Investigating the effects of using a science writing heuristic approach in first year mechanical engineering laboratory report writing at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Authors: Papu, Kholisa Zizipho
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Technical writing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3011 , vital:20386
- Description: The extent to which writing can be used to promote learning from laboratory activities has received limited attention in engineering contexts in South Africa. In this study the Science Writing Heuristic (SWH) approach and aspects of academic literacies approach were used to develop laboratory report writing among first year mechanical engineering students. The intervention utilised a modified report writing template for engineering practical sessions which focused on argumentation, conceptual understanding, critical thinking and language literacies. Quantitative and qualitative data were generated via pre-post-analysis of the modified practical report template, Cornell Critical Thinking Test, questionnaires, as well as focus group interviews with students; and individual interviews with staff, on their perceptions of the SWH. The sample (n=56 matched pairs) was divided into three groups through convenience sampling. Group 1 (n=15) utilised an online intervention, Group 2 (n=20) utilised a paper-based intervention and Group 3 (n=21) utilised a standard paper-based laboratory report template. Statistically significant differences with large effect sizes were obtained between group scores from pre- to post-tests in terms of argumentation and language. No differences between the pre-post-test changes in terms of group conceptual scores (n= 91) were found and there was a drop in scores from pre- to post-test in terms of critical thinking (n= 56). Overall, the data indicates that the SWH approach improved students‟ argumentation and language literacies with large effect sizes. Focus group interviews revealed that students believed that the SWH approach made them “think deeper” and that they preferred the intervention (SWH) over the traditional approach. The apparent unawareness of the academics concerned in terms of argument-based inquiry provides a possible answer for their use of assessment strategies focused only on concepts. Focus group interviews revealed that students believed that the SWH approach made them “think deeper” and that they preferred the intervention (SWH) over the traditional approach. The apparent unawareness of the academics concerned in terms of argument-based inquiry provides a possible answer for their use of assessment strategies focused only on concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Papu, Kholisa Zizipho
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Technical writing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3011 , vital:20386
- Description: The extent to which writing can be used to promote learning from laboratory activities has received limited attention in engineering contexts in South Africa. In this study the Science Writing Heuristic (SWH) approach and aspects of academic literacies approach were used to develop laboratory report writing among first year mechanical engineering students. The intervention utilised a modified report writing template for engineering practical sessions which focused on argumentation, conceptual understanding, critical thinking and language literacies. Quantitative and qualitative data were generated via pre-post-analysis of the modified practical report template, Cornell Critical Thinking Test, questionnaires, as well as focus group interviews with students; and individual interviews with staff, on their perceptions of the SWH. The sample (n=56 matched pairs) was divided into three groups through convenience sampling. Group 1 (n=15) utilised an online intervention, Group 2 (n=20) utilised a paper-based intervention and Group 3 (n=21) utilised a standard paper-based laboratory report template. Statistically significant differences with large effect sizes were obtained between group scores from pre- to post-tests in terms of argumentation and language. No differences between the pre-post-test changes in terms of group conceptual scores (n= 91) were found and there was a drop in scores from pre- to post-test in terms of critical thinking (n= 56). Overall, the data indicates that the SWH approach improved students‟ argumentation and language literacies with large effect sizes. Focus group interviews revealed that students believed that the SWH approach made them “think deeper” and that they preferred the intervention (SWH) over the traditional approach. The apparent unawareness of the academics concerned in terms of argument-based inquiry provides a possible answer for their use of assessment strategies focused only on concepts. Focus group interviews revealed that students believed that the SWH approach made them “think deeper” and that they preferred the intervention (SWH) over the traditional approach. The apparent unawareness of the academics concerned in terms of argument-based inquiry provides a possible answer for their use of assessment strategies focused only on concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investigating the impact of poverty in Amahlathi Municipality: the case of Siyakholwa Development Foundation project
- Authors: Mabuda, Gcotyiswa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7846 , vital:24314
- Description: The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that range from halving extreme poverty rates to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS and providing universal primary education, have been the most effective anti‐poverty push in history. The lives of thousands of people have been improved and targets have already been met on reducing poverty, increasing access to safe water, improving the lives of slum dwellers, and achieving gender parity in primary education. Despite huge gains, progress towards the eight MDGs has been uneven, not only among regions and countries, but also between population groups within countries, with accelerated action needed in many areas (MDG, 2013). On the other hand poverty alleviation, when we look at poverty alleviation, Mbaku (2007) defines it as the creation of a social, economic, and political environment that enhances and promotes entrepreneurial activities particularly among the poorest and most deprived persons while at the same time eliminating the inequalities that have diminished their life chances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mabuda, Gcotyiswa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek , Public welfare -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Keiskammahoek
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7846 , vital:24314
- Description: The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that range from halving extreme poverty rates to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS and providing universal primary education, have been the most effective anti‐poverty push in history. The lives of thousands of people have been improved and targets have already been met on reducing poverty, increasing access to safe water, improving the lives of slum dwellers, and achieving gender parity in primary education. Despite huge gains, progress towards the eight MDGs has been uneven, not only among regions and countries, but also between population groups within countries, with accelerated action needed in many areas (MDG, 2013). On the other hand poverty alleviation, when we look at poverty alleviation, Mbaku (2007) defines it as the creation of a social, economic, and political environment that enhances and promotes entrepreneurial activities particularly among the poorest and most deprived persons while at the same time eliminating the inequalities that have diminished their life chances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investigating the reasons for the high failure rate in the subject mathematics as part of the national certificate (NCV) at Port Elizabeth College
- Authors: Dolley, Ziyaad
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: School failure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9011 , vital:26456
- Description: Over the past years the FET Colleges sector has been plagued by high failure rates in mathematics and science as part of the National Curriculum (Vocational) course. This study sought to investigate the possible reasons for the high failure rates in NCV mathematics at Iqhayiya Campus of PE College. The purpose of the research was to elicit these possible reasons from students who currently are doing the NCV mathematics course at the Iqhayiya Campus. This study follows a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative results. Quantitative data were gathered by means of questionnaires submitted to students doing NCV mathematics at the Iqhayiya Campus. A Likert scale was used to evaluate the questionnaires. The qualitative data for this study was collected through researcher questions in focus group interviews. The study concludes with recommendations to the management of PE College, the Department of Higher Education and all relevant role players.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Dolley, Ziyaad
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: School failure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9011 , vital:26456
- Description: Over the past years the FET Colleges sector has been plagued by high failure rates in mathematics and science as part of the National Curriculum (Vocational) course. This study sought to investigate the possible reasons for the high failure rates in NCV mathematics at Iqhayiya Campus of PE College. The purpose of the research was to elicit these possible reasons from students who currently are doing the NCV mathematics course at the Iqhayiya Campus. This study follows a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative results. Quantitative data were gathered by means of questionnaires submitted to students doing NCV mathematics at the Iqhayiya Campus. A Likert scale was used to evaluate the questionnaires. The qualitative data for this study was collected through researcher questions in focus group interviews. The study concludes with recommendations to the management of PE College, the Department of Higher Education and all relevant role players.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investigating the use of social networking via mobile phone as an extension tool in small-scale (emerging) agriculture in selected farming communities in the Cacadu District
- Authors: Atinuke, Jimoh Rashidat
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Communication in economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Digital media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18398 , vital:28633
- Description: We live in the era in which the internet is now available on the majority of mobile phones at a very cheaper rate. This advancement in technology has created a boom in the use of mobile phone social networking as a primary communication tool - not only for individuals but also commonly used by professionals in most fields. The trends and growing usage of social networking via mobile phone indicate a potentially effective new platform for increasing production especially in agricultural sectors. In this age of information technology, farming communities can be empowered with the latest information and knowledge through mobile phone social networking to enhance agricultural development. The study investigates the use of mobile phone social networking as an extension tool in small-scale (emerging) farmers in selected farming communities in the Cacadu District Municipality of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Specifically, the study investigates the use of available mobile phone social networks; what they are used for; and the importance and benefits of social networking both generally and to the farming communities. The study further identifies problems inhibiting the use of mobile phone social networking. Other channels through which the small-scale (emerging) farmers acquire agricultural information, aside from via mobile phone, and the type of agricultural information these farmers acquire, are also investigated. This study focuses on the use - and not the testing or adoption of - mobile phone social networking in small-scale (emerging) agriculture. In the exercise to investigate the use of social networking apps via mobile phone, data was collected from 40 small-scale (emerging) farmers using a purposive sampling method. This study used a survey design, exploratory and descriptive research methodologies. Data was captured by administering a questionnaire through personal face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics such as simple frequency tables, percentages and bar graphs were used. From the Chi-square testing, it was found that agricultural knowledge levels, internet access and size of production farm land influence the use of social networking by the small-scale (emerging) farmers. However, the result of this study showed that gender, age, other income and educational level of the small-scale (emerging) farmers are not statistically significant determinants of social networking use. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was found to be 0.95. To establish the strength of associations of the variables, Cramer’s V ranging between 0.04 and 0.9 (signifying relationships from negligible to very strong association) was used. The findings showed that different social networks are used by the farming communities, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Blackberry messenger, MXit, Twitter and YouTube. The various uses of these social networks by the farmers are discussed. The benefits and problems inhibiting their use are also outlined. Other sources of acquiring agricultural information by the farmers aside from social networking via mobile phone are examined. The result of the study shows that [agricultural extension officers, other farmers, farmers’ discussion groups, friends and family,] are major sources of agricultural information to the small-scale (emerging) farmers while other sources are television, radio, print media and result demonstrations. The study suggests that to enhance mobile phone social networking to ensure that timely and effective agricultural information is readily accessible to the small-scale (emerging) farmers. These include agricultural extension officers making optimal use of social networking via mobile phone, due to the strong interaction and trust between them and the farmers. This interaction can be instrumental in the effective use of this technology as a resourceful medium for accessing agricultural information to enhance productivity. Proper awareness and understanding of the potential and benefits of mobile social networking by the farmers will motivate the small-scale (emerging) farmers to use the technology for effective agricultural purposes. Also, ensuring the availability of agricultural information to small-scale (emerging) farmers by setting up on-line pages or websites to discuss matters of interest and educate and update farmers on agricultural issues should be encouraged. This may attract the younger generation and the youth to participate fully in agricultural activities - thereby enhancing agricultural development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Atinuke, Jimoh Rashidat
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Communication in economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Digital media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18398 , vital:28633
- Description: We live in the era in which the internet is now available on the majority of mobile phones at a very cheaper rate. This advancement in technology has created a boom in the use of mobile phone social networking as a primary communication tool - not only for individuals but also commonly used by professionals in most fields. The trends and growing usage of social networking via mobile phone indicate a potentially effective new platform for increasing production especially in agricultural sectors. In this age of information technology, farming communities can be empowered with the latest information and knowledge through mobile phone social networking to enhance agricultural development. The study investigates the use of mobile phone social networking as an extension tool in small-scale (emerging) farmers in selected farming communities in the Cacadu District Municipality of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Specifically, the study investigates the use of available mobile phone social networks; what they are used for; and the importance and benefits of social networking both generally and to the farming communities. The study further identifies problems inhibiting the use of mobile phone social networking. Other channels through which the small-scale (emerging) farmers acquire agricultural information, aside from via mobile phone, and the type of agricultural information these farmers acquire, are also investigated. This study focuses on the use - and not the testing or adoption of - mobile phone social networking in small-scale (emerging) agriculture. In the exercise to investigate the use of social networking apps via mobile phone, data was collected from 40 small-scale (emerging) farmers using a purposive sampling method. This study used a survey design, exploratory and descriptive research methodologies. Data was captured by administering a questionnaire through personal face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics such as simple frequency tables, percentages and bar graphs were used. From the Chi-square testing, it was found that agricultural knowledge levels, internet access and size of production farm land influence the use of social networking by the small-scale (emerging) farmers. However, the result of this study showed that gender, age, other income and educational level of the small-scale (emerging) farmers are not statistically significant determinants of social networking use. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was found to be 0.95. To establish the strength of associations of the variables, Cramer’s V ranging between 0.04 and 0.9 (signifying relationships from negligible to very strong association) was used. The findings showed that different social networks are used by the farming communities, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Blackberry messenger, MXit, Twitter and YouTube. The various uses of these social networks by the farmers are discussed. The benefits and problems inhibiting their use are also outlined. Other sources of acquiring agricultural information by the farmers aside from social networking via mobile phone are examined. The result of the study shows that [agricultural extension officers, other farmers, farmers’ discussion groups, friends and family,] are major sources of agricultural information to the small-scale (emerging) farmers while other sources are television, radio, print media and result demonstrations. The study suggests that to enhance mobile phone social networking to ensure that timely and effective agricultural information is readily accessible to the small-scale (emerging) farmers. These include agricultural extension officers making optimal use of social networking via mobile phone, due to the strong interaction and trust between them and the farmers. This interaction can be instrumental in the effective use of this technology as a resourceful medium for accessing agricultural information to enhance productivity. Proper awareness and understanding of the potential and benefits of mobile social networking by the farmers will motivate the small-scale (emerging) farmers to use the technology for effective agricultural purposes. Also, ensuring the availability of agricultural information to small-scale (emerging) farmers by setting up on-line pages or websites to discuss matters of interest and educate and update farmers on agricultural issues should be encouraged. This may attract the younger generation and the youth to participate fully in agricultural activities - thereby enhancing agricultural development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Investment promotion: a Coega development corporation perspective
- Authors: Maduna, Thembinkosi Penford
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3614 , vital:20446
- Description: In March 2002, the Coega Development Cooperation (CDC) announced that the infrastructure design was complete, and the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) was declared the first IDZ in South Africa. The Coega IDZ was established to improve the delivery of infrastructure in the Eastern Cape by addressing skill shortages, unemployment, constrained planning and project management capacity, under-expenditure, sub-standard infrastructure, and inefficiencies that characterise delivery of infrastructure by government in South Africa generally and the Eastern Cape Province in particular. In the process, socio-economic development and transformation in the Eastern Cape and South Africa as a whole will be advanced. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the extent to which the various determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) influence the investment promotion strategy (IPS) used by the CDC, and how these determinants can be used in the IPS to increase the number of signed investors at the CDC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Maduna, Thembinkosi Penford
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3614 , vital:20446
- Description: In March 2002, the Coega Development Cooperation (CDC) announced that the infrastructure design was complete, and the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) was declared the first IDZ in South Africa. The Coega IDZ was established to improve the delivery of infrastructure in the Eastern Cape by addressing skill shortages, unemployment, constrained planning and project management capacity, under-expenditure, sub-standard infrastructure, and inefficiencies that characterise delivery of infrastructure by government in South Africa generally and the Eastern Cape Province in particular. In the process, socio-economic development and transformation in the Eastern Cape and South Africa as a whole will be advanced. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the extent to which the various determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) influence the investment promotion strategy (IPS) used by the CDC, and how these determinants can be used in the IPS to increase the number of signed investors at the CDC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital
- Authors: Hendricks, Janine Jolene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11058 , vital:26881
- Description: Health care professionals play a pivotal role in contributing towards the sustainability of a healthy economy and the standard of quality health care. It is therefore important that organisations understand what influences the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals as it could have an impact on their motivational levels and ultimately the quality of health care that is provided. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of job satisfaction amongst health care professionals in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. Research for this study included a literature review to define what job satisfaction is and to establish a theoretical foundation to identify the factors that influence job satisfaction. Various motivational theories were explored after which Herzberg’s two-factor theory was identified to serve as a theoretical basis for investigating the job content and organisational factors that influence job satisfaction. Selected demographic factors that could possibly influence levels of job satisfaction were also identified. An empirical study, consisting of a survey with a questionnaire as measuring instrument, was conducted amongst 146 health care professionals at a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. The purpose of the questionnaire was to determine the extent to which job content factors and organisational factors that were associated with job satisfaction were present in the jobs of health care professionals in state hospitals. In addition, the purpose was also to determine whether selected demographic variables had an influence on the responses provided to the factors that were associated with job satisfaction and the job satisfaction levels of the target group. The major findings of the study indicated that all job content and organisational factors had an influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital. Three factors namely Achievement, Responsibility and Work itself were identified to have a significant positive influence on the job satisfaction levels. Relationships between the demographic variables and the job content and organisational factors were identified. Work itself, Responsibility and Achievement were the top three factors whilst leadership/supervision, Human Resource systems and policies and Remuneration and benefits were the bottom three factors in terms of presence in the organisation and influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals. Safety aspects, work environment standards, availability of resources, remuneration and benefits were amongst the major concerns highlighted. The job content factors were identified to be overall more present than the organisational factors. Recommendations were suggested to address the areas of concern that were highlighted in this study in order to ensure high levels of job satisfaction amongst the health care professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Hendricks, Janine Jolene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11058 , vital:26881
- Description: Health care professionals play a pivotal role in contributing towards the sustainability of a healthy economy and the standard of quality health care. It is therefore important that organisations understand what influences the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals as it could have an impact on their motivational levels and ultimately the quality of health care that is provided. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of job satisfaction amongst health care professionals in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. Research for this study included a literature review to define what job satisfaction is and to establish a theoretical foundation to identify the factors that influence job satisfaction. Various motivational theories were explored after which Herzberg’s two-factor theory was identified to serve as a theoretical basis for investigating the job content and organisational factors that influence job satisfaction. Selected demographic factors that could possibly influence levels of job satisfaction were also identified. An empirical study, consisting of a survey with a questionnaire as measuring instrument, was conducted amongst 146 health care professionals at a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. The purpose of the questionnaire was to determine the extent to which job content factors and organisational factors that were associated with job satisfaction were present in the jobs of health care professionals in state hospitals. In addition, the purpose was also to determine whether selected demographic variables had an influence on the responses provided to the factors that were associated with job satisfaction and the job satisfaction levels of the target group. The major findings of the study indicated that all job content and organisational factors had an influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital. Three factors namely Achievement, Responsibility and Work itself were identified to have a significant positive influence on the job satisfaction levels. Relationships between the demographic variables and the job content and organisational factors were identified. Work itself, Responsibility and Achievement were the top three factors whilst leadership/supervision, Human Resource systems and policies and Remuneration and benefits were the bottom three factors in terms of presence in the organisation and influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals. Safety aspects, work environment standards, availability of resources, remuneration and benefits were amongst the major concerns highlighted. The job content factors were identified to be overall more present than the organisational factors. Recommendations were suggested to address the areas of concern that were highlighted in this study in order to ensure high levels of job satisfaction amongst the health care professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Key factors required by purchasing and supply departments in the automotive manufacturing industry
- Authors: Howell, Jean Karin
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business logistics -- Management Manufacturing industries Industrial procurement -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10971 , vital:26863
- Description: The main research problem addressed in this study was to determine the key factors required by purchasing and supply departments in the automotive manufacturing industry to be efficient and effective. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to identify five sub-objectives which were, firstly, to determine the extent to which the purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry believe that certain key factors in pricing, quality and supplier management are required to achieve excellence. Secondly, to identify if the purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry actually implement the key factors on pricing, quality and supplier management in practice. Thirdly, to determine if there are any additional factors other than these key factors that business firms regard as key factors to be classified as worldclass purchasing and supply departments. Fourthly, to analyse why purchasing and supply departments in the automotive manufacturing industry do not always implement these key factors. Lastly, to identify any other factors that could have a significant negative impact on the performance of purchasing and supply departments. The study commenced with an analysis and review of relevant literature from various text books, journals, publications and internet sources. The literature study covered issues such as price determination, cost management, basic negotiation strategies, managing supplier quality and the supplier base, as well as a general overview of the latest developments in purchasing and supply management in business. The purpose of the literature analysis was to establish a theoretical basis for the design of the questionnaire which was used as a research instrument in this study. A survey was conducted among selected automotive assemblers and their first and second tier manufacturing suppliers in the automotive industry. The main areas of focus in the questionnaire were pricing, quality, and supplier management. As the questions in the questionnaire related to the purchasing and supply department of a business firm, a qualified and experienced buyer in the purchasing and supply department was identified in each firm to complete the questionnaire. The empirical results from the study conducted indicated that the respondents were in strong agreement with the proposed importance of the factors of pricing, quality, and supplier management required to achieve xcellence. However, the respondents also indicated that there were various obstacles which prevented the firms from implementing these key factors. Some of the obstacles mentioned were long lead times, late deliveries from suppliers, too few competitors in the market place, supplier capacity constraints and the sustainability of suppliers. Additional obstacles that the study identified were the high workload of buyers in general, incompetent staff and insufficient manpower that affected the performance of a purchasing and supply department. The buyers were not only performing buying activities, but were also involved in logistics related activities, which increased their workload and negatively affected their performance. Lack of specialised purchasing and supply chain knowledge was identified as another obstacle to achieving excellence. The empirical study highlighted some recommendations to assist purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry to achieve excellence and become world-class departments. Examples of these recommendations are that suppliers need to be educated on how to understand their costing models and to check their own sustainability; local purchasing and supply departments require training in the purchasing skills such as incoterms, delivery times, minimum and maximum order quantity; as well as the payment terms. Buyers should be trained to become experts in their products and packaging, as well as the manufacturing process of the product they are purchasing The business firm should only employ qualified buyers who have financial and administrative skills, as well as the ability to adapt to change and work in teams. Buyers also need to master the in-house systems and work procedures involved in purchasing a product. The empirical study also identified that the majority of buyers in the automotive manufacturing industry are senior buyers, male in gender and between the ages of 40-49. The implementation of the recommendations based on the study’s empirical findings will assist in improved pricing, quality and supply management in the automotive manufacturing industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Howell, Jean Karin
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business logistics -- Management Manufacturing industries Industrial procurement -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10971 , vital:26863
- Description: The main research problem addressed in this study was to determine the key factors required by purchasing and supply departments in the automotive manufacturing industry to be efficient and effective. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to identify five sub-objectives which were, firstly, to determine the extent to which the purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry believe that certain key factors in pricing, quality and supplier management are required to achieve excellence. Secondly, to identify if the purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry actually implement the key factors on pricing, quality and supplier management in practice. Thirdly, to determine if there are any additional factors other than these key factors that business firms regard as key factors to be classified as worldclass purchasing and supply departments. Fourthly, to analyse why purchasing and supply departments in the automotive manufacturing industry do not always implement these key factors. Lastly, to identify any other factors that could have a significant negative impact on the performance of purchasing and supply departments. The study commenced with an analysis and review of relevant literature from various text books, journals, publications and internet sources. The literature study covered issues such as price determination, cost management, basic negotiation strategies, managing supplier quality and the supplier base, as well as a general overview of the latest developments in purchasing and supply management in business. The purpose of the literature analysis was to establish a theoretical basis for the design of the questionnaire which was used as a research instrument in this study. A survey was conducted among selected automotive assemblers and their first and second tier manufacturing suppliers in the automotive industry. The main areas of focus in the questionnaire were pricing, quality, and supplier management. As the questions in the questionnaire related to the purchasing and supply department of a business firm, a qualified and experienced buyer in the purchasing and supply department was identified in each firm to complete the questionnaire. The empirical results from the study conducted indicated that the respondents were in strong agreement with the proposed importance of the factors of pricing, quality, and supplier management required to achieve xcellence. However, the respondents also indicated that there were various obstacles which prevented the firms from implementing these key factors. Some of the obstacles mentioned were long lead times, late deliveries from suppliers, too few competitors in the market place, supplier capacity constraints and the sustainability of suppliers. Additional obstacles that the study identified were the high workload of buyers in general, incompetent staff and insufficient manpower that affected the performance of a purchasing and supply department. The buyers were not only performing buying activities, but were also involved in logistics related activities, which increased their workload and negatively affected their performance. Lack of specialised purchasing and supply chain knowledge was identified as another obstacle to achieving excellence. The empirical study highlighted some recommendations to assist purchasing and supply departments in the automotive industry to achieve excellence and become world-class departments. Examples of these recommendations are that suppliers need to be educated on how to understand their costing models and to check their own sustainability; local purchasing and supply departments require training in the purchasing skills such as incoterms, delivery times, minimum and maximum order quantity; as well as the payment terms. Buyers should be trained to become experts in their products and packaging, as well as the manufacturing process of the product they are purchasing The business firm should only employ qualified buyers who have financial and administrative skills, as well as the ability to adapt to change and work in teams. Buyers also need to master the in-house systems and work procedures involved in purchasing a product. The empirical study also identified that the majority of buyers in the automotive manufacturing industry are senior buyers, male in gender and between the ages of 40-49. The implementation of the recommendations based on the study’s empirical findings will assist in improved pricing, quality and supply management in the automotive manufacturing industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Knowledge and understanding of radiographers regarding supraspinatus outlet projection for shoulder impingement syndrome
- Authors: Willians, Razana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Radiography, Medical , Diagnosis, Radioscopic , Shoulder , Diagnostic imaging
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4456 , vital:20602
- Description: The shoulder is a complex anatomical structure and imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of shoulder conditions. The complexity of the shoulder’s anatomy has led to the development of multiple radiographic projections and techniques within plain film imaging with each projection intended to demonstrate specific aspects of the anatomy of the shoulder. However, reproducing the required projections can be difficult especially if radiographers are not familiar with the projections and their evaluation criteria. Literature has revealed the importance of a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of anatomy, patient positioning, beam direction and centring point, and evaluation criteria to ensure a quality projection for accurate diagnoses. The aim of the study was to determine the knowledge and understanding of radiographers with regard to the supraspinatus outlet projection (SOP) for shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) and its evaluation criteria. The inferences derived from the research findings were used to develop guidelines for a structured in-service training programme for practising radiographers to optimise their knowledge and understanding of the supraspinatus outlet projection in shoulder impingement syndrome. The proposed study followed a quantitative approach. Furthermore, a descriptive, exploratory, contextual design was employed. The research population consisted of practising radiographers working in the public and private hospitals of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The data were collected by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised of three sections. The first section requested demographic information from the participants. The second section assessed their knowledge and understanding regarding the scapular ‘Y’ and the supraspinatus outlet projections and shoulder impingement syndrome. The third section assessed their knowledge and understanding of anatomy and image evaluation/critiquing. The reliability and validity of the data collection instrument was ensured by conducting a pilot study and comparing the results with those of the main study. In addition, the expertise and guidance of a radiographer experienced in the clinical training of radiographers, the supervisor (who has twenty years’ experience in the teaching of radiographers) and a statistician was obtained. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed by means of a statistical programme and with the guidance of a statistician. The researcher ensured that the study was conducted in an ethical manner by adhering to the ethical principles of beneficence, justice and respect for persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Willians, Razana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Radiography, Medical , Diagnosis, Radioscopic , Shoulder , Diagnostic imaging
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4456 , vital:20602
- Description: The shoulder is a complex anatomical structure and imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of shoulder conditions. The complexity of the shoulder’s anatomy has led to the development of multiple radiographic projections and techniques within plain film imaging with each projection intended to demonstrate specific aspects of the anatomy of the shoulder. However, reproducing the required projections can be difficult especially if radiographers are not familiar with the projections and their evaluation criteria. Literature has revealed the importance of a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of anatomy, patient positioning, beam direction and centring point, and evaluation criteria to ensure a quality projection for accurate diagnoses. The aim of the study was to determine the knowledge and understanding of radiographers with regard to the supraspinatus outlet projection (SOP) for shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) and its evaluation criteria. The inferences derived from the research findings were used to develop guidelines for a structured in-service training programme for practising radiographers to optimise their knowledge and understanding of the supraspinatus outlet projection in shoulder impingement syndrome. The proposed study followed a quantitative approach. Furthermore, a descriptive, exploratory, contextual design was employed. The research population consisted of practising radiographers working in the public and private hospitals of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The data were collected by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised of three sections. The first section requested demographic information from the participants. The second section assessed their knowledge and understanding regarding the scapular ‘Y’ and the supraspinatus outlet projections and shoulder impingement syndrome. The third section assessed their knowledge and understanding of anatomy and image evaluation/critiquing. The reliability and validity of the data collection instrument was ensured by conducting a pilot study and comparing the results with those of the main study. In addition, the expertise and guidance of a radiographer experienced in the clinical training of radiographers, the supervisor (who has twenty years’ experience in the teaching of radiographers) and a statistician was obtained. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed by means of a statistical programme and with the guidance of a statistician. The researcher ensured that the study was conducted in an ethical manner by adhering to the ethical principles of beneficence, justice and respect for persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Knowledge management strategies in engineering organisations
- Authors: Makhaba, Thembile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3579 , vital:20444
- Description: Engineering is believed to be one of the oldest professions and it is estimated that engineering existed 10 000 centuries B.C (Before Christ). Engineering plays an important role in making the environment safer, making daily lives more convenient and also contributes to countries’ economic developments. Engineering has advanced in such a way that it is difficult to survive without some kind of engineering these days. The same as engineering, knowledge management also dates back to biblical times just after creation. Knowledge management is not only applied in organisations, but also within communities, societies, and families. Engineering organisations rely the most on past discoveries and product information (knowledge) in order to solve engineering related problems. Due to globalisation of markets and products, shortage of skills and technological advancement, knowledge has become one of the main competitive factors of many organisations. Therefore engineering organisations need to have knowledge management strategies if they are to stay competitive. Different engineering organisations might have similar knowledge management strategies or different knowledge management strategies depending on organisational size, structure and culture and service offered or product offered. Against this background, this study sought to discover what knowledge management strategies are currently implemented in engineering organisations and recommend on strategies that can be implemented and how they can be implemented. The study is based on a review of literature on engineering, engineering organisations, knowledge and knowledge management and a structured questionnaire on knowledge management in engineering organisations. The population for the study was all engineering organisation employees and the engineering organisations in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were sampled for the survey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Makhaba, Thembile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3579 , vital:20444
- Description: Engineering is believed to be one of the oldest professions and it is estimated that engineering existed 10 000 centuries B.C (Before Christ). Engineering plays an important role in making the environment safer, making daily lives more convenient and also contributes to countries’ economic developments. Engineering has advanced in such a way that it is difficult to survive without some kind of engineering these days. The same as engineering, knowledge management also dates back to biblical times just after creation. Knowledge management is not only applied in organisations, but also within communities, societies, and families. Engineering organisations rely the most on past discoveries and product information (knowledge) in order to solve engineering related problems. Due to globalisation of markets and products, shortage of skills and technological advancement, knowledge has become one of the main competitive factors of many organisations. Therefore engineering organisations need to have knowledge management strategies if they are to stay competitive. Different engineering organisations might have similar knowledge management strategies or different knowledge management strategies depending on organisational size, structure and culture and service offered or product offered. Against this background, this study sought to discover what knowledge management strategies are currently implemented in engineering organisations and recommend on strategies that can be implemented and how they can be implemented. The study is based on a review of literature on engineering, engineering organisations, knowledge and knowledge management and a structured questionnaire on knowledge management in engineering organisations. The population for the study was all engineering organisation employees and the engineering organisations in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were sampled for the survey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Legal representation at internal disciplinary enquiries: the CCMA and bargaining councils
- Authors: Webb, Brandon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Right to counsel -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10299 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021066
- Description: The right to legal representation at internal disciplinary hearings and arbitration proceedings at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), and bargaining councils, where the reason for dismissal relates to misconduct or incapacity is a topic that is raised continuously and often debated. Despite no amendments to labour legislation pertaining to the issue at hand there was however a recent Supreme Court of Appeal judgment. This judgment alters one’s view and clarifies the uncertainties that were created around Rule 25 of the CCMA rules, it also brings a different perspective to the matter, but it will however continue to ignite significant interest. There is no automatic right to legal representation at disciplinary hearings, at the CCMA, and at bargaining councils where disputes involve conduct or capacity and this is the very reason why it is a contentious matter for all parties to grapple with. The dismissal of an employee for misconduct may not be significant to the employer, but the employee’s job is his major asset, and losing his employment is a serious matter to contend with. Lawyers are said to make the process legalistic and expensive, and are blamed for causing delays in the proceedings due to their unavailability and the approach that they adopt. Allowing legal representation places individual employees and small businesses on the back foot because of the costs. Section 23(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996, provides everyone with the right to fair labour practices, and section 185 of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 gives effect to this right and specifies, amongst others, that an employee has the right not to be unfairly dismissed. At internal disciplinary hearings, the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 is silent as to what the employee’s rights are with regards to legal representation and the general rule is that legal representation is not permitted, unless the employer’s disciplinary code and procedure or the employee’s contract allows for it, but usually an employee may only be represented by a fellow employee or trade union representative, but not by a legal representative. In MEC: Department of Finance, Economic Affairs and Tourism, Northern Province v Mahumani, the Supreme Court of Appeal held that there exists no right in terms of the common law to legal representation in tribunals other than in courts of law. However, both the common law and PAJA concede that in certain situations it may be unfair to deny a party legal representation. Currently the position in South Africa is that an employee facing disciplinary proceedings can put forward a request for legal representation and the chairperson of the disciplinary hearing will have the discretion to allow or refuse the request. In Hamata v Chairperson, Peninsula Technikon Internal Disciplinary Committee, the Supreme Court of Appeal found that the South African law does not recognise an absolute right to legal representation in fora other than courts of law, and a constitutional right to legal representation only arises in respect of criminal matters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Webb, Brandon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Right to counsel -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10299 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021066
- Description: The right to legal representation at internal disciplinary hearings and arbitration proceedings at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), and bargaining councils, where the reason for dismissal relates to misconduct or incapacity is a topic that is raised continuously and often debated. Despite no amendments to labour legislation pertaining to the issue at hand there was however a recent Supreme Court of Appeal judgment. This judgment alters one’s view and clarifies the uncertainties that were created around Rule 25 of the CCMA rules, it also brings a different perspective to the matter, but it will however continue to ignite significant interest. There is no automatic right to legal representation at disciplinary hearings, at the CCMA, and at bargaining councils where disputes involve conduct or capacity and this is the very reason why it is a contentious matter for all parties to grapple with. The dismissal of an employee for misconduct may not be significant to the employer, but the employee’s job is his major asset, and losing his employment is a serious matter to contend with. Lawyers are said to make the process legalistic and expensive, and are blamed for causing delays in the proceedings due to their unavailability and the approach that they adopt. Allowing legal representation places individual employees and small businesses on the back foot because of the costs. Section 23(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996, provides everyone with the right to fair labour practices, and section 185 of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 gives effect to this right and specifies, amongst others, that an employee has the right not to be unfairly dismissed. At internal disciplinary hearings, the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 is silent as to what the employee’s rights are with regards to legal representation and the general rule is that legal representation is not permitted, unless the employer’s disciplinary code and procedure or the employee’s contract allows for it, but usually an employee may only be represented by a fellow employee or trade union representative, but not by a legal representative. In MEC: Department of Finance, Economic Affairs and Tourism, Northern Province v Mahumani, the Supreme Court of Appeal held that there exists no right in terms of the common law to legal representation in tribunals other than in courts of law. However, both the common law and PAJA concede that in certain situations it may be unfair to deny a party legal representation. Currently the position in South Africa is that an employee facing disciplinary proceedings can put forward a request for legal representation and the chairperson of the disciplinary hearing will have the discretion to allow or refuse the request. In Hamata v Chairperson, Peninsula Technikon Internal Disciplinary Committee, the Supreme Court of Appeal found that the South African law does not recognise an absolute right to legal representation in fora other than courts of law, and a constitutional right to legal representation only arises in respect of criminal matters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Lived experiences of professional nurses caring for mechanically ventilated patients
- Authors: Else, Liana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Respiratory intensive care , Respiratory therapy , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Artificial respiration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8295 , vital:26320
- Description: Critical care nursing is a speciality that continues to evolve and transform. Critical care nurses of the 21st century routinely care for the complex, critically ill patient, integrating sophisticated technology with the accompanying psychosocial challenges and the ethical conflicts associated with critical illness – while, at the same time, addressing the needs and concerns of the family. Providing nursing care in such a dynamic and fast-track unit can pose various challenges for the critical care nurse. Professional nurses are the backbone of any health-care system. The quality of nursing directly affects the patients’ outcomes, and nursing care must therefore be rendered meticulously. Mechanical ventilator support is routinely needed for critically ill adults in these care units and is also a common therapy in sub-acute and long-term care settings. The care of the mechanically ventilated patient is the core of a professional nurse`s practice in the critical care unit. The mechanically ventilated patient presents many challenges for the professional nurse, while the critical care unit poses as a stressful environment for the professional nurse as well as the patient. The objectives of this study therefore were to explore and describe the lived experiences of professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated patients, and to develop recommendations to support professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated patients. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was utilised. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews and analysed according to the framework provided by Tesch. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of professional nurses working in a critical care environment. Guba’s model was utilised to verify data and to ensure trustworthiness of the study. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout this research study. With the analysed data, recommendations were to support professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Else, Liana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Respiratory intensive care , Respiratory therapy , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Artificial respiration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8295 , vital:26320
- Description: Critical care nursing is a speciality that continues to evolve and transform. Critical care nurses of the 21st century routinely care for the complex, critically ill patient, integrating sophisticated technology with the accompanying psychosocial challenges and the ethical conflicts associated with critical illness – while, at the same time, addressing the needs and concerns of the family. Providing nursing care in such a dynamic and fast-track unit can pose various challenges for the critical care nurse. Professional nurses are the backbone of any health-care system. The quality of nursing directly affects the patients’ outcomes, and nursing care must therefore be rendered meticulously. Mechanical ventilator support is routinely needed for critically ill adults in these care units and is also a common therapy in sub-acute and long-term care settings. The care of the mechanically ventilated patient is the core of a professional nurse`s practice in the critical care unit. The mechanically ventilated patient presents many challenges for the professional nurse, while the critical care unit poses as a stressful environment for the professional nurse as well as the patient. The objectives of this study therefore were to explore and describe the lived experiences of professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated patients, and to develop recommendations to support professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated patients. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was utilised. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews and analysed according to the framework provided by Tesch. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of professional nurses working in a critical care environment. Guba’s model was utilised to verify data and to ensure trustworthiness of the study. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout this research study. With the analysed data, recommendations were to support professional nurses while caring for mechanically ventilated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Long term effects of temperature and humidity on lignocellulosic fibres and composites
- Authors: Molaba, Tshepiso Princess
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Lignocellulose Fibrous composites Textile fabrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10276 , vital:26648
- Description: The study deals with the chemical and flame retardant (FR) treatment of woven flax fabric and preparation and characterization of flax reinforced phenolic composites. Sheets of flax fabric were subjected to chemical treatments using NaOH and silane coupling agents. A phosphate-based flame retardant (DAP) was applied to decrease the flammability of the flax fabric. The effect of the chemical treatments and FR treatments on the thermal and flammability properties of the fabric and composites was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vertical flame resistance test and cone calorimeter. The mechanical properties of the flax fabric and composites, before and after environmental ageing, were investigated. Ageing studies were carried out by exposing the samples in an environmental chamber at specified conditions for two weeks. TGA results showed that the treatment of the fabric with FR shifts the decomposition temperature to lower level and increases the char residue. Vertical flame resistance testing showed that FR treatment of the flax fabric improved the flammability properties. There was no after flame and afterglow observed for FR treated flax fabric due to self-extinguishment after removal of the flame. Flax Fabric without FR burned completely and there was no result for the char length due to the complete destruction of the fabric. The FR treatment, however, seemed to have had a negative effect on the tensile strength of the flax fabric. This was further intensified upon exposure of FR treated flax fabric to high temperatures during ageing studies which drastically reduced the tensile strength by more than 90%, and the flax fabric were found to be brittle and darker in visual appearance. TGA results of flax/phenolic composites showed that for composites containing chemically treated and FR treated flax fabric the decomposition temperatures shifted to lower temperatures; however there was no significant difference in the amount of char residue. Untreated flax/phenolic composites exhibited the lowest char residue. Cone calorimeter results showed that the peak heat release rate (PHRR), smoke production rate (SPR) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission rate was reduced for the flax/phenolic composite produced using FR treated flax fabric. The tensile strength of these composites was reduced while there was an increase in modulus value. Exposure of the FR treated composites to high temperatures further reduced the tensile strength and increased the E-modulus. Both FR treated and untreated composites changed in colour and the FR treated composites were found to be brittle after exposure to high temperatures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Molaba, Tshepiso Princess
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Lignocellulose Fibrous composites Textile fabrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10276 , vital:26648
- Description: The study deals with the chemical and flame retardant (FR) treatment of woven flax fabric and preparation and characterization of flax reinforced phenolic composites. Sheets of flax fabric were subjected to chemical treatments using NaOH and silane coupling agents. A phosphate-based flame retardant (DAP) was applied to decrease the flammability of the flax fabric. The effect of the chemical treatments and FR treatments on the thermal and flammability properties of the fabric and composites was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vertical flame resistance test and cone calorimeter. The mechanical properties of the flax fabric and composites, before and after environmental ageing, were investigated. Ageing studies were carried out by exposing the samples in an environmental chamber at specified conditions for two weeks. TGA results showed that the treatment of the fabric with FR shifts the decomposition temperature to lower level and increases the char residue. Vertical flame resistance testing showed that FR treatment of the flax fabric improved the flammability properties. There was no after flame and afterglow observed for FR treated flax fabric due to self-extinguishment after removal of the flame. Flax Fabric without FR burned completely and there was no result for the char length due to the complete destruction of the fabric. The FR treatment, however, seemed to have had a negative effect on the tensile strength of the flax fabric. This was further intensified upon exposure of FR treated flax fabric to high temperatures during ageing studies which drastically reduced the tensile strength by more than 90%, and the flax fabric were found to be brittle and darker in visual appearance. TGA results of flax/phenolic composites showed that for composites containing chemically treated and FR treated flax fabric the decomposition temperatures shifted to lower temperatures; however there was no significant difference in the amount of char residue. Untreated flax/phenolic composites exhibited the lowest char residue. Cone calorimeter results showed that the peak heat release rate (PHRR), smoke production rate (SPR) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission rate was reduced for the flax/phenolic composite produced using FR treated flax fabric. The tensile strength of these composites was reduced while there was an increase in modulus value. Exposure of the FR treated composites to high temperatures further reduced the tensile strength and increased the E-modulus. Both FR treated and untreated composites changed in colour and the FR treated composites were found to be brittle after exposure to high temperatures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing conflict in the library information services of selected universities
- Authors: Dos Santos, Desiree
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic libraries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Administration , Technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Information services , Academic librarians -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8325 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020307
- Description: Academic libraries are not immune to conflict; various important external and internal factors underlie conflict. Change, both external and internal, leads to interpersonal conflict amongst librarians which is caused by differing goals, policies, rules and decisions. Technology has been the major change in the digital era and academic libraries embarking on meeting the needs of the users have to manage change. It is important to understand how change evolves in order to manage it and the faster the change, the more conflict can be expected. The main purpose of this study is to investigate change and conflict in library and information services. The study collected data from two selected academic libraries - Fort Hare and Walter Sisulu. The reason for this choice is that the two libraries are from the Eastern Border region and strategically located to serve the deep rural and poverty-stricken communities. Both libraries are from merged institutions, under-developed and faced with change and conflict. Data was gathered by means of a literature study and face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with six participants in each library: two librarians in senior, two middle management and two librarians occupying lower level positions. Purposive sampling was used to select participants who fit the criteria and who could contribute to the study. The findings reveal that library staff experience stress and conflict because of external and internal factors of change impacting the academic environment. The study generated important findings which are capable of guiding academic library management on how to manage change effectively in the „new‟ electronic environment. The findings show that understanding conflict also equips management with strategies and techniques to manage conflict effectively. This study offers valuable insights into the lived conflict experiences and perceptions of librarians and sheds much light on the role of conflict management in these environments. This study will contribute to the management of conflict in information services in university libraries and will be an innovative application of conflict theory to the library discipline.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Dos Santos, Desiree
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic libraries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Administration , Technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Information services , Academic librarians -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8325 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020307
- Description: Academic libraries are not immune to conflict; various important external and internal factors underlie conflict. Change, both external and internal, leads to interpersonal conflict amongst librarians which is caused by differing goals, policies, rules and decisions. Technology has been the major change in the digital era and academic libraries embarking on meeting the needs of the users have to manage change. It is important to understand how change evolves in order to manage it and the faster the change, the more conflict can be expected. The main purpose of this study is to investigate change and conflict in library and information services. The study collected data from two selected academic libraries - Fort Hare and Walter Sisulu. The reason for this choice is that the two libraries are from the Eastern Border region and strategically located to serve the deep rural and poverty-stricken communities. Both libraries are from merged institutions, under-developed and faced with change and conflict. Data was gathered by means of a literature study and face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with six participants in each library: two librarians in senior, two middle management and two librarians occupying lower level positions. Purposive sampling was used to select participants who fit the criteria and who could contribute to the study. The findings reveal that library staff experience stress and conflict because of external and internal factors of change impacting the academic environment. The study generated important findings which are capable of guiding academic library management on how to manage change effectively in the „new‟ electronic environment. The findings show that understanding conflict also equips management with strategies and techniques to manage conflict effectively. This study offers valuable insights into the lived conflict experiences and perceptions of librarians and sheds much light on the role of conflict management in these environments. This study will contribute to the management of conflict in information services in university libraries and will be an innovative application of conflict theory to the library discipline.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Managing stakeholders involvement in website communication: a comparative study of Lesotho and South African national websites
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mota, Molikuoa Adolphine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Government Web sites -- Lesotho , Government Web sites -- South Africa , Electronic government information -- Lesotho , Electronic government information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3529 , vital:20439
- Description: Engagement of stakeholders in government website communication has emerged as an important strategy that can build trust, improve transparency and strengthen loyalty between governments and their citizens. This is because websites provide access to a broader spectrum, offer unlimited storage of information and rapid feedback. This main purpose of the study therefore was to find out how the Lesotho and South African national governments utilise their websites to engage stakeholder’s in websites communication for maintaining and building mutual relationships. The literature review for this study covered the role of public relations in government, different kinds of governments’ stakeholders and the importance of engaging stakeholders in website communication for relationship building and maintenance of such relationships. The methodology that was employed involved analysis of twenty websites which were selected using purposive sampling technique. Coding sheets were designed and used to collect data based on the three principles of dialogic communication namely: Ease of interface, Generation of return visits, Usefulness of information and the two models of communication which are One-way communication and Two-way communication. The results revealed limited efforts for stakeholder’s engagement in both Lesotho and South African government ministries and made recommendations on how this challenge can be addressed. The study concluded that the two countries can improve stakeholders’ participation and engagement in websites communication by aligning their websites with the three principles of dialogic communication and two models of communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Margaret Hilda Thatcher: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Marx, Milisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4548 , vital:20616
- Description: Psychobiographies typically explore and describe historically significant, extraordinary and enigmatic individuals' psychological development through the lens of psychological theory. The primary aim of this psychobiographical study was to explore and describe the developmental life stages of Margaret Hilda Thatcher (1925 - 2013) through the application of Erik Erikson's theory of Psychosocial Development. Erikson's theory takes a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to the lifelong development of the individual, emphasising ego development. A secondary objective was to clarify the propositions of Erikson's theory by applying it to Thatcher's life. Margaret Thatcher was the leader of the Conservative Party in Great Britain and was the first ever female British Prime Minister. As a political leader, she was driven by conviction and regarded as controversial in that she divided the opinion of the British people. She served as Prime Minister for three consecutive terms and was eventually ousted by her peers. After leaving office, she received the title of Baroness Thatcher of Kesteven and later became a member of the highest order of knighthood in England: The Order of the Garter. Psychobiographical research is qualitative and follows a single, case study approach. Through using a purposive sampling strategy, Thatcher was selected as a research subject on the basis of interest value and uniqueness. Data were selected from primary and secondary sources, enhancing the validity of the study, and were analysed according to Alexander's nine identifiers of salience within the conceptual framework derived from Erikson's theory. When considering the findings of the research, it became evident that Margaret Thatcher's development coincides with those constructs proposed in Erikson's theory, and thus emphasised its value in understanding human development. The findings from this psychobiographical study contributed to the understanding of Thatcher's life and are likely to stimulate further research in psychology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Marx, Milisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4548 , vital:20616
- Description: Psychobiographies typically explore and describe historically significant, extraordinary and enigmatic individuals' psychological development through the lens of psychological theory. The primary aim of this psychobiographical study was to explore and describe the developmental life stages of Margaret Hilda Thatcher (1925 - 2013) through the application of Erik Erikson's theory of Psychosocial Development. Erikson's theory takes a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to the lifelong development of the individual, emphasising ego development. A secondary objective was to clarify the propositions of Erikson's theory by applying it to Thatcher's life. Margaret Thatcher was the leader of the Conservative Party in Great Britain and was the first ever female British Prime Minister. As a political leader, she was driven by conviction and regarded as controversial in that she divided the opinion of the British people. She served as Prime Minister for three consecutive terms and was eventually ousted by her peers. After leaving office, she received the title of Baroness Thatcher of Kesteven and later became a member of the highest order of knighthood in England: The Order of the Garter. Psychobiographical research is qualitative and follows a single, case study approach. Through using a purposive sampling strategy, Thatcher was selected as a research subject on the basis of interest value and uniqueness. Data were selected from primary and secondary sources, enhancing the validity of the study, and were analysed according to Alexander's nine identifiers of salience within the conceptual framework derived from Erikson's theory. When considering the findings of the research, it became evident that Margaret Thatcher's development coincides with those constructs proposed in Erikson's theory, and thus emphasised its value in understanding human development. The findings from this psychobiographical study contributed to the understanding of Thatcher's life and are likely to stimulate further research in psychology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Midwives' experiences of high stress levels due to emergency childbirths in Namibia Regional Hospital
- Authors: Ndikwetepo, Monika Ndaudika
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Medical personnel -- Job stress -- Namibia , Childbirth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10073 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021162
- Description: Many midwives throughout the world experienced high stress levels when they deal with emergency childbirths. Midwifery professionals experience certain unique stressors, such as midwives being responsible for the care of women when they are giving birth. Complications of childbirth may occur during labour leading to the life of the baby and the mother being threatened. Situations such as this leave midwives experiencing high levels of stress for which they often do not have effective coping mechanisms. When the stress is not managed, it may lead to burnout. When burnout occurs the midwives present with physical and psychological symptoms of stress, grief for the loss and lack of motivation, which results in staff turnover and a fear of working in a maternity ward. Consequently, patient care may be compromised as some midwives became apathetic and develop unacceptable attitudes toward their patients. Such behavior led to poor work performances, maternity services that are not woman-friendly and women seeing the maternity ward as a place where they are treated in rude and unfriendly manner which increased the chances of adverse childbirth outcomes. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives who have to cope with stress associated with emergency childbirths. This information was used to develop the guidelines to help midwives to cope with the high stress associated with emergency childbirths. The researcher used a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The study was explorative, as little was known on this topic in the Namibian context and it was also descriptive and contextual. Purposive and convenient sampling was used to select the research sample. The research population was all the midwives working in the maternity ward of a Namibian regional hospital, who met the inclusion criteria. Data gathering was done using semi-structured interviews. Once data saturation occurred, interviewing stopped. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. An independent coder assisted with the coding process to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings. Literature control was done after data collection to support and strengthen the study’s findings. Trustworthiness, as suggested by using Lincoln & Guba’s model of trustworthiness, included truth-value/credibility, applicability/transferability, consistency/dependability and neutrality/conformability was implemented. Ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice were ensured by obtaining permission to conduct the research from relevant authorities and from University structures, obtaining consent from the participants before the interviews, voluntary participation and right to withdraw from the study, privacy, confidentiality and dissemination of the results. Three main themes and sub-themes were identified namely: Midwives experienced significant stressors associated with emergency childbirth situations. Midwives experienced mixed emotions about dealing with emergency childbirth situations Midwives shared their views regarding their support needs associated with emergency childbirth situations. Recommendations for nursing education, clinical midwifery and for further research were made. Four guidelines were developed based on the study findings as well as literature related to these findings, to help the midwives to cope with high stress levels associated with emergency childbirths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ndikwetepo, Monika Ndaudika
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Medical personnel -- Job stress -- Namibia , Childbirth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10073 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021162
- Description: Many midwives throughout the world experienced high stress levels when they deal with emergency childbirths. Midwifery professionals experience certain unique stressors, such as midwives being responsible for the care of women when they are giving birth. Complications of childbirth may occur during labour leading to the life of the baby and the mother being threatened. Situations such as this leave midwives experiencing high levels of stress for which they often do not have effective coping mechanisms. When the stress is not managed, it may lead to burnout. When burnout occurs the midwives present with physical and psychological symptoms of stress, grief for the loss and lack of motivation, which results in staff turnover and a fear of working in a maternity ward. Consequently, patient care may be compromised as some midwives became apathetic and develop unacceptable attitudes toward their patients. Such behavior led to poor work performances, maternity services that are not woman-friendly and women seeing the maternity ward as a place where they are treated in rude and unfriendly manner which increased the chances of adverse childbirth outcomes. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives who have to cope with stress associated with emergency childbirths. This information was used to develop the guidelines to help midwives to cope with the high stress associated with emergency childbirths. The researcher used a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The study was explorative, as little was known on this topic in the Namibian context and it was also descriptive and contextual. Purposive and convenient sampling was used to select the research sample. The research population was all the midwives working in the maternity ward of a Namibian regional hospital, who met the inclusion criteria. Data gathering was done using semi-structured interviews. Once data saturation occurred, interviewing stopped. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. An independent coder assisted with the coding process to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings. Literature control was done after data collection to support and strengthen the study’s findings. Trustworthiness, as suggested by using Lincoln & Guba’s model of trustworthiness, included truth-value/credibility, applicability/transferability, consistency/dependability and neutrality/conformability was implemented. Ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy and justice were ensured by obtaining permission to conduct the research from relevant authorities and from University structures, obtaining consent from the participants before the interviews, voluntary participation and right to withdraw from the study, privacy, confidentiality and dissemination of the results. Three main themes and sub-themes were identified namely: Midwives experienced significant stressors associated with emergency childbirth situations. Midwives experienced mixed emotions about dealing with emergency childbirth situations Midwives shared their views regarding their support needs associated with emergency childbirth situations. Recommendations for nursing education, clinical midwifery and for further research were made. Four guidelines were developed based on the study findings as well as literature related to these findings, to help the midwives to cope with high stress levels associated with emergency childbirths.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Midwives' experiences regarding the utilization of partographs in a Namibian Regional Hospital
- Authors: Fernandes, Diina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021158
- Description: Labour has been characterized as the most dangerous journey a woman undertakes. The reason being, that although it is a natural process, many labouring women suffer complications during labour and childbirth including prolonged or obstructed labour. These complications can result in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. The partograph is a monitoring tool that can provide a continuous pictorial overview and is essential to monitor and manage labour. It is recommended by the WHO for use universally by midwives while monitoring labour. However partographs are poorly utilized and most parameters on the partograph are not monitored and findings after reviewing a labouring woman are not documented on the partograph. It is unclear how midwives working in Namibian Health services experience and utilize the partograph during the monitoring of a woman in labour. These may be the factors that hinder the effective utilization of the partograph. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives regarding the utilization of the partograph for monitoring a labouring woman in a Namibian regional hospital in order to develop guidelines based on the findings to improve the use of the partograph by midwives in order to improve the management of labour. The research design was qualitative, descriptive, explorative and contextual in nature. The research population consisted of midwives working in a regional hospital in Namibia. A purposive and convenient sampling method was used to select participants. Specific inclusion criteria were met and consent was obtained from the participants and from the Regional Health Directorate Management of the hospital where the research was conducted. Interviews were conducted by an independent interviewer within the Department of Health to ensure an unbiased viewpoint. Data were collected by means of semi-structured in depth interviews with a guide, using an audio tape recorder. Field notes were used to record non- verbal communication. As soon as data were saturated, the interviews were stopped. They were then transcribed, verbatim and analysed using the Tesch’s approach as described in (Creswell, 2009:186). The service of an independent coder was utilized to ensure trustworthiness. Trustworthiness was further ensured by using the strategies suggested by Lincoln and Guba’s model, namely credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were honoured throughout by adhering to ethical principles during the study. These included ensuring that the participants` rights were respected, they were not harmed and fairness were ensured. On completion of the data analysis a literature control was conducted and existing literature was compared to the findings in order to identify similarities and differences and to verify whether the literature supported the findings. Four main themes that emerged during data analysis are: Theme 1.Midwives found it a positive experience to use the partograph when caring for a woman in labour. Theme 2. When a midwife experienced problems in using the partograph, it may lead to detrimental outcomes. Theme 3. Utilizing the partograph evoked differing emotions in midwives. Theme 4. Midwives` knowledge and skills in the utilization of the partograph should be updated regularly. By describing the lived experienced of midwives in the maternity ward on the use of the partograph, the midwives had a positive attitude to using the partograph, but they also found it difficult to utilize the instrument as was directed by the (WHO) due to challenges experienced such as: unrealistic staff/patient ratio, shortage of staff, time consuming, insufficient knowledge and skills among midwives and lack of appropriate equipment. There is a specific need to prevent further negative emotions by addressing the challenges experienced. Based on the findings, guidelines for partograph utilization which aimed at improving the midwifery care were developed. Recommendations were made regarding midwifery education, clinical midwifery care and midwifery research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Fernandes, Diina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Midwifery -- Namibia , Labor (Obstetrics) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021158
- Description: Labour has been characterized as the most dangerous journey a woman undertakes. The reason being, that although it is a natural process, many labouring women suffer complications during labour and childbirth including prolonged or obstructed labour. These complications can result in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. The partograph is a monitoring tool that can provide a continuous pictorial overview and is essential to monitor and manage labour. It is recommended by the WHO for use universally by midwives while monitoring labour. However partographs are poorly utilized and most parameters on the partograph are not monitored and findings after reviewing a labouring woman are not documented on the partograph. It is unclear how midwives working in Namibian Health services experience and utilize the partograph during the monitoring of a woman in labour. These may be the factors that hinder the effective utilization of the partograph. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of midwives regarding the utilization of the partograph for monitoring a labouring woman in a Namibian regional hospital in order to develop guidelines based on the findings to improve the use of the partograph by midwives in order to improve the management of labour. The research design was qualitative, descriptive, explorative and contextual in nature. The research population consisted of midwives working in a regional hospital in Namibia. A purposive and convenient sampling method was used to select participants. Specific inclusion criteria were met and consent was obtained from the participants and from the Regional Health Directorate Management of the hospital where the research was conducted. Interviews were conducted by an independent interviewer within the Department of Health to ensure an unbiased viewpoint. Data were collected by means of semi-structured in depth interviews with a guide, using an audio tape recorder. Field notes were used to record non- verbal communication. As soon as data were saturated, the interviews were stopped. They were then transcribed, verbatim and analysed using the Tesch’s approach as described in (Creswell, 2009:186). The service of an independent coder was utilized to ensure trustworthiness. Trustworthiness was further ensured by using the strategies suggested by Lincoln and Guba’s model, namely credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were honoured throughout by adhering to ethical principles during the study. These included ensuring that the participants` rights were respected, they were not harmed and fairness were ensured. On completion of the data analysis a literature control was conducted and existing literature was compared to the findings in order to identify similarities and differences and to verify whether the literature supported the findings. Four main themes that emerged during data analysis are: Theme 1.Midwives found it a positive experience to use the partograph when caring for a woman in labour. Theme 2. When a midwife experienced problems in using the partograph, it may lead to detrimental outcomes. Theme 3. Utilizing the partograph evoked differing emotions in midwives. Theme 4. Midwives` knowledge and skills in the utilization of the partograph should be updated regularly. By describing the lived experienced of midwives in the maternity ward on the use of the partograph, the midwives had a positive attitude to using the partograph, but they also found it difficult to utilize the instrument as was directed by the (WHO) due to challenges experienced such as: unrealistic staff/patient ratio, shortage of staff, time consuming, insufficient knowledge and skills among midwives and lack of appropriate equipment. There is a specific need to prevent further negative emotions by addressing the challenges experienced. Based on the findings, guidelines for partograph utilization which aimed at improving the midwifery care were developed. Recommendations were made regarding midwifery education, clinical midwifery care and midwifery research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Mindset change as a mechanism for enhancing the employability of low-skilled persons
- Authors: Warner, Tarryn-Lee
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Employability , Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4332 , vital:20586
- Description: This research paper investigates whether a holistic approach to skills training which challenges cultural norms and perceptions regarding the relationship between work and self-reliance, as employed by Siya-Sebenza, results in a change of mindset and work ethic. This paper evaluates the strength of this holistic approach to skills training and assesses whether it has a marked effect on the mindset and attitudes of graduates regarding issues of self-reliance, motivation and understanding their role in their employment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Warner, Tarryn-Lee
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Employability , Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4332 , vital:20586
- Description: This research paper investigates whether a holistic approach to skills training which challenges cultural norms and perceptions regarding the relationship between work and self-reliance, as employed by Siya-Sebenza, results in a change of mindset and work ethic. This paper evaluates the strength of this holistic approach to skills training and assesses whether it has a marked effect on the mindset and attitudes of graduates regarding issues of self-reliance, motivation and understanding their role in their employment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Music education in the foundation phase
- Authors: Beer, Luzaan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Music -- Instruction and study -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8525 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020302
- Description: Music education is an essential aspect of education. The South African school curriculum for the Creative Arts combines dance, drama, music and the visual arts. The curriculum uses a combination of the theories of Carl Orff, Emile Jaques-Dalcroze and Zoltán Kodály. Each of these music theorists and educationists have their own distinctive approach to teaching music. This study explores the theories of music education of Carl Orff, Emile Jaques-Dalcroze and Zoltán Kodály. These theories are applied in a critical analysis of both the South African curriculum and the curriculum of New South Wales. The researcher developed music activities to address the shortcomings of both the South African curriculum and the music texts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Beer, Luzaan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Music -- Instruction and study -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8525 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020302
- Description: Music education is an essential aspect of education. The South African school curriculum for the Creative Arts combines dance, drama, music and the visual arts. The curriculum uses a combination of the theories of Carl Orff, Emile Jaques-Dalcroze and Zoltán Kodály. Each of these music theorists and educationists have their own distinctive approach to teaching music. This study explores the theories of music education of Carl Orff, Emile Jaques-Dalcroze and Zoltán Kodály. These theories are applied in a critical analysis of both the South African curriculum and the curriculum of New South Wales. The researcher developed music activities to address the shortcomings of both the South African curriculum and the music texts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Narratives of women victims of GBV-POWA Johannesburg women's writing project, 2008-2013
- Authors: Makota, Gillian
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Women -- Crimes against -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6432 , vital:21084
- Description: Gender-based Violence (GBV) has emerged as a major issue on the international human rights agenda and a major public health challenge throughout the world. A large proportion of the violence committed against women is perpetrated by their intimate partners. According to the World Health Organization’s Multi-country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence, it is estimated that approximately 10% to 60% of married women have experienced physical intimate-partner violence during their lifetimes (Garcia-Moreno, Jansen, Ellsberg, Heise and Watts, 2006). Once the extent of GBV in South Africa was realised interventions were put in place to address the issue and the Domestic Violence Act No 116 of 1998 (DVA) was instituted by the South African government, aimed at protecting and combating violence against women. The notion of ending GBV was also acknowledged by the late former South African president, Nelson Mandela (Nelson Mandela’s first State of the Nation Address in Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, 24 May 1994) said: “Freedom cannot be achieved unless the women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression." (www.ehow.com, first accessed 9 August, 2013). People Opposing Woman Abuse (POWA), a Johannesburg-based non-governmental organization (NGO), initiated interventions to address GBV. POWA offers services to women in South Africa (SA) who have experienced domestic violence, sexual harassment or rape and other forms of violence, by aiming to creating a safe society where women are powerful, self –reliant and respected. Driven by the need to create a collective space through which women could share their stories of surviving GBV, POWA established the Women’s Writing Project (WPP) in 2005. The project publishes annual anthologies with specific themes for a particular year, giving women survivors a platform and opportunity to tell their stories as an important part of the healing process. Though the first anthology was published in 2005, this thesis only provides an analysis of the POWA WWP anthologies from 2008-2013. The notion that narratives can be used as therapeutic tools had prompted the researcher to use existing narratives as a basis to investigate GBV. The study is a qualitative, interpretive study, using content analysis as a method and working within the framework of the Ecological model (1999:18) which talks about the multi-faceted nature of GBV. A total of 65 English narratives, 13 per anthology, by survivors of GBV were used and common themes that emerged were identified to obtain accounts of these selected women’s perceptions, experiences and articulations on GBV. Informed by a theoretical framework consisting of Heise, Ellsberg and Gottemoeller’s Ecological model (1999:18), the USAID GBV Life cycle model (2009:15) and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) GBV health effects document (2005:23), the researcher extracted the main overarching themes which emerged from the women’s narratives. Drawing on the study’s content analysis methodology and the subsequent emerging main narrative themes, the researcher could draw certain conclusions about general similarities in the experiences and perceptions about GBV of the women who participated in POWA’s Johannesburg-based five-year Women’s Writing Project (2008-2013). The most salient of these conclusions are that the following issues are major factors contributing to GBV in the specific sample group, and by assumption also among the larger population that it represents: alcohol abuse and the absence of mother figures. Conclusions about the effects of GBV include that most women suffer from psychological health effects due to GBV experiences. Based on the selected narratives in this study the researcher could conclude that self-narrative storytelling and the recounting of traumatic experiences had therapeutic potential in the treatment and recovery of survivors of GBV. Many of the narrators said that structured self-narration and the publication of their stories had helped to construct a recovery support system not only for themselves but also for those who are possibly still suffering from the consequences of violence. In this way survivors of GBV can therapeutically construct new identities for themselves, which transcend their abuse and thereby actively participate in the construction of meaning in their lives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Makota, Gillian
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Women -- Crimes against -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6432 , vital:21084
- Description: Gender-based Violence (GBV) has emerged as a major issue on the international human rights agenda and a major public health challenge throughout the world. A large proportion of the violence committed against women is perpetrated by their intimate partners. According to the World Health Organization’s Multi-country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence, it is estimated that approximately 10% to 60% of married women have experienced physical intimate-partner violence during their lifetimes (Garcia-Moreno, Jansen, Ellsberg, Heise and Watts, 2006). Once the extent of GBV in South Africa was realised interventions were put in place to address the issue and the Domestic Violence Act No 116 of 1998 (DVA) was instituted by the South African government, aimed at protecting and combating violence against women. The notion of ending GBV was also acknowledged by the late former South African president, Nelson Mandela (Nelson Mandela’s first State of the Nation Address in Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, 24 May 1994) said: “Freedom cannot be achieved unless the women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression." (www.ehow.com, first accessed 9 August, 2013). People Opposing Woman Abuse (POWA), a Johannesburg-based non-governmental organization (NGO), initiated interventions to address GBV. POWA offers services to women in South Africa (SA) who have experienced domestic violence, sexual harassment or rape and other forms of violence, by aiming to creating a safe society where women are powerful, self –reliant and respected. Driven by the need to create a collective space through which women could share their stories of surviving GBV, POWA established the Women’s Writing Project (WPP) in 2005. The project publishes annual anthologies with specific themes for a particular year, giving women survivors a platform and opportunity to tell their stories as an important part of the healing process. Though the first anthology was published in 2005, this thesis only provides an analysis of the POWA WWP anthologies from 2008-2013. The notion that narratives can be used as therapeutic tools had prompted the researcher to use existing narratives as a basis to investigate GBV. The study is a qualitative, interpretive study, using content analysis as a method and working within the framework of the Ecological model (1999:18) which talks about the multi-faceted nature of GBV. A total of 65 English narratives, 13 per anthology, by survivors of GBV were used and common themes that emerged were identified to obtain accounts of these selected women’s perceptions, experiences and articulations on GBV. Informed by a theoretical framework consisting of Heise, Ellsberg and Gottemoeller’s Ecological model (1999:18), the USAID GBV Life cycle model (2009:15) and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) GBV health effects document (2005:23), the researcher extracted the main overarching themes which emerged from the women’s narratives. Drawing on the study’s content analysis methodology and the subsequent emerging main narrative themes, the researcher could draw certain conclusions about general similarities in the experiences and perceptions about GBV of the women who participated in POWA’s Johannesburg-based five-year Women’s Writing Project (2008-2013). The most salient of these conclusions are that the following issues are major factors contributing to GBV in the specific sample group, and by assumption also among the larger population that it represents: alcohol abuse and the absence of mother figures. Conclusions about the effects of GBV include that most women suffer from psychological health effects due to GBV experiences. Based on the selected narratives in this study the researcher could conclude that self-narrative storytelling and the recounting of traumatic experiences had therapeutic potential in the treatment and recovery of survivors of GBV. Many of the narrators said that structured self-narration and the publication of their stories had helped to construct a recovery support system not only for themselves but also for those who are possibly still suffering from the consequences of violence. In this way survivors of GBV can therapeutically construct new identities for themselves, which transcend their abuse and thereby actively participate in the construction of meaning in their lives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015