A mineralogical, geochemical and metallogenic study of unusual Mn/Na/Ba assemblages at the footwall of conglomeratic iron-ore at farm Langverwacht, Northern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Bursey, James Rodney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Conglomerate -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Petrology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Manganese -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sodium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Barium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62516 , vital:28201
- Description: The Postmasburg Manganese Field (PMF), located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, plays host to significant deposits of iron and manganese that have been utilized since their discovery in 1922 by Captain L.T. Shone. Further afield, lies the massive high-grade manganese deposit of the Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), which drew attention away from the PMF after its discovery. These deposits are not limited to iron and manganese ore, but contain significant assemblages of alkali-rich rocks - which is the focus of this study. The existence of alkali-rich assemblages beneath conglomeratic iron-ore on farm Langwervacht, has come under investigation in this study, and in particular, the enrichment of these rocks in Ba, Na and Mn. Petrographic analysis of the clast-supported conglomerate unit (ore-zone), has uncovered the presence of vugs (up to 8mm across) which contain barite, K-feldspar and fluorapatite. In addition to this, the ore-zone of one of the three boreholes contains late carbonate veins (kutnohorite), which travel along Fe-clast boundaries, and exploit clast-fractures and areas of weakness. Further down, within the ‘enriched-zone’ of alkalis, the mineralogy is more diverse - containing elevated concentrations of Ba, Na and Mn. Seventeen distinct minerals containing these three key elements have been identified - along with one solid-solution series in the form of hollandite-coronadite. The existence of minerals such as natrolite, aegirine, albite, banalsite, barite, serandite, celsian and hollandite-coronadite are indicative of hydrothermal activity having influenced these rocks. Bulk-geochemistry was used to compare the major and trace elements of each borehole and the associated units. Both the trace elements and the REE’s from the ore-zone are enriched by an average of 5-10x relative to the BIF standard used - which immediately suggests an influx of elements. Compared to PAAS (Post Archaean Australian Shales), the ore-zone REE’s are slightly depleted, but more importantly the profiles are very similar to that of the Mapedi shales achieved in previous studies. This result points towards a strong shale influence in the ore-zone protolith. Expectedly, many of the enriched-zone trace elements and REE’s show far greater enrichment than what is observed in the ore-zone. Trace and Rare Earth Element profiles between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone are, however, generally correlative, with profiles reflecting similar enrichments and depletions for a given element - even within different rock units. This suggests that the hydrothermal fluid has moved in a general upward direction, reacting with host-rock units, and relinquishing elements carried in solution - wherever conditions have been favourable for the accommodation of these elements. This study has shed light on the relationship between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone, and results suggest that the process of alkali enrichment is not directly related to the process of upgrading of the iron ores. This is due to the extent of the alkali-enrichment below the ore-zone, as well as enrichment factors in some trace elements being superior to that of Fe2O3 in the ore- zone. Hence, both of these zones have both been affected by a later hydrothermal fluid. The source of the fluid is likely a mature basinal brine, of oxidized, alkaline nature - which leached elements (Ba, K, Na, Pb, Ca) from older rocks, and carried them in solution. On a local-scale, this fluid has exploited areas of weakness in the form of fractures, less consolidated conglomeratic material and crosscutting veins. Manganese and iron has been remobilized on a local scale - producing secondary textures and partitioning into phases such as Mn-rich calcite and serandite. Comparisons to other studies in the PMF and KMF have revealed very similar alkali-rich assemblages, bearing many of the same minerals observed in this study - even within more manganiferous deposits. These findings have led to suggestions of a possible regional-scale hydrothermal overprint, which may have imparted a similar geochemical signal over the entire region - with the assistance of faults and unconformities. Of course, proving this is no mean feat, but current work on the source of barium in barite, using Sr isotopes from samples across the region may shed light on the source of at least one key element of these deposits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Bursey, James Rodney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Conglomerate -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Petrology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Manganese -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sodium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Barium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62516 , vital:28201
- Description: The Postmasburg Manganese Field (PMF), located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, plays host to significant deposits of iron and manganese that have been utilized since their discovery in 1922 by Captain L.T. Shone. Further afield, lies the massive high-grade manganese deposit of the Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), which drew attention away from the PMF after its discovery. These deposits are not limited to iron and manganese ore, but contain significant assemblages of alkali-rich rocks - which is the focus of this study. The existence of alkali-rich assemblages beneath conglomeratic iron-ore on farm Langwervacht, has come under investigation in this study, and in particular, the enrichment of these rocks in Ba, Na and Mn. Petrographic analysis of the clast-supported conglomerate unit (ore-zone), has uncovered the presence of vugs (up to 8mm across) which contain barite, K-feldspar and fluorapatite. In addition to this, the ore-zone of one of the three boreholes contains late carbonate veins (kutnohorite), which travel along Fe-clast boundaries, and exploit clast-fractures and areas of weakness. Further down, within the ‘enriched-zone’ of alkalis, the mineralogy is more diverse - containing elevated concentrations of Ba, Na and Mn. Seventeen distinct minerals containing these three key elements have been identified - along with one solid-solution series in the form of hollandite-coronadite. The existence of minerals such as natrolite, aegirine, albite, banalsite, barite, serandite, celsian and hollandite-coronadite are indicative of hydrothermal activity having influenced these rocks. Bulk-geochemistry was used to compare the major and trace elements of each borehole and the associated units. Both the trace elements and the REE’s from the ore-zone are enriched by an average of 5-10x relative to the BIF standard used - which immediately suggests an influx of elements. Compared to PAAS (Post Archaean Australian Shales), the ore-zone REE’s are slightly depleted, but more importantly the profiles are very similar to that of the Mapedi shales achieved in previous studies. This result points towards a strong shale influence in the ore-zone protolith. Expectedly, many of the enriched-zone trace elements and REE’s show far greater enrichment than what is observed in the ore-zone. Trace and Rare Earth Element profiles between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone are, however, generally correlative, with profiles reflecting similar enrichments and depletions for a given element - even within different rock units. This suggests that the hydrothermal fluid has moved in a general upward direction, reacting with host-rock units, and relinquishing elements carried in solution - wherever conditions have been favourable for the accommodation of these elements. This study has shed light on the relationship between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone, and results suggest that the process of alkali enrichment is not directly related to the process of upgrading of the iron ores. This is due to the extent of the alkali-enrichment below the ore-zone, as well as enrichment factors in some trace elements being superior to that of Fe2O3 in the ore- zone. Hence, both of these zones have both been affected by a later hydrothermal fluid. The source of the fluid is likely a mature basinal brine, of oxidized, alkaline nature - which leached elements (Ba, K, Na, Pb, Ca) from older rocks, and carried them in solution. On a local-scale, this fluid has exploited areas of weakness in the form of fractures, less consolidated conglomeratic material and crosscutting veins. Manganese and iron has been remobilized on a local scale - producing secondary textures and partitioning into phases such as Mn-rich calcite and serandite. Comparisons to other studies in the PMF and KMF have revealed very similar alkali-rich assemblages, bearing many of the same minerals observed in this study - even within more manganiferous deposits. These findings have led to suggestions of a possible regional-scale hydrothermal overprint, which may have imparted a similar geochemical signal over the entire region - with the assistance of faults and unconformities. Of course, proving this is no mean feat, but current work on the source of barium in barite, using Sr isotopes from samples across the region may shed light on the source of at least one key element of these deposits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A missing link in the estuarine nitrogen cycle?: coupled nitrification-denitrification mediated by suspended particulate matter
- Zhu, Weijing, Wang, Cheng, Hill, Jaclyn M, He, Yangyang, Tao, Bangyi, Mao, Zhihua, Wu, Weixiang
- Authors: Zhu, Weijing , Wang, Cheng , Hill, Jaclyn M , He, Yangyang , Tao, Bangyi , Mao, Zhihua , Wu, Weixiang
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68368 , vital:29244 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1038/s41598-018-20688-4
- Description: In estuarine and coastal ecosystems, the majority of previous studies have considered coupled nitrification-denitrification (CND) processes to be exclusively sediment based, with little focus onsuspended particulate matter (SPM) in the water column. Here, we present evidence of CND processes in the water column of Hangzhou Bay, one of the largest macrotidal embayments in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zhu, Weijing , Wang, Cheng , Hill, Jaclyn M , He, Yangyang , Tao, Bangyi , Mao, Zhihua , Wu, Weixiang
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68368 , vital:29244 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1038/s41598-018-20688-4
- Description: In estuarine and coastal ecosystems, the majority of previous studies have considered coupled nitrification-denitrification (CND) processes to be exclusively sediment based, with little focus onsuspended particulate matter (SPM) in the water column. Here, we present evidence of CND processes in the water column of Hangzhou Bay, one of the largest macrotidal embayments in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model for retention-to-graduation of undergraduate nursing students at universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nkutu, Nonyaniso Trustina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Universities and colleges--South Africa--Eastern Cape College students--South Africa--Eastern Cape Nursing students--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15946 , vital:40566
- Description: The retention of nursing students in the undergraduate programme in universities is a global concern for the health care system, because of the low rate of nurse graduates. The strategies for retention for nursing students in undergraduate programmes in South African universities arguably have limited success in curbing failure to graduate. The failure to graduate rate of nursing students is a global phenomenon, where for example in 2009, the rate of failure to graduate in the United States of America was 30%. However, countries like Jamaica and Australia reported good retention rates through the use of various successful initiatives, such as student bursaries, student loans, scholarships and academic assistance. Previous studies in South Africa have showed that the incidence of nursing students’ failure to graduate rate is an ongoing challenge since the 1960s. Further, research has found that, despite the high annual enrolment of students into universities, only few nursing students graduate on time, while others fail to graduate. This phenomenon affects the rendering and quality of services to patients and clients in the health care facilities. When students fail to graduate from the programme, patients and clients get deprived of the services they would have got, had the students completed and graduated from the programme. On the other hand, the students themselves get frustrated due to the failure to complete the programme. Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) also share in the disappointment and the loss of even one student who fails to graduate, because it is their obligation to graduate more nurses. Previous studies have sought to understand why students fail to complete their studies, and many factors have been identified. Therefore, there is need to further understand the factors associated with nursing student failure to complete their programme in different contexts such as South Africa. It is for this reason that the aim of this study was to develop a model for retention of nursing students in order to facilitate progression towards graduation in the undergraduate programme at the universities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study endeavoured to answer the following research questions: What are the factors associated with retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What are the strategies to enhance retention to graduation of nursing students in universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What model could be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What guidelines should be formulated for the implementation of the model for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? To answer these questions, quantitative research approach with a descriptive, contextual and theory generation design was used. The study was conducted in four phases. Phase 1 used deductive concept identification to describe factors and strategies to enhance retention –to-graduation of nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. Phase 2 used inductive concept analysis for the development of a conceptual framework. In phase 3 reasoning strategies (inductive, deductive, derivation, synthesis and analysis) informed by data as well as the literature were used in order to generate a theory for model development. In phase 4, the guidelines for developing a preliminary model were formulated for theory implementation. The study setting was in the Eastern Cape universities, within faculties of Health Sciences. The researcher adapted Jeffreys’ Nursing Undergraduate Retention and Success (NURS) 2012 model as a data collecting instrument, which was pilot tested for reliability and validity. Permission to utilize the model was obtained. The targeted population was full time nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. A multistage stratified random sample from first year to fourth year level was used. The inclusion criterion was based on one being full time nursing student, aged between 18 and 50 years and from the Eastern Cape Province universities. Student nurses in colleges and part-time students were excluded from this study. The study adhered to research ethics and procedures by for example obtaining ethical clearance from the ethics committee of the University of Fort Hare and the other two selected universities. The ethical components were met: The Ethical clearance based on the following aspects: written consent to undertake the study; approval from the two of the selected universities; and permission to conduct a pilot study from the University of Fort Hare. Permission was also sought and obtained from Quality Assurance Unit in the Eastern Cape Province, in Bisho. The principle of beneficence; respect for human dignity; the right to self-determination based on the ethical principle of respect for persons; the principle of self-determination; the principle of justice, the right to fair treatment, the right to privacy, the right to informed consent were all considered. Data analysis was done through Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) version 9.3 for quantitative data and Atlas Ti was used to analyse and quantify the open-ended section of the questionnaire. The results showed multidimensional factors associated with retention-to-graduation of the nursing students in the undergraduate programme. Strategies to enhance retention –to graduation were also indicated although there was no one perfect example since they were not evaluated for effectiveness. A retention-to-graduation model for nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme was developed based on the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nkutu, Nonyaniso Trustina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Universities and colleges--South Africa--Eastern Cape College students--South Africa--Eastern Cape Nursing students--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15946 , vital:40566
- Description: The retention of nursing students in the undergraduate programme in universities is a global concern for the health care system, because of the low rate of nurse graduates. The strategies for retention for nursing students in undergraduate programmes in South African universities arguably have limited success in curbing failure to graduate. The failure to graduate rate of nursing students is a global phenomenon, where for example in 2009, the rate of failure to graduate in the United States of America was 30%. However, countries like Jamaica and Australia reported good retention rates through the use of various successful initiatives, such as student bursaries, student loans, scholarships and academic assistance. Previous studies in South Africa have showed that the incidence of nursing students’ failure to graduate rate is an ongoing challenge since the 1960s. Further, research has found that, despite the high annual enrolment of students into universities, only few nursing students graduate on time, while others fail to graduate. This phenomenon affects the rendering and quality of services to patients and clients in the health care facilities. When students fail to graduate from the programme, patients and clients get deprived of the services they would have got, had the students completed and graduated from the programme. On the other hand, the students themselves get frustrated due to the failure to complete the programme. Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) also share in the disappointment and the loss of even one student who fails to graduate, because it is their obligation to graduate more nurses. Previous studies have sought to understand why students fail to complete their studies, and many factors have been identified. Therefore, there is need to further understand the factors associated with nursing student failure to complete their programme in different contexts such as South Africa. It is for this reason that the aim of this study was to develop a model for retention of nursing students in order to facilitate progression towards graduation in the undergraduate programme at the universities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study endeavoured to answer the following research questions: What are the factors associated with retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What are the strategies to enhance retention to graduation of nursing students in universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What model could be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What guidelines should be formulated for the implementation of the model for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? To answer these questions, quantitative research approach with a descriptive, contextual and theory generation design was used. The study was conducted in four phases. Phase 1 used deductive concept identification to describe factors and strategies to enhance retention –to-graduation of nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. Phase 2 used inductive concept analysis for the development of a conceptual framework. In phase 3 reasoning strategies (inductive, deductive, derivation, synthesis and analysis) informed by data as well as the literature were used in order to generate a theory for model development. In phase 4, the guidelines for developing a preliminary model were formulated for theory implementation. The study setting was in the Eastern Cape universities, within faculties of Health Sciences. The researcher adapted Jeffreys’ Nursing Undergraduate Retention and Success (NURS) 2012 model as a data collecting instrument, which was pilot tested for reliability and validity. Permission to utilize the model was obtained. The targeted population was full time nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. A multistage stratified random sample from first year to fourth year level was used. The inclusion criterion was based on one being full time nursing student, aged between 18 and 50 years and from the Eastern Cape Province universities. Student nurses in colleges and part-time students were excluded from this study. The study adhered to research ethics and procedures by for example obtaining ethical clearance from the ethics committee of the University of Fort Hare and the other two selected universities. The ethical components were met: The Ethical clearance based on the following aspects: written consent to undertake the study; approval from the two of the selected universities; and permission to conduct a pilot study from the University of Fort Hare. Permission was also sought and obtained from Quality Assurance Unit in the Eastern Cape Province, in Bisho. The principle of beneficence; respect for human dignity; the right to self-determination based on the ethical principle of respect for persons; the principle of self-determination; the principle of justice, the right to fair treatment, the right to privacy, the right to informed consent were all considered. Data analysis was done through Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) version 9.3 for quantitative data and Atlas Ti was used to analyse and quantify the open-ended section of the questionnaire. The results showed multidimensional factors associated with retention-to-graduation of the nursing students in the undergraduate programme. Strategies to enhance retention –to graduation were also indicated although there was no one perfect example since they were not evaluated for effectiveness. A retention-to-graduation model for nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme was developed based on the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model for smart factories in the automotive sector
- Authors: Leo, Jo-Anne Ronell
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Labor supply -- Effect of technological innovations on Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22531 , vital:29997
- Description: The manufacturing industry is on the brink of transformation, with smart factories and digitalisation at the forefront. New challenges such as globalisation, cost pressure and consumer demands are imminent in the current environment. In order to overcome these challenges, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0 has emerged. Industry 4.0 promotes the computerisation of manufacturing facilities and emphasises an end-to-end digitalisation of physical resources and integration of processes through the entire value chain. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Manufacturing processes are driven by technologies such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. Organisations consider automation and technology as strategic business tools which are used to increase short and long term profits and realise operating objectives. In contrast, the implementation of automation and technology in the workplace raises labour concerns, fear of layoffs and redundancies among the workforce. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal thereof. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the automotive industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is an quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing the attitudes towards the acceptance of technology within the OEM. To summarise the data into a more condensed form which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data, descriptive statistics were used. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence the perception about ease of use and usefulness, which then in turn influences the attitude and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories within the OEM: Skills and Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function in how to improve the implementation of smart factories. This research suggested improvements for the automotive OEM based on the statistical analysis of the survey results. Inconclusive results were indicated on three variables and these should be improved, namely, Organisational Culture, Job Security and Security and International / National Standards. Two sub-groups were defined by different job levels and different perceptions were found concerning the factors that were measured. People at different job levels in the OEM perceived medium to large significant differences in all the factors comprising the proposed model of the Attitude towards a Smart Factory. The smart factory model developed in this study specified the factors which influence the Attitude towards a Smart Factory within the automotive sector and the effect these factors have on technology acceptance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Leo, Jo-Anne Ronell
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Labor supply -- Effect of technological innovations on Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22531 , vital:29997
- Description: The manufacturing industry is on the brink of transformation, with smart factories and digitalisation at the forefront. New challenges such as globalisation, cost pressure and consumer demands are imminent in the current environment. In order to overcome these challenges, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0 has emerged. Industry 4.0 promotes the computerisation of manufacturing facilities and emphasises an end-to-end digitalisation of physical resources and integration of processes through the entire value chain. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Manufacturing processes are driven by technologies such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. Organisations consider automation and technology as strategic business tools which are used to increase short and long term profits and realise operating objectives. In contrast, the implementation of automation and technology in the workplace raises labour concerns, fear of layoffs and redundancies among the workforce. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal thereof. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the automotive industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is an quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing the attitudes towards the acceptance of technology within the OEM. To summarise the data into a more condensed form which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data, descriptive statistics were used. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence the perception about ease of use and usefulness, which then in turn influences the attitude and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories within the OEM: Skills and Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function in how to improve the implementation of smart factories. This research suggested improvements for the automotive OEM based on the statistical analysis of the survey results. Inconclusive results were indicated on three variables and these should be improved, namely, Organisational Culture, Job Security and Security and International / National Standards. Two sub-groups were defined by different job levels and different perceptions were found concerning the factors that were measured. People at different job levels in the OEM perceived medium to large significant differences in all the factors comprising the proposed model of the Attitude towards a Smart Factory. The smart factory model developed in this study specified the factors which influence the Attitude towards a Smart Factory within the automotive sector and the effect these factors have on technology acceptance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model of support for divorced professional nurses in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Murray, Daphne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Divorce counseling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Divorce -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employees -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10028 , vital:35293
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to develop a support model for divorced professional nurses in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape, with guidelines to operationalise the model. Divorce is a process with psychological as well as social implications, and with a series of economic causes it also has implications in terms of the society and culture in which individuals operate. The main causes for divorce are adultery and domestic violence, especially against women and children (Lurea, 2011:99). A need for support from managers in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape during the process of divorce was identified by divorced professional nurses, since a lack of support and all the negativity that encompasses divorce could lead to severe depression, which will later have a negative effect on work performance (Abdul Kadir & Bifulco, 2010:858). The literature in this field of study, along with experience, indicates that it is imperative for divorced professional nurses to be supported in the workplace to help them to cope emotionally with their work demands, as prescribed by the South African Nursing Council. An explorative, descriptive and contextual qualitative design with theory generation was used to achieve the purpose of the study. Snowball sampling was employed to select participants, namely divorced professional nurses who were unknown to the researcher. A sample of 21 divorced professional nurses who work in health-care facilities in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual face-face interviews with divorced professional nurses. The interviews continued until data saturation was reached. Field notes supplemented data that could not be portrayed by audio-taped interviews, such as non- verbal communication in observed interactions. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Themes, categories and sub-categories emerged from the data analysis and were fully discussed, becoming fundamental units in the development of the conceptual framework as well as in the model. The researcher did a thorough literature review to conceptualise the identified concepts on which the model was based. The description and evaluation of the model, along with guidelines to operationalise the model, were done in accordance with the method described by Chinn and Kramer (2011:197). The justification of the research, the limitations, and the recommendations for operationalisation of the model of support for divorced professional nurses working in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa were indicated accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Murray, Daphne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Divorce counseling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Divorce -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employees -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10028 , vital:35293
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to develop a support model for divorced professional nurses in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape, with guidelines to operationalise the model. Divorce is a process with psychological as well as social implications, and with a series of economic causes it also has implications in terms of the society and culture in which individuals operate. The main causes for divorce are adultery and domestic violence, especially against women and children (Lurea, 2011:99). A need for support from managers in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape during the process of divorce was identified by divorced professional nurses, since a lack of support and all the negativity that encompasses divorce could lead to severe depression, which will later have a negative effect on work performance (Abdul Kadir & Bifulco, 2010:858). The literature in this field of study, along with experience, indicates that it is imperative for divorced professional nurses to be supported in the workplace to help them to cope emotionally with their work demands, as prescribed by the South African Nursing Council. An explorative, descriptive and contextual qualitative design with theory generation was used to achieve the purpose of the study. Snowball sampling was employed to select participants, namely divorced professional nurses who were unknown to the researcher. A sample of 21 divorced professional nurses who work in health-care facilities in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual face-face interviews with divorced professional nurses. The interviews continued until data saturation was reached. Field notes supplemented data that could not be portrayed by audio-taped interviews, such as non- verbal communication in observed interactions. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Themes, categories and sub-categories emerged from the data analysis and were fully discussed, becoming fundamental units in the development of the conceptual framework as well as in the model. The researcher did a thorough literature review to conceptualise the identified concepts on which the model was based. The description and evaluation of the model, along with guidelines to operationalise the model, were done in accordance with the method described by Chinn and Kramer (2011:197). The justification of the research, the limitations, and the recommendations for operationalisation of the model of support for divorced professional nurses working in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa were indicated accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A molecular phylogeny of the cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) with a review of tribe and subfamily classification:
- Marshall, David C, Moulds, Max, Hill, Kathy B R, Price, Benjamin W, Wade, Elizabeth J, Owen, Christopher L, Goemans, Geert, Marathe, Kiran, Sarkar, Vivek, Cooley, John R, Sanborn, Allen F, Kunte, Krushnamegh, Villet, Martin H, Simon, Chris
- Authors: Marshall, David C , Moulds, Max , Hill, Kathy B R , Price, Benjamin W , Wade, Elizabeth J , Owen, Christopher L , Goemans, Geert , Marathe, Kiran , Sarkar, Vivek , Cooley, John R , Sanborn, Allen F , Kunte, Krushnamegh , Villet, Martin H , Simon, Chris
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140601 , vital:37902 , DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4424.1.1
- Description: A molecular phylogeny and a review of family-group classification are presented for 137 species (ca. 125 genera) of the insect family Cicadidae, the true cicadas, plus two species of hairy cicadas (Tettigarctidae) and two outgroup species from Cercopidae. Five genes, two of them mitochondrial, comprise the 4992 base-pair molecular dataset. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic results are shown, including analyses to address potential base composition bias. Tettigarcta is confirmed as the sister-clade of the Cicadidae and support is found for three subfamilies identified in an earlier morphological cladistic analysis. A set of paraphyletic deep-level clades formed by African genera are together named as Tettigomyiinae n. stat. Taxonomic reassignments of genera and tribes are made where morphological examination confirms incorrect placements suggested by the molecular tree, and 11 new tribes are defined (Arenopsaltriini n. tribe, Durangonini n. tribe, Katoini n. tribe, Lacetasini n. tribe, Macrotristriini n. tribe, Malagasiini n. tribe, Nelcyndanini n. tribe, Pagiphorini n. tribe, Pictilini n. tribe, Psaltodini n. tribe, and Selymbriini n. tribe). Tribe Tacuini n. syn. is synonymized with Cryptotympanini, and Tryellina n. syn. is synonymized with an expanded Tribe Lamotialnini. Tribe Hyantiini n. syn. is synonymized with Fidicinini. Tribe Sinosenini is transferred to Cicadinae from Cicadettinae, Cicadatrini is moved to Cicadettinae from Cicadinae, and Ydiellini and Tettigomyiini are transferred to Tettigomyiinae n. stat from Cicadettinae. While the subfamily Cicadinae, historically defined by the presence of timbal covers, is weakly supported in the molecular tree, high taxonomic rank is not supported for several earlier clades based on unique morphology associated with sound production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Marshall, David C , Moulds, Max , Hill, Kathy B R , Price, Benjamin W , Wade, Elizabeth J , Owen, Christopher L , Goemans, Geert , Marathe, Kiran , Sarkar, Vivek , Cooley, John R , Sanborn, Allen F , Kunte, Krushnamegh , Villet, Martin H , Simon, Chris
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140601 , vital:37902 , DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4424.1.1
- Description: A molecular phylogeny and a review of family-group classification are presented for 137 species (ca. 125 genera) of the insect family Cicadidae, the true cicadas, plus two species of hairy cicadas (Tettigarctidae) and two outgroup species from Cercopidae. Five genes, two of them mitochondrial, comprise the 4992 base-pair molecular dataset. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic results are shown, including analyses to address potential base composition bias. Tettigarcta is confirmed as the sister-clade of the Cicadidae and support is found for three subfamilies identified in an earlier morphological cladistic analysis. A set of paraphyletic deep-level clades formed by African genera are together named as Tettigomyiinae n. stat. Taxonomic reassignments of genera and tribes are made where morphological examination confirms incorrect placements suggested by the molecular tree, and 11 new tribes are defined (Arenopsaltriini n. tribe, Durangonini n. tribe, Katoini n. tribe, Lacetasini n. tribe, Macrotristriini n. tribe, Malagasiini n. tribe, Nelcyndanini n. tribe, Pagiphorini n. tribe, Pictilini n. tribe, Psaltodini n. tribe, and Selymbriini n. tribe). Tribe Tacuini n. syn. is synonymized with Cryptotympanini, and Tryellina n. syn. is synonymized with an expanded Tribe Lamotialnini. Tribe Hyantiini n. syn. is synonymized with Fidicinini. Tribe Sinosenini is transferred to Cicadinae from Cicadettinae, Cicadatrini is moved to Cicadettinae from Cicadinae, and Ydiellini and Tettigomyiini are transferred to Tettigomyiinae n. stat from Cicadettinae. While the subfamily Cicadinae, historically defined by the presence of timbal covers, is weakly supported in the molecular tree, high taxonomic rank is not supported for several earlier clades based on unique morphology associated with sound production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A multi-stakeholder approach to productivity improvement in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Adebowale, Oluseyi Julius
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor productivity , Construction industry -- Labor productivity Construction industry -- South Africa Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19597 , vital:28902
- Description: As poor productivity in construction continues to constitute a setback to projects’ success in different countries of the world, the situation in South African construction is no exception. Poor productivity on construction projects and its detrimental impact on project objectives have continually resonated for decades. As a result, several strategies, interventions, and measures that aimed at improving productivity in the construction sector have been proposed. Nevertheless, the phenomenon importunately creates a major challenge on construction projects, and by extension, the construction industry especially in developing countries. Even when construction management literature acknowledged the commonalities in productivity influences, the practice of addressing construction productivity influences as separate entities has gained much relevance over the years. Taking into perspective, the multidisciplinary and complexity inherent in construction, a systemic approach to addressing construction productivity influences is fast becoming essential. This study addressed productivity-influencing factors by considering factors that are related to rework, shortage of construction resources, constructability, political, socio-economic, working environment, welfare conditions, disputes, planning and training. Consequently, the interdependencies of the most significant productivity-influencing factors in South African construction was developed in the form of a qualitative model. The study adopts the underlying assumptions of the quantitative approach, but also accepts some qualitative data. With regards to the subject of enquiry, the paradigm of the research is positivism which consists of realists’ ontological prescriptions and objectivists’ epistemological prescriptions. Site engineers, site managers, and site supervisors working for cidb registered contractors in four South African provinces constitute the sample stratum. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used to analyse the data gathered from these project participants; both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise and describe the data obtained, while inferential statistics in the form of analysis of variance, T-test, and Tukey post hoc test were adopted. The study reported the most significant factors which negatively influence productivity on South African construction projects as inadequate workers’ skills, defective workmanship, the practice of awarding contracts to lowest bidders, political activities resulting in industrial action, inadequate contractors’ experience in project planning, payment delays by contractors, and corruption. Furthermore, it was found that contractors largely share similar perceptions regarding the factors that constrain productivity growth in South African construction. The approximate level of labour, material, and plant productivity on South African construction projects is 50.4%, 72.9%, and 62.0% respectively, while the approximate multifactor productivity was estimated as 61.8%. The study concluded that productivity has a considerable relationship with time and cost and a less potent relationship with quality. Based on the research findings, contractors’, consultants’, clients’ and government qualitative intervention models were proposed while recommendations towards improving South African construction productivity were made. The study recommended the reinvention of the apprentice training system to develop skills in construction, the involvement of stakeholders in improving workers’ skills, improved collaboration between the construction industry and higher institutions of learning regarding curricula development, adequate supervision of construction activities to mitigate the propagation of rework on construction projects, character in leadership, and integrity of project stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Adebowale, Oluseyi Julius
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor productivity , Construction industry -- Labor productivity Construction industry -- South Africa Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19597 , vital:28902
- Description: As poor productivity in construction continues to constitute a setback to projects’ success in different countries of the world, the situation in South African construction is no exception. Poor productivity on construction projects and its detrimental impact on project objectives have continually resonated for decades. As a result, several strategies, interventions, and measures that aimed at improving productivity in the construction sector have been proposed. Nevertheless, the phenomenon importunately creates a major challenge on construction projects, and by extension, the construction industry especially in developing countries. Even when construction management literature acknowledged the commonalities in productivity influences, the practice of addressing construction productivity influences as separate entities has gained much relevance over the years. Taking into perspective, the multidisciplinary and complexity inherent in construction, a systemic approach to addressing construction productivity influences is fast becoming essential. This study addressed productivity-influencing factors by considering factors that are related to rework, shortage of construction resources, constructability, political, socio-economic, working environment, welfare conditions, disputes, planning and training. Consequently, the interdependencies of the most significant productivity-influencing factors in South African construction was developed in the form of a qualitative model. The study adopts the underlying assumptions of the quantitative approach, but also accepts some qualitative data. With regards to the subject of enquiry, the paradigm of the research is positivism which consists of realists’ ontological prescriptions and objectivists’ epistemological prescriptions. Site engineers, site managers, and site supervisors working for cidb registered contractors in four South African provinces constitute the sample stratum. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used to analyse the data gathered from these project participants; both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise and describe the data obtained, while inferential statistics in the form of analysis of variance, T-test, and Tukey post hoc test were adopted. The study reported the most significant factors which negatively influence productivity on South African construction projects as inadequate workers’ skills, defective workmanship, the practice of awarding contracts to lowest bidders, political activities resulting in industrial action, inadequate contractors’ experience in project planning, payment delays by contractors, and corruption. Furthermore, it was found that contractors largely share similar perceptions regarding the factors that constrain productivity growth in South African construction. The approximate level of labour, material, and plant productivity on South African construction projects is 50.4%, 72.9%, and 62.0% respectively, while the approximate multifactor productivity was estimated as 61.8%. The study concluded that productivity has a considerable relationship with time and cost and a less potent relationship with quality. Based on the research findings, contractors’, consultants’, clients’ and government qualitative intervention models were proposed while recommendations towards improving South African construction productivity were made. The study recommended the reinvention of the apprentice training system to develop skills in construction, the involvement of stakeholders in improving workers’ skills, improved collaboration between the construction industry and higher institutions of learning regarding curricula development, adequate supervision of construction activities to mitigate the propagation of rework on construction projects, character in leadership, and integrity of project stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A narrative study of patients’ illness experiences on antiretroviral treatment
- Authors: Tsope, Lindiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , Stigma (Social psychology) , Antiretroviral agents , Disclosure of information , Social media in medicine South Africa , Discourse analysis, Narrative
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63032 , vital:28356
- Description: Eight female respondents, who have publicly disclosed their HIV-positive status on social media, were involved in a semi-structured in-depth interview process. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and social constructionism, the study explores the effects of antiretroviral treatment on patients’ illness experiences, looking at the personal and social symbolisms and meanings attached to taking antiretrovirals. The study revealed a positive and inspirational aspect of living with HIV/AIDS and especially consuming antiretroviral therapy. It became evident that the knowledge participants had of antiretrovirals before consuming them was misguided and based more on false ‘general knowledge’ among laypersons than actual medical fact. Moreover, the study revealed that there is a social reconstruction of narratives that has taken place in each participant’s life due to consuming antiretrovirals. Publicly disclosing their statuses has also proved to have both negative and positive consequences for the individuals and for society at large. While there is a consensus that participants’ illness experiences are directly affected by antiretroviral treatment, each participant’s narrative is different, yet positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Tsope, Lindiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , Stigma (Social psychology) , Antiretroviral agents , Disclosure of information , Social media in medicine South Africa , Discourse analysis, Narrative
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63032 , vital:28356
- Description: Eight female respondents, who have publicly disclosed their HIV-positive status on social media, were involved in a semi-structured in-depth interview process. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and social constructionism, the study explores the effects of antiretroviral treatment on patients’ illness experiences, looking at the personal and social symbolisms and meanings attached to taking antiretrovirals. The study revealed a positive and inspirational aspect of living with HIV/AIDS and especially consuming antiretroviral therapy. It became evident that the knowledge participants had of antiretrovirals before consuming them was misguided and based more on false ‘general knowledge’ among laypersons than actual medical fact. Moreover, the study revealed that there is a social reconstruction of narratives that has taken place in each participant’s life due to consuming antiretrovirals. Publicly disclosing their statuses has also proved to have both negative and positive consequences for the individuals and for society at large. While there is a consensus that participants’ illness experiences are directly affected by antiretroviral treatment, each participant’s narrative is different, yet positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A New Synthetic Method for Tetraazatricyclic Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Biological Properties
- Odame, Felix, Betz, Richard, Hosten, Eric C, Krause, Jason, Isaacs, Michelle, Hoppe, Heinrich C, Khanye, Setshaba D, Sayed, Yasien, Frost, P Carminita, Lobb, Kevin A, Tshentu, Zenixole
- Authors: Odame, Felix , Betz, Richard , Hosten, Eric C , Krause, Jason , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Khanye, Setshaba D , Sayed, Yasien , Frost, P Carminita , Lobb, Kevin A , Tshentu, Zenixole
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123189 , vital:35413 , https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.201802930
- Description: Herein, we propose novel quinolones incorporating an INH moiety as potential drug templates against TB. The quinolone-based compounds bearing an INH moiety attached via a hydrazide–hydrazone bond were synthesised and evaluated against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (MTB). The compounds were also evaluated for cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines. These compounds showed significant activity (MIC90) against MTB in the range of 0.2–8 μM without any cytotoxic effects. Compounds 10 (MIC90; 0.9 μM), 11 (MIC90; 0.2 μM), 12 (MIC90; 0.8 μM) and compound 15 (MIC90; 0.8 μM), the most active compounds in this series, demonstrate activities on par with INH and superior to those reported for the fluoroquinolones. The SAR analysis suggests that the nature of substituents at positions −1 and −3 of the quinolone nucleus influences anti-MTB activity. Aqueous solubility evaluation and in vitro metabolic stability of compound 12 highlights favourable drug-like properties for this compound class.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Odame, Felix , Betz, Richard , Hosten, Eric C , Krause, Jason , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Khanye, Setshaba D , Sayed, Yasien , Frost, P Carminita , Lobb, Kevin A , Tshentu, Zenixole
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123189 , vital:35413 , https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.201802930
- Description: Herein, we propose novel quinolones incorporating an INH moiety as potential drug templates against TB. The quinolone-based compounds bearing an INH moiety attached via a hydrazide–hydrazone bond were synthesised and evaluated against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (MTB). The compounds were also evaluated for cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines. These compounds showed significant activity (MIC90) against MTB in the range of 0.2–8 μM without any cytotoxic effects. Compounds 10 (MIC90; 0.9 μM), 11 (MIC90; 0.2 μM), 12 (MIC90; 0.8 μM) and compound 15 (MIC90; 0.8 μM), the most active compounds in this series, demonstrate activities on par with INH and superior to those reported for the fluoroquinolones. The SAR analysis suggests that the nature of substituents at positions −1 and −3 of the quinolone nucleus influences anti-MTB activity. Aqueous solubility evaluation and in vitro metabolic stability of compound 12 highlights favourable drug-like properties for this compound class.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A peaceful revenge: Achieving structural and agential transformation in a South African context using cognitive justice and emancipatory social learning
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , James, Anna
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/392049 , vital:68717 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2018.1550312"
- Description: This is an account of the emancipatory struggle that faces agents who seek to change the oppressive social structures associated with neo-liberalism. We begin by ‘digging amongst the bones’ of the calls for resistance that have been declared dead or assimilated/co-opted by neoliberal theorists. This leads us to unearth, then utilize, Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness and Shiv Visvanathan's ideas; which are examples of Roy Bhaskar’s transformative dialectic. We argue, using examples, that cognitive justice – a concept common to each of our chosen theorists – is vital in enabling emancipatory social learning. By embracing cognitive justice, the agents gained confidence, which led to their increased ability to champion community and non-academic knowledge. It also uncovered structural tensions – attendant in neoliberalism – around privilege. By articulating these tensions, the participants were able to ‘come closer together’. Such processes, initiated by ensuring cognitive justice, are possible steps in achieving universal solidarity; which is likely to be a necessary step along the path of achieving emancipation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , James, Anna
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/392049 , vital:68717 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2018.1550312"
- Description: This is an account of the emancipatory struggle that faces agents who seek to change the oppressive social structures associated with neo-liberalism. We begin by ‘digging amongst the bones’ of the calls for resistance that have been declared dead or assimilated/co-opted by neoliberal theorists. This leads us to unearth, then utilize, Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness and Shiv Visvanathan's ideas; which are examples of Roy Bhaskar’s transformative dialectic. We argue, using examples, that cognitive justice – a concept common to each of our chosen theorists – is vital in enabling emancipatory social learning. By embracing cognitive justice, the agents gained confidence, which led to their increased ability to champion community and non-academic knowledge. It also uncovered structural tensions – attendant in neoliberalism – around privilege. By articulating these tensions, the participants were able to ‘come closer together’. Such processes, initiated by ensuring cognitive justice, are possible steps in achieving universal solidarity; which is likely to be a necessary step along the path of achieving emancipation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A performance management model for organisational performance excellence in the South African railway industry
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A performance metric system for the long-term sustainability of a multi-national enterprise
- Authors: Buyers, John Ian
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: nternational business enterprises , Business enterprises -- Finance Sales management Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23526 , vital:30575
- Description: The purpose of this Qualitative research was to determine the metrics required to define the Long-Term Sustainability of a Multinational Enterprise (MNE). The study investigated and analysed how the individual subsidiaries of a listed organisation interpreted LTS and what measurements (metrics) were the most important in supporting this long-term approach. The research analysed questionnaires administered to managers from different disciplines within the organisation. This process sought to accumulate a set of responses and through the statistical analysis of these responses, in particular, extensive qualitative research was used to find a common thread of relevant metrics, which can be used presently and in the future to determine LTS. The researcher reviewed models and the literature to establish a set of questions for the construction of individual questionnaires. This was based on current theory combined with institutional knowledge and experience. The questionnaires were designed to provoke responses from management of their view of the important contributors to LTS. The individual questionnaires (Annexures I to VIII) comprised a series of focused questions and multiple-choice answers based on either 5 or 10-point Likert scales and a few open-ended questions. The main respondents were VPs, MDs, OMs, Human Resource Managers, Financial Managers, and Sales and Marketing Managers of the subsidiaries within the MNE. These “At the heart of an excellent manufacturing business rests the efficiency of its operations, the commitment of the people who manufacture the products, the level of motivation of the workforce, the passion of its salesforce and the innovation shown by its engineers” respondents were all best suited to answer questions at the required level of expertise, when taking into consideration the LTS of the organisation. The data obtained from the research was used to devise suggested scorecards that may be used as guidelines for current and future initiatives when considering LTS. Qualitative research methods were used in this research as they seek understanding of “how things work in particular contexts”. This allows for the building of new theory and the conceptual advancements of knowledge, starting with very general concepts which, as the research progresses, change their definition (Brannen, 2016). In qualitative research, researchers use themselves as the instrument, attending to their own cultural assumptions as well as to the data. to achieve imaginative insights into the respondents’ social worlds. (McCracken, 1988). Concepts and categories are relevant to qualitative research. as quantitative research is an exercise in analytical induction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Buyers, John Ian
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: nternational business enterprises , Business enterprises -- Finance Sales management Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23526 , vital:30575
- Description: The purpose of this Qualitative research was to determine the metrics required to define the Long-Term Sustainability of a Multinational Enterprise (MNE). The study investigated and analysed how the individual subsidiaries of a listed organisation interpreted LTS and what measurements (metrics) were the most important in supporting this long-term approach. The research analysed questionnaires administered to managers from different disciplines within the organisation. This process sought to accumulate a set of responses and through the statistical analysis of these responses, in particular, extensive qualitative research was used to find a common thread of relevant metrics, which can be used presently and in the future to determine LTS. The researcher reviewed models and the literature to establish a set of questions for the construction of individual questionnaires. This was based on current theory combined with institutional knowledge and experience. The questionnaires were designed to provoke responses from management of their view of the important contributors to LTS. The individual questionnaires (Annexures I to VIII) comprised a series of focused questions and multiple-choice answers based on either 5 or 10-point Likert scales and a few open-ended questions. The main respondents were VPs, MDs, OMs, Human Resource Managers, Financial Managers, and Sales and Marketing Managers of the subsidiaries within the MNE. These “At the heart of an excellent manufacturing business rests the efficiency of its operations, the commitment of the people who manufacture the products, the level of motivation of the workforce, the passion of its salesforce and the innovation shown by its engineers” respondents were all best suited to answer questions at the required level of expertise, when taking into consideration the LTS of the organisation. The data obtained from the research was used to devise suggested scorecards that may be used as guidelines for current and future initiatives when considering LTS. Qualitative research methods were used in this research as they seek understanding of “how things work in particular contexts”. This allows for the building of new theory and the conceptual advancements of knowledge, starting with very general concepts which, as the research progresses, change their definition (Brannen, 2016). In qualitative research, researchers use themselves as the instrument, attending to their own cultural assumptions as well as to the data. to achieve imaginative insights into the respondents’ social worlds. (McCracken, 1988). Concepts and categories are relevant to qualitative research. as quantitative research is an exercise in analytical induction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A programme of academic support for students at the public nursing college of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa
- Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Authors: Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Simulation methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10997 , vital:36128
- Description: A comprehensive academic support at the public nursing college is important. Despite this, there is no such support in public nursing colleges in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to develop an academic support programme for students in order to improve their success in Higher Education. The study endeavoured to answer the following questions: What are the academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for the academic support programme of students? What academic support programme can be developed for students at the public nursing college? What guidelines can be developed for implementation of academic support programme of students? The objectives were: to describe academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the eastern Cape Province of South Africa; to develop a conceptual framework for the academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa; to develop an academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape in south Africa and lastly to describe guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The research design used in this study was quantitative, qualitative, descriptive, evaluative, and theory generation. The study was conducted according to four phases. Phase one focussed on academic supports needs of the student. Phase two focussed on development of conceptual framework for the students at the public nursing college in Eastern Cape Province. Phase three focussed on the development of the academic support programme for the students, whereas phase four focussed on description of guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The population of the study consisted of students undergoing training in a four-year programme at the Public Nursing College. The target population was the students in the same programme from level one to level four of training. The sampling technique used was a probability sampling with multi-stage and cluster sampling techniques being utilized. The total sample was n=333 participants. A quantitative self-developed questionnaire was used to collect empirical data. The questionnaire consisted of eight sections. Descriptive data was analysed using Statistic Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the descriptive data collected in phase one. Concept analysis and identification were done through the utilisation of exploratory factor analysis. The conceptual framework for the academic support programme was identified through the analysed factors. Fifteen factors were derived from the descriptive data. The conceptual framework of the academic support programme discussed in Chapter 5 was used also in the development of the academic support programme. It is in this chapter that assumptions, context, stakeholders, process, outcome, dynamics and, lastly, the recipient were discussed, along with a description of the programme. The programme was evaluated in accordance with the criteria for programme evaluation. The recommendations brought forward for the academic support programme were: The guidelines have to be tested for the implementation of the programme; benchmarking should be done to compare with other institutions of higher learning regarding their academic support programmes; an academic brochure regarding academic support must be available in the college and should be given to students on arrival as part of a package; and neutral researcher should conduct the same research in the same college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Simulation methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10997 , vital:36128
- Description: A comprehensive academic support at the public nursing college is important. Despite this, there is no such support in public nursing colleges in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to develop an academic support programme for students in order to improve their success in Higher Education. The study endeavoured to answer the following questions: What are the academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for the academic support programme of students? What academic support programme can be developed for students at the public nursing college? What guidelines can be developed for implementation of academic support programme of students? The objectives were: to describe academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the eastern Cape Province of South Africa; to develop a conceptual framework for the academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa; to develop an academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape in south Africa and lastly to describe guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The research design used in this study was quantitative, qualitative, descriptive, evaluative, and theory generation. The study was conducted according to four phases. Phase one focussed on academic supports needs of the student. Phase two focussed on development of conceptual framework for the students at the public nursing college in Eastern Cape Province. Phase three focussed on the development of the academic support programme for the students, whereas phase four focussed on description of guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The population of the study consisted of students undergoing training in a four-year programme at the Public Nursing College. The target population was the students in the same programme from level one to level four of training. The sampling technique used was a probability sampling with multi-stage and cluster sampling techniques being utilized. The total sample was n=333 participants. A quantitative self-developed questionnaire was used to collect empirical data. The questionnaire consisted of eight sections. Descriptive data was analysed using Statistic Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the descriptive data collected in phase one. Concept analysis and identification were done through the utilisation of exploratory factor analysis. The conceptual framework for the academic support programme was identified through the analysed factors. Fifteen factors were derived from the descriptive data. The conceptual framework of the academic support programme discussed in Chapter 5 was used also in the development of the academic support programme. It is in this chapter that assumptions, context, stakeholders, process, outcome, dynamics and, lastly, the recipient were discussed, along with a description of the programme. The programme was evaluated in accordance with the criteria for programme evaluation. The recommendations brought forward for the academic support programme were: The guidelines have to be tested for the implementation of the programme; benchmarking should be done to compare with other institutions of higher learning regarding their academic support programmes; an academic brochure regarding academic support must be available in the college and should be given to students on arrival as part of a package; and neutral researcher should conduct the same research in the same college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A proposed sustainable funding framework for the public broadcaster in South Africa
- Authors: Nyembezi, Cydric Luvuyo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South African Broadcasting Corporation -- Finance , Finance, Public -- South Africa Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34443 , vital:33379
- Description: Public service broadcasting in South Africa is the responsibility of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which is the only national public service broadcaster mandated through the South African Broadcasting Act. Consequently, the SABC is meant to be a tool for information, entertainment and education that is accessible by all citizens, regardless of their social and economic status in the community. However, like all enterprises, the SABC requires a sustainable source of revenue to function effectively. It is of the utmost importance that the SABC has the necessary resources and stable source of revenue to fulfil its public service responsibilities, as a lack of proper resources and insufficient funds can hinder the provision of these services. The global economic crisis has put all public and private sector companies under financial pressure. The effect of this financial pressure was felt by the SABC and led to financial loss, subsequently posing a serious threat to the financial sustainability of the SABC. Given this situation, this study sought to develop a sustainable funding framework by identifying factors that influence the financial sustainability of the public broadcaster in South Africa and to provide alternative strategies for improving the financial sustainability of the public broadcaster in South Africa, which has thus far proved unsustainable and insecure. Past research has focused mainly on defining a public service broadcaster or a public mandate, or considered the future of public service broadcasters. In these past studies, researchers mostly debated the SABC funding challenges without attempting to develop a funding framework for the SABC. To achieve the objectives of this study a quantitative approach using a web-based distribution survey method was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected in each provincial SABC office from the database of managers, unionised and non-unionised employees, as well as the database list of freelancers. A total of 432 participants, selected through a stratification sampling technique, were considered and 175 respondents completed the survey. However, after data clean-up only 168 respondents’ data was usable. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a theoretical framework regarding sustainable funding of the public broadcaster in South Africa was constructed. The proposed theoretical framework indicated that the intervening variable, which is sustainable funding, is possibly influenced by three independent variables namely, internal stakeholders, a competitive environment and the management of resources. The perceived outcomes (dependent variables) of a sustainably funded public broadcaster were identified as customer benefits and organisational performance. The computer programme STATISTICA was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise the data of the respondents and allow easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was used to test for relationships between identified variables using a validity test, reliability test and correlation and regression analysis. The empirical results revealed that sustainable funding formed two separate intervening variables. These variables were renamed sustainable funding enabler and sustainable funding as part of management control. The dependent variable customer benefits and organisational performance also loaded onto a single factor and was renamed organisational outcomes. Given the results, it was determined that internal stakeholders, competitive environment and management of resources have a significant positive influence on the sustainable funding enabler for the public broadcaster. In turn, sustainable funding enabler had a significant positive influence on the organisational outcomes (customer benefits and performance). On the other hand, only the management of resources had a positive influence on sustainable funding as part of management control of the public broadcaster. Furthermore, sustainable funding as part of management control still had a significant positive influence on the organisational outcomes. The majority of the respondents agreed in their responses in relation to the variable items measuring sustainable funding as a part of management control and its influence to the organisational outcomes of the public broadcaster. In conclusion, sustainable funding of the public broadcaster is influenced by the identified variables, namely internal stakeholders, competitive environment and management of resources. In turn, sustainable funding has a positive influence on the organisational outcomes (customer benefits and performance). It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study will assist the SABC in understanding the factors influencing financial sustainability and thereby assist the organisation during strategy development and decision making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that will make the SABC financially sustainable. Finally, the objectives of this study were achieved and the research questions were answered. This study can also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nyembezi, Cydric Luvuyo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South African Broadcasting Corporation -- Finance , Finance, Public -- South Africa Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34443 , vital:33379
- Description: Public service broadcasting in South Africa is the responsibility of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which is the only national public service broadcaster mandated through the South African Broadcasting Act. Consequently, the SABC is meant to be a tool for information, entertainment and education that is accessible by all citizens, regardless of their social and economic status in the community. However, like all enterprises, the SABC requires a sustainable source of revenue to function effectively. It is of the utmost importance that the SABC has the necessary resources and stable source of revenue to fulfil its public service responsibilities, as a lack of proper resources and insufficient funds can hinder the provision of these services. The global economic crisis has put all public and private sector companies under financial pressure. The effect of this financial pressure was felt by the SABC and led to financial loss, subsequently posing a serious threat to the financial sustainability of the SABC. Given this situation, this study sought to develop a sustainable funding framework by identifying factors that influence the financial sustainability of the public broadcaster in South Africa and to provide alternative strategies for improving the financial sustainability of the public broadcaster in South Africa, which has thus far proved unsustainable and insecure. Past research has focused mainly on defining a public service broadcaster or a public mandate, or considered the future of public service broadcasters. In these past studies, researchers mostly debated the SABC funding challenges without attempting to develop a funding framework for the SABC. To achieve the objectives of this study a quantitative approach using a web-based distribution survey method was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected in each provincial SABC office from the database of managers, unionised and non-unionised employees, as well as the database list of freelancers. A total of 432 participants, selected through a stratification sampling technique, were considered and 175 respondents completed the survey. However, after data clean-up only 168 respondents’ data was usable. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a theoretical framework regarding sustainable funding of the public broadcaster in South Africa was constructed. The proposed theoretical framework indicated that the intervening variable, which is sustainable funding, is possibly influenced by three independent variables namely, internal stakeholders, a competitive environment and the management of resources. The perceived outcomes (dependent variables) of a sustainably funded public broadcaster were identified as customer benefits and organisational performance. The computer programme STATISTICA was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise the data of the respondents and allow easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was used to test for relationships between identified variables using a validity test, reliability test and correlation and regression analysis. The empirical results revealed that sustainable funding formed two separate intervening variables. These variables were renamed sustainable funding enabler and sustainable funding as part of management control. The dependent variable customer benefits and organisational performance also loaded onto a single factor and was renamed organisational outcomes. Given the results, it was determined that internal stakeholders, competitive environment and management of resources have a significant positive influence on the sustainable funding enabler for the public broadcaster. In turn, sustainable funding enabler had a significant positive influence on the organisational outcomes (customer benefits and performance). On the other hand, only the management of resources had a positive influence on sustainable funding as part of management control of the public broadcaster. Furthermore, sustainable funding as part of management control still had a significant positive influence on the organisational outcomes. The majority of the respondents agreed in their responses in relation to the variable items measuring sustainable funding as a part of management control and its influence to the organisational outcomes of the public broadcaster. In conclusion, sustainable funding of the public broadcaster is influenced by the identified variables, namely internal stakeholders, competitive environment and management of resources. In turn, sustainable funding has a positive influence on the organisational outcomes (customer benefits and performance). It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study will assist the SABC in understanding the factors influencing financial sustainability and thereby assist the organisation during strategy development and decision making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that will make the SABC financially sustainable. Finally, the objectives of this study were achieved and the research questions were answered. This study can also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A psychobiographical study of Temple Grandin
- Authors: Wannenburg, Nicola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Grandin, Temple , Psychology Biographical methods , Psychoanalysis , Autistic women United States Biography , Women animal specialists United States Biography , Developmental psychology , Erikson, Erik H (Erik Homburger), 1902-1994
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57358 , vital:26877
- Description: Psychobiographical researchers methodically formulate life histories and interpret them by means of psychological theories. The research typically focuses on exemplary and completed lives. The cases that are studied are usually of individuals who are of particular interest to society as a result of excelling in their particular fields, be they to benefit or detriment of society. Temple Grandin was chosen for this study using purposive sampling as she meets the psychobiographical requirement of being an extraordinary individual. As an individual with autism Grandin faced many challenges growing up. Despite a difficult and absent beginning, Grandin developed into a stable and scientifically creative adult who contributes to society. She excels as an animal scientist and designer of humane livestock handling facilities and has an international reputation for her contribution to the livestock industry and animal welfare. The primary aim of this study is to describe and interpret the life of Temple Grandin through Erikson’s (1950/1973) theory of psychosocial development. A mixed method approach (Yin, 2006) was employed for the conduction of this study. The overarching data processing and analysis guidelines for this study were provided by Miles and Huberman (1994, 2002a, 2002b). The conduction of the processing and analysis of data was aided by Alexander’s (1988, 1990) method of asking the data questions as well as an integration of Yin’s (2014) time series analysis with Erikson’s (1950/1973) triple bookkeeping approach. This study contributes to the development of psychobiographical research in South Africa as well as to personality and developmental theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Wannenburg, Nicola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Grandin, Temple , Psychology Biographical methods , Psychoanalysis , Autistic women United States Biography , Women animal specialists United States Biography , Developmental psychology , Erikson, Erik H (Erik Homburger), 1902-1994
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57358 , vital:26877
- Description: Psychobiographical researchers methodically formulate life histories and interpret them by means of psychological theories. The research typically focuses on exemplary and completed lives. The cases that are studied are usually of individuals who are of particular interest to society as a result of excelling in their particular fields, be they to benefit or detriment of society. Temple Grandin was chosen for this study using purposive sampling as she meets the psychobiographical requirement of being an extraordinary individual. As an individual with autism Grandin faced many challenges growing up. Despite a difficult and absent beginning, Grandin developed into a stable and scientifically creative adult who contributes to society. She excels as an animal scientist and designer of humane livestock handling facilities and has an international reputation for her contribution to the livestock industry and animal welfare. The primary aim of this study is to describe and interpret the life of Temple Grandin through Erikson’s (1950/1973) theory of psychosocial development. A mixed method approach (Yin, 2006) was employed for the conduction of this study. The overarching data processing and analysis guidelines for this study were provided by Miles and Huberman (1994, 2002a, 2002b). The conduction of the processing and analysis of data was aided by Alexander’s (1988, 1990) method of asking the data questions as well as an integration of Yin’s (2014) time series analysis with Erikson’s (1950/1973) triple bookkeeping approach. This study contributes to the development of psychobiographical research in South Africa as well as to personality and developmental theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A psychosocial reading of novice clinical psychologists’ talk about whiteness
- Authors: Kennedy, Brink
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Clinical psychology Practice South Africa , White people Race identity South Africa , White privilege (Social structure) South Africa , White people Race identity Psychological aspects , Intercultural communication , Psychoanalysis and racism South Africa , Mentalization Based Therapy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60212 , vital:27751
- Description: This research presents a case study report of interview encounters with two novice white South African clinical psychologists. A psychosocial research methodology is employed to examine the discursive strategies that participants engage in when speaking about whiteness in the context of their professional identity and practice, as well as to examine the ways in which these discursive strategies support or constrain ‘mentalizing’ in relation to raced experience. One case study highlights an individualistic discourse of ‘racial innocence’, which constructs the speaker as being free of racial enculturation and consciousness, eliding a broader social context. I argue that this discourse closes down mentalizing in relation to more difficult, intractable aspects of raced experience in clinical work, relating to differences in positionality as well as issues of inequality. I also propose that this discourse may be understood in terms of a ‘pretend’ mode of thought, where aspects of the wider social context and of race in particular are experienced as being unrelated to intimate personal experience. The other case study highlights a discourse of ‘uneasy whiteness’ that involves awareness of white positionality, and that is grounded in a constructionist sensibility. This positions the speaker as being inevitably implicated in white privilege and racism in ways that she may be ignorant of. I argue that the discourse facilitates a particular type of mentalizing that is sensitive to the interpellation of intimate personal experience with a wider social context that encompasses a range of discourses and practices. It closes down mentalizing, however, in so far as it allows a reified construction of whiteness. I find the concept of psychic equivalence, which equates external (concrete, factual) reality and internal (subjective, symbolic) reality, useful in terms of understanding this reification. Overall the research highlights the tension between constructionist and individualistic modes of thinking within clinical psychology research and practice in the South African context. At the level of methodology, it presents an example of how these modes may be integrated within research. At the level of content, it explores differences between constructionist and individualistic talk in relation to race and psychological practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kennedy, Brink
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Clinical psychology Practice South Africa , White people Race identity South Africa , White privilege (Social structure) South Africa , White people Race identity Psychological aspects , Intercultural communication , Psychoanalysis and racism South Africa , Mentalization Based Therapy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60212 , vital:27751
- Description: This research presents a case study report of interview encounters with two novice white South African clinical psychologists. A psychosocial research methodology is employed to examine the discursive strategies that participants engage in when speaking about whiteness in the context of their professional identity and practice, as well as to examine the ways in which these discursive strategies support or constrain ‘mentalizing’ in relation to raced experience. One case study highlights an individualistic discourse of ‘racial innocence’, which constructs the speaker as being free of racial enculturation and consciousness, eliding a broader social context. I argue that this discourse closes down mentalizing in relation to more difficult, intractable aspects of raced experience in clinical work, relating to differences in positionality as well as issues of inequality. I also propose that this discourse may be understood in terms of a ‘pretend’ mode of thought, where aspects of the wider social context and of race in particular are experienced as being unrelated to intimate personal experience. The other case study highlights a discourse of ‘uneasy whiteness’ that involves awareness of white positionality, and that is grounded in a constructionist sensibility. This positions the speaker as being inevitably implicated in white privilege and racism in ways that she may be ignorant of. I argue that the discourse facilitates a particular type of mentalizing that is sensitive to the interpellation of intimate personal experience with a wider social context that encompasses a range of discourses and practices. It closes down mentalizing, however, in so far as it allows a reified construction of whiteness. I find the concept of psychic equivalence, which equates external (concrete, factual) reality and internal (subjective, symbolic) reality, useful in terms of understanding this reification. Overall the research highlights the tension between constructionist and individualistic modes of thinking within clinical psychology research and practice in the South African context. At the level of methodology, it presents an example of how these modes may be integrated within research. At the level of content, it explores differences between constructionist and individualistic talk in relation to race and psychological practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A qualitative assessment of the achievement of gender equality under education for all (EFA) goals : study of Lagos State, Nigeria
- Authors: Adeleke, Adawi Adeola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in education -- Nigeria Sexism in education -- Nigeria Educational equalization -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9500 , vital:34357
- Description: The importance of education cannot be overemphasized. Education has been identified as the most critical instrument for empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills, which can give them access to productive employment. Also, the future of a country is based on the quality of education acquired by its citizens which helps in transforming it from pre-literate to contemporary nationhood. Many international treaties and initiatives in the world have made special provisions for education as a duty of every government which must be given to every citizen as of right, irrespective of gender or social class. Amongst these international initiatives is the Education for All (EFA) Goals, a time-bound global movement towards the provision of education for every one led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). There are six goals in all. This study investigated one of the EFA goals, the goal 5. The aim of the study was a qualitative assessment of the achievement of gender equality goal under the Education for All (EFA) goals, a study of Lagos State, Nigeria. The theoretical framework of the study is informed by the Social Justice Theory and the Social Justice Praxis Theory. Scholarly works and literatures on girl-child education, gender and education, and gender balancing in education were reviewed. The study followed qualitative research approach which utilizes an interpretive research paradigm that provides a collective voice from the participants. The research area was purposively selected as Lagos State being a former capital of Nigeria and still the commercial nerve centre of the nation. Although it is the smallest state in Nigeria in term of size, it remains the most populous in the country with a projected population of 20,546,999 (13.5percent Nigeria’s total population). A sample of 16 participants were purposively selected because they were the officers directly in charge of the implementation government policies on education in the State. The data was collected through in-depth recorded interview sessions and secondary data were sourced through official documents downloaded online and from Lagos State Ministry of Education. Based on the thematic analysis of the data collected, the study found out that the State government had established policies and measures to provide qualitative education for all the citizens on a non-discriminatory basis. Thus, the goal of gender parity in terms of enrollment of boys and girls has been relatively achieved in the state. However, there were still some challenges of equality in the learning process and outcome. The study therefore recommends that schools should be made attractive and conducive as possible to assist the educational attainment of any student. This could be achieved by promoting positive values and attitudes towards education, all the stakeholders in the education sector must be involved in the business of running the school. There should also be a form of resourcing and expansion of the school facilities through the Public - Private Partnership in education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Adeleke, Adawi Adeola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in education -- Nigeria Sexism in education -- Nigeria Educational equalization -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9500 , vital:34357
- Description: The importance of education cannot be overemphasized. Education has been identified as the most critical instrument for empowering individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills, which can give them access to productive employment. Also, the future of a country is based on the quality of education acquired by its citizens which helps in transforming it from pre-literate to contemporary nationhood. Many international treaties and initiatives in the world have made special provisions for education as a duty of every government which must be given to every citizen as of right, irrespective of gender or social class. Amongst these international initiatives is the Education for All (EFA) Goals, a time-bound global movement towards the provision of education for every one led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). There are six goals in all. This study investigated one of the EFA goals, the goal 5. The aim of the study was a qualitative assessment of the achievement of gender equality goal under the Education for All (EFA) goals, a study of Lagos State, Nigeria. The theoretical framework of the study is informed by the Social Justice Theory and the Social Justice Praxis Theory. Scholarly works and literatures on girl-child education, gender and education, and gender balancing in education were reviewed. The study followed qualitative research approach which utilizes an interpretive research paradigm that provides a collective voice from the participants. The research area was purposively selected as Lagos State being a former capital of Nigeria and still the commercial nerve centre of the nation. Although it is the smallest state in Nigeria in term of size, it remains the most populous in the country with a projected population of 20,546,999 (13.5percent Nigeria’s total population). A sample of 16 participants were purposively selected because they were the officers directly in charge of the implementation government policies on education in the State. The data was collected through in-depth recorded interview sessions and secondary data were sourced through official documents downloaded online and from Lagos State Ministry of Education. Based on the thematic analysis of the data collected, the study found out that the State government had established policies and measures to provide qualitative education for all the citizens on a non-discriminatory basis. Thus, the goal of gender parity in terms of enrollment of boys and girls has been relatively achieved in the state. However, there were still some challenges of equality in the learning process and outcome. The study therefore recommends that schools should be made attractive and conducive as possible to assist the educational attainment of any student. This could be achieved by promoting positive values and attitudes towards education, all the stakeholders in the education sector must be involved in the business of running the school. There should also be a form of resourcing and expansion of the school facilities through the Public - Private Partnership in education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A qualitative study of the psychosocial well-being of adolescent females orphaned by HIV/AIDS in Nkonkobe Municipality
- Authors: Mahola, Mpho Nosisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients Orphans -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10818 , vital:35807
- Description: Approximately twelve million children under the age of 18 years worldwide have lost one or both parents due to HIV/AIDS. Several factors can be considered to contribute to the psychosocial well-being of HIV/AIDS orphaned teenage girls, among others, poverty, lack of social support, post-traumatic stress disorder, stigma and discrimination which have adverse consequences to the said teenager. Evidence suggests that HIV/AIDS orphaned adolescent girls may engage in relationships with older men to fund for school and other expenses and also to fulfil the need for a parental figure or emotional support, affection and attention. Against this background, this research study intended to investigate the psychosocial wellbeing of adolescent females orphaned by HIV/AIDS in the Nkonkobe Municipality. Fourteen Xhosa- speaking adolescent females between the ages of 15 and 18 years were recruited by means of snowball technique to participate in a qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews allowed sensitive issues to be discussed more easily. To ensure confidentiality and anonymity, the researcher suggested pseudonyms for the participants. This took place after the management of Isibindi Community Centre from Alice and Child Welfare from Fort Beaufort, both from the Eastern Cape, South Africa granted permission to conduct the study. The social worker from child welfare and the principal of Lingeni High School, assisted in ensuring that the participants from the two data collection sites, are organized prior the study. The researcher used Guba’s model whereby Guba and Lincoln’s model to ascertain the trustworthiness of qualitative research by following these principles; credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. The framework analysis which uses a thematic approach was utilized to analyse data. Meanings were formulated and they produced clusters of themes. The findings of the study revealed that HIV/AIDS orphaned adolescent females experienced grief of the loss of parents which made it difficult by deepening poverty and multifaceted challenges. Participants’ psychological well-being was impaired, subsequently they engaged in risky sexual behaviour, that is, substance abuse and multiple sexual partnership. However, an element of hardiness emanated from the participants’ personalities. They demonstrated problem-focused coping with the challenges they confront, despite the lack of consistent support structures. Their resiliency and sense of belonging owing to the nature of support from extended families ignited a sense of purpose amongst the participants. In conclusion, it is recommended that children orphaned by HIV/AIDS should be told of the cause of the death of their parents as this will make them aware of the dangers and consequences of their actions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mahola, Mpho Nosisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients Orphans -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10818 , vital:35807
- Description: Approximately twelve million children under the age of 18 years worldwide have lost one or both parents due to HIV/AIDS. Several factors can be considered to contribute to the psychosocial well-being of HIV/AIDS orphaned teenage girls, among others, poverty, lack of social support, post-traumatic stress disorder, stigma and discrimination which have adverse consequences to the said teenager. Evidence suggests that HIV/AIDS orphaned adolescent girls may engage in relationships with older men to fund for school and other expenses and also to fulfil the need for a parental figure or emotional support, affection and attention. Against this background, this research study intended to investigate the psychosocial wellbeing of adolescent females orphaned by HIV/AIDS in the Nkonkobe Municipality. Fourteen Xhosa- speaking adolescent females between the ages of 15 and 18 years were recruited by means of snowball technique to participate in a qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews allowed sensitive issues to be discussed more easily. To ensure confidentiality and anonymity, the researcher suggested pseudonyms for the participants. This took place after the management of Isibindi Community Centre from Alice and Child Welfare from Fort Beaufort, both from the Eastern Cape, South Africa granted permission to conduct the study. The social worker from child welfare and the principal of Lingeni High School, assisted in ensuring that the participants from the two data collection sites, are organized prior the study. The researcher used Guba’s model whereby Guba and Lincoln’s model to ascertain the trustworthiness of qualitative research by following these principles; credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. The framework analysis which uses a thematic approach was utilized to analyse data. Meanings were formulated and they produced clusters of themes. The findings of the study revealed that HIV/AIDS orphaned adolescent females experienced grief of the loss of parents which made it difficult by deepening poverty and multifaceted challenges. Participants’ psychological well-being was impaired, subsequently they engaged in risky sexual behaviour, that is, substance abuse and multiple sexual partnership. However, an element of hardiness emanated from the participants’ personalities. They demonstrated problem-focused coping with the challenges they confront, despite the lack of consistent support structures. Their resiliency and sense of belonging owing to the nature of support from extended families ignited a sense of purpose amongst the participants. In conclusion, it is recommended that children orphaned by HIV/AIDS should be told of the cause of the death of their parents as this will make them aware of the dangers and consequences of their actions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A reconciliation study of different resource estimation methods and drill hole spacing as applied to the Langer Heinrich calcrete-hosted uranium deposit, Namibia
- Authors: Baufeldt, Sven
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Uranium -- Namibia , Calcretes -- Namibia , Carnotite -- Namibia , Uranium mines and mining -- Namibia , Uranium ores -- Geology -- Namibia , Langer-Heinrich Uranium mine
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62527 , vital:28203
- Description: The Langer Heinrich calcrete hosted uranium deposit is situated approximately 90 km to east of the coastal town of Swakopmund in Namibia. It is run by an Australian owned company, Paladin Energy Limited, along with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) who maintain 25% of the shares. Production commenced in 2007 and has been ongoing. Carnotite is the primary and only ore mineral, and the nature of mineralisation within the Langer Heinrich palaeo channel dictates westward-directed continuous open pit mining. Smaller-scale 1micro pits target near-surface, high-grade, lenses toward the east. The high variability in uranium grade over relatively short distances complicates the grade estimation process. This combined with a low uranium price, and a study aimed at optimising of mine production is one of the key drivers for the research presented in this thesis. The efficacy of four resource estimation techniques, commonly used in the mining industry, are investigated by application to variable exploration, infill drilling and grade-control drill pattern spacing. The drill spacing includes regular grids of 50 m x 50 m, 25 m x 25 m and 12,5 m x 12,5 m exploration data. Also included is grade control drill data, drilled on a 4 m x 4 m spacing. The current selective mining unit (SMU) is 4mE x 4mN x 3mRl which is an indication of the minimum dimension whereby the loading equipment can separate ore from waste. The two datasets are processed by four estimation techniques: Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW, squared and cubed), Ordinary Kriging (OK), Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) and Conditional Simulation (CS). The two datasets consisted of real-time mining data from pit G1 (micro-pit) in the eastern parts of the mining licence, and pit H1 (continuous larger open pit) in the western area of the palaeo channel. The reconciliation project aims to provide results suitable for devising optimised mining strategies, particularly in future targets where drill spacing can perhaps be improved to provide suitable data with a greater cost saving strategy. Along with the optimal drill spacing or combination thereof, a preferred estimation technique can be suggested and recommended for future operations that involve mining of surficial calcrete-hosted uranium deposits. Results of this study show that 12,5 m x 12,5 m drill spacing provided estimation accuracies similar to that of the narrow 4 m x 4 m grade control spacing (blast hole drilling spacing). The 12,5 m x 12,5m spacing has potential for accurate grade estimations during mining, and could be supplemented by infill downhole radiometric logging on a 4 m x 4 m spacing when 1 Micro pit: Small pits within palaeo channel usually targeted for their near surface high-grade ore necessary. In general, Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) provided the most accurate and robust estimations on the wider spaced exploration data and conditional simulation (CS) proved more efficient on the narrow grade control data. These results correspond with current exploration practices for surficial uranium deposits world-wide. Deposit type, therefore complexity and hence SMU sizes play a pivotal role in drill hole planning and estimation accuracies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Baufeldt, Sven
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Uranium -- Namibia , Calcretes -- Namibia , Carnotite -- Namibia , Uranium mines and mining -- Namibia , Uranium ores -- Geology -- Namibia , Langer-Heinrich Uranium mine
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62527 , vital:28203
- Description: The Langer Heinrich calcrete hosted uranium deposit is situated approximately 90 km to east of the coastal town of Swakopmund in Namibia. It is run by an Australian owned company, Paladin Energy Limited, along with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) who maintain 25% of the shares. Production commenced in 2007 and has been ongoing. Carnotite is the primary and only ore mineral, and the nature of mineralisation within the Langer Heinrich palaeo channel dictates westward-directed continuous open pit mining. Smaller-scale 1micro pits target near-surface, high-grade, lenses toward the east. The high variability in uranium grade over relatively short distances complicates the grade estimation process. This combined with a low uranium price, and a study aimed at optimising of mine production is one of the key drivers for the research presented in this thesis. The efficacy of four resource estimation techniques, commonly used in the mining industry, are investigated by application to variable exploration, infill drilling and grade-control drill pattern spacing. The drill spacing includes regular grids of 50 m x 50 m, 25 m x 25 m and 12,5 m x 12,5 m exploration data. Also included is grade control drill data, drilled on a 4 m x 4 m spacing. The current selective mining unit (SMU) is 4mE x 4mN x 3mRl which is an indication of the minimum dimension whereby the loading equipment can separate ore from waste. The two datasets are processed by four estimation techniques: Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW, squared and cubed), Ordinary Kriging (OK), Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) and Conditional Simulation (CS). The two datasets consisted of real-time mining data from pit G1 (micro-pit) in the eastern parts of the mining licence, and pit H1 (continuous larger open pit) in the western area of the palaeo channel. The reconciliation project aims to provide results suitable for devising optimised mining strategies, particularly in future targets where drill spacing can perhaps be improved to provide suitable data with a greater cost saving strategy. Along with the optimal drill spacing or combination thereof, a preferred estimation technique can be suggested and recommended for future operations that involve mining of surficial calcrete-hosted uranium deposits. Results of this study show that 12,5 m x 12,5 m drill spacing provided estimation accuracies similar to that of the narrow 4 m x 4 m grade control spacing (blast hole drilling spacing). The 12,5 m x 12,5m spacing has potential for accurate grade estimations during mining, and could be supplemented by infill downhole radiometric logging on a 4 m x 4 m spacing when 1 Micro pit: Small pits within palaeo channel usually targeted for their near surface high-grade ore necessary. In general, Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) provided the most accurate and robust estimations on the wider spaced exploration data and conditional simulation (CS) proved more efficient on the narrow grade control data. These results correspond with current exploration practices for surficial uranium deposits world-wide. Deposit type, therefore complexity and hence SMU sizes play a pivotal role in drill hole planning and estimation accuracies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A review of Climate-Smart system innovations in two Agricultural Colleges in the North West Province of South Africa
- Authors: Van Staden, Wilma
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crops and climate South Africa North-West , Sustainable agriculture South Africa North-West , Agriculture Environmental aspects South Africa North-West , Agricultural colleges Curricula South Africa , Agricultural innovations , Agricultural ecology South Africa North-West
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63426 , vital:28410
- Description: This study was centred on the Agricultural Innovation System in the North West Province, South Africa as a response to climate change. The study developed during a time when Climate-Smart Agriculture emerged in policy and was developed as a strategic agricultural innovation process in response to changes in climate that increased food insecurity. The Agricultural Colleges embedded in the agricultural system realised that they were teaching students without a clear provision for climate change and therefore needed to initiate climate responsive innovations to comply with the Climate-Smart strategy that had been proposed by the provincial authorities. This provided the context for the study to track and support the innovation process of transitioning towards Climate-Smart responsive curriculum and learning practices within the system. A theoretical framework for the study was developed using a Cultural Historical Activity Theory perspective. This allowed the researcher to approach the research process as two case studies of innovation within the Agricultural Innovation System of the North West Province. The study developed as an iterative process of innovation support and tracking. At the early stages of the research process, data were generated through document analysis and a survey completed by the research participants at the preliminary consultative workshop. The contextual data allowed the researcher to begin to develop a clear contextual profile for both case studies. The consultative workshops were held to orientate the research around the central problems and challenges related to curriculum alignment with provincial Climate-Smart Agricultural policies. The methodology thereafter was developed as an iterative process of successive intervention-innovation workshops where the participating staff in each college reviewed their curriculum with the support of a Climate-Smart Innovation Tool. This tool was developed as a mediating resource for participants to undertake intervention work towards curriculum innovation in their context. The historical analysis from the two consultative workshops and the data derived from the initial use of the Climate-Smart Innovation Tool was used to model the activity systems in the respective colleges and the provincial system. This analysis enabled the researcher to scope how the system was currently functioning and how it had changed over time. During the workshops, curriculum innovations were reviewed and a fuller picture of the challenges of system innovation emerged, especially from a curriculum innovation vantage point. This system analysis was used to analyse emergent tensions and contradictions within the system and to build a picture of the complexities of participating staff initiating innovations towards Climate-Smart responsiveness in the colleges and within the Agricultural Innovation System. During the review and tracking of the supported innovation process the Climate-Smart Innovation Tool was developed into online sub-tools where either Departments or individual lecturers could review and track their own Climate-Smart responsiveness. The tool was shown to be a useful tool for surfacing contradictions, and identifying absences, and thus for charting out the start of reflexive learning and change processes needed for introducing climate responsive knowledge into the system. The study reveals that catalysing of curriculum and learning system innovation aligned with wider innovations in the agricultural innovation system requires specific tools, time and the understanding of the importance of micro-level innovation. The innovations within the system revealed the significance of allowing for time and processes that facilitate ‘ascending’ from the abstract concept of Climate-Smart Agriculture into more concrete curriculum processes. The curriculum review tool developed for this study served as an important double stimulation tool, along with activity system mapping, and ongoing refinement and clarification of the object of Climate-Smart Agriculture and associated contradictions and action plans for climate smart responsiveness in the college context. The tools and processes that were developed during this study, assisting in the emergence of micro-level innovation of the curriculum and learning system. The barriers and processes hampering curriculum and learning innovation within the system were identified. The study concludes with the recommendations on how a Climate-Smart innovation process might best be supported with reflexive tools within a curriculum and learning system during a time of institutional flux.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Van Staden, Wilma
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crops and climate South Africa North-West , Sustainable agriculture South Africa North-West , Agriculture Environmental aspects South Africa North-West , Agricultural colleges Curricula South Africa , Agricultural innovations , Agricultural ecology South Africa North-West
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63426 , vital:28410
- Description: This study was centred on the Agricultural Innovation System in the North West Province, South Africa as a response to climate change. The study developed during a time when Climate-Smart Agriculture emerged in policy and was developed as a strategic agricultural innovation process in response to changes in climate that increased food insecurity. The Agricultural Colleges embedded in the agricultural system realised that they were teaching students without a clear provision for climate change and therefore needed to initiate climate responsive innovations to comply with the Climate-Smart strategy that had been proposed by the provincial authorities. This provided the context for the study to track and support the innovation process of transitioning towards Climate-Smart responsive curriculum and learning practices within the system. A theoretical framework for the study was developed using a Cultural Historical Activity Theory perspective. This allowed the researcher to approach the research process as two case studies of innovation within the Agricultural Innovation System of the North West Province. The study developed as an iterative process of innovation support and tracking. At the early stages of the research process, data were generated through document analysis and a survey completed by the research participants at the preliminary consultative workshop. The contextual data allowed the researcher to begin to develop a clear contextual profile for both case studies. The consultative workshops were held to orientate the research around the central problems and challenges related to curriculum alignment with provincial Climate-Smart Agricultural policies. The methodology thereafter was developed as an iterative process of successive intervention-innovation workshops where the participating staff in each college reviewed their curriculum with the support of a Climate-Smart Innovation Tool. This tool was developed as a mediating resource for participants to undertake intervention work towards curriculum innovation in their context. The historical analysis from the two consultative workshops and the data derived from the initial use of the Climate-Smart Innovation Tool was used to model the activity systems in the respective colleges and the provincial system. This analysis enabled the researcher to scope how the system was currently functioning and how it had changed over time. During the workshops, curriculum innovations were reviewed and a fuller picture of the challenges of system innovation emerged, especially from a curriculum innovation vantage point. This system analysis was used to analyse emergent tensions and contradictions within the system and to build a picture of the complexities of participating staff initiating innovations towards Climate-Smart responsiveness in the colleges and within the Agricultural Innovation System. During the review and tracking of the supported innovation process the Climate-Smart Innovation Tool was developed into online sub-tools where either Departments or individual lecturers could review and track their own Climate-Smart responsiveness. The tool was shown to be a useful tool for surfacing contradictions, and identifying absences, and thus for charting out the start of reflexive learning and change processes needed for introducing climate responsive knowledge into the system. The study reveals that catalysing of curriculum and learning system innovation aligned with wider innovations in the agricultural innovation system requires specific tools, time and the understanding of the importance of micro-level innovation. The innovations within the system revealed the significance of allowing for time and processes that facilitate ‘ascending’ from the abstract concept of Climate-Smart Agriculture into more concrete curriculum processes. The curriculum review tool developed for this study served as an important double stimulation tool, along with activity system mapping, and ongoing refinement and clarification of the object of Climate-Smart Agriculture and associated contradictions and action plans for climate smart responsiveness in the college context. The tools and processes that were developed during this study, assisting in the emergence of micro-level innovation of the curriculum and learning system. The barriers and processes hampering curriculum and learning innovation within the system were identified. The study concludes with the recommendations on how a Climate-Smart innovation process might best be supported with reflexive tools within a curriculum and learning system during a time of institutional flux.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018