in a way that infrastructure has previously failed to do in this area, due to its position adjacent to the CBD. For this reason the design is concerned with the urban rejuvenation of the scarred landscape and a design strategy for the development of a contemporary digital infrastructural system, capable of not only being a non-evasive to the urban environment but also a catalyst in the creation of physical and digital place-making in the public realm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Binda, Mathew Ryan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Land use, Urban -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Central places -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18762 , vital:28720
- Description: The concepts underlying this treatise develop from an observation of contemporary society’s inherent reliance on technology, its growing popularity as an information exchange mechanism and Africa’s lack of connection to it’s foundation, the internet. Human interaction with digital technology, supported by the internet, has created a new social culture which manifests meaning through visual and virtual cues. These make reference to place and are experienced as real and individual, relating to theories such as Heidegger’s imagined place (Heidegger 1971). In order to enhance Southern Africa’s connection with the global network of the internet, the design of an Internet Server Facility will bridge previously under-utilized international lines into the country at Port Elizabeth engaging with the existing infrastructural system. At this point of connection the infrastructural zone impedes the extension of a public environment. The design seeks to challenge the conception of the highway infrastructure in Port Elizabeth as objects that dehumanise space. It intends to emphasise structure and building as a set of processes or systems able to work together to enable not only the functional aspects of data infrastructure, but also respond to the urban fabric providing a multitude of spatial environments that engage with everyday human activity. Investigations of the previous impact of infrastructure which has been layered onto the edge of Port Elizabeth’s historical core, reveal the stripping of it’s place-making qualities over time, resulting in an urban wasteland. In considering the placement of an infrastructural system, an existing vacant space that forms part of the current infrastructure is more appropriate than using up other urban spaces. In its response, the system would need to respond to its urban environment in a way that infrastructure has previously failed to do in this area, due to its position adjacent to the CBD. For this reason the design is concerned with the urban rejuvenation of the scarred landscape and a design strategy for the development of a contemporary digital infrastructural system, capable of not only being a non-evasive to the urban environment but also a catalyst in the creation of physical and digital place-making in the public realm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an office and service facilities for the daily dispatch in East London
- Authors: Van Heerden, Ilka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Office buildings -- Design and construction Interior architecture -- South Africa -- East London , Office layout -- Design Office buildings -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18751 , vital:28719
- Description: A lack of understanding of the multi-dimensional field of built environment heritage places the non-monumental fabric of historic city centres under great threat. This fabric plays a vital role in contributing to the collective significance and character of a place, despite its comparatively less remarkable nature. These buildings are often most susceptible to change, especially with regard to use. Responsible conservation and innovative design can allow buildings to undergo inevitable change, without compromising their heritage significance, despite the increasing demands of contemporary urban building typologies. Office typologies of the 21st century are particularly demanding with regard to efficiency, flexibility, sustainability and the need for a creative environment that promotes collaboration among knowledge workers. The document sets out a process by which to sensitively manage the juxtaposed relationship between historic buildings and a contemporary use, to generate an innovative design, resilient in its ability to retain the historic meaning of existing buildings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Van Heerden, Ilka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Office buildings -- Design and construction Interior architecture -- South Africa -- East London , Office layout -- Design Office buildings -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18751 , vital:28719
- Description: A lack of understanding of the multi-dimensional field of built environment heritage places the non-monumental fabric of historic city centres under great threat. This fabric plays a vital role in contributing to the collective significance and character of a place, despite its comparatively less remarkable nature. These buildings are often most susceptible to change, especially with regard to use. Responsible conservation and innovative design can allow buildings to undergo inevitable change, without compromising their heritage significance, despite the increasing demands of contemporary urban building typologies. Office typologies of the 21st century are particularly demanding with regard to efficiency, flexibility, sustainability and the need for a creative environment that promotes collaboration among knowledge workers. The document sets out a process by which to sensitively manage the juxtaposed relationship between historic buildings and a contemporary use, to generate an innovative design, resilient in its ability to retain the historic meaning of existing buildings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an urban agriculture centre for Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Marinus, Sheree Anne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18919 , vital:28749
- Description: This dissertation is based on the design of an Urban Agriculture Centre situated within the urban fabric of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The treatise evolves out of issues pertaining to actual problems. Deforestation, desertification, floods, drought, population growth and pollution, only to name a few, are issues that play a crucial role in the survival of humanity and other ecosystems. After extensive research, it was identified that traditional farms are unsustainable, inefficient and causes great damage to the environment. Current farming methods will not be able to produce enough food for the growing population. Traditional farming relies on the climate and particular seasons to produce crops. At the rate that the population is growing, traditional farmers will not be able to keep up. Traditional farms use hectares and hectares of land - this is the one major disadvantage, as there is only a certain amount of arable land in the country. The treatise diagnosed this problem, and proposes that farming should move into the urban areas, where the majority of the population subsists. New generation farming techniques allows for agriculture to take place within the urban fabric. The agriculture technique that will be used in this treatise is hydroponics. The treatise addresses urban issues such as sprawl and wasted space within urban areas. For this reason, the treatise adopts a derelict industrial heritage building, within the Central Business District of Port Elizabeth, as the building that will be utilized by the proposed urban farm. The treatise has chosen the Old Premier Mill Building in Port Elizabeth as a suitable candidate for the proposed project. The building is over one hundred years old, and possesses unique heritage value. Using an existing building is a sustainable option, but for obvious reasons the treatise will be challenged to preserve the heritage value of the old Premier Mill building. The concept of an urban farm/vertical farm is perceived as a highly technical building, due to its nature, which demands a ‘high-tech’ aesthetic. The treatise challenges this contrast: designing a highly technical building while trying to preserve a structure of high heritage value. Part one of this dissertation sets the groundwork for the treatise and discusses the different aspects the of the project that will influence the design. Part two sets the foundation for all the aspects that will inform the treatise concerning the proposed project. The knowledge gathered in these two sections will be applied in part three of this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Marinus, Sheree Anne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18919 , vital:28749
- Description: This dissertation is based on the design of an Urban Agriculture Centre situated within the urban fabric of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The treatise evolves out of issues pertaining to actual problems. Deforestation, desertification, floods, drought, population growth and pollution, only to name a few, are issues that play a crucial role in the survival of humanity and other ecosystems. After extensive research, it was identified that traditional farms are unsustainable, inefficient and causes great damage to the environment. Current farming methods will not be able to produce enough food for the growing population. Traditional farming relies on the climate and particular seasons to produce crops. At the rate that the population is growing, traditional farmers will not be able to keep up. Traditional farms use hectares and hectares of land - this is the one major disadvantage, as there is only a certain amount of arable land in the country. The treatise diagnosed this problem, and proposes that farming should move into the urban areas, where the majority of the population subsists. New generation farming techniques allows for agriculture to take place within the urban fabric. The agriculture technique that will be used in this treatise is hydroponics. The treatise addresses urban issues such as sprawl and wasted space within urban areas. For this reason, the treatise adopts a derelict industrial heritage building, within the Central Business District of Port Elizabeth, as the building that will be utilized by the proposed urban farm. The treatise has chosen the Old Premier Mill Building in Port Elizabeth as a suitable candidate for the proposed project. The building is over one hundred years old, and possesses unique heritage value. Using an existing building is a sustainable option, but for obvious reasons the treatise will be challenged to preserve the heritage value of the old Premier Mill building. The concept of an urban farm/vertical farm is perceived as a highly technical building, due to its nature, which demands a ‘high-tech’ aesthetic. The treatise challenges this contrast: designing a highly technical building while trying to preserve a structure of high heritage value. Part one of this dissertation sets the groundwork for the treatise and discusses the different aspects the of the project that will influence the design. Part two sets the foundation for all the aspects that will inform the treatise concerning the proposed project. The knowledge gathered in these two sections will be applied in part three of this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of offices for the Amathole district council in Stutterheim, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Njoba, Athenkosi Sinoxolo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Office buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans Business parks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Municipal buildings -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18896 , vital:28747
- Description: South Africa is 20 years into democracy and it prides itself in the 1994 democratic elections. This document briefly looks into the era of the democratic governance and its impact on the less developing settlements in the Amathole and Amahlathi districts. The meanings and concepts of democratic governance are explored. Consequently, the findings convey that not everyone in South Africa and Eastern Cape are able to practice their right of accessing information or voicing their opinion concerning government in a formal platform. This contradicts the core values to democracy which imply a people centered approach where people lead the country (themselves) through the governing authorities. The frequent protests against service delivery are a clear indication that there is a break down in the communication between government and South African citizens. Material from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) revealed that overpopulation, unemployment, poor education and lack of service delivery are the primary issues that hinder the progress of the region with reference to service delivery. Thus the primary objective of this research is to find ways to rehabilitate communication breakdown by creating a medium of clear dialogue between the government and its people. The architectural aim of this research is to design a district municipality that will be a connector of other municipalities, towns, settlements and precincts. The building aims to be a catalyst for development in the district that celebrates the heritage of the region. The project aims to communicate its fundamental concepts in the expression of the design, for example the permeability of the building will promote transparency, accessibility and integration with the community. In this way, democracy and its core principal of governing with the people will be done with less spatial hindrances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of offices for the Amathole district council in Stutterheim, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Njoba, Athenkosi Sinoxolo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Office buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans Business parks -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Municipal buildings -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18896 , vital:28747
- Description: South Africa is 20 years into democracy and it prides itself in the 1994 democratic elections. This document briefly looks into the era of the democratic governance and its impact on the less developing settlements in the Amathole and Amahlathi districts. The meanings and concepts of democratic governance are explored. Consequently, the findings convey that not everyone in South Africa and Eastern Cape are able to practice their right of accessing information or voicing their opinion concerning government in a formal platform. This contradicts the core values to democracy which imply a people centered approach where people lead the country (themselves) through the governing authorities. The frequent protests against service delivery are a clear indication that there is a break down in the communication between government and South African citizens. Material from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) revealed that overpopulation, unemployment, poor education and lack of service delivery are the primary issues that hinder the progress of the region with reference to service delivery. Thus the primary objective of this research is to find ways to rehabilitate communication breakdown by creating a medium of clear dialogue between the government and its people. The architectural aim of this research is to design a district municipality that will be a connector of other municipalities, towns, settlements and precincts. The building aims to be a catalyst for development in the district that celebrates the heritage of the region. The project aims to communicate its fundamental concepts in the expression of the design, for example the permeability of the building will promote transparency, accessibility and integration with the community. In this way, democracy and its core principal of governing with the people will be done with less spatial hindrances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The disputed “equitable treatment” in political party broadcasts: an analysis of the SABC coverage of the 2014 South African general elections
- Authors: Ndimande, Dumisani Blessing
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Press coverage -- South Africa , Election monitoring -- South Africa Communication in politics -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14234 , vital:27486
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish whether the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) performed according to its mandate in ensuring a fair broadcast coverage of all political parties that participated in the 2014 national general election. The study was undertaken as a result of the complaints by political parties who accused the SABC of bias during the election. The study focused on two SABC radio stations, namely SAFM and UKHOZI FM. In executing the research, particular attention was paid to the coverage of political party manifestos, town hall election debates and radio interviews. The study was written utilising the theoretical paradigm of Social Responsibility Theory, as this is largely deemed the most ethical guide in testing South African journalism. The research was conducted in accordance with the Independent Complaints Authority of South Africa (ICASA) regulations that govern broadcast media during elections. The second part of the analysis deconstructed the SABC’s media coverage of the 2014 election through Media Monitoring Africa – a non-profit organisation that monitors and reports on media coverage of elections, whilst simultaneously taking ICASA stipulated guidelines into account. The MMA and ICASA equipped the study with reports which were compiled after an intense monitoring of SABC’s coverage of the 2014 election. Through the analysis of political parties’ accessibility to the election broadcast programmes on SABC platforms, the study concluded that although there were errors, the SABC treated all parties fairly during the 2014 general elections. The study also found that poor corporate governance at the SABC did not impact directly on the public broadcaster’s ability to deliver fair election broadcasting. By conforming to the social responsibility role that calls for high professional conduct, fairness and objectivity as expected in the public broadcaster, this study found that the SABC was committed to a fair coverage of the 2014 election.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ndimande, Dumisani Blessing
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Press coverage -- South Africa , Election monitoring -- South Africa Communication in politics -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14234 , vital:27486
- Description: The aim of this study was to establish whether the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) performed according to its mandate in ensuring a fair broadcast coverage of all political parties that participated in the 2014 national general election. The study was undertaken as a result of the complaints by political parties who accused the SABC of bias during the election. The study focused on two SABC radio stations, namely SAFM and UKHOZI FM. In executing the research, particular attention was paid to the coverage of political party manifestos, town hall election debates and radio interviews. The study was written utilising the theoretical paradigm of Social Responsibility Theory, as this is largely deemed the most ethical guide in testing South African journalism. The research was conducted in accordance with the Independent Complaints Authority of South Africa (ICASA) regulations that govern broadcast media during elections. The second part of the analysis deconstructed the SABC’s media coverage of the 2014 election through Media Monitoring Africa – a non-profit organisation that monitors and reports on media coverage of elections, whilst simultaneously taking ICASA stipulated guidelines into account. The MMA and ICASA equipped the study with reports which were compiled after an intense monitoring of SABC’s coverage of the 2014 election. Through the analysis of political parties’ accessibility to the election broadcast programmes on SABC platforms, the study concluded that although there were errors, the SABC treated all parties fairly during the 2014 general elections. The study also found that poor corporate governance at the SABC did not impact directly on the public broadcaster’s ability to deliver fair election broadcasting. By conforming to the social responsibility role that calls for high professional conduct, fairness and objectivity as expected in the public broadcaster, this study found that the SABC was committed to a fair coverage of the 2014 election.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The effect of English as a medium of instruction on the academic performance of students in life orientation at Dower Campus of the Port Elizabeth College
- Authors: Magxaki, Akhona
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth English language -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14697 , vital:27825
- Description: South Africa is a country with 11 official languages including English. English, however, dominates the educational sector, as medium of instruction. This is despite a plethora of research that shows the cognitive advantages of mother tongue instruction and language policies that promote additive bilingual approaches. As subtractive language approaches characterise poor schooling contexts, the outcomes for students are poor. This is because they do not develop proficiency in any language. The abolition of apartheid in South Africa and the advent of democracy in 1994 resulted in dramatic changes in the education system. Nevertheless, the medium of instruction from Grade four has remained English. Consequently, for the majority of the population the education is in their second language. This study takes place in the higher education setting of a TVET college, namely the Dower Campus in Port Elizabeth. It focuses specifically on Level 2 (first year) Life Orientation students to consider the effect English has, as medium of instruction, on the academic performance of students. There is concern about the status of TVET colleges. Even though the higher education sector has transformed, these skills based colleges are still given inferior status in the eyes of the general public and students themselves. These students may be particularly at risk of success given that they have lower entry requirements than other students in the higher education sector. The subject Life Orientation was used to examine the effect of English on student performance. Life Orientation has come under scrutiny for its usefulness and it cognitive value. This study argues that it is a valuable subject for students at colleges, equipping them with knowledge to succeed at studies and in society at large. However, the pass rates for Life Orientation have been consistently low. The study wanted to probe the role of English in this performance. To address the aims and objectives of this study, relevant literature and various multilingual approaches were reviewed to determine which strategies might be most effective in helping students cope with English as medium of instruction. The study also presents a case for the development of indigenous languages as medium of instruction. The study used a mixed methods approach, that is both qualitative and quantitative methods, to explore the use, attitude and perceptions of English among lecturers and students. The research used an interpretive approach and the study took the form of a case study. The researcher took the stance of being a non-participant observer. Qualitative data was obtained through the use of interviews while quantitative data was obtained through the use of questionnaires. The interviews were recorded and transcribed by a transcriber. Data was analysed using a thematic approach. The results showed that majority of the students did not speak English frequently nor had it as a home language yet they all had a positive regard for the language. Many factors were responsible for student performance in Life Orientation such as attitude to subject, theoretical versus practical components of the subject and student background. However, the medium of instruction played a large role in this performance. Though lecturers foregrounded the importance of English as medium of instruction, they recognise that it was a barrier to understanding and affected student performance. Analysis of the lecturer interviews and the questionnaires with students revealed that students were experiencing difficulty speaking, reading and writing in English. Lecturers adapted their teaching strategies when teaching by including translanguaging strategies of code-switching to facilitate understanding. The data also indicated that code switching was considered by the lecturers to be the most suitable method in teaching to student. Code-meshing and written translations of material were not strategies employed by lecturers. Students indicated that they would prefer to write assignments drafts initially in mother tongue. The findings also suggested that it was necessary for the lecturer to use a variety of multilingual strategies to ensure that students enjoy success in Life Orientation. Based on the findings, this study makes recommendations regarding the teaching and learning of English to students which includes the use of multilingual classroom strategies, collaboration with language lecturers and development of a multilingual language policy to aid in the understanding and acquisition of English terminology used in LO content. Such a language policy should also seek to develop indigenous languages as mediums of instructions at the college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Magxaki, Akhona
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth English language -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14697 , vital:27825
- Description: South Africa is a country with 11 official languages including English. English, however, dominates the educational sector, as medium of instruction. This is despite a plethora of research that shows the cognitive advantages of mother tongue instruction and language policies that promote additive bilingual approaches. As subtractive language approaches characterise poor schooling contexts, the outcomes for students are poor. This is because they do not develop proficiency in any language. The abolition of apartheid in South Africa and the advent of democracy in 1994 resulted in dramatic changes in the education system. Nevertheless, the medium of instruction from Grade four has remained English. Consequently, for the majority of the population the education is in their second language. This study takes place in the higher education setting of a TVET college, namely the Dower Campus in Port Elizabeth. It focuses specifically on Level 2 (first year) Life Orientation students to consider the effect English has, as medium of instruction, on the academic performance of students. There is concern about the status of TVET colleges. Even though the higher education sector has transformed, these skills based colleges are still given inferior status in the eyes of the general public and students themselves. These students may be particularly at risk of success given that they have lower entry requirements than other students in the higher education sector. The subject Life Orientation was used to examine the effect of English on student performance. Life Orientation has come under scrutiny for its usefulness and it cognitive value. This study argues that it is a valuable subject for students at colleges, equipping them with knowledge to succeed at studies and in society at large. However, the pass rates for Life Orientation have been consistently low. The study wanted to probe the role of English in this performance. To address the aims and objectives of this study, relevant literature and various multilingual approaches were reviewed to determine which strategies might be most effective in helping students cope with English as medium of instruction. The study also presents a case for the development of indigenous languages as medium of instruction. The study used a mixed methods approach, that is both qualitative and quantitative methods, to explore the use, attitude and perceptions of English among lecturers and students. The research used an interpretive approach and the study took the form of a case study. The researcher took the stance of being a non-participant observer. Qualitative data was obtained through the use of interviews while quantitative data was obtained through the use of questionnaires. The interviews were recorded and transcribed by a transcriber. Data was analysed using a thematic approach. The results showed that majority of the students did not speak English frequently nor had it as a home language yet they all had a positive regard for the language. Many factors were responsible for student performance in Life Orientation such as attitude to subject, theoretical versus practical components of the subject and student background. However, the medium of instruction played a large role in this performance. Though lecturers foregrounded the importance of English as medium of instruction, they recognise that it was a barrier to understanding and affected student performance. Analysis of the lecturer interviews and the questionnaires with students revealed that students were experiencing difficulty speaking, reading and writing in English. Lecturers adapted their teaching strategies when teaching by including translanguaging strategies of code-switching to facilitate understanding. The data also indicated that code switching was considered by the lecturers to be the most suitable method in teaching to student. Code-meshing and written translations of material were not strategies employed by lecturers. Students indicated that they would prefer to write assignments drafts initially in mother tongue. The findings also suggested that it was necessary for the lecturer to use a variety of multilingual strategies to ensure that students enjoy success in Life Orientation. Based on the findings, this study makes recommendations regarding the teaching and learning of English to students which includes the use of multilingual classroom strategies, collaboration with language lecturers and development of a multilingual language policy to aid in the understanding and acquisition of English terminology used in LO content. Such a language policy should also seek to develop indigenous languages as mediums of instructions at the college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The implementation of a performance management and development system at the Department of Local Government & Traditional Affairs (Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Magqogqo, Ntomboxolo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8446 , vital:26359
- Description: Performance management and development is the continuous process of reflecting on, negotiating, developing, reviewing and making decisions about an individual’s performance in achieving organizational goals. The Public Service Regulations, 2001, requires departments to develop a performance management system in order to manage performance in a consultative, supportive and non- discriminatory manner. This should result in enhanced organizational efficiency and effectiveness, accountability for the use of resources and the achievement of results. The Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs is also expected to implement the employees Performance Management and Development System. Furthermore, the study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the performance management and development system in the Department of Local Government & Traditional affairs. To achieve this Likert questionnaire were distributed to employees of Local Government & Traditional Affairs. After previous steps were completed, the finding and recommendations of the study were made. The recommendations were made to assist management as to what need to be done for effective implementation of PMDS. The findings indicate that managers and supervisors lacked the continuous feedback as no regular meeting during the course of the month or year. The employee and his or her supervisor would meet during the annual assessment period at the end of financial year to decide on the final performance. The main recommendation of the research was that there should be regular workshops or awareness of departmental staff about PMDS and how it influences on productivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Magqogqo, Ntomboxolo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8446 , vital:26359
- Description: Performance management and development is the continuous process of reflecting on, negotiating, developing, reviewing and making decisions about an individual’s performance in achieving organizational goals. The Public Service Regulations, 2001, requires departments to develop a performance management system in order to manage performance in a consultative, supportive and non- discriminatory manner. This should result in enhanced organizational efficiency and effectiveness, accountability for the use of resources and the achievement of results. The Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs is also expected to implement the employees Performance Management and Development System. Furthermore, the study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the performance management and development system in the Department of Local Government & Traditional affairs. To achieve this Likert questionnaire were distributed to employees of Local Government & Traditional Affairs. After previous steps were completed, the finding and recommendations of the study were made. The recommendations were made to assist management as to what need to be done for effective implementation of PMDS. The findings indicate that managers and supervisors lacked the continuous feedback as no regular meeting during the course of the month or year. The employee and his or her supervisor would meet during the annual assessment period at the end of financial year to decide on the final performance. The main recommendation of the research was that there should be regular workshops or awareness of departmental staff about PMDS and how it influences on productivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The influence of decentralisation on community development in Gasabo district of Rwanda
- Authors: Indoha, Janvier Kimenyi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- Rwanda Community development -- Rwanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14345 , vital:27572
- Description: This study investigated the influence of decentralisation on community development in the Gasabo district of Rwanda. It was based on the assumption that the participation of citizens in decision-making, planning based on local needs and priorities and the implementation of development programmes associated with the decentralisation policy can improve service delivery and result in community development. It is vital that the decentralization policy be well understood so that appropriate strategies may be adopted and implemented with the aim of maximising advantages associated with it. This study provides, in addition to a literature review, a brief historical background of the evolution and transformation of governance in Rwanda. The country‟s system of governance as well as the challenges it has encountered along the way through different régimes are briefly addressed. Also, the legal and regulatory framework of the decentralization policy and strategies adopted and mechanisms of resource transfer are explained. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. Primary and secondary data were used in analysing the influence of decentralisation on community development in the Gasabo district of Rwanda. Primary data was collected through survey questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions, while secondary data were gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that in the Gasabo district, decentralisation has contributed significantly towards improving governance aspects such as accountability, and citizen participation in development programmes, which are prerequisite factors of development. Concerning the planning process, the research found that the district development plan (DDP) was crafted through drawing its priorities from the national development plans embedded in the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategies (EDPRS) and Rwanda‟s Vision 2020. However, despite the existence of the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF), created to join the development plans of development partners to the DDP, testimonies from development partners revealed that their relationship with the district is characterised by the lack of frank collaboration, leading to their not being fully associated in the planning process. This research also found that the decentralisation policy has contributed only to a limited extent to the improvement of service delivery in Gasabo district. It was observed that effective service delivery is still hampered by the lack of skilled employees, especially in the areas of education, health and engineering, a budget insufficient for the effective implementation of development projects in such a way as to satisfy the expectations of beneficiaries. In view of the aforementioned findings, the study recommends that the central government intervene in training district tax officers regarding mechanisms and strategies of maximising tax collection to draw sufficient funds to carry out development plans. Through building their capacity, the imbalance between the responsibilities and means allocated for carrying out their achievement can be progressively reduced. Furthermore, to prevent development from taking place in a random manner, district authorities should receive technical support from the central government through linking the local planning process to national poverty reduction efforts. The annual performance contract system needs to be strengthened and monitored to evaluate the implementation of district development plans so as to prevent any kind of poor leadership performance, with the aim of optimising available resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Indoha, Janvier Kimenyi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- Rwanda Community development -- Rwanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14345 , vital:27572
- Description: This study investigated the influence of decentralisation on community development in the Gasabo district of Rwanda. It was based on the assumption that the participation of citizens in decision-making, planning based on local needs and priorities and the implementation of development programmes associated with the decentralisation policy can improve service delivery and result in community development. It is vital that the decentralization policy be well understood so that appropriate strategies may be adopted and implemented with the aim of maximising advantages associated with it. This study provides, in addition to a literature review, a brief historical background of the evolution and transformation of governance in Rwanda. The country‟s system of governance as well as the challenges it has encountered along the way through different régimes are briefly addressed. Also, the legal and regulatory framework of the decentralization policy and strategies adopted and mechanisms of resource transfer are explained. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. Primary and secondary data were used in analysing the influence of decentralisation on community development in the Gasabo district of Rwanda. Primary data was collected through survey questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions, while secondary data were gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that in the Gasabo district, decentralisation has contributed significantly towards improving governance aspects such as accountability, and citizen participation in development programmes, which are prerequisite factors of development. Concerning the planning process, the research found that the district development plan (DDP) was crafted through drawing its priorities from the national development plans embedded in the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategies (EDPRS) and Rwanda‟s Vision 2020. However, despite the existence of the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF), created to join the development plans of development partners to the DDP, testimonies from development partners revealed that their relationship with the district is characterised by the lack of frank collaboration, leading to their not being fully associated in the planning process. This research also found that the decentralisation policy has contributed only to a limited extent to the improvement of service delivery in Gasabo district. It was observed that effective service delivery is still hampered by the lack of skilled employees, especially in the areas of education, health and engineering, a budget insufficient for the effective implementation of development projects in such a way as to satisfy the expectations of beneficiaries. In view of the aforementioned findings, the study recommends that the central government intervene in training district tax officers regarding mechanisms and strategies of maximising tax collection to draw sufficient funds to carry out development plans. Through building their capacity, the imbalance between the responsibilities and means allocated for carrying out their achievement can be progressively reduced. Furthermore, to prevent development from taking place in a random manner, district authorities should receive technical support from the central government through linking the local planning process to national poverty reduction efforts. The annual performance contract system needs to be strengthened and monitored to evaluate the implementation of district development plans so as to prevent any kind of poor leadership performance, with the aim of optimising available resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The interplay of social semiotics in selected examples of experiential brand marketing
- Authors: Rennie, Tarryn
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing , Semiotics , Branding (Marketing) , Social marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3695 , vital:20454
- Description: As with the traditional form of print advertising, advertisements were, and still are designed in a particular way to attract the viewer’s attention and direct the attention towards a specific area within the framework of the advertisement. However, besides print advertising, today’s markets require further interaction with consumers and the public at large. This has given rise to the use of experiential brand marketing whereby consumers interact with the brand in out-of-context situations. The advancement of technology has enabled user experiences to go beyond the traditional forms of branding such as television, print, radio and even on-line advertising, websites and so forth and users are able to upload experiential brand experiences instantly on social networking sites. This, in turn, has indicated that marketers need to take full advantage of social networking, PR and audience interaction with brands. Theo Van Leeuwen & Gunther Kress (2005:7) investigated the context of ‘framing’ in visual communication where elements either have some kind of ‘connectedness’ or ‘disconnectedness’. This study focuses on the context of Van Leeuwen’s (2005:7) ‘framing’ of traditional print magazine designs to the environments or brandscapes in which experiential brand activations are taking place. According to Lenderman (2006:52), experiential marketing requires person-to-person networking with consumers who use sophisticated networking tools for respectful conversations between the consumer and the brand. Not only is this a cost effective solution to making a relatively unknown brand reach the masses, but it also allows an opportunity of immediate audience participation and instant recording of data that can spread across a global network. The theoretical base of social semiotics, underpinned by Van Leeuwen’s theory of ‘framing’, forms the theoretical basis of this study, with case studies of various experiential brand activations being analysed. An analysis of the environment in which the brand experience takes place, along with consumer reactions and their reactions to the overall brand experience in terms of experiential branding is studied. The aim of this research is to identify how the interplay of social semiotics could be used to interpret the current trend of user brand experiences in terms of experiential, interactive marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rennie, Tarryn
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing , Semiotics , Branding (Marketing) , Social marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3695 , vital:20454
- Description: As with the traditional form of print advertising, advertisements were, and still are designed in a particular way to attract the viewer’s attention and direct the attention towards a specific area within the framework of the advertisement. However, besides print advertising, today’s markets require further interaction with consumers and the public at large. This has given rise to the use of experiential brand marketing whereby consumers interact with the brand in out-of-context situations. The advancement of technology has enabled user experiences to go beyond the traditional forms of branding such as television, print, radio and even on-line advertising, websites and so forth and users are able to upload experiential brand experiences instantly on social networking sites. This, in turn, has indicated that marketers need to take full advantage of social networking, PR and audience interaction with brands. Theo Van Leeuwen & Gunther Kress (2005:7) investigated the context of ‘framing’ in visual communication where elements either have some kind of ‘connectedness’ or ‘disconnectedness’. This study focuses on the context of Van Leeuwen’s (2005:7) ‘framing’ of traditional print magazine designs to the environments or brandscapes in which experiential brand activations are taking place. According to Lenderman (2006:52), experiential marketing requires person-to-person networking with consumers who use sophisticated networking tools for respectful conversations between the consumer and the brand. Not only is this a cost effective solution to making a relatively unknown brand reach the masses, but it also allows an opportunity of immediate audience participation and instant recording of data that can spread across a global network. The theoretical base of social semiotics, underpinned by Van Leeuwen’s theory of ‘framing’, forms the theoretical basis of this study, with case studies of various experiential brand activations being analysed. An analysis of the environment in which the brand experience takes place, along with consumer reactions and their reactions to the overall brand experience in terms of experiential branding is studied. The aim of this research is to identify how the interplay of social semiotics could be used to interpret the current trend of user brand experiences in terms of experiential, interactive marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The need for conflict management in organisations (a health insurance company, Port Elizabeth)
- Authors: Ajam, Razaana
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Conflict management , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Interpersonal relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3852 , vital:20469
- Description: Conflict is evident in many spheres of life, however this study concentrated more specifically on conflict relating to organisations. Organisational conflict is seen “as any social collectivity, organisations such as private sector companies, government departments, schools and universities, non-governmental organisations, and political parties all experience internal conflict in varying degrees” (Bradshaw, 2008: 22). Each individual coming into a workplace has created his or her own set of challenges especially in the brutal arena of business. Conflict has destructive and productive qualities that can diminish or elevate processes within an organization (Stone, 1999). If it is not harnessed properly or dealt with in the correct manner, it can damage the reputation of a business; resulting in its downfall and this in turn contaminates and affects peripheral businesses associated with the organisation downstream. This study explored the following key aspects: Background of organisational conflict and its management; Background of the organization; Whether these two areas mentioned above can work together to create a cost effective and efficient outcome when dealing with conflict. The research adopted a mixed method approach with predominant focus on qualitative research methodology. The main focus of this study was conflict management within organisations and to probe and determine whether companies see the need to employ the field of conflict management as a strategy in times of fluctuating dispositions. It is evident that the organisation may not be fully aware or make use of alternative conflict resolution strategies and that the main causes of conflict can be eliminated such as poor communication, ill-defined job descriptions and objectives and differing of opinions. The need to employ alternative methods of conflict management may be emphasised by looking at the costs that conflict produces and the use of limited vital resources and the loss of human capital.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ajam, Razaana
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Conflict management , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Interpersonal relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3852 , vital:20469
- Description: Conflict is evident in many spheres of life, however this study concentrated more specifically on conflict relating to organisations. Organisational conflict is seen “as any social collectivity, organisations such as private sector companies, government departments, schools and universities, non-governmental organisations, and political parties all experience internal conflict in varying degrees” (Bradshaw, 2008: 22). Each individual coming into a workplace has created his or her own set of challenges especially in the brutal arena of business. Conflict has destructive and productive qualities that can diminish or elevate processes within an organization (Stone, 1999). If it is not harnessed properly or dealt with in the correct manner, it can damage the reputation of a business; resulting in its downfall and this in turn contaminates and affects peripheral businesses associated with the organisation downstream. This study explored the following key aspects: Background of organisational conflict and its management; Background of the organization; Whether these two areas mentioned above can work together to create a cost effective and efficient outcome when dealing with conflict. The research adopted a mixed method approach with predominant focus on qualitative research methodology. The main focus of this study was conflict management within organisations and to probe and determine whether companies see the need to employ the field of conflict management as a strategy in times of fluctuating dispositions. It is evident that the organisation may not be fully aware or make use of alternative conflict resolution strategies and that the main causes of conflict can be eliminated such as poor communication, ill-defined job descriptions and objectives and differing of opinions. The need to employ alternative methods of conflict management may be emphasised by looking at the costs that conflict produces and the use of limited vital resources and the loss of human capital.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016