Investigating teaching strategies used by teachers to foster environmental learning in the Namibian Life Science curriculum
- Authors: Hoabes, Rosina
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching -- Namibia Education -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Effective teaching -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia Environmental education -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003472
- Description: This study was carried out to investigate the strategies used by teachers to foster environmental learning in the Namibian Life Science curriculum in four schools in Swakopmund, Erongo Education Region. This study is a qualitative case study. I used semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis as instruments to collect data. Two schools were selected to participate in the case study. Research participants included four teachers (two teachers from each school) of which two teachers are teaching at each school. The study was contextualised through a review of policy changes in Namibian education, which focus on learner-centred education. The study identified six strategies used by teachers to foster environmental learning in the Life Sciences curriculum. These are planning; working with information; practical, excursions and clubs; involving the learners; using visual aids and teaching materials; and choosing topics with a local focus. Through a consideration of the different strategies used by teachers, in relation to the learner-centred nature of the educational reform project in Namibia the study provides insight into the way in which teachers view learner-centred education. The study also illuminates how strategies used by teachers reflect learner-centred education principles and it outlines a number of tensions emerging in the fostering of environmental learning in learner-centred ways. The study identifies further support required by teachers, and makes recommendations which will further enhance the strategies used by teachers to foster the environmental learning focus in Life Sciences, and also enhance learner-centred teaching in Life Science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Hoabes, Rosina
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching -- Namibia Education -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Effective teaching -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia Environmental education -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003472
- Description: This study was carried out to investigate the strategies used by teachers to foster environmental learning in the Namibian Life Science curriculum in four schools in Swakopmund, Erongo Education Region. This study is a qualitative case study. I used semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis as instruments to collect data. Two schools were selected to participate in the case study. Research participants included four teachers (two teachers from each school) of which two teachers are teaching at each school. The study was contextualised through a review of policy changes in Namibian education, which focus on learner-centred education. The study identified six strategies used by teachers to foster environmental learning in the Life Sciences curriculum. These are planning; working with information; practical, excursions and clubs; involving the learners; using visual aids and teaching materials; and choosing topics with a local focus. Through a consideration of the different strategies used by teachers, in relation to the learner-centred nature of the educational reform project in Namibia the study provides insight into the way in which teachers view learner-centred education. The study also illuminates how strategies used by teachers reflect learner-centred education principles and it outlines a number of tensions emerging in the fostering of environmental learning in learner-centred ways. The study identifies further support required by teachers, and makes recommendations which will further enhance the strategies used by teachers to foster the environmental learning focus in Life Sciences, and also enhance learner-centred teaching in Life Science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The development of turnaround strategies for the Calitzdorp Spa Tourism resort
- Authors: Holtzhausen, Beatrix
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Corporate turnarounds -- Management , Health resorts -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/225 , Corporate turnarounds -- Management , Health resorts -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Strategic planning
- Description: The objective of this study was to develop turnaround strategies for the Calitzdorp Spa Tourism Resort (herein after referred to as Calitzdorp Spa) to stop the performance decline and put it back on the road of recovery again. The development of turnaround strategies are dependent on establishing the cause of the performance decline and to enable management to plan effective and optimal strategies for the tourism resort focused on the recovery response. An analysis of various sources on strategic management models were undertaken to find a theoretical framework for the development of a strategic management model that could be applied to a tourism resort. The following model for the strategic management of a tourism resort was consequently developed and consists of the following main components: • Mission, objectives and stakeholders; • Strategic position; • Strategic choice; and • Strategic implementation. A second model for the Turnaround Process of a tourism resort was proposed to assist management in guiding the resort to recovery, consisting of two main phases, namely: • Turnaround situation; and the • Turnaround response. The research methodology followed included: • a literature survey to define the important concepts of tourism, resorts, strategic management and turnaround strategies; • a questionnaire survey to determine customer satisfaction at the Calitzdorp Spa; • telephone interviews to determine the marketing and positioning strategies of the Calitzdorp Spa; and • a focus group discussion session to determine the current situation at the resort and to plan future management strategies of the Calitzdorp Spa. Specific conclusions were made and specific actions recommended based on the results obtained.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Holtzhausen, Beatrix
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Corporate turnarounds -- Management , Health resorts -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/225 , Corporate turnarounds -- Management , Health resorts -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Strategic planning
- Description: The objective of this study was to develop turnaround strategies for the Calitzdorp Spa Tourism Resort (herein after referred to as Calitzdorp Spa) to stop the performance decline and put it back on the road of recovery again. The development of turnaround strategies are dependent on establishing the cause of the performance decline and to enable management to plan effective and optimal strategies for the tourism resort focused on the recovery response. An analysis of various sources on strategic management models were undertaken to find a theoretical framework for the development of a strategic management model that could be applied to a tourism resort. The following model for the strategic management of a tourism resort was consequently developed and consists of the following main components: • Mission, objectives and stakeholders; • Strategic position; • Strategic choice; and • Strategic implementation. A second model for the Turnaround Process of a tourism resort was proposed to assist management in guiding the resort to recovery, consisting of two main phases, namely: • Turnaround situation; and the • Turnaround response. The research methodology followed included: • a literature survey to define the important concepts of tourism, resorts, strategic management and turnaround strategies; • a questionnaire survey to determine customer satisfaction at the Calitzdorp Spa; • telephone interviews to determine the marketing and positioning strategies of the Calitzdorp Spa; and • a focus group discussion session to determine the current situation at the resort and to plan future management strategies of the Calitzdorp Spa. Specific conclusions were made and specific actions recommended based on the results obtained.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Research portfolio
- Authors: Hoveka, E P
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1733 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003616
- Description: The purpose of this study is to look at English Second Language IGCSE Core Curriculum for Grades 11 and 12. The criteria that has been identified and selected for analysis as stipulated by the Ministry of Basic Education and Culture Language policy Document of 1996 reads as follows: The aim of teaching English as a language should be to enable the learners to increase their participation in the learning processes. This aim was selected as the criteria for investigation because the notion of active participation by the learners in the teaching and learning process places the learners in a different perspective. In other words, the learners are to be seen as possessors of knowledge rather than ‘empty vessels’ as depicted by the behaviourist approach (Van Harmelen 1999). This idea of a learner-centred approach as embedded in Social Constructivism approach is the foundation on which the Namibian Education Reform Process is based. The justification for selecting these particular criteria for close inspection in the English Second Language Curriculum was sparked by the professional attachment of the researcher into teaching English Second Language to Grades 11 and 12 at the Herman Gmeiner Technical School in Swakopmund. The researcher is also serving as a subject head for this particular discipline. Furthermore, evaluating and analyzing the English Second Language curriculum on this particular objective, the researcher hopes to uncover or come to an understanding of how our educational practices have moved from what was practiced under the behavioural approach and to discover the needs of teachers in terms of implementing the new curriculum in their daily practices as educators. Having the criteria stated, the study will focus on how the data was collected and the type of methodology used to gather this information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Hoveka, E P
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1733 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003616
- Description: The purpose of this study is to look at English Second Language IGCSE Core Curriculum for Grades 11 and 12. The criteria that has been identified and selected for analysis as stipulated by the Ministry of Basic Education and Culture Language policy Document of 1996 reads as follows: The aim of teaching English as a language should be to enable the learners to increase their participation in the learning processes. This aim was selected as the criteria for investigation because the notion of active participation by the learners in the teaching and learning process places the learners in a different perspective. In other words, the learners are to be seen as possessors of knowledge rather than ‘empty vessels’ as depicted by the behaviourist approach (Van Harmelen 1999). This idea of a learner-centred approach as embedded in Social Constructivism approach is the foundation on which the Namibian Education Reform Process is based. The justification for selecting these particular criteria for close inspection in the English Second Language Curriculum was sparked by the professional attachment of the researcher into teaching English Second Language to Grades 11 and 12 at the Herman Gmeiner Technical School in Swakopmund. The researcher is also serving as a subject head for this particular discipline. Furthermore, evaluating and analyzing the English Second Language curriculum on this particular objective, the researcher hopes to uncover or come to an understanding of how our educational practices have moved from what was practiced under the behavioural approach and to discover the needs of teachers in terms of implementing the new curriculum in their daily practices as educators. Having the criteria stated, the study will focus on how the data was collected and the type of methodology used to gather this information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An assessment of communication strategies utilised at Guangzhou Instititute of Resources Separation Sciences (GIRSS)
- Authors: Huang, Lin
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/203 , Business communication , Communication in management
- Description: The main problem of this study was to assess the communication strategies used by GIRSS to achieve organisational goals. To address this problem, a theoretical study was undertaken to identify the communication strategies used in organisations. The theoretical guidelines for effective communication were integrated into a communication model, which consisted of the following components: · The establishment of organisational communication structures; · The selection of appropriate communication media; IV · The management of communication barriers; and · Addressing the challenges in organisational communication. Based on the model, a survey questionnaire was developed to assess the extent to which GIRSS made use of these strategies. The questionnaire was administered to both managers and non-managers in the organisation. Due to the distance between South Africa and China, the questionnaire was administered via e-mail. The empirical results revealed that some of the theoretical guidelines were followed, but there was room for improvement in terms of communication strategies used at GIRSS. Specifically it was found that many barriers existed as a result of status and other differences, which influenced communication in the organisation. Communication in organisations is very important as it contributes to goal attainment, satisfaction, cooperation and problem-solving. Communication is a skill that can be learned, and managers as well as employees should consider the results of the study to initiate changes to the communication strategies used in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Huang, Lin
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/203 , Business communication , Communication in management
- Description: The main problem of this study was to assess the communication strategies used by GIRSS to achieve organisational goals. To address this problem, a theoretical study was undertaken to identify the communication strategies used in organisations. The theoretical guidelines for effective communication were integrated into a communication model, which consisted of the following components: · The establishment of organisational communication structures; · The selection of appropriate communication media; IV · The management of communication barriers; and · Addressing the challenges in organisational communication. Based on the model, a survey questionnaire was developed to assess the extent to which GIRSS made use of these strategies. The questionnaire was administered to both managers and non-managers in the organisation. Due to the distance between South Africa and China, the questionnaire was administered via e-mail. The empirical results revealed that some of the theoretical guidelines were followed, but there was room for improvement in terms of communication strategies used at GIRSS. Specifically it was found that many barriers existed as a result of status and other differences, which influenced communication in the organisation. Communication in organisations is very important as it contributes to goal attainment, satisfaction, cooperation and problem-solving. Communication is a skill that can be learned, and managers as well as employees should consider the results of the study to initiate changes to the communication strategies used in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Three decades of hydrological modelling research in South Africa
- Authors: Hughes, Denis A
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:7072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009526
- Description: This paper presents a review of the research undertaken in the field of hydrological modelling over roughly the last three decades, concentrating primarily on South African work in an international context. The focus is on deterministic, rainfall-runoff models and addresses issues related to model design as well as to the application of models in practice. I provide a brief description of what hydrological models are and what they are used for and discuss also the following issues: • Developments in understanding hydrological process and the extent to which these have filtered down into models. • Model calibration and parameter estimation. • Trends in data availability and how these have affected model development. • Trends in computer technology and their impacts on model development. I suggest that there have been substantial developments in the science and practice of hydrological modelling, but that there remain many problems that need to be addressed to improve the ability of models to contribute to the solution of problems of water resource management. Southern African scientists have contributed to the body of knowledge on hydrological modelling, despite the limited resources available compared to resources elsewhere. Internationally, the focus has not always been on the practical issues of model application and has commonly tended towards the more theoretical and mathematical issues of model calibration. This is not a trend that has found much favour in southern Africa (particularly amongst research funding agencies), where there are many problems of water resource management that have the potential to be resolved with existing models, applied in an appropriate way. The paper concludes by suggesting that further research needs to focus on the integration of the best in international developments with the tried and tested models that have been developed locally. The context of this research should be the search for more reliable estimations of water resource availability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Hughes, Denis A
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:7072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009526
- Description: This paper presents a review of the research undertaken in the field of hydrological modelling over roughly the last three decades, concentrating primarily on South African work in an international context. The focus is on deterministic, rainfall-runoff models and addresses issues related to model design as well as to the application of models in practice. I provide a brief description of what hydrological models are and what they are used for and discuss also the following issues: • Developments in understanding hydrological process and the extent to which these have filtered down into models. • Model calibration and parameter estimation. • Trends in data availability and how these have affected model development. • Trends in computer technology and their impacts on model development. I suggest that there have been substantial developments in the science and practice of hydrological modelling, but that there remain many problems that need to be addressed to improve the ability of models to contribute to the solution of problems of water resource management. Southern African scientists have contributed to the body of knowledge on hydrological modelling, despite the limited resources available compared to resources elsewhere. Internationally, the focus has not always been on the practical issues of model application and has commonly tended towards the more theoretical and mathematical issues of model calibration. This is not a trend that has found much favour in southern Africa (particularly amongst research funding agencies), where there are many problems of water resource management that have the potential to be resolved with existing models, applied in an appropriate way. The paper concludes by suggesting that further research needs to focus on the integration of the best in international developments with the tried and tested models that have been developed locally. The context of this research should be the search for more reliable estimations of water resource availability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Journeys of the learning soul: Plato to Descartes
- Authors: Hugo, Wayne
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education -- Philosophy Education -- History Education, Ancient Education, Greek
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1884 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005917
- Description: This thesis aims to build up a picture of what it has meant for us within the western canon to educate a human being through the depths and heights of existence. It uses narrative accounts of educational journeys from ancient, medieval and early modern sources to develop an integral picture of the spectrum of education along with the techniques and fore-structures needed to guide a student through the various stages and encounters. Key metaphors, journeys and relationships - Diotirna's ladder of beauty, Plato's cave, Philo's Abraham and Sarah, Origen's bride and Bridegroom, Plotinus' journey of the alone to the Alone, Augustine's Confessions, the tragic love of Abelard and Heloise, Dante's encounters in the infernal, purgatorial and paradisical realms of human experience, Shakespeare's great playing within the same realm, and Descartes' doubting genius provide a rich ensemble, each resonating with the next, opening out intellectual, affective, volitional, and imaginative paths through the full terrain of human existence. This multidimensional approach points towards a flexible and insightful pedagogics that works with the enormous variety and capacity of human learning rather than heavy-handedly insisting on one path, or, even worse, not recognizing and dealing with specific areas of human living that occur in the upper and lower reaches of our educational endeavours. Phenomenological, Hermeneutic and Integral methods suggested by Heidegger and Wilber amongst others were used to inform the process of research. The results of this thesis are not contained in its reconunendations but in the effects of its reading. It is itself a tool that embodies and encourages the principles of an educational tradition that has existed within the history of western learning, not seeking a return to ancient or medieval ways but to provide a backlight that assists current initiatives working with the full range of human potential.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Hugo, Wayne
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education -- Philosophy Education -- History Education, Ancient Education, Greek
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1884 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005917
- Description: This thesis aims to build up a picture of what it has meant for us within the western canon to educate a human being through the depths and heights of existence. It uses narrative accounts of educational journeys from ancient, medieval and early modern sources to develop an integral picture of the spectrum of education along with the techniques and fore-structures needed to guide a student through the various stages and encounters. Key metaphors, journeys and relationships - Diotirna's ladder of beauty, Plato's cave, Philo's Abraham and Sarah, Origen's bride and Bridegroom, Plotinus' journey of the alone to the Alone, Augustine's Confessions, the tragic love of Abelard and Heloise, Dante's encounters in the infernal, purgatorial and paradisical realms of human experience, Shakespeare's great playing within the same realm, and Descartes' doubting genius provide a rich ensemble, each resonating with the next, opening out intellectual, affective, volitional, and imaginative paths through the full terrain of human existence. This multidimensional approach points towards a flexible and insightful pedagogics that works with the enormous variety and capacity of human learning rather than heavy-handedly insisting on one path, or, even worse, not recognizing and dealing with specific areas of human living that occur in the upper and lower reaches of our educational endeavours. Phenomenological, Hermeneutic and Integral methods suggested by Heidegger and Wilber amongst others were used to inform the process of research. The results of this thesis are not contained in its reconunendations but in the effects of its reading. It is itself a tool that embodies and encourages the principles of an educational tradition that has existed within the history of western learning, not seeking a return to ancient or medieval ways but to provide a backlight that assists current initiatives working with the full range of human potential.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A phenological and bioclimatic analysis of honey yield in South Africa
- Authors: Illgner, Peter Mark
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Bee culture -- South Africa -- Statistics Honeybee -- South Africa Bee culture -- South Africa -- Management Honey plants -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007153
- Description: This study has investigated the interaction between honeybees and their forage plants and the impact of selected climatic variables on honey production in South Africa. Twenty-seven scale-hive records from 25 localities have been used as a measure of colony honey reserves. At least 944 plant species are visited by honeybees in South Africa for their nectar and/or pollen, with more than half providing both rewards. The entire honeybee flora encompasses 532 genera and 137 families. The flowering phenologies of the different reward categories of the indigenous forage plants are all significantly and positively correlated at the 0.05 level. Similarly, species offering both rewards are significantly and positively correlated with the flowering phenology of the null flora. The same results were obtained for correlations between the different reward categories of the exotic forage plants in South Africa. Of the 30 species pairs which fulfilled the criteria for selection, 23 occurred in sympatry, 5 in allopatry and 2 in possible parapatry. There is evidence for both competition and facilitation within different indigenous species pairs. The lack of geographical correlation in the intra-annual variation in honey stores and the near absence of any statistically significant (p < 0.05) honey related intra-annual intracolonial correlations may indicate that the former is more important than the latter for the determination of the level of honey reserves within a colony. Only one statistically significant correlation was found between either scale-hive record from the University of Pretoria Experimental Farm and any of the selected climatic variables. A one month lag period and/or possible seasonal effects were detected for each variable, with the exception of the duration of sunshine, in the autocorrelation analyses. A possible 12 month seasonal period was also identified in the single series fourier analyses for a number of variables. Similarly, 12 months was also the most frequently recurring period in the crossspectral results for the one scale-hive record (H42). Any activities which have an impact on the landscape have the potential to affect honeybees and/or their forage plants. Honeybee crop or plant pollination may also enhance yields for commercial farmers and facilitate rural food security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Illgner, Peter Mark
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Bee culture -- South Africa -- Statistics Honeybee -- South Africa Bee culture -- South Africa -- Management Honey plants -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007153
- Description: This study has investigated the interaction between honeybees and their forage plants and the impact of selected climatic variables on honey production in South Africa. Twenty-seven scale-hive records from 25 localities have been used as a measure of colony honey reserves. At least 944 plant species are visited by honeybees in South Africa for their nectar and/or pollen, with more than half providing both rewards. The entire honeybee flora encompasses 532 genera and 137 families. The flowering phenologies of the different reward categories of the indigenous forage plants are all significantly and positively correlated at the 0.05 level. Similarly, species offering both rewards are significantly and positively correlated with the flowering phenology of the null flora. The same results were obtained for correlations between the different reward categories of the exotic forage plants in South Africa. Of the 30 species pairs which fulfilled the criteria for selection, 23 occurred in sympatry, 5 in allopatry and 2 in possible parapatry. There is evidence for both competition and facilitation within different indigenous species pairs. The lack of geographical correlation in the intra-annual variation in honey stores and the near absence of any statistically significant (p < 0.05) honey related intra-annual intracolonial correlations may indicate that the former is more important than the latter for the determination of the level of honey reserves within a colony. Only one statistically significant correlation was found between either scale-hive record from the University of Pretoria Experimental Farm and any of the selected climatic variables. A one month lag period and/or possible seasonal effects were detected for each variable, with the exception of the duration of sunshine, in the autocorrelation analyses. A possible 12 month seasonal period was also identified in the single series fourier analyses for a number of variables. Similarly, 12 months was also the most frequently recurring period in the crossspectral results for the one scale-hive record (H42). Any activities which have an impact on the landscape have the potential to affect honeybees and/or their forage plants. Honeybee crop or plant pollination may also enhance yields for commercial farmers and facilitate rural food security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The development of a business model for a non-profit organisation in Port Elizabeth : a case study
- Authors: Inman, Lydia Alice Annabel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/216 , Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Description: Non-profit organisations are a niche sector of the service industry, which is increasing worldwide. This entails more competition for funding and a need for such organisations to adopt a management approach that is more akin to business, in order that the organisation will operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Unlike business whose goal is to be profitable, the aim of non-profit organisations is to render a service to the community. Therefore, incorporating business principles into the management of the organisation is often in conflict with its aims. Furthermore, while the organisation’s donors want sound management, they want funding to be used for the recipients of the service and not for administration and salaries that help to ensure good governance. This study involved one such non-profit organisation that has been compelled to conform to management criteria as prescribed by the South African, Department of Social Development, in order to continue receiving the annual subsidies for salaries and running costs. This has meant various adjustments to the organisation’s operations including increased administration, the completion of an annual business plan and a change in emphasis to the service delivery. Through increased communication, the interviewees achieved greater consensus as to what business features were important for the effective management of the organisation. In addition, the development of a business model for a non-profit organisation was viewed as relevant, as it could assist in showing the stakeholders how the organisation operates. This would be particularly appropriate to its donors from business, who themselves use and understand such models and would see this development as a further move towards managing the organisation according to business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Inman, Lydia Alice Annabel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/216 , Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Description: Non-profit organisations are a niche sector of the service industry, which is increasing worldwide. This entails more competition for funding and a need for such organisations to adopt a management approach that is more akin to business, in order that the organisation will operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Unlike business whose goal is to be profitable, the aim of non-profit organisations is to render a service to the community. Therefore, incorporating business principles into the management of the organisation is often in conflict with its aims. Furthermore, while the organisation’s donors want sound management, they want funding to be used for the recipients of the service and not for administration and salaries that help to ensure good governance. This study involved one such non-profit organisation that has been compelled to conform to management criteria as prescribed by the South African, Department of Social Development, in order to continue receiving the annual subsidies for salaries and running costs. This has meant various adjustments to the organisation’s operations including increased administration, the completion of an annual business plan and a change in emphasis to the service delivery. Through increased communication, the interviewees achieved greater consensus as to what business features were important for the effective management of the organisation. In addition, the development of a business model for a non-profit organisation was viewed as relevant, as it could assist in showing the stakeholders how the organisation operates. This would be particularly appropriate to its donors from business, who themselves use and understand such models and would see this development as a further move towards managing the organisation according to business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An investigation into the extended use of mobile phone technology in the cellular industry in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Inman, Michael Christopher
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Cell phone services industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Cell phones , Cell phone systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10923 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/247 , Cell phone services industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Cell phones , Cell phone systems
- Description: While experiencing exponential growth worldwide, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are key factors in business today. The ubiquitous nature of the mobile phone in South Africa and the use of wireless technologies facilitate business in areas where current fixed infrastructure is limited or non-existent, thereby aiding in the development of rural areas. This descriptive study determines what factors will extend the use of mobile phone technology in business. The literature indicates business advantage can be gained from incorporating technology into a strategic framework but in so doing must consider the complexities of the technology and its lifecycle. Currently, e-mail and Internet access would be the most likely applications of data use via Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). As a technology-based study the methodology used e-mail to deliver a survey targeting staff from the three cellular network operators in Port Elizabeth. The mobile industry and Port Elizabeth were both considered good indicators of technology use and the progression of infrastructure throughout South Africa. The findings indicate that although most mobile phones have the features required by users, the current use of associated data applications is low. Email is the most appropriate application and expected to be significant in 2006. The technology is of strategic importance and can be applied to make idle time productive. Successful use depends on the removal of barriers. In the case of e-mail and Internet access; the most significant of these is the complexity of the initial set-up. Despite the complexity of technology evolution and the challenges of effective business application, substantial gains can be still be realised. Currently, technology is best deployed to meet specialised needs. The expected introduction of third generation technologies herald’s higher data transfer rates, providing the opportunity for more generalised application in business in the immediate future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Inman, Michael Christopher
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Cell phone services industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Cell phones , Cell phone systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10923 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/247 , Cell phone services industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Cell phones , Cell phone systems
- Description: While experiencing exponential growth worldwide, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are key factors in business today. The ubiquitous nature of the mobile phone in South Africa and the use of wireless technologies facilitate business in areas where current fixed infrastructure is limited or non-existent, thereby aiding in the development of rural areas. This descriptive study determines what factors will extend the use of mobile phone technology in business. The literature indicates business advantage can be gained from incorporating technology into a strategic framework but in so doing must consider the complexities of the technology and its lifecycle. Currently, e-mail and Internet access would be the most likely applications of data use via Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). As a technology-based study the methodology used e-mail to deliver a survey targeting staff from the three cellular network operators in Port Elizabeth. The mobile industry and Port Elizabeth were both considered good indicators of technology use and the progression of infrastructure throughout South Africa. The findings indicate that although most mobile phones have the features required by users, the current use of associated data applications is low. Email is the most appropriate application and expected to be significant in 2006. The technology is of strategic importance and can be applied to make idle time productive. Successful use depends on the removal of barriers. In the case of e-mail and Internet access; the most significant of these is the complexity of the initial set-up. Despite the complexity of technology evolution and the challenges of effective business application, substantial gains can be still be realised. Currently, technology is best deployed to meet specialised needs. The expected introduction of third generation technologies herald’s higher data transfer rates, providing the opportunity for more generalised application in business in the immediate future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Study South Africa
- International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA), Van Essche, Alexandra
- Authors: International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) , Van Essche, Alexandra
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and globalization -- South Africa Student mobility -- Africa International education -- South Africa Education, Higher -- International cooperation , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Technical Institutes -- South Africa , Vocational guidance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/65333 , vital:28746 , ISBN 0620247290
- Description: [Message from the President of IEASA, Dr Roshen Kishun]: The fourth edition of Study South Africa; Guide to South African Tertiary Education coincides with a momentous event in the history of South Africa. It is the 10th anniversary of the democracy after the 1994 elections that ended apartheid. It is time to celebrate the achievements, the development strides, and the reintegration of South Africa into the world community. The International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) welcomes the new Minister of Education, Ms Naledi Pandor, elected to the Cabinet after the April 2004 elections. We wish her well in her new and demanding portfolio. We are confident that the Minister will support the tertiary education sector to develop linkages between international education, skilled migration and the transition to knowledge economies. While we believe that a free and democratic country may be the most powerful attraction for international students wishing to study in South Africa there are other reasons. South Africa is rated as a technological powerhouse on the African continent. Comparatively South Africa’s educational infrastructure can be compared with the best in the world. Its research sector is by far the strongest in Africa. The country has adopted English as one of its official languages and it is the main medium of instruction in the tertiary education sector. A significant factor which makes South African qualifications attractive is the relatively lower cost of study. Study in South Africa offers the best of both worlds to international students, combining the experience of living in Africa with the opportunity to obtain quality education at a fraction of the cost. In the ten years since 1994, the opening-up of the tertiary education sector in South Africa is evidenced by the dramatic increase of international students studying in the South African public education sector from about 13 000 to more than 47 000 in 2002. While the headcount numbers include distance education students, it is possible that South Africa is currently the leading host country for international students in Africa. An IDP report predicts that by 2025 almost eight million students will be educated trans-nationally. The growth in international student numbers presents South Africa with some exciting challenges in the global context. South Africa is expected to become one of the top nations in the world hosting international students in the next ten yean. Study South Africa is published in the middle of one of the most intense periods of change when the South African education system is being restructured to eliminate duplications created under the apartheid system. The number of public institutions is being reduced from 36 to 23 through mergers and incorporations. The binary divide that existed in the public higher education system pre- 2002, where there were 21 universities and 15 technikons is blurred by the creation of the universities of technology. In spite of the massive transformation, the South African higher education sector has much to offer in the form of quality education, advanced research facilities and internationally recognized qualifications. The information provided in this Guide introduces the individual institutions, their academic offerings, support services provided and other relevant details needed to make a choice of study destination Study South Africa is also a useful tool in the development of a strategy to market South African higher education into the competitive world of international education. The decision by IEASA to develop a marketing strategy is not only a reaction to global higher education pressures, but is also an acknowledgement of South Africa’s return to the global higher education community and in identified geographical areas. IEASA realised that past isolation can only be overturned by conscious new strategies. This 'marketing initiative’ meant that the presence of South Africa was highly visible at some of the leading forums dealing with international education in the world. Study South Africa is undertaken by IEASA in association with the South African Vice-Chancellors Association (SAUVCA) and the Committee of Technikon Principals (CTP). These organizations themselves are set to merge in the near future. We appreciate the support of the Council on Higher Education (CHE), the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), Unitech (Higher Education professional body for marketing, communication and development), and Professor T Mthembu. We are most grarefril to Karen MacGregor, our specialist writer, who compiled the excellent articles in this publication on achievements during the ten years of transformation. I wish to take this opportunity of thanking all those who made contributions for their support and all the tertiary education institutions in the public education sector for their participation. We are grateful to the Department of Foreign Affairs for the distribution of the Guide abroad and to members of the IEASA publications committee for their input. We appreciate the support of Artworks Publishing for working under pressure to meet publications deadline. Special thanks are due to Zandile Wanda for the work in coordinating the response from the tertiary education sector and to Alexandra van Essche for compiling and producing the Guide. Without their efforts it would not have been possible to publish the Guide. , 4th Edition
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) , Van Essche, Alexandra
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and globalization -- South Africa Student mobility -- Africa International education -- South Africa Education, Higher -- International cooperation , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Technical Institutes -- South Africa , Vocational guidance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/65333 , vital:28746 , ISBN 0620247290
- Description: [Message from the President of IEASA, Dr Roshen Kishun]: The fourth edition of Study South Africa; Guide to South African Tertiary Education coincides with a momentous event in the history of South Africa. It is the 10th anniversary of the democracy after the 1994 elections that ended apartheid. It is time to celebrate the achievements, the development strides, and the reintegration of South Africa into the world community. The International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) welcomes the new Minister of Education, Ms Naledi Pandor, elected to the Cabinet after the April 2004 elections. We wish her well in her new and demanding portfolio. We are confident that the Minister will support the tertiary education sector to develop linkages between international education, skilled migration and the transition to knowledge economies. While we believe that a free and democratic country may be the most powerful attraction for international students wishing to study in South Africa there are other reasons. South Africa is rated as a technological powerhouse on the African continent. Comparatively South Africa’s educational infrastructure can be compared with the best in the world. Its research sector is by far the strongest in Africa. The country has adopted English as one of its official languages and it is the main medium of instruction in the tertiary education sector. A significant factor which makes South African qualifications attractive is the relatively lower cost of study. Study in South Africa offers the best of both worlds to international students, combining the experience of living in Africa with the opportunity to obtain quality education at a fraction of the cost. In the ten years since 1994, the opening-up of the tertiary education sector in South Africa is evidenced by the dramatic increase of international students studying in the South African public education sector from about 13 000 to more than 47 000 in 2002. While the headcount numbers include distance education students, it is possible that South Africa is currently the leading host country for international students in Africa. An IDP report predicts that by 2025 almost eight million students will be educated trans-nationally. The growth in international student numbers presents South Africa with some exciting challenges in the global context. South Africa is expected to become one of the top nations in the world hosting international students in the next ten yean. Study South Africa is published in the middle of one of the most intense periods of change when the South African education system is being restructured to eliminate duplications created under the apartheid system. The number of public institutions is being reduced from 36 to 23 through mergers and incorporations. The binary divide that existed in the public higher education system pre- 2002, where there were 21 universities and 15 technikons is blurred by the creation of the universities of technology. In spite of the massive transformation, the South African higher education sector has much to offer in the form of quality education, advanced research facilities and internationally recognized qualifications. The information provided in this Guide introduces the individual institutions, their academic offerings, support services provided and other relevant details needed to make a choice of study destination Study South Africa is also a useful tool in the development of a strategy to market South African higher education into the competitive world of international education. The decision by IEASA to develop a marketing strategy is not only a reaction to global higher education pressures, but is also an acknowledgement of South Africa’s return to the global higher education community and in identified geographical areas. IEASA realised that past isolation can only be overturned by conscious new strategies. This 'marketing initiative’ meant that the presence of South Africa was highly visible at some of the leading forums dealing with international education in the world. Study South Africa is undertaken by IEASA in association with the South African Vice-Chancellors Association (SAUVCA) and the Committee of Technikon Principals (CTP). These organizations themselves are set to merge in the near future. We appreciate the support of the Council on Higher Education (CHE), the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), Unitech (Higher Education professional body for marketing, communication and development), and Professor T Mthembu. We are most grarefril to Karen MacGregor, our specialist writer, who compiled the excellent articles in this publication on achievements during the ten years of transformation. I wish to take this opportunity of thanking all those who made contributions for their support and all the tertiary education institutions in the public education sector for their participation. We are grateful to the Department of Foreign Affairs for the distribution of the Guide abroad and to members of the IEASA publications committee for their input. We appreciate the support of Artworks Publishing for working under pressure to meet publications deadline. Special thanks are due to Zandile Wanda for the work in coordinating the response from the tertiary education sector and to Alexandra van Essche for compiling and producing the Guide. Without their efforts it would not have been possible to publish the Guide. , 4th Edition
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The role of management and leadership in the schooling of at-risk learners: a case study of a school in Namibia
- Authors: Ipinge, Emma
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Namibia -- Case studies Educational leadership -- Namibia -- Case studies Education and state -- Namibia School discipline -- Namibia Children with social disabilities -- Education -- Namibia Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003634
- Description: Most schools that serve learners who come from disadvantaged areas and backgrounds face unusually difficult challenges. These schools experience poor performance and disciplinary problems, and teachers lack motivation and commitment. This study explores the role of leadership and management in the schooling of at-risk learners at Pandu Primary School. This school accommodates learners mostly from Hafo, a township characterised by poverty with a high crime rate. However, in spite of these factors school inspectors and advisory teachers perceive the school to be successful. The school uses an abundance of energy and unusually high levels of human effort in a very focused way to improve the teaching and learning standard. The study found the co-existence of apparently conflicting management and leadership approaches in managing and leading the school. Strict control used in the school to make teachers work hard is an element of classical organisational theory, with its emphasis on span of control or number of workers supervised. Policies with strict rules are in place to create a calm atmosphere and serve as directives for teachers and learners. On the other hand, constructivist approaches – such as instructional leadership, transformational leadership, collegial model of management and open systems – are also clearly evident in the findings. Instructional leadership is evident in the emphasis on improvement of classroom practice. Elements of transformational leadership are seen in that the principal motivates the teachers and serves as a role model. The school also has some features of the collegial model of management, and can be described as an open system. Thus, by drawing on management and leadership approaches informed by different traditions and philosophies, the school succeeds against severe odds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Ipinge, Emma
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Namibia -- Case studies Educational leadership -- Namibia -- Case studies Education and state -- Namibia School discipline -- Namibia Children with social disabilities -- Education -- Namibia Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003634
- Description: Most schools that serve learners who come from disadvantaged areas and backgrounds face unusually difficult challenges. These schools experience poor performance and disciplinary problems, and teachers lack motivation and commitment. This study explores the role of leadership and management in the schooling of at-risk learners at Pandu Primary School. This school accommodates learners mostly from Hafo, a township characterised by poverty with a high crime rate. However, in spite of these factors school inspectors and advisory teachers perceive the school to be successful. The school uses an abundance of energy and unusually high levels of human effort in a very focused way to improve the teaching and learning standard. The study found the co-existence of apparently conflicting management and leadership approaches in managing and leading the school. Strict control used in the school to make teachers work hard is an element of classical organisational theory, with its emphasis on span of control or number of workers supervised. Policies with strict rules are in place to create a calm atmosphere and serve as directives for teachers and learners. On the other hand, constructivist approaches – such as instructional leadership, transformational leadership, collegial model of management and open systems – are also clearly evident in the findings. Instructional leadership is evident in the emphasis on improvement of classroom practice. Elements of transformational leadership are seen in that the principal motivates the teachers and serves as a role model. The school also has some features of the collegial model of management, and can be described as an open system. Thus, by drawing on management and leadership approaches informed by different traditions and philosophies, the school succeeds against severe odds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A comparative case study of the strategies used by grade one teachers who teach through the medium of English
- Authors: Jackson, Gail
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Native language and education -- South Africa Language policy -- South Africa Language and education -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa Multilingualism -- South Africa Education, Bilingual -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007855
- Description: This research project begins by exploring the problems surrounding the implementation of the 1997 Language in Education Policy (LiEP), and offers insight into why some schools, despite the promotion of additive bilingualism, choose English as the primary medium of instruction. It is a comparative case study of two Grade 1 classes in different situational contexts, which highlights the teaching strategies and language practices of teachers who teach predominantly non-English speakers through the medium of English. Research carried out through this case study illustrates the use of a wide range of teaching strategies, which assist young learners when learning through an additional language. In School A, thematic linking between different learning areas to maximise vocabulary development in both the mother tongue and the additional language, as well as repetition, recycling, scaffolding and contextualisation of content were found to be important. In addition, the use of questioning to elicit understanding, as well as classroom organisation and code-switching were strategies which assisted both the teacher and learners in this multilingual environment. In School B, class size, group work and the inclusion into the timetable of a wide range of diverse activities over and above the main learning areas, which provided opportunities for language development, were important considerations. In addition, routine, predictability and an attention to detail, in keeping with a form-focussed approach, aided the children in understanding the mechanics of literacy and guiding them towards becoming phonologically aware.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jackson, Gail
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Native language and education -- South Africa Language policy -- South Africa Language and education -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa Multilingualism -- South Africa Education, Bilingual -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007855
- Description: This research project begins by exploring the problems surrounding the implementation of the 1997 Language in Education Policy (LiEP), and offers insight into why some schools, despite the promotion of additive bilingualism, choose English as the primary medium of instruction. It is a comparative case study of two Grade 1 classes in different situational contexts, which highlights the teaching strategies and language practices of teachers who teach predominantly non-English speakers through the medium of English. Research carried out through this case study illustrates the use of a wide range of teaching strategies, which assist young learners when learning through an additional language. In School A, thematic linking between different learning areas to maximise vocabulary development in both the mother tongue and the additional language, as well as repetition, recycling, scaffolding and contextualisation of content were found to be important. In addition, the use of questioning to elicit understanding, as well as classroom organisation and code-switching were strategies which assisted both the teacher and learners in this multilingual environment. In School B, class size, group work and the inclusion into the timetable of a wide range of diverse activities over and above the main learning areas, which provided opportunities for language development, were important considerations. In addition, routine, predictability and an attention to detail, in keeping with a form-focussed approach, aided the children in understanding the mechanics of literacy and guiding them towards becoming phonologically aware.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The kaolinitic clay deposits on Beaconsfield, north of Grahamstown
- Jacob, R E, Mitha, V R, MacPherson, D
- Authors: Jacob, R E , Mitha, V R , MacPherson, D
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6734 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007544
- Description: The Grahamstown clay deposits occur below the Grahamstown Formation silcrete, which forms a remnant of an extensive peneplain that developed on the African erosion surface during the Cretaceous–Tertiary period. This paper provides new data on the distribution of the kaolinitic clay deposits in the Beaconsfield area north of Grahamstown. These data include 23 borehole profiles through the deposits, and the chemistry and mineralogy of the clays. Relatively little information is available on this part of the peneplain. It was found that the thickness of the kaolin horizon varies considerably, but reaches 35m in places. It generally occurs under a silcrete cover, which attains a thickness of 8 m in places. Lithological logs enable direct comparison across the Beaconsfield area. The clays are developed in both the Witteberg Group shale and Dwyka Group tillite. The contact between the clay and underlying bedrock is gradational and relatively uneven. Major-element X-ray fluorescence analyses revealed that there is chemical variation, both vertically and laterally. Al2O3 content is generally near 20%, but may reach 29%. SiO2 content varies between 55 and 70+%. SiO2 contents are highest in the silcretes occurring just below soil level. Fe2O3 is high locally in the top part of the profile. K2O and Na2O are generally low, but increase towards the unweathered bedrock as the primary feldspar content increases. These compositional variations are compatible with residual concentrations of kaolinitic clays through deep weathering below the former African erosion surface.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jacob, R E , Mitha, V R , MacPherson, D
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6734 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007544
- Description: The Grahamstown clay deposits occur below the Grahamstown Formation silcrete, which forms a remnant of an extensive peneplain that developed on the African erosion surface during the Cretaceous–Tertiary period. This paper provides new data on the distribution of the kaolinitic clay deposits in the Beaconsfield area north of Grahamstown. These data include 23 borehole profiles through the deposits, and the chemistry and mineralogy of the clays. Relatively little information is available on this part of the peneplain. It was found that the thickness of the kaolin horizon varies considerably, but reaches 35m in places. It generally occurs under a silcrete cover, which attains a thickness of 8 m in places. Lithological logs enable direct comparison across the Beaconsfield area. The clays are developed in both the Witteberg Group shale and Dwyka Group tillite. The contact between the clay and underlying bedrock is gradational and relatively uneven. Major-element X-ray fluorescence analyses revealed that there is chemical variation, both vertically and laterally. Al2O3 content is generally near 20%, but may reach 29%. SiO2 content varies between 55 and 70+%. SiO2 contents are highest in the silcretes occurring just below soil level. Fe2O3 is high locally in the top part of the profile. K2O and Na2O are generally low, but increase towards the unweathered bedrock as the primary feldspar content increases. These compositional variations are compatible with residual concentrations of kaolinitic clays through deep weathering below the former African erosion surface.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An analysis of automatically scaled F1 layer data over Grahamstown, South Africa
- Jacobs, Linda, Poole, Allon W V, McKinnell, Lee-Anne
- Authors: Jacobs, Linda , Poole, Allon W V , McKinnell, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:6808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004194
- Description: This paper describes an analysis of automatically scaled F1 layer data over Grahamstown, South Africa (33.3°S, 26.5°E). An application for real time raytracing through the South African ionosphere was identified, and for this application real time evaluation of the electron density profile is essential. Raw real time virtual height data are provided by a Lowell Digisonde (DPS), which employs the automatic scaling software, ARTIST whose output includes the virtual-to-real height data conversion. Experience has shown that there are times when the raytracing performance is degraded because of difficulties surrounding the real time characterisation of the F1 region by ARTIST. The purpose of this investigation is to establish the extent of the problem, the times and conditions under which it occurs, with a view to formulating remedial alternative strategies, such as predictive modelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jacobs, Linda , Poole, Allon W V , McKinnell, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:6808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004194
- Description: This paper describes an analysis of automatically scaled F1 layer data over Grahamstown, South Africa (33.3°S, 26.5°E). An application for real time raytracing through the South African ionosphere was identified, and for this application real time evaluation of the electron density profile is essential. Raw real time virtual height data are provided by a Lowell Digisonde (DPS), which employs the automatic scaling software, ARTIST whose output includes the virtual-to-real height data conversion. Experience has shown that there are times when the raytracing performance is degraded because of difficulties surrounding the real time characterisation of the F1 region by ARTIST. The purpose of this investigation is to establish the extent of the problem, the times and conditions under which it occurs, with a view to formulating remedial alternative strategies, such as predictive modelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Sobriety of crisp and fuzzy topological spaces
- Authors: Jacot-Guillarmod, Paul
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005228 , Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Description: The objective of this thesis is a survey of crisp and fuzzy sober topological spaces. We begin by examining sobriety of crisp topological spaces. We then extend this to the L- topological case and obtain analogous results and characterizations to those of the crisp case. We then brie y examine semi-sobriety of (L;M)-topological spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jacot-Guillarmod, Paul
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005228 , Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Description: The objective of this thesis is a survey of crisp and fuzzy sober topological spaces. We begin by examining sobriety of crisp topological spaces. We then extend this to the L- topological case and obtain analogous results and characterizations to those of the crisp case. We then brie y examine semi-sobriety of (L;M)-topological spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The application of rheological techniques in the characterization of semisolids in the pharmaceutical industry
- Authors: Jaganath, Nelesh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/380 , Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Description: Rheological characterization of pharmaceutical semisolids is of importance as it provides fundamental information required for the assessment of some of the final properties of a product such as viscosity, elasticity, quality and storage stability. The effect of formulation variables on product characteristics such as consistency and correlation of consumer evaluation of consistency can also be attained. (Ramachandran et al., 1999) This study focussed on using rheological techniques to fully characterize the properties of various semisolid formulations being developed or produced at a South African-based generic pharmaceutical company. Various tests were employed to characterize the semisolid dosage forms (creams and ointments), including continuous shear tests such as flow and viscosity curves and yield point measurements, oscillatory tests such as amplitude and frequency sweeps, as well as step and temperature ramp tests. A method to determine justifiable and meaningful viscosity specifications was developed, where excellent reproducibility of results were obtained when compared to the single-point viscosity determinations usually used. An evaluation as to whether rheology can be utilized as an assessment tool for product stability revealed varying results, with the oscillation-frequency sweep test displaying modest predictive capabilities. Observable differences in rheological character were found when evaluating ointment formulations exhibiting deviating quality characteristics. When analysing the effect of varying processing parameters, namely, cooling rate and mixing speed, during the manufacture of a cream, statistically significant rheological differences were obtained, while a thorough characterization of a scale-up procedure was also achieved upon analysis of various rheological properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jaganath, Nelesh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/380 , Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Description: Rheological characterization of pharmaceutical semisolids is of importance as it provides fundamental information required for the assessment of some of the final properties of a product such as viscosity, elasticity, quality and storage stability. The effect of formulation variables on product characteristics such as consistency and correlation of consumer evaluation of consistency can also be attained. (Ramachandran et al., 1999) This study focussed on using rheological techniques to fully characterize the properties of various semisolid formulations being developed or produced at a South African-based generic pharmaceutical company. Various tests were employed to characterize the semisolid dosage forms (creams and ointments), including continuous shear tests such as flow and viscosity curves and yield point measurements, oscillatory tests such as amplitude and frequency sweeps, as well as step and temperature ramp tests. A method to determine justifiable and meaningful viscosity specifications was developed, where excellent reproducibility of results were obtained when compared to the single-point viscosity determinations usually used. An evaluation as to whether rheology can be utilized as an assessment tool for product stability revealed varying results, with the oscillation-frequency sweep test displaying modest predictive capabilities. Observable differences in rheological character were found when evaluating ointment formulations exhibiting deviating quality characteristics. When analysing the effect of varying processing parameters, namely, cooling rate and mixing speed, during the manufacture of a cream, statistically significant rheological differences were obtained, while a thorough characterization of a scale-up procedure was also achieved upon analysis of various rheological properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The location of meaning in the postmodernist literary text: a reading of Mark Z. Danielewski's House of Leaves and related material
- Authors: Jeffery, Thomas Carnegie
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Danielewski, Mark Z. House of leaves , Danielewski, Mark Z. Criticism and interpretation , Horror tales , English literature -- Criticism, Textual , Literature, Modern -- History and criticism , Postmodernism (Literature)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002238
- Description: In House of Leaves, Mark Z. Danielewski has produced a text which epitomises the traits and concerns of postmodernist literature. Through his attention to aspects such as metafiction, intertextuality and parody, Danielewski develops a narrative structure which is best understood as a literary labyrinth. It is a structure intended to reflect the social conditions of the twenty-first century and comment on the experience of people living at this time. Some of the meaning-making strategies within the book’s labyrinthine structure are thus discussed in detail in order to demonstrate the relevance and importance of House of Leaves as social commentary. House of Leaves is an exemplary postmodernist text, but it is also one that seeks to guide the reader beyond the intellectual impasse of the postmodernist paradigm toward a renewed ethical and political engagement with the world. One of the most important goals of both Danielewski’s novel and this thesis is to attempt to redefine the postmodernist perspective in such a way as to insist on the necessity of what I call a new realism. This is founded upon an awareness of the pervasiveness of the self-perpetuating ideology of capitalism, even in the perspective of postmodernism (which purports to subvert all authoritative ideologies). Playing a crucial role in perpetuating the status quo of capitalism is the growth of entertainment culture, which works to sideline crucial political issues by replacing information with infotainment. The result is an intensification of the processes of commodification. Such an intensification, it is argued, may be countered by a radical scepticism which draws upon the methods and insights of contemporary science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jeffery, Thomas Carnegie
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Danielewski, Mark Z. House of leaves , Danielewski, Mark Z. Criticism and interpretation , Horror tales , English literature -- Criticism, Textual , Literature, Modern -- History and criticism , Postmodernism (Literature)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002238
- Description: In House of Leaves, Mark Z. Danielewski has produced a text which epitomises the traits and concerns of postmodernist literature. Through his attention to aspects such as metafiction, intertextuality and parody, Danielewski develops a narrative structure which is best understood as a literary labyrinth. It is a structure intended to reflect the social conditions of the twenty-first century and comment on the experience of people living at this time. Some of the meaning-making strategies within the book’s labyrinthine structure are thus discussed in detail in order to demonstrate the relevance and importance of House of Leaves as social commentary. House of Leaves is an exemplary postmodernist text, but it is also one that seeks to guide the reader beyond the intellectual impasse of the postmodernist paradigm toward a renewed ethical and political engagement with the world. One of the most important goals of both Danielewski’s novel and this thesis is to attempt to redefine the postmodernist perspective in such a way as to insist on the necessity of what I call a new realism. This is founded upon an awareness of the pervasiveness of the self-perpetuating ideology of capitalism, even in the perspective of postmodernism (which purports to subvert all authoritative ideologies). Playing a crucial role in perpetuating the status quo of capitalism is the growth of entertainment culture, which works to sideline crucial political issues by replacing information with infotainment. The result is an intensification of the processes of commodification. Such an intensification, it is argued, may be countered by a radical scepticism which draws upon the methods and insights of contemporary science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
- Authors: Joubert, Christine
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/397 , Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Description: This study determined the effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with Development Coordination Disorder (DCD). The water-based programme promoted an alternative environment for DCD children, involving all dimensions of movement. Thirty-one (31) children from Port Elizabeth participated, with an experimental group (n=15) following the eight-week water-based programme, while a control group (n=16) carried on with daily activities. Motor proficiency was measured during three tests, utilizing the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP). Results indicated positive effects of the intervention on all the variables of the BOTMP (p < 0.05). Confirming this, three variables obtained practical significance with Cohen’s d > 0.8, and one with 0.2 < d < 0.8. At the end of the three-month duration of the study, the experimental group indicated better performances at the end of the study than at the start, thereby confirming the positive and lasting effect of the water-based intervention programme. Therefore, the use of a water-based programme in improving motor proficiency is supported. However, implementation of the programme over a longer period is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Joubert, Christine
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/397 , Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Description: This study determined the effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with Development Coordination Disorder (DCD). The water-based programme promoted an alternative environment for DCD children, involving all dimensions of movement. Thirty-one (31) children from Port Elizabeth participated, with an experimental group (n=15) following the eight-week water-based programme, while a control group (n=16) carried on with daily activities. Motor proficiency was measured during three tests, utilizing the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP). Results indicated positive effects of the intervention on all the variables of the BOTMP (p < 0.05). Confirming this, three variables obtained practical significance with Cohen’s d > 0.8, and one with 0.2 < d < 0.8. At the end of the three-month duration of the study, the experimental group indicated better performances at the end of the study than at the start, thereby confirming the positive and lasting effect of the water-based intervention programme. Therefore, the use of a water-based programme in improving motor proficiency is supported. However, implementation of the programme over a longer period is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An investigation into the neuroprotective effects of melatonin in a model of rotenone-induced neurodegeneration
- Authors: Kadanthode, Rubina John
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Melatonin , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Rotenone
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3763 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003241 , Melatonin , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Rotenone
- Description: Parkinson’s disease, one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders associated with ageing, is characterised by abnormal and profound loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but epidemiological studies suggest an association with pesticides and other environmental toxins, and biochemical studies implicate oxidative damage and mitochondrial impairment, particularly at the level of complex I enzyme. Recently, rotenone, a commonly used organic pesticide and a classical inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I has been reported to reproduce the specific features of Parkinson’s disease in rodents. The mitochondrial respiratory chain is one of the most important sites of reactive oxygen species production under physiological conditions. Toxic free radicals have been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases as well as ageing itself. Melatonin, a secretory product of the pineal gland is a multifaceted free radical scavenger and natural antioxidant. In the present study, the neuroprotective effects of melatonin against the environmental neurotoxin, rotenone was investigated. Initial studies showed that inhibition of mitochondrial complex I enzyme by rotenone induced superoxide radical generation. Melatonin, administered to the rat in vivo and in vitro was able to offer neuroprotection by curtailing the production of superoxide radicals induced by rotenone. Mitochondria, being the major target of rotenone, the effects of melatonin were investigated at the mitochondrial level. Melatonin was able to increase the electron transport chain activity thus preventing the respiratory inhibition by rotenone. The pineal hormone also counteracted the action of rotenone on complex I enzyme. These results suggest melatonin’s ability to potentially limit the free radical generation and thereby modulate the mitochondrial functions. The detection and measurement of lipid peroxidation is the evidence most frequently cited to support the involvement of free radical reactions in toxicology and in human disease. Melatonin also offered significant protection in vivo and in vitro against rotenone induced lipid peroxidation. Since iron plays a major role in oxidative damage and in the progression of Parkinson’s disease, the effect of melatonin on both rotenone and iron induced lipid peroxidation was investigated, the results of which show that melatonin affords protection and this was suggested to be due to its interaction with the rotenone-iron complex that might have formed. Electrochemical studies were further used to characterise the interactions between melatonin, rotenone and iron (III). Melatonin was shown to bind with iron and thus reducing their toxicity. Histological studies were undertaken to assess the effects of melatonin on rotenone induced toxicity on the dopaminergic neurons in the rat brain. Rotenone treated brains showed extensive neuronal damage whereas with melatonin less damage was observed. Rotenone induces apoptosis via reactive oxygen species production and apoptotic cell death has been identified in PD brains. Furthermore, the apoptotic cell death was detected and quantified by the TUNEL staining. Rotenone treated sections showed signs of apoptosis whereas with melatonin, less apoptotic damage was observed. The findings of this study indicate that the neurohormone, melatonin may protect against rotenone-induced neurodegeneration. Since melatonin production falls substantially during ageing, the loss of this antioxidant is theorized to be instrumental in the degenerative processes associated with advanced age. Considering how devastating diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, are to a patient and the patient’s families, the discovery of protective agents are a matter of urgency. Further investigations using the pesticide model will help to determine the involvement of environmental exposure in the pathogenesis of human diseases as well as to test therapeutic strategies for the treatment of such diseases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Kadanthode, Rubina John
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Melatonin , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Rotenone
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3763 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003241 , Melatonin , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Rotenone
- Description: Parkinson’s disease, one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders associated with ageing, is characterised by abnormal and profound loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but epidemiological studies suggest an association with pesticides and other environmental toxins, and biochemical studies implicate oxidative damage and mitochondrial impairment, particularly at the level of complex I enzyme. Recently, rotenone, a commonly used organic pesticide and a classical inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I has been reported to reproduce the specific features of Parkinson’s disease in rodents. The mitochondrial respiratory chain is one of the most important sites of reactive oxygen species production under physiological conditions. Toxic free radicals have been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases as well as ageing itself. Melatonin, a secretory product of the pineal gland is a multifaceted free radical scavenger and natural antioxidant. In the present study, the neuroprotective effects of melatonin against the environmental neurotoxin, rotenone was investigated. Initial studies showed that inhibition of mitochondrial complex I enzyme by rotenone induced superoxide radical generation. Melatonin, administered to the rat in vivo and in vitro was able to offer neuroprotection by curtailing the production of superoxide radicals induced by rotenone. Mitochondria, being the major target of rotenone, the effects of melatonin were investigated at the mitochondrial level. Melatonin was able to increase the electron transport chain activity thus preventing the respiratory inhibition by rotenone. The pineal hormone also counteracted the action of rotenone on complex I enzyme. These results suggest melatonin’s ability to potentially limit the free radical generation and thereby modulate the mitochondrial functions. The detection and measurement of lipid peroxidation is the evidence most frequently cited to support the involvement of free radical reactions in toxicology and in human disease. Melatonin also offered significant protection in vivo and in vitro against rotenone induced lipid peroxidation. Since iron plays a major role in oxidative damage and in the progression of Parkinson’s disease, the effect of melatonin on both rotenone and iron induced lipid peroxidation was investigated, the results of which show that melatonin affords protection and this was suggested to be due to its interaction with the rotenone-iron complex that might have formed. Electrochemical studies were further used to characterise the interactions between melatonin, rotenone and iron (III). Melatonin was shown to bind with iron and thus reducing their toxicity. Histological studies were undertaken to assess the effects of melatonin on rotenone induced toxicity on the dopaminergic neurons in the rat brain. Rotenone treated brains showed extensive neuronal damage whereas with melatonin less damage was observed. Rotenone induces apoptosis via reactive oxygen species production and apoptotic cell death has been identified in PD brains. Furthermore, the apoptotic cell death was detected and quantified by the TUNEL staining. Rotenone treated sections showed signs of apoptosis whereas with melatonin, less apoptotic damage was observed. The findings of this study indicate that the neurohormone, melatonin may protect against rotenone-induced neurodegeneration. Since melatonin production falls substantially during ageing, the loss of this antioxidant is theorized to be instrumental in the degenerative processes associated with advanced age. Considering how devastating diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, are to a patient and the patient’s families, the discovery of protective agents are a matter of urgency. Further investigations using the pesticide model will help to determine the involvement of environmental exposure in the pathogenesis of human diseases as well as to test therapeutic strategies for the treatment of such diseases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Factors affecting the invasion of Pteronia incana (Blue bush) onto hillslopes in Ngqushwa (formerly Peddie) District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kakembo, Vincent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Shrubs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Slopes (Physical geography) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Biological invasions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005508
- Description: The factors that influence the invasion of hillslopes by the shrub Pteronia incana in the communal rangelands of Ngqushwa (formerly Peddie) district were investigated. Mgwalana, one of the catchments in the district where encroachment by the species is widespread, was chosen. The study combined field observations with image analysis based on high resolution infrared imagery. The catchment was flown and high resolution infrared images (1mx1m) were taken using a Kodak DCS420 digital, colour-infrared camera. The images were analysed using Idrisi32 and Kilimanjaro GIS versions. The ability of different vegetation indices to separate P. incana from the other cover types was investigated. Field observations of the degree of P. incana invasion in relation to, inter alia, soil surface conditions, slope angle and visible forms of erosion were made. A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of 20m spatial resolution was used to derive terrain parameters. The presence and absence of P. incana in relation to slope gradient and aspect were determined. The combined influence of the two terrain parameters and land use on the invasion was also investigated. The Topographic Wetness Index (WI), a component of the TOPMODEL was derived from the DEM and its relationship with the spatial distribution of P. incana was explored. Soil moisture dependencies for P. incana and grass species as well as surrogates for runoff under the shrub and adjacent bare areas were determined in the field. A high level of classification accuracy confirmed the reliability of digital camera imagery for spatial analyses. Distinct spectral separability for the surface vegetation cover types was achieved by means of the Perpendicular Vegetation Index (PVI) as opposed to the ratio based vegetation indices (NDVI, SAVI and MSAVI). The absence/presence of P. incana was noted to be strongly influenced by slope angle and aspect. The probability for P. incana occurrence increased with slope steepness and southerly slope orientation. Abandoned and grazing lands were identified as the main invasion hotspots. Blanket invasion of the former signified the high susceptibility of abandoned land to P. incana invasion. The combined influence of land use, slope gradient and aspect was also noted to have promoted the invasion. This is borne out by the concentration of the invasion on abandoned steep slopes with a southerly orientation. Local topographic variations were identified as having a strong bearing on P. incana spatial distribution. The topographically driven WI confirmed this relationship, such that P. incana was associated with the low WI values of convexities. Differences in the moisture dependencies between P. incana and grass species were demonstrated by the greater rooting depth of the former. During field surveys, soil surface crusting was noted as inherent to P. incana patchiness. The coupling between local topography and soil surface crusting underpins soil moisture variability at hillslope and patch scales respectively. This in turn determines the competition between P. incana and grass species and the eventual replacement of the latter by the former. A close spatial correlation between fully established P. incana and severe forms of soil erosion was observed. Loss of patchiness and expansion of inter-patch bare areas promote runoff connectivity erosion. As most of the runoff becomes run out, hillslopes tend towards dysfunctional systems. Greater soil moisture storage after rainstorms under P. incana tussocks than the adjacent bare areas signifies the shrub’s water harvesting capabilities. The tussocks could thus serve as a starting-pointbuilding- block for the rehabilitation of dysfunctional hillslope systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Kakembo, Vincent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Shrubs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Slopes (Physical geography) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Biological invasions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005508
- Description: The factors that influence the invasion of hillslopes by the shrub Pteronia incana in the communal rangelands of Ngqushwa (formerly Peddie) district were investigated. Mgwalana, one of the catchments in the district where encroachment by the species is widespread, was chosen. The study combined field observations with image analysis based on high resolution infrared imagery. The catchment was flown and high resolution infrared images (1mx1m) were taken using a Kodak DCS420 digital, colour-infrared camera. The images were analysed using Idrisi32 and Kilimanjaro GIS versions. The ability of different vegetation indices to separate P. incana from the other cover types was investigated. Field observations of the degree of P. incana invasion in relation to, inter alia, soil surface conditions, slope angle and visible forms of erosion were made. A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of 20m spatial resolution was used to derive terrain parameters. The presence and absence of P. incana in relation to slope gradient and aspect were determined. The combined influence of the two terrain parameters and land use on the invasion was also investigated. The Topographic Wetness Index (WI), a component of the TOPMODEL was derived from the DEM and its relationship with the spatial distribution of P. incana was explored. Soil moisture dependencies for P. incana and grass species as well as surrogates for runoff under the shrub and adjacent bare areas were determined in the field. A high level of classification accuracy confirmed the reliability of digital camera imagery for spatial analyses. Distinct spectral separability for the surface vegetation cover types was achieved by means of the Perpendicular Vegetation Index (PVI) as opposed to the ratio based vegetation indices (NDVI, SAVI and MSAVI). The absence/presence of P. incana was noted to be strongly influenced by slope angle and aspect. The probability for P. incana occurrence increased with slope steepness and southerly slope orientation. Abandoned and grazing lands were identified as the main invasion hotspots. Blanket invasion of the former signified the high susceptibility of abandoned land to P. incana invasion. The combined influence of land use, slope gradient and aspect was also noted to have promoted the invasion. This is borne out by the concentration of the invasion on abandoned steep slopes with a southerly orientation. Local topographic variations were identified as having a strong bearing on P. incana spatial distribution. The topographically driven WI confirmed this relationship, such that P. incana was associated with the low WI values of convexities. Differences in the moisture dependencies between P. incana and grass species were demonstrated by the greater rooting depth of the former. During field surveys, soil surface crusting was noted as inherent to P. incana patchiness. The coupling between local topography and soil surface crusting underpins soil moisture variability at hillslope and patch scales respectively. This in turn determines the competition between P. incana and grass species and the eventual replacement of the latter by the former. A close spatial correlation between fully established P. incana and severe forms of soil erosion was observed. Loss of patchiness and expansion of inter-patch bare areas promote runoff connectivity erosion. As most of the runoff becomes run out, hillslopes tend towards dysfunctional systems. Greater soil moisture storage after rainstorms under P. incana tussocks than the adjacent bare areas signifies the shrub’s water harvesting capabilities. The tussocks could thus serve as a starting-pointbuilding- block for the rehabilitation of dysfunctional hillslope systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004