A psychosocial study of young adults’ experiences of their sibling’s mental illness
- Authors: Laurie, Gina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- South Africa -- Case studies , Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- Psychology , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mentally ill -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6165 , vital:21053
- Description: There are a number of studies that investigate the experiences of mental illness in the context of sibling relationships. However, these studies have not focused on young adulthood and limited research has been conducted in South Africa. This research uses a psychosocial framework which combines psychoanalytic theory and social constructionism to account for individual subjectivity and social influences. This method sought to answer two main research questions: how do young adults construct their experiences of having a sibling with a mental illness and with what effects, and how might we understand the emotional investments in these constructions? Six participants were interviewed and the findings suggest that participants draw on four main discourses in constructing their siblings’ mental illness: a discourse of mental illness as a sickness, a discourse of mental illness as part of the person, a discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, and a discourse of mental illness as a spiritual issue. These discourses and the function of these discourses are discussed. Furthermore, an extract from one participant is examined in a case study format so as to explore the emotional investments in the discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, arguing that her investments in this discourse serves to protect her by enabling her to manage feelings of not being ‘good enough’.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A real estate management framework for the public sector in South Africa
- Authors: Moleko, Thabang Vuyani Qaqambile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Real estate management -- South Africa , Real property -- South Africa Real estate development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19135 , vital:28776
- Description: Organisations have realised that fixed asset portfolio or real estate portfolio can be the second or third largest operating cost of an organisation. Management has not placed sufficient attention to how to treat real estate as a strategic asset that is part of corporate strategy. This is now called Corporate Real Estate Management (CREM) which is now embraced as a way of incorporating the strategy and management of real estate into the corporate strategy imperatives in the management of all successful organisations with a property portfolio. Property and land are part of the narrative of the painful legacy of apartheid and dispossession in South Africa. The South African government has a sizable property portfolio that should be supporting its strategic and necessary service delivery needs. The state property portfolio has an urgent maintenance backlog and concedes it has performed poor overall management of the portfolio. The rectification of the backlog and the new buildings are required at a significant cost to the taxpayer. The state has to start using CREM in the management of their public sector real estate assets(PSRE). The study seeks to see if public sector organisations have adopted the principles of CREM into their management of PSRE. The study has reviewed the variables of planning, processes, competencies, information, operations and structure around PSRE. These majority of these variables have been shown an influence on the wellbeing of the public-sector property portfolio and the functioning of public sector as a whole.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A record of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) diet in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Botswana
- Authors: Craig, Christie A , Brassine, Eleanor I , Parker, Daniel M
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123004 , vital:35395 , https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12374
- Description: Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) typically prey upon the most available small to medium-sized (23–56 kg) antelope (Hayward et al., 2006). In Botswana, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), followed by steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), are the prey species most frequently killed by cheetahs (Klein, 2007). Juvenile eland (Tragelaphus oryx), gemsbok (Oryx gazella), hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus) and kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) are also taken (Klein, 2007). The Northern Tuli Game Reserve (NOTUGRE) in eastern Botswana is naturally delineated by the nonperennial Shashe and Limpopo rivers in the east and south and has relatively porous game fencing along portions of the western and southern boundaries (Fig. 1) (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). Neither the fences nor the rivers restrict the movement of large carnivores such as cheetahs, lions (Panthera leo), leopards (Panthera pardus), spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) and African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) onto neighbouring pastoral land (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). It is thus possible that cheetahs are feeding on livestock outside of the park. However, the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE has not been evaluated. Our study serves to describe the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE using both scats and kill sightings.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A review of how teachers are using the renewable energy materials in their lessons
- Authors: Lambrechts, Therese
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- South Africa , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/13888 , vital:21864
- Description: Climate change and renewable energy have recently become part of the school curriculum in South Africa. Many teachers at the secondary school level thus have to teach topics with which they are not (necessarily) familiar. The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies at Stellenbosch University has established a schools' programme to provide materials to aid the educators in the teaching of renewable energy topics. A research-based set of Learning Teaching Support Material (LTSM) was developed for high school educators. The learning material includes a DVD, PowerPoint presentations, posters, a teacher's manual, and assignments that can be used in different subjects. This study reports and reviews how teachers are currently using the material. Teacher accounts of materials use and evidence of learning in students work were solicited using an appreciative inquiry review process. The data reflected the value being created through patterns of materials use. A Vygotskian based task sequencing framework of Anne Edwards was used to examine the patterns of use which support learning. The use of the task sequencing as an analytical lens allowed the review to probe how knowledge representation was the primary use by teachers. Here they introduced learners to key concepts and to broaden their knowledge on renewable energy. The activities served to scaffold a clear learning progression but the activities were not strongly enough orientated towards ESD as learner-led processes of enquiry and action. The outcomes of the study will be used to update and better align the materials with a need for teachers to strengthen important ESD outcomes in the current curriculum.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A review of the development and enactment of a radio programme on rainwater harvesting in expanding social learning interactions: a case of the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lupele, Chisala
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network , Amanzi for Food , Radio in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational broadcasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Radio stations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental education -- South Africa , Water conservation -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Rhodes University. Environmental Learning Research Centre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/12991 , vital:21786
- Description: The use of radio and associated information and communications technologies (ICTs) has not been widely explored as a process of environmental education over the years. If environmental education is to involve many people, the use of radio and associated ICTs, particularly in community radio, needs to be researched because radio has multilayered functions. This study examines how practitioners in an agricultural Community of Practice (CoP), namely the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa developed a radio programme on rainwater harvesting for the promotion of food security. The study probes the expansion and social learning of the network and into the public sphere after broadcasts. The study draws on research data generated in the Amanzi for Food project which was funded by the Water Research Commission of South Africa and was led by the Rhodes University Environmental Learning Research Centre. Using interviews, radio programme transcripts and observations, the study found that through using their prior knowledge from a training of trainers’ course on rain water harvesting and drawing on everyday experience of rainwater harvesting the CoP members had an expansion in their mutual engagement, joint enterprise, diversity, shared repertoire and identity into a knowledge community. This learning process developed through a successive elaboration of social ecological and social articulations related to the expansive functioning of the CoP; and experience of the benefits of rainwater harvesting as radio programme listeners deliberated how the different practices related to their existing knowledge and experience. The study also found that these expansive processes of social learning occurred across the spectrum of smallholder farmers and homestead food growers in a stimulated radio listening focus group discussion. The study concludes that agriculture practitioners involved in education for sustainable development could expand their knowledge sharing platforms by giving more attention to community radio as a means of both involving participants and engaging learning communities in local environment and sustainability concerns.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A risk-based framework for new products: a South African telecommunication’s study
- Authors: Jeffries, Michael
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Telephone companies -- Risk management -- South Africa , Telephone companies -- South Africa -- Case studies , Telecommunication -- Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4765 , vital:20722
- Description: The integrated reports of Vodacom, Telkom and MTN — telecommunication organisations in South Africa — show that they are diversifying their product offerings from traditional voice and data services. These organisations are including new offerings covering the financial, health, insurance and mobile education services. The potential exists for these organisations to launch products that are substandard and which either do not take into account customer needs or do not comply with current legislations or regulations. Most telecommunication organisations have a well-defined enterprise risk management program, to ensure compliance to King III, however risk management processes specifically for new products and services might be lacking. The responsibility usually resides with the product managers for the implementation of robust products; however they do not always have the correct skillset to ensure adherence to governance requirements and therefore might not be aware of which laws they might not be adhering to, or understand the customers’ requirements. More complex products, additional competition, changes to technology and new business ventures have reinforced the need to manage risk on telecommunication products. Failure to take risk requirements into account could lead to potential fines, damage the organisation’s reputation which could lead to customers churning from these service providers. This research analyses three periods of data captured from a mobile telecommunication organisation to assess the current status quo of risk management maturity within the organisation’s product and service environment. Based on the analysis as well as industry best practices, a risk management framework for products is proposed that can assist product managers analyse concepts to ensure adherence to governance requirements. This could assist new product or service offerings in the marketplace do not create a perception of distrust by consumers.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A satrean account of the role of social narratives in the identity-formation and self-conception of the queer and intersex subject
- Authors: Phillips, Bianca Jewel
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/41554 , vital:25101
- Description: Successful, fully-fledged identity-formation and positive self-conception are contingent on the availability and sufficiency of social narratives. Following a Sartrean account of the human subject, identity will be shown to depend on externally-derived features (termed facticity). Facticity contains both material and social components. This thesis will show the two to be inextricably interlinked, and in so doing endorse Judith Butler's view that the material comes to us already seeped in social meaning. The interactive relationship between the discursive and the material will be illustrated by examining the phenomenon of intersexuality, in which the prevailing narrative of a dichotomized two-sex system has, through surgical, hormonal, and psychological procedures, become written into the flesh of non-binary individuals. The absence of affirming, diverse, and pluralistic narratives surrounding intersexuality, coupled with the imposition of the two-sex script, has (negatively) affected the material experiences, and subsequent identity-formation, of intersex individuals. Given the reliance of identity on socially-constituted facticities, the pursuit of flourishing, dignity, and an authentic and cohesive sense of self requires inclusive and diverse social scripts. Drawing on Mirander Fricker, I will elucidate how lacunae in the hermeneutical resource have resulted in confusion, unhappiness, and a lack of proper self-conception for individuals belonging to subjugated groups. Conversely, the availability of positive, diverse, and inclusive narratives will be shown to allow for more self-aware, self-determined subjects. I will ground my advocacy of inclusive, diverse social narratives in an examination of the beneficial genesis and development of the identity politics present in LGBTQIA++ movements (such as "Out and Proud", recognition of queer identity, and the development of non-binary gender). Assuming that self-understanding, authenticity, and flourishing are ethical goods that are valued, inclusive and affirming narratives for subjugated groups will be shown to be a normative necessity.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A scenario-based ICT risk assessment approach in local government
- Authors: Mcube, Unathi Unity
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Internet in public administration -- South Africa , Electronic commerce -- Government policy Municipal services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7598 , vital:21942
- Description: Information Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of conducting business within enterprises including the local government. Local government relies on the use of ICT to ensure that its objectives and goals are accomplished. The effective use of ICT within the context of local government is fundamental for the support, sustainability and growth of municipalities. Benefits associated with the effective use of ICT in local government include but are not limited to accelerated service delivery, efficiency and accountability. While these benefits cannot be disputed, it is important to realise that the use of ICT presents potential risks. Thus, good governance of ICT should be addressed in local government. However, in recent years, the Auditor-General of South Africa (AG) has identified lack of good governance of ICT in local government. Various issues have been identified as emanating from the lack of good governance of ICT and lack of adequate ICT risk assessment is a case in point. In an attempt to address the good governance of ICT local government, various documents have been formulated. However, none of these address how effective management of ICT risks can be achieved. As such, local government lacks the means to effectively address the management of ICT risk which is core to the good governance of ICT. Local government still requires urgent intervention with regard to addressing the activities of managing ICT risks, particularly ICT risk assessment. Moreover, it was revealed that the lack of adequate ICT skills and financial resources in local government elevates this problem. The above-mentioned problem is what has motivated this research study. This dissertation aims to produce an artefact in the form of an approach for ICT risk assessment in local government. It is believed that a customised approach to ICT risk assessment in local government will contribute towards solving the identified problem.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A sedimentological and structural study of the lower Ecca Group, with a focus on facies analysis of the Collingham Formation, north of Grahamstown, SE Karoo Basin, South Africa
- Authors: Slamang, Shereen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Facies (Geology) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21099 , vital:29439
- Description: A study of the Collingham Formation was conducted in the area of the Ecca Pass and Committees Drift Road some 20km north of Grahamstown, Eastern Cape. The study incorporates outcrops of the lower Ecca Group, with a focus on the Collingham Formation. The structural and sedimentological characteristics have been documented, and a detailed description and facies outcrop characterization of the Collingham Formation has been undertaken. The combined thickness of the Prince Albert (~55m), Whitehill (~12m), and Collingham (~20m) Formations is approximately 85m. These formations are composed of fine grained parallel laminated mudrocks of mostly silt- and clay-size particles. A general north-easterly dip direction is recorded with three prominent joint directions striking NNE, NNW, and ESE. Intense small scale folding is evident in the Whitehill Formation, and is likely linked to local décollement structures; while north-verging duplex faults in the Prince Albert Formation is possibly linked to a sole thrust/detachment fault rooted in rocks of the Cape Supergroup. The foreland model has been proposed for these deformational structures. Six lithofacies have been recognised in the Collingham Formation, namely; claystone facies, mudstone facies, siltstone facies, chert facies, tuff facies, and shale facies. The Collingham Formation is comprised of an upward fining sequence of sediments; seen from the gradual change from siltstone facies in the lower layers, to mudstone facies, and claystone facies in the upper layers. This was created in a delta environment whereby clay particles were held in suspension in a hypopycnal mouth bar, and slowly settled to form claystone facies. An influx of sediment caused silt particles to settle further out to sea under the influence of gravity in a hyperpycnal mouth bar, thereby forming siltstone facies. Mudstone facies formed as the sediment supply gradually depleted, subsequently reducing the concentration of silt particles. The dominance of clay particles present suggests deposition to have occurred in tranquil waters, in a possible intracratonic basin setting, where the water depth is known to be a lot shallower. An upward decrease in organic content is seen by the colour change of mudrocks from dark grey near the base to dark green grey in the upper layers. Chlorite is commonly found in thin section, SEM, and XRD, and is an indication that the formation was later subject to low grade greenschist facies metamorphism.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A smart home environment to support safety and risk monitoring for the elderly living independently
- Authors: Chiridza, Tongai
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Multisensor data fusion , Raspberry Pi (Computer) -- Programming Adaptive computing systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14851 , vital:27880
- Description: The elderly prefer to live independently despite vulnerability to age-related challenges. Constant monitoring is required in cases where the elderly are living alone. The home environment can be a dangerous environment for the elderly living independently due to adverse events that can occur at any time. The potential risks for the elderly living independently can be categorised as injury in the home, home environmental risks and inactivity due to unconsciousness. The main research objective was to develop a Smart Home Environment (SHE) that can support risk and safety monitoring for the elderly living independently. An unobtrusive and low cost SHE solution that uses a Raspberry Pi 3 model B, a Microsoft Kinect Sensor and an Aeotec 4-in-1 Multisensor was implemented. The Aeotec Multisensor was used to measure temperature, motion, lighting, and humidity in the home. Data from the multisensor was collected using OpenHAB as the Smart Home Operating System. The information was processed using the Raspberry Pi 3 and push notifications were sent when risk situations were detected. An experimental evaluation was conducted to determine the accuracy with which the prototype SHE detected abnormal events. Evaluation scripts were each evaluated five times. The results show that the prototype has an average accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of 94%, 96.92% and 88.93% respectively. The sensitivity shows that the chance of the prototype missing a risk situation is 3.08%, and the specificity shows that the chance of incorrectly classifying a non-risk situation is 11.07%. The prototype does not require any interaction on the part of the elderly. Relatives and caregivers can remotely monitor the elderly person living independently via the mobile application or a web portal. The total cost of the equipment used was below R3000.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A social justice approach for counselling psychology in South Africa: lessons from a collaborative action research intervention
- Authors: Schwartz, Abegail Faraja
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5233 , vital:20791
- Description: In the past decade, increased attention has been paid to the changing role of counselling psychology in South Africa. The aim of this study is to contribute to the debates about the social responsiveness, scope and focus of the field. The following research question was formulated: What lessons about a social justice approach can a counselling psychologist learn from a youth unemployment community engagement activity? Through engagement with a group of unemployed young people about their status and exploring the role that a counselling psychologist might take, a collaborative action research approach was employed. Data were generated through collaborative action research cycles, semi-structured interviews, social media communications and the researcher’s reflective journal. Template analysis was used to make sense of the data and generate preliminary themes. Process findings illustrated the supportive and constraining role of the academic research process, the time frame and the characteristics of the target group. The content-related findings illustrated the impact of contextual and demographic factors on the participants’ unemployed status. The findings confirmed the negative effect of unemployment on psychological well-being despite support from family, friends and community members. Factors such as education and socioeconomic status influenced the job seeking behaviour of participants and although participants were aware that societal change is needed, there was evidence of internalised self-blame. Recommendations emphasise the inclusion of relevant social justice models for the context of South Africa in the training of counselling psychologists; and a pressing need to engage in micro-, meso- and macro-level advocacy to collaboratively debate the identity and scope of practice of the profession and the review of professional and ethical guidelines.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A social realist analysis of participation in academic professional development for the integration of digital technologies in higher education
- Authors: Mistri, Gitanjali Umesh
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Education, Higher -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa , Durban University of Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:20936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5510
- Description: The introduction of digital technologies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in keeping with higher education institutions globally, has had a significant impact on the learning environment at the institution. Despite this the anticipated demand for academic professional development (APD) did not materialise at DUT. Using Margaret Archer’s Realist Social Theory (1995) this single-institution case study offers a critical examination of cultural, structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain academic professional development (APD) for the integration of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at a higher education institution in South Africa. Archer’s (1995) morphogenetic approach enabled an investigation of the interface between the conditions encountered by the academics (at macro, meso and micro levels), in order to theorise about the material, ideational and agential conditions that obtained and which in turn influenced the decision to participate or not participate in the APD programmes. This longitudinal study from 2012 until 2016 traced the APD related changes following the decision to promote the implementation of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions as an institutional imperative. The theoretical framework allowed for an examination of the interpretation of the conditions experienced by academics, either as compatible or contradictory to their individual or collective concerns. It further provided an insight into their evaluation of the legitimacy and value of the APD programmes. The study examined the impact of the provision of resources for APD on the nature of the use of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at the site of the case study, the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. The analysis of academic reactions to the changes instituted at both the meso (institutional) and micro (academic professional development) levels revealed that the changes produced conditions that resulted in limited morphogenesis. In particular, it seems that the disruption brought about by the introduction of the technology imperative was accompanied by conditions resulting in further diversification of academic capacities at the institution. This study advances concrete propositions about the conditions that influenced the APD related responses of the academics to the institutionalisation of e-Learning. The research adds to knowledge through insights into the process theory approach to causation, which recognises that structures, mechanisms and events produce unique effects and that the same mechanisms at times produce different events. This study argues that understanding what underlies a certain course of events may enable informed interventions to create better correspondences between APD and the introduction of digital technologies in higher education. Further, this study has generated insights into the importance of taking into consideration the discipline-related knowledge structures in the design and provision of academic development programmes. It is proposed that the incorporation of organising principles of knowledge practices within the academic professional development programme design would earn value and legitimacy for the programme, and promote participation by academics in digital technology-related academic professional development. In summary, the research contributes to an understanding of why it has been that, even with many first order barriers – such as digital access and infrastructural limitations – reduced, the uptake of digital technologies and participation in related academic professional development programmes by academics in higher education has yet to initiate a move beyond doing what is familiar in a digitally-mediated learning environment.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A sociological analysis of Rhodes University Students previously diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and prescribed psychostimulant medications
- Authors: Brasher, Chelsea Marilyn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) , Mental illness -- Public opinion , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Treatment , Symbolic interactionism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7610 , vital:21278
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, bringing into account the labelling theory, the stigmas attached upon mental health issues and the medicalization approach, this study sought to document and analyze the viewpoints that previously diagnosed Rhodes University students hold towards the ADHD label and the subsequent usage of psychostimulant medications. Seven respondents were involved in an in-depth interviewing process. Out of the seven respondents chosen, five of the respondents were diagnosed in their primary school years, whereas the other two respondents were diagnosed in their late teenage years or early adult years. These respondents were included to enlighten and support the narrative of the five respondents diagnosed in their youth. The findings varied, with some of the respondents feeling negatively affected by having the ADHD label attached to them, and others, positively affected by it. The findings were also diverse in terms of how the respondents experienced stimulant usage, with some believing that the benefits of usage outweigh the costs, and others, the opposite. At a general level, it was discovered that the respondents were not affected by the ADHD label in terms of their interactions with others in primary school. It was only as they got older did some become fearful of the stigma attached to the ADHD label, and that of medication.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A sociological analysis of the lives and livelihoods of child support grant caregivers in Queenstown, South Africa
- Authors: Ntantiso, Ziyanda
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7925 , vital:21325
- Description: The post-apartheid state in South Africa has initiated and implemented a large-scale social assistance programme in the form of social grants, including the child support grant. The grant system is meant to provide recipients, who comprise mainly people from poor black households, with the capacity to reduce levels of poverty in their households. The grant with the largest number of recipients is the child support grant, and it is given to the caregiver of a child eligible to receive the grant. Though the value of the monthly grant is minimal, the prevailing literature suggests that it does contribute in some way to enhancing the welfare of the recipients. This thesis focuses on child support grant recipients in the town of Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, and particularly those recipients for whom the grant is the crucial source of income. The main objective of the thesis is to understand and analyse the lives and livelihoods of child support grant recipients (all women) in Queenstown, South Africa. In this regard, the vast majority of caregivers of grant children are women and they often rely exclusively on the grant in taking care of themselves and the children. The thesis does not seek to determine any direct causal relationship between the child grant and poverty reduction, as much of the existing literature seeks to do. It focuses instead on the lives of the grant recipients, including the many challenges they face, as well as how they use the grant to pursue livelihoods in a manner which may at least inhibit the prospects of entering into deeper levels of poverty. The thesis demonstrates that, despite their deprived conditions of material existence, the female caregivers in Queenstown display significant agency in caring for their grant children.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A spiritual intelligence model for operational humanitarian leadership development in conflict-affected areas
- Authors: Els, Deon André
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Development leadership Conflict management , Peace-building Spiritual life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15534 , vital:28267
- Description: The scale and cadence of crises that demand international humanitarian response are on the rise and pose increasingly hostile and complex challenges to operational humanitarian leaders. The international responses to humanitarian crises since 2011 recognised the need for successful humanitarian leadership development that emphasises the importance of ethical and effective leadership. The under-achievement of operational humanitarian leaders in conflict-affected areas has long been a chief concern amongst humanitarian organisations and leadership scholars. Several approaches to the development of operational humanitarian leaders have been presented as possible solutions such as establishing new financing mechanisms; improving technical abilities, academic knowledge, simulation training, conflict management skills; conflict prevention training; and enhancing the capacity for collaborative networks. Despite various efforts, it is reported that ineffective and incompetent leadership is still a major constraint on the success and effectiveness of operational humanitarian response in conflict-affected areas. This research effort attempted to contribute to improving operational humanitarian leadership by considering a “human or people-centred approach”. The primary objective was to identify the factors that influence the successful development of the spiritual intelligence (SQ) of humanitarian leaders working in conflict-affected areas. The primary objective was, therefore, to improve the abilities and skills of humanitarian leaders by validating and analysing factors that should contribute to the development of spiritually intelligent leaders and, subsequently, improve humanitarian leadership performance. There is growing consensus that values, ethical behaviour, self-awareness, motivation, compassion, humility, empathy, co-ordination and the empowerment of others have a significant impact on the effectiveness of operational humanitarian leadership which emphasises the need for human or people-centred approaches in developing humanitarian leaders. The striking similarities between abilities pertaining to effective, operational, humanitarian leadership and the capabilities of a spiritually intelligent individual suggested an opportunity to investigate the development of a spiritual intelligence model for humanitarian leaders. The frequency, duration and intensity of humanitarian crises between 2004 and 2016 further emphasised the urgent need for operational leaders to develop and apply abilities based on spiritual intelligence in the humanitarian sector. Some scholars argue that the development of spiritually intelligent leaders should play an instrumental role in successfully responding to global crises.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A strategic framework for managing and implementation of the intergovernmental relations policy in selected Eastern Cape municipalities
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A stratigraphic, petrographic and geochemical study of the gamagara formation at the maremane dome, Northern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Cousins, David Patrick
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4679 , vital:20711
- Description: Between 80 and 90 percent of the potential iron ore reserves in the Griqualand West basin in the Northern Cape province of South Africa is situated in the Asbesheuwels Iron-formation immediately below an unconformity that separates it from the Gamagara Formation of the Olifantshoek Supergroup. This extensive regional unconformity marks a lengthy period of non-deposition and erosion which preceded the deposition of the Gamagara Formation. Due to the nature of the intimate relationship between the shales and iron ore body, specifically on the Maremane dome, new insights into the Gamagara Formation were required. The thesis provides a renewed stratigraphic, petrographic and geochemical study on the Gamagara Formation and relates it to previous studies done on the lateral correlative Mapedi Formation, some 70 km north of the Maremane dome. The use of 10 newly available drill-cores selected from across the Maremane Dome allows for regional correlations to be made in a study which employs petrographic/mineralogical investigations using transmitted/reflected light microscopy, XRD and EPMA, complimented by traditional whole-rock geochemical analysis of majors, traces, rare earth elements and Nd isotopes. At the base of the Gamagara lie conglomerates representing an alluvial fan deposit, overlying this, shale and quartzite successions represent progradational delta lobes. The deltas are interpreted to be tide- dominated as indicated by a combination of features including: microbial mat growth, intertidal deposition in the delta top, sand bars and flaser laminations in the upward coarsening quartzite units of the delta front. Transgression is indicated by periodic transgressive lag deposits. A variety of sedimentary structures and textural features are described that can be interpreted as the results of microbial mat colonization on the sediment surface. Although in none of the described features can it irrefutably be proven that they are microbial mat deposits, the observed features are consistent with such an interpretation and should be considered indicators of possible microbial mat presence in the Gamagara Formation. Hydrothermal modifications are identified in various units of the Gamagara Formation and seem to occur as separate events. Basal white shales show mobility of Al and slight HFSE enrichments, while overlying red shales record HFSE, K and Fe enrichments. K-metasomatism has been known to occur in the underlying paleoweathering profile of the Transvaal Supergroup (Ongeluk lavas) a unit which is interpreted as the most likely provenance for the mid-to-upper shale lithofacies of the Gamagara Formation. Highly alkaline F-bearing brines had the ability to mobilize titania and fluorapatite, reset Nd isotope systematics and ultimately enriched HFSE concentrations in the red shales of the Gamagara Formation. As the same enrichment is evident in the Mapedi Formation, the event possibly represents unconformity related fluid flow on a regional scale (~140 km). Nd-isotopes record an isotopic disturbance concurrent with the HFSE enrichment and Tdm model ages suggest disruption (and enrichment) occurred between 1.73 and 1.86 Ga. Following this, Fe-addition occurred by epigenetic mechanisms similar to those of MVT-type deposits. Although gaps in the current understanding of the modifications of the Gamagara Formation exist, such events may have far reaching implications for the underlying iron ore bodies and the possibility arises that the genesis and/or epigenetic modification of the ore bodies of the Transvaal Supergroup may be casually linked to the same fluid-migration event/s.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A study of mathematics teacher identity as shaped through participation in a mathematics teacher professional development programme
- Authors: Kangela, Nyameka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP) (Rhodes University) , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology , Mathematics teachers -- Psychology -- Case studies , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7832 , vital:21305
- Description: There is an abundance of evidence suggesting that all is not well in mathematics education in South Africa. It is also common cause that the role of mathematics teachers is central to finding sustainable solutions to what is commonly referred to as a mathematics crisis. The purpose of this study is to explore the process of change in selected mathematics teachers’ identities as they participated in a mathematics teacher Professional Development Programme (PDP) at Rhodes University. The core of the PDP was a teacher enrichment programme called the Mathematics Teacher Enrichment Programme (MTEP), under the aegis of the First Rand Foundation (FRF) Mathematics Education Chair at Rhodes University. MTEP foregrounded and emphasized the teaching of mathematics for conceptual understanding. The research approach was qualitative, and it used elements of the methods associated with educational ethnography. The data was collected from five teachers from five different schools that participated in the FRF Maths Chair project. I used Wenger’s (1998) three modes of belonging to analyse the identities of the five participants. This was achieved through analysing the teachers’ practice with a particular focus on teaching for conceptual understanding. I used Sfard & Prusak’s (2005) framework to analyse the participants’ journey from an actual to a designated identity through their participation in MTEP. The participants’ changing sense of belonging to MTEP was a key element in transforming their practice to teaching for conceptual understanding. I assumed the role of a participant observer during MTEP sessions, and of an outside observer as a researcher.The study found that the selected teachers’ participation in the MTEP community of practice strongly encouraged them to accumulate shared histories of learning and teaching. The study found that as participating teachers adopted and grew into their designated identity they partially embraced and implemented a conceptual teaching approach. The gap between their actual and their designated identity was partly closed as they sought to align their teaching with MTEP’s goal of conceptual teaching.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A study of procurement and administration in the Department of Health in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Xatula, Meyisi Sigqibo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Management -- Procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13458 , vital:27205
- Description: The study investigated issues concerning procurement and administration in the Department of Health (DoH) in the Eastern Cape and has further investigated the role of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Act 1 of 1999 in the department. That included issues associated with the administration and procurement in relation to service providers from the private sector. The DoH in the Eastern Cape Province delivers:“ … a quality health service to the people of the Eastern Cape Province promoting a better life for all and ensures accessible, comprehensive, and integrated services in the province, emphasising the primary health care approach, as well as utilising and developing all resources to enable present and future generations to enjoy good health and quality of life” (Department of Health [DoH], Eastern Cape, Departmental Annual Performance Plan, 2013:3). Various researchers have investigated the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999 and have identified gaps and made recommendations regarding the identified gaps. The study is based on the following reports from various authors: According to Pillay (2013), since 1994 every public sector department has lost approximately R385 billion to fraud, corruption and maladministration. Government employees have accepted kickbacks in exchange for rigging tenders, including focusing on high levels of corruption (Albert, 2011:1). The fraud and corruption in the Eastern Cape DoH, which involves nepotism, corruption and fraud amounting to a million rand in the audit report of 2013, have prompted calls by the opposition for interventions (PricewaterhouseCoopers [PWC], 2013:9). Departmental Annual Performance Plan for 2013/2014. Impact of accountability and ethics on public service delivery: a South African perspective which involves accountability stating that all government departments have to be efficient to ensure value for public funds including the qualitative and value-laden expectations of the society (Raga & Taylor, 2008:1). EC (2010:9), Audit Report: Health Department, Eastern Cape. King III Report (2009) – Corporate Governance. The study has built on previous research conducted by other researchers who have conducted research on the issue of the implementation of the Public Finance Management Act 1 (PFM Act 1) of 1999, and had identify further gaps not previously identified by other researchers or in the audits. In addition, this study aims to also identify shortcomings that have been described in the recent audits 2013/2014 of the DoH, Eastern Cape. Together with the new gaps identified in the PFM Act 1 of 1999, the researcher aims to make a number of recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the implementation of the PFM Act 1 of 1999. The PFM Act 1 of 1999 was promulgated by the South African government in 1999. The Act promotes the objective of good financial management in order to maximise service delivery through effective and efficient use of available limited resources as well as credible interaction with private sector service providers. A key objective of this Act is to put in place a more effective financial accountability system over public entities. The objectives of the Act are to: Modernise the system of financial management, Enable public sector managers to manage, while at the same time being accountable, Ensure timely provision of quality information, To eliminate waste and corruption in the use of public assets.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A study of the South African national anthem as a tool for division or unification
- Authors: Gallant, Bernette Denolia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cultural fusion -- South Africa Multiculturalism -- South Africa , Politics and culture -- South Africa National songs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15138 , vital:28143
- Description: South Africa is a nation that was born from a struggle that can be said to have turned racial divisions and discrimination into a diversity of heritages. Thus, contemporary South Africa has become a country recreated in such a way that its people are able to embrace diversity freely. This research study aimed to provide insights into South Africa’s diversity in culture and linguistics that were moulded into a single song, the South African National Anthem. The research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Staff and Students) responses to the representation of the South African National Anthem based on two specific performances. The research study aimed to determine how the two online videos affected the perceptions of NMMU Staff and Students of the South African National Anthem and South Africa as a brand. The research study aimed to determine how the two performances of the South African National Anthem under study were received by Staff and Students at NMMU. The study also aimed to highlight the similarities and differences in the sample’s responses, based on this reception. The selected YouTube videos under study are: SA anthem destroyed URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beg0-kMN3fM Ard Matthews ruins the SA national anthem URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu6IG0Wx19w. An electronic questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions was used to draw a conclusion regarding the selected sample’s perceptions of the South African National Anthem. Following the questionnaire results, a rhetoric analysis of the sample’s questionnaire responses was conducted. This text analysis and interpretation was conducted to gain insight into themes that were labelled based on the questionnaire responses, thus affecting perceptions of the sample and determining whether the South African National Anthem was perceived as a tool for division or unification.
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- Date Issued: 2017