Job satisfaction at a public hospital in the Nelson Mandela Bay: Lived experiences of professional nurses
- Authors: Vamva, Valencia Nomawethu
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Nursing -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public health Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60843 , vital:67951
- Description: Job satisfaction has been recognised as one of the most important factors influencing a nurse’s desire to remain in the nursing profession. Nurses play a pivotal role in determining the efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability of the healthcare system. Understanding the job satisfaction of professional nurses in public hospitals is critical because it has a direct relationship with turnover rates. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experiences of professional nurses at a public hospital in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The research design was a qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design. The research population for this study was professional nurses in a public hospital of the Nelson Mandela Bay. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was used. The data collection method for this study was face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with the professional nurses. Trustworthiness was based on the four criteria of trustworthiness which are: credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. The ethical standards for this study were based on the three principles of the Belmont Report which are respect for persons, beneficence and justice. Professional nurses are important in the health care system because of their provision of adequate health care. Literature has indicated that the public sector hospitals of South Africa have many challenges. The challenges faced by these public sector hospitals may affect the nurses’ job satisfaction, their performance and the quality of care. This study was helpful as it explored the experiences of professional nurses regarding job satisfaction in a public hospital of the Nelson Mandela Bay. The professional nurses highlighted the aspects of their work environment that influenced their job satisfaction and recommendations were made to resolve the situation. These were the need for sufficient staff, adequate salaries, a management-staff bond, continuous development of staff, the need for supervisors to monitor staff tardiness, sufficient resources and their maintenance, improvement of hospital infrastructure and ensuring staff safety. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12
- Authors: Vamva, Valencia Nomawethu
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Nursing -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public health Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60843 , vital:67951
- Description: Job satisfaction has been recognised as one of the most important factors influencing a nurse’s desire to remain in the nursing profession. Nurses play a pivotal role in determining the efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability of the healthcare system. Understanding the job satisfaction of professional nurses in public hospitals is critical because it has a direct relationship with turnover rates. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experiences of professional nurses at a public hospital in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The research design was a qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design. The research population for this study was professional nurses in a public hospital of the Nelson Mandela Bay. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was used. The data collection method for this study was face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with the professional nurses. Trustworthiness was based on the four criteria of trustworthiness which are: credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. The ethical standards for this study were based on the three principles of the Belmont Report which are respect for persons, beneficence and justice. Professional nurses are important in the health care system because of their provision of adequate health care. Literature has indicated that the public sector hospitals of South Africa have many challenges. The challenges faced by these public sector hospitals may affect the nurses’ job satisfaction, their performance and the quality of care. This study was helpful as it explored the experiences of professional nurses regarding job satisfaction in a public hospital of the Nelson Mandela Bay. The professional nurses highlighted the aspects of their work environment that influenced their job satisfaction and recommendations were made to resolve the situation. These were the need for sufficient staff, adequate salaries, a management-staff bond, continuous development of staff, the need for supervisors to monitor staff tardiness, sufficient resources and their maintenance, improvement of hospital infrastructure and ensuring staff safety. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12
Wavelet Theory: for Economic & Financial Cycles
- Authors: Mlambo, Farai Fredric
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Wavelets (Mathematics) , Finance -- Mathematical models , Economic forecasting
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49930 , vital:41861
- Description: Cycles - their nature in existence, their implications on human-kind and the study thereof have sparked some important philosophical debates since the very pre-historic days. Notable contributions by famous, genius philosophers, mathematicians, historians and economists such as Pareto, Deulofeu, Danielewski, Kuznets, Kondratiev, Elliot and many others in itself shows how cycles and their study have been deemed important, through the history and process of scientific and philosophical inquiry. Particularly, the explication of Business, Economic and Financial cycles have seen some significant research and policy attention. Nevertheless, most of the methodologies employed in this space are either purely empirical in nature, time series based or the so-called Regime-Switching Markov model popularized in Economics by James Hamilton. In this work, we develop a Statistical, non-linear model fit based on circle geometry which is applicable for the dating of cycles. This study proposes a scalable, smooth and differentiable quarter-circular wavelet basis for the smoothing and dating of business, economic and financial cycles. The dating then necessitates the forecasting of the cyclical patterns in the evolution of business, economic and financial time series. The practical significance of dating and forecasting business and financial cycles cannot be over-emphasized. The use of wavelet decomposition in explaining cycles can be seen as an critical contribution of spectral methods of statistical modelling to finance and economic policy at large. Being a relatively new method, wavelet analysis has seen some great contribution in geophysical modelling. This study endeavours to widen the use and application of frequency-time decomposition to the economic and financial space. Wavelets are localized in both time and frequency, such that there is no loss of the time resolution. The importance of time resolution in dating of cycles is another motivation behind using wavelets. Moreover, the preservation of time resolution in wavelet analysis is a fundamental strength employed in the dating of cycles. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematical Statistics, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12
- Authors: Mlambo, Farai Fredric
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Wavelets (Mathematics) , Finance -- Mathematical models , Economic forecasting
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49930 , vital:41861
- Description: Cycles - their nature in existence, their implications on human-kind and the study thereof have sparked some important philosophical debates since the very pre-historic days. Notable contributions by famous, genius philosophers, mathematicians, historians and economists such as Pareto, Deulofeu, Danielewski, Kuznets, Kondratiev, Elliot and many others in itself shows how cycles and their study have been deemed important, through the history and process of scientific and philosophical inquiry. Particularly, the explication of Business, Economic and Financial cycles have seen some significant research and policy attention. Nevertheless, most of the methodologies employed in this space are either purely empirical in nature, time series based or the so-called Regime-Switching Markov model popularized in Economics by James Hamilton. In this work, we develop a Statistical, non-linear model fit based on circle geometry which is applicable for the dating of cycles. This study proposes a scalable, smooth and differentiable quarter-circular wavelet basis for the smoothing and dating of business, economic and financial cycles. The dating then necessitates the forecasting of the cyclical patterns in the evolution of business, economic and financial time series. The practical significance of dating and forecasting business and financial cycles cannot be over-emphasized. The use of wavelet decomposition in explaining cycles can be seen as an critical contribution of spectral methods of statistical modelling to finance and economic policy at large. Being a relatively new method, wavelet analysis has seen some great contribution in geophysical modelling. This study endeavours to widen the use and application of frequency-time decomposition to the economic and financial space. Wavelets are localized in both time and frequency, such that there is no loss of the time resolution. The importance of time resolution in dating of cycles is another motivation behind using wavelets. Moreover, the preservation of time resolution in wavelet analysis is a fundamental strength employed in the dating of cycles. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematical Statistics, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12
Research & innovation report 2018/19
- Date: 2019-10
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela University , Universities and colleges -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39928 , vital:35546
- Description: Annual report highlighting the research and innovation undertaken by the Nelson Mandela University
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-10
- Date: 2019-10
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela University , Universities and colleges -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39928 , vital:35546
- Description: Annual report highlighting the research and innovation undertaken by the Nelson Mandela University
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-10
A social networking approach to security awareness in end-user cyber-driven financial transactions
- Authors: Maharaj,Rahul
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Internet -- Security measures , Cyber intelligence (Computer security) , Internet -- Social aspects , Cyberspace
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49952 , vital:41912
- Description: Cyberspace, including the internet and associated technologies have become critical to social users in their day to day lives. Social users have grown to become reliant on cyberspace and associated cyber services. As such, a culture of users becoming dependent on cyberspace has formed. This cyberculture need to ensure that they can make use of cyberspace and associated cyber services in a safe and secure manner. This is particularly true for those social users involved in cyberdriven financial transactions. Therefore, the aim of this research study is to report on research undertaken, to assist said users by providing them with an alternative educational approach to cyber security, education, awareness and training. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Information Technology, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
- Authors: Maharaj,Rahul
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Internet -- Security measures , Cyber intelligence (Computer security) , Internet -- Social aspects , Cyberspace
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49952 , vital:41912
- Description: Cyberspace, including the internet and associated technologies have become critical to social users in their day to day lives. Social users have grown to become reliant on cyberspace and associated cyber services. As such, a culture of users becoming dependent on cyberspace has formed. This cyberculture need to ensure that they can make use of cyberspace and associated cyber services in a safe and secure manner. This is particularly true for those social users involved in cyberdriven financial transactions. Therefore, the aim of this research study is to report on research undertaken, to assist said users by providing them with an alternative educational approach to cyber security, education, awareness and training. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Information Technology, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
Optical surface quality and molecular dynamics modelling of ultra-high precision optical silicon machining
- Authors: Abdulkadir, Lukman Niyi
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Engineering design -- Data processing , Manufacturing processes -- Data processing , Mechatronics
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66552 , vital:75601
- Description: Hard and brittle materials, such as silicon, silicon carbide etc., are widely used in aerospace, integrated circuit, and other fields due to their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, these materials display poor machinability owing to hardness, brittleness, non-linearity in machining process and complexities in selecting suitable machining parameters and tool geometry. These leads to low quality lenses due to subsurface damage and surface micro-crack. Additionally, it is experimentally very difficult to observe all nanoscale physical phenomena due to in-process measurement problems, inaccessible contact area of tool and workpiece, and the difficulty of surface analysis. With the use of molecular dynamics (MD) which is a comprehensive nanoscale modelling technique, proper selection of process parameters, tool geometry and online monitoring techniques, production of freeform optics is possible through Ultra-high precision diamond turning (UHPDT). Though, depending on view point, machinability in UHPDT may be in terms of tool wear rate, hardness, chip morphology, surface roughness, and other benchmarks. These situations have called for more insights, which on the long run will help to achieve high precision manufacturing with predictability, repeatability, productivity and high infrared (IR) optical quality. In this thesis, UHPDT of monocrystalline silicon at atomistic scale was conducted to investigate combined effects of edge radius, feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, rake and clearance angles hitherto not done so far. Using appropriate potential functions with the MD algorithm, comprehensive analysis of thermal effects, diamond tool wear, phase change, cutting forces and machining stresses (normal, shear, hydrostatic and von Mises) were carried out. Dislocation extraction algorithm (DXA) and radial distribution function (RDF) were used to evaluate dislocation nucleation, variations in bond lengths, microstructural transformation and represents structural changes in histogram form. Selected parameters for optical quality surface roughness were afterwards compared and optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box Behnken (BBD) and Taguchi L9 methods. The results indicated that, silicon atoms in the chip formation zone undergo high pressure phase transformation (HPPT) at high hydrostatic pressure and temperature.Silicon microstructure transformed from four-coordinated diamond cubic structure (Si- I) to unstable six-coordinated body-centered tetragonal structure (β-silicon) which then transformed to amorphous silicon atoms (a-Si) through amorphization. These resulted in plastic deformation and defects in the machining zone causing subsurface damage. Stress analysis indicated that the compressive stress in the machining zone (i.e. amorphous region) suppressed crack formation contributing to continuous plastic flow which is responsible for silicon ductile-mode cutting. Furthermore, formation of silicon carbide which constituted diamond wear was observed to be by sp3 - sp2 diamond carbon atom disorder and tribochemistry. The tribochemistry occurred through both multiphase and solid-state single-phase reaction between diamond tool and silicon workpiece at cutting temperatures above and below 959 K. Both the experimental findings and the simulation results reveal that, at edge radius less than uncut chip thickness, tool wear was more of rake wear than flank wear. Tool wear and kinetic friction reduced as the edge radius approached the uncut chip thickness while forces, stresses and SCE increased. When machining silicon at differentratio, silicon stress state, SCE, SSD, forces (reduced with increase in clearance angle), shear plane, chip velocity and chip ratio increased as edge radius and rake angle increased, while, kinetic friction, chip length and thickness reduced. The crystal lattice of the machined surfaces and subsurface deformed layer depth increased with increase in edge radius, feed and rake angle. Amongst all tested and analysed parameters, feed rate had the highest influence on surface quality while depth of cut showed the least. Acoustic emission was also monitored during machining and its results statistically analysed. The trends of the monitored acoustic emissions showed its capability to adequately represent and predict surface roughness results. Based on the developed simulation model a novel method for quantitative assessment of tool wear was proposed. The proposed model can be used to compare tool wear using graphitization and tribochemistry to decide the path and mode of the diamond tool wear. Finally, based on the experiment results and predictive model, a novel combination and hierarchical arrangement of the considered factors capable of suppressing tool wear and improve attainable machined surface roughness when turning hard-to-machine materials was proposed. , Thesis (D.Phil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
- Authors: Abdulkadir, Lukman Niyi
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Engineering design -- Data processing , Manufacturing processes -- Data processing , Mechatronics
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66552 , vital:75601
- Description: Hard and brittle materials, such as silicon, silicon carbide etc., are widely used in aerospace, integrated circuit, and other fields due to their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, these materials display poor machinability owing to hardness, brittleness, non-linearity in machining process and complexities in selecting suitable machining parameters and tool geometry. These leads to low quality lenses due to subsurface damage and surface micro-crack. Additionally, it is experimentally very difficult to observe all nanoscale physical phenomena due to in-process measurement problems, inaccessible contact area of tool and workpiece, and the difficulty of surface analysis. With the use of molecular dynamics (MD) which is a comprehensive nanoscale modelling technique, proper selection of process parameters, tool geometry and online monitoring techniques, production of freeform optics is possible through Ultra-high precision diamond turning (UHPDT). Though, depending on view point, machinability in UHPDT may be in terms of tool wear rate, hardness, chip morphology, surface roughness, and other benchmarks. These situations have called for more insights, which on the long run will help to achieve high precision manufacturing with predictability, repeatability, productivity and high infrared (IR) optical quality. In this thesis, UHPDT of monocrystalline silicon at atomistic scale was conducted to investigate combined effects of edge radius, feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, rake and clearance angles hitherto not done so far. Using appropriate potential functions with the MD algorithm, comprehensive analysis of thermal effects, diamond tool wear, phase change, cutting forces and machining stresses (normal, shear, hydrostatic and von Mises) were carried out. Dislocation extraction algorithm (DXA) and radial distribution function (RDF) were used to evaluate dislocation nucleation, variations in bond lengths, microstructural transformation and represents structural changes in histogram form. Selected parameters for optical quality surface roughness were afterwards compared and optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box Behnken (BBD) and Taguchi L9 methods. The results indicated that, silicon atoms in the chip formation zone undergo high pressure phase transformation (HPPT) at high hydrostatic pressure and temperature.Silicon microstructure transformed from four-coordinated diamond cubic structure (Si- I) to unstable six-coordinated body-centered tetragonal structure (β-silicon) which then transformed to amorphous silicon atoms (a-Si) through amorphization. These resulted in plastic deformation and defects in the machining zone causing subsurface damage. Stress analysis indicated that the compressive stress in the machining zone (i.e. amorphous region) suppressed crack formation contributing to continuous plastic flow which is responsible for silicon ductile-mode cutting. Furthermore, formation of silicon carbide which constituted diamond wear was observed to be by sp3 - sp2 diamond carbon atom disorder and tribochemistry. The tribochemistry occurred through both multiphase and solid-state single-phase reaction between diamond tool and silicon workpiece at cutting temperatures above and below 959 K. Both the experimental findings and the simulation results reveal that, at edge radius less than uncut chip thickness, tool wear was more of rake wear than flank wear. Tool wear and kinetic friction reduced as the edge radius approached the uncut chip thickness while forces, stresses and SCE increased. When machining silicon at differentratio, silicon stress state, SCE, SSD, forces (reduced with increase in clearance angle), shear plane, chip velocity and chip ratio increased as edge radius and rake angle increased, while, kinetic friction, chip length and thickness reduced. The crystal lattice of the machined surfaces and subsurface deformed layer depth increased with increase in edge radius, feed and rake angle. Amongst all tested and analysed parameters, feed rate had the highest influence on surface quality while depth of cut showed the least. Acoustic emission was also monitored during machining and its results statistically analysed. The trends of the monitored acoustic emissions showed its capability to adequately represent and predict surface roughness results. Based on the developed simulation model a novel method for quantitative assessment of tool wear was proposed. The proposed model can be used to compare tool wear using graphitization and tribochemistry to decide the path and mode of the diamond tool wear. Finally, based on the experiment results and predictive model, a novel combination and hierarchical arrangement of the considered factors capable of suppressing tool wear and improve attainable machined surface roughness when turning hard-to-machine materials was proposed. , Thesis (D.Phil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
Optical surface quality and molecular dynamics modelling of ultra-high precision optical silicon machining
- Authors: Abdulkadir, Lukman Niyi
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Lasers -- Industrial applications , Manufacturing processes , Materials science
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66551 , vital:75600
- Description: Hard and brittle materials, such as silicon, silicon carbide etc., are widely used in aerospace, integrated circuit, and other fields due to their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, these materials display poor machinability owing to hardness, brittleness, non-linearity in machining process and complexities in selecting suitable machining parameters and tool geometry. These leads to low quality lenses due to subsurface damage and surface micro-crack. Additionally, it is experimentally very difficult to observe all nanoscale physical phenomena due to in-process measurement problems, inaccessible contact area of tool and workpiece, and the difficulty of surface analysis. With the use of molecular dynamics (MD) which is a comprehensive nanoscale modelling technique, proper selection of process parameters, tool geometry and online monitoring techniques, production of freeform optics is possible through Ultra-high precision diamond turning (UHPDT). Though, depending on view point, machinability in UHPDT may be in terms of tool wear rate, hardness, chip morphology, surface roughness, and other benchmarks. These situations have called for more insights, which on the long run will help to achieve high precision manufacturing with predictability, repeatability, productivity and high infrared (IR) optical quality. In this thesis, UHPDT of monocrystalline silicon at atomistic scale was conducted to investigate combined effects of edge radius, feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, rake and clearance angles hitherto not done so far. Using appropriate potential functions with the MD algorithm, comprehensive analysis of thermal effects, diamond tool wear, phase change, cutting forces and machining stresses (normal, shear, hydrostatic and von Mises) were carried out. Dislocation extraction algorithm (DXA) and radial distribution function (RDF) were used to evaluate dislocation nucleation, variations in bond lengths, microstructural transformation and represents structural changes in histogram form. Selected parameters for optical quality surface roughness were afterwards compared and optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box Behnken (BBD) and Taguchi L9 methods. The results indicated that, silicon atoms in the chip formation zone undergo high pressure phase transformation (HPPT) at high hydrostatic pressure and temperature Silicon microstructure transformed from four-coordinated diamond cubic structure (Si-I) to unstable six-coordinated body-centered tetragonal structure (β-silicon) which then transformed to amorphous silicon atoms (a-Si) through amorphization. These resulted in plastic deformation and defects in the machining zone causing subsurface damage. Stress analysis indicated that the compressive stress in the machining zone (i.e.amorphous region) suppressed crack formation contributing to continuous plastic flow which is responsible for silicon ductile-mode cutting. Furthermore, formation of silicon carbide which constituted diamond wear was observed to be by sp3 - sp2 diamond carbon atom disorder and tribochemistry. The tribochemistry occurred through both multiphase and solid-state single-phase reaction between diamond tool and silicon workpiece at cutting temperatures above and below 959 K. Both the experimental findings and the simulation results reveal that, at edge radius less than uncut chip thickness, tool wear was more of rake wear than flank wear. Tool wear and kinetic friction reduced as the edge radius approached the uncut chip thickness while forces, stresses and SCE increased. When machining silicon at different ratio, silicon stress state, SCE, SSD, forces (reduced with increase in clearance angle), shear plane, chip velocity and chip ratio increased as edge radius and rake angle increased, while, kinetic friction, chip length and thickness reduced. The crystal lattice of the machined surfaces and subsurface deformed layer depth increased with increase in edge radius, feed and rake angle. Amongst all tested and analysed parameters, feed rate had the highest influence on surface quality while depth of cut showed the least. Acoustic emission was also monitored during machining and its results statistically analysed. The trends of the monitored acoustic emissions showed its capability to adequately represent and predict surface roughness results. Based on the developed simulation model a novel method for quantitative assessment of tool wear was proposed. The proposed model can be used to compare tool wear using graphitization and tribochemistry to decide the path and mode of the diamond tool wear. Finally, based on the experiment results and predictive model, a novel combination and hierarchical arrangement of the considered factors capable of suppressing tool wear and improve attainable machined surface roughness when turning hard-to-machine materials was proposed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
- Authors: Abdulkadir, Lukman Niyi
- Date: 2019-04
- Subjects: Lasers -- Industrial applications , Manufacturing processes , Materials science
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66551 , vital:75600
- Description: Hard and brittle materials, such as silicon, silicon carbide etc., are widely used in aerospace, integrated circuit, and other fields due to their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, these materials display poor machinability owing to hardness, brittleness, non-linearity in machining process and complexities in selecting suitable machining parameters and tool geometry. These leads to low quality lenses due to subsurface damage and surface micro-crack. Additionally, it is experimentally very difficult to observe all nanoscale physical phenomena due to in-process measurement problems, inaccessible contact area of tool and workpiece, and the difficulty of surface analysis. With the use of molecular dynamics (MD) which is a comprehensive nanoscale modelling technique, proper selection of process parameters, tool geometry and online monitoring techniques, production of freeform optics is possible through Ultra-high precision diamond turning (UHPDT). Though, depending on view point, machinability in UHPDT may be in terms of tool wear rate, hardness, chip morphology, surface roughness, and other benchmarks. These situations have called for more insights, which on the long run will help to achieve high precision manufacturing with predictability, repeatability, productivity and high infrared (IR) optical quality. In this thesis, UHPDT of monocrystalline silicon at atomistic scale was conducted to investigate combined effects of edge radius, feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, rake and clearance angles hitherto not done so far. Using appropriate potential functions with the MD algorithm, comprehensive analysis of thermal effects, diamond tool wear, phase change, cutting forces and machining stresses (normal, shear, hydrostatic and von Mises) were carried out. Dislocation extraction algorithm (DXA) and radial distribution function (RDF) were used to evaluate dislocation nucleation, variations in bond lengths, microstructural transformation and represents structural changes in histogram form. Selected parameters for optical quality surface roughness were afterwards compared and optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) based on Box Behnken (BBD) and Taguchi L9 methods. The results indicated that, silicon atoms in the chip formation zone undergo high pressure phase transformation (HPPT) at high hydrostatic pressure and temperature Silicon microstructure transformed from four-coordinated diamond cubic structure (Si-I) to unstable six-coordinated body-centered tetragonal structure (β-silicon) which then transformed to amorphous silicon atoms (a-Si) through amorphization. These resulted in plastic deformation and defects in the machining zone causing subsurface damage. Stress analysis indicated that the compressive stress in the machining zone (i.e.amorphous region) suppressed crack formation contributing to continuous plastic flow which is responsible for silicon ductile-mode cutting. Furthermore, formation of silicon carbide which constituted diamond wear was observed to be by sp3 - sp2 diamond carbon atom disorder and tribochemistry. The tribochemistry occurred through both multiphase and solid-state single-phase reaction between diamond tool and silicon workpiece at cutting temperatures above and below 959 K. Both the experimental findings and the simulation results reveal that, at edge radius less than uncut chip thickness, tool wear was more of rake wear than flank wear. Tool wear and kinetic friction reduced as the edge radius approached the uncut chip thickness while forces, stresses and SCE increased. When machining silicon at different ratio, silicon stress state, SCE, SSD, forces (reduced with increase in clearance angle), shear plane, chip velocity and chip ratio increased as edge radius and rake angle increased, while, kinetic friction, chip length and thickness reduced. The crystal lattice of the machined surfaces and subsurface deformed layer depth increased with increase in edge radius, feed and rake angle. Amongst all tested and analysed parameters, feed rate had the highest influence on surface quality while depth of cut showed the least. Acoustic emission was also monitored during machining and its results statistically analysed. The trends of the monitored acoustic emissions showed its capability to adequately represent and predict surface roughness results. Based on the developed simulation model a novel method for quantitative assessment of tool wear was proposed. The proposed model can be used to compare tool wear using graphitization and tribochemistry to decide the path and mode of the diamond tool wear. Finally, based on the experiment results and predictive model, a novel combination and hierarchical arrangement of the considered factors capable of suppressing tool wear and improve attainable machined surface roughness when turning hard-to-machine materials was proposed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-04
"A lean-led-evaluation" of infrastructure development improvement programme in South Africa
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44535 , vital:38131
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44535 , vital:38131
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A "lean-led-evaluation" of infrastructure development improvement programme in South Africa
- Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey, Emuze, Fidelis
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey , Emuze, Fidelis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accounting , Construction industry -- South Africa Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44929 , vital:38189
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey , Emuze, Fidelis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accounting , Construction industry -- South Africa Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44929 , vital:38189
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten: a critique of bargain retail practices and homemaking through critical design
- Authors: Hawley, Ami Jessica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stores, Retail -- Designs and plans -- South Africa , Interior decoration -- South Africa House furnishings -- South Africa -- 20th century Furniture -- South Africa Store decoration Interior architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40349 , vital:36146
- Description: Although bargains commonly manifest as loud advertisements and trivial objects, as a moment of exchange they provide a basis to critique economic relations and judgements of taste. This research presents a document study of “bargains” in the context of bargain retail practices and homemaking, illustrated in the case of OK Furniture in South Africa; further situated by Julier’s study of economy and class within design culture, and Bourdieu’s fields of cultural production. The investigation builds to a discussion of the research practice, alluded to in the research project’s title, “A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten”. The title is an entry from this practice’s journal that conveys how the everyday experience of a bargain might find a connection to poetry when its exchange is seen as a performance; as a moment or encounter “unwritten”, capable of generating different modes of meaning and sociability. Using critical design strategies, the research practice explores the manifesting discountproduct cultures and retail practices associated with homes as a way to inhabit richer interpersonal relationships and unscripted sociability. This is discussed through four critical design proposals and 26 thought experiments, resulting in Text me when you see this, an online concept store that sells bargains, personal agreements, quality time, conversation and curio: www.textmewhenyouseethis.com. The research explores the limits to a bargain’s economic and emotional exchange by asking What if a bargain represented other forms of sociability, and How else might this mode of exchange look? These questions are used in the critique to model critical design towards both poetic expression and pragmatic embodiment of criticality in the project of reflecting on everyday life and what it might “dissolve into”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hawley, Ami Jessica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stores, Retail -- Designs and plans -- South Africa , Interior decoration -- South Africa House furnishings -- South Africa -- 20th century Furniture -- South Africa Store decoration Interior architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40349 , vital:36146
- Description: Although bargains commonly manifest as loud advertisements and trivial objects, as a moment of exchange they provide a basis to critique economic relations and judgements of taste. This research presents a document study of “bargains” in the context of bargain retail practices and homemaking, illustrated in the case of OK Furniture in South Africa; further situated by Julier’s study of economy and class within design culture, and Bourdieu’s fields of cultural production. The investigation builds to a discussion of the research practice, alluded to in the research project’s title, “A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten”. The title is an entry from this practice’s journal that conveys how the everyday experience of a bargain might find a connection to poetry when its exchange is seen as a performance; as a moment or encounter “unwritten”, capable of generating different modes of meaning and sociability. Using critical design strategies, the research practice explores the manifesting discountproduct cultures and retail practices associated with homes as a way to inhabit richer interpersonal relationships and unscripted sociability. This is discussed through four critical design proposals and 26 thought experiments, resulting in Text me when you see this, an online concept store that sells bargains, personal agreements, quality time, conversation and curio: www.textmewhenyouseethis.com. The research explores the limits to a bargain’s economic and emotional exchange by asking What if a bargain represented other forms of sociability, and How else might this mode of exchange look? These questions are used in the critique to model critical design towards both poetic expression and pragmatic embodiment of criticality in the project of reflecting on everyday life and what it might “dissolve into”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A blended learning toolkit that accommodates multiple learning styles
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A change framework for introducing performance management in higher education: a case study
- Authors: Ndung’u, Agnes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Education, Higher -- Evaluation Organizational change Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41796 , vital:36590
- Description: The South African Higher Education Act 101 of 1997 provides a legal framework for the management of higher education institutions based on quality assurance and accountability. As such, the Act mandates the introduction of performance management. Performance management is one of the most challenging areas of responsibility in the field of human resources management. The literature, as discussed in this study, reveals that performance management is a complex phenomenon and that the implementation of a performance management system is, for a variety of reasons, not always successful. Failure is mostly attributed to not taking a planned, scientific and collaborative approach to implementation, resulting to lack of buy-in from significant stakeholders. Specifically, the introduction of performance management in the higher education sector presents a unique challenge, as the process requires that stakeholders and especially academics, to shift from a traditional culture of collegiality to one in which accountability is measured by formal criteria. While existing literature does address the management of change in organisations, there is a paucity of literature on managing change with regards to performance management and specifically in the context of higher education. The purpose of this study was to develop and present a comprehensive change framework for introducing performance management in higher education. In order to provide a theoretical basis for the research, existing literature on performance management, change management as well as the higher education context was reviewed, to identify potential barriers to the implementation of performance management. A case study analysis was conducted on the implementation of performance management at a comprehensive university, which included presenting a historical timeline of implementation based on documented evidence, and reporting on open-ended interviews and focus groups conducted with significant stakeholders. The stakeholders included management, Human Resources (HR), academic staff, administrative and support staff, as well as trade union representatives. Key lessons were drawn and fused to develop a change framework for the introduction of performance management in higher education. The framework encapsulates key themes extracted from the literature and empirical study, with regard to readiness for change, planning, implementing and sustaining change, with cognisance of the unique context. The research revealed critical aspects for the successful implementation of performance management communication with and the involvement of stakeholders, the commitment of senior management, training, embedding the change in the organisational culture, and constantly evaluating the progress as a feedback loop for making improvements. The study demonstrates that planning the change process helps to improve the effectiveness of implementing performance management. A process framework for developing and introducing performance management in the context of higher education is created with a focus on how to create ownership through communication and involvement. The proposed framework serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, especially those involved in higher education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ndung’u, Agnes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Education, Higher -- Evaluation Organizational change Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41796 , vital:36590
- Description: The South African Higher Education Act 101 of 1997 provides a legal framework for the management of higher education institutions based on quality assurance and accountability. As such, the Act mandates the introduction of performance management. Performance management is one of the most challenging areas of responsibility in the field of human resources management. The literature, as discussed in this study, reveals that performance management is a complex phenomenon and that the implementation of a performance management system is, for a variety of reasons, not always successful. Failure is mostly attributed to not taking a planned, scientific and collaborative approach to implementation, resulting to lack of buy-in from significant stakeholders. Specifically, the introduction of performance management in the higher education sector presents a unique challenge, as the process requires that stakeholders and especially academics, to shift from a traditional culture of collegiality to one in which accountability is measured by formal criteria. While existing literature does address the management of change in organisations, there is a paucity of literature on managing change with regards to performance management and specifically in the context of higher education. The purpose of this study was to develop and present a comprehensive change framework for introducing performance management in higher education. In order to provide a theoretical basis for the research, existing literature on performance management, change management as well as the higher education context was reviewed, to identify potential barriers to the implementation of performance management. A case study analysis was conducted on the implementation of performance management at a comprehensive university, which included presenting a historical timeline of implementation based on documented evidence, and reporting on open-ended interviews and focus groups conducted with significant stakeholders. The stakeholders included management, Human Resources (HR), academic staff, administrative and support staff, as well as trade union representatives. Key lessons were drawn and fused to develop a change framework for the introduction of performance management in higher education. The framework encapsulates key themes extracted from the literature and empirical study, with regard to readiness for change, planning, implementing and sustaining change, with cognisance of the unique context. The research revealed critical aspects for the successful implementation of performance management communication with and the involvement of stakeholders, the commitment of senior management, training, embedding the change in the organisational culture, and constantly evaluating the progress as a feedback loop for making improvements. The study demonstrates that planning the change process helps to improve the effectiveness of implementing performance management. A process framework for developing and introducing performance management in the context of higher education is created with a focus on how to create ownership through communication and involvement. The proposed framework serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, especially those involved in higher education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A changed curriculum approach for learners at Enkuselweni child and youth care center
- Authors: Xhanti, Cynthia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Curriculum planning -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44312 , vital:37152
- Description: Enkuselweni Child and Youth Care Centre is a public institution that accommodates male youths between the ages of 10-17 years who broke the law and are awaiting court trials. While awaiting trial, the youths are compelled to attend school from grade one to grade seven. Learners are faced by academic development problems such as lack of interest in attending school resulting in high dropout rates. Other problems include unruly behaviour, bullying, prevalence of theft, fights and conflict between learners, lack of cooperation on academic subjects, low concentration span and focus, and non-attendance of classes. This leads to very low pass rates and little impact on the money spent by the institution to promote the academic development of learners. The current school curriculum, Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), provides for nine subjects in a full academic year starting from January to December. Learners at the Centre are therefore limited as they arrive at any time during the year. The learners spend an average of 3 – 6 months at the Centre, and are therefore unable to complete and cope with the prescribed CAPS curriculum. The main aim of this research study is to investigate an alternative curriculum that will be suitable for learners who are in conflict with the law and who spend less than one year at the Centre and arrive at any time of the year. The research question is “What alternative curriculum approach other than the current nine (9) subjects approach would better enhance the academic development of learners with behavioural problems while at Enkuselweni Child and Youth Care Centre?” The curriculum approach should take into consideration that the learners should be active citizens that can count, read and write (Asmal, 1997). The learners at Enkuselweni are unable to complete a “grade” which leads to despondency and drop out. According to the South African Schools Act (SASA) a grade is an educational programme which a learner may complete in one school year (South African Schools Act, 2011). This research indicates that the social and cultural influences as well as learner aptitude are the major barriers in the development of the Enkuselweni Centre learner’s education. Indeed, the research further showed that alignment of a suitable curriculum will bring a positive influence to learners’ academic interests. Parental involvement is an important aspect in ensuring that the learners succeed academically at Enkuselweni Centre. However, as a result of the lack of parental involvement the care workers act as the official guardians for the learners. The cares workers only address the basic physiological and physical wellbeing but do not assist with the academic needs or homework of the children. The culture of schooling of the learners is not an encouragement for academic achievement. The learners only spend on average 3 – 6 months a year at the Centre, which is shorter than the period prescribed by SASA. The teachers at Enkuselweni Centre are unable to produce positive results as there is no continuity or sense of completion. The basic achievement of reading, writing and counting can be achieved by reducing the nine subjects required by CAPS to three subjects, namely Home Language, First Additional Language (English) and Mathematics as per the table below. These subjects can be complemented by vocational skills such carpentry, brick laying, plumbing, electricity, computer literacy, landscaping and culinary skills. These vocational skills should be accredited with the relevant SETAs for ease of obtaining work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Xhanti, Cynthia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Curriculum planning -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44312 , vital:37152
- Description: Enkuselweni Child and Youth Care Centre is a public institution that accommodates male youths between the ages of 10-17 years who broke the law and are awaiting court trials. While awaiting trial, the youths are compelled to attend school from grade one to grade seven. Learners are faced by academic development problems such as lack of interest in attending school resulting in high dropout rates. Other problems include unruly behaviour, bullying, prevalence of theft, fights and conflict between learners, lack of cooperation on academic subjects, low concentration span and focus, and non-attendance of classes. This leads to very low pass rates and little impact on the money spent by the institution to promote the academic development of learners. The current school curriculum, Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), provides for nine subjects in a full academic year starting from January to December. Learners at the Centre are therefore limited as they arrive at any time during the year. The learners spend an average of 3 – 6 months at the Centre, and are therefore unable to complete and cope with the prescribed CAPS curriculum. The main aim of this research study is to investigate an alternative curriculum that will be suitable for learners who are in conflict with the law and who spend less than one year at the Centre and arrive at any time of the year. The research question is “What alternative curriculum approach other than the current nine (9) subjects approach would better enhance the academic development of learners with behavioural problems while at Enkuselweni Child and Youth Care Centre?” The curriculum approach should take into consideration that the learners should be active citizens that can count, read and write (Asmal, 1997). The learners at Enkuselweni are unable to complete a “grade” which leads to despondency and drop out. According to the South African Schools Act (SASA) a grade is an educational programme which a learner may complete in one school year (South African Schools Act, 2011). This research indicates that the social and cultural influences as well as learner aptitude are the major barriers in the development of the Enkuselweni Centre learner’s education. Indeed, the research further showed that alignment of a suitable curriculum will bring a positive influence to learners’ academic interests. Parental involvement is an important aspect in ensuring that the learners succeed academically at Enkuselweni Centre. However, as a result of the lack of parental involvement the care workers act as the official guardians for the learners. The cares workers only address the basic physiological and physical wellbeing but do not assist with the academic needs or homework of the children. The culture of schooling of the learners is not an encouragement for academic achievement. The learners only spend on average 3 – 6 months a year at the Centre, which is shorter than the period prescribed by SASA. The teachers at Enkuselweni Centre are unable to produce positive results as there is no continuity or sense of completion. The basic achievement of reading, writing and counting can be achieved by reducing the nine subjects required by CAPS to three subjects, namely Home Language, First Additional Language (English) and Mathematics as per the table below. These subjects can be complemented by vocational skills such carpentry, brick laying, plumbing, electricity, computer literacy, landscaping and culinary skills. These vocational skills should be accredited with the relevant SETAs for ease of obtaining work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A clip composition case study of communal wool production in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Dreyer, Susanna Maria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Wool industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39480 , vital:35265
- Description: Previous studies conducted on wool production in the communal areas of the Eastern Cape have concluded future research should focus on whether the observed differences in average wool price received between shearing sheds are due to differences in clip preparation (i.e. classing) or differences in the quality of the wool being produced (i.e. genetics).The objective of this study was to establish whether there are indeed geographical differences in the average wool price received by communal wool producers in the Eastern Cape and, if so, whether this difference in earnings is attributable to differences in the quality of wool produced and/or clip preparation. The current research explored eight years of wool production records of communal wool farmers (2009/10 to 2016/17) obtained from BKB, the largest wool broker in South Africa. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, parametric tests (i.e. t-test) and multiple regression analysis. The conclusions drawn from this study are: that there are indeed statistically significant differences in the average wool price received between the different geographic areas of the Eastern Cape communal regions, and that the primary determining factor is wool quality, while clip preparation also plays an important but secondary role. The study identified specific geographic areas where developmental interventions are most critical, with specific emphasis on improving the genetic composition of the wool sheep flocks. Specific strategies are recommended, namely:Removing inferior-quality rams and replacing them with superior-quality rams to prevent any inferior nondescript rams from breeding and producing progeny; Replacing the inferior-quality nondescript ewes in specific areas with superior-quality ewes, and Improving the survival rate of lambs and thereby contributing towards expediting the rate of genetic improvement of the communal wool sheep flocks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Dreyer, Susanna Maria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Wool industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39480 , vital:35265
- Description: Previous studies conducted on wool production in the communal areas of the Eastern Cape have concluded future research should focus on whether the observed differences in average wool price received between shearing sheds are due to differences in clip preparation (i.e. classing) or differences in the quality of the wool being produced (i.e. genetics).The objective of this study was to establish whether there are indeed geographical differences in the average wool price received by communal wool producers in the Eastern Cape and, if so, whether this difference in earnings is attributable to differences in the quality of wool produced and/or clip preparation. The current research explored eight years of wool production records of communal wool farmers (2009/10 to 2016/17) obtained from BKB, the largest wool broker in South Africa. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, parametric tests (i.e. t-test) and multiple regression analysis. The conclusions drawn from this study are: that there are indeed statistically significant differences in the average wool price received between the different geographic areas of the Eastern Cape communal regions, and that the primary determining factor is wool quality, while clip preparation also plays an important but secondary role. The study identified specific geographic areas where developmental interventions are most critical, with specific emphasis on improving the genetic composition of the wool sheep flocks. Specific strategies are recommended, namely:Removing inferior-quality rams and replacing them with superior-quality rams to prevent any inferior nondescript rams from breeding and producing progeny; Replacing the inferior-quality nondescript ewes in specific areas with superior-quality ewes, and Improving the survival rate of lambs and thereby contributing towards expediting the rate of genetic improvement of the communal wool sheep flocks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A co-constructed practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law
- Authors: Abdulla, Zurina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Children's rights -- South Africa , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc --South Africa , Parent and child -- Research -- South Africa , Social work with youth -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30474 , vital:30949
- Description: The unique historical stressors linked to South Africa’s apartheid legacy, continues to manifest in the form of economic exclusion, social exclusion, inequality and poverty, with parents being subjugated to service users and extenders rather than included as service advocates, particularly in the child justice system. Furthermore, policies and practices do not include, engage and support parents on an intra and interpersonal level. Parents of children in conflict with the law, experience their children’s charge or arrest as well as their subsequent journey through the child justice system as a crisis resulting in their need for emotional, informational, practical and professional support during the child justice process. The similarities and differences between the contexts of child protection and child justice in supporting parents illuminates the existing gaps in child justice legislation, policy and practice resulting in a lack of support for parents during the child justice process. In the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, it is recognised that parents have a legal responsibility towards their children and that in fulfilling this responsibility parents can access support services to assist them when they face challenges in fulfilling this responsibility. In contrast, despite 80 percent of children in conflict with the law being released into parental care and parents expressing the need for support in fulfilling their parental responsibility, in this regard the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 fails to make provision for parents to access support services. The child justice system’s narrow focus on parents as service extenders contributes to parents’ being excluded from targeted support services resulting in parents’ support needs not being addressed. The lack of programmes and services aimed at supporting parents highlight the need for coordinated services that address the multiple stressors parents are exposed to. To this end, this study was aimed at coconstructing a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law. The theoretical lenses employed in the current study namely; the Ecological systems model and the Buffering effect model describes the various systems parents need support from and the type of support they need from their family, community and professionals. Guided by a qualitative approach, the present study integrated applied research, in particular intervention design and development with participatory action research as it allowed systematic collaboration during the research process to ensure rigour. This study involved participants from two research sites namely, the Nerina One- Stop Child Justice Centre in Port Elizabeth and the Reception, Assessment and Referral office at the Uitenhage magistrates’ court. Employing a non-probability purposive sampling method, this study facilitated the participation of parents of children in conflict with the law and child justice officials who met the inclusion criteria, in the co-design and development of a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law. Participants assumed an expert and collaborative role, which enabled the co-construction of knowledge, meaning and innovation of the practice model. Qualitative data collection methods namely, twelve focus groups and thirty two participant observations, were used to explore, co-construct, describe and design a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law during the child justice process. Thematic analyses was employed to condense the data, search for codes, categories, themes, relationships and patterns in the data. Due to the research approach and design, data analysis was ongoing and informed design and development of the practice model. Based on the thematic analysis and synthesis both descriptive and analytic themes emerged. To ensure trustworthiness, this study employed various strategies to strengthen commitment, rigour, transparency and coherence. In addition, the participative research process, the inclusion of multiple forms of qualitative inquiry and the significance of the study contributed to the validity and quality of the study. Ethical considerations applicable to the study included participants’ voluntary participation, their informed consent and ensuring participants’ privacy or maintaining confidentially. Various strategies were employed to prevent or minimise risk to participants. The findings showed that formal sources of support, in particular, offer opportunities for parents to access individual and family counselling, parenting advice, and peer support. The study also highlighted the importance of recognising parents as a subsystem in the child justice system offers potential opportunities for inclusion of parents as co-facilitators of parenting programmes or support groups, as peer supporters during the child justice process. Parents’ inclusion as a partner in the child justice system is highlighted as an opportunity for parents to be able to vi participate in child justice fora, oversight committees and accreditation committees to influence policy, services and budget allocations for services to support parents of children in conflict with the law. This study’s contribution to the existing body of knowledge is an integrated, multidisciplinary, multi-phase co-constructed practice model that would enable inclusion of, and support for, parents of children in conflict with the law prior to, during and after the child justice. The co-constructed practice model (a) involves a continuum of parent-centred support for and inclusion of parents prior to, during and after the child justice process; (b) advances an inclusive and collaborative child justice system that views parents as important stakeholders in determining the type of services they need and being involved in developing practice; and (c) promotes parents as equal partners in decision making and policy making to influence legislation, policy and practice in the child justice system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Abdulla, Zurina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Children's rights -- South Africa , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc --South Africa , Parent and child -- Research -- South Africa , Social work with youth -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30474 , vital:30949
- Description: The unique historical stressors linked to South Africa’s apartheid legacy, continues to manifest in the form of economic exclusion, social exclusion, inequality and poverty, with parents being subjugated to service users and extenders rather than included as service advocates, particularly in the child justice system. Furthermore, policies and practices do not include, engage and support parents on an intra and interpersonal level. Parents of children in conflict with the law, experience their children’s charge or arrest as well as their subsequent journey through the child justice system as a crisis resulting in their need for emotional, informational, practical and professional support during the child justice process. The similarities and differences between the contexts of child protection and child justice in supporting parents illuminates the existing gaps in child justice legislation, policy and practice resulting in a lack of support for parents during the child justice process. In the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, it is recognised that parents have a legal responsibility towards their children and that in fulfilling this responsibility parents can access support services to assist them when they face challenges in fulfilling this responsibility. In contrast, despite 80 percent of children in conflict with the law being released into parental care and parents expressing the need for support in fulfilling their parental responsibility, in this regard the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 fails to make provision for parents to access support services. The child justice system’s narrow focus on parents as service extenders contributes to parents’ being excluded from targeted support services resulting in parents’ support needs not being addressed. The lack of programmes and services aimed at supporting parents highlight the need for coordinated services that address the multiple stressors parents are exposed to. To this end, this study was aimed at coconstructing a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law. The theoretical lenses employed in the current study namely; the Ecological systems model and the Buffering effect model describes the various systems parents need support from and the type of support they need from their family, community and professionals. Guided by a qualitative approach, the present study integrated applied research, in particular intervention design and development with participatory action research as it allowed systematic collaboration during the research process to ensure rigour. This study involved participants from two research sites namely, the Nerina One- Stop Child Justice Centre in Port Elizabeth and the Reception, Assessment and Referral office at the Uitenhage magistrates’ court. Employing a non-probability purposive sampling method, this study facilitated the participation of parents of children in conflict with the law and child justice officials who met the inclusion criteria, in the co-design and development of a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law. Participants assumed an expert and collaborative role, which enabled the co-construction of knowledge, meaning and innovation of the practice model. Qualitative data collection methods namely, twelve focus groups and thirty two participant observations, were used to explore, co-construct, describe and design a practice model for supporting parents of children in conflict with the law during the child justice process. Thematic analyses was employed to condense the data, search for codes, categories, themes, relationships and patterns in the data. Due to the research approach and design, data analysis was ongoing and informed design and development of the practice model. Based on the thematic analysis and synthesis both descriptive and analytic themes emerged. To ensure trustworthiness, this study employed various strategies to strengthen commitment, rigour, transparency and coherence. In addition, the participative research process, the inclusion of multiple forms of qualitative inquiry and the significance of the study contributed to the validity and quality of the study. Ethical considerations applicable to the study included participants’ voluntary participation, their informed consent and ensuring participants’ privacy or maintaining confidentially. Various strategies were employed to prevent or minimise risk to participants. The findings showed that formal sources of support, in particular, offer opportunities for parents to access individual and family counselling, parenting advice, and peer support. The study also highlighted the importance of recognising parents as a subsystem in the child justice system offers potential opportunities for inclusion of parents as co-facilitators of parenting programmes or support groups, as peer supporters during the child justice process. Parents’ inclusion as a partner in the child justice system is highlighted as an opportunity for parents to be able to vi participate in child justice fora, oversight committees and accreditation committees to influence policy, services and budget allocations for services to support parents of children in conflict with the law. This study’s contribution to the existing body of knowledge is an integrated, multidisciplinary, multi-phase co-constructed practice model that would enable inclusion of, and support for, parents of children in conflict with the law prior to, during and after the child justice. The co-constructed practice model (a) involves a continuum of parent-centred support for and inclusion of parents prior to, during and after the child justice process; (b) advances an inclusive and collaborative child justice system that views parents as important stakeholders in determining the type of services they need and being involved in developing practice; and (c) promotes parents as equal partners in decision making and policy making to influence legislation, policy and practice in the child justice system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A comparative study of artificial neural networks and physics models as simulators in evolutionary robotics
- Pretorius, Christiaan Johannes
- Authors: Pretorius, Christiaan Johannes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30789 , vital:31131
- Description: The Evolutionary Robotics (ER) process is a technique that applies evolutionary optimization algorithms to the task of automatically developing, or evolving, robotic control programs. These control programs, or simply controllers, are evolved in order to allow a robot to perform a required task. During the ER process, use is often made of robotic simulators to evaluate the performance of candidate controllers that are produced in the course of the controller evolution process. Such simulators accelerate and otherwise simplify the controller evolution process, as opposed to the more arduous process of evaluating controllers in the real world without use of simulation. To date, the vast majority of simulators that have been applied in ER are physics- based models which are constructed by taking into account the underlying physics governing the operation of the robotic system in question. An alternative approach to simulator implementation in ER is the usage of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) as simulators in the ER process. Such simulators are referred to as Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs). Previous studies have indicated that SNNs can successfully be used as an alter- native to physics-based simulators in the ER process on various robotic platforms. At the commencement of the current study it was not, however, known how this relatively new method of simulation would compare to traditional physics-based simulation approaches in ER. The study presented in this thesis thus endeavoured to quantitatively compare SNNs and physics-based models as simulators in the ER process. In order to con- duct this comparative study, both SNNs and physics simulators were constructed for the modelling of three different robotic platforms: a differentially-steered robot, a wheeled inverted pendulum robot and a hexapod robot. Each of these two types of simulation was then used in simulation-based evolution processes to evolve con- trollers for each robotic platform. During these controller evolution processes, the SNNs and physics models were compared in terms of their accuracy in making pre- dictions of robotic behaviour, their computational efficiency in arriving at these predictions, the human effort required to construct each simulator and, most im- portantly, the real-world performance of controllers evolved by making use of each simulator. The results obtained in this study illustrated experimentally that SNNs were, in the majority of cases, able to make more accurate predictions than the physics- based models and these SNNs were arguably simpler to construct than the physics simulators. Additionally, SNNs were also shown to be a computationally efficient alternative to physics-based simulators in ER and, again in the majority of cases, these SNNs were able to produce controllers which outperformed those evolved in the physics-based simulators, when these controllers were uploaded to the real-world robots. The results of this thesis thus suggest that SNNs are a viable alternative to more commonly-used physics simulators in ER and further investigation of the potential of this simulation technique appears warranted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Pretorius, Christiaan Johannes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30789 , vital:31131
- Description: The Evolutionary Robotics (ER) process is a technique that applies evolutionary optimization algorithms to the task of automatically developing, or evolving, robotic control programs. These control programs, or simply controllers, are evolved in order to allow a robot to perform a required task. During the ER process, use is often made of robotic simulators to evaluate the performance of candidate controllers that are produced in the course of the controller evolution process. Such simulators accelerate and otherwise simplify the controller evolution process, as opposed to the more arduous process of evaluating controllers in the real world without use of simulation. To date, the vast majority of simulators that have been applied in ER are physics- based models which are constructed by taking into account the underlying physics governing the operation of the robotic system in question. An alternative approach to simulator implementation in ER is the usage of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) as simulators in the ER process. Such simulators are referred to as Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs). Previous studies have indicated that SNNs can successfully be used as an alter- native to physics-based simulators in the ER process on various robotic platforms. At the commencement of the current study it was not, however, known how this relatively new method of simulation would compare to traditional physics-based simulation approaches in ER. The study presented in this thesis thus endeavoured to quantitatively compare SNNs and physics-based models as simulators in the ER process. In order to con- duct this comparative study, both SNNs and physics simulators were constructed for the modelling of three different robotic platforms: a differentially-steered robot, a wheeled inverted pendulum robot and a hexapod robot. Each of these two types of simulation was then used in simulation-based evolution processes to evolve con- trollers for each robotic platform. During these controller evolution processes, the SNNs and physics models were compared in terms of their accuracy in making pre- dictions of robotic behaviour, their computational efficiency in arriving at these predictions, the human effort required to construct each simulator and, most im- portantly, the real-world performance of controllers evolved by making use of each simulator. The results obtained in this study illustrated experimentally that SNNs were, in the majority of cases, able to make more accurate predictions than the physics- based models and these SNNs were arguably simpler to construct than the physics simulators. Additionally, SNNs were also shown to be a computationally efficient alternative to physics-based simulators in ER and, again in the majority of cases, these SNNs were able to produce controllers which outperformed those evolved in the physics-based simulators, when these controllers were uploaded to the real-world robots. The results of this thesis thus suggest that SNNs are a viable alternative to more commonly-used physics simulators in ER and further investigation of the potential of this simulation technique appears warranted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A comparison of different strategies to control pests and diseases in Brassica spp. production in the Western Cape
- Van Niekerk, Abraham Johannes
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Abraham Johannes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pesticides , Pests -- Control Agricultural pests , Plant diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44122 , vital:37113
- Description: Brassica spp. are cultivated all over the world, commercial species include: cabbage, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi and turnip. In this study the focus was on broccoli (Brassica oleracea) production in the Western Cape province of South Africa and its economically important pests and diseases: sugar beet cyst nematode (Heterodera schachtii), diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), white blister (Albugo candida) and clubroot (Plasmodiophora brassicae), and the different methods to control these pests and diseases. The control methods focused on in this study included a commercial chemical control programme, a biological control programme and a holistic approach. Other factors were bio-fumigation and chemical fumigation and different crop rotation practices including rotation crops versus no rotation crops. The experimental design was a strip split plot design, with different pest and disease management strategies as the main plot treatment and fumigation and rotation treatment combinations arranged in strips across the main plot treatments. The main plot design was a randomized complete block with four programmes (Control, Holistic, Chemical and Biological) replicated four times and laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD). The treatment design of the strip plot factors was a 2x2 factorial with two fumigations (fumigated chemically and fumigated biologically) and two rotations (crop rotated and monoculture) randomly allocated across main plot treatments. Each experimental unit consisted of 40 plants. Plants were evaluated weekly for the incidence of white blister and diamondback moth. Incidences of clubroot and white blister infection of heads of broccoli were recorded 78 days after planting. Baseline soil samples were analysed to establish the soil chemical properties. Post-trial soil samples were also analysed to investigate the effect of the different practices and programmes on the soil chemical properties. Nematodes were extracted pre-trial and post-trial, and the effect of fumigation and crop rotation on plant parasitic nematodes and the nematode population diversity investigated. In the post-trial soil chemical analysis, a significantly higher concentration of Na was recorded for the biological programme when crop rotation was included compared to the no rotation treatment. The concentration of K was also significantly higher in the no rotation compared to the rotation treatment. The nematode results showed very high numbers of bacterial feeders in all the samples. Overall nematode diversity was lacking and showed very few fungal feeders, omnivores and predators. The nematode indices for all of the samples showed that nematodes were highly enriched and unstructured. Of the plant parasitic nematodes, only Heterodera spp. were obtained in the pre-trial analysis, and incidences of these nematodes were lower at the end of the trial. Low numbers of other plant parasitic nematodes viz. Pratylenchus, Paratrichodorus and Tylenchorhynchus were reported for the post-trial analysis of the soil. Because of the low numbers of plant parasitic nematodes, it was not possible to analyse the data statistically. With regard to diamondback moth and the fungal diseases, crop rotation and fumigation did not significantly affect the incidence of white blister and diamondback moth. A significant “days after planting by control programme” interaction was reported for the incidence of white blister on foliage and the incidence of diamondback moth. All three control programmes significantly reduced the incidence of diamondback moth with the chemical programme being significantly more effective than the other two programmes. All three programmes also significantly reduced the incidence of white blister on foliage and the holistic and biological programmes significantly reduced the incidence of white blister on broccoli heads with the holistic programme being significantly more effective than the biological programme. There was no clubroot infection in the trial for any of the treatments. Results of this study showed that it is possible to manage diseases and pests of broccoli using a holistic approach. However, long term trials are needed to confirm the results obtained in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Abraham Johannes
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pesticides , Pests -- Control Agricultural pests , Plant diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44122 , vital:37113
- Description: Brassica spp. are cultivated all over the world, commercial species include: cabbage, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi and turnip. In this study the focus was on broccoli (Brassica oleracea) production in the Western Cape province of South Africa and its economically important pests and diseases: sugar beet cyst nematode (Heterodera schachtii), diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), white blister (Albugo candida) and clubroot (Plasmodiophora brassicae), and the different methods to control these pests and diseases. The control methods focused on in this study included a commercial chemical control programme, a biological control programme and a holistic approach. Other factors were bio-fumigation and chemical fumigation and different crop rotation practices including rotation crops versus no rotation crops. The experimental design was a strip split plot design, with different pest and disease management strategies as the main plot treatment and fumigation and rotation treatment combinations arranged in strips across the main plot treatments. The main plot design was a randomized complete block with four programmes (Control, Holistic, Chemical and Biological) replicated four times and laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD). The treatment design of the strip plot factors was a 2x2 factorial with two fumigations (fumigated chemically and fumigated biologically) and two rotations (crop rotated and monoculture) randomly allocated across main plot treatments. Each experimental unit consisted of 40 plants. Plants were evaluated weekly for the incidence of white blister and diamondback moth. Incidences of clubroot and white blister infection of heads of broccoli were recorded 78 days after planting. Baseline soil samples were analysed to establish the soil chemical properties. Post-trial soil samples were also analysed to investigate the effect of the different practices and programmes on the soil chemical properties. Nematodes were extracted pre-trial and post-trial, and the effect of fumigation and crop rotation on plant parasitic nematodes and the nematode population diversity investigated. In the post-trial soil chemical analysis, a significantly higher concentration of Na was recorded for the biological programme when crop rotation was included compared to the no rotation treatment. The concentration of K was also significantly higher in the no rotation compared to the rotation treatment. The nematode results showed very high numbers of bacterial feeders in all the samples. Overall nematode diversity was lacking and showed very few fungal feeders, omnivores and predators. The nematode indices for all of the samples showed that nematodes were highly enriched and unstructured. Of the plant parasitic nematodes, only Heterodera spp. were obtained in the pre-trial analysis, and incidences of these nematodes were lower at the end of the trial. Low numbers of other plant parasitic nematodes viz. Pratylenchus, Paratrichodorus and Tylenchorhynchus were reported for the post-trial analysis of the soil. Because of the low numbers of plant parasitic nematodes, it was not possible to analyse the data statistically. With regard to diamondback moth and the fungal diseases, crop rotation and fumigation did not significantly affect the incidence of white blister and diamondback moth. A significant “days after planting by control programme” interaction was reported for the incidence of white blister on foliage and the incidence of diamondback moth. All three control programmes significantly reduced the incidence of diamondback moth with the chemical programme being significantly more effective than the other two programmes. All three programmes also significantly reduced the incidence of white blister on foliage and the holistic and biological programmes significantly reduced the incidence of white blister on broccoli heads with the holistic programme being significantly more effective than the biological programme. There was no clubroot infection in the trial for any of the treatments. Results of this study showed that it is possible to manage diseases and pests of broccoli using a holistic approach. However, long term trials are needed to confirm the results obtained in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A comprehensive support programme for professional nurses performing HIV counselling and testing at primary health care clinics in the rural Eastern Cape
- Authors: Madolo, Agrinette Nomboniso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of , Primary health care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40746 , vital:36232
- Description: The increase in global rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has had far reaching effects on healthcare services around the world. According to the 2017 statistics released by UNAIDS, South Africa has the largest HIV epidemic in the world. The South African Department of Health provides an HIV counselling and testing (HCT) service to patients in order that they may know their HIV status and endeavours to educate patients so that they may adapt their behaviours and lifestyles. The goal of this study is to develop a support programme for nurses to assist them in coping emotionally with their day-to-day activities when providing HCT services to patients attending primary healthcare clinics. The paradigm used as a lens to view the phenomenon is Kinlaw’s cyclical growth of empowerment theory. The researcher used a qualitative,explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The study involves three phases: (a) empirical research that explores nurses’ experiences of performing HCT in primary healthcare rural clinics, (b) the development of a conceptual framework for a support programme using the survey list of Dickoff et al. (1968:427). (c) the formalisation of the Comprehensive Support Programme to help nurses to cope emotionally with working with HCT on a long-term basis. Chinn and Kramer (2005118) were used to evaluate the programme. . The empirical findings revealed registered nurses experienced HCT both positively and negatively. They felt overwhelmed by the expectation that all patients attending primary healthcare clinics should be offered HCT routinely and the time constraints involved. They described how the emotional trauma attached to HCT affected their work patterns, leading to low productivity, and affected them outside work, leading to stress and sleep disturbances. They feltl disturbed that even when informed, people choose not to adopt safer sex practices and that how patients responded to a positive diagnosis cannot be predicted. Participants showed signs of stress, frustration, despair and sadness because most tested clients show positive test results and the number of clients testing positive is increasing. While participants felt helpless to improve the situation, at the same time, HCT was experienced as rewarding because it enabled diagnosis of medical conditions of which people weree not aware. The goal of the study was achieved with the development and formalisation of an extensive, relevant and applicable Comprehensive Support Programme for implementation for registered nurses to enable them cope emotionally when conducting HCT based on the empirical findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Madolo, Agrinette Nomboniso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of , Primary health care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40746 , vital:36232
- Description: The increase in global rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has had far reaching effects on healthcare services around the world. According to the 2017 statistics released by UNAIDS, South Africa has the largest HIV epidemic in the world. The South African Department of Health provides an HIV counselling and testing (HCT) service to patients in order that they may know their HIV status and endeavours to educate patients so that they may adapt their behaviours and lifestyles. The goal of this study is to develop a support programme for nurses to assist them in coping emotionally with their day-to-day activities when providing HCT services to patients attending primary healthcare clinics. The paradigm used as a lens to view the phenomenon is Kinlaw’s cyclical growth of empowerment theory. The researcher used a qualitative,explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The study involves three phases: (a) empirical research that explores nurses’ experiences of performing HCT in primary healthcare rural clinics, (b) the development of a conceptual framework for a support programme using the survey list of Dickoff et al. (1968:427). (c) the formalisation of the Comprehensive Support Programme to help nurses to cope emotionally with working with HCT on a long-term basis. Chinn and Kramer (2005118) were used to evaluate the programme. . The empirical findings revealed registered nurses experienced HCT both positively and negatively. They felt overwhelmed by the expectation that all patients attending primary healthcare clinics should be offered HCT routinely and the time constraints involved. They described how the emotional trauma attached to HCT affected their work patterns, leading to low productivity, and affected them outside work, leading to stress and sleep disturbances. They feltl disturbed that even when informed, people choose not to adopt safer sex practices and that how patients responded to a positive diagnosis cannot be predicted. Participants showed signs of stress, frustration, despair and sadness because most tested clients show positive test results and the number of clients testing positive is increasing. While participants felt helpless to improve the situation, at the same time, HCT was experienced as rewarding because it enabled diagnosis of medical conditions of which people weree not aware. The goal of the study was achieved with the development and formalisation of an extensive, relevant and applicable Comprehensive Support Programme for implementation for registered nurses to enable them cope emotionally when conducting HCT based on the empirical findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A critical analysis of South African anti-money laundering legislation regarding cryptocurrency
- Authors: Bowden, Susan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Money laundering -- South Africa , Money -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Electronic funds transfers Money -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42107 , vital:36626
- Description: Cryptocurrencies are decentralised virtual currencies, using blockchain technology to process peer-to-peer electronic payments. In 2009, the first successful cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, was established. As a result of the Internet, cryptocurrencies had soon made their way into South Africa. As such, cryptocurrencies are currently not included under the definition of a legal tender and therefore remain unregulated by the legal framework. This issue is examined within this research project. The objectives were to understand the concepts of cryptocurrency, the relevance in the financial sector, the associated risks and to establish whether regulatory interference is necessary for the operation of cryptocurrency. The legal and regulatory framework of cryptocurrencies within Canada, the United States of America and the European Union were compared to that of South Africa. The research explained that cryptocurrencies are decentralised convertible currencies which are secured by cryptography. It highlighted the risks associated with cryptocurrencies, some of which are detrimental due to the wide use of cryptocurrencies. One of the risks included using cryptocurrencies to launder money. In order to mitigate these risks, jurisdictions such as Canada, the United States of America and the European Union have begun to regulate cryptocurrencies by establishing a legal framework for its operation. However, no such legal framework existed in South Africa for the regulation of cryptocurrencies. As a result, the South African Reserve Bank and National Treasury released position papers, which warn consumers of the associated risks. Therefore, the conclusion was made that regulatory intervention is necessary in South Africa. Following this, the recommendation was made to integrate cryptocurrencies into relevant existing legislation. It was recommended that regulation is the most effective method of combatting money laundering using cryptocurrencies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bowden, Susan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Money laundering -- South Africa , Money -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Electronic funds transfers Money -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42107 , vital:36626
- Description: Cryptocurrencies are decentralised virtual currencies, using blockchain technology to process peer-to-peer electronic payments. In 2009, the first successful cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, was established. As a result of the Internet, cryptocurrencies had soon made their way into South Africa. As such, cryptocurrencies are currently not included under the definition of a legal tender and therefore remain unregulated by the legal framework. This issue is examined within this research project. The objectives were to understand the concepts of cryptocurrency, the relevance in the financial sector, the associated risks and to establish whether regulatory interference is necessary for the operation of cryptocurrency. The legal and regulatory framework of cryptocurrencies within Canada, the United States of America and the European Union were compared to that of South Africa. The research explained that cryptocurrencies are decentralised convertible currencies which are secured by cryptography. It highlighted the risks associated with cryptocurrencies, some of which are detrimental due to the wide use of cryptocurrencies. One of the risks included using cryptocurrencies to launder money. In order to mitigate these risks, jurisdictions such as Canada, the United States of America and the European Union have begun to regulate cryptocurrencies by establishing a legal framework for its operation. However, no such legal framework existed in South Africa for the regulation of cryptocurrencies. As a result, the South African Reserve Bank and National Treasury released position papers, which warn consumers of the associated risks. Therefore, the conclusion was made that regulatory intervention is necessary in South Africa. Following this, the recommendation was made to integrate cryptocurrencies into relevant existing legislation. It was recommended that regulation is the most effective method of combatting money laundering using cryptocurrencies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A critical analysis of the South African government's approach to social cohesion
- Authors: Daniels, Lorna
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social integration , Social participation Economics -- Sociological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38079 , vital:34315
- Description: The work of scholars and government programme have in the last decade or more paid a considerable amount of attention to the issue of fostering social cohesion under conditions on the increase rate of community- level upheavals and localized conflict. While some studies critique the South African government’s social cohesion strategy of 2012 in the main, others seek to identify its measurements and develop barometers to track its progress.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Daniels, Lorna
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social integration , Social participation Economics -- Sociological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38079 , vital:34315
- Description: The work of scholars and government programme have in the last decade or more paid a considerable amount of attention to the issue of fostering social cohesion under conditions on the increase rate of community- level upheavals and localized conflict. While some studies critique the South African government’s social cohesion strategy of 2012 in the main, others seek to identify its measurements and develop barometers to track its progress.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
A crowdsensing method for water resource monitoring in smart communities
- Authors: Banda, Clara Mloza
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Data collection platforms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42449 , vital:36658
- Description: Crowdsensing aims to empower a large group of individuals to collect large amounts of data using their mobile devices, with the goal of sharing the collected data. Existing crowdsensing studies do not consider all the activities and methods of the crowdsensing process and the key success factors related to the process. Nor do they investigate the profile and behaviour of potential participants. The aim of this study was to design a crowdsensing method for water resource monitoring in smart communities. This study opted for an exploratory study using the Engaged Scholarship approach, which allows the study of complex real-world problems based on the different perspectives of key stakeholders. The proposed Crowdsensing Method considers the social, technical and programme design components. The study proposes a programme design for the Crowdsensing Methodwhich is crowdsensing ReferenceFrameworkthat includes Crowdsensing Processwith key success factors and guidelines that should be considered in each phase of the process. The method also uses the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to investigate citizens’intention to participate in crowdsensing for water resource monitoring and explores their attitudes, norms and perceived behavioural control on these intentions. Understanding the profiles of potential participants can assist with designing crowdsensing systems with appropriate incentive mechanisms to achieve adequate user participation and good service quality. A survey was conducted to validate the theoretical TB model in a real-world context. Regression and correlation analyses demonstrated that the attitudes, norms and perceived behavioural control can be used to predict participants’ intention to participate in crowdsensing for water resource monitoring. The survey results assisted with the development of an Incentive Mechanism as part of the Crowdsensing Method. This mechanism incorporates recruitment and incentive policies, as well as guidelines derived from the literature review and extant system analysis. The policies, called the OverSensepolicies, provide guidance for recruitment and rewarding of participants using the popular Stackelberg technique. The policies were evaluated using simulation experiments with a data set provided by the case study, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The results of the simulation experiments illustrated that the OverSenserecruitmentpolicycan reduce the computing resources required for the recruitment of participants and that the recruitment policy performs better than random or naïve recruitment policies. The proposed Crowdsensing Method was evaluated using an ecosystem of success factors for mobile-based interventions identified in the literature and the Crowdsensing Method adhered to a majority (90%) of the success factors. This study also contributes information systems design theory by proposing several sets of guidelines for crowdsensing projects and the development of crowdsensing systems. This study fulfils an identified need to study the applicability of crowdsensing for water resource monitoring and explores how a crowdsensing method can create a smart community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Banda, Clara Mloza
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Data collection platforms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42449 , vital:36658
- Description: Crowdsensing aims to empower a large group of individuals to collect large amounts of data using their mobile devices, with the goal of sharing the collected data. Existing crowdsensing studies do not consider all the activities and methods of the crowdsensing process and the key success factors related to the process. Nor do they investigate the profile and behaviour of potential participants. The aim of this study was to design a crowdsensing method for water resource monitoring in smart communities. This study opted for an exploratory study using the Engaged Scholarship approach, which allows the study of complex real-world problems based on the different perspectives of key stakeholders. The proposed Crowdsensing Method considers the social, technical and programme design components. The study proposes a programme design for the Crowdsensing Methodwhich is crowdsensing ReferenceFrameworkthat includes Crowdsensing Processwith key success factors and guidelines that should be considered in each phase of the process. The method also uses the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to investigate citizens’intention to participate in crowdsensing for water resource monitoring and explores their attitudes, norms and perceived behavioural control on these intentions. Understanding the profiles of potential participants can assist with designing crowdsensing systems with appropriate incentive mechanisms to achieve adequate user participation and good service quality. A survey was conducted to validate the theoretical TB model in a real-world context. Regression and correlation analyses demonstrated that the attitudes, norms and perceived behavioural control can be used to predict participants’ intention to participate in crowdsensing for water resource monitoring. The survey results assisted with the development of an Incentive Mechanism as part of the Crowdsensing Method. This mechanism incorporates recruitment and incentive policies, as well as guidelines derived from the literature review and extant system analysis. The policies, called the OverSensepolicies, provide guidance for recruitment and rewarding of participants using the popular Stackelberg technique. The policies were evaluated using simulation experiments with a data set provided by the case study, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The results of the simulation experiments illustrated that the OverSenserecruitmentpolicycan reduce the computing resources required for the recruitment of participants and that the recruitment policy performs better than random or naïve recruitment policies. The proposed Crowdsensing Method was evaluated using an ecosystem of success factors for mobile-based interventions identified in the literature and the Crowdsensing Method adhered to a majority (90%) of the success factors. This study also contributes information systems design theory by proposing several sets of guidelines for crowdsensing projects and the development of crowdsensing systems. This study fulfils an identified need to study the applicability of crowdsensing for water resource monitoring and explores how a crowdsensing method can create a smart community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019