African christian parents' framing of gender and sexual identity in Duduza, Nigel
- Authors: Mkhatshwa, Puleng Charity
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gender identity -- South Africa -- Gauteng Sexual minorities -- South Africa -- Gauteng Religion and civil society -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12187 , vital:27042
- Description: This research tested the perception of Christian parents framing of gender and sexual identities in Duduza, Nigel. The researcher conducted the quantitative research based on the theoretical framework and measured it by means of variables and questions through the development of a questionnaire. The triangulation questions from the literature review were included in the questionnaire. The quantitative data collected was in the form of numbers. The literature review was completed to find out what had previously been written about the dependant variable, and to clarify and define concepts contained in the dependant variable, as well as to examine the independent variables and their elements influencing the dependant variable. The study provides the recommendation for the Christians denominations towards influencing change in the Christian parents’ framing of gender and sexual identities in Duduza, Nigel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mkhatshwa, Puleng Charity
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gender identity -- South Africa -- Gauteng Sexual minorities -- South Africa -- Gauteng Religion and civil society -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12187 , vital:27042
- Description: This research tested the perception of Christian parents framing of gender and sexual identities in Duduza, Nigel. The researcher conducted the quantitative research based on the theoretical framework and measured it by means of variables and questions through the development of a questionnaire. The triangulation questions from the literature review were included in the questionnaire. The quantitative data collected was in the form of numbers. The literature review was completed to find out what had previously been written about the dependant variable, and to clarify and define concepts contained in the dependant variable, as well as to examine the independent variables and their elements influencing the dependant variable. The study provides the recommendation for the Christians denominations towards influencing change in the Christian parents’ framing of gender and sexual identities in Duduza, Nigel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Against all odds: the effect of electoral violence on the political participation of citizens: a case study of voters in Nairobi
- Authors: Plata, Stephanie
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Political participation -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Political violence -- Kenya -- Nairobi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5589 , vital:20913
- Description: Competitive national elections can play a significant role in the consolidation process of developing and established democracies alike. Nevertheless, if not handled adequately, they have the potential to bring long-existing, existential conflict lines to the surface. This electoral conflict, becoming manifest in election violence, has the potential to shy people off from voting and negatively affect their attitude towards elections and democracy in general. The present study examined the ways in which violent electoral conflict affected the political participation and the personal attitudes towards democracy of ordinary Kenyan citizens. Kenya has experienced violent electoral conflict repeatedly since the re-introduction of competitive elections in 1992 and became one of its prime examples due to the devastating 2008 post-election clashes. In order to answer the research questions, 32 semi-structured interviews with 34 victims of electoral violence coming from four main ‘hotspot areas’ of the 2008 post-election violence as well as four expert interviews were conducted. The study finds that the experience of violent electoral conflict led to diametrically opposed reactions in the behaviour of political participation among respondents. About two-thirds of them indicated a change in their behaviour of political participation. With 33% of the respondents found to be “participating more”, this group even outnumbers its “participating less” counterpart (30%). This finding is rather surprising as the experience of electoral violence is usually associated with the tendency to shy off from political participation, not only in Kenya. Based on their attitudinal dispositions towards democracy in general and towards democracy in Kenya more specifically, as well as towards Kenyan elections, politics and politicians, a fourfold typology of Kenyan citizens was developed from the sample. It includes: the voting citizen, the resigned citizen, the passive citizen, and the active citizen. The voting citizen with no further interest in politics or political participation was found to be the most prevalent type of citizen in the sample. Attention needs to be taken towards the resigned citizen, which could, in case of further violent electoral conflict and the continuing marginalization of specific ethnic groups, cause a threat to the stabilization process of Kenya’s democracy. Contributions of this study were in designing a destination identity framework as well as in discovering the identity of the city of Nelson Mandela Bay. Directions for future studies include the possibility to conduct a qualitative study on place identity so as to obtain a more nuanced understanding of sub-identities in the city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Plata, Stephanie
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Elections -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Political participation -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Political violence -- Kenya -- Nairobi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5589 , vital:20913
- Description: Competitive national elections can play a significant role in the consolidation process of developing and established democracies alike. Nevertheless, if not handled adequately, they have the potential to bring long-existing, existential conflict lines to the surface. This electoral conflict, becoming manifest in election violence, has the potential to shy people off from voting and negatively affect their attitude towards elections and democracy in general. The present study examined the ways in which violent electoral conflict affected the political participation and the personal attitudes towards democracy of ordinary Kenyan citizens. Kenya has experienced violent electoral conflict repeatedly since the re-introduction of competitive elections in 1992 and became one of its prime examples due to the devastating 2008 post-election clashes. In order to answer the research questions, 32 semi-structured interviews with 34 victims of electoral violence coming from four main ‘hotspot areas’ of the 2008 post-election violence as well as four expert interviews were conducted. The study finds that the experience of violent electoral conflict led to diametrically opposed reactions in the behaviour of political participation among respondents. About two-thirds of them indicated a change in their behaviour of political participation. With 33% of the respondents found to be “participating more”, this group even outnumbers its “participating less” counterpart (30%). This finding is rather surprising as the experience of electoral violence is usually associated with the tendency to shy off from political participation, not only in Kenya. Based on their attitudinal dispositions towards democracy in general and towards democracy in Kenya more specifically, as well as towards Kenyan elections, politics and politicians, a fourfold typology of Kenyan citizens was developed from the sample. It includes: the voting citizen, the resigned citizen, the passive citizen, and the active citizen. The voting citizen with no further interest in politics or political participation was found to be the most prevalent type of citizen in the sample. Attention needs to be taken towards the resigned citizen, which could, in case of further violent electoral conflict and the continuing marginalization of specific ethnic groups, cause a threat to the stabilization process of Kenya’s democracy. Contributions of this study were in designing a destination identity framework as well as in discovering the identity of the city of Nelson Mandela Bay. Directions for future studies include the possibility to conduct a qualitative study on place identity so as to obtain a more nuanced understanding of sub-identities in the city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Alcoholism and being under the influence of alcohol
- Authors: Maliti, Zandisile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Alcoholism and employment , Misconduct in office , Alcoholism -- Diagnosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8416 , vital:26354
- Description: Being under the influence of alcohol at work or during working hours is dealt with as misconduct. On the other hand, in a case where an employee suffers from alcoholism, such a case is treated as incapacity due to ill health. The possibility of overlap between the two has contributed to a misconception. Alcoholism cases, are at times, incorrectly treated as misconduct. The same applies to cases of being under the influence of alcohol where such cases would be treated as incapacity instead of being treated as misconduct. The distinction between alcoholism and being under the influence of alcohol was made clear in Transnet Freight Rail v Transnet Bargaining Council C644/2009 [2011] ZALCJHB (4 March 2011) where the Labour Court held that employers have an obligation of assisting employees who suffer from alcoholism with counselling and rehabilitation. Such an obligation does not arise when an employee, who is not an alcoholic, comes to work under the influence of alcohol. Whilst the nature of work is taken into consideration in determining whether an employee is under the influence of alcohol or not, the major cause of disharmony in the determination is a common defence of having consumed alcohol during a night before and whether the physical observations combined with positive breathalyser test results or on their own are indicative, on the balance of probabilities, that an employee is under the influence of alcohol or not. There is no need for an employee to injure himself or herself or other employees before a determination is made that he or she is under the influence of alcohol. Physical observations combined with breathalyzer test results, can be indicative of an employee that is being under the influence of alcohol. The nature of work should be an aggravating or mitigating factor rather than a determining factor of guilt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Maliti, Zandisile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Alcoholism and employment , Misconduct in office , Alcoholism -- Diagnosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8416 , vital:26354
- Description: Being under the influence of alcohol at work or during working hours is dealt with as misconduct. On the other hand, in a case where an employee suffers from alcoholism, such a case is treated as incapacity due to ill health. The possibility of overlap between the two has contributed to a misconception. Alcoholism cases, are at times, incorrectly treated as misconduct. The same applies to cases of being under the influence of alcohol where such cases would be treated as incapacity instead of being treated as misconduct. The distinction between alcoholism and being under the influence of alcohol was made clear in Transnet Freight Rail v Transnet Bargaining Council C644/2009 [2011] ZALCJHB (4 March 2011) where the Labour Court held that employers have an obligation of assisting employees who suffer from alcoholism with counselling and rehabilitation. Such an obligation does not arise when an employee, who is not an alcoholic, comes to work under the influence of alcohol. Whilst the nature of work is taken into consideration in determining whether an employee is under the influence of alcohol or not, the major cause of disharmony in the determination is a common defence of having consumed alcohol during a night before and whether the physical observations combined with positive breathalyser test results or on their own are indicative, on the balance of probabilities, that an employee is under the influence of alcohol or not. There is no need for an employee to injure himself or herself or other employees before a determination is made that he or she is under the influence of alcohol. Physical observations combined with breathalyzer test results, can be indicative of an employee that is being under the influence of alcohol. The nature of work should be an aggravating or mitigating factor rather than a determining factor of guilt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An analysis of revisions to the South African quarterly gross domestic product
- Authors: Fotoyi, Asanda
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3635 , vital:20448
- Description: Gross domestic product (GDP) is one of the most important economic performance indicators for any country that is closely watched by governments, businesses and financial communities. GDP often influences economic decisions and policy-making. These decisions are however often based on preliminary initial announcements by statistical agencies. The preliminary estimates are then revised as more comprehensive information becomes available. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the initial GDP announcements are unbiased, efficient and can be relied on. This study focuses on seasonally adjusted and annualised (qq) growth rates at constant prices for the following national accounts aggregates: GDP, gross domestic expenditure (GDE), final consumption expenditure by households and general government, gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), Exports and imports of goods and services, gross national income (GNI) and disposable income of households. The research methodology used is based on descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression estimations. The results of the study indicate that little confidence should be attributed to interpretations of the initially announced estimates for GDP, GDE, final consumption expenditure by households, GNI and disposable income by households. The study found evidence that suggests that the initial announcements are biased and inefficient. This implies that the initial announcements contain measurement errors that could be eliminated in order to become a better forecast of the final or true value. This further suggests a lack of expected reliability of existing and future initial announcements of the estimates. For short-term analysis the users of GDP data are encouraged to focus on different measures. It is also recommended that the statistical agents producing South Africa’s national accounts aggregates improve their statistical compilation processes. The agencies are also encouraged to conduct periodic revisions studies and make these available to the users.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Fotoyi, Asanda
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3635 , vital:20448
- Description: Gross domestic product (GDP) is one of the most important economic performance indicators for any country that is closely watched by governments, businesses and financial communities. GDP often influences economic decisions and policy-making. These decisions are however often based on preliminary initial announcements by statistical agencies. The preliminary estimates are then revised as more comprehensive information becomes available. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the initial GDP announcements are unbiased, efficient and can be relied on. This study focuses on seasonally adjusted and annualised (qq) growth rates at constant prices for the following national accounts aggregates: GDP, gross domestic expenditure (GDE), final consumption expenditure by households and general government, gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), Exports and imports of goods and services, gross national income (GNI) and disposable income of households. The research methodology used is based on descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression estimations. The results of the study indicate that little confidence should be attributed to interpretations of the initially announced estimates for GDP, GDE, final consumption expenditure by households, GNI and disposable income by households. The study found evidence that suggests that the initial announcements are biased and inefficient. This implies that the initial announcements contain measurement errors that could be eliminated in order to become a better forecast of the final or true value. This further suggests a lack of expected reliability of existing and future initial announcements of the estimates. For short-term analysis the users of GDP data are encouraged to focus on different measures. It is also recommended that the statistical agents producing South Africa’s national accounts aggregates improve their statistical compilation processes. The agencies are also encouraged to conduct periodic revisions studies and make these available to the users.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An analysis of the South African income tax legislation in respect of transfer pricing
- Authors: Le Roux, Ayesha
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13105 , vital:27152
- Description: Transfer pricing has become a very popular term in South Africa over the last few years, even more so since July 2013 when the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Action plan was issued by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and G20 (an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from 20 major economies). The OECD and G20 has issued the plan to address the perceived flaws in international tax rules, giving rise to profit shifting. Subsequently, the OECD has issued numerous reports and as a result has updated its 2010 Transfer Pricing Guidelines. Many countries have adopted these guidelines. However as South Africa is not an OECD member, there is no certainty that it will be adopted. The question is therefore: has the South African Tax legislation met the OECD guidelines and addressed the BEPS issue? Therefore, the objective of the research is to understand whether the current South African tax legislation is in line with the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines and BEPS Action Plan. The South African tax legislation provides South African taxpayers with no guidance as to how the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines needs to be implemented and interpreted. However, even though not legislation, the SARS practice note 7 and draft interpretation note on thin capitalisation provides taxpayers with a good basis of understanding the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, as these documents provided by SARS is similar to that of the guidance in the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, specifically relating to transfer pricing documentation. The issue that may result where the South African tax legislation is not in line with the OECD guidelines and the BEPS Action Plan is that Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) may use South Africa as the country to shift its profits to or from, thus effectively resulting in a loss to the Fiscus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Le Roux, Ayesha
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13105 , vital:27152
- Description: Transfer pricing has become a very popular term in South Africa over the last few years, even more so since July 2013 when the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Action plan was issued by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and G20 (an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from 20 major economies). The OECD and G20 has issued the plan to address the perceived flaws in international tax rules, giving rise to profit shifting. Subsequently, the OECD has issued numerous reports and as a result has updated its 2010 Transfer Pricing Guidelines. Many countries have adopted these guidelines. However as South Africa is not an OECD member, there is no certainty that it will be adopted. The question is therefore: has the South African Tax legislation met the OECD guidelines and addressed the BEPS issue? Therefore, the objective of the research is to understand whether the current South African tax legislation is in line with the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines and BEPS Action Plan. The South African tax legislation provides South African taxpayers with no guidance as to how the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines needs to be implemented and interpreted. However, even though not legislation, the SARS practice note 7 and draft interpretation note on thin capitalisation provides taxpayers with a good basis of understanding the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, as these documents provided by SARS is similar to that of the guidance in the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, specifically relating to transfer pricing documentation. The issue that may result where the South African tax legislation is not in line with the OECD guidelines and the BEPS Action Plan is that Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) may use South Africa as the country to shift its profits to or from, thus effectively resulting in a loss to the Fiscus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An anthropological investigation on the marginalization of women in sport: the case of women soccer in Gelvandale
- Authors: Sait, Shaabiera
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports for women -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Sex discrimination in sports -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10773 , vital:26822
- Description: During the Apartheid era in South Africa, women were marginalized from sport. The ability to participate in sport in South Africa is inherently linked to the political history of the country. Sport played a dynamic role in the struggle against the diabolical system of apartheid in South Africa and has a powerful role to play in the transformation and nation building of South Africa. Women have made great strides in sport in recent years in South Africa. However, at times we find that there is unfair media coverage. The unfair coverage of women’s sport displays gender based attitudes which systematically disadvantage women’s position in society. Women’s participation in sport has grown dramatically but despite this growth coverage of women in sport remains inferior. This research study investigated the marginalization of women in soccer in the Gelvandale area, Port Elizabeth. The objective of this study is to investigate if women are being marginalised in Gelvandale where soccer is concern as well as determining the meaning of gender inequality from an anthropological perspective within the context of soccer in the Gelvandale area. Further, to contribute within the anthropology of soccer in South Africa particularly in the Eastern Cape Province and to come up with recommendations that will contribute towards improvement of soccer in Gelvandale and beyond.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sait, Shaabiera
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports for women -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Sex discrimination in sports -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10773 , vital:26822
- Description: During the Apartheid era in South Africa, women were marginalized from sport. The ability to participate in sport in South Africa is inherently linked to the political history of the country. Sport played a dynamic role in the struggle against the diabolical system of apartheid in South Africa and has a powerful role to play in the transformation and nation building of South Africa. Women have made great strides in sport in recent years in South Africa. However, at times we find that there is unfair media coverage. The unfair coverage of women’s sport displays gender based attitudes which systematically disadvantage women’s position in society. Women’s participation in sport has grown dramatically but despite this growth coverage of women in sport remains inferior. This research study investigated the marginalization of women in soccer in the Gelvandale area, Port Elizabeth. The objective of this study is to investigate if women are being marginalised in Gelvandale where soccer is concern as well as determining the meaning of gender inequality from an anthropological perspective within the context of soccer in the Gelvandale area. Further, to contribute within the anthropology of soccer in South Africa particularly in the Eastern Cape Province and to come up with recommendations that will contribute towards improvement of soccer in Gelvandale and beyond.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An anthropological perspective of destitute families in the Walmer Township, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Families, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45690 , vital:38927
- Description: It is noticeable that poverty and deprivation exists in all forms in most, if not all, societies. Poverty and destitution have led to the formation and development of rural settlements within an urban context, which is known as informal housing. An example of this is Port Elizabeth’s Walmer Township. Walmer Township is seen to be one of the poorest informal settlements within the Eastern Cape, and has common problems of unemployment, violence, substance abuse, HIV/Aids and illiteracy. These problems adversely affect the community’s living conditions and plummets the society further into a state of destitution. In a last attempt to alleviate poverty among communities, such as the Walmer Township, organizations and external agencies have stepped in to reduce the harmful effects caused by poverty. These include shelters, feeding schemes and job empowerment. However, questions as to whether these organizations actually assist those living in poverty, and how can the organizations or current policy be improved, still exist and are raised regularly today. Thus, the research attempts to investigate the social effects of poverty and how it compromises family units, in order to understand what external organizations are in place to assist these families in destitution, and to come up with recommendations with the view of improving the existing policy
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Families, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45690 , vital:38927
- Description: It is noticeable that poverty and deprivation exists in all forms in most, if not all, societies. Poverty and destitution have led to the formation and development of rural settlements within an urban context, which is known as informal housing. An example of this is Port Elizabeth’s Walmer Township. Walmer Township is seen to be one of the poorest informal settlements within the Eastern Cape, and has common problems of unemployment, violence, substance abuse, HIV/Aids and illiteracy. These problems adversely affect the community’s living conditions and plummets the society further into a state of destitution. In a last attempt to alleviate poverty among communities, such as the Walmer Township, organizations and external agencies have stepped in to reduce the harmful effects caused by poverty. These include shelters, feeding schemes and job empowerment. However, questions as to whether these organizations actually assist those living in poverty, and how can the organizations or current policy be improved, still exist and are raised regularly today. Thus, the research attempts to investigate the social effects of poverty and how it compromises family units, in order to understand what external organizations are in place to assist these families in destitution, and to come up with recommendations with the view of improving the existing policy
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An e-learning environment for enterprise resource planning systems
- Authors: Whale, Alyssa Morgan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Blended learning Computer-assisted instruction Information storage and retrieval systems -- Business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13182 , vital:27159
- Description: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) education can positively impact the success of an ERP implementation. Incorporating new tools and technologies into the learning process can potentially alleviate the evident problems with ERP education. Blended learning and e-learning environments both offer opportunities for improvement in education. However, there are various factors and components that need to be in place for such an environment to be successful. The aim of this research is to provide an ERP e-Learning Environment (ERPeL) that can assist with ERP education in terms of creating an integrated and comprehensive learning environment for novice ERP users. In order to achieve this aim, this study followed the Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology which is specific to educational technology research and was applied in iterative cycles where various components of the environment were evaluated by different participants. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected by means of field studies (interviews, focus groups and questionnaires). The proposed ERPeL underwent several iterations of feedback and improvement. In order to determine the success of e-learning, various critical success factors and evaluation criteria were investigated. Field studies were conducted in order to validate the theory in a real-world context. An initial field study was conducted with third year Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) students who were enrolled in the 2014 ERP systems’ module in the Department of Computing Sciences. Many of the problems identified in theory were found to be prevalent in the real-world context. One of the DBR process cycles involved the implementation of specific components of the ERPeL at the Developing and Strengthening Industry-driven Knowledge-transfer between developing Countries (DASIK) introduction to ERP systems course. Participants were either NMMU students, academic staff or industry delegates. The components evaluated included videos, learning content, badges, assessment and the SYSPRO Latte m-learning application. Additional components of a leader board, live chats, peer reviewing, expert reviews, user generated content, consultancy with experts and SYSPRO ERP certification were implemented in the subsequent cycle where participants were 2015 third year NMMU ERP systems students. The criteria used to evaluate the success of the ERPeL and its e-learning components were adapted from literature and a new set of evaluation criteria for e-learning was proposed. The ERPeL is made up of Moodle, the SYSPRO ERP System, the SYSPRO e-Learning System, the SYSPRO Latte m-learning application, learning content and components. Overall the ERPeL was positively received by the various sample groups. The research results indicate that the use of an e-learning environment for ERP systems was positively received. The most positive aspects reported were the implementation of e-learning components such as the interactive videos, simulations and m-learning. In support of this Masters dissertation, the following three papers have been published and presented at two local conferences and one international conference: 1. SACLA 2014, Port Elizabeth (South Africa); 2. SAICSIT 2015, Stellenbosch (South Africa); and 3. IDIA 2015, Zanzibar (Tanzania).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Whale, Alyssa Morgan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Blended learning Computer-assisted instruction Information storage and retrieval systems -- Business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13182 , vital:27159
- Description: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) education can positively impact the success of an ERP implementation. Incorporating new tools and technologies into the learning process can potentially alleviate the evident problems with ERP education. Blended learning and e-learning environments both offer opportunities for improvement in education. However, there are various factors and components that need to be in place for such an environment to be successful. The aim of this research is to provide an ERP e-Learning Environment (ERPeL) that can assist with ERP education in terms of creating an integrated and comprehensive learning environment for novice ERP users. In order to achieve this aim, this study followed the Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology which is specific to educational technology research and was applied in iterative cycles where various components of the environment were evaluated by different participants. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected by means of field studies (interviews, focus groups and questionnaires). The proposed ERPeL underwent several iterations of feedback and improvement. In order to determine the success of e-learning, various critical success factors and evaluation criteria were investigated. Field studies were conducted in order to validate the theory in a real-world context. An initial field study was conducted with third year Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) students who were enrolled in the 2014 ERP systems’ module in the Department of Computing Sciences. Many of the problems identified in theory were found to be prevalent in the real-world context. One of the DBR process cycles involved the implementation of specific components of the ERPeL at the Developing and Strengthening Industry-driven Knowledge-transfer between developing Countries (DASIK) introduction to ERP systems course. Participants were either NMMU students, academic staff or industry delegates. The components evaluated included videos, learning content, badges, assessment and the SYSPRO Latte m-learning application. Additional components of a leader board, live chats, peer reviewing, expert reviews, user generated content, consultancy with experts and SYSPRO ERP certification were implemented in the subsequent cycle where participants were 2015 third year NMMU ERP systems students. The criteria used to evaluate the success of the ERPeL and its e-learning components were adapted from literature and a new set of evaluation criteria for e-learning was proposed. The ERPeL is made up of Moodle, the SYSPRO ERP System, the SYSPRO e-Learning System, the SYSPRO Latte m-learning application, learning content and components. Overall the ERPeL was positively received by the various sample groups. The research results indicate that the use of an e-learning environment for ERP systems was positively received. The most positive aspects reported were the implementation of e-learning components such as the interactive videos, simulations and m-learning. In support of this Masters dissertation, the following three papers have been published and presented at two local conferences and one international conference: 1. SACLA 2014, Port Elizabeth (South Africa); 2. SAICSIT 2015, Stellenbosch (South Africa); and 3. IDIA 2015, Zanzibar (Tanzania).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa
- Authors: Pyper, Regina Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5411 , vital:20838
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are engines of growth. It has been determined globally that these enterprises are the largest employers in economies. Small and Medium Enterprises fail fundamentally to succeed in South Africa. Many challenges and barriers were identified as the reason why the enterprise fails to survive or succeed for at least 42 months. Poor performance of the SMEs could be blamed on the lack of meaningful support including an over-regulated environment, red tape and the poor quality of education and training. A number of Small and Medium Enterprise owners in Turkey were interviewed to determine if the enterprise development support system contributed to success and economic growth. The government succeeded to improve the economy of Turkey profoundly by investing and supporting this very important sector. Turkey is positioned 17th in the world based on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The purpose of this study was to develop an entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa. The government needs to support and implement this framework to stimulate economic growth, to address the poor quality of education and training and to establish a system to measure the performance of critical success factors. A case study research approach was employed to address five propositions that were investigated in this research project. Semi-structured interviews studied the perceptions and experiences of the SME owners in Turkey. The study found a positive relationship between economic growth, a meaningful enterprise development support system, education and training, critical success factors and entrepreneurship and the perceived success of entrepreneurial ventures in South Africa. The establishment and implementation of an entrepreneurial development framework will encourage the creation of new ventures. The government will be able to achieve the goal of economic growth as set out in the National Development Plan. The establishment of SMEs will result in employment, social stability, economic growth and the generation of tax revenues. The purpose of an entrepreneurial development framework is to ensure the sustainable economic development and prosperity of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Pyper, Regina Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5411 , vital:20838
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are engines of growth. It has been determined globally that these enterprises are the largest employers in economies. Small and Medium Enterprises fail fundamentally to succeed in South Africa. Many challenges and barriers were identified as the reason why the enterprise fails to survive or succeed for at least 42 months. Poor performance of the SMEs could be blamed on the lack of meaningful support including an over-regulated environment, red tape and the poor quality of education and training. A number of Small and Medium Enterprise owners in Turkey were interviewed to determine if the enterprise development support system contributed to success and economic growth. The government succeeded to improve the economy of Turkey profoundly by investing and supporting this very important sector. Turkey is positioned 17th in the world based on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The purpose of this study was to develop an entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa. The government needs to support and implement this framework to stimulate economic growth, to address the poor quality of education and training and to establish a system to measure the performance of critical success factors. A case study research approach was employed to address five propositions that were investigated in this research project. Semi-structured interviews studied the perceptions and experiences of the SME owners in Turkey. The study found a positive relationship between economic growth, a meaningful enterprise development support system, education and training, critical success factors and entrepreneurship and the perceived success of entrepreneurial ventures in South Africa. The establishment and implementation of an entrepreneurial development framework will encourage the creation of new ventures. The government will be able to achieve the goal of economic growth as set out in the National Development Plan. The establishment of SMEs will result in employment, social stability, economic growth and the generation of tax revenues. The purpose of an entrepreneurial development framework is to ensure the sustainable economic development and prosperity of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An evaluation of the approaches of the arbitrators to the promotion of disputes resolution in public education
- Authors: Dolopi, Nkosana
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Dispute resolution (Law) Arbitrators
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15378 , vital:28236
- Description: Public Education like other sectors such as Health, International Relations, Finance, Local Government and Environmental Affairs that fall under Public Administration as well as business in private, factory and industrial institutions are embraced or characterized by the concept of employer and employee relationships. These relationships are not always wholesome and harmonious but are overshadowed by disputes and strikes which bring about paralysis and polarization of the operation of business and educational stability in public service and administration sectors as well as at learning institutions. These disputes arise from inter alia, disagreements regarding wage negotiations, unfair dismissals, unfair labour practice involving appointments, promotions and transfers, mutual interest, severance pay, automatically dismissals, operational requirements dismissals (both single and multiple), disclosure of information disputes, organizational rights disputes, agency shop disputes, picketing disputes, unfair discrimination disputes in terms of the Employment Equity of Act as amended, and disputes involving the enforcement of collective agreements or the non-compliance with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and others. Whilst there are similar trends and patterns of disputes in all these sectors, they are, however, not only differ in intensity and rapid occurrence but also in how they are negotiated and settled because the work environments are different at the level of operation, administration and management. What is common in all disputes is that they are all conciliated and arbitrated by arbitrators at the Commission for Conciliation, and Arbitration (hereafter referred to as the CCMA), Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC), Private Resolution Agencies and the Labour Court. The Apartheid era administration had labour laws which dealt with these disputes, but were not progressive and effective in handling them. This placed a heavy burden on the new ANC led government to change the laws of the previous regime. Most of these changes happened in the labour relations and the labour policies. In view of the above situation, the new political dispensation that came into existence and operation in 1994 developed a new labour legislative framework with specific focus on the review of the collective bargaining dispensation. Of significant importance was the entrenchment of labour rights in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. Section 23 of the Constitution is extensive in highlighting the importance to protect amongst others, the right of every trade union to organize and engage in collective bargaining, disclosure of information, restricted rights in domestic sector, rights to establish threshold of representativeness, organizational rights in collective agreements and disputes about organizational rights.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dolopi, Nkosana
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Dispute resolution (Law) Arbitrators
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15378 , vital:28236
- Description: Public Education like other sectors such as Health, International Relations, Finance, Local Government and Environmental Affairs that fall under Public Administration as well as business in private, factory and industrial institutions are embraced or characterized by the concept of employer and employee relationships. These relationships are not always wholesome and harmonious but are overshadowed by disputes and strikes which bring about paralysis and polarization of the operation of business and educational stability in public service and administration sectors as well as at learning institutions. These disputes arise from inter alia, disagreements regarding wage negotiations, unfair dismissals, unfair labour practice involving appointments, promotions and transfers, mutual interest, severance pay, automatically dismissals, operational requirements dismissals (both single and multiple), disclosure of information disputes, organizational rights disputes, agency shop disputes, picketing disputes, unfair discrimination disputes in terms of the Employment Equity of Act as amended, and disputes involving the enforcement of collective agreements or the non-compliance with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and others. Whilst there are similar trends and patterns of disputes in all these sectors, they are, however, not only differ in intensity and rapid occurrence but also in how they are negotiated and settled because the work environments are different at the level of operation, administration and management. What is common in all disputes is that they are all conciliated and arbitrated by arbitrators at the Commission for Conciliation, and Arbitration (hereafter referred to as the CCMA), Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC), Private Resolution Agencies and the Labour Court. The Apartheid era administration had labour laws which dealt with these disputes, but were not progressive and effective in handling them. This placed a heavy burden on the new ANC led government to change the laws of the previous regime. Most of these changes happened in the labour relations and the labour policies. In view of the above situation, the new political dispensation that came into existence and operation in 1994 developed a new labour legislative framework with specific focus on the review of the collective bargaining dispensation. Of significant importance was the entrenchment of labour rights in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. Section 23 of the Constitution is extensive in highlighting the importance to protect amongst others, the right of every trade union to organize and engage in collective bargaining, disclosure of information, restricted rights in domestic sector, rights to establish threshold of representativeness, organizational rights in collective agreements and disputes about organizational rights.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An evaluation of the morphological and genetic diversity of Eurydice occurring on South African sandy beaches
- Hawkins, Magdalena Johanna, Hauser, Lorenz
- Authors: Hawkins, Magdalena Johanna , Hauser, Lorenz
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Morphology , Beaches -- Morphology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6708 , vital:21128
- Description: This study evaluated the diversity of the genus Eurydice on sandy beaches in South Africa by analysis of morphological as well as genetic data. Type specimens of the three Eurydice species currently known from South Africa, E. longicornis, E. kensleyi and E. barnardi were obtained from the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin and the Iziko Museum in Cape Town, South Africa. These specimens were studied in order to become familiar with their morphology. Eurydice individuals obtained from 30 sites spanning the South African coast, from Port Nolloth on the north-west coast to Bhanga Nek on the north-east coast were then examined. The two species E. kensleyi and E. barnardi, as well as four new morphospecies (A, B, C and D) were discriminated from these individuals by suites of morphological character types. Morphospecies A, B, C and D were therefore delimited according to the Phenetic Species Concept. None of the Eurydice individuals examined exhibited the same suite of characters as E. longicornis. Molecular sequences of two mitochondrial markers, cytochrome c oxidase 1 and 16S rRNA were analysed using both distance- and monophyly based methods. Uncorrected p-distances, a Minimum Spanning Haplotype Network and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic trees were investigated to determine genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships in the six Eurydice morphospecies. Results from the genetic analysis made it possible to delimit morphospecies A B, C and D as phylospecies A, B, C and D according to the Phylogenetic Species Concept, thereby validating the species status of four new Eurydice species, provisionally called Eurydice A, Eurydice B, Eurydice C and Eurydice D. This increases the total number of Eurydice species from South Africa to seven, of which six form part of the macrofauna of sandy beaches. The outcomes of this study represent an important step in the resolution of the taxonomy of the genus Eurydice in South Africa and enhance current knowledge of the biodiversity of sandy beach macrofauna, thus facilitating better-informed decisions on conservation policies and management to the benefit of conservation of biodiversity on sandy beaches in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Hawkins, Magdalena Johanna , Hauser, Lorenz
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Morphology , Beaches -- Morphology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6708 , vital:21128
- Description: This study evaluated the diversity of the genus Eurydice on sandy beaches in South Africa by analysis of morphological as well as genetic data. Type specimens of the three Eurydice species currently known from South Africa, E. longicornis, E. kensleyi and E. barnardi were obtained from the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin and the Iziko Museum in Cape Town, South Africa. These specimens were studied in order to become familiar with their morphology. Eurydice individuals obtained from 30 sites spanning the South African coast, from Port Nolloth on the north-west coast to Bhanga Nek on the north-east coast were then examined. The two species E. kensleyi and E. barnardi, as well as four new morphospecies (A, B, C and D) were discriminated from these individuals by suites of morphological character types. Morphospecies A, B, C and D were therefore delimited according to the Phenetic Species Concept. None of the Eurydice individuals examined exhibited the same suite of characters as E. longicornis. Molecular sequences of two mitochondrial markers, cytochrome c oxidase 1 and 16S rRNA were analysed using both distance- and monophyly based methods. Uncorrected p-distances, a Minimum Spanning Haplotype Network and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic trees were investigated to determine genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships in the six Eurydice morphospecies. Results from the genetic analysis made it possible to delimit morphospecies A B, C and D as phylospecies A, B, C and D according to the Phylogenetic Species Concept, thereby validating the species status of four new Eurydice species, provisionally called Eurydice A, Eurydice B, Eurydice C and Eurydice D. This increases the total number of Eurydice species from South Africa to seven, of which six form part of the macrofauna of sandy beaches. The outcomes of this study represent an important step in the resolution of the taxonomy of the genus Eurydice in South Africa and enhance current knowledge of the biodiversity of sandy beach macrofauna, thus facilitating better-informed decisions on conservation policies and management to the benefit of conservation of biodiversity on sandy beaches in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An exploratory investigation on the subsequent experiences of emotional, verbal and physical abuse by learners on the well- being of high school teachers in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Ferreira, Xanthe Rune
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: High school teachers -- Abuse of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Bullying in schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEdu
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12414 , vital:27064
- Description: The main aim of this study was to investigate and explore how the emotional, verbal and or physical abuse of teachers by learners could impact on the general well-being of high school teachers in the Port Elizabeth region.This study asked how does the emotional, verbal and or physical abuse of teachers by learners impact on the general well-being of teachers? It also set out to find out what types of abuse teachers experience the most, how frequently teachers are exposed to abuse by learners and if there are any solutions to teacher abuse that can be offered. A teacher should be seen as someone who imparts knowledge, a person that creates an atmosphere for learning, a facilitator. Teachers are there to teach, although this is sadly not the case in schools anymore. Teachers are being abused by their learners in the classrooms and very few incidents are ever reported as teachers fear the repercussions of perhaps being told that because a class is misbehaving that they lack the necessary skills to be proficient teachers. There is limited literature available on the topic especially with regards to teacher abuse by learners in South Africa as the main focus used to be how teachers could be abusive to the learners and not the learners being abusive towards their teachers. This situation as is in South Africa at the moment can be seen as a silent epidemic. This study made use of a pragmatic paradigm that included both quantitative and qualitative research and data collection methods and an explanatory design was used to display the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ferreira, Xanthe Rune
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: High school teachers -- Abuse of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Bullying in schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEdu
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12414 , vital:27064
- Description: The main aim of this study was to investigate and explore how the emotional, verbal and or physical abuse of teachers by learners could impact on the general well-being of high school teachers in the Port Elizabeth region.This study asked how does the emotional, verbal and or physical abuse of teachers by learners impact on the general well-being of teachers? It also set out to find out what types of abuse teachers experience the most, how frequently teachers are exposed to abuse by learners and if there are any solutions to teacher abuse that can be offered. A teacher should be seen as someone who imparts knowledge, a person that creates an atmosphere for learning, a facilitator. Teachers are there to teach, although this is sadly not the case in schools anymore. Teachers are being abused by their learners in the classrooms and very few incidents are ever reported as teachers fear the repercussions of perhaps being told that because a class is misbehaving that they lack the necessary skills to be proficient teachers. There is limited literature available on the topic especially with regards to teacher abuse by learners in South Africa as the main focus used to be how teachers could be abusive to the learners and not the learners being abusive towards their teachers. This situation as is in South Africa at the moment can be seen as a silent epidemic. This study made use of a pragmatic paradigm that included both quantitative and qualitative research and data collection methods and an explanatory design was used to display the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An integrated farm management information system for the South African hydroponic industry
- Authors: Cork, Justin Trevor James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Farm management Hydroponics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5500 , vital:20871
- Description: The world’s population is growing at an average of 1.2 percent per annum and forecasts see the global population reaching 9.6 billion by 2050. This places great demands on the sustained production capacity of agricultural organisations to meet the desperate need for nutrition. This problem will continue to persist if production methods do not evolve to improve production and quality. Hydroponics and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) was first seen in Rome during the 1st Century. Then sixteen Centuries later Greenhouses were developed in France and England as experimental hydroponics for basic laboratory research. Rapid expansion took place from about the 1950’s in areas where traditional openenvironment agriculture was difficult or impossible such as the deserts of Iran, Abu Dhabi and California. Sixty-five years later in 2015 hydroponics and CEA are well established around the world with thousands of hectares under propagation. Hydroponics is a method of agricultural production that has been refined over the years to become an exact science. Through the application of technology and know-how the physiological processes within plants can be manipulated and controlled to produce superior results. These results require less land area and less water to accomplish. It can be seen, based on this development, that hydroponics is such an evolution that has the capacity to meet the needs of a growing global population and its nutritional needs. The challenge lies, though, in the scientific understanding and application of knowledge in growing and managing a hydroponics farm. This study seeks to determine the internal data and external information needs of farmers in the hydroponics industry. This data and information will be integrated into a Farm Management Information System (FMIS) model that will be used for decision making, report generation and documentation. The problem leading to this study is the dissemination of data and information sources that are currently underutilised and difficult to access. In determining the internal data and external information needs, an empirical study was conducted using structured interview. Thirty farm managers were interviewed to assess what their current information system consisted of, whether they had a need for an FMIS and what internal data and external information was needed which related to four functional components of hydroponic farming. The results of this study indicate that there is a need for an FMIS for the hydroponic industry in South Africa. The results also indicate that managers are not fully satisfied with the performance of their current information system and would be interested in considering alternative information systems. Data points relating to the four functional components were assessed and integrated into an FMIS model for the hydroponic industry. This model sets out to integrate internal data and external information for purposes of decision making, report generation and documentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Cork, Justin Trevor James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Farm management Hydroponics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5500 , vital:20871
- Description: The world’s population is growing at an average of 1.2 percent per annum and forecasts see the global population reaching 9.6 billion by 2050. This places great demands on the sustained production capacity of agricultural organisations to meet the desperate need for nutrition. This problem will continue to persist if production methods do not evolve to improve production and quality. Hydroponics and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) was first seen in Rome during the 1st Century. Then sixteen Centuries later Greenhouses were developed in France and England as experimental hydroponics for basic laboratory research. Rapid expansion took place from about the 1950’s in areas where traditional openenvironment agriculture was difficult or impossible such as the deserts of Iran, Abu Dhabi and California. Sixty-five years later in 2015 hydroponics and CEA are well established around the world with thousands of hectares under propagation. Hydroponics is a method of agricultural production that has been refined over the years to become an exact science. Through the application of technology and know-how the physiological processes within plants can be manipulated and controlled to produce superior results. These results require less land area and less water to accomplish. It can be seen, based on this development, that hydroponics is such an evolution that has the capacity to meet the needs of a growing global population and its nutritional needs. The challenge lies, though, in the scientific understanding and application of knowledge in growing and managing a hydroponics farm. This study seeks to determine the internal data and external information needs of farmers in the hydroponics industry. This data and information will be integrated into a Farm Management Information System (FMIS) model that will be used for decision making, report generation and documentation. The problem leading to this study is the dissemination of data and information sources that are currently underutilised and difficult to access. In determining the internal data and external information needs, an empirical study was conducted using structured interview. Thirty farm managers were interviewed to assess what their current information system consisted of, whether they had a need for an FMIS and what internal data and external information was needed which related to four functional components of hydroponic farming. The results of this study indicate that there is a need for an FMIS for the hydroponic industry in South Africa. The results also indicate that managers are not fully satisfied with the performance of their current information system and would be interested in considering alternative information systems. Data points relating to the four functional components were assessed and integrated into an FMIS model for the hydroponic industry. This model sets out to integrate internal data and external information for purposes of decision making, report generation and documentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An integrated marketing communication framework for communicating city events in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Mass media -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8477 , vital:26368
- Description: In the recent past, cities all over the world have made attempts to brand themselves differently from their counterparts. These efforts have been made with the aim of improving the economic locus of the city in question and to some extent the welfare of its inhabitants. With this regard, various activities have been organised to ensure that the cities attract tourists, investors and other pertinent stakeholders. The hosting of city events is one major strategy that cities have used to trademark themselves more attractively to external stakeholders. City event planners have similarly made efforts to brand and communicate these city events in order to achieve recognition and attendance. In spite of these attempts however, studies reveal that the major stakeholders of the events: the residents, seem to be overlooked by the city decision makers during these endeavours. Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) involves the combination of all the available communication channels and resources to convey a message to a target audience. Hence, with regard to communicating city events, the key motivation for using IMC is to generate awareness whilst communicating an effective, clear and consistent message to the target audience (residents). However, communication strategies should not be developed in isolation. It is of extreme importance that city event planners consider involving the city residents when crafting these IMC strategies. In fact, the city events planners and decision makers should bear in mind that; the major success of any city event depends entirely on the support of the city residents, who act as brand ambassadors to their social circles within and outside the city. In order for a city to successfully implement a communication strategy, it is imperative that the city understands the media consumption patterns of the residents. Various factors such as age, gender and ethnicity determine the media consumption habits of residents; and should be investigated in order to determine the most effective channels of communication to use for a particular target audience. During the early months of the year 2014, key stakeholders within Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) resolved to improve the brand image of the NMB. These stakeholders entered into a partnership with NMMU Business School, who offered to conduct research on various themes: Brand Identity, Business Events, City Events Communication, City Events Marketing, Cultural Events and Sports Events. This study is hence based on the City Events Communication theme and its purpose is to establish the factors that determine media consumption amongst the residents and their perception towards communication with and amongst the residents of NMB. Additionally, this study sought to identify the various communication channels that are available in NMB whilst establishing which of these channels are most highly ranked by the residents. In order to achieve these objectives, both primary and secondary research were conducted. Literature was reviewed in order to create a basis for this study based on previous academic research. The background of IMC was established and the various pillars of IMC discussed. Factors that influence the choice of communication media were also identified and discussed. Thereafter, an empirical study was conducted in order to determine the factors that influence media usage amongst the residents of NMB, in addition to their perception towards communication. A total of 3,659 residents were interviewed and findings indicated that there is a strong relationship between the media usage and age, gender, ethnicity, income per household and the suburb lived. However, the strength of relationships that were observed differed amongst the various dependent variables that were created for purposes of analysing the media usage. A strong inclination towards the use of traditional media; radio and newspaper amongst the residents of NMB was identified. Equally, Public Relations (PR) emerged as an essential way for residents to create and maintain stakeholder relationships between themselves and the NMB. The residents felt that NMB should make efforts and engage with them more frequently especially with regard to communicating city events. Word of mouth amongst peers and billboards were also identified as communication media that are largely used to source for city events information, impacting greatly on the events attendance by the residents. Unfortunately, the use of New Media (Facebook, Twitter and YouTube) to source for city events information was not predominant amongst the respondents. However, with close to three quarters of the respondents having access to the Internet, there is a likelihood that residents can adopt to the use of social media as a source of city events information. Furthermore, the majority of respondents indicated that they access the Internet daily. These findings are a clear indication that the adoption and use of new media is possible if developed and implemented in a strategic manner by the major decision makers. Once the factors that influence media consumption by the residents of NMB were established, an integrated marketing communication framework was developed based on these factors and the highly ranked channels of communication. This study concluded in the development and proposal of an IMC framework for use in communication of city events to the residents of NMB. Managerial recommendations were also given which are expected to enhance the effective implementation of the proposed framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Mass media -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8477 , vital:26368
- Description: In the recent past, cities all over the world have made attempts to brand themselves differently from their counterparts. These efforts have been made with the aim of improving the economic locus of the city in question and to some extent the welfare of its inhabitants. With this regard, various activities have been organised to ensure that the cities attract tourists, investors and other pertinent stakeholders. The hosting of city events is one major strategy that cities have used to trademark themselves more attractively to external stakeholders. City event planners have similarly made efforts to brand and communicate these city events in order to achieve recognition and attendance. In spite of these attempts however, studies reveal that the major stakeholders of the events: the residents, seem to be overlooked by the city decision makers during these endeavours. Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) involves the combination of all the available communication channels and resources to convey a message to a target audience. Hence, with regard to communicating city events, the key motivation for using IMC is to generate awareness whilst communicating an effective, clear and consistent message to the target audience (residents). However, communication strategies should not be developed in isolation. It is of extreme importance that city event planners consider involving the city residents when crafting these IMC strategies. In fact, the city events planners and decision makers should bear in mind that; the major success of any city event depends entirely on the support of the city residents, who act as brand ambassadors to their social circles within and outside the city. In order for a city to successfully implement a communication strategy, it is imperative that the city understands the media consumption patterns of the residents. Various factors such as age, gender and ethnicity determine the media consumption habits of residents; and should be investigated in order to determine the most effective channels of communication to use for a particular target audience. During the early months of the year 2014, key stakeholders within Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) resolved to improve the brand image of the NMB. These stakeholders entered into a partnership with NMMU Business School, who offered to conduct research on various themes: Brand Identity, Business Events, City Events Communication, City Events Marketing, Cultural Events and Sports Events. This study is hence based on the City Events Communication theme and its purpose is to establish the factors that determine media consumption amongst the residents and their perception towards communication with and amongst the residents of NMB. Additionally, this study sought to identify the various communication channels that are available in NMB whilst establishing which of these channels are most highly ranked by the residents. In order to achieve these objectives, both primary and secondary research were conducted. Literature was reviewed in order to create a basis for this study based on previous academic research. The background of IMC was established and the various pillars of IMC discussed. Factors that influence the choice of communication media were also identified and discussed. Thereafter, an empirical study was conducted in order to determine the factors that influence media usage amongst the residents of NMB, in addition to their perception towards communication. A total of 3,659 residents were interviewed and findings indicated that there is a strong relationship between the media usage and age, gender, ethnicity, income per household and the suburb lived. However, the strength of relationships that were observed differed amongst the various dependent variables that were created for purposes of analysing the media usage. A strong inclination towards the use of traditional media; radio and newspaper amongst the residents of NMB was identified. Equally, Public Relations (PR) emerged as an essential way for residents to create and maintain stakeholder relationships between themselves and the NMB. The residents felt that NMB should make efforts and engage with them more frequently especially with regard to communicating city events. Word of mouth amongst peers and billboards were also identified as communication media that are largely used to source for city events information, impacting greatly on the events attendance by the residents. Unfortunately, the use of New Media (Facebook, Twitter and YouTube) to source for city events information was not predominant amongst the respondents. However, with close to three quarters of the respondents having access to the Internet, there is a likelihood that residents can adopt to the use of social media as a source of city events information. Furthermore, the majority of respondents indicated that they access the Internet daily. These findings are a clear indication that the adoption and use of new media is possible if developed and implemented in a strategic manner by the major decision makers. Once the factors that influence media consumption by the residents of NMB were established, an integrated marketing communication framework was developed based on these factors and the highly ranked channels of communication. This study concluded in the development and proposal of an IMC framework for use in communication of city events to the residents of NMB. Managerial recommendations were also given which are expected to enhance the effective implementation of the proposed framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An internal audit's perspective on the role of social and ethics committees
- Authors: Jalavu, Zisanda Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa Disclosure of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11998 , vital:27020
- Description: This thesis reveals the results of a study during which the 2014 integrated reports, sustainability reports and websites of the twelve JSE listed companies, were selected and evaluated. The aim of the thesis was to explore the responsibilities and duties of the S&E Committee; in the South African governance context as well as to assess the usefulness of disclosures made in the integrated reports regarding the social and ethics as part of corporate governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and an interview was held with the expert in the field of social and ethics governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and form themes and trends. A checklist was developed and used as an the evaluation tool based on the King III and Companies Act requirements on reporting of social and ethics governance. This checklist may be used as an effective tool by internal audit in carrying out an audit of the social and ethics governance. The results of the analysis were then presented to the expert in the field of social and ethics governance for comments. The results obtained indicate that most JSE listed companies conform to good corporate governance practices. However, there are areas where limited disclosure of information was found to be the case. These include the disclosure of information on sustainability, the information was not consistent and would be less helpful to stakeholders who want to analyse changes in the company‟s performance over time, especially relative to other companies. The information also did not meet the sustainability reporting criteria of sustainability context; the sustainability performance was not presented in the wider context, which limits the significant interpretative value. Future research, with the focus on sectorial disclosures, smaller companies as well as consideration of other sources of social and ethics governance information should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jalavu, Zisanda Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa Disclosure of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11998 , vital:27020
- Description: This thesis reveals the results of a study during which the 2014 integrated reports, sustainability reports and websites of the twelve JSE listed companies, were selected and evaluated. The aim of the thesis was to explore the responsibilities and duties of the S&E Committee; in the South African governance context as well as to assess the usefulness of disclosures made in the integrated reports regarding the social and ethics as part of corporate governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and an interview was held with the expert in the field of social and ethics governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and form themes and trends. A checklist was developed and used as an the evaluation tool based on the King III and Companies Act requirements on reporting of social and ethics governance. This checklist may be used as an effective tool by internal audit in carrying out an audit of the social and ethics governance. The results of the analysis were then presented to the expert in the field of social and ethics governance for comments. The results obtained indicate that most JSE listed companies conform to good corporate governance practices. However, there are areas where limited disclosure of information was found to be the case. These include the disclosure of information on sustainability, the information was not consistent and would be less helpful to stakeholders who want to analyse changes in the company‟s performance over time, especially relative to other companies. The information also did not meet the sustainability reporting criteria of sustainability context; the sustainability performance was not presented in the wider context, which limits the significant interpretative value. Future research, with the focus on sectorial disclosures, smaller companies as well as consideration of other sources of social and ethics governance information should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An international marketing framework for Ford South Africa in Nigeria
- Authors: Adams, Pedro Duan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Export marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Management -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3869 , vital:20471
- Description: Africa is seen as the last investment frontier and according to literature will have a GDP of $1.5 trillion by the year 2016 and a population that is double the size of Europe. The rapid expansion of infrastructure and construction in African countries, such as Mozambique and Zambia has increased the demand for commercial vehicles. This has sparked unparalleled marketing opportunities for automotive manufacturers and the continent is fast attracting major players in this sector. The international marketing literature still lacks detailed studies and research into the marketing deliberations and trades in Africa. Therefore, according literature a greater representation of African culture within the international marketing literature would provide relevance and richness in the global market place and offer greater insight to organisations who are seeking to invest and expand their businesses in Africa. The management issue here is to comprehend the diversity and vastness of this region and putting together all spheres to ensure growth and creating brand loyalty. The key challenge here is for management to be able to grasp and understand not only the various cultures but also the way of doing business in such a vastly different region. It is therefore imperative for Ford Motor Company to fully understand these factors so as to take full advantage associated with entering a market early which is commonly referred as first-mover-advantage. A case in point is when General Motors entered the Chinese automotive industry in 1997 when the Chinese market was relatively small. General Motors’ enthusiasm and commitment back in 1997 was driven by a belief that China would ultimately become an economic powerhouse and emerge as one of the world’s largest automotive markets. By the year 2010 China was one of the world’s biggest automotive markets and General Motors was a dominant force in this market. Africa has all the key elements for the growth and development of a robust automotive market. By studying past experiences and outcomes from empirical studies on international marketing with emphasis on the automotive industry, it will be possible to draw lessons and experience about the potential growth of the automotive sector on the African continent. This study will also be of great significance to other automotive manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their business and market share across Africa due to the increase of the middle class. Therefore creative strategies and thinking of how to circumvent challenges in the African cultural environment, creativity in managing bureaucracy and due diligence about business and investment opportunities will uncover unprecedented volumes of profitable business that lies untapped on the African continent. Data from the quantitative study suggest that culture, political environment, country-of-origin, competition and country infrastructure in Nigeria, are essential factors to the development of a successful international marketing strategy for Ford South Africa. This study therefore concludes that Ford Motor Company of South Africa can utilize this framework in order to gain greater market share and ultimately success in Nigeria. Recommendations were also made for future research studies that can contribute to the international marketing literature with emphasis on the African market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Adams, Pedro Duan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Export marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Management -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3869 , vital:20471
- Description: Africa is seen as the last investment frontier and according to literature will have a GDP of $1.5 trillion by the year 2016 and a population that is double the size of Europe. The rapid expansion of infrastructure and construction in African countries, such as Mozambique and Zambia has increased the demand for commercial vehicles. This has sparked unparalleled marketing opportunities for automotive manufacturers and the continent is fast attracting major players in this sector. The international marketing literature still lacks detailed studies and research into the marketing deliberations and trades in Africa. Therefore, according literature a greater representation of African culture within the international marketing literature would provide relevance and richness in the global market place and offer greater insight to organisations who are seeking to invest and expand their businesses in Africa. The management issue here is to comprehend the diversity and vastness of this region and putting together all spheres to ensure growth and creating brand loyalty. The key challenge here is for management to be able to grasp and understand not only the various cultures but also the way of doing business in such a vastly different region. It is therefore imperative for Ford Motor Company to fully understand these factors so as to take full advantage associated with entering a market early which is commonly referred as first-mover-advantage. A case in point is when General Motors entered the Chinese automotive industry in 1997 when the Chinese market was relatively small. General Motors’ enthusiasm and commitment back in 1997 was driven by a belief that China would ultimately become an economic powerhouse and emerge as one of the world’s largest automotive markets. By the year 2010 China was one of the world’s biggest automotive markets and General Motors was a dominant force in this market. Africa has all the key elements for the growth and development of a robust automotive market. By studying past experiences and outcomes from empirical studies on international marketing with emphasis on the automotive industry, it will be possible to draw lessons and experience about the potential growth of the automotive sector on the African continent. This study will also be of great significance to other automotive manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their business and market share across Africa due to the increase of the middle class. Therefore creative strategies and thinking of how to circumvent challenges in the African cultural environment, creativity in managing bureaucracy and due diligence about business and investment opportunities will uncover unprecedented volumes of profitable business that lies untapped on the African continent. Data from the quantitative study suggest that culture, political environment, country-of-origin, competition and country infrastructure in Nigeria, are essential factors to the development of a successful international marketing strategy for Ford South Africa. This study therefore concludes that Ford Motor Company of South Africa can utilize this framework in order to gain greater market share and ultimately success in Nigeria. Recommendations were also made for future research studies that can contribute to the international marketing literature with emphasis on the African market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation into the promotion and development of awareness intergenerational transmission of prejudice in adolescents
- Authors: Vermaas, Shanna Maureen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Adolescence , Bibliotherapy for teenagers , Prejudices
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7211 , vital:21302
- Description: South Africa is a country where those who were oppressed in the past are trying to live in a society with their former oppressors. The youth of today appear to be carrying the anger, fears and uncertainties of the past. This could be the result of intergenerational transmission of prejudice, whereby memories of experiences, fears, anger and levels of anxiety may be absorbed by the next generation. The purpose of this study was to develop and implement an intervention programme that could assist adolescent learners in making their own informed decisions, despite the influences of the intergenerational transmission of prejudice. This was achieved by combining three theories, namely the transgenerational theory, historical trauma and social learning theory, with the principles of bibliotherapy. The research conducted was based in the interpretive paradigm, with the study methodology being qualitative in nature. The research design implemented was a case study. Data generation was achieved by utilising a variety of methods, namely open-ended questions, small focus groups and reflection journals. Analysis of the data was accomplished by applying a thematic analysis approach. The sample for this study was selected from a local, government high school and the participants consisted of a group of Grade 10 learners, who all held leadership positions in the school. The purpose of this study was achieved by utilising the principles of bibliotherapy to inform a programme to develop awareness of intergenerational transmission of prejudice. This was then combined with the principles of bibliotherapy, with scenarios taken from the animated film, The Land Before Time, to further assist in creating awareness and a better understanding of the intergenerational transmission of knowledge. Finally, the programme was used to equip the participants with the tools needed, to transfer what they had learnt from the programme to decisions they would need to make in their daily lives. This study has shown that the principles of bibliotherapy can be used to promote and develop awareness of intergenerational transmission of prejudice in adolescent learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Vermaas, Shanna Maureen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Adolescence , Bibliotherapy for teenagers , Prejudices
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7211 , vital:21302
- Description: South Africa is a country where those who were oppressed in the past are trying to live in a society with their former oppressors. The youth of today appear to be carrying the anger, fears and uncertainties of the past. This could be the result of intergenerational transmission of prejudice, whereby memories of experiences, fears, anger and levels of anxiety may be absorbed by the next generation. The purpose of this study was to develop and implement an intervention programme that could assist adolescent learners in making their own informed decisions, despite the influences of the intergenerational transmission of prejudice. This was achieved by combining three theories, namely the transgenerational theory, historical trauma and social learning theory, with the principles of bibliotherapy. The research conducted was based in the interpretive paradigm, with the study methodology being qualitative in nature. The research design implemented was a case study. Data generation was achieved by utilising a variety of methods, namely open-ended questions, small focus groups and reflection journals. Analysis of the data was accomplished by applying a thematic analysis approach. The sample for this study was selected from a local, government high school and the participants consisted of a group of Grade 10 learners, who all held leadership positions in the school. The purpose of this study was achieved by utilising the principles of bibliotherapy to inform a programme to develop awareness of intergenerational transmission of prejudice. This was then combined with the principles of bibliotherapy, with scenarios taken from the animated film, The Land Before Time, to further assist in creating awareness and a better understanding of the intergenerational transmission of knowledge. Finally, the programme was used to equip the participants with the tools needed, to transfer what they had learnt from the programme to decisions they would need to make in their daily lives. This study has shown that the principles of bibliotherapy can be used to promote and develop awareness of intergenerational transmission of prejudice in adolescent learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation into the provision of government social grants to people with disabilities in Amathole Distrcit municipality
- Authors: Aplom, Thobeka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African Social Security Agency , Public welfare -- South Africa , Grants-in-aid -- South Africa , Welfare fraud -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5754 , vital:20998
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the efficiency and effectiveness of the process for providing government social grants to people with disabilities in the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Amathole District Municipality in order to determine the need for any improvement measures. Taylor’s scientific management theory and the Total Quality Management (TQM) concept were used to interpret efficiency in the functional activities of the officials working in the Disability Grant Unit in Amathole District. The study also sought to answer the question of whether exit programmes existed that were designed to assist the beneficiaries to support them and cater for their needs related to their disabilities. The study followed a qualitative method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted and the sample of this study consisted of ten participants who are working at Grant Administration. These participants included one General Manager; one District Manager; one SASSA doctor; one Head of Grants Administration in the district and six officials who are at lower levels of the hierarchy at Amathole District Municipality in East London service office. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from the interviews. The findings of this study revealed that the majority of the respondents experienced challenges such as lack of assessment doctors, turn around-time, corruption, poor consultation, lack of managerial commitment and doctors regarding the assessment of applications. In this regards, the study made a set of recommendations on the measures and strategies that could improve efficiency in the provision of this service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Aplom, Thobeka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African Social Security Agency , Public welfare -- South Africa , Grants-in-aid -- South Africa , Welfare fraud -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5754 , vital:20998
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the efficiency and effectiveness of the process for providing government social grants to people with disabilities in the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Amathole District Municipality in order to determine the need for any improvement measures. Taylor’s scientific management theory and the Total Quality Management (TQM) concept were used to interpret efficiency in the functional activities of the officials working in the Disability Grant Unit in Amathole District. The study also sought to answer the question of whether exit programmes existed that were designed to assist the beneficiaries to support them and cater for their needs related to their disabilities. The study followed a qualitative method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted and the sample of this study consisted of ten participants who are working at Grant Administration. These participants included one General Manager; one District Manager; one SASSA doctor; one Head of Grants Administration in the district and six officials who are at lower levels of the hierarchy at Amathole District Municipality in East London service office. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from the interviews. The findings of this study revealed that the majority of the respondents experienced challenges such as lack of assessment doctors, turn around-time, corruption, poor consultation, lack of managerial commitment and doctors regarding the assessment of applications. In this regards, the study made a set of recommendations on the measures and strategies that could improve efficiency in the provision of this service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation of the history and works of the Keiskamma Art Project
- Authors: Osner, Heather
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community arts projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Artists and community -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13038 , vital:27146
- Description: This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa. This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty-stricken communities in South Africa.This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa.This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Osner, Heather
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community arts projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Artists and community -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13038 , vital:27146
- Description: This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa. This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty-stricken communities in South Africa.This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa.This research study focusses on how and why Carol Hofmeyr began the Keiskamma Art Project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, as well as the development of the project’s infrastructure, history and detailed business practices and how it has evolved. A chronological detailed pictorial record has been drawn up of the major/monumental works it has produced, its achievements, awards and the accolades it has won. The recurrent narrative themes of HIV/AIDS, Nguni cattle, the Nongquawuse story, local birds, plants and fish which are also discussed. A comparable study, comparing the business practices of the Keiskamma Art Project with the research of Professor Ingrid Stevens on Morris & Co and five other successful, sustained South African Art Projects. Data has been tabulated in an effort to recognise the variances, similarities and differences in an effort to identify a “best practise” business model. Such a model may assist in the development of further art projects, so as to uplift other poverty stricken communities in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation of the morphological and electrochemical properties of spinel cathode oxide materials used in li-ion batteries
- Authors: Snyders, Charmelle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lithium ion batteries Cathodes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12929 , vital:27135
- Description: Li-ion batteries have become the more dominant battery type used in portable electronic devices such as cell phones, computers and more recently their application in full electric vehicles (EV). Li-ion batteries have many advantages over the traditional rechargeable systems (Pb-acid and Ni-MH) such as their higher energy density, low self-discharge, long capacity cycle life and relatively maintenance free. Due to their commercial advantages, a lot of research is done in developing new novel Li-ion electrode materials, improving existing ones and to reduce manufacturing costs in order to make them more cost effective in their applications. This study looked at the cathode material chemistry that has a typical spinel manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) type structure. For comparison the study also considered the influence of doping the phase with various metals such as Al, Mg, Co and Ni that were made as precursors using various carboxylic acids (Citric, Ascorbic, Succinic and Poly-acrylic acid) from a sol-gel process. Traditional batch methods of synthesizing the electrode material is costly and do not necessarily provide optimized electrochemical performance. Alternative continuous less energy intensive methods would help reduce the costs of the preparation of the electrode materials. This study investigated the influence of two synthesis techniques on the materials physical and electrochemical characteristics. These synthesis methods included the use of a typical batch sol-gel method and the continuous spray-drying technique. The spinel materials were prepared and characterized by Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD) to confirm the formation of various phases during the synthesis process. In addition, in-situ PXRD techniques were used to track the phase changes that occurred in the typical batch synthesis process from a sol-gel mixture to the final crystalline spinel oxide. The materials were also characterized by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), whereby the materials decomposition mechanisms were observed as the precursor was gradually heated to the final oxide. These synthesized materials prepared under various conditions were then used to build suitable Li-ion coin type of cells, whereby their electrochemical properties were tested by simple capacity tests and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). EIS measurements were done on the built cells with the various materials at various charge voltages. TG analysis showed that the materials underwent multiple decomposition steps upon heating for the doped lithium manganese oxides, whereas the undoped oxide showed only a single decomposition step. The results showed that all the materials achieved their weight loss below 400 °C, and that the final spinel oxide had already formed. The in-situ PXRD analysis showed the progression of the phase transitions where certain of the materials changed from a crystalline precursor to an amorphous intermediate phase and then finally to the spinel cathode oxide (Li1.03Mg0.2Mn1.77O4, and LiCo1.09Mn0.91O4). For other materials, the precursor would start as an amorphous phase, and then upon heating, convert into an impure intermediate phase (Mn2O3) before forming the final spinel oxide (Li1.03Mn1.97O4 and LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4). The in-situ study also showed the increases in the materials respective lattice parameters of the crystalline unit cells upon heating and the significant increases in their crystallite sizes when heated above 600 °C. Hence the results implied that a type of sintering of the particles would occur at temperatures above 600 °C, thereby increasing the respective crystallite size. The study showed that the cathode active materials made by the sol-gel spray-drying method would give a material that had a significantly larger surface area and a smaller crystallite size when compared to the materials made by the batch process. The electrochemical analysis showed that there was only a slight increase in the discharge capacities of the cells made with the spray-drying technique when compared to the cells made with the materials from the batch sol-gel technique. Whereas, the EIS study showed that there were distinct differences in the charging behavior of the cells made with the various materials using different synthesis techniques. The EIS results showed that there was a general decrease in the cells charge transfer resistance (Rct) as the charge potential increased regardless of the synthesis method used for the various materials. The results also showed that the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient (DLi) obtained from EIS measurements were in most of the samples higher for the cathode materials that had a larger surface area. This implied that the Li-ion could diffuse at a faster rate through the bulk material. The study concluded that by optimizing the synthesis process in terms of the careful control of the thermal parameters, the Li-ion batteries‟ cathode active material of the manganese spinel type could be optimized and be manufactured by using a continuous flow micro spray process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Snyders, Charmelle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lithium ion batteries Cathodes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12929 , vital:27135
- Description: Li-ion batteries have become the more dominant battery type used in portable electronic devices such as cell phones, computers and more recently their application in full electric vehicles (EV). Li-ion batteries have many advantages over the traditional rechargeable systems (Pb-acid and Ni-MH) such as their higher energy density, low self-discharge, long capacity cycle life and relatively maintenance free. Due to their commercial advantages, a lot of research is done in developing new novel Li-ion electrode materials, improving existing ones and to reduce manufacturing costs in order to make them more cost effective in their applications. This study looked at the cathode material chemistry that has a typical spinel manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) type structure. For comparison the study also considered the influence of doping the phase with various metals such as Al, Mg, Co and Ni that were made as precursors using various carboxylic acids (Citric, Ascorbic, Succinic and Poly-acrylic acid) from a sol-gel process. Traditional batch methods of synthesizing the electrode material is costly and do not necessarily provide optimized electrochemical performance. Alternative continuous less energy intensive methods would help reduce the costs of the preparation of the electrode materials. This study investigated the influence of two synthesis techniques on the materials physical and electrochemical characteristics. These synthesis methods included the use of a typical batch sol-gel method and the continuous spray-drying technique. The spinel materials were prepared and characterized by Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD) to confirm the formation of various phases during the synthesis process. In addition, in-situ PXRD techniques were used to track the phase changes that occurred in the typical batch synthesis process from a sol-gel mixture to the final crystalline spinel oxide. The materials were also characterized by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), whereby the materials decomposition mechanisms were observed as the precursor was gradually heated to the final oxide. These synthesized materials prepared under various conditions were then used to build suitable Li-ion coin type of cells, whereby their electrochemical properties were tested by simple capacity tests and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). EIS measurements were done on the built cells with the various materials at various charge voltages. TG analysis showed that the materials underwent multiple decomposition steps upon heating for the doped lithium manganese oxides, whereas the undoped oxide showed only a single decomposition step. The results showed that all the materials achieved their weight loss below 400 °C, and that the final spinel oxide had already formed. The in-situ PXRD analysis showed the progression of the phase transitions where certain of the materials changed from a crystalline precursor to an amorphous intermediate phase and then finally to the spinel cathode oxide (Li1.03Mg0.2Mn1.77O4, and LiCo1.09Mn0.91O4). For other materials, the precursor would start as an amorphous phase, and then upon heating, convert into an impure intermediate phase (Mn2O3) before forming the final spinel oxide (Li1.03Mn1.97O4 and LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4). The in-situ study also showed the increases in the materials respective lattice parameters of the crystalline unit cells upon heating and the significant increases in their crystallite sizes when heated above 600 °C. Hence the results implied that a type of sintering of the particles would occur at temperatures above 600 °C, thereby increasing the respective crystallite size. The study showed that the cathode active materials made by the sol-gel spray-drying method would give a material that had a significantly larger surface area and a smaller crystallite size when compared to the materials made by the batch process. The electrochemical analysis showed that there was only a slight increase in the discharge capacities of the cells made with the spray-drying technique when compared to the cells made with the materials from the batch sol-gel technique. Whereas, the EIS study showed that there were distinct differences in the charging behavior of the cells made with the various materials using different synthesis techniques. The EIS results showed that there was a general decrease in the cells charge transfer resistance (Rct) as the charge potential increased regardless of the synthesis method used for the various materials. The results also showed that the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient (DLi) obtained from EIS measurements were in most of the samples higher for the cathode materials that had a larger surface area. This implied that the Li-ion could diffuse at a faster rate through the bulk material. The study concluded that by optimizing the synthesis process in terms of the careful control of the thermal parameters, the Li-ion batteries‟ cathode active material of the manganese spinel type could be optimized and be manufactured by using a continuous flow micro spray process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016