"The wife of Lucifer" : women and evil in Charles Dickens
- Authors: Ebelthite, Candice Axell
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Dickens, Charles, 1812-1870 -- Characters -- Women Evil in literature Women in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2189 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002231
- Description: This thesis examines Dickens's presentation of evil women. In the course of my reading I discovered that most of the evil women in his novels are mothers, or mother-figures, a finding which altered the nature of my interpretation and led to closer examination of these characters, rather than the prostitutes and criminals who may have been viewed negatively by Nineteenth century society and thereby condemned as evil. Among the many unsympathetically portrayed mothers and mother-figures in Dickens's works, the three that are most interesting are Lady Dedlock, Miss Havisham, and Mrs Skewton. Madame Defarge initiates the discussion, however, as a seminal figure among the many evil women in the novels. Psychoanalytical and socio-historic readings grounded in Nineteenth century conceptions of womanhood provide background material for this thesis. Though useful and informative, however, these areas of study are not sufficient in themselves. The theory that shapes the arguments of this thesis is defined by Steven Cohan, who argues strongly that the demand for psychological coherence as a requisite of character obscures the imaginative power of character as textual construct, and who both refutes and develops character theory as it is argued by Baruch Hochman. Cohan's theory is also finally closer to that outlined by Thomas Docherty, who provides a complex reading of character as ultimately "unknowable".
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
"Ufunda de ufe" : the story of a village psychologist in a rural, South African school setting
- Authors: Theunissen, Maureen Ezelle
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Participant observation , Rural children -- Education -- South Africa , Life skills -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004538 , Participant observation , Rural children -- Education -- South Africa , Life skills -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Description: In 2001, participatory research, incorporating various participatory rural appraisal techniques, was conducted in five, rural, primary schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The participatory research was aimed at identifying and addressing schools' needs in terms of lifeskills education in a changing South Africa and educational environment. This whole process has been written up as a case study and further analysed in an attempt to describe the emerging role of the psychologist, working in participation with educators, in this kind of setting. Going beyond description, the researcher reflects upon the function and nature of the role of the psychologist within the developmental participatory process. In doing so, the article addresses the need for participatory research results to be further analysed in generating theory, particularly within Psychology. The article highlights some of the strengths of qualitative research, and the primacy of the personal in that endeavour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A case study of the language policy in practice in the foundation phase of schooling
- Authors: Brookes, Margaret Ann
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1442 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003323
- Description: This interpretative case study takes place in the foundation phase of a previously parallel medium school in the Eastern Cape. Learners from all three major language groups of the province (English, Xhosa and Afrikaans) are enrolled at the school. The study examines the language attitudes of teachers, parents and young learners and records their language practices in the classroom, the wider school environment and at home. Research carried out through this case study found that all stakeholders perceive English as the language of access to improved education and lifestyle. All young learners displayed a positive attitude to multilingualism and were keen to be able to speak all three provincial languages. The attitudes of their parents and teachers however differed from the learners and each other. The teachers and the English speaking parents were primarily concerned with the maintenance of the standards of English. The Afrikaans and Xhosa speaking parents were committed to their children developing proficient English language skills even if this meant supporting the development of their primary language and culture at home. Furthermore it was discovered that little attention had been paid to developing a school language policy in accordance with the new Language in Education Policy of July 1997. This policy promotes an additive approach to bilingualism and seeks to ensure that meaningful access to learning is provided for all children. By suggesting steps that could be taken by this school to develop their own language policy, the study highlights the necessity of recognising and remedying the gaps between policy and practice in the issue of language rights, identity and education in general.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A comparative study of atmospheric dynamics in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) near Grahamstown (South Africa) and Adelaide (Australia)
- Authors: Malinga, Sandile Bethuel
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Atmospheric physics Atmospheric physics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Atmospheric physics -- Australia Dynamic meteorology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5506 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007307
- Description: The observations made near Grahamstown (33 .3°S, 26.5°E), South Africa and Adelaide (34.5°S, 138.5°E), Australia over the years 1987 to 1994 are used to study the dynamics of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (ML T) region with a focus on ∼ 90 km altitude. In particular this thesis deals with on the atmospheric mean flow and the solar diurnal and semi diurnal oscillations with a view to (i) deducing their patterns at the two sites, (ii) comparing the dynamic structures observed at the two sites with special emphases on longitudinal variations, and (iii) putting these observations in a global context by comparing with other ground-based observations, satellite observations and numerical simulations. The main findings are summarised below. The mean flow and the tides at Grahamstown and Adelaide are characteristically variable at planetary time scales. Wavelet spectral and multiresolution analyses reveal that the dominant planetary oscillation is the quasi-16-day oscillation. However, no apparent correlation in the 16-day waves of the mean flow, the diurnal tide and the semidiurnal tide was found. The short-term fluctuations were also investigated using complex demodulation and bispectral techniques and it was found that some of the observed variations in tides could be due to non-linear wave-wave interactions. The long-term trends of the mean flow and tides show patterns that are in broad agreement with theory, results from elsewhere (ground-based and satellite) and the results of the Global-Scale Wave Model and various models by Portnyagin and others. In general the mean flow, the amplitudes and phases of both tides were found to exhibit seasonal and interannual variations which are thought to be related to various factors including (i) changes in the atmospheric mean environment, (ii) thermotidal forcing (iii) gravity wave effects, (iv) planetary scale influence, (v) long-term (e.g. quasi-biennial oscillation) modulation, and (vi) solar activity. There are significant longitudinal differences in the dynamic structure between Grahamstown and Adelaide. More especially, Grahamstown tends to have stronger mean flow and tidal activity than Adelaide. For tides, these differences are thought to be partly due to nonmigrating tidal modes but, in general, migrating modes were found to be dominant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A critical investigation into the managerial implications of inclusive education
- Authors: Cloete, Sanet
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1477 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003358
- Description: Special needs education has always provided special challenges to school administrators, policy makers and teachers. The world-wide move towards inclusive education as an alternative to exclusive education or casual mainstreaming has resulted in significant developments in Namibia in the past decade. Global educational reforms have focused on education for all as well as inclusive education and Namibia is signatory to several conventions and declarations in this regard. Research in this field has largely focused on the role of the inclusive teacher, and of course the special needs of the learners. Little or no attention has been paid to possible managerial and organisational challenges which accompany the move to inclusive education. This thesis seeks to critically investigate the managerial implications of inclusive education. The focal point of this research is to gain a clear understanding of the managerial implications in an inclusive school for learners with visual impairment, chiefly through an exploration of the experiences of management members of the inclusive process. The research is located within a qualitative research paradigm, which is subsumed by a phenomenological model. The data gathered through in-depth interviews include many anecdotal accounts that provide insight into the ways respondents reacted to experiences at the inclusive school. The main findings of the research are highlighted and discussed. Recommendations arising from a critical analysis of these main findings are presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A critical review of literature on the expected roles of principals in schools
- Authors: Madaza, Simbongile Simphiwe
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: School principals -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa Educational change -- South Africa Educational leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007243
- Description: Schools, like all organizations, are undergoing radical changes in the way that their business is conducted. "One of the most significant of these is that leadership, rather than management, needs to be seen as the most crucial focus for institutional development and growth in the years ahead," (Whitaker, 1993). In these projects I focus on three dimensions of leadership. First, a critical review of literature on the expected roles of principals in schools. Second, a case study of change management at a South African senior secondary school; and finally, a situational analysis of my organization with regard to organizational structure, leadership, decision making, communication and interpersonal relationships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A description of spatial and temporal aspects of the lifecycle of chokka squid Loligo vulgaris reynaudii on the inshore spawning grounds and Agulhas bank off the South Coast of South Africa
- Authors: Olyott, Leonard James Henry
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Squids -- South Africa , Loliginidae -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5253 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005096 , Squids -- South Africa , Loliginidae -- South Africa
- Description: The chokka squid, Loligo vulgaris reynaudii, is a commercially important species supporting a large, high-value export fishery for South Africa. This study reviewed its population dynamics and reproductive biology. Biological information collected on biannual research cruises from September 1986 to April 1999 on the Agulhas Bank as well as information from commercial vessels operating in the inshore environment collected between April 1988 and July 1989 and again between June 1999 and May 2000 were analysed. Size ranges of juveniles, subadults and adults were calculated and used to determine seasonal distribution and abundance patterns. Based on Gonadosomatic Indices (GSI) and percentages of mature squid in each month, two peak reproductive seasons in summer and winter were identified although mature squid were present all year round. Seasonal peaks in sex ratio were also apparent with males outnumbering females by up to 4:1 in the peak-breeding season. The size at which squid matured, demonstrated both spatial and temporal patterns. Squid caught in spring matured at a smaller size than squid caught in autumn and at successively smaller sizes from west to east across the Agulhas Bank. Size at maturity was highly variable especially in males where “sneaker males” were evident in both seasons. Length-to-weight linear regression revealed significant differences between maturity stages and between sexes. Females demonstrated steeper length-to-weight regression slopes than males in the peak-breeding seasons. Aspects of squid biology pertinent to fishery management were highlighted as well as potential areas where research should be directed in order to develop future stock assessment models.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A historical study of John Graham Lake and South African/United States pentecostalism
- Authors: Burpeau, Kemp Pendleton
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Lake, John G , Pentecostalism -- South Africa , Pentecostalism -- United States , Pentecostals , Christianity and politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2587 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006484 , Lake, John G , Pentecostalism -- South Africa , Pentecostalism -- United States , Pentecostals , Christianity and politics -- South Africa
- Description: American minister John Graham Lake (1870-1935) was a pivotal participant in an era of profound religious and political transition. Surprisingly, Lake's often provocative life had previously been largely neglected as a field of academic inquiry. In the U.S. Lake associated with key Holiness, Wesleyan and Apostolic Faith charismatics like John Alexander Dowie of the Zion City, Illinois Utopia, Charles Parham of the Topeka Revival and William Seymour of the Azusa Street Revival. Lake served as an important intermediary between Parham's often reactionary, white orientation that was unreceptive to an enthusiastic black liturgy and Seymour's expansive African-American egalitarianism expressed through exuberant spirit manifestations. Lake's South African ministry was shaped by his middle class white business background, Azusa Street message and American perspectives. He brought together the faith healing movement inspired by Dutch Reformed minister Andrew Murray, P. Ie Roux's black and white Zion charismatic adherents affiliated with Dowie and the new U.S. Pentecostalism of Parham and Seymour. Lake's African-American influenced Pentecostalism was compatible with indigenous African worship. His emphasis on the spiritual needs of the disempowered found a receptive audience in talented black evangelists Elias Letwaba and Edward Lion. Even though acquainted with Mohandas Gandhi, Lake did not undertake a South African social gospel-type civil protest against societal injustice. In fact, Lake's participation with Afrikaner politicians like Louis Botha in fashioning a segregationist land use law was most troubling. Lake was ambivalent about racial integration. His belief in an egalitarian status for all Christians, his Populist/Progressive ethics and his enthusiastic promotion of women's rights were complicated by his advocacy, or at least tolerance, of some disparate racial treatment in his Apostolic Faith Mission and South African society at large. Lake's paternalism and notion of Westem cultural superiority conflicted with his love of all persons. Lake's otherworldly prioritization of individual spiritualism over a socioeconomic agenda usually stymied activism. His uncharacteristic use of nonviolent protest to protect faith healing formed a remarkable contrast with his reluctance to actively campaign against unequal racial treatment in Africa and America. Historiographical perspectives on Lake range from the saintly pioneer charismatic missionary to the Elmer Gantry type charlatan acting only for personal benefit. Lake was a unique personality with his flamboyant rhetoric, strong convictions and feelings of personal worth. His distinctive Jesus as healing and suffering God theology evidenced both consistency with precedent as well as creative anticipation. Shortcomings resulting from his preference to address social concerns on an individual spiritual rather than societal level, his liberties with truth and his bad business judgments resulting in litigation. Nevertheless, Lake's life demonstrated that a gifted but imperfect instrument could accomplish a meaningful ministry. , Adobe Acrobat Pro 9.5.4 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A history of confession: the dialogue between cynicism and grace in selected novels of J.M. Coetzee
- Authors: Hornby, Catherine Muriel
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Cynicism in literature , Grace (Theology) in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002232 , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Cynicism in literature , Grace (Theology) in literature
- Description: In introducing the four novels under discussion as a “History of Confession”, this study explores the resistance to the dominant discourse of ‘history’ offered by the sustained confessions of individuals. In examining Coetzee’s oeuvre it is possible to delineate the outline of a dialogue between cynicism and grace, and the effects of these on the process of confession in each of the works Chapter One, dealing with Age of Iron, draws on Levinas’ theory of ‘the Other’ in order to elucidate the role played by the interlocutor or confessor in the process of confession.The recognition of the passage of the self through the Other is integral to the attainment of a state of grace, without which confession cannot be brought to an end The countermanding claims of the writer's will-to-write and duty to society are illuminated as a source of cynicism which overwhelms the intervention of grace. The Master of Petersburg, discussed in Chapter Two, is a confession of the guilt and despair faced by the writer who sacrifices his soul to answer the urge to write. Chapter Three, which examines Coetzee’s excursion into autobiography, represents a continuation of the confessional trend. The distance between the narrator and protagonist of Boyhood illustrates the convolutions of self-deception in the process of confession. The chapter which deals with Disgrace identifies a new trend in Coetzee’s writing:the concern with animals. Levinas’ theory, which identifies the encounter with the Other as necessary to precipitate an intervention of grace, is again useful in explaining how Coetzee has postulated the unassimilable otherness of animals as primary to human ethical development. This chapter also concludes that Disgrace represents a high point in the recovery of both grace and agency in Coetzee’s oeuvre.The concluding chapter suggests that the accumulation of meanings to the term ‘grace’enables its definition as a semi-religious abstraction. Coetzee suggests that belief in its existence has the power to affect interactions on the physical plane, especially those between the self and the Other.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A multivariate model of the offence behaviours of South African serial killers
- Authors: Hodgskiss, Brin Allan
- Date: 2013-05-14
- Subjects: Serial murderers -- South Africa -- Psychology Criminal behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007793
- Description: It was hypothesised that there would be behavioural consistencies in the offences of South African serial killers. The themes underlying these observable differences can help us understand the nature of these offences. Crime scene data was ohtained from police records, and structured, in-depth offender interviews. 73 offences, committed by 13 offenders, were analysed. The analysis used Smallest Space Analysis (SSA), a Multidimensional scaling (MDS) procedure. This analysis revealed systematic patterns of behaviour in the offences. It was found that the focus of these offences is an impersonal, hostile, and act-focused murder were the victim is treated as a depersonalised object. Empirical support for an underlying thematic structure to these offences was also provided. The offence themes identified relate to the nature of the actions committed during the offence, and the function these actions had for the offender. These fmdings thus support the hypothesis that these offences will display meaningful behavioural variation. These findings have direct utility in the investigation and study of serial killing in South Aflica. They also provide the basis for comparison with previously suggested typologies of serial killing, and indicate directions for future research into this phenomenon in the South African setting. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
A phenomenological investigation of Windhoek Senior Secondary school principals' perceptions and experiences of their leadership roles
- Authors: Boys, Ben
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: School principals -- Namibia Educational leadership -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1700 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003583
- Description: Namibia, having been a former colony of South Africa, was equally subjected to apartheid laws and practices. Independence, achieved in March 1990, signaled the dawn of a new era of access, equity, quality and democracy in the Namibian education sector. A unified system of educational administration, management, and control was established. The whole educational corps, especially the principals of all our schools, is expected to implement this new system as agents of change. In terms of the vision for a new Namibia, therefore, school principals are seen as occupying positions of central importance. This notion resonates strongly with recent and contemporary leadership thinking. However, a number of concerns prevalent in schools - particularly, increasing student underperformance, worsening disciplinary problems, increasing teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS pandemic, teacher qualification, decreasing teacher motivation, lack of training including induction for principals, inadequate support from the top (lack of a support system) and insufficient parental involvement in school matters – make the task of running schools extremely challenging and increasingly complex. How do principals experience these challenges and deal with the complex situations? How do they perceive their role, particularly in light of national aspirations and leadership theory? These are questions I think need to be explored. My research goal was to gain an understanding of Windhoek senior secondary school principals’ perceptions and experiences of their leadership role. My focus was on three purposively selected Windhoek senior secondary school principals representative of both the Namibian ethno-cultural diversity and gender. Data was collected through interviews. I found that the situations in which the principals found themselves during the pre- and post independent periods mainly determined their leadership style and behaviour, however, that did not deter their vision for the transformation of the society, as the ultimate objective and essence of their leadership. The appropriate practicing of their leadership role was being hampered by lack of induction and training, lack of a support system and insufficient parental involvement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
A taxonomic revision of the genus Bergeranthus Schwantes (Mesembryanthemaceae) in South Africa
- Authors: Dold, Anthony P
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Aizoaceae -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4248 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007481 , Aizoaceae -- South Africa
- Description: The genus Bergeranthus Schwantes comprises ten species ofleaf-succulent Mesembryanthemaceae that are centred in the Albany centre of endemism and restricted to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. No taxonomic revision of the genus, or key to the species of Bergeranthus, has been undertaken since its description by Schwantes in 1926. The species concepts are mostly based on single, or at best severaL cultivated plants and are notoriously narrow and in some cases incorrect. Louisa Bolus described five of the ten currently recognized species of Bergeranthus (as well as B. cookii, B.firmus, B. glenensis, B.jamesii, and B. longisepalus) from cultivated plants that she had never seen in the wild. This narrow species concept, compounded by morphological change that occurs in response to environmental factors, presents an assemblage of ill-defmed and poorly known taxa that have been prioritised for taxonomic attention by various authors. Furthermore, the generic delimitation of Bergeranthus with the closely related genera Rhombophyllum and Hereroa is unclear and requires attention before generic revisions are attempted for all three genera. The taxonomic revision presented here is based on a study of 210 wild populations of Bergeranthus as well as cultivated representatives of these and 135 herbarium specimens. A phenetic analysis based on 36 vegetative characters was initially used to delimit taxa. Thereafter sixty-three macro- and micro-morphological characters were critically assessed for the purposes of species delimitation, amendment of existing species descriptions and the description of two new species. Macromorphological characters examined included rootstock, leaf(36), inflorescence, floral (nine), fruit (nine), seed germination and seedling characters. Micro-morphological characters examined included leaf anatomy, leaf epidermal wax layer, anther shape and point of adherence, pollen and seed characters. This revision reduces two species into synonymy and two new species, B. albomarginatus and B. nanus, are described. Existing species descriptions are improved and all species are illustrated. A key to species is provided. The reproductive biology, ecology, phytogeography and distribution data of the genus are discussed towards an improved understanding of the genus. The generic delimitation of Bergeranthus and its closest relatives, Rhombophyllum and Hereroa, are discussed based on an examination of 25 morphological characters and two phenological characters and a provisional key to genera is provided. A phylogenetic analysis of all 10 species of Bergeranthus, both species of Rhombophyllum and a single species of Hereroa (H. granulata) was undertaken to support species and generic delimitation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Accelerated carbon dioxide deliming of cattle hides and sheepskins
- Authors: Flowers, Karl Bernard
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Tanning , Hides and skins , Carbon dioxide
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3918 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003977 , Tanning , Hides and skins , Carbon dioxide
- Description: To avoid environmental pressure from water authorities, specifically regarding nitrogen and sulfate limits in tannery wastewater, modifications to existing deliming processes have been made. Conventional ammonium salt deliming methods contribute to Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen values in the region of 0.5 – 1.0g/L (33-67% of total TKN). Sulfate levels are increased with the use of organic deliming and ammonium sulfate deliming to the extent of 0.9g/L (27% of total sulfate). To understand the dynamics and kinetics of carbon dioxide equilibrium, the movement of carbon dioxide into deliming water, through carbonic acid, bicarbonate and ultimately into carbonates at liming or early deliming pH was studied. It was shown in this study that effective lime removal, at optimum conditions, resulted in fully delimed pelts at highly comparable quality and times compared to conventional ammonium salt deliming
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Action research : exploring the use [of] print media as a resource in the teaching of English as a second language
- Authors: Letsoalo, Matome David
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Action research in education , English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2376 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005962 , Action research in education , English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Description: South African education has been going through a process of transformation: from a traditional, transmission system to one of a more progressive nature. In the new curriculum, Curriculum 2005 anchored on Outcomes-based Education (OBE), focus is laid on critical reflection, innovation and creativity by classroom participants. Learning situations are expected to promote flexibility, co-operation and relevance of teaching/learning materials. This research looks at these aspects in the English Second Language (ESL) situation where print media articles are used as resource. Other than being a rich resource for language, print media texts have been found to be appropriate for this exploration because of their potential to offer opportunities for critical reflection and interaction with authentic issues. Unlike uncritical reliance on textbooks, the proper use of media articles can give the teachers and learners the space to select relevant and exciting materials for their situations. In this study, the research was done through action research where I (the researcher) actually taught the lessons in collaboration with the English teacher. The teaching method was influenced by the Freirean style of Iiberatory teaching where critical reflection, socio-political relevance and co-operation are crucial elements. The action research was done in two cycles. Experiences in the first cycle pointed to, among other aspects, the fact that the learners could not work in a co-operative way as they were not used to it. Addressing this problem consequently became the basis of the second cycle where the skills of co-operative learning were taught before the learners engaged in further lessons. The conclusions drawn from this research point to the importance of the teacher as an agent in the learning process if the demands of progressive and liberatory teaching are to be met. It has thus been concluded that elements such as critical thinking, creativity, flexibility and selection/development of relevant materials presuppose the existence of a well-trained teacher who is skilled and able to make these possible. In the light of my findings, my major recommendation is that teacher development needs to be strengthened so that more emphasis is placed on enhancing the teacher's ability to critique texts and improve his or her own practice, acquiring the skills to teach in a critical way and achieving the learning competencies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Alkane oxidation using metallophthalocyanine as homogeneous catalysts
- Authors: Grootboom, Natasha Denise
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Oxidation , Alkanes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4449 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007794
- Description: Iron polychlorophthalocyanine (FePc(Cl)₁₆) and tetrasulfophthalocyanine ([M¹¹TSPc]⁴) complexes of iron, cobalt and manganese are employed as catalysts for the oxidation of cyclohexane using tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP), chloroperoxybenzoic acid (CPBA) and hydrogen peroxide as oxidants. Catalysis using the FePc(Cl)₁₆ was performed in a dimethylformamide:dichloromethane (3 :7) solvent mixture. For the [Fe¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻, [Co¹¹TSPc]⁻ and [Mn¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻catalysts, a water:methanol (1:9) mixture was employed. The products of the catalysis are cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol and cyclohexanediol. The relative percentage yields, percentage selectivity and overall percentage conversion of the products depended on types of oxidant, or catalyst, concentrations of substrate or catalysts and temperature. TBHP was found to be the best oxidant since minimal destruction of the catalyst and higher selectivity in the products were observed when this oxidant was employed. Of the four catalysts investigated [Fe¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻ yielded the highest overall percentage conversion of 20%.The mechanism of the oxidation of cyclohexane in the presence of the FePc(Cl)₁₆ and [M¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻ involves the oxidation of these catalysts, forming an Fe(IlI) phthalocyanine species as an intermediate. Electrocatalysis using [Co¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻ as catalyst, employed an aqueous pH 7 buffer medium for electro-oxidation of 4-pentenoic acid. An enone is suggested as the only oxidation product of 4-pentenoic acid. No degradation of [Co¹¹TSPc]⁴⁻ was observed during the electrocatalytic process. In this process water was used as a source of oxygen therefore eliminating the production of by products from oxidant as in the case of TBHP and CPBA. This system was studied In an attempt to set up conditions for alkane electrocatalytic oxidation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An analysis of the trawl and longline fisheries for Merluccius capensis off the west coast of South Africa
- Authors: Fairweather, Tracey Pamela
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Fisheries -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5218 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005061 , Fisheries -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa
- Description: The South African hake resource faces divergent fishing pressures and management issues. Although the resource consists of two species, management was simplified because the resource was only subject to trawl effort and because of the similarity in population parameters, single species assessment models could be adopted. The impact of trawling on the stock is considered to be well understood and the resource has shown recovery since exclusion of foreign vessels. The 1990s were punctuated by major political change and the need for transformation has resulted in an expansion of the number of fishing rights holders. Longlining has been reintroduced and there is no clear understanding of how the combined fishing pressures will affect the population structure of either Merluccius capensis or M. paradoxus. Information is vital to successful management. Fisheries are complex and intricate, and at times appear impossible to control or monitor. An integrated information system provides easily understood graphical explanations of complex issues. This thesis assessed the dynamics of the trawl and longline fisheries between 1994 and 1999 using a geographical information system (GIS). The accessability of a GIS incorporates the needs of scientists, managers and fishing communities. The simple GIS developed in this study revealed shifts in effort, facilitated the calculation of spatially precise catches and biomasses and highlighted the inadequacy of current sampling coverage. Trawlers were shown to fish the same areas consistently during the years investigated, with highest fishing intensity and average CPUE achieved at depths between 300 and 500m. Analysis of the longline sector revealed several similarities to the trawl sector, fishing intensity was highest between 301 and 500m, suggesting that both sectors face a "friction of distance" dilemma. The distribution and abundance of hake, in particular the exploitable proportion of the population, was determined by a combination of depth and substrate type. The selectivity patterns of trawlers and longliners were briefly investigated with the results illustrating that gear selectivity of the M. capensis stock was depth dependent. The deeper fishing occurred, the larger the length-at-selection. As a result, the M. capensis parental stock faces unprecedented fishing pressure. In the absence of reliable species-specific catch data, logistic and linear regression models were developed to split the hake catch into its respective species components. Large discrepancies between the predicted M. capensis catch for the two models were noted. Regression estimates constructed at a finer spatial scale may provide a better fit than the current depth logistic employed by Marine and Coastal Management. A first attempt at assessing the M. capensis resource on the West Coast using an age-structured production model was presented. It was found that a lengthy and accurate M. capensis catch series is required before it is possible to successfully model the dynamics of the stock. It is necessary to incorporate finer spatial detail in the collation of catch data and collection of sampling data. It would be unadvisable to assume that the stock is stable or recovering. The implications of a size/sex relationship must be investigated and properly appraised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An assessment of the genetic diversity and origin of the invasive weed Chromolaena Odorata (L.) King and Robinson in South Africa
- Authors: Von Senger, Inge
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Biodiversity -- South Africa , Chromolaena odorata -- Biological control -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003802 , Biodiversity -- South Africa , Chromolaena odorata -- Biological control -- South Africa
- Description: Chromolaena odorata (L.) King and Robinson is an alien invasive weed to most of the Old World tropical regions of the earth, including South Africa where it is morphologically distinct from most other C. odorata plants examined from both its native and invasive range. It is thought that these morphological differences are related to difficulties encountered in successful establishment of biological control agents on the South African population of C. odorata. It has been postulated that the source population of the South African population will harbour potential biocontrol agents that will be suited to successful establishment on the South African plants. Several morphological, cytological and isozyme studies have been attempted to identify the source population of the South African population, but these have failed to identify the origin of the South African population. In this dissertation two PCR-based methods were attempted, in an investigation into whether the morphological differences and difficulties in establishment of biocontrol agents have a genetic basis. The two techniques attempted were: Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) amplification, and DNA sequencing. Results could not be obtained using the ISSR method, and the reason for this was not discovered despite extensive trials. The internal transcribed spacer region and the external transcribed spacer region sequences were obtained from five samples, and compared. It was found that the ETS region gave more phylogenetic signal at the intraspecific level than the ITS region. However, due to difficulties in amplification of the external transcribed spacer region, work here focussed on obtaining Internal Transcribed Spacer sequences for 61 samples. Each of the samples sequenced had a unique ITS sequence, displaying a high level of intraspecific genetic diversity. The degree of this diversity is discussed with reference to the possible influences of polyploidy and concerted evolution on genetic structure. The ITS data indicated that some of the physical traits used to define ‘morphotypes’ of C. odorata were not correlated to genotype. From discussion and comparison of morphological character distributions and the ITS-based phylogeography it is suggested that the geographical origin of the South African population is Greater Antilelan, rather than from the continents of North and South America, which is where the Australasian, West African and Mauritian infestations are suggested to have originated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An assessment of the impact of the black village communities, their associated land-use and related practices on water quality of the Kat River in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Soviti, Malixole Knottien
- Date: 2002 , 2013-05-16
- Subjects: Water quality -- South Africa -- Kat River , Water -- Pollution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004638 , Water quality -- South Africa -- Kat River , Water -- Pollution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Amongst others, the South African National Water Act No. 36 of 1998 acknowledges that access to sufficient safe and clean water is a basic right to all South Africans. However, it is well known that millions of inhabitants of rural communities in South Africa are still deprived of this right. Many rural communities in South Africa are thus consuming unsafe, untreated water everyday, thereby exposing themselves to waterborne diseases. The main reason of concern however is the fact that, nevertheless, little is known about rural water quality in South Africa as most water quality work is being undertaken in urban areas. The study's aim is twofold: first, the study examines the impact of Black rural communities' land-use and related activities on water quality and second is specifically, to study the washing practices of the rural communities in the upper Kat River area. To understand the potential impacts of the upper Kat River Black village communities and their associated land-use practices on the quality of upper Kat River catchment, prominent land-use and related activities in the area were investigated. Study area maps were studied and field surveys undertaken to observe major land-use and related activities in the area. The results of the study show that most used land in the area is being utilised for agricultural activities. Settlements and commercial forestry also occupy considerable areas of land. The literature survey suggests that such land-use could have a considerable degrading impact on the quality of both surface and groundwater. The study also investigated the impact of the in-stream use of detergents on water quality in the upper Kat River valley, Eastern Cape - South Africa. In-stream washing practices of certain communities in the upper Kat River valley were investigated and the impact of detergents on water quality was assessed. Recovery of the flow from the input of detergents was also measured. During the study, it has been ascertained that doing laundry by the stream is the common practice in the study area. Water quality analysis results show a remarkable increase on the levels of chloride, turbidity, and electrical conductivity in water as a consequence of direct input of detergents practice into the river during the washing. The recovery of the water quality at a distance of 1km from site of input was almost complete. Water quality monitoring programme was undertaken to establish a link between land-use and the quality of water. In a water quality study routine carried out for a period of 40 weeks on a twice monthly frequency, the state of the flows of the river was determined; water samples were collected at pre-determined points; and the in situ analysis of selected water quality variables (with the exception of the faecal coliforms whose analysis was carried out in the biotechnology laboratory) was carried out. Results of the study showed that the concentration of the studied water quality variables in the area varied widely with time. A clear distinction in concentration of variables such as electrical conductivity, turbidity, pH, total hardness, chloride, and nitrate was evident at the high compared to the low flow period of the study. The concentration of the studied water quality variables in the upper Kat River catchment area also seemed to vary over space. The concentration of variables such as electrical conductivity, pH, total hardness, chloride, nitrate, potassium, number of faecal coliform bacteria per 100ml was observed to be higher in most of the tributary streams than the main river. Turbidity however was orders of magnitude higher in the Kat River than the rest of the tributaries. Most importantly however, results of the study showed that there is a strong link between the quality of water and land-use and related activities in the area. The spatial results of the study showed a strong connection between some land-use and the concentrations of water quality variables. For example, areas of intense grazing were noted with high concentrations of nutrients like nitrate and a higher number of faecal coliform bacteria per 100 ml of water. It was established during the study that land-use and related activities in the upper Kat River valley are negatively impacting on the quality of water thereby rendering it less fit for use for domestic purposes. The continued use of the polluted water by the communities is thus accompanied by a danger of the outbreak of waterborne diseases like cholera. When the concerned communities met in a workshop to discuss the issue of quality of their water, they committed themselves to: • shunning water polluting activities, • at least boiling their drinking water before consuming it. The communities also requested a meeting with the Department of Water and Forestry officials to request a treated, piped supply of water. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An exploration of functional and numerical flexibility in South African organisations: a qualitative study in two textile factories in Cape Town
- Authors: Sela, Ronit
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Case studies , Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:3347 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006149 , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Case studies , Industrial management -- South Africa
- Description: During this research, an attempt was made to gain an understanding of management and their employees' perceptions regarding functional and numerical flexibility practices within South African organisations. To achieve this, twenty-six people, comprising of a variability of positions within the organisation, were interviewed in the region of the Western Cape. It was found that, although extensive research on the two forms of flexibility have been globally conducted, South African literature, particularly on the part of numerical flexibility, is limited. It is thus believed that this study will present a valuable basis to pursue in further research. Literature that was consulted was found to be supportive of the theoretical notion that South African organisations, in order to be globally competitive, have had to restructure and redefine themselves by ensuring that they make the most efficient and effective use of their human resources. The study found that whilst functional flexibility practices benefit employees in that they experienced increased job satisfaction and job mobility, it was the area of numerical flexibility which raised many dissatisfactions, including those of immense job insecurity and remuneration, both financial and otherwise. The study findings suggest a need for a more comprehensive and employee integrated approach by combining organisational with individual oriented initiatives, and ensuring the trade union's involvement in all facets of functional and numerical flexibility initiatives. The thesis ends with recommendations of various strategies for addressing the concerns of management, employees and the trade union in order to ensure full and proper utilisation of human resources so that the end product, namely job satisfaction, leads to organisational success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
An exploration of the social worker's role in promoting sustainability of poverty alleviating projects
- Authors: Ndude, Peace-Maker Mqokeleli
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa , Social service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:6058 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006664 , Poverty -- South Africa , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa , Social service -- South Africa
- Description: In this research study the researcher attempted to gain an insight on what constitutes sustainability of poverty alleviating projects. Further, the researcher attempted to explore and gain understanding of the role of social worker in promoting sustainability of poverty alleviating projects. Since the literature on sustainability is limited, it is hoped that this study will provide valuable information for further research on the topic. In the limited literature study undertaken however, it was evident that despite the generic service that they provide, social workers have a role to play in community development. It was found that social workers can no longer afford to restrict their service provision to the traditional methods of social work. The egalitarian nature of their profession demands that they occupy the centre stage in poverty alleviation as they are strategically placed between the poor and the decision-makers in government. Eighteen respondents composed of six social workers, six committee members and six community members from six poverty alleviating projects were interviewed. One project from each of the six districts of Tsomo, Nqamakwe, Butterworth, Centane, Idutywa and Willowvale were used in the research study. The fmdings suggested that social workers, committee members and community members have differing opinions on what promotes or impedes sustainability of poverty alleviating projects, All respondents however agreed that participation as well as empowerment through training were basic requirements towards sustainability of poverty alleviating projects. Again the findings agreed with the literature that social workers have an important role to play in promoting sustainability of poverty alleviating projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002