A phenomenological exploration of adoptive parents' motivation for and experience of transracial adoption in South Africa
- Authors: Attwell, Terry-Anne
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Interracial adoption -- South Africa , Race awareness in children -- South Africa , Prejudices in children -- South Africa , Adoption -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , South Africa -- Race relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2927 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002436 , Interracial adoption -- South Africa , Race awareness in children -- South Africa , Prejudices in children -- South Africa , Adoption -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , South Africa -- Race relations
- Description: Prior to the democratic elections of 1994, South Africa was daunted by legislation flooded with racial segregation. Adoption across racial lines is, because of South Africa’s racially segregated past, a relatively recent phenomenon in this country. The number of legal adoptions has increased dramatically, especially after its legalization in 1991. Parents may adopt across racial lines for an array of different reasons, from not being able to conceive a baby, to wanting to give a child the best opportunity in life. This study explored the experiences of white parents who have adopted black children, paying particular attention to how they deal with issues of “racial” identity. In-depth interviews were used to generate qualitative data pertaining to the parental perceptions of their motivation for, and experiences of adopting a child transracially in South Africa. The study aimed to explore their motivation for adopting and experiences, as well as issues relating to “racial” identity. Recommendations have been made to assist parents who are interested in adopting transracially. The report presents findings relating to the unique characteristics of the participants who have adopted transracially. These include adopters’ motivation and thought processes before taking the relevant steps to adopt transracially; the support that they have received from others in their decision to adopt transracially; communication patterns; their relevant concerns regarding the future of their adopted child; and issues pertaining to race, culture, heritage, prejudices and stereotypes. The findings suggest that parents were pragmatic, without regrets, in their views about adopting across racial lines. The parents’ motivations for adopting across racial lines were very similar to various perspectives, but were all due to the fact that they were unable to have biological children. Parents were aware of the child’s identity and cultural issues, which may be more perceptible in the future. Their perceptions, views and opinions, and the future concerns of their children were not unrealistic. Due to the children’s young age a follow-up study of these children should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Attwell, Terry-Anne
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Interracial adoption -- South Africa , Race awareness in children -- South Africa , Prejudices in children -- South Africa , Adoption -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , South Africa -- Race relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2927 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002436 , Interracial adoption -- South Africa , Race awareness in children -- South Africa , Prejudices in children -- South Africa , Adoption -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , South Africa -- Race relations
- Description: Prior to the democratic elections of 1994, South Africa was daunted by legislation flooded with racial segregation. Adoption across racial lines is, because of South Africa’s racially segregated past, a relatively recent phenomenon in this country. The number of legal adoptions has increased dramatically, especially after its legalization in 1991. Parents may adopt across racial lines for an array of different reasons, from not being able to conceive a baby, to wanting to give a child the best opportunity in life. This study explored the experiences of white parents who have adopted black children, paying particular attention to how they deal with issues of “racial” identity. In-depth interviews were used to generate qualitative data pertaining to the parental perceptions of their motivation for, and experiences of adopting a child transracially in South Africa. The study aimed to explore their motivation for adopting and experiences, as well as issues relating to “racial” identity. Recommendations have been made to assist parents who are interested in adopting transracially. The report presents findings relating to the unique characteristics of the participants who have adopted transracially. These include adopters’ motivation and thought processes before taking the relevant steps to adopt transracially; the support that they have received from others in their decision to adopt transracially; communication patterns; their relevant concerns regarding the future of their adopted child; and issues pertaining to race, culture, heritage, prejudices and stereotypes. The findings suggest that parents were pragmatic, without regrets, in their views about adopting across racial lines. The parents’ motivations for adopting across racial lines were very similar to various perspectives, but were all due to the fact that they were unable to have biological children. Parents were aware of the child’s identity and cultural issues, which may be more perceptible in the future. Their perceptions, views and opinions, and the future concerns of their children were not unrealistic. Due to the children’s young age a follow-up study of these children should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A phenomenological hermeneutic investigation into the psychoanalytic psychotherapist's experience of using the psychoanalytic couch
- Authors: Milton, Christopher
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Freud, Sigmund, 1856-1939 -- Criticism and interpretation Psychoanalysis Psychotherapy Psychotherapy -- Methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3162 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007655
- Description: The aim of this study was to describe and critically explore the psychoanalytic, psychotherapist's lived experience of the technique of using the couch. Through examination of the literature a question was formulated that would disclose the analyst's experience of the technique of using the couch. Four experienced psychoanalytic practitioners who could be operationally defined as 'analysts' were interviewed. Using a phenomenological method the protocols were comprehensively analyzed to produce descriptions of the general structure of the experience. These were then texturally enhanced using interleaved direct citations from the interviews. The structural and textural 'findings ' so produced were then hermeneutically dialogued with contemporary psychoanalytic notions of critical discourse and intersubjectivity. The phenomenological ' findings ' of the study disclosed the meaning of the couch as context-based, paradoxical and ambiguous. The couch was found to be a symbol of the analyst as analyst and the process as authentic analysis. Furthermore, at its best, the couch was found to mediate a mode of being that is containing and intimate and in which psychological life may be evoked, tracked and interpreted. The most significant contributor to this mode of being was found to be privacy, which, in particular, helps the analyst maintain an analytic attitude. The couch was also found to be significantly implicated in the generation of an intersubjective analytic third and to support reverie. These 'findings' were hermeneutically dialogued with literature on the couch as well as contemporary psychoanalytic theoretical notions. The dialogue fell into three foci. The first focus entailed deconstructing the meaning of the couch as context-based and ambiguous and not essential. The second pursued critiques of the role that the couch plays in domination, of its function as a symbol/evocative object and of the way in which it shapes being-together, bodily attunement, privacy, the intersubjective analytic third and reverie. Finally the 'findings' were critically examined in terms of both Lacan's notion 'analytic discourse ' and its role in revealing/concealing the analysand as subject. The study concludes with an examination of its own limitations and suggestions for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Milton, Christopher
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Freud, Sigmund, 1856-1939 -- Criticism and interpretation Psychoanalysis Psychotherapy Psychotherapy -- Methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3162 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007655
- Description: The aim of this study was to describe and critically explore the psychoanalytic, psychotherapist's lived experience of the technique of using the couch. Through examination of the literature a question was formulated that would disclose the analyst's experience of the technique of using the couch. Four experienced psychoanalytic practitioners who could be operationally defined as 'analysts' were interviewed. Using a phenomenological method the protocols were comprehensively analyzed to produce descriptions of the general structure of the experience. These were then texturally enhanced using interleaved direct citations from the interviews. The structural and textural 'findings ' so produced were then hermeneutically dialogued with contemporary psychoanalytic notions of critical discourse and intersubjectivity. The phenomenological ' findings ' of the study disclosed the meaning of the couch as context-based, paradoxical and ambiguous. The couch was found to be a symbol of the analyst as analyst and the process as authentic analysis. Furthermore, at its best, the couch was found to mediate a mode of being that is containing and intimate and in which psychological life may be evoked, tracked and interpreted. The most significant contributor to this mode of being was found to be privacy, which, in particular, helps the analyst maintain an analytic attitude. The couch was also found to be significantly implicated in the generation of an intersubjective analytic third and to support reverie. These 'findings' were hermeneutically dialogued with literature on the couch as well as contemporary psychoanalytic theoretical notions. The dialogue fell into three foci. The first focus entailed deconstructing the meaning of the couch as context-based and ambiguous and not essential. The second pursued critiques of the role that the couch plays in domination, of its function as a symbol/evocative object and of the way in which it shapes being-together, bodily attunement, privacy, the intersubjective analytic third and reverie. Finally the 'findings' were critically examined in terms of both Lacan's notion 'analytic discourse ' and its role in revealing/concealing the analysand as subject. The study concludes with an examination of its own limitations and suggestions for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A resource-based learning approach to professional development: the case of the ACEE (Rhodes University Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education)
- Agria Russo, Vladimir Kiluange
- Authors: Agria Russo, Vladimir Kiluange
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Rhodes University Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003625
- Description: This interpretative case study derives and examines the characterising features of the resource-based learning approach used in the Rhodes University Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education (ACEE), particularly in Module 1 (Environment and Environmental Issues) and Module 3 (Contemporary Environmental Issues). The study explores processes of resource-based learning through the analysis of three individual case stories of participants’ experience in adaptive use of learning support materials in different work contexts. It discusses the relationship between thematic categories related to participants’ experience of assignment work, and course design and course implementation. This study indicates that resource-based learning processes in the ACEE involve curriculum deliberation and the use of resource packs in supporting participants’ practice. It also indicates that the ACEE’s practice-based orientation to workplace-based assignments plays an important role in supporting the adaptive use of learning support materials, encouraging lifelong learning and developing applied competence. It highlights the significance of reflexive narration of practice in improving course participants’ educational practice. A diagrammatic representation of the unfolding and intermeshed characterising features of resource-based learning is presented. The study argues that resource-based learning in the ACEE appears to create possibilities for the course participants to become scaffolders and co-constructors of their own learning. It notes that resource-based learning can enable course participants to take ownership of their educational and workplace needs, and to develop skills and competences necessary to respond to environmental issues and risks in southern Africa. This study examines the potential that the reflexive narration of practice has in supporting course participants to engage in better ways of doing things in their workplace-based contexts. This study provides some recommendations to enhance the Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education as well as some ‘fuzzy generalisations’ that might guide the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Environmental Education Programme (REEP) in the development and adaptation of professional development courses in southern Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Agria Russo, Vladimir Kiluange
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Rhodes University Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003625
- Description: This interpretative case study derives and examines the characterising features of the resource-based learning approach used in the Rhodes University Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education (ACEE), particularly in Module 1 (Environment and Environmental Issues) and Module 3 (Contemporary Environmental Issues). The study explores processes of resource-based learning through the analysis of three individual case stories of participants’ experience in adaptive use of learning support materials in different work contexts. It discusses the relationship between thematic categories related to participants’ experience of assignment work, and course design and course implementation. This study indicates that resource-based learning processes in the ACEE involve curriculum deliberation and the use of resource packs in supporting participants’ practice. It also indicates that the ACEE’s practice-based orientation to workplace-based assignments plays an important role in supporting the adaptive use of learning support materials, encouraging lifelong learning and developing applied competence. It highlights the significance of reflexive narration of practice in improving course participants’ educational practice. A diagrammatic representation of the unfolding and intermeshed characterising features of resource-based learning is presented. The study argues that resource-based learning in the ACEE appears to create possibilities for the course participants to become scaffolders and co-constructors of their own learning. It notes that resource-based learning can enable course participants to take ownership of their educational and workplace needs, and to develop skills and competences necessary to respond to environmental issues and risks in southern Africa. This study examines the potential that the reflexive narration of practice has in supporting course participants to engage in better ways of doing things in their workplace-based contexts. This study provides some recommendations to enhance the Advanced Certificate in Environmental Education as well as some ‘fuzzy generalisations’ that might guide the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Environmental Education Programme (REEP) in the development and adaptation of professional development courses in southern Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A statistical evaluation and analysis of mosquito repellent combination
- Authors: Asquith, Ilse Bernadette
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Mosquitoes -- Control , Insect baits and repellents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015732
- Description: The present product development project was aimed at studying the synergism and/or antagonism amongst various known insect repellent actives with the view to formulating a multi-active repellent product with improved properties when compared to current single-active commercial products. Advanced statistical methods were used to identify synergism between individual active substances and to define a formulation as close as possible to the “ideal” formulation. Several mosquito repellent samples were prepared and sent to the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) in Pretoria to test for their efficiency in repelling mosquitoes. From the results of the repellency tests of the various active combinations, three actives were identified that showed promising signs of synergism. These actives were then studied in further detail to determine their optimum combination. In addition, it was shown that when using a natural flavourant as promoter and incorporating a slow-release agent into formulations for aerosols and lotions, a product is obtained that gives comparable levels of efficiency to current commercial products, but at much reduced levels of active loading. Accelerated stability tests performed on the final combination of the three actives used in the final formulation showed no adverse reactions over a three-week study. These tests shall be repeated once the final application form (lotion, aerosol, etc) and product packing have been decided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Asquith, Ilse Bernadette
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Mosquitoes -- Control , Insect baits and repellents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015732
- Description: The present product development project was aimed at studying the synergism and/or antagonism amongst various known insect repellent actives with the view to formulating a multi-active repellent product with improved properties when compared to current single-active commercial products. Advanced statistical methods were used to identify synergism between individual active substances and to define a formulation as close as possible to the “ideal” formulation. Several mosquito repellent samples were prepared and sent to the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) in Pretoria to test for their efficiency in repelling mosquitoes. From the results of the repellency tests of the various active combinations, three actives were identified that showed promising signs of synergism. These actives were then studied in further detail to determine their optimum combination. In addition, it was shown that when using a natural flavourant as promoter and incorporating a slow-release agent into formulations for aerosols and lotions, a product is obtained that gives comparable levels of efficiency to current commercial products, but at much reduced levels of active loading. Accelerated stability tests performed on the final combination of the three actives used in the final formulation showed no adverse reactions over a three-week study. These tests shall be repeated once the final application form (lotion, aerosol, etc) and product packing have been decided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A study of how a customer relationship management programme can assist SAB Miller improve customer service to off-trade retailers in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Dias, Ricardo
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , South African Breweries Ltd. Customer services , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/183 , Customer relations -- Management , South African Breweries Ltd. Customer services , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Description: A customer relationship management programme is a management tool that enables organisations to identify, satisfy and retain customers profitably by leveraging information technology. In addition to this the programme also links all the functional business units of the organisation together to operate as a single cohesive unit. This paper investigates whether or not SAB Miller should utilise a customer relationship management programme to provide off-trade retailers with world-class customer service. An important reason for this investigation is that the local beer market has experienced declining growth over the past few years. Furthermore SAB Miller which has had a monopoly in the South African beer market now faces increased competition in the premium segment of the beer market, which is experiencing growth and has good margins. In order to determine whether or not SAB Miller should institute a customer relationship management programme, a theoretical and empirical investigation was undertaken. The theoretical investigation provided a background to what components make up a customer relationship management programme and how these components are used to develop a customer relationship management strategic framework. Due to customer relationship management programmes not operating in isolation, the various key functions that support a customer relationship management programme were also introduced. Both the advantages and disadvantages of using such a programme were also introduced. The information technology aspects of the customer relationship management programme were also investigated. In terms of the empirical study it was determined that SAB Miller is not currently using a customer relationship management programme. The company, however, does make use of a tailored service package to segment their customers, to determine call frequencies by representatives, the financial needs of customers and what level of service to provide to customers. However, after conducting personal interviews with a sample of off-trade retailers in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, it was determined that SAB Miller and Namibian Breweries Ltd (Brandhouse) provided very similar levels of service in terms of key functions supported by a customer relationship management programme. Therefore, by introducing a customer relationship management programme, SAB Miller could enhance their service levels and profitability to off-trade retailers in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Dias, Ricardo
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , South African Breweries Ltd. Customer services , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/183 , Customer relations -- Management , South African Breweries Ltd. Customer services , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Description: A customer relationship management programme is a management tool that enables organisations to identify, satisfy and retain customers profitably by leveraging information technology. In addition to this the programme also links all the functional business units of the organisation together to operate as a single cohesive unit. This paper investigates whether or not SAB Miller should utilise a customer relationship management programme to provide off-trade retailers with world-class customer service. An important reason for this investigation is that the local beer market has experienced declining growth over the past few years. Furthermore SAB Miller which has had a monopoly in the South African beer market now faces increased competition in the premium segment of the beer market, which is experiencing growth and has good margins. In order to determine whether or not SAB Miller should institute a customer relationship management programme, a theoretical and empirical investigation was undertaken. The theoretical investigation provided a background to what components make up a customer relationship management programme and how these components are used to develop a customer relationship management strategic framework. Due to customer relationship management programmes not operating in isolation, the various key functions that support a customer relationship management programme were also introduced. Both the advantages and disadvantages of using such a programme were also introduced. The information technology aspects of the customer relationship management programme were also investigated. In terms of the empirical study it was determined that SAB Miller is not currently using a customer relationship management programme. The company, however, does make use of a tailored service package to segment their customers, to determine call frequencies by representatives, the financial needs of customers and what level of service to provide to customers. However, after conducting personal interviews with a sample of off-trade retailers in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, it was determined that SAB Miller and Namibian Breweries Ltd (Brandhouse) provided very similar levels of service in terms of key functions supported by a customer relationship management programme. Therefore, by introducing a customer relationship management programme, SAB Miller could enhance their service levels and profitability to off-trade retailers in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A study of Ted Hughes's Birthday letters
- Authors: Highman, Kathryn Barbara
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hughes, Ted, 1930-1998 Criticism and interpretation Hughes, Ted, 1930-1998 Birthday Letters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2193 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002235
- Description: This thesis focusses on the literary self-reflexivity of Birthday Letters, Ted Hughes's collection of poems addressed to his long-dead first wife, poet Sylvia Plath. By close attention to the language of select poems and a discussion of cross-referencing images and allusions across the volume, and intertextually, I argue that the collection is more self-consciously ordered and designed than the mainly biographical criticism the work has met with suggests. The thesis focusses on the poets' art rather than the biographical context of Birthday Letters, though it does not draw a neat distinction between their lives and their poetry - rather it demonstrates how Birthday Letters itself treats the relationship of art to life thematically. The introduction outlines the context of the volume's genesis and publication and the notions of poetry, myth and drama out of which Hughes works, and introduces the central metaphor of metamorphosis as figured in Ariel's song "Full Fathom Five" from The Tempest, as well as the importance of that play to Plath. Each of the chapters that follow focusses on a cluster of inter-related imagery through a discussion of four or five key poems. Chapter One examines Hughes's portrayal of himself as imprisoned by Plath's poetic portraits, and relates this to the recurring motifs of the snapshot and the Medusa myth. The poems discussed emphasize Hughes's consciousness of the metamorphic and "magical" relationship of art to life. The second chapter discusses Hughes's use of the myth of the labyrinth and the Minotaur, tracing it back to Plath's writings and reading, and pointing out its self-reflexivity: the labyrinth figures Hughes's own loss as well as the labyrinthine nature of writing. The third chapter considers the themes of possession and loss, and how they attach themselves to images of houses and jewels. Possession and loss tum, self-reflexively, upon issues of inheritance and remembrance, notably Hughes's inheritance of Plath's poetic legacy, and his remembrance of her and her poetry through his own poetry. The conclusion pursues connections between the observations made in the separate chapters, outlining the larger context out of which the poems emerge, and returning to the trope of metamorphosis as figured in "Full Fathom Five"
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Highman, Kathryn Barbara
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hughes, Ted, 1930-1998 Criticism and interpretation Hughes, Ted, 1930-1998 Birthday Letters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2193 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002235
- Description: This thesis focusses on the literary self-reflexivity of Birthday Letters, Ted Hughes's collection of poems addressed to his long-dead first wife, poet Sylvia Plath. By close attention to the language of select poems and a discussion of cross-referencing images and allusions across the volume, and intertextually, I argue that the collection is more self-consciously ordered and designed than the mainly biographical criticism the work has met with suggests. The thesis focusses on the poets' art rather than the biographical context of Birthday Letters, though it does not draw a neat distinction between their lives and their poetry - rather it demonstrates how Birthday Letters itself treats the relationship of art to life thematically. The introduction outlines the context of the volume's genesis and publication and the notions of poetry, myth and drama out of which Hughes works, and introduces the central metaphor of metamorphosis as figured in Ariel's song "Full Fathom Five" from The Tempest, as well as the importance of that play to Plath. Each of the chapters that follow focusses on a cluster of inter-related imagery through a discussion of four or five key poems. Chapter One examines Hughes's portrayal of himself as imprisoned by Plath's poetic portraits, and relates this to the recurring motifs of the snapshot and the Medusa myth. The poems discussed emphasize Hughes's consciousness of the metamorphic and "magical" relationship of art to life. The second chapter discusses Hughes's use of the myth of the labyrinth and the Minotaur, tracing it back to Plath's writings and reading, and pointing out its self-reflexivity: the labyrinth figures Hughes's own loss as well as the labyrinthine nature of writing. The third chapter considers the themes of possession and loss, and how they attach themselves to images of houses and jewels. Possession and loss tum, self-reflexively, upon issues of inheritance and remembrance, notably Hughes's inheritance of Plath's poetic legacy, and his remembrance of her and her poetry through his own poetry. The conclusion pursues connections between the observations made in the separate chapters, outlining the larger context out of which the poems emerge, and returning to the trope of metamorphosis as figured in "Full Fathom Five"
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A study of the criteria teachers use when selecting learning material
- Authors: Koch, Lynn
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Textbooks -- South Africa -- Evaluation Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003665
- Description: This study investigates the criteria teachers use when selecting and evaluating learning support material, in particular, English second language textbooks. The study seeks to determine what informs the criteria that teachers use for selection. The study is conducted against the backdrop of Curriculum 2005 (C2005) and outlines the C2005 revision process and the subsequent introduction of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). Through a series of focus group interviews, the researcher explores the criteria teachers use for evaluation. Many of the teachers in this study did not have clearly articulated criteria; rather, they drew on implicit criteria and mentioned favoured qualities or attributes that they looked for in a textbook. In addition, the teachers in the focus groups used criteria that had been ‘told’ rather than ‘owned’ and had not developed their own sets of criteria. This research concludes that teachers are caught between two conflicting sets of criteria: those of their pre-service training and those of the new curriculum, which is currently being mediated to them through brief orientations. Drawing on recent literature, the researcher argues that in order to shift deep-seated literacy practices, teacher training needs to be prolonged, in-depth and ongoing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Koch, Lynn
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Textbooks -- South Africa -- Evaluation Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003665
- Description: This study investigates the criteria teachers use when selecting and evaluating learning support material, in particular, English second language textbooks. The study seeks to determine what informs the criteria that teachers use for selection. The study is conducted against the backdrop of Curriculum 2005 (C2005) and outlines the C2005 revision process and the subsequent introduction of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). Through a series of focus group interviews, the researcher explores the criteria teachers use for evaluation. Many of the teachers in this study did not have clearly articulated criteria; rather, they drew on implicit criteria and mentioned favoured qualities or attributes that they looked for in a textbook. In addition, the teachers in the focus groups used criteria that had been ‘told’ rather than ‘owned’ and had not developed their own sets of criteria. This research concludes that teachers are caught between two conflicting sets of criteria: those of their pre-service training and those of the new curriculum, which is currently being mediated to them through brief orientations. Drawing on recent literature, the researcher argues that in order to shift deep-seated literacy practices, teacher training needs to be prolonged, in-depth and ongoing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A study to determine the degree to which the HIV/AIDS pandemic is being addressed at DaimlerCrysler, South Africa
- Authors: Strydom, Kariena
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Employment -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10882 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/186 , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Employment -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- East London
- Description: The aim of this research project was to determine the effectiveness of DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s efforts in addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The devastating impacts of the HIV/AIDS pandemic have already been felt at the workplace as without further successful interventions, HIV/AIDS mortality at DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA) was expected to peak in 2006. Investment in HIV/AIDS programmes has been proposed as good business practice. The DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme was thus established to limit the impact and consequences of the HIV/AIDS pandemic on its workers, their families and surrounding communities. The empirical survey, comprising a questionnaire, examined the attitude and perception of employees regarding the effectiveness of the DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme. The findings of the empirical survey corresponded with the findings of the literature survey in concluding that the DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme has been successful in effectively addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic. A few aspects of the Workplace Programme need attention and recommendations have been made in order to contribute to the lowering of HIV/AIDS prevalence rates at DaimlerChrysler South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Strydom, Kariena
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Employment -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10882 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/186 , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Employment -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- East London
- Description: The aim of this research project was to determine the effectiveness of DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s efforts in addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The devastating impacts of the HIV/AIDS pandemic have already been felt at the workplace as without further successful interventions, HIV/AIDS mortality at DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA) was expected to peak in 2006. Investment in HIV/AIDS programmes has been proposed as good business practice. The DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme was thus established to limit the impact and consequences of the HIV/AIDS pandemic on its workers, their families and surrounding communities. The empirical survey, comprising a questionnaire, examined the attitude and perception of employees regarding the effectiveness of the DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme. The findings of the empirical survey corresponded with the findings of the literature survey in concluding that the DCSA HIV/AIDS Workplace Programme has been successful in effectively addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic. A few aspects of the Workplace Programme need attention and recommendations have been made in order to contribute to the lowering of HIV/AIDS prevalence rates at DaimlerChrysler South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A Trypanosoma cruzi heat shock protein 40 is able to stimulate the adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis activity of heat shock protein 70 and can substitute for a yeast heat shock protein 40
- Edkins, Adrienne L, Ludewig, M H, Blatch, Gregory L
- Authors: Edkins, Adrienne L , Ludewig, M H , Blatch, Gregory L
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005794 , http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocel.2004.01.016
- Description: The process of assisted protein folding, characteristic of members of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and heat shock protein 40 (Hsp40) molecular chaperone families, is important for maintaining the structural integrity of cellular protein machinery under normal and stressful conditions. Hsp70 and Hsp40 cooperate to bind non-native protein conformations in a process of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-regulated assisted protein folding. We have analysed the molecular chaperone activity of the cytoplasmic inducible Hsp70 from Trypanosoma cruzi (TcHsp70) and its interactions with its potential partner Hsp40s (T. cruzi DnaJ protein 1 [Tcj1] and T. cruzi DnaJ protein 2 [Tcj2]). Histidine-tagged TcHsp70 (His-TcHsp70), Tcj1 (Tcj1-His) and Tcj2 (His-Tcj2) were over-produced in Escherichia coli and purified by nickel affinity chromatography. The in vitro basal specific ATP hydrolysis activity (ATPase activity) of His-TcHsp70 was determined as 40 nmol phosphate/min/mg protein, significantly higher than that reported for other Hsp70s. The basal specific ATPase activity was stimulated to a maximal level of 60 nmol phosphate/min/mg protein in the presence of His-Tcj2 and a model substrate, reduced carboxymethylated α-lactalbumin. In vivo complementation assays showed that Tcj2 was able to overcome the temperature sensitivity of the ydj1 mutant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain JJ160, suggesting that Tcj2 may be functionally equivalent to the yeast Hsp40 homologue (yeast DnaJ protein 1, Ydj1). These data suggest that Tcj2 is involved in cytoprotection in a similar fashion to Ydj1, and that TcHsp70 and Tcj2 may interact in a nucleotide-regulated process of chaperone-assisted protein folding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Edkins, Adrienne L , Ludewig, M H , Blatch, Gregory L
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005794 , http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocel.2004.01.016
- Description: The process of assisted protein folding, characteristic of members of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and heat shock protein 40 (Hsp40) molecular chaperone families, is important for maintaining the structural integrity of cellular protein machinery under normal and stressful conditions. Hsp70 and Hsp40 cooperate to bind non-native protein conformations in a process of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-regulated assisted protein folding. We have analysed the molecular chaperone activity of the cytoplasmic inducible Hsp70 from Trypanosoma cruzi (TcHsp70) and its interactions with its potential partner Hsp40s (T. cruzi DnaJ protein 1 [Tcj1] and T. cruzi DnaJ protein 2 [Tcj2]). Histidine-tagged TcHsp70 (His-TcHsp70), Tcj1 (Tcj1-His) and Tcj2 (His-Tcj2) were over-produced in Escherichia coli and purified by nickel affinity chromatography. The in vitro basal specific ATP hydrolysis activity (ATPase activity) of His-TcHsp70 was determined as 40 nmol phosphate/min/mg protein, significantly higher than that reported for other Hsp70s. The basal specific ATPase activity was stimulated to a maximal level of 60 nmol phosphate/min/mg protein in the presence of His-Tcj2 and a model substrate, reduced carboxymethylated α-lactalbumin. In vivo complementation assays showed that Tcj2 was able to overcome the temperature sensitivity of the ydj1 mutant Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain JJ160, suggesting that Tcj2 may be functionally equivalent to the yeast Hsp40 homologue (yeast DnaJ protein 1, Ydj1). These data suggest that Tcj2 is involved in cytoprotection in a similar fashion to Ydj1, and that TcHsp70 and Tcj2 may interact in a nucleotide-regulated process of chaperone-assisted protein folding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A Unified Architecture For Automatic Software Updates
- White, Dominic, Irwin, Barry V W
- Authors: White, Dominic , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428800 , vital:72537 , https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1type=pdfdoi=6e1cd9269a0c5532faf7a23f82995fcfa39e59bd
- Description: This paper attempts to address the issue of hardening the internal secu-rity of an organisation’s network by easing its patch management. Tradi-tionally security has been modeled on a" hard outer shell" approach, with a firewall protecting the otherwise vulnerable internal network. With the advent of worms using such techniques as social engineering to by-pass the organisational firewall and installing trojans, this approach is no longer sufficient. As a result of these new attacks, emphasis should be placed on improving the security of the internal network. Most research agrees that prompt patching of security vulnerabilities would significantly reduce the vulnerability of these machines. However, this requires sys-tem administrators not only to keep abreast of the flood of patches, but to ensure they are deployed to every machine, in what could be a very large network. These difficulties are worsened by problems the patches themselves often create. This is a difficult task and the failure of system administrators to perform it is echoed in the recent spate of worm at-tacks, with some taking advantage of vulnerabilities for which patches had been released up to six months earlier.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: White, Dominic , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428800 , vital:72537 , https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1type=pdfdoi=6e1cd9269a0c5532faf7a23f82995fcfa39e59bd
- Description: This paper attempts to address the issue of hardening the internal secu-rity of an organisation’s network by easing its patch management. Tradi-tionally security has been modeled on a" hard outer shell" approach, with a firewall protecting the otherwise vulnerable internal network. With the advent of worms using such techniques as social engineering to by-pass the organisational firewall and installing trojans, this approach is no longer sufficient. As a result of these new attacks, emphasis should be placed on improving the security of the internal network. Most research agrees that prompt patching of security vulnerabilities would significantly reduce the vulnerability of these machines. However, this requires sys-tem administrators not only to keep abreast of the flood of patches, but to ensure they are deployed to every machine, in what could be a very large network. These difficulties are worsened by problems the patches themselves often create. This is a difficult task and the failure of system administrators to perform it is echoed in the recent spate of worm at-tacks, with some taking advantage of vulnerabilities for which patches had been released up to six months earlier.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A unified patch management architecture
- White, Dominic, Irwin, Barry V W
- Authors: White, Dominic , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428312 , vital:72502 , https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/49200003/A_Unified_Patch_Management_Architecture20160928-23008-tl6zi6-libre.pdf?1475130102=andresponse-content-disposi-tion=inline;+filename=A_Unified_Patch_Management_Architecture.pdfandExpires=1714792674andSignature=JMVkFUbxZO5SzFTdhoeVBJk99hD~p5HQhSlLP0sgvU6p6hRRILz8dWwB9M1OPLXDnqYG3RLWyomwNweZtQpFuFwMgyx-EV~7TA0wkCAfzQr0N9YoOjbwcbHA5Fse1c3zFw7rtpwUYoEPyO17TWplLI7IkVArlotnG~3AWf1AKVmhWQ2gvfXAEi361XRwOFlC1d2XLiKQhVTafh7OrAuGt7EDUKuczw1K4u7YZxi5I7ty~704aTvILlKoVkBpVnYC1U3sVmj8BixFhY84MYD~YvM6ym3bVkitE1iDrpFjH40nR8QF5jpkOurB~aikFgNmB1WNXo8kHbyRAjciZQOYhOg__andKey-Pair-Id=APKAJLOHF5GGSLRBV4ZA
- Description: This paper attempts to address the issue of harden-ing the internal security of an organisation’s network by easing its patch management. A unified architecture to aid with this process is proposed, with the view towards the implementation of an open source, cross platform tool to solve this problem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: White, Dominic , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428312 , vital:72502 , https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/49200003/A_Unified_Patch_Management_Architecture20160928-23008-tl6zi6-libre.pdf?1475130102=andresponse-content-disposi-tion=inline;+filename=A_Unified_Patch_Management_Architecture.pdfandExpires=1714792674andSignature=JMVkFUbxZO5SzFTdhoeVBJk99hD~p5HQhSlLP0sgvU6p6hRRILz8dWwB9M1OPLXDnqYG3RLWyomwNweZtQpFuFwMgyx-EV~7TA0wkCAfzQr0N9YoOjbwcbHA5Fse1c3zFw7rtpwUYoEPyO17TWplLI7IkVArlotnG~3AWf1AKVmhWQ2gvfXAEi361XRwOFlC1d2XLiKQhVTafh7OrAuGt7EDUKuczw1K4u7YZxi5I7ty~704aTvILlKoVkBpVnYC1U3sVmj8BixFhY84MYD~YvM6ym3bVkitE1iDrpFjH40nR8QF5jpkOurB~aikFgNmB1WNXo8kHbyRAjciZQOYhOg__andKey-Pair-Id=APKAJLOHF5GGSLRBV4ZA
- Description: This paper attempts to address the issue of harden-ing the internal security of an organisation’s network by easing its patch management. A unified architecture to aid with this process is proposed, with the view towards the implementation of an open source, cross platform tool to solve this problem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
A yellowwood by any other name: molecular systematics and the taxonomy of Podocarpus and the Podocarpaceae in southern Africa
- Barker, Nigel P, Muller, E M, Mill, R R
- Authors: Barker, Nigel P , Muller, E M , Mill, R R
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004488
- Description: We briefly review the taxonomic history of the Podocarpaceae, with an emphasis on the recognition of numerous segregate genera out of Podocarpus sensu lato. Despite some controversy over the recognition of these genera, molecular data (DNA sequences) provide evidence that supports this taxonomy. The implications for African Podocarpaceae are discussed. In particular, molecular data support the recognition of Afrocarpus as distinct from Podocarpus. Additional taxonomic problems concerning the possible segregation of Podocarpus milanjianus from P. latifolius are addressed using DNA sequence data from the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Results of this are inconclusive, and suggest that alternative DNA-based evidence, such as from AFLPs or microsatellites, may be more informative in resolving such species complexes in African Podocarpus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Barker, Nigel P , Muller, E M , Mill, R R
- Date: 2004
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004488
- Description: We briefly review the taxonomic history of the Podocarpaceae, with an emphasis on the recognition of numerous segregate genera out of Podocarpus sensu lato. Despite some controversy over the recognition of these genera, molecular data (DNA sequences) provide evidence that supports this taxonomy. The implications for African Podocarpaceae are discussed. In particular, molecular data support the recognition of Afrocarpus as distinct from Podocarpus. Additional taxonomic problems concerning the possible segregation of Podocarpus milanjianus from P. latifolius are addressed using DNA sequence data from the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Results of this are inconclusive, and suggest that alternative DNA-based evidence, such as from AFLPs or microsatellites, may be more informative in resolving such species complexes in African Podocarpus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Abortion: social implications for nurses conducting termination of pregnancies in East London
- Authors: Naicker, Sumithrie Sasha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Abortion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abortion -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liberty of conscience -- South Africa -- Nurses , Emergency contraceptives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3396 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018254
- Description: Abortion is a highly controversial subject that has again come into the spotlight in South Africa due to the legalisation of abortion on demand in 1996. The results of various studies conducted since the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act 92 of 1996 was implemented, have indicated that abortion providers have met with a great deal of negativism and ostracism. This study focused on the implications of abortion work on nurses' social relationships with family, friends, colleagues and their communities. Recent literature was reviewed on the subject. The researcher however, found little information on this specific aspect of abortion. The study was conducted with abortion nurses from two government designated hospitals in the East London area responsible for abortion services. Thus, results cannot be generalised. This is a qualitative study that aimed at obtaining firsthand information regarding the personal experiences of abortion nurses. A non-probability sampling technique was used viz. criterion sampling. The Interview Guide Approach was used whereby in-depth, semi-structured interviewed were conducted with the guidance of a set of questions in the form of an Interview Schedule. The ten respondents were asked to share their recommendations as to possible measures that could address the challenges mentioned during their interviews. The researcher came to the conclusion that nurses' social relationships and lives are definitely impacted by abortion work. This impact is largely negative as the majority of respondents experience labelling, stigmatization and ostracism from family, friends, and their colleagues. Abortion nurses also experience a lack of social support, ambivalent feelings with regard to abortion, and a range of negative emotions ranging from stress and depression to frustration and anger. A number of repeat abortions are being done and there seems to be a general lack of contraception. The need exists for nurses to go to Value Clarification Workshops and also to get support in terms of compulsory, continuous, counselling. Separate wards should be set up for abortions whilst sex education should be included in school curriculums at both primary and secondary schools. Family planning and facts about the abortion process should also be included in these sex education programmes. Overall. the need exists for family planning initiatives to promote contraception and deter women from using abortion as a means of contraception. As this study reveals, conducting abortions has come at a great cost for the majority of nurses who lack social support and bear the brunt of anti-abortion sentiment expressed by significant others in their lives. The latter being the people who would normally be the one's they would turn to for help, counsel, support and assistance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Naicker, Sumithrie Sasha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Abortion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abortion -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liberty of conscience -- South Africa -- Nurses , Emergency contraceptives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3396 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018254
- Description: Abortion is a highly controversial subject that has again come into the spotlight in South Africa due to the legalisation of abortion on demand in 1996. The results of various studies conducted since the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act 92 of 1996 was implemented, have indicated that abortion providers have met with a great deal of negativism and ostracism. This study focused on the implications of abortion work on nurses' social relationships with family, friends, colleagues and their communities. Recent literature was reviewed on the subject. The researcher however, found little information on this specific aspect of abortion. The study was conducted with abortion nurses from two government designated hospitals in the East London area responsible for abortion services. Thus, results cannot be generalised. This is a qualitative study that aimed at obtaining firsthand information regarding the personal experiences of abortion nurses. A non-probability sampling technique was used viz. criterion sampling. The Interview Guide Approach was used whereby in-depth, semi-structured interviewed were conducted with the guidance of a set of questions in the form of an Interview Schedule. The ten respondents were asked to share their recommendations as to possible measures that could address the challenges mentioned during their interviews. The researcher came to the conclusion that nurses' social relationships and lives are definitely impacted by abortion work. This impact is largely negative as the majority of respondents experience labelling, stigmatization and ostracism from family, friends, and their colleagues. Abortion nurses also experience a lack of social support, ambivalent feelings with regard to abortion, and a range of negative emotions ranging from stress and depression to frustration and anger. A number of repeat abortions are being done and there seems to be a general lack of contraception. The need exists for nurses to go to Value Clarification Workshops and also to get support in terms of compulsory, continuous, counselling. Separate wards should be set up for abortions whilst sex education should be included in school curriculums at both primary and secondary schools. Family planning and facts about the abortion process should also be included in these sex education programmes. Overall. the need exists for family planning initiatives to promote contraception and deter women from using abortion as a means of contraception. As this study reveals, conducting abortions has come at a great cost for the majority of nurses who lack social support and bear the brunt of anti-abortion sentiment expressed by significant others in their lives. The latter being the people who would normally be the one's they would turn to for help, counsel, support and assistance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Additional morphological characteristics of Olive Thrushes and Karoo Thrushes
- Bonnevie, Bo T, Craig, Adrian J F K, Hulley, Patrick E
- Authors: Bonnevie, Bo T , Craig, Adrian J F K , Hulley, Patrick E
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447712 , vital:74669 , https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.2989/00306520409485415
- Description: A southern race of the Olive Thrush, Turdus olivaceus smithi Bonaparte, has recently been proposed as a full species, the Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi (Bowie et al. 2003). Some of the published information on the Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus olivaceus thus pertains to the Karoo Thrush (eg Kopij 2000), whereas other information deals specifically with the Olive Thrush (eg Winterbottom 1966, Bonnevie et al. 2003). We have ringed, recaptured and recovered both Olive and Karoo Thrushes in the Eastern Cape since 1986, and the two taxa are markedly different in this region. We describe some differences in appearance of the two populations from these data, and compare mass and wing length of living birds, as well as culmen and tarsus lengths of museum specimens from the East London Museum, South Africa. The collection sites of the museum specimens were mapped using ArcView 3.1 (ESRI 1996) together with the ringing sites (Figure 1). Areas of potential sympatry are Oudtshoorn (33 25’S, 22 11’E) and Patensie (33 45’S, 24 48’E).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Bonnevie, Bo T , Craig, Adrian J F K , Hulley, Patrick E
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447712 , vital:74669 , https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.2989/00306520409485415
- Description: A southern race of the Olive Thrush, Turdus olivaceus smithi Bonaparte, has recently been proposed as a full species, the Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi (Bowie et al. 2003). Some of the published information on the Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus olivaceus thus pertains to the Karoo Thrush (eg Kopij 2000), whereas other information deals specifically with the Olive Thrush (eg Winterbottom 1966, Bonnevie et al. 2003). We have ringed, recaptured and recovered both Olive and Karoo Thrushes in the Eastern Cape since 1986, and the two taxa are markedly different in this region. We describe some differences in appearance of the two populations from these data, and compare mass and wing length of living birds, as well as culmen and tarsus lengths of museum specimens from the East London Museum, South Africa. The collection sites of the museum specimens were mapped using ArcView 3.1 (ESRI 1996) together with the ringing sites (Figure 1). Areas of potential sympatry are Oudtshoorn (33 25’S, 22 11’E) and Patensie (33 45’S, 24 48’E).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Affirmative action in terms of the Empolyment Equity Act
- Authors: Mgcodo, Yolanda Thandile
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa. Employment Equity Act -- 1998
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/356 , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa. Employment Equity Act -- 1998
- Description: The term affirmative action originated in the United States some 30 years ago to describe a process of liberating minority groups. The objective of affirmative action within an organisational context, is to democratise the workplace by enabling members of previously disadvantaged groups to progress higher up the ranks of the corporate world. The affirmative action drive only took off in South Africa when it became part of the democratisation process and the focus was directed towards liberating the historically disadvantaged black majority. Prior to 1994, the reasons for implementing affirmative action programmes were largely political because of the race-based discrimination. Historically disadvantaged people were a minority in senior positions, the reason being that although the blacks were given a chance to compete with their white counterparts, due to their poor education standards and lack of experience only a few was appointed. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 aims to correct the demographic imbalances in the nation’s workforce by compelling employers to remove barriers to advancement of blacks, coloureds, Indians, women and disabled, and actively to advance them in all categories of employment by affirmative action. The Employment Equity Act consists of two main sections. The first replaces and refines the prohibition on unfair discrimination in item 2(1)(a) of Schedule 7 of the Labour Relations Act. The second aspect deals with imposing a duty to the employers to adopt affirmative action programmes. The Employment Equity Act places a positive obligation on all employers “to promote equal opportunity in the workplace by eliminating unfair discrimination in any employment policy or practice”. Where unfair discrimination is alleged, the onus of proving that discrimination is fair, or practice is not discriminatory at all, rests upon the employer. Disputes about unfair discrimination must be referred to the CCMA, and if not settled by conciliation, to the Labour Court, which has the power to order compensation or the payment iv of damages, or to direct the employer to take steps to prevent the same unfair discrimination or similar practice occurring in the future in respect of other employees. The second section of the Employment Equity Act deals with the imposition of the duty to designated employers to adopt affirmative action programmes. All employers with more than 50 employees, or which have annual turnovers equal to or above the annual turnovers for small businesses of their class, municipalities, organs of state, and those designated as such by collective agreement, must implement affirmative action measures for people from designated groups. This entails consulting with employers, conducting an analysis of employment policies, practices, procedures and the working environment to identify barriers, drawing up employment equity plans and reporting thereafter to the Director-General of the Department of Labour on progress made in implementing the plan. Any employee may bring alleged contraventions of the Act to the attention of the employer, another employee, or any trade union, workplace forum, labour inspector or the Director- General of the Employment Equity Commission. Labour inspectors appointed under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act may enter and inspect employer’s properties and documents, and are responsible for ensuring that the employer has consulted with employees as required, conducted the pre-equity plan analysis prepared its plan and is implementing it, submitted and published its reports, set up the necessary managerial infrastructure, and informed its employees of progress. Should employers be found not to have complied with these requirements, labour inspectors must request a written undertaking that they will do so. If an employer fails to give such an undertaking, the labour inspector can issue a compliance order setting out inter alia what steps the employer must take and when, and the maximum fine, if any, that can be imposed if the employer fails to comply. If the employer does not pay attention to the compliance order within the prescribed period, the Director-General may apply to have it made an order of the Labour Court. The Director-General may also conduct independent ad hoc reviews of selected designated employers. Failure by an employer to comply with the provision of the Act lead to the employer being liable for the contravention of the Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Mgcodo, Yolanda Thandile
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa. Employment Equity Act -- 1998
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/356 , Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa. Employment Equity Act -- 1998
- Description: The term affirmative action originated in the United States some 30 years ago to describe a process of liberating minority groups. The objective of affirmative action within an organisational context, is to democratise the workplace by enabling members of previously disadvantaged groups to progress higher up the ranks of the corporate world. The affirmative action drive only took off in South Africa when it became part of the democratisation process and the focus was directed towards liberating the historically disadvantaged black majority. Prior to 1994, the reasons for implementing affirmative action programmes were largely political because of the race-based discrimination. Historically disadvantaged people were a minority in senior positions, the reason being that although the blacks were given a chance to compete with their white counterparts, due to their poor education standards and lack of experience only a few was appointed. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 aims to correct the demographic imbalances in the nation’s workforce by compelling employers to remove barriers to advancement of blacks, coloureds, Indians, women and disabled, and actively to advance them in all categories of employment by affirmative action. The Employment Equity Act consists of two main sections. The first replaces and refines the prohibition on unfair discrimination in item 2(1)(a) of Schedule 7 of the Labour Relations Act. The second aspect deals with imposing a duty to the employers to adopt affirmative action programmes. The Employment Equity Act places a positive obligation on all employers “to promote equal opportunity in the workplace by eliminating unfair discrimination in any employment policy or practice”. Where unfair discrimination is alleged, the onus of proving that discrimination is fair, or practice is not discriminatory at all, rests upon the employer. Disputes about unfair discrimination must be referred to the CCMA, and if not settled by conciliation, to the Labour Court, which has the power to order compensation or the payment iv of damages, or to direct the employer to take steps to prevent the same unfair discrimination or similar practice occurring in the future in respect of other employees. The second section of the Employment Equity Act deals with the imposition of the duty to designated employers to adopt affirmative action programmes. All employers with more than 50 employees, or which have annual turnovers equal to or above the annual turnovers for small businesses of their class, municipalities, organs of state, and those designated as such by collective agreement, must implement affirmative action measures for people from designated groups. This entails consulting with employers, conducting an analysis of employment policies, practices, procedures and the working environment to identify barriers, drawing up employment equity plans and reporting thereafter to the Director-General of the Department of Labour on progress made in implementing the plan. Any employee may bring alleged contraventions of the Act to the attention of the employer, another employee, or any trade union, workplace forum, labour inspector or the Director- General of the Employment Equity Commission. Labour inspectors appointed under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act may enter and inspect employer’s properties and documents, and are responsible for ensuring that the employer has consulted with employees as required, conducted the pre-equity plan analysis prepared its plan and is implementing it, submitted and published its reports, set up the necessary managerial infrastructure, and informed its employees of progress. Should employers be found not to have complied with these requirements, labour inspectors must request a written undertaking that they will do so. If an employer fails to give such an undertaking, the labour inspector can issue a compliance order setting out inter alia what steps the employer must take and when, and the maximum fine, if any, that can be imposed if the employer fails to comply. If the employer does not pay attention to the compliance order within the prescribed period, the Director-General may apply to have it made an order of the Labour Court. The Director-General may also conduct independent ad hoc reviews of selected designated employers. Failure by an employer to comply with the provision of the Act lead to the employer being liable for the contravention of the Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Age, growth and yield-per-recruit analysis of ndunduma Diplotaxodon limnothrissa (Teleostei: Cichlidae), in the southeastern arm of Lake Malawi
- Authors: Kanyerere, Geoffrey Zantute
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Fishes -- Nyasa, Lake , Cichlids -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Growth -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Age -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishery resources -- Malawi , Fishery management -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5214 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005057 , Fishes -- Nyasa, Lake , Cichlids -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Growth -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Age -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishery resources -- Malawi , Fishery management -- Malawi
- Description: Diplotaxodon limnothrissa Turner (1995) is a widely distributed species occurring throughout Lake Malawi, extending from the surface to a depth of at least 220m. It is probably the most abundant cichlid in the lake with biomass estimates of around 87 000 tonnes in the pelagic zone alone. The species is exploited commercially in the southern part of the lake but since its inception the fishery has never been assessed. As such this study investigates some aspects of age and growth of the species besides applying a yield-per-recruit analysis to assess the status of the fishery. Analysis of sectioned sagittal otoliths revealed that D. limnothrissa is fast growing and relatively long-lived species, attaining ages in excess of 10 years. Growth in length was rapid in immature fish, with fish attaining almost half of their maximum size within their first year. Le ngth-at-age was described by the von Bertalanffy growth model with combined-sex growth described as Lt = 211.21(1-exp(- 0.24(t+1.36))) mm TL. Total, natural and fishing mortalities were estimated at 0.76 yr⁻¹, 0.31 yr⁻¹ and 0.45 yr⁻¹ respectively. Per-recruit analysis indicated that the D. limnothrissa stock in the southeast arm of the lake is fully exploited as indicated by the current spawner biomass-per-recruit ratios of 31-55% (SB/R)F=0. Modelling indicated that the current age-at-capture (2.67 years) is lower than the age at which yield is optimised (> 5 years) based on the F₀·₁ harvesting strategy. It is, therefore, recommended that the age-at-capture should be increased from 2.67 to 5 years to optimise yield.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Kanyerere, Geoffrey Zantute
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Fishes -- Nyasa, Lake , Cichlids -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Growth -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Age -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishery resources -- Malawi , Fishery management -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5214 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005057 , Fishes -- Nyasa, Lake , Cichlids -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Growth -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishes -- Age -- Nyasa, Lake , Fishery resources -- Malawi , Fishery management -- Malawi
- Description: Diplotaxodon limnothrissa Turner (1995) is a widely distributed species occurring throughout Lake Malawi, extending from the surface to a depth of at least 220m. It is probably the most abundant cichlid in the lake with biomass estimates of around 87 000 tonnes in the pelagic zone alone. The species is exploited commercially in the southern part of the lake but since its inception the fishery has never been assessed. As such this study investigates some aspects of age and growth of the species besides applying a yield-per-recruit analysis to assess the status of the fishery. Analysis of sectioned sagittal otoliths revealed that D. limnothrissa is fast growing and relatively long-lived species, attaining ages in excess of 10 years. Growth in length was rapid in immature fish, with fish attaining almost half of their maximum size within their first year. Le ngth-at-age was described by the von Bertalanffy growth model with combined-sex growth described as Lt = 211.21(1-exp(- 0.24(t+1.36))) mm TL. Total, natural and fishing mortalities were estimated at 0.76 yr⁻¹, 0.31 yr⁻¹ and 0.45 yr⁻¹ respectively. Per-recruit analysis indicated that the D. limnothrissa stock in the southeast arm of the lake is fully exploited as indicated by the current spawner biomass-per-recruit ratios of 31-55% (SB/R)F=0. Modelling indicated that the current age-at-capture (2.67 years) is lower than the age at which yield is optimised (> 5 years) based on the F₀·₁ harvesting strategy. It is, therefore, recommended that the age-at-capture should be increased from 2.67 to 5 years to optimise yield.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Algorithms for the solution of the quadratic programming problem
- Authors: Vankova, Martina
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Quadratic programming , Nonlinear programming , Algorithms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11086 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/348 , Quadratic programming , Nonlinear programming , Algorithms
- Description: The purpose of this dissertation was to provide a review of the theory of Optimization, in particular quadratic programming, and the algorithms suitable for solving both convex and non-convex quadratic programming problems. Optimization problems arise in a wide variety of fields and many can be effectively modeled with linear equations. However, there are problems for which linear models are not sufficient thus creating a need for non-linear systems. This dissertation includes a literature study of the formal theory necessary for understanding optimization and an investigation of the algorithms available for solving a special class of the non-linear programming problem, namely the quadratic programming problem. It was not the intention of this dissertation to discuss all possible algorithms for solving the quadratic programming problem, therefore certain algorithms for convex and non-convex quadratic programming problems were selected for a detailed discussion in the dissertation. Some of the algorithms were selected arbitrarily, because limited information was available comparing the efficiency of the various algorithms. Algorithms available for solving general non-linear programming problems were also included and briefly discussed as they can be used to solve quadratic programming problems. A number of algorithms were then selected for evaluation, depending on the frequency of use in practice and the availability of software implementing these algorithms. The evaluation included a theoretical and quantitative comparison of the algorithms. The quantitative results were analyzed and discussed and it was shown that the results supported the theoretical comparison. It was also shown that it is difficult to conclude that one algorithm is better than another as the efficiency of an algorithm greatly depends on the size of the problem, the complexity of an algorithm and many other implementation issues. Optimization problems arise continuously in a wide range of fields and thus create the need for effective methods of solving them. This dissertation provides the fundamental theory necessary for the understanding of optimization problems, with particular reference to quadratic programming problems and the algorithms that solve such problems. Keywords: Quadratic Programming, Quadratic Programming Algorithms, Optimization, Non-linear Programming, Convex, Non-convex.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Vankova, Martina
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Quadratic programming , Nonlinear programming , Algorithms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11086 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/348 , Quadratic programming , Nonlinear programming , Algorithms
- Description: The purpose of this dissertation was to provide a review of the theory of Optimization, in particular quadratic programming, and the algorithms suitable for solving both convex and non-convex quadratic programming problems. Optimization problems arise in a wide variety of fields and many can be effectively modeled with linear equations. However, there are problems for which linear models are not sufficient thus creating a need for non-linear systems. This dissertation includes a literature study of the formal theory necessary for understanding optimization and an investigation of the algorithms available for solving a special class of the non-linear programming problem, namely the quadratic programming problem. It was not the intention of this dissertation to discuss all possible algorithms for solving the quadratic programming problem, therefore certain algorithms for convex and non-convex quadratic programming problems were selected for a detailed discussion in the dissertation. Some of the algorithms were selected arbitrarily, because limited information was available comparing the efficiency of the various algorithms. Algorithms available for solving general non-linear programming problems were also included and briefly discussed as they can be used to solve quadratic programming problems. A number of algorithms were then selected for evaluation, depending on the frequency of use in practice and the availability of software implementing these algorithms. The evaluation included a theoretical and quantitative comparison of the algorithms. The quantitative results were analyzed and discussed and it was shown that the results supported the theoretical comparison. It was also shown that it is difficult to conclude that one algorithm is better than another as the efficiency of an algorithm greatly depends on the size of the problem, the complexity of an algorithm and many other implementation issues. Optimization problems arise continuously in a wide range of fields and thus create the need for effective methods of solving them. This dissertation provides the fundamental theory necessary for the understanding of optimization problems, with particular reference to quadratic programming problems and the algorithms that solve such problems. Keywords: Quadratic Programming, Quadratic Programming Algorithms, Optimization, Non-linear Programming, Convex, Non-convex.
- 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
An analysis of customer service management strategies in an information technology organisation
- Authors: Majavu, Nyanisa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Information technology -- South Africa , Computer industry -- Customer services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/143 , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer industry -- Customer services -- South Africa
- Description: This study was evoked by a discussion with one of Dimension Data’s Service Management Executives. The discussion was centred around customer service management focus and on how to bring all stakeholders within the organisation to share this common goal. The critical aspect does not merely mean improving quality, but to exceed customers’ expectations according to Manning (1989:63). Quality and customer service have become a way of life rather than, short-term projects that can begin and end at will emphasises Manning (1989:91). There is a myriad of evidence to suggest that services are becoming critical to economic growth in most developing economies, one of such is South Africa. Thus South African industry requires substantial reflection both from the government and private sector regarding issues of service. Organisations therefore need to understand products and services as complex clusters of value adding satisfactions. The main problem of this research is as follows: What customer service management strategies are at the disposal of an information technology organisation? The main problem will be solved in the form of three sub-problems, by identifying what customer service management is. Secondly, depicting a customer service management model and lastly recognising customer service strategies that exist within Dimension Data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Majavu, Nyanisa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Information technology -- South Africa , Computer industry -- Customer services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/143 , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer industry -- Customer services -- South Africa
- Description: This study was evoked by a discussion with one of Dimension Data’s Service Management Executives. The discussion was centred around customer service management focus and on how to bring all stakeholders within the organisation to share this common goal. The critical aspect does not merely mean improving quality, but to exceed customers’ expectations according to Manning (1989:63). Quality and customer service have become a way of life rather than, short-term projects that can begin and end at will emphasises Manning (1989:91). There is a myriad of evidence to suggest that services are becoming critical to economic growth in most developing economies, one of such is South Africa. Thus South African industry requires substantial reflection both from the government and private sector regarding issues of service. Organisations therefore need to understand products and services as complex clusters of value adding satisfactions. The main problem of this research is as follows: What customer service management strategies are at the disposal of an information technology organisation? The main problem will be solved in the form of three sub-problems, by identifying what customer service management is. Secondly, depicting a customer service management model and lastly recognising customer service strategies that exist within Dimension Data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An analysis of group adverse impact in selection strategies of a communications company
- Authors: Bradfield, Claire Caroline
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Telecommunication -- Employees -- Selection and appointment -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10993 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/361 , Telecommunication -- Employees -- Selection and appointment -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Description: An overview of the literature indicates that there is a real and pressing need to explore the concept of adverse impact in more detail. The Employment Equity Act of 1998 prioritises the issue of group representivity in staff selection and although there are merits in enforcing an Affirmative Action policy, an objective assessment of the inherent requirements of job applicants is still a constitutional and procedural outcome. There is no simple mechanism that can be used to determine the manifestation of adverse impact. However, evidence thereof can be most useful in securing fairness in selection and employment decisions. There is a distinct need to examine the matter of adverse impact and its implications in the South African context. South Africa is confronted with a labour force that is growing dramatically and changing significantly. The demographic trends in our dynamically changing labour markets are likely to amplify skill and ability differences between the resulting contradictory goals of equal opportunity based on individual merit and equal employment results for subgroups of populations. Three selection strategies of a communications company were used as a basis for the assessment of adverse impact. The total population of the Call Centre selection strategy was 150. Seven instruments and measures were utilised in the study, namely, a job analysis, pre-screening exercise, psychometric ability tests, role-play simulation, structured interview, job compatibility questionnaire and a performance evaluation. The total population of the Operator Services selection strategy was 139. Five psychometric instruments were utilised in the study. The total population of the Female Leadership Development Programme selection strategy was 471. Three psychometric instruments were utilised in the study. The Adverse Impact Model was applied to each of the aforementioned strategies. In terms of the definition, adverse impact exists if the selection ratio associated with a particular passing score on a test for one sub-group of job applicants is less than 4/5th’s or 80% of the selection ration for the largest sub-group of applicants. 13 The results of the study indicate that adverse impact occurred in the following instances. In the Call Centre selection strategy, there was evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis in the ability testing stage. There was also evidence of adverse impact in the gender analysis during this stage. There was no evidence of adverse impact in either the racial or gender analyses during the interview stage. There was no evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis during the appointment stage. There was however evidence of adverse impact in the gender analysis during the appointment stage. The Female Leadership Development Programme selection strategy revealed evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis during the appointment stage. The Operator Services selection strategy revealed an adverse impact in both the racial and gender analyses during the testing stage. The issue of adverse impact is obviously controversial. However, data obtained from this process will provide for informative analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Bradfield, Claire Caroline
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Telecommunication -- Employees -- Selection and appointment -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10993 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/361 , Telecommunication -- Employees -- Selection and appointment -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Description: An overview of the literature indicates that there is a real and pressing need to explore the concept of adverse impact in more detail. The Employment Equity Act of 1998 prioritises the issue of group representivity in staff selection and although there are merits in enforcing an Affirmative Action policy, an objective assessment of the inherent requirements of job applicants is still a constitutional and procedural outcome. There is no simple mechanism that can be used to determine the manifestation of adverse impact. However, evidence thereof can be most useful in securing fairness in selection and employment decisions. There is a distinct need to examine the matter of adverse impact and its implications in the South African context. South Africa is confronted with a labour force that is growing dramatically and changing significantly. The demographic trends in our dynamically changing labour markets are likely to amplify skill and ability differences between the resulting contradictory goals of equal opportunity based on individual merit and equal employment results for subgroups of populations. Three selection strategies of a communications company were used as a basis for the assessment of adverse impact. The total population of the Call Centre selection strategy was 150. Seven instruments and measures were utilised in the study, namely, a job analysis, pre-screening exercise, psychometric ability tests, role-play simulation, structured interview, job compatibility questionnaire and a performance evaluation. The total population of the Operator Services selection strategy was 139. Five psychometric instruments were utilised in the study. The total population of the Female Leadership Development Programme selection strategy was 471. Three psychometric instruments were utilised in the study. The Adverse Impact Model was applied to each of the aforementioned strategies. In terms of the definition, adverse impact exists if the selection ratio associated with a particular passing score on a test for one sub-group of job applicants is less than 4/5th’s or 80% of the selection ration for the largest sub-group of applicants. 13 The results of the study indicate that adverse impact occurred in the following instances. In the Call Centre selection strategy, there was evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis in the ability testing stage. There was also evidence of adverse impact in the gender analysis during this stage. There was no evidence of adverse impact in either the racial or gender analyses during the interview stage. There was no evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis during the appointment stage. There was however evidence of adverse impact in the gender analysis during the appointment stage. The Female Leadership Development Programme selection strategy revealed evidence of adverse impact in the racial analysis during the appointment stage. The Operator Services selection strategy revealed an adverse impact in both the racial and gender analyses during the testing stage. The issue of adverse impact is obviously controversial. However, data obtained from this process will provide for informative analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004