Spectroscopic characterization and photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy of phthalocyanine-silver triangular nanoprism conjugates when supported on asymmetric polymer membranes
- Mafukidze, Donovan M, Sindelo, Azole, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Mafukidze, Donovan M , Sindelo, Azole , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/186927 , vital:44548 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2019.04.054"
- Description: Silver triangular nanoprisms were synthesized and conjugated to zinc (ZnPc) and indium (InPc) phthalocyanines prior to embedding in asymmetric membranes. Conjugation of nanoparticles increased triplet state and singlet oxygen quantum yields of the phthalocyanines as well as enhancing photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) activity against bacteria (S. aureus). The ZnPc derivative showed higher PACT activity when compared to the InPc, possibly due to degradation of the latter in aqueous media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mafukidze, Donovan M , Sindelo, Azole , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/186927 , vital:44548 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2019.04.054"
- Description: Silver triangular nanoprisms were synthesized and conjugated to zinc (ZnPc) and indium (InPc) phthalocyanines prior to embedding in asymmetric membranes. Conjugation of nanoparticles increased triplet state and singlet oxygen quantum yields of the phthalocyanines as well as enhancing photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) activity against bacteria (S. aureus). The ZnPc derivative showed higher PACT activity when compared to the InPc, possibly due to degradation of the latter in aqueous media.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Spectroscopy based mapping of selected dominant rock types in the Balfour Formation (Beaufort Group), Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Qabaqaba, Mcebisi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: spectrum Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14693 , vital:40057
- Description: Lithological mapping of areas is crucial for both mineral resource identification and determination of ore concentrations. Without adequate knowledge on the extent of an area’s lithology, the above applications cannot be meaningfully accomplished. Spectroscopy-based mapping of rocks involves the use of portable reflectance spectrometers and digital maps to analyze, assess and map changes in rocks. Thereafter, understand and interpret the geochemical, physical and environmental processes that have an impact on the reflectance of the rocks while also making spatial and spectral links. Mapping lithology using remote sensing involves identification of rocks in remotely sensed images with lithological mapping being achievable through field and laboratory spectroscopy and creation of a spectral library. The main goal of this study was to measure, extract and analyze spectral signatures of dominant rocks within the Balfour Formation in order to create a spectral library that is capable of enabling, fast and cost-effective mapping of the spatial distributions of rocks within the Balfour Formation. The spectra of dominant rocks of the Balfour Formation were measured using the SR 3500 spectroradiometer. Different pre-processing techniques were applied to the acquired spectra such as smoothing, scatter correction and outlier detection. Random Forest classifier was used in the classification of the different rocks. Analysis of Variance and Bonferroni post hoc test were applied on the spectral signatures of different rocks to ascertain if there were any spectral differences between the absorption features in the spectra of the rocks. Landsat 8 imagery was used for classification of the different rocks within the Balfour Formation, maximum likelihood and spectral angle mapper were the two classifiers that were XI used. Maximum likelihood presented an accuracy of 76.19 % and 66.67 % for spectral angle mapper.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Qabaqaba, Mcebisi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: spectrum Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14693 , vital:40057
- Description: Lithological mapping of areas is crucial for both mineral resource identification and determination of ore concentrations. Without adequate knowledge on the extent of an area’s lithology, the above applications cannot be meaningfully accomplished. Spectroscopy-based mapping of rocks involves the use of portable reflectance spectrometers and digital maps to analyze, assess and map changes in rocks. Thereafter, understand and interpret the geochemical, physical and environmental processes that have an impact on the reflectance of the rocks while also making spatial and spectral links. Mapping lithology using remote sensing involves identification of rocks in remotely sensed images with lithological mapping being achievable through field and laboratory spectroscopy and creation of a spectral library. The main goal of this study was to measure, extract and analyze spectral signatures of dominant rocks within the Balfour Formation in order to create a spectral library that is capable of enabling, fast and cost-effective mapping of the spatial distributions of rocks within the Balfour Formation. The spectra of dominant rocks of the Balfour Formation were measured using the SR 3500 spectroradiometer. Different pre-processing techniques were applied to the acquired spectra such as smoothing, scatter correction and outlier detection. Random Forest classifier was used in the classification of the different rocks. Analysis of Variance and Bonferroni post hoc test were applied on the spectral signatures of different rocks to ascertain if there were any spectral differences between the absorption features in the spectra of the rocks. Landsat 8 imagery was used for classification of the different rocks within the Balfour Formation, maximum likelihood and spectral angle mapper were the two classifiers that were XI used. Maximum likelihood presented an accuracy of 76.19 % and 66.67 % for spectral angle mapper.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Stability indicating HPLC-ECD method for the analysis of clarithromycin in pharmaceutical dosage forms: Method scaling versus re-validation.
- Makoni, Pedzisai A, Chikukwa, Mellisa T R, Khamanga, Sandile M, Walker, Roderick B
- Authors: Makoni, Pedzisai A , Chikukwa, Mellisa T R , Khamanga, Sandile M , Walker, Roderick B
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/183387 , vital:43984 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm87040031"
- Description: An isocratic high-performance liquid chromatographic method using electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD) for the quantitation of clarithromycin (CLA) was developed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on a Central Composite Design (CCD). The method was validated using International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines with an analytical run time of 20 min. Method re-validation following a change in analytical column was successful in reducing the analytical run time to 13 min, decreasing solvent consumption thus facilitating environmental and financial sustainability. The applicability of using the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) method scaling approach in place of method re-validation using a column with a different L–designation to the original analytical column, was investigated. The scaled method met all USP system suitability requirements for resolution, tailing factor and % relative standard deviation (RSD). The re-validated and scaled method was successfully used to resolve CLA from manufacturing excipients in commercially available dosage forms. Although USP method scaling is only permitted for columns within the same L-designation, these data suggest that it may also be applicable to columns of different designation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Makoni, Pedzisai A , Chikukwa, Mellisa T R , Khamanga, Sandile M , Walker, Roderick B
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/183387 , vital:43984 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm87040031"
- Description: An isocratic high-performance liquid chromatographic method using electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD) for the quantitation of clarithromycin (CLA) was developed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on a Central Composite Design (CCD). The method was validated using International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines with an analytical run time of 20 min. Method re-validation following a change in analytical column was successful in reducing the analytical run time to 13 min, decreasing solvent consumption thus facilitating environmental and financial sustainability. The applicability of using the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) method scaling approach in place of method re-validation using a column with a different L–designation to the original analytical column, was investigated. The scaled method met all USP system suitability requirements for resolution, tailing factor and % relative standard deviation (RSD). The re-validated and scaled method was successfully used to resolve CLA from manufacturing excipients in commercially available dosage forms. Although USP method scaling is only permitted for columns within the same L-designation, these data suggest that it may also be applicable to columns of different designation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Stakeholder relationship management of a Chinese Mining Organisation in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial management -- Zimbabwe , Mineral industries -- Zimbabwe -- Management , Investments, Chinese -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115127 , vital:34080
- Description: Media reports and research has pointed out problems in the way that Chinese mining organisations in Zimbabwe are managing stakeholder relationships. The problems ranging from disgruntled communities and allegations of labour violations. Taking into account the impact that China’s FDI has had on the ailing Zimbabwean economy research into the management of stakeholder relationships becomes imperative to understand how Chinese mining organisations build and manage stakeholder relationships. A review of stakeholder theory has revealed that there is not much emphasis by researchers on how organisations manage their stakeholder relationships, but rather on the identification and analysis of stakeholders. Research that has focused on stakeholder relationships has focused on different elements found in stakeholder relationship management and not necessarily on how stakeholder relationships should be managed. On the other hand, stakeholder theory does not seem to include social licence to operate which is important in stakeholder relationship management within the mining context. The purpose of this study is to develop a multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process for the Chinese mining organisation in Zimbabwe, showing dynamic interactions between multiple stakeholder networks with complementary, competitive and/or cooperative interests, while taking into account the possibility that interests may vary according to the underlying context. Thirteen semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with three stakeholder groups of a Chinese mining organisation as identified from the literature, namely employees, government and the community. The critical incident technique (CIT) was adopted in developing the interview questions and facilitated the data collection process. Participants described 36 critical incidents. According to multiple stakeholders, the findings suggest that, the Chinese managers built the relationship with multiple stakeholders through friendship, negotiation, pretend not to understand, referral, singing a contract, started with problems, they just arrived and through the government. With the same relationship being managed by the Chinese managers by being hard, rough and ruthless, authoritative, Chinese way of doing things, used avoidance, lack of competency, through a third party and resolving conflict when managing stakeholder relationships. Showing that the building and managing of stakeholder relationships is socially constructed and experienced differently by stakeholders. The positive and negative relationship characteristics influenced how stakeholder relationships are managed by the selected Chinese mining organisation. In the presence of positive relationship characteristics which included, friendship,there was flexibility, power dynamics, accountability depends on situations, commitment a show of investment, do cooperate to a certain extent, trust began with an open mind, shared values: hardwork and profit, shared values: culture was associated with the Chinese managing the relationship through being kind, supportive, motivating and understanding; complaint; through a third party; controlling; Chinese way of doing things; and performance and reward management of stakeholder relationships. Whilst negative relationship characteristics which included fear, their hearts were hardened, Chinese had power, intimidaton, not accountable, lack of commitment, communication understanding, connotations and intretations, communication done through a third party; no cooperation want to cut coners; trust are they conveying what is being said; deception and misrepresentation; trust depends on experience; being told lies and not transparent were associated with negative (being authoritative; hard, rough and ruthless; avoidance; blame shifting and pushy) stakeholder relationship management by the Chinese managers. Hence, a proposition that negative or positive relationship characteristics result in negative or positive stakeholder relationship management by the Chinese managers was propossed. The following challenges were experienced in the management of stakeholder relationships namely, communication, corruption, cheating, political environment, working conditions and broken promises. The dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process was subsequently revised to accommodate the new relationship characteristics and their positive and negative influence on how stakeholder relationships are managed. The main contribution of this study is the dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process which was developed within the context of a Chinese mining organisation in Africa. It is recommended that practitioners utilise the dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process to assist them in understanding and conducting research on stakeholder relationships. Further research is suggested on developing the research proposition made in the study and to empirically test the dynamic multidimension stakeholder relationship management process in other industries that posses different or similar contexts as this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial management -- Zimbabwe , Mineral industries -- Zimbabwe -- Management , Investments, Chinese -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115127 , vital:34080
- Description: Media reports and research has pointed out problems in the way that Chinese mining organisations in Zimbabwe are managing stakeholder relationships. The problems ranging from disgruntled communities and allegations of labour violations. Taking into account the impact that China’s FDI has had on the ailing Zimbabwean economy research into the management of stakeholder relationships becomes imperative to understand how Chinese mining organisations build and manage stakeholder relationships. A review of stakeholder theory has revealed that there is not much emphasis by researchers on how organisations manage their stakeholder relationships, but rather on the identification and analysis of stakeholders. Research that has focused on stakeholder relationships has focused on different elements found in stakeholder relationship management and not necessarily on how stakeholder relationships should be managed. On the other hand, stakeholder theory does not seem to include social licence to operate which is important in stakeholder relationship management within the mining context. The purpose of this study is to develop a multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process for the Chinese mining organisation in Zimbabwe, showing dynamic interactions between multiple stakeholder networks with complementary, competitive and/or cooperative interests, while taking into account the possibility that interests may vary according to the underlying context. Thirteen semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with three stakeholder groups of a Chinese mining organisation as identified from the literature, namely employees, government and the community. The critical incident technique (CIT) was adopted in developing the interview questions and facilitated the data collection process. Participants described 36 critical incidents. According to multiple stakeholders, the findings suggest that, the Chinese managers built the relationship with multiple stakeholders through friendship, negotiation, pretend not to understand, referral, singing a contract, started with problems, they just arrived and through the government. With the same relationship being managed by the Chinese managers by being hard, rough and ruthless, authoritative, Chinese way of doing things, used avoidance, lack of competency, through a third party and resolving conflict when managing stakeholder relationships. Showing that the building and managing of stakeholder relationships is socially constructed and experienced differently by stakeholders. The positive and negative relationship characteristics influenced how stakeholder relationships are managed by the selected Chinese mining organisation. In the presence of positive relationship characteristics which included, friendship,there was flexibility, power dynamics, accountability depends on situations, commitment a show of investment, do cooperate to a certain extent, trust began with an open mind, shared values: hardwork and profit, shared values: culture was associated with the Chinese managing the relationship through being kind, supportive, motivating and understanding; complaint; through a third party; controlling; Chinese way of doing things; and performance and reward management of stakeholder relationships. Whilst negative relationship characteristics which included fear, their hearts were hardened, Chinese had power, intimidaton, not accountable, lack of commitment, communication understanding, connotations and intretations, communication done through a third party; no cooperation want to cut coners; trust are they conveying what is being said; deception and misrepresentation; trust depends on experience; being told lies and not transparent were associated with negative (being authoritative; hard, rough and ruthless; avoidance; blame shifting and pushy) stakeholder relationship management by the Chinese managers. Hence, a proposition that negative or positive relationship characteristics result in negative or positive stakeholder relationship management by the Chinese managers was propossed. The following challenges were experienced in the management of stakeholder relationships namely, communication, corruption, cheating, political environment, working conditions and broken promises. The dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process was subsequently revised to accommodate the new relationship characteristics and their positive and negative influence on how stakeholder relationships are managed. The main contribution of this study is the dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process which was developed within the context of a Chinese mining organisation in Africa. It is recommended that practitioners utilise the dynamic multidimensional stakeholder relationship management process to assist them in understanding and conducting research on stakeholder relationships. Further research is suggested on developing the research proposition made in the study and to empirically test the dynamic multidimension stakeholder relationship management process in other industries that posses different or similar contexts as this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Static and bootstrapped neuro-simulation for complex robots in evolutionary robotics
- Authors: Woodford, Grant Warren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44656 , vital:38172
- Description: Evolutionary Robotics (ER) is a field of study focused on the automatic development of controllers and robot morphologies. Evolving controllers on real-world hardware is time-consuming and can damage hardware through wear. Robotic simulators can be used as an alternative to a real-world robot in order to speed up the ER process. Most simulation techniques in practice use physics-based models that rely on an understanding of the robotic system in question. Developing effective physics-based simulators is time consuming and requires a significant level of specialised knowledge. A lengthy simulator development and tuning process is typically required before the ER process can begin. Artificial Neural Networks simulators (SNNs) can be used as an alternative to a physics based simulation approach. SNNs are simple to construct, do not require significant levels of prior knowledge of the robotic system, are computationally efficient and can be highly accurate. Two types of ER approaches utilising SNNs exist. The Static Neuro-Simulation (SNS) approach involves developing SNNs before the ER process where these SNNs are used instead of a physics-based simulator. Alternatively, SNNs can be developed during the ER process, called the Bootstrapped Neuro-Simulation (BNS) approach. Prior work investigating SNNs has largely been limited to simple robots. A complex robot has many degrees of freedom and ifa low-level controller design is used, the solution search space is high-dimensional and difficult to traverse. Prior work investigating the SNS and BNS approaches have mostly relied on simplified controller designs which rely on built-in prior knowledge of intended robot behaviours. This research uses low-level controller designs which in turn rely on low level simulators. Most ER studies are conducted on a single type of robot morphology. This research investigates the SNS and BNS approaches on two significantly different classes of robots. A Hexapod and Snake robot are used to study the SNS and BNS approaches. The Hexapod robot exhibits limbed, walking behaviours. The Snake robot is limbless and generates crawling behaviours. Demonstrating the viability of the SNS and BNS approaches for two different classes of robots provides strong evidence that the tested approaches are likely viable on other classes of robots. Various proposed improvements to the SNS and BNS approaches are investigated. The Results demonstrate that the SNS and BNS approaches are viable when applied to Hexapod and Snake robots without restricting controller designs to those with significant levels of built-in prior knowledge of robot behaviours. SNNs configured in ensembles improve the likely performance outcomes of solutions. The expected benefit of adding simulator noise during the evolutionary process were not as pronounced for problems investigated in this work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Woodford, Grant Warren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44656 , vital:38172
- Description: Evolutionary Robotics (ER) is a field of study focused on the automatic development of controllers and robot morphologies. Evolving controllers on real-world hardware is time-consuming and can damage hardware through wear. Robotic simulators can be used as an alternative to a real-world robot in order to speed up the ER process. Most simulation techniques in practice use physics-based models that rely on an understanding of the robotic system in question. Developing effective physics-based simulators is time consuming and requires a significant level of specialised knowledge. A lengthy simulator development and tuning process is typically required before the ER process can begin. Artificial Neural Networks simulators (SNNs) can be used as an alternative to a physics based simulation approach. SNNs are simple to construct, do not require significant levels of prior knowledge of the robotic system, are computationally efficient and can be highly accurate. Two types of ER approaches utilising SNNs exist. The Static Neuro-Simulation (SNS) approach involves developing SNNs before the ER process where these SNNs are used instead of a physics-based simulator. Alternatively, SNNs can be developed during the ER process, called the Bootstrapped Neuro-Simulation (BNS) approach. Prior work investigating SNNs has largely been limited to simple robots. A complex robot has many degrees of freedom and ifa low-level controller design is used, the solution search space is high-dimensional and difficult to traverse. Prior work investigating the SNS and BNS approaches have mostly relied on simplified controller designs which rely on built-in prior knowledge of intended robot behaviours. This research uses low-level controller designs which in turn rely on low level simulators. Most ER studies are conducted on a single type of robot morphology. This research investigates the SNS and BNS approaches on two significantly different classes of robots. A Hexapod and Snake robot are used to study the SNS and BNS approaches. The Hexapod robot exhibits limbed, walking behaviours. The Snake robot is limbless and generates crawling behaviours. Demonstrating the viability of the SNS and BNS approaches for two different classes of robots provides strong evidence that the tested approaches are likely viable on other classes of robots. Various proposed improvements to the SNS and BNS approaches are investigated. The Results demonstrate that the SNS and BNS approaches are viable when applied to Hexapod and Snake robots without restricting controller designs to those with significant levels of built-in prior knowledge of robot behaviours. SNNs configured in ensembles improve the likely performance outcomes of solutions. The expected benefit of adding simulator noise during the evolutionary process were not as pronounced for problems investigated in this work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Statistical Analysis of the Radio-Interferometric Measurement Equation, a derived adaptive weighting scheme, and applications to LOFAR-VLBI observation of the Extended Groth Strip
- Authors: Bonnassieux, Etienne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Radio astronomy , Astrophysics , Astrophysics -- Instruments -- Calibration , Imaging systems in astronomy , Radio interferometers , Radio telescopes , Astronomy -- Observations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93789 , vital:30942
- Description: J.R.R Tolkien wrote, in his Mythopoeia, that “He sees no stars who does not see them first, of living silver made that sudden burst, to flame like flowers beneath the ancient song”. In his defense of myth-making, he formulates the argument that the attribution of meaning is an act of creation - that “trees are not ‘trees’ until so named and seen” - and that this capacity for creation defines the human creature. The scientific endeavour, in this context, can be understood as a social expression of a fundamental feature of humanity, and from this endeavour flows much understanding. This thesis, one thread among many, focuses on the study of astronomical objects as seen by the radio waves they emit. What are radio waves? Electromagnetic waves were theorised by James Clerk Maxwell (Maxwell 1864) in his great theoretical contribution to modern physics, their speed matching the speed of light as measured by Ole Christensen R0mer and, later, James Bradley. It was not until Heinrich Rudolf Hertz’s 1887 experiment that these waves were measured in a laboratory, leading to the dawn of radio communications - and, later, radio astronomy. The link between radio waves and light was one of association: light is known to behave as a wave (Young double-slit experiment), with the same propagation speed as electromagnetic radiation. Light “proper” is also known to exist beyond the optical regime: Herschel’s experiment shows that when diffracted through a prism, sunlight warms even those parts of a desk which are not observed to be lit (first evidence of infrared light). The link between optical light and unseen electromagnetic radiation is then an easy step to make, and one confirmed through countless technological applications (e.g. optical fiber to name but one). And as soon as this link is established, a question immediately comes to the mind of the astronomer: what does the sky, our Universe, look like to the radio “eye”? Radio astronomy has a short but storied history: from Karl Jansky’s serendipitous observation of the centre of the Milky Way, which outshines our Sun in the radio regime, in 1933, to Grote Reber’s hand-built back-yard radio antenna in 1937, which successfully detected radio emission from the Milky Way itself, to such monumental projects as the Square Kilometer Array and its multiple pathfinders, it has led to countless discoveries and the opening of a truly new window on the Universe. The work presented in this thesis is a contribution to this discipline - the culmination of three years of study, which is a rather short time to get a firm grasp of radio interferometry both in theory and in practice. The need for robust, automated methods - which are improving daily, thanks to the tireless labour of the scientists in the field - is becoming ever stronger as the SKA approaches, looming large on the horizon; but even today, in the precursor era of LOFAR, MeerKAT and other pathfinders, it is keenly felt. When I started my doctorate, the sheer scale of the task at hand felt overwhelming - to actually be able to contribute to its resolution seemed daunting indeed! Thankfully, as the saying goes, no society sets for itself material goals which it cannot achieve. This thesis took place at an exciting time for radio interferometry: at the start of my doctorate, the LOFAR international stations were - to my knowledge - only beginning to be used, and even then, only tentatively; MeerKAT had not yet shown its first light; the techniques used throughout my work were still being developed. At the time of writing, great strides have been made. One of the greatest technical challenges of LOFAR - imaging using the international stations - is starting to become reality. This technical challenge is the key problem that this thesis set out to address. While we only achieved partial success so far, it is a testament to the difficulty of the task that it is not yet truly resolved. One of the major results of this thesis is a model of a bright resolved source near a famous extragalactic field: properly modeling this source not only allows the use of international LOFAR stations, but also grants deeper access to the extragalactic field itself, which is otherwise polluted by the 3C source’s sidelobes. This result was only achieved thanks to the other major result of this thesis: the development of a theoretical framework with which to better understand the effect of calibration errors on images made from interferometric data, and an algorithm to strongly mitigate them. The structure of this manuscript is as follows: we begin with an introduction to radio interferometry, LOFAR, and the emission mechanisms which dominate for our field of interest. These introductions are primarily intended to give a brief overview of the technical aspects of the data reduced in this thesis. We follow with an overview of the Measurement Equation formalism, which underpins our theoretical work. This is the keystone of this thesis. We then show the theoretical work that was developed as part of the research work done during the doctorate - which was published in Astronomy & Astrophysics. Its practical application - a quality-based weighting scheme - is used throughout our data reduction. This data reduction is the next topic of this thesis: we contextualise the scientific interest of the data we reduce, and explain both the methods and the results we achieve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bonnassieux, Etienne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Radio astronomy , Astrophysics , Astrophysics -- Instruments -- Calibration , Imaging systems in astronomy , Radio interferometers , Radio telescopes , Astronomy -- Observations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93789 , vital:30942
- Description: J.R.R Tolkien wrote, in his Mythopoeia, that “He sees no stars who does not see them first, of living silver made that sudden burst, to flame like flowers beneath the ancient song”. In his defense of myth-making, he formulates the argument that the attribution of meaning is an act of creation - that “trees are not ‘trees’ until so named and seen” - and that this capacity for creation defines the human creature. The scientific endeavour, in this context, can be understood as a social expression of a fundamental feature of humanity, and from this endeavour flows much understanding. This thesis, one thread among many, focuses on the study of astronomical objects as seen by the radio waves they emit. What are radio waves? Electromagnetic waves were theorised by James Clerk Maxwell (Maxwell 1864) in his great theoretical contribution to modern physics, their speed matching the speed of light as measured by Ole Christensen R0mer and, later, James Bradley. It was not until Heinrich Rudolf Hertz’s 1887 experiment that these waves were measured in a laboratory, leading to the dawn of radio communications - and, later, radio astronomy. The link between radio waves and light was one of association: light is known to behave as a wave (Young double-slit experiment), with the same propagation speed as electromagnetic radiation. Light “proper” is also known to exist beyond the optical regime: Herschel’s experiment shows that when diffracted through a prism, sunlight warms even those parts of a desk which are not observed to be lit (first evidence of infrared light). The link between optical light and unseen electromagnetic radiation is then an easy step to make, and one confirmed through countless technological applications (e.g. optical fiber to name but one). And as soon as this link is established, a question immediately comes to the mind of the astronomer: what does the sky, our Universe, look like to the radio “eye”? Radio astronomy has a short but storied history: from Karl Jansky’s serendipitous observation of the centre of the Milky Way, which outshines our Sun in the radio regime, in 1933, to Grote Reber’s hand-built back-yard radio antenna in 1937, which successfully detected radio emission from the Milky Way itself, to such monumental projects as the Square Kilometer Array and its multiple pathfinders, it has led to countless discoveries and the opening of a truly new window on the Universe. The work presented in this thesis is a contribution to this discipline - the culmination of three years of study, which is a rather short time to get a firm grasp of radio interferometry both in theory and in practice. The need for robust, automated methods - which are improving daily, thanks to the tireless labour of the scientists in the field - is becoming ever stronger as the SKA approaches, looming large on the horizon; but even today, in the precursor era of LOFAR, MeerKAT and other pathfinders, it is keenly felt. When I started my doctorate, the sheer scale of the task at hand felt overwhelming - to actually be able to contribute to its resolution seemed daunting indeed! Thankfully, as the saying goes, no society sets for itself material goals which it cannot achieve. This thesis took place at an exciting time for radio interferometry: at the start of my doctorate, the LOFAR international stations were - to my knowledge - only beginning to be used, and even then, only tentatively; MeerKAT had not yet shown its first light; the techniques used throughout my work were still being developed. At the time of writing, great strides have been made. One of the greatest technical challenges of LOFAR - imaging using the international stations - is starting to become reality. This technical challenge is the key problem that this thesis set out to address. While we only achieved partial success so far, it is a testament to the difficulty of the task that it is not yet truly resolved. One of the major results of this thesis is a model of a bright resolved source near a famous extragalactic field: properly modeling this source not only allows the use of international LOFAR stations, but also grants deeper access to the extragalactic field itself, which is otherwise polluted by the 3C source’s sidelobes. This result was only achieved thanks to the other major result of this thesis: the development of a theoretical framework with which to better understand the effect of calibration errors on images made from interferometric data, and an algorithm to strongly mitigate them. The structure of this manuscript is as follows: we begin with an introduction to radio interferometry, LOFAR, and the emission mechanisms which dominate for our field of interest. These introductions are primarily intended to give a brief overview of the technical aspects of the data reduced in this thesis. We follow with an overview of the Measurement Equation formalism, which underpins our theoretical work. This is the keystone of this thesis. We then show the theoretical work that was developed as part of the research work done during the doctorate - which was published in Astronomy & Astrophysics. Its practical application - a quality-based weighting scheme - is used throughout our data reduction. This data reduction is the next topic of this thesis: we contextualise the scientific interest of the data we reduce, and explain both the methods and the results we achieve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Statistical optimisation of a terbinafine-containing cream
- Authors: Strydom, Lana
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Chemicals -- Physiological effect , Pharmaceutical chemistry Medical microbiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44067 , vital:37101
- Description: Terbinafine hydrochloride (TBH) belongs to the allylamine class of antifungals and displays a favourable dermatopharmacokinetic profile, being both lipophilic and keratinophilic. It has thus been included in a variety of topical dosage forms for the treatment of dermatomycoses, many of which have been the subject of optimisation studies, with the purpose of improving the product. Since a TBH-containing cream had not been found in literature to have been optimised before, the aim of this study was to optimise a TBH cream formulation. A TBH cream formulation, suitable for optimisation, was developed. Preformulation tests were undertaken, including active-excipient compatibility testing using a combined thermal method consisting of both differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), as well as isothermal stress testing (IST). With the confirmation of the suitability of the selected excipients, development of a suitable TBH cream took place largely by a trial-and-error approach. The choice of a suitable formulation was made based on the physical appearance and viscosity of the cream, for which a viscosity specification was set. The identified TBH cream formulation was evaluated for its physical appearance and physicochemical aspects to confirm its appropriateness for the purpose of further optimisation. Based on literature and observations from the preformulation and formulation stage, factors and responses for study during the optimisation stage were identified to study using a circumscribed central composite design (CCCD) at five levels (-1.612, -1, 0, +1, +1.612). Total percentage of surfactant (TPS), homogenisation speed (HS) and cooling rate (CR), were selected as factors to study their influence on cream viscosity, in vitro TBH release from the cream, as well as the chemical stability of TBH within the cream formulation. Following the application of stepwise multiple linear regression to the mathematical models, a suitable prediction model was only obtained for one response, cream viscosity at a shear rate of 20 s-1. A linear model was also found to fit the data for % in vitro TBH release after one hour, although a low R2 of 0.497 made the model unsuitable for prediction purposes. No mathematical model could be fit to the results for the response assessing the change in TBH concentration following seven days’ storage at accelerated stability conditions. The determination of the optimum TBH cream formulation was made chiefly on the basis of the results for cream viscosity and the optimised formulation was identified to have a predicted viscosity of 8.33 Pa.s and the factor settings to obtain this cream were a CR of 1.3 °C/min, HS set at 3400 rpm, and TPS of 4.2 %. Validation of the optimised TBH cream formulation was performed for cream viscosity at a shear rate of 20 s-1 and revealed that there was good agreement between the measured and predicted viscosity values. The optimised TBH cream underwent rheological characterisation and was compared to the innovator, Lamisil® cream, with both creams found to meet the desirable rheological profile. In vitro release testing (IVRT) was used to compare the release of TBH from the optimised TBH cream and Lamisil® cream, and the optimised TBH cream was found to show much greater TBH release over a six-hour time period than Lamisil® cream. Stability testing of the optimised TBH cream took place at accelerated stability testing conditions of 40 °C ± 2 °C and 75 ± 5 % relative humidity (RH). To assay the formulation and determine content uniformity over the three-month storage period, a suitable stability-indicating reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated. Other cream properties which were tested included: qualitative aspects, viscosity, pH and microbial limits. At the end of the three-month stability testing period, the cream was found to meet most of the specifications set, except for cream homogeneity and viscosity. A TBH cream formulation was thus developed and optimised to meet a certain viscosity specification. Although this formulation was found to meet the viscosity specification on the day after its manufacture, the viscosity was found to increase on storage, such that it was outside the set viscosity specification range.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Strydom, Lana
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Chemicals -- Physiological effect , Pharmaceutical chemistry Medical microbiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44067 , vital:37101
- Description: Terbinafine hydrochloride (TBH) belongs to the allylamine class of antifungals and displays a favourable dermatopharmacokinetic profile, being both lipophilic and keratinophilic. It has thus been included in a variety of topical dosage forms for the treatment of dermatomycoses, many of which have been the subject of optimisation studies, with the purpose of improving the product. Since a TBH-containing cream had not been found in literature to have been optimised before, the aim of this study was to optimise a TBH cream formulation. A TBH cream formulation, suitable for optimisation, was developed. Preformulation tests were undertaken, including active-excipient compatibility testing using a combined thermal method consisting of both differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), as well as isothermal stress testing (IST). With the confirmation of the suitability of the selected excipients, development of a suitable TBH cream took place largely by a trial-and-error approach. The choice of a suitable formulation was made based on the physical appearance and viscosity of the cream, for which a viscosity specification was set. The identified TBH cream formulation was evaluated for its physical appearance and physicochemical aspects to confirm its appropriateness for the purpose of further optimisation. Based on literature and observations from the preformulation and formulation stage, factors and responses for study during the optimisation stage were identified to study using a circumscribed central composite design (CCCD) at five levels (-1.612, -1, 0, +1, +1.612). Total percentage of surfactant (TPS), homogenisation speed (HS) and cooling rate (CR), were selected as factors to study their influence on cream viscosity, in vitro TBH release from the cream, as well as the chemical stability of TBH within the cream formulation. Following the application of stepwise multiple linear regression to the mathematical models, a suitable prediction model was only obtained for one response, cream viscosity at a shear rate of 20 s-1. A linear model was also found to fit the data for % in vitro TBH release after one hour, although a low R2 of 0.497 made the model unsuitable for prediction purposes. No mathematical model could be fit to the results for the response assessing the change in TBH concentration following seven days’ storage at accelerated stability conditions. The determination of the optimum TBH cream formulation was made chiefly on the basis of the results for cream viscosity and the optimised formulation was identified to have a predicted viscosity of 8.33 Pa.s and the factor settings to obtain this cream were a CR of 1.3 °C/min, HS set at 3400 rpm, and TPS of 4.2 %. Validation of the optimised TBH cream formulation was performed for cream viscosity at a shear rate of 20 s-1 and revealed that there was good agreement between the measured and predicted viscosity values. The optimised TBH cream underwent rheological characterisation and was compared to the innovator, Lamisil® cream, with both creams found to meet the desirable rheological profile. In vitro release testing (IVRT) was used to compare the release of TBH from the optimised TBH cream and Lamisil® cream, and the optimised TBH cream was found to show much greater TBH release over a six-hour time period than Lamisil® cream. Stability testing of the optimised TBH cream took place at accelerated stability testing conditions of 40 °C ± 2 °C and 75 ± 5 % relative humidity (RH). To assay the formulation and determine content uniformity over the three-month storage period, a suitable stability-indicating reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated. Other cream properties which were tested included: qualitative aspects, viscosity, pH and microbial limits. At the end of the three-month stability testing period, the cream was found to meet most of the specifications set, except for cream homogeneity and viscosity. A TBH cream formulation was thus developed and optimised to meet a certain viscosity specification. Although this formulation was found to meet the viscosity specification on the day after its manufacture, the viscosity was found to increase on storage, such that it was outside the set viscosity specification range.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Statistical study of traveling ionospheric disturbances over South Africa
- Authors: Mahlangu, Daniel Fiso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Gravity waves , Magnetic storms
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76387 , vital:30556
- Description: This thesis provides a statistical analysis of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) in South Africa. The velocities of the TIDs were determined from total electron content (TEC) maps using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The periods were determined using Morlet function in wavelet analysis. The TIDs were grouped into four categories: daytime, twilight, nighttime TIDs, and those TIDs that occurred during magnetic storms. It was found that daytime medium scale TIDs (MSTIDs) propagated equatorward in all seasons (summer, autumn, winter, and spring), with velocities of about 114 to 213 m/s. Their maximum occurrence was in winter between 15:00 and 16:00 LT. The daytime large scale (TIDs) LSTIDs propagated equatorward with velocities of approximately 455 to 767 m/s. Their highest occurrence was in summer, between 12:00-13:00 LT. Most of the these TIDs (about 78%) were observed during the passing of the morning solar terminator. This implied that the morning terminator was more effective in instigating TIDs. Only a few nighttime TIDs were observed and therefore their behavior could not be statistically inferred. The TIDs that occurred during magnetically disturbed conditions propagated equatorward. This indicated that their source mechanism was atmospheric gravity waves generated at the onset of geomagnetic storms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mahlangu, Daniel Fiso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Gravity waves , Magnetic storms
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76387 , vital:30556
- Description: This thesis provides a statistical analysis of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) in South Africa. The velocities of the TIDs were determined from total electron content (TEC) maps using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The periods were determined using Morlet function in wavelet analysis. The TIDs were grouped into four categories: daytime, twilight, nighttime TIDs, and those TIDs that occurred during magnetic storms. It was found that daytime medium scale TIDs (MSTIDs) propagated equatorward in all seasons (summer, autumn, winter, and spring), with velocities of about 114 to 213 m/s. Their maximum occurrence was in winter between 15:00 and 16:00 LT. The daytime large scale (TIDs) LSTIDs propagated equatorward with velocities of approximately 455 to 767 m/s. Their highest occurrence was in summer, between 12:00-13:00 LT. Most of the these TIDs (about 78%) were observed during the passing of the morning solar terminator. This implied that the morning terminator was more effective in instigating TIDs. Only a few nighttime TIDs were observed and therefore their behavior could not be statistically inferred. The TIDs that occurred during magnetically disturbed conditions propagated equatorward. This indicated that their source mechanism was atmospheric gravity waves generated at the onset of geomagnetic storms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Status of ethics at Road Accident Fund and implications of non-compliance to the sustainability of the fund
- Heshula, Unathi Sandisa Yvone Joy
- Authors: Heshula, Unathi Sandisa Yvone Joy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Automobile insurance -- South Africa Business ethics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40183 , vital:35966
- Description: The South Africa public sector is responsible for providing essential services to its citizens. It possesses resources to ensure that these services are provided effectively and efficiently. Part of this investigation has spent on inquiring and understanding the prevalence of the ethics at Road Accident Fund. The research instrument was designed to probe the concept, ethical dilemmas faced and reasons of possible noncompliance, structured interviews were conducted.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Heshula, Unathi Sandisa Yvone Joy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Automobile insurance -- South Africa Business ethics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40183 , vital:35966
- Description: The South Africa public sector is responsible for providing essential services to its citizens. It possesses resources to ensure that these services are provided effectively and efficiently. Part of this investigation has spent on inquiring and understanding the prevalence of the ethics at Road Accident Fund. The research instrument was designed to probe the concept, ethical dilemmas faced and reasons of possible noncompliance, structured interviews were conducted.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategic effectiveness of a partnership between the municipality and the business sector in George
- Authors: Meiring, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Partnership -- South Africa -- Western Cape Strategic alliances (Business) Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41427 , vital:36482
- Description: The purpose of the research is to evaluate how the municipality and the business sector in George can work together for the future of George and to develop a proposal for such a strategic partnership. The goal of this research is to evaluate the current strategic partnerships within the town of George, to assess the readiness for a strategic partnership in the George region and to develop a theoretical model of how a town could partner with the business sector for inclusive economic growth, through the examination of the key success factors for such a partnership. This research provides useful insight into the factors that will contribute to a partnership between the business sector and local government ensuring the future of George. This research considers the current situation in George and proposes a cross-sector partnership approach to ensure not only city competitiveness but also further growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Meiring, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Partnership -- South Africa -- Western Cape Strategic alliances (Business) Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41427 , vital:36482
- Description: The purpose of the research is to evaluate how the municipality and the business sector in George can work together for the future of George and to develop a proposal for such a strategic partnership. The goal of this research is to evaluate the current strategic partnerships within the town of George, to assess the readiness for a strategic partnership in the George region and to develop a theoretical model of how a town could partner with the business sector for inclusive economic growth, through the examination of the key success factors for such a partnership. This research provides useful insight into the factors that will contribute to a partnership between the business sector and local government ensuring the future of George. This research considers the current situation in George and proposes a cross-sector partnership approach to ensure not only city competitiveness but also further growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategic service quality challenges within Metrorail in the Western Cape
- Skosana, Nkosinathi Thembinkosi
- Authors: Skosana, Nkosinathi Thembinkosi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Customer relations -- Management Railroads -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43368 , vital:36862
- Description: Service quality has become a major area of attention for organisations as there is proven research that highlights a strong link between business performance, customer loyalty, profitability and customer satisfaction. Therefore, understanding factors that influences the organisations service quality becomes vital for managements (Fukey & Issac, 2014). According to (Kotler, 1991), the main objective of any transport organisation is to achieve passenger satisfaction and loyalty, as well as a superior quality service which is envisioned to keep the service provider at a competitive position in the field of passenger transportation. The primary research problem in this study is to understand perceived service quality challenges within Metrorail Western Cape. The study employs a modified SERVPERF models in developing a model suitable for testing the perception of commuter in public rail transport. In order to assess this, the study adopts a Positivistic view with the aim to produce quantifiable data, through the use of large samples and the testing of hypotheses. The study is quantitative in principle. Quantitative study supports the use of surveys as a means of data collection and because the data is quantitative, this allows the use of rigorous statistical analyses in order come to a conclusion or finding. The results of this are of a descriptive nature and can easily be used to infer to a larger population. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed electronically using the Questionpro links and manually distributed at stations. From the distributed total, a total of 257 responses were received and analysed using software package STATISTICA with the assistance of a qualified statistician. The key findings indicate that according to the perception of commuters, Metrorail service quality is below the expected levels. The major arears of importance for commuters in Western Cape are safety, communications and reliability of the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Skosana, Nkosinathi Thembinkosi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Customer relations -- Management Railroads -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43368 , vital:36862
- Description: Service quality has become a major area of attention for organisations as there is proven research that highlights a strong link between business performance, customer loyalty, profitability and customer satisfaction. Therefore, understanding factors that influences the organisations service quality becomes vital for managements (Fukey & Issac, 2014). According to (Kotler, 1991), the main objective of any transport organisation is to achieve passenger satisfaction and loyalty, as well as a superior quality service which is envisioned to keep the service provider at a competitive position in the field of passenger transportation. The primary research problem in this study is to understand perceived service quality challenges within Metrorail Western Cape. The study employs a modified SERVPERF models in developing a model suitable for testing the perception of commuter in public rail transport. In order to assess this, the study adopts a Positivistic view with the aim to produce quantifiable data, through the use of large samples and the testing of hypotheses. The study is quantitative in principle. Quantitative study supports the use of surveys as a means of data collection and because the data is quantitative, this allows the use of rigorous statistical analyses in order come to a conclusion or finding. The results of this are of a descriptive nature and can easily be used to infer to a larger population. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed electronically using the Questionpro links and manually distributed at stations. From the distributed total, a total of 257 responses were received and analysed using software package STATISTICA with the assistance of a qualified statistician. The key findings indicate that according to the perception of commuters, Metrorail service quality is below the expected levels. The major arears of importance for commuters in Western Cape are safety, communications and reliability of the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategies schools in a low-socio-economic are used to maintain discipline
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporal punishment -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44550 , vital:38143
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. This study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporal punishment -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44550 , vital:38143
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. This study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategies schools in a low-socio-economic area use to maintain discipline
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Med
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44512 , vital:38069
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. Study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Med
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44512 , vital:38069
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. Study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strength and Sprint Time Changes in Response to Repeated Shuttles Between the Wickets During Batting in Cricket
- Christie, Candice J, Sheppard, Bronwyn J, Goble, David, Pote, Lee, Noakes, Timothy
- Authors: Christie, Candice J , Sheppard, Bronwyn J , Goble, David , Pote, Lee , Noakes, Timothy
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/127133 , vital:35959 , https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000002585
- Description: Christie CJ, Sheppard B, Goble D, Pote L, and Noakes TD. Strength and sprint time changes in response to repeated shuttles between the wickets during batting in cricket. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2018—No studies have investigated the impact of repeated sprints between the wickets on lower-limb strength and sprint performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess changes in knee extensor (EXT) and flexor (FLEX) strength after repeated sprints between the wickets and to relate these to changes in sprint times. Twenty batters completed 2 conditions: onewas high-volume running (HVR-twelve sprints per over) and the other, moderate-volume running (MVR-6 sprints per over) between the wickets (42 deliveries in both). Peak isokinetic torque was measured before and after each condition and sprint times were recorded. Eccentric and concentric peak torque decreased significantly (p , 0.05) at 1.05 rad˙s ̄1 for knee EXT in both conditions. There was an 18% (HVR) and 10% (MVR) decline in concentric and eccentric knee EXT peak torque. Peak FLEX torques were significantly (p , 0.05) reduced after HVR (16.7%) but not after the MVR condition (8%). There were similar declines in eccentric FLEX peak torque. Sprint times increased significantly (p , 0.05) during the HVR condition but not in the MVR condition; sprint times in the HVR condition were compromised as early as the third over. We conclude that a high volume of runs significantly reduces muscle function in the lower limbs, partly explaining the impairment in sprint performance. However, because batters slowed as early as the third over in the HVR condition, there may be some form of strategy used in anticipation of a higher overall workload. More middle wicket practices, focusing on repeat shuttle sprints while batting, should be included in the coaching program.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Christie, Candice J , Sheppard, Bronwyn J , Goble, David , Pote, Lee , Noakes, Timothy
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/127133 , vital:35959 , https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000002585
- Description: Christie CJ, Sheppard B, Goble D, Pote L, and Noakes TD. Strength and sprint time changes in response to repeated shuttles between the wickets during batting in cricket. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2018—No studies have investigated the impact of repeated sprints between the wickets on lower-limb strength and sprint performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess changes in knee extensor (EXT) and flexor (FLEX) strength after repeated sprints between the wickets and to relate these to changes in sprint times. Twenty batters completed 2 conditions: onewas high-volume running (HVR-twelve sprints per over) and the other, moderate-volume running (MVR-6 sprints per over) between the wickets (42 deliveries in both). Peak isokinetic torque was measured before and after each condition and sprint times were recorded. Eccentric and concentric peak torque decreased significantly (p , 0.05) at 1.05 rad˙s ̄1 for knee EXT in both conditions. There was an 18% (HVR) and 10% (MVR) decline in concentric and eccentric knee EXT peak torque. Peak FLEX torques were significantly (p , 0.05) reduced after HVR (16.7%) but not after the MVR condition (8%). There were similar declines in eccentric FLEX peak torque. Sprint times increased significantly (p , 0.05) during the HVR condition but not in the MVR condition; sprint times in the HVR condition were compromised as early as the third over. We conclude that a high volume of runs significantly reduces muscle function in the lower limbs, partly explaining the impairment in sprint performance. However, because batters slowed as early as the third over in the HVR condition, there may be some form of strategy used in anticipation of a higher overall workload. More middle wicket practices, focusing on repeat shuttle sprints while batting, should be included in the coaching program.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Structural violence on economically independent women aged between 30 and 50 years in Nairobi
- Authors: Ndungu, Shelmith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Sex role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Social role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Women -- Economic conditions Women and socialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42891 , vital:36703
- Description: The reasons patriarchal structural violence on economically independent women continues to happen are not fully understood. Most studies have been focused on socio-economic factors that influence women to stay in abusive relationships and the interventions that address these factors. However, the problem goes beyond economic ability. This study aimed to provide insight which can serve as the basis for remedial action and ultimately the development of an international standard prohibiting women’s abuse and domestic violence in families. The study focused on two key objectives; the role of culture and patriarchy in maintaining structural violence. The study aimed to investigate how these variables influence women’s decision to continue staying in abusive relationships. The target population was people working in non-governmental organisations which deal with domestic violence survivors in Nairobi, Kenya. A sample of 12 respondents was utilised in a qualitative study. The study employed qualitative interviews whose data were thematically analysed. Results indicate that gender based violence can start early in the relationship sometimes even during courtship. What changes over time is the severity of the violence. The main type of abuse experienced by the women visiting the sampled centres was physical abuse. The main reason given for staying in an abusive relationship is the fear that their children would be abused if left with the abusive partner. Societal norms also emerged as a barrier for women in abusive relationships. The study recommends creation of awareness in the general population on how to identify gender-based violence for the purpose of intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ndungu, Shelmith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Sex role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Social role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Women -- Economic conditions Women and socialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42891 , vital:36703
- Description: The reasons patriarchal structural violence on economically independent women continues to happen are not fully understood. Most studies have been focused on socio-economic factors that influence women to stay in abusive relationships and the interventions that address these factors. However, the problem goes beyond economic ability. This study aimed to provide insight which can serve as the basis for remedial action and ultimately the development of an international standard prohibiting women’s abuse and domestic violence in families. The study focused on two key objectives; the role of culture and patriarchy in maintaining structural violence. The study aimed to investigate how these variables influence women’s decision to continue staying in abusive relationships. The target population was people working in non-governmental organisations which deal with domestic violence survivors in Nairobi, Kenya. A sample of 12 respondents was utilised in a qualitative study. The study employed qualitative interviews whose data were thematically analysed. Results indicate that gender based violence can start early in the relationship sometimes even during courtship. What changes over time is the severity of the violence. The main type of abuse experienced by the women visiting the sampled centres was physical abuse. The main reason given for staying in an abusive relationship is the fear that their children would be abused if left with the abusive partner. Societal norms also emerged as a barrier for women in abusive relationships. The study recommends creation of awareness in the general population on how to identify gender-based violence for the purpose of intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Student counsellors’ utilisation of the wellness questionnaire for higher education in a student counselling centre
- Authors: Smith, Bianca Simone
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Counseling psychology , College students -- Psychological aspects College students -- Mental health Universities and colleges -- Health promotion services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43346 , vital:36860
- Description: Students face a variety of stressors, such as personal, career and/or academic/learning concerns and often seek counselling from student counselling centres at their respective Higher Education institutions. Wellness counselling is aimed at assisting clients to prevent illnesses from developing and to create and maintain healthy lifestyle choices. A wellness counselling model includes a step-by-step approach and one step is to conduct a wellness assessment. Several wellness assessments exist but it was found that the assessments were not applicable for the SA student population, and so the Wellness Questionnaire for Higher Education (WQHE) was developed. As the WQHE is a relatively new assessment, there is not much research that has been conducted, specifically there is no research based on the counselling process following the administration of the assessment. Therefore, this study seeks to explore and describe how counsellors administered and utilised the WQHE as part of the counselling process. The research sample consisted of nine participants who administered the WQHE with their clients. Purposive sampling was the non-probability strategy employed, therefore participants were invited to attend an individual semi-structured interview. The implications of the findings are that the WQHE is a useful and viable assessment to assist clients resolve their difficulties and improve their functioning. The WQHE can be administered to clients who present with a variety of presenting problems. The WQHE can be used effectively alongside a variety of counselling theories/frameworks and other psychometric or self-assessments. The administration of the WQHE in itself was found to be useful as it educated and empowered the clients to understand their wellness levels and to provide them with a holistic view of themselves. Furthermore, the clients felt educated to understand their wellness levels and broaden their understanding of the wellness dimensions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Smith, Bianca Simone
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Counseling psychology , College students -- Psychological aspects College students -- Mental health Universities and colleges -- Health promotion services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43346 , vital:36860
- Description: Students face a variety of stressors, such as personal, career and/or academic/learning concerns and often seek counselling from student counselling centres at their respective Higher Education institutions. Wellness counselling is aimed at assisting clients to prevent illnesses from developing and to create and maintain healthy lifestyle choices. A wellness counselling model includes a step-by-step approach and one step is to conduct a wellness assessment. Several wellness assessments exist but it was found that the assessments were not applicable for the SA student population, and so the Wellness Questionnaire for Higher Education (WQHE) was developed. As the WQHE is a relatively new assessment, there is not much research that has been conducted, specifically there is no research based on the counselling process following the administration of the assessment. Therefore, this study seeks to explore and describe how counsellors administered and utilised the WQHE as part of the counselling process. The research sample consisted of nine participants who administered the WQHE with their clients. Purposive sampling was the non-probability strategy employed, therefore participants were invited to attend an individual semi-structured interview. The implications of the findings are that the WQHE is a useful and viable assessment to assist clients resolve their difficulties and improve their functioning. The WQHE can be administered to clients who present with a variety of presenting problems. The WQHE can be used effectively alongside a variety of counselling theories/frameworks and other psychometric or self-assessments. The administration of the WQHE in itself was found to be useful as it educated and empowered the clients to understand their wellness levels and to provide them with a holistic view of themselves. Furthermore, the clients felt educated to understand their wellness levels and broaden their understanding of the wellness dimensions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Student perceptions of online infidelity
- Authors: Bands, Luke
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adultery , Online dating Sex -- Social aspects Sex -- Psychological aspects , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42096 , vital:36625
- Description: There has been a large amount of research on infidelity and its effects on relationships. However, a new phenomenon, that of online infidelity, has emerged and with it comes some confusion as to what exactly constitutes an act of infidelity while exploring the limits of cyberspace. While some research has been done internationally on the perceptions of online infidelity, studies conducted in South Africa are lacking. The aim of the present study was to explore and describe student perceptions of online infidelity. Social Constructionism was used as the theoretical framework for the study. A qualitative approach was used and the study was exploratory and descriptive in design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, with the sample size of the study being twelve. Thematic analysis, as outlined by Braun and Clarke, was used in order to analyse the obtained data. Two main themes emerged, namely Defining Online Infidelity, and Reasons Surrounding Perceptions of Online Infidelity. The findings of the present study will provide a better understanding of perceptions of online infidelity within the South African context, and can be used for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bands, Luke
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adultery , Online dating Sex -- Social aspects Sex -- Psychological aspects , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42096 , vital:36625
- Description: There has been a large amount of research on infidelity and its effects on relationships. However, a new phenomenon, that of online infidelity, has emerged and with it comes some confusion as to what exactly constitutes an act of infidelity while exploring the limits of cyberspace. While some research has been done internationally on the perceptions of online infidelity, studies conducted in South Africa are lacking. The aim of the present study was to explore and describe student perceptions of online infidelity. Social Constructionism was used as the theoretical framework for the study. A qualitative approach was used and the study was exploratory and descriptive in design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, with the sample size of the study being twelve. Thematic analysis, as outlined by Braun and Clarke, was used in order to analyse the obtained data. Two main themes emerged, namely Defining Online Infidelity, and Reasons Surrounding Perceptions of Online Infidelity. The findings of the present study will provide a better understanding of perceptions of online infidelity within the South African context, and can be used for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Student teachers’ perceptions of their school mentors’ interpersonal collegial leadership competencies to develop their work-integrated learning knowledge and skills
- Authors: Mahomed, Carmel Claire
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational leadership , Mentoring in education -- South Africa Student teachers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42548 , vital:36667
- Description: Mentoring is indispensable for the adjustment of student teachers to the demands of the school work-integrated learning environment. Despite the benefits of mentoring to student teachers, a challenge is the inconsistency of the mentoring programmes within and across schools. An additional challenge is the predominance of bureaucratic models of mentoring, which have the potential of perpetuating a hierarchical approach to mentoring if student teachers use mentor teachers who depend on bureaucratic models of mentoring as role models. Therefore, to ensure that student teachers are exposed to a cross-pollination of expertise from all teachers in the schools, this study proposes a collegial approach to mentoring to determine the impact of the collegial competencies of the mentor teachers on the student teachers’ acquisition of work-integrated learning. A case study in a higher education institution was conducted to obtain data regarding the perceptions of two hundred and forty-one student teachers of their mentor teachers’ interpersonal competencies. The student teachers in this study were all in the final year of their initial teacher education qualification. The respondents comprised student teachers from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Further Education and Training and Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The focus in the questionnaire was on the competencies: interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy, trust, content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge. The findings revealed that the student teachers’ perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to their internal collegial leadership, proficiency in communication, capacity for empathy and ability to establish trust were positive. The mentor teacher competencies of interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy and trust revealed emotional intelligence competencies in their relationships with the student teachers. The findings also revealed that the student teachers' perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge were positive. The mentor teachers’ content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge revealed their competencies associated with their cognitive skills (IQ) in the school work-integrated environment. The findings also indicated that, in terms of their interpersonal collegial leadership, the mentor teachers were not inclined to harness the expertise of their colleagues to ensure that there was a collegial approach to mentoring among all the teachers in a school. This might be a reason for the inability of some mentor teachers to shift their paradigms from bureaucratic approaches to mentoring to collegial approaches. The adoption of collegial approaches to mentoring with a focus on competencies associated with both EI and IQ has the potential to impact markedly on the enhancement of the professional development of student teachers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mahomed, Carmel Claire
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational leadership , Mentoring in education -- South Africa Student teachers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42548 , vital:36667
- Description: Mentoring is indispensable for the adjustment of student teachers to the demands of the school work-integrated learning environment. Despite the benefits of mentoring to student teachers, a challenge is the inconsistency of the mentoring programmes within and across schools. An additional challenge is the predominance of bureaucratic models of mentoring, which have the potential of perpetuating a hierarchical approach to mentoring if student teachers use mentor teachers who depend on bureaucratic models of mentoring as role models. Therefore, to ensure that student teachers are exposed to a cross-pollination of expertise from all teachers in the schools, this study proposes a collegial approach to mentoring to determine the impact of the collegial competencies of the mentor teachers on the student teachers’ acquisition of work-integrated learning. A case study in a higher education institution was conducted to obtain data regarding the perceptions of two hundred and forty-one student teachers of their mentor teachers’ interpersonal competencies. The student teachers in this study were all in the final year of their initial teacher education qualification. The respondents comprised student teachers from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Further Education and Training and Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The focus in the questionnaire was on the competencies: interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy, trust, content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge. The findings revealed that the student teachers’ perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to their internal collegial leadership, proficiency in communication, capacity for empathy and ability to establish trust were positive. The mentor teacher competencies of interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy and trust revealed emotional intelligence competencies in their relationships with the student teachers. The findings also revealed that the student teachers' perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge were positive. The mentor teachers’ content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge revealed their competencies associated with their cognitive skills (IQ) in the school work-integrated environment. The findings also indicated that, in terms of their interpersonal collegial leadership, the mentor teachers were not inclined to harness the expertise of their colleagues to ensure that there was a collegial approach to mentoring among all the teachers in a school. This might be a reason for the inability of some mentor teachers to shift their paradigms from bureaucratic approaches to mentoring to collegial approaches. The adoption of collegial approaches to mentoring with a focus on competencies associated with both EI and IQ has the potential to impact markedly on the enhancement of the professional development of student teachers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Students’ experiences and perceptions of racial prejudice and discrimination on social networking sites
- Authors: Van Graan, Christelle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Online social networks--Psychological aspects , Internet users -- Psychology Cyberspace -- Psychological aspects Racism -- Psychological aspects Social psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44158 , vital:37119
- Description: The present study set out to enhance the understanding of racial prejudice and discrimination on social networking websites or ‘sites’ from the perspective of university students. The research focused on discovering the perceived determinant factors of online racial prejudice and discrimination, as well as the impact social networking sites have on such behaviour. A qualitative research design was selected, which utilised the grounded theory method to explore and describe the experiences and perceptions of the eight participants recruited by means of purposive sampling. The aim of the study was achieved through individual semi-structured interviews and a concept definition questionnaire as data collection tools. The findings were compared to major extant theories and literature to determine whether existing explanations for the occurrence of this online behaviour is sufficient to account for this phenomenon. Using an iterative process of thematic analysis, the findings revealed several perceived factors that contribute to this behaviour. It was found that social networking site users, in all their psychological, psychosocial and cognitive attributes, are the primary source for this behaviour. Moreover, online racial prejudice and discrimination is initiated by the use of these platforms and their facilitative features, which has a perceived negative impact on social and racial relations. Grounded in the research data, an explanatory theory was formulated of individuals’ perceived behaviour on social networking sites, specifically pertaining to racial prejudice and discrimination, as well as to how this negatively manifests and causes racial division in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Van Graan, Christelle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Online social networks--Psychological aspects , Internet users -- Psychology Cyberspace -- Psychological aspects Racism -- Psychological aspects Social psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44158 , vital:37119
- Description: The present study set out to enhance the understanding of racial prejudice and discrimination on social networking websites or ‘sites’ from the perspective of university students. The research focused on discovering the perceived determinant factors of online racial prejudice and discrimination, as well as the impact social networking sites have on such behaviour. A qualitative research design was selected, which utilised the grounded theory method to explore and describe the experiences and perceptions of the eight participants recruited by means of purposive sampling. The aim of the study was achieved through individual semi-structured interviews and a concept definition questionnaire as data collection tools. The findings were compared to major extant theories and literature to determine whether existing explanations for the occurrence of this online behaviour is sufficient to account for this phenomenon. Using an iterative process of thematic analysis, the findings revealed several perceived factors that contribute to this behaviour. It was found that social networking site users, in all their psychological, psychosocial and cognitive attributes, are the primary source for this behaviour. Moreover, online racial prejudice and discrimination is initiated by the use of these platforms and their facilitative features, which has a perceived negative impact on social and racial relations. Grounded in the research data, an explanatory theory was formulated of individuals’ perceived behaviour on social networking sites, specifically pertaining to racial prejudice and discrimination, as well as to how this negatively manifests and causes racial division in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Students’ perceived experiences of a flipped classroom at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Teaching -- trends Flipped classrooms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15881 , vital:40545
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom. Universities across the world are confronted with a variety of problems. One of these challenges include the massification of higher education as more students now have access to universities resulting in larger class sizes and lower through put rates. Universities have traditionally made use of the face-to-face model of lectures and tutorials as a passive mode of course instruction and delivery. However, due to the massification of higher education, it has become very difficult for lecturers to communicate and collaborate with students. One of the ways that lecturers have attempted to overcome the problem of massification is to make use of technology to increase the delivery of course content. When lectures are made available online while the traditional class time is used to build conceptual understanding and cognitive skills among students, the approach is known as ‘flipping’ the classroom. Several studies have shown that this type of active classroom approach can perform better than traditional lectures when learning outcomes are compared. There is also a very limited body of knowledge available regarding students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at traditional South African universities. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study are the Activity Theory and Constructivism, whilst a pragmatic paradigm was employed. The flipped classroom was used in one course of the Management and Commerce Faculty at a traditional university in South Africa. The study was divided into three cycles: The first cycle involved 4 weeks of traditional lectures, the second cycle of 4 weeks introduced blended learning into the course, while the third cycle of 4 weeks changed the content delivery method to a flipped classroom. At the end of each cycle a formal evaluation through focus groups interviews (with 10 students per cycle) and a questionnaire (that was administered to the class) was conducted to inform the next cycle. Throughout the research process, the researcher also kept detailed field notes to as an account of the planning, execution and reflection for each class. The researcher also observed the behavior of the students during the various research cycles to provide a ‘snapshot’ of the classes. The results of the study suggest that students prefer the use of the flipped classroom is it enables them to communicate with their peers and the lecturer, and providing them with opportunities to better understand learning content through discussions and reasoning, rather than the means of receiving information. Barriers that were identified included difficulty with learning strategies and technical assistance when students needed assistance. However, students were positive about both the use of the flipped classroom as opposed to the use of the traditional classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Teaching -- trends Flipped classrooms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15881 , vital:40545
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom. Universities across the world are confronted with a variety of problems. One of these challenges include the massification of higher education as more students now have access to universities resulting in larger class sizes and lower through put rates. Universities have traditionally made use of the face-to-face model of lectures and tutorials as a passive mode of course instruction and delivery. However, due to the massification of higher education, it has become very difficult for lecturers to communicate and collaborate with students. One of the ways that lecturers have attempted to overcome the problem of massification is to make use of technology to increase the delivery of course content. When lectures are made available online while the traditional class time is used to build conceptual understanding and cognitive skills among students, the approach is known as ‘flipping’ the classroom. Several studies have shown that this type of active classroom approach can perform better than traditional lectures when learning outcomes are compared. There is also a very limited body of knowledge available regarding students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at traditional South African universities. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study are the Activity Theory and Constructivism, whilst a pragmatic paradigm was employed. The flipped classroom was used in one course of the Management and Commerce Faculty at a traditional university in South Africa. The study was divided into three cycles: The first cycle involved 4 weeks of traditional lectures, the second cycle of 4 weeks introduced blended learning into the course, while the third cycle of 4 weeks changed the content delivery method to a flipped classroom. At the end of each cycle a formal evaluation through focus groups interviews (with 10 students per cycle) and a questionnaire (that was administered to the class) was conducted to inform the next cycle. Throughout the research process, the researcher also kept detailed field notes to as an account of the planning, execution and reflection for each class. The researcher also observed the behavior of the students during the various research cycles to provide a ‘snapshot’ of the classes. The results of the study suggest that students prefer the use of the flipped classroom is it enables them to communicate with their peers and the lecturer, and providing them with opportunities to better understand learning content through discussions and reasoning, rather than the means of receiving information. Barriers that were identified included difficulty with learning strategies and technical assistance when students needed assistance. However, students were positive about both the use of the flipped classroom as opposed to the use of the traditional classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019