No other world: the poetry of Don Maclennan
- Authors: Robinson, Brendon Kimbale
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Maclennan, Don Maclennan, Don -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002264
- Description: This is a study of the poetry of Don Maclennan in four chapters. Chapter One explores the poetry's deep involvement with the immediate world, and with the being that encounters it. Chapter Two examines the corpus's mistrust of abstract thought, and its suggestions for alternative ways of intepreting (or at least approaching an interpretation of) our existential situation. Chapter Three deals with Maclennan's writing on the subject of death, while the final chapter looks at the response of the poetry to the fact of death: put simply, this is to learn to love the situation we are in, and to record our thoughts for future generations, thus reaching beyond death to share with others the necessarily unique experience of our one and only life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Robinson, Brendon Kimbale
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Maclennan, Don Maclennan, Don -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002264
- Description: This is a study of the poetry of Don Maclennan in four chapters. Chapter One explores the poetry's deep involvement with the immediate world, and with the being that encounters it. Chapter Two examines the corpus's mistrust of abstract thought, and its suggestions for alternative ways of intepreting (or at least approaching an interpretation of) our existential situation. Chapter Three deals with Maclennan's writing on the subject of death, while the final chapter looks at the response of the poetry to the fact of death: put simply, this is to learn to love the situation we are in, and to record our thoughts for future generations, thus reaching beyond death to share with others the necessarily unique experience of our one and only life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Inflation threshold and nonlinearity: implications for inflation targeting in South Africa
- Authors: Morar, Derwina
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Inflation targeting -- South Africa Interest rates -- Effect of inflation on -- South Africa Monetary policy -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:984 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002718
- Description: Following many other central banks around the world, the South African Reserve Bank has adopted inflation targeting as its monetary policy framework. The aim of this is to achieve low levels of inflation in order to attain price stability thereby promoting growth. In South Africa, the chosen band to target is 3%–6%. This has been criticised by many trade unions who are calling for the abandonment of inflation targeting. Despite targeting 3%–6%, it is not known whether this is the optimal inflation range for South Africa. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the inflation threshold level for South Africa using quarterly data for the period 1983 to 2010. The first section determines whether or not there is a long-run relationship between inflation and growth using the Johansen cointegration method. Exogeneity tests determine the causality between these variables. Vector error correction models are estimated if cointegration is found. The second part determines the threshold level of inflation using the method of conditional least squares. The inflation level that maximises the R-squared value and minimises the residual sum of squares gives an indication of the threshold level. The third part of the study determines whether or not inflation volatility has a significant impact on growth. The first part established that there is long-run comovement between inflation and growth.The causality is bidirectional with both variables being endogenous.Findings regarding the threshold level show that the current inflation targeting band of 3%–6% may be extended up to 9.5%. In addition, the range of inflation from 5.5% to 6.5% promotes economic growth in South Africa. Finally, the evidence suggests that inflation volatility does not have a significant impact on economic growth and the focus of policy should be directed towards the level of inflation as has been the case.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Morar, Derwina
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Inflation targeting -- South Africa Interest rates -- Effect of inflation on -- South Africa Monetary policy -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:984 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002718
- Description: Following many other central banks around the world, the South African Reserve Bank has adopted inflation targeting as its monetary policy framework. The aim of this is to achieve low levels of inflation in order to attain price stability thereby promoting growth. In South Africa, the chosen band to target is 3%–6%. This has been criticised by many trade unions who are calling for the abandonment of inflation targeting. Despite targeting 3%–6%, it is not known whether this is the optimal inflation range for South Africa. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the inflation threshold level for South Africa using quarterly data for the period 1983 to 2010. The first section determines whether or not there is a long-run relationship between inflation and growth using the Johansen cointegration method. Exogeneity tests determine the causality between these variables. Vector error correction models are estimated if cointegration is found. The second part determines the threshold level of inflation using the method of conditional least squares. The inflation level that maximises the R-squared value and minimises the residual sum of squares gives an indication of the threshold level. The third part of the study determines whether or not inflation volatility has a significant impact on growth. The first part established that there is long-run comovement between inflation and growth.The causality is bidirectional with both variables being endogenous.Findings regarding the threshold level show that the current inflation targeting band of 3%–6% may be extended up to 9.5%. In addition, the range of inflation from 5.5% to 6.5% promotes economic growth in South Africa. Finally, the evidence suggests that inflation volatility does not have a significant impact on economic growth and the focus of policy should be directed towards the level of inflation as has been the case.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The evaluation of Phenrica sp.2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), as a possible biological control agent for Madeira vine, Anredera cordifolia (Ten.) Steenis in South Africa
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Liamé
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005375 , Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Description: Anredera cordifolia (Basellaceae), Madeira vine, is a perennial, semi- succulent climber native from Paraguay to southern Brazil and northern Argentina. It has a history of weediness and difficulty of control once established. In South Africa Madeira vine has a wide range and distribution with altitudes ranging from 10-1800m above sea level. Described as a transformer species, its sheer weight is capable of breaking branches off trees, causing the potential collapse of forest canopies. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and may provide only temporary relief. A biological control programme was therefore initiated in 2003. Cf Phenrica sp. 2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), was field collected from A. cordifolia in Brazil, SSW of Cascavel in the Paraná Province during a survey in November 2003. Eggs are laid in groups of 16 with the average fertility rate being 89%. After going though three larval instars, the larvae pupate in the soil with the adults eclosing after a period of 17 days. The total developmental time for a generation from egg to egg ranges between 7-8 weeks. Biological traits that favour the flea beetle as a possible biological control agent include long-lived adults (up to 5 months) and multiple generations during the summer period. Both adults and larvae feed extensively on leaves and stems and although developmental rates will slow down during the winter period, no indication of a definite diapause was found under the prevailing laboratory conditions. After completing the larval no-choice trials with twenty-six plant species from 14 plant families Phenrica sp. 2 proved to be adequately host specific, as larval development was only supported by 3 Basellaceae species (including the control A. cordifolia) and one Portulacaceae species. All of these are introduced species in South Africa. The only indigenous Basella species could not be tested as it has a very marginal distribution, and because it’s inconspicuous nature, it is seldom seen or collected. Adult multi-choice trials were restricted to species that could sustain larval development to give some indication of the acceptability of these species for adult feeding and oviposition. Although adult feeding was initially concentrated on B. alba, the oviposition preference was clear-cut as females only oviposited on A. cordifolia. In order to quantify the impact of Phenrica sp. 2 on plant biomass and to assess the incidence and intensity of foliar damage, a pair of adults was confined to the host plant, for 2 generations, with different levels of larval densities. The results indicated that the host plant, due to both larval and adult feeding, suffered leaf losses of up to 55%. Anredera cordifolia was however still capable of enlarging the root mass despite suffering huge leaf losses. This would imply that A. cordifolia has an effective re-growth capacity and it will only be vulnerable to attack of the storage organs that enable re-growth, or to repeated attack of other plant parts through which reserves are exhausted. Unfortunately the period of exposure (24 days) was too short to prove that Phenrica sp. 2 impacts on the below ground dry mass, but should the plant be completely defoliated, as was observed in the field, the host plant would be forced to deplete stored resources. Phenrica sp.2 has shown to be very host specific and although A.cordifoia loses its leaves during the winter period in most provinces in South Africa, the adults are long-lived and should be able to survive the leafless periods. Further more the relatively short life cycle, high fecundity and 3 generations per year should theoretically insure a strong population build-up that would improve the chances of establishment in the field. All indications are that Phenrica sp. 2 is an agent well worth considering for the biological control of A. cordifolia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van der Westhuizen, Liamé
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005375 , Weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Invasive plants -- Biological control -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae , Beetles , Flea beetles , Anredera cordifolia -- Biological control
- Description: Anredera cordifolia (Basellaceae), Madeira vine, is a perennial, semi- succulent climber native from Paraguay to southern Brazil and northern Argentina. It has a history of weediness and difficulty of control once established. In South Africa Madeira vine has a wide range and distribution with altitudes ranging from 10-1800m above sea level. Described as a transformer species, its sheer weight is capable of breaking branches off trees, causing the potential collapse of forest canopies. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and may provide only temporary relief. A biological control programme was therefore initiated in 2003. Cf Phenrica sp. 2 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), was field collected from A. cordifolia in Brazil, SSW of Cascavel in the Paraná Province during a survey in November 2003. Eggs are laid in groups of 16 with the average fertility rate being 89%. After going though three larval instars, the larvae pupate in the soil with the adults eclosing after a period of 17 days. The total developmental time for a generation from egg to egg ranges between 7-8 weeks. Biological traits that favour the flea beetle as a possible biological control agent include long-lived adults (up to 5 months) and multiple generations during the summer period. Both adults and larvae feed extensively on leaves and stems and although developmental rates will slow down during the winter period, no indication of a definite diapause was found under the prevailing laboratory conditions. After completing the larval no-choice trials with twenty-six plant species from 14 plant families Phenrica sp. 2 proved to be adequately host specific, as larval development was only supported by 3 Basellaceae species (including the control A. cordifolia) and one Portulacaceae species. All of these are introduced species in South Africa. The only indigenous Basella species could not be tested as it has a very marginal distribution, and because it’s inconspicuous nature, it is seldom seen or collected. Adult multi-choice trials were restricted to species that could sustain larval development to give some indication of the acceptability of these species for adult feeding and oviposition. Although adult feeding was initially concentrated on B. alba, the oviposition preference was clear-cut as females only oviposited on A. cordifolia. In order to quantify the impact of Phenrica sp. 2 on plant biomass and to assess the incidence and intensity of foliar damage, a pair of adults was confined to the host plant, for 2 generations, with different levels of larval densities. The results indicated that the host plant, due to both larval and adult feeding, suffered leaf losses of up to 55%. Anredera cordifolia was however still capable of enlarging the root mass despite suffering huge leaf losses. This would imply that A. cordifolia has an effective re-growth capacity and it will only be vulnerable to attack of the storage organs that enable re-growth, or to repeated attack of other plant parts through which reserves are exhausted. Unfortunately the period of exposure (24 days) was too short to prove that Phenrica sp. 2 impacts on the below ground dry mass, but should the plant be completely defoliated, as was observed in the field, the host plant would be forced to deplete stored resources. Phenrica sp.2 has shown to be very host specific and although A.cordifoia loses its leaves during the winter period in most provinces in South Africa, the adults are long-lived and should be able to survive the leafless periods. Further more the relatively short life cycle, high fecundity and 3 generations per year should theoretically insure a strong population build-up that would improve the chances of establishment in the field. All indications are that Phenrica sp. 2 is an agent well worth considering for the biological control of A. cordifolia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
A revision of a section of the hearing and speech scale of the Griffiths Scales of Mental Development
- Authors: Kotras, Nicole
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Griffiths scales of mental development , Psychological tests for children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11022 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/350 , Griffiths scales of mental development , Psychological tests for children
- Description: Since the introduction of the Griffiths Scales of Mental Development (Griffiths Scales) in the United Kingdom (1950) and South Africa (1977) they have become widely used and researched, both at a national and international level. Studies completed in South Africa have demonstrated the invaluable role the Griffiths Scales have fulfilled in the assessment of South African children of all cultural and socio-economic groups. However, research has indicated a need for the revision of the scales specifically relating to social and cultural factors that influence performance. The aim of this study was two-fold , namely: (i) to revise the 20 small pictures and the large picture of the Hearing and Speech Scale of the Griffiths Scales, making them more culturally relevant for the children of our contemporary world, and especially in South Africa; and (ii) to describe the performance of South African children, between 60 and 83 months of age, utilizing the revised pictures. For the qualitative component of the study a questionnaire pertaining to the small and large “Experimental pictures” was completed by the participants. The participants consisted of the executive committee members of the ARICD in the United Kingdom. Additionally 17 “expert “ Griffith's users and “lay-experts” working in early childhood development throughout South Africa, were included. Their responses were content analyzed and incorporated into the Experimental pictures. This resulted in the development of the Revised Griffiths pictures. The quantitative component of the study utilized two sample pools. Sample 1 (n=204) and Sample 2 (n=180) were comprised of pre-school children aged between 60 and 83 months. Sample 1 was utilized for the 20 small revised pictures and the large revised SA picture, while sample 2 was utilized for the 20 small revised pictures and the large revised United Kingdom/ European/Australian picture. Furthermore, both samples, consisted of children from all cultural, socio-economic, language, and gender groups. x The major findings of the present study were as follows: 1. Referring to sample 1, only the White and Indian pre-schoolers correctly identified a mean number of small pictures above that which was proposed by Griffiths (1960). The Coloured pre-schoolers almost identified Griffiths (1960) proposed number. 2. Referring to sample 2, all excepting the Black pre-schoolers correctly identified Griffiths’ (1960) proposed mean of small pictures. 3. All children from sample 1 and sample 2 were able to identify more stimuli from the large revised pictures, than was proposed by Griffiths (1960). 4. All four cultural groups from samples 1 and 2, elicited a mean number of descriptive words below Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 5. White pre-schoolers from sample 1 elicited a mean number of descriptive sentences above Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 6. White and Coloured pre-schoolers from sample 2 elicited a mean number of descriptive sentences above Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 7. All four cultural groups from sample 1 and sample 2, elicited a mean number of personal or possessive pronouns below Griffith's (1960) proposed criteria. 8. A general trend noted for the four cultural groups of both samples, was that the percentage of children who passed successive age-appropriate items, did not decrease stepwise as would be expected from the placement of items in order of difficulty. In view of the latter finding, it is recommended that for South African children the placement of the items for the small and large pictures of the Hearing and Speech Scale should be revised in terms of their order of difficulty. It is furthermore recommended that separate norms for South African children be established for the Hearing and Speech Scale
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kotras, Nicole
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Griffiths scales of mental development , Psychological tests for children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11022 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/350 , Griffiths scales of mental development , Psychological tests for children
- Description: Since the introduction of the Griffiths Scales of Mental Development (Griffiths Scales) in the United Kingdom (1950) and South Africa (1977) they have become widely used and researched, both at a national and international level. Studies completed in South Africa have demonstrated the invaluable role the Griffiths Scales have fulfilled in the assessment of South African children of all cultural and socio-economic groups. However, research has indicated a need for the revision of the scales specifically relating to social and cultural factors that influence performance. The aim of this study was two-fold , namely: (i) to revise the 20 small pictures and the large picture of the Hearing and Speech Scale of the Griffiths Scales, making them more culturally relevant for the children of our contemporary world, and especially in South Africa; and (ii) to describe the performance of South African children, between 60 and 83 months of age, utilizing the revised pictures. For the qualitative component of the study a questionnaire pertaining to the small and large “Experimental pictures” was completed by the participants. The participants consisted of the executive committee members of the ARICD in the United Kingdom. Additionally 17 “expert “ Griffith's users and “lay-experts” working in early childhood development throughout South Africa, were included. Their responses were content analyzed and incorporated into the Experimental pictures. This resulted in the development of the Revised Griffiths pictures. The quantitative component of the study utilized two sample pools. Sample 1 (n=204) and Sample 2 (n=180) were comprised of pre-school children aged between 60 and 83 months. Sample 1 was utilized for the 20 small revised pictures and the large revised SA picture, while sample 2 was utilized for the 20 small revised pictures and the large revised United Kingdom/ European/Australian picture. Furthermore, both samples, consisted of children from all cultural, socio-economic, language, and gender groups. x The major findings of the present study were as follows: 1. Referring to sample 1, only the White and Indian pre-schoolers correctly identified a mean number of small pictures above that which was proposed by Griffiths (1960). The Coloured pre-schoolers almost identified Griffiths (1960) proposed number. 2. Referring to sample 2, all excepting the Black pre-schoolers correctly identified Griffiths’ (1960) proposed mean of small pictures. 3. All children from sample 1 and sample 2 were able to identify more stimuli from the large revised pictures, than was proposed by Griffiths (1960). 4. All four cultural groups from samples 1 and 2, elicited a mean number of descriptive words below Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 5. White pre-schoolers from sample 1 elicited a mean number of descriptive sentences above Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 6. White and Coloured pre-schoolers from sample 2 elicited a mean number of descriptive sentences above Griffiths’ (1960) proposed criteria. 7. All four cultural groups from sample 1 and sample 2, elicited a mean number of personal or possessive pronouns below Griffith's (1960) proposed criteria. 8. A general trend noted for the four cultural groups of both samples, was that the percentage of children who passed successive age-appropriate items, did not decrease stepwise as would be expected from the placement of items in order of difficulty. In view of the latter finding, it is recommended that for South African children the placement of the items for the small and large pictures of the Hearing and Speech Scale should be revised in terms of their order of difficulty. It is furthermore recommended that separate norms for South African children be established for the Hearing and Speech Scale
- Full Text:
Factors affecting teachers' attitude towards the implementation of inclusive education
- Authors: Zukani, Ncediswa Millicent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Inclusive education Mainstreaming in education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MEd) Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10094 , vital:35336
- Description: This study is a quantitative study done in selected schools on teachers’ attitudes towards the implementation of inclusive education. Despite efforts to ensure quality education for all learners through inclusive education in South Africa, indications are that many learners, especially those who experience barriers to learning, are still excluded from full access to quality and equitable education opportunities in mainstream schools. Research has shown that the success of inclusive education depends upon teachers’ attitudes. It also shows that attitudes can hinder the progress of the implementation of inclusive education. The paper draws on White Paper 6 which speaks to inclusion of children with disabilities in schools. As the legislative and policy framework for the implementation of inclusive education, White Paper 6 states that “a public school must admit learners and serve their educational requirements without unfairly discriminating in any way”. The study is framed by Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour, which suggests that an attitude towards behaviour is influenced by past experiences, previous knowledge and newly acquired knowledge. The study reflects findings from a questionnaire circulated to 75 teachers at three selected high schools, using descriptive statistics to analyse the data. Findings showed that there is no relationship between attitudes based on factors, including class size, years of experience, inadequate resource, and lack of adequate training but the main negative influence was found to be lack of support in implementing inclusive education. The conclusion is that there is no relationship between attitudes and the factors identified except lack of support. This research concludes with recommendations to address teachers’ attitudes in order to facilitate the inclusion of learners with special needs in the classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zukani, Ncediswa Millicent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Inclusive education Mainstreaming in education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MEd) Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10094 , vital:35336
- Description: This study is a quantitative study done in selected schools on teachers’ attitudes towards the implementation of inclusive education. Despite efforts to ensure quality education for all learners through inclusive education in South Africa, indications are that many learners, especially those who experience barriers to learning, are still excluded from full access to quality and equitable education opportunities in mainstream schools. Research has shown that the success of inclusive education depends upon teachers’ attitudes. It also shows that attitudes can hinder the progress of the implementation of inclusive education. The paper draws on White Paper 6 which speaks to inclusion of children with disabilities in schools. As the legislative and policy framework for the implementation of inclusive education, White Paper 6 states that “a public school must admit learners and serve their educational requirements without unfairly discriminating in any way”. The study is framed by Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour, which suggests that an attitude towards behaviour is influenced by past experiences, previous knowledge and newly acquired knowledge. The study reflects findings from a questionnaire circulated to 75 teachers at three selected high schools, using descriptive statistics to analyse the data. Findings showed that there is no relationship between attitudes based on factors, including class size, years of experience, inadequate resource, and lack of adequate training but the main negative influence was found to be lack of support in implementing inclusive education. The conclusion is that there is no relationship between attitudes and the factors identified except lack of support. This research concludes with recommendations to address teachers’ attitudes in order to facilitate the inclusion of learners with special needs in the classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Local food choices and nutrition : a case study of amarewu in the FET consumer studies curriculum
- Authors: Kota, Lutho Siyabulela
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Continuing education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Curricula Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Curricula Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Indigenous peoples -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nutrition -- Study and teaching -- South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003549
- Description: This case study examines the introduction of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) in the Consumer Studies curriculum of Further Education and Training (FET). The research is centred on the use of enquiry methodologies involving learners observing parent demonstrations of the making of ‘amarewu’ and other activities centred on the propositional knowledge dealing with fermentation in the Consumer Studies curriculum. The research involved a review of curriculum documents, participant observation of a demonstration of local food practices related to ‘amarewu’ and learner research activities and interviews to review the developing learning interactions. The learning activities were focused on the learners’ researching the cultural and nutritional value of ‘amarewu’ and included an audit of food consumed in the community. What transpired from this study was that working with IK in the curriculum is possible. The inclusion of IK is not only possible but desirable and has exciting possibilities for relevance in contemporary education. The active involvement in parent demonstration engaged the learners in IK in their mother tongue, therefore indigenous knowledge has relevance. The curriculum concepts also enhanced the engagement by giving rise to more relevant knowledge and a respect for cultural matters. Intergenerational capital and subject concepts also enabled learners to engage with local nutritional problems and to come up with practical solutions. This study demonstrates how IK intergenerational capital in combination in combination with curriculum concepts (subject knowledge capital) can enhance relevance and the learners’ real engagement with local health and nutritional problems. Not only did the learners have culturally valued knowledge, but also knowledge that has a practical grasp of the problem and that they could use to engage relevant issues. These two views of knowledge join in learning and can be used to address health issues. I therefore recommend connection of cultural knowledge and conceptual knowledge to strengthen the revitalisation of cultural heritage, thus equalising it to the modern patterns of life and enhancing meaningful curriculum orientation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Kota, Lutho Siyabulela
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Continuing education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Curricula Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Curricula Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Indigenous peoples -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nutrition -- Study and teaching -- South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003549
- Description: This case study examines the introduction of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) in the Consumer Studies curriculum of Further Education and Training (FET). The research is centred on the use of enquiry methodologies involving learners observing parent demonstrations of the making of ‘amarewu’ and other activities centred on the propositional knowledge dealing with fermentation in the Consumer Studies curriculum. The research involved a review of curriculum documents, participant observation of a demonstration of local food practices related to ‘amarewu’ and learner research activities and interviews to review the developing learning interactions. The learning activities were focused on the learners’ researching the cultural and nutritional value of ‘amarewu’ and included an audit of food consumed in the community. What transpired from this study was that working with IK in the curriculum is possible. The inclusion of IK is not only possible but desirable and has exciting possibilities for relevance in contemporary education. The active involvement in parent demonstration engaged the learners in IK in their mother tongue, therefore indigenous knowledge has relevance. The curriculum concepts also enhanced the engagement by giving rise to more relevant knowledge and a respect for cultural matters. Intergenerational capital and subject concepts also enabled learners to engage with local nutritional problems and to come up with practical solutions. This study demonstrates how IK intergenerational capital in combination in combination with curriculum concepts (subject knowledge capital) can enhance relevance and the learners’ real engagement with local health and nutritional problems. Not only did the learners have culturally valued knowledge, but also knowledge that has a practical grasp of the problem and that they could use to engage relevant issues. These two views of knowledge join in learning and can be used to address health issues. I therefore recommend connection of cultural knowledge and conceptual knowledge to strengthen the revitalisation of cultural heritage, thus equalising it to the modern patterns of life and enhancing meaningful curriculum orientation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Interaction of metallic nanoparticles with biomedical enzyme target: neuronal nitric oxide synthase
- Authors: Ngqwala, Nosiphiwe Patience
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nitric-oxide synthase Alzheimer's disease Arginine Nanoparticles Biochemical markers Biochemical markers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001536
- Description: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia characterized by intracellular appearance of neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic and neuronal loss; and extracellular accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide in senile plaques. The initial causes leading to AD are unknown, and the available treatments are only effective at slowing the degeneration process. The accumulation of arginine in the brain of Alzheimer patients indicates a possible disruption of enzymes responsible for its metabolism. One such enzyme is neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and controlling its activity by interacting with nanoparticles may lead to a delay in the onset of the disease. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase was purified using DEAE-Sephacel ion exchange resulting in 10 % yield, 0.43 fold recovery and specific activity 0.09 U/mg. The enzyme was found to be a dimer with a molecular mass of 150 kDa. Characterisation of the nNOS showed an optimum temperature and pH of 50°C and 7.5 respectively, and it was relatively stable at the optimum conditions (t½ = 100 min). The purity was analysed by SDS-PAGE followed by Western blot. Purified nNOS was challenged with 3-7 nm silver and 4-15 nm gold nanoparticles of between synthesized chemical using AgNO3 and either sodium borohydride or sodium citrate. Results showed that gold nanoparticles are more effective at low concentration (5 μM) than silver nanoparticles due to their size difference. Incubation of different concentration of nanoparticles (5, 15, 25, 50 μM) with the purified nNOS showed an initial decrease of 5% in enzyme activity which over time was restored to 80%. This suggests that different nanoparticles are produced in different sizes and interaction over a given time may result in enzyme association–dissociation mechanism. Inhibition studies showed a strong binding of both nanoparticles with Ki values of 1.4 μM and 0.2 μM for silver and gold, respectively. Both nanoparticles inhibited the activity of nNOS extensively as they bound strongly to the inhibition site on the enzyme and were more in contact with fluorophores nanoparticles. This was confirmed by fluorimetry with binding constants of 0.0084 μM and 0.01092 μM for silver and gold, respectively. Results of this study suggest that silver and gold nanoparticles competitively inhibit nNOS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngqwala, Nosiphiwe Patience
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nitric-oxide synthase Alzheimer's disease Arginine Nanoparticles Biochemical markers Biochemical markers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001536
- Description: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia characterized by intracellular appearance of neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic and neuronal loss; and extracellular accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide in senile plaques. The initial causes leading to AD are unknown, and the available treatments are only effective at slowing the degeneration process. The accumulation of arginine in the brain of Alzheimer patients indicates a possible disruption of enzymes responsible for its metabolism. One such enzyme is neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and controlling its activity by interacting with nanoparticles may lead to a delay in the onset of the disease. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase was purified using DEAE-Sephacel ion exchange resulting in 10 % yield, 0.43 fold recovery and specific activity 0.09 U/mg. The enzyme was found to be a dimer with a molecular mass of 150 kDa. Characterisation of the nNOS showed an optimum temperature and pH of 50°C and 7.5 respectively, and it was relatively stable at the optimum conditions (t½ = 100 min). The purity was analysed by SDS-PAGE followed by Western blot. Purified nNOS was challenged with 3-7 nm silver and 4-15 nm gold nanoparticles of between synthesized chemical using AgNO3 and either sodium borohydride or sodium citrate. Results showed that gold nanoparticles are more effective at low concentration (5 μM) than silver nanoparticles due to their size difference. Incubation of different concentration of nanoparticles (5, 15, 25, 50 μM) with the purified nNOS showed an initial decrease of 5% in enzyme activity which over time was restored to 80%. This suggests that different nanoparticles are produced in different sizes and interaction over a given time may result in enzyme association–dissociation mechanism. Inhibition studies showed a strong binding of both nanoparticles with Ki values of 1.4 μM and 0.2 μM for silver and gold, respectively. Both nanoparticles inhibited the activity of nNOS extensively as they bound strongly to the inhibition site on the enzyme and were more in contact with fluorophores nanoparticles. This was confirmed by fluorimetry with binding constants of 0.0084 μM and 0.01092 μM for silver and gold, respectively. Results of this study suggest that silver and gold nanoparticles competitively inhibit nNOS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Trade liberalisation and poverty alleviation in South Africa
- Authors: Gundu, Tafadzwa Amanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11480 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015283
- Description: The study attempts to address, from amongst the key issues in the current debate on economic development: the effect of trade liberalization on poverty. The relationship between trade liberalization and poverty levels is investigated in both the long run and the short run for South Africa. To measure trade liberalization, trade openness is used as the standard index. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) measures financial openness while taxation is a measure of public intervention in the country. Consumption per capita is a proxy for poverty and Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) controlled for economic growth. Applying the Johansen Co-integration Techniques and Error Correction Method, empirical results suggest that trade liberalization has a cumulative effect on poverty reduction in the long-run. Lower poverty level is associated with low taxation and high foreign direct investment, particularly in the short run, in South Africa. Therefore, it is recommended that the government needs to design and pursue active development strategies to benefit from openness. There is also a need to enhance the tax revenues of the state through better collection of revenues, and administrative reforms rather than expenditure cut backs, which can reduce the effectiveness of the public sector. The government needs to strengthen allocation of funds to social sectors so as to bring the issue of poverty reduction to the central stage of economic policy making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gundu, Tafadzwa Amanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11480 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015283
- Description: The study attempts to address, from amongst the key issues in the current debate on economic development: the effect of trade liberalization on poverty. The relationship between trade liberalization and poverty levels is investigated in both the long run and the short run for South Africa. To measure trade liberalization, trade openness is used as the standard index. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) measures financial openness while taxation is a measure of public intervention in the country. Consumption per capita is a proxy for poverty and Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) controlled for economic growth. Applying the Johansen Co-integration Techniques and Error Correction Method, empirical results suggest that trade liberalization has a cumulative effect on poverty reduction in the long-run. Lower poverty level is associated with low taxation and high foreign direct investment, particularly in the short run, in South Africa. Therefore, it is recommended that the government needs to design and pursue active development strategies to benefit from openness. There is also a need to enhance the tax revenues of the state through better collection of revenues, and administrative reforms rather than expenditure cut backs, which can reduce the effectiveness of the public sector. The government needs to strengthen allocation of funds to social sectors so as to bring the issue of poverty reduction to the central stage of economic policy making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An examination of the Mobisam project and Grocott's Mail : towards mobile social accountability monitoring in Grahamstown
- Authors: Reinecke, Romi Kami
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Grocott's Mail (Grahamstown, South Africa) , Electronic discussion groups -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Citizen journalism -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Government accountability -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Social action -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal services -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017782
- Description: This thesis critically examines the nature and purpose of the MobiSAM partnership, in relation to its value as a model resonating with normative theories on the role of the media in South African democratic society. The MobiSAM project introduces a mobile polling application, designed for citizens to provide real-time, user-generated data on crucial municipal service delivery such as clean water in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The project has partnered with the local community newspaper, Grocott's Mail, to broadcast this data, with the aim to facilitate citizen participation in public problem solving and support local government accountability in service delivery. Despite pervasive poverty in areas such as the Eastern Cape, mobile penetration in South Africa is near universal. The MobiSAM partnership is an ongoing effort to forge new links between social accountability monitors, new media, traditional media, citizens and local government around public issues in Grahamstown, in line with the development objectives of the post-apartheid South African state. The overall theoretical framework for this thesis is taken from Christians, Glasser, McQuail, Nordenstreng and White's Normative Theories of the Media, which provides an analysis of four roles of the media in a democratic society, that is: the monitorial, the facilitative, the radical and the collaborative roles. Within each of these roles, the stated journalistic approach is explored, that is investigative journalism, public journalism, radical journalism and development journalism. Public journalism is focused on as having the most resonance with the goals of the MobiSAM partnership. The chosen research design is a critical realist case study with the selected methods of thematic document analysis and, primarily, in-depth interviews with key project participants. The research goals were to analyse this primary data against the normative theory on the role of the media in a democratic society, and the 'real world' constraints posed by the project’s specific political and socioeconomic context. The findings conclude by offering certain recommendations and areas for further research, such as the central importance of a dedicated municipal reporter for covering complex public issues. This critical realist case study, drawing on qualitative interviews with both the accountability monitors and the media practitioners, interrogates the philosophical understandings on the role of the media in this new project, towards an empirical model for advancing substantive socio-economic change through media in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Reinecke, Romi Kami
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Grocott's Mail (Grahamstown, South Africa) , Electronic discussion groups -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Citizen journalism -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Government accountability -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Social action -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal services -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017782
- Description: This thesis critically examines the nature and purpose of the MobiSAM partnership, in relation to its value as a model resonating with normative theories on the role of the media in South African democratic society. The MobiSAM project introduces a mobile polling application, designed for citizens to provide real-time, user-generated data on crucial municipal service delivery such as clean water in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The project has partnered with the local community newspaper, Grocott's Mail, to broadcast this data, with the aim to facilitate citizen participation in public problem solving and support local government accountability in service delivery. Despite pervasive poverty in areas such as the Eastern Cape, mobile penetration in South Africa is near universal. The MobiSAM partnership is an ongoing effort to forge new links between social accountability monitors, new media, traditional media, citizens and local government around public issues in Grahamstown, in line with the development objectives of the post-apartheid South African state. The overall theoretical framework for this thesis is taken from Christians, Glasser, McQuail, Nordenstreng and White's Normative Theories of the Media, which provides an analysis of four roles of the media in a democratic society, that is: the monitorial, the facilitative, the radical and the collaborative roles. Within each of these roles, the stated journalistic approach is explored, that is investigative journalism, public journalism, radical journalism and development journalism. Public journalism is focused on as having the most resonance with the goals of the MobiSAM partnership. The chosen research design is a critical realist case study with the selected methods of thematic document analysis and, primarily, in-depth interviews with key project participants. The research goals were to analyse this primary data against the normative theory on the role of the media in a democratic society, and the 'real world' constraints posed by the project’s specific political and socioeconomic context. The findings conclude by offering certain recommendations and areas for further research, such as the central importance of a dedicated municipal reporter for covering complex public issues. This critical realist case study, drawing on qualitative interviews with both the accountability monitors and the media practitioners, interrogates the philosophical understandings on the role of the media in this new project, towards an empirical model for advancing substantive socio-economic change through media in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
A price analysis of vegetables on the East London municipal market
- Authors: Fraser, Gavin Cecil Gilbert
- Date: 1983
- Subjects: Agricultural prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006970 , Agricultural prices -- South Africa
- Description: [Introduction] Much of the information available on the prices of vegetables marketed through the fresh produce markets is of limited use to producers. This information contains the actual prices for individual years. This can obviously be taken as a guide to future prices but it does not necessarily mean that those prices are a true reflection of the general pattern. In this study an attempt will be made, firstly, to establish whether a general pattern exists in the prices of selected vegetables on the East London municipal market. This will be attempted by studying the prices obtained over the 1964-1979 period. Information of this nature can be used as a basis for the planning of future crops. Secondly, to determine the months which obtain the "best" prices for the selected vegetables taking into account the quantities supplied to the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1983
- Authors: Fraser, Gavin Cecil Gilbert
- Date: 1983
- Subjects: Agricultural prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006970 , Agricultural prices -- South Africa
- Description: [Introduction] Much of the information available on the prices of vegetables marketed through the fresh produce markets is of limited use to producers. This information contains the actual prices for individual years. This can obviously be taken as a guide to future prices but it does not necessarily mean that those prices are a true reflection of the general pattern. In this study an attempt will be made, firstly, to establish whether a general pattern exists in the prices of selected vegetables on the East London municipal market. This will be attempted by studying the prices obtained over the 1964-1979 period. Information of this nature can be used as a basis for the planning of future crops. Secondly, to determine the months which obtain the "best" prices for the selected vegetables taking into account the quantities supplied to the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1983
The sedimentology of the Zerrissene turbidite system, Damara Orogen, Namibia
- Authors: Swart, Roger
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Sedimentology Sediments (Geology) -- Namibia Sedimentation and deposition Turbidites
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5000 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005613
- Description: The Zerrissene turbidite system of central-western Namibia is a late Proterozoic sequence which consists of dominantly siliciclastic turbidites interbedded with minor turbiditic and hemipelagic marbles. The basin in which these sediments were deposited is located at the junction of the coastal and intra-cratonic arms of the Pan-African Damara Orogen, and an understanding of the sedimentary evolution of this basin is therefore important to the understanding of the development of the orogen as a whole. One major and two minor phases of folding have deformed the sediments, but the grade of metamorphism is low and sedimentary structures are often well preserved. Further, the area lies entirely within the Namib Desert and the lack of vegetation cover results in good outcrops providing an unusual opportunity for examining a large Precambrian turbidite system. The system consists of five formations: three siliciclastic and two mixed carbonatesiliciclastic units. The floor of the system is not exposed, and the oldest sedimentary rocks which outcrop are siliciclastics of the Zebrapiits Formation. This is overlain successively by the Brandberg West Formation (dominantly calcareous), the Brak River Formation (siliciclastic), the Gemsbok River Formation (calcareous) and the Amis River Formation (siliciclastic). Nine silicilastic turbidite facies have been recognised in the basin. These are facies A₂ (disorganised onglomerates), B₁ (horizontally laminated to massive greyackes), C₂ ("classical" turbidites), Dl (sandstone-shale couplets with base cut-out Bouma sequences), D₂ (sandstone-shale couplets with less sand than shale and base cut-out Bouma sequences), E (coarse, discontinuous sandstone-shale couplets), F (slumped units), G (shale) and H (glacial dropstones). Four facies are associated with the carbonate horizons, and these carbonate facies are given the suffix c to distinguish them from similar siliciclastic facies. These are facies Ac (disorganised and graded marble breccias), facies Cc (graded carbonates), facies Gc (hemi-pelagic marbles) and facies G (pelagic shales). The basal Zebrapiits Formation is made up of relatively thin packages of thin- to thickbedded, laterally continuous facies D₁, D₂ and B₁ beds encased in thick envelopes of shale. This type of sequence is typical of a distal lobe-fringe, and requires an unconfined basin-floor on which it can develop. The overlying Brandberg West Formation consists of a basal portion of interbedded facies Cc and G, followed by a sequence dominanted by facies Gc. This sequence is interpreted as representing outer-apron carbonate turbidites, derived from multiple point sources (facies Cc), with background pelagic settling (facies G) overlain by hemi-pelagic deposits (facies Gc). A reversal back to siliciclastic turbidites followed with deposition of the Brak River Formation. This sequence comprises relatively thick packages of laterally continuous facies B₁, D₁, and D₂ beds sandwiched between facies G shales, a succession characteristic of a lobe to lobe-fringe environment with intermittent abandonment of lobes. An unconfined basin floor adjacent to a passive margin is required for the development of this type of sequence. Glacial dropstones (facies H) are found in the upper portions of this formation, and slumped beds are also present (facies F), but are uncommon. The facies F beds are only found in association with facies H and are therefore considered to be genetically related. Slumping of beds was possibly caused by an oversupply of sediment from ice-rafting which caused instability. The overlying Gemsbok River Formation has a sequence similar to the Brandberg West Formation in that the basal portion consists of interbedded facies Cc and G, which is overlain by a thick sequence of largely facies Gc beds. Minor facies Ac beds occur near the top of the overall sequence. This formation is interpreted as an outer-apron succession with the facies Ac beds representing distal inner-apron deposits, indicating progradation of the system. The youngest unit in the basin, the Amis River Formation, shows strong lateral variation from west to east. In the west the sequence comprises laterally continuous facies B₁, C₂, D₁ and D₂ with rare, discontinuous facies E beds. Facies G is relatively minor in the sequence. In the east the succession is dominated by facies D₁, D₂ and G, and this succession is interpreted as a sequence of distal turbidites which were deposited on a basin-plain. The system developed by aggradation rather than progradation as only minor cycles are developed. Geochemical and petrological features indicate that the entire siliciclastic system was derived from a granite-recycled orogen terrane. Palaeocurrent data are unreliable because of the deformation, but transport was initially from the south-west, moving later to the west and north-west. The provenance of the carbonates is uncertain as reliable palaeocurrent indicators are rare, but they could have been derived either from South America or from the extensive carbonate deposits developed on the north-western margins of the basin. The Zenissene siliciclastic turbidite system represents the distal portion of a major submarine turbidite system, the more proximal parts of which now lie west of the exposed basin, either under the Atlantic Ocean or in eastern South America. The calcareous deposits developed as an apron adjacent to a multiple point source, the position of which is at present unknown.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
- Authors: Swart, Roger
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Sedimentology Sediments (Geology) -- Namibia Sedimentation and deposition Turbidites
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5000 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005613
- Description: The Zerrissene turbidite system of central-western Namibia is a late Proterozoic sequence which consists of dominantly siliciclastic turbidites interbedded with minor turbiditic and hemipelagic marbles. The basin in which these sediments were deposited is located at the junction of the coastal and intra-cratonic arms of the Pan-African Damara Orogen, and an understanding of the sedimentary evolution of this basin is therefore important to the understanding of the development of the orogen as a whole. One major and two minor phases of folding have deformed the sediments, but the grade of metamorphism is low and sedimentary structures are often well preserved. Further, the area lies entirely within the Namib Desert and the lack of vegetation cover results in good outcrops providing an unusual opportunity for examining a large Precambrian turbidite system. The system consists of five formations: three siliciclastic and two mixed carbonatesiliciclastic units. The floor of the system is not exposed, and the oldest sedimentary rocks which outcrop are siliciclastics of the Zebrapiits Formation. This is overlain successively by the Brandberg West Formation (dominantly calcareous), the Brak River Formation (siliciclastic), the Gemsbok River Formation (calcareous) and the Amis River Formation (siliciclastic). Nine silicilastic turbidite facies have been recognised in the basin. These are facies A₂ (disorganised onglomerates), B₁ (horizontally laminated to massive greyackes), C₂ ("classical" turbidites), Dl (sandstone-shale couplets with base cut-out Bouma sequences), D₂ (sandstone-shale couplets with less sand than shale and base cut-out Bouma sequences), E (coarse, discontinuous sandstone-shale couplets), F (slumped units), G (shale) and H (glacial dropstones). Four facies are associated with the carbonate horizons, and these carbonate facies are given the suffix c to distinguish them from similar siliciclastic facies. These are facies Ac (disorganised and graded marble breccias), facies Cc (graded carbonates), facies Gc (hemi-pelagic marbles) and facies G (pelagic shales). The basal Zebrapiits Formation is made up of relatively thin packages of thin- to thickbedded, laterally continuous facies D₁, D₂ and B₁ beds encased in thick envelopes of shale. This type of sequence is typical of a distal lobe-fringe, and requires an unconfined basin-floor on which it can develop. The overlying Brandberg West Formation consists of a basal portion of interbedded facies Cc and G, followed by a sequence dominanted by facies Gc. This sequence is interpreted as representing outer-apron carbonate turbidites, derived from multiple point sources (facies Cc), with background pelagic settling (facies G) overlain by hemi-pelagic deposits (facies Gc). A reversal back to siliciclastic turbidites followed with deposition of the Brak River Formation. This sequence comprises relatively thick packages of laterally continuous facies B₁, D₁, and D₂ beds sandwiched between facies G shales, a succession characteristic of a lobe to lobe-fringe environment with intermittent abandonment of lobes. An unconfined basin floor adjacent to a passive margin is required for the development of this type of sequence. Glacial dropstones (facies H) are found in the upper portions of this formation, and slumped beds are also present (facies F), but are uncommon. The facies F beds are only found in association with facies H and are therefore considered to be genetically related. Slumping of beds was possibly caused by an oversupply of sediment from ice-rafting which caused instability. The overlying Gemsbok River Formation has a sequence similar to the Brandberg West Formation in that the basal portion consists of interbedded facies Cc and G, which is overlain by a thick sequence of largely facies Gc beds. Minor facies Ac beds occur near the top of the overall sequence. This formation is interpreted as an outer-apron succession with the facies Ac beds representing distal inner-apron deposits, indicating progradation of the system. The youngest unit in the basin, the Amis River Formation, shows strong lateral variation from west to east. In the west the sequence comprises laterally continuous facies B₁, C₂, D₁ and D₂ with rare, discontinuous facies E beds. Facies G is relatively minor in the sequence. In the east the succession is dominated by facies D₁, D₂ and G, and this succession is interpreted as a sequence of distal turbidites which were deposited on a basin-plain. The system developed by aggradation rather than progradation as only minor cycles are developed. Geochemical and petrological features indicate that the entire siliciclastic system was derived from a granite-recycled orogen terrane. Palaeocurrent data are unreliable because of the deformation, but transport was initially from the south-west, moving later to the west and north-west. The provenance of the carbonates is uncertain as reliable palaeocurrent indicators are rare, but they could have been derived either from South America or from the extensive carbonate deposits developed on the north-western margins of the basin. The Zenissene siliciclastic turbidite system represents the distal portion of a major submarine turbidite system, the more proximal parts of which now lie west of the exposed basin, either under the Atlantic Ocean or in eastern South America. The calcareous deposits developed as an apron adjacent to a multiple point source, the position of which is at present unknown.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
Consumer perceptions and microbial quality of meat sold in the informal markets of Nkonkobe and Buffalo City municipalities in the Eastern province, South Africa
- Authors: Mazizi, Bulelani Elvis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality -- South Africa --Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15365 , vital:40401
- Description: The main objective of the study was to determine consumer perceptions and microbial quality of meat sold in the informal markets found in Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To determine consumer perceptions of the quality of the meat and meat products sold in the informal markets in Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities, a survey was conducted. A total of 160 consumers from two municipalities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province of South Africa was randomly sampled and interviewed. A questionnaire was used to gather information about consumer perceptions of meat and meat products sold in the informal markets regarding their knowledge about safety, food-borne diseases, hygiene, and the quality of the meat among others. The study showed that Alice Town has a larger (66.25percent) proportion of consumers with knowledge about foodborne diseases while King Williams’s Town had a larger proportion (48.75percent) of respondents who had no knowledge about Food-borne diseases. However, a large proportion of consumers in King Williams’s Town considered vendor (82.5percent) and environmental hygiene (93.75percent) than in Alice Town. Consumers (83.75percent) in King Williams’s Town viewed the meat from street vendors to be of low quality while a small proportion (18.75percent) of consumers in Alice Town viewed it as the meat of good quality. Alice had a large proportion (61.25percent) of consumers, which had knowledge of the meat safety law than King Williams’s Town. More consumers from King Williams’s Town (31.25percent) agreed that government plays a role while Alice had a small proportion (26.25percent) which disagreed. The results also showed that consumer perceptions about the safety of meat and meat products are focused more on hygiene, neglecting other important aspects such as vending infrastructure. However, most consumers do not have enough knowledge concerning meat safety. The second study determined the microbial quality of meat sold by street vendors based in Alice and Kind Williams Town in the Eastern Cape Province South Africa. A total of 48 fresh and uncooked meat samples (beef, pork, and mutton), 48 surface contact plates and 40 water samples was collected from 4 street vendors from each town for microbial analysis (n=48). After collection, all samples were subjected to Aerobic plate count (APC), Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). The results revealed that Salmonella spp tested negative across all the meat samples used in the study. However, no significant differences were found in the microbial quality of meat sold by street vendors in Alice and King Williams town. Furthermore, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) between the APC of raw beef (4.8 Log CFU/g), mutton (3.7 Log CFU/g) and pork (2.8 Log CFU/g) and also the cooked beef (1.5 Log CFU/g), mutton (1.3 Log CFU/g) and pork (1.9 Log CFU/g) samples. A similar trend was observed in the values of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) counts in raw and cooked meat samples. However, a positive correlation between Aerobic plate counts (APC) and Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) (P<0.001) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) (P<0.01) was found in the study. It can, therefore, be concluded that there were no differences in the microbial counts of raw and cooked meat sold in the informal markets of Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mazizi, Bulelani Elvis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality -- South Africa --Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15365 , vital:40401
- Description: The main objective of the study was to determine consumer perceptions and microbial quality of meat sold in the informal markets found in Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To determine consumer perceptions of the quality of the meat and meat products sold in the informal markets in Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities, a survey was conducted. A total of 160 consumers from two municipalities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province of South Africa was randomly sampled and interviewed. A questionnaire was used to gather information about consumer perceptions of meat and meat products sold in the informal markets regarding their knowledge about safety, food-borne diseases, hygiene, and the quality of the meat among others. The study showed that Alice Town has a larger (66.25percent) proportion of consumers with knowledge about foodborne diseases while King Williams’s Town had a larger proportion (48.75percent) of respondents who had no knowledge about Food-borne diseases. However, a large proportion of consumers in King Williams’s Town considered vendor (82.5percent) and environmental hygiene (93.75percent) than in Alice Town. Consumers (83.75percent) in King Williams’s Town viewed the meat from street vendors to be of low quality while a small proportion (18.75percent) of consumers in Alice Town viewed it as the meat of good quality. Alice had a large proportion (61.25percent) of consumers, which had knowledge of the meat safety law than King Williams’s Town. More consumers from King Williams’s Town (31.25percent) agreed that government plays a role while Alice had a small proportion (26.25percent) which disagreed. The results also showed that consumer perceptions about the safety of meat and meat products are focused more on hygiene, neglecting other important aspects such as vending infrastructure. However, most consumers do not have enough knowledge concerning meat safety. The second study determined the microbial quality of meat sold by street vendors based in Alice and Kind Williams Town in the Eastern Cape Province South Africa. A total of 48 fresh and uncooked meat samples (beef, pork, and mutton), 48 surface contact plates and 40 water samples was collected from 4 street vendors from each town for microbial analysis (n=48). After collection, all samples were subjected to Aerobic plate count (APC), Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). The results revealed that Salmonella spp tested negative across all the meat samples used in the study. However, no significant differences were found in the microbial quality of meat sold by street vendors in Alice and King Williams town. Furthermore, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) between the APC of raw beef (4.8 Log CFU/g), mutton (3.7 Log CFU/g) and pork (2.8 Log CFU/g) and also the cooked beef (1.5 Log CFU/g), mutton (1.3 Log CFU/g) and pork (1.9 Log CFU/g) samples. A similar trend was observed in the values of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) counts in raw and cooked meat samples. However, a positive correlation between Aerobic plate counts (APC) and Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) (P<0.001) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) (P<0.01) was found in the study. It can, therefore, be concluded that there were no differences in the microbial counts of raw and cooked meat sold in the informal markets of Nkonkobe and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Attitudes of isiXhosa-speaking students at the University of Fort Hare towards the use of isiXhosa as a language of learning and teaching (LOLT)
- Authors: Dalvit, Lorenzo
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Native language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual , Language and education -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , University of Fort Hare -- Students -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002625 , Native language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual , Language and education -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , University of Fort Hare -- Students -- Attitudes
- Description: The present work presents and discusses the results of a survey of a sample of isiXhosa-speaking students at the University of Fort Hare (Alice campus) and their attitudes towards the possible introduction of isiXhosa as a medium of instruction at this institution. More specifically, the research focuses on, among other things, the students’ attitudes towards English and isiXhosa and their opinions and beliefs about the introduction of dual-mediumship and its possible consequences. The survey methods used are a questionnaire survey as well as follow-up interviews, supplemented by on-campus observation. The results are first analysed as a whole, and then split into different categories according to a set of background variables (gender, year of study, subject studied etc). This analysis indicates that, while English is recognised as the dominant language in South Africa and, more specifically, in the domain of education, some categories of respondents acknowledge the usefulness of isiXhosa as an additional medium of instruction. This survey clearly shows that it makes little sense to present isiXhosa-speaking students with a rigid choice between the existing English-medium and a dual-medium (English and isiXhosa) policy. If dual-mediumship is ever to be implemented, respondents seem to consider the use of isiXhosa as a medium of instruction more appropriate in the first years of study, for selected subjects and in some domains within the academic context rather than others. This study is part of a growing set of surveys on the attitudes of university students towards the use of African languages in education, and can be fruitfully compared with similar research at other institutions. Moreover, the results of the present research can be used to inform future decisions regarding language policy at the University of Fort Hare.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Dalvit, Lorenzo
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Native language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual , Language and education -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , University of Fort Hare -- Students -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002625 , Native language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , English language -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual , Language and education -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , University of Fort Hare -- Students -- Attitudes
- Description: The present work presents and discusses the results of a survey of a sample of isiXhosa-speaking students at the University of Fort Hare (Alice campus) and their attitudes towards the possible introduction of isiXhosa as a medium of instruction at this institution. More specifically, the research focuses on, among other things, the students’ attitudes towards English and isiXhosa and their opinions and beliefs about the introduction of dual-mediumship and its possible consequences. The survey methods used are a questionnaire survey as well as follow-up interviews, supplemented by on-campus observation. The results are first analysed as a whole, and then split into different categories according to a set of background variables (gender, year of study, subject studied etc). This analysis indicates that, while English is recognised as the dominant language in South Africa and, more specifically, in the domain of education, some categories of respondents acknowledge the usefulness of isiXhosa as an additional medium of instruction. This survey clearly shows that it makes little sense to present isiXhosa-speaking students with a rigid choice between the existing English-medium and a dual-medium (English and isiXhosa) policy. If dual-mediumship is ever to be implemented, respondents seem to consider the use of isiXhosa as a medium of instruction more appropriate in the first years of study, for selected subjects and in some domains within the academic context rather than others. This study is part of a growing set of surveys on the attitudes of university students towards the use of African languages in education, and can be fruitfully compared with similar research at other institutions. Moreover, the results of the present research can be used to inform future decisions regarding language policy at the University of Fort Hare.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Review of carbonate hosted lead-zinc (copper) deposits and the geological factors affecting their shape, size and grade
- Authors: McDonald, B
- Date: 1981
- Subjects: Lead ores , Zinc ores , Copper ores , Sedimentology , Sedimentation and deposition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5028 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006903
- Description: From Introduction: For at least two centuries and a corresponding number of generations of geologists and miners there has been active argument concerning the origin of certain types of carbonate hosted mineral deposit. The characterization of the type itself was and still is debatable. Objections have been raised to grouping several examples under one heading because each has its individually distinctive features. ·This is especially applicable to the carbonate hosted lead-zinc "sedimentary" deposits. The type that will be discussed in the text to follow is composed chiefly of galena, sphalerite, barite and fluorite, with pyrite , marcasite and chalcopyrite as conspicuous accessory ore minerals. Exceptions to this general copper deficient characteristic displayed by the sedimentary carbonate-hosted lead-zinc deposits are the deposits at Tsumeb and Kombat, Namibia. These deposits are hosted by the carbonate sequence of the Otavi Shelf sediments, and copper, in the form of tennantite, chalcopyrite and bornite, is the major ore constituent. Calcite, aragonite, dolomite and quartz are the commonest nonmetallic gangue minerals but siderite and silica may also be present. In contrast with other lead and zinc sulphide (volcanogenic) deposits, those to be considered here seldom carry noteworthy amounts of silver or any other precious metals. Commonly the country rock is a carbonate; limestone or dolomite, but deposits in. sandstone, shale and conglomerate are not unknown. Characteristic features are ore bodies that extend parallel or nearly so with the bedding although many such deposits are partly, or completely developed along crosscutting fissures and breccias. Some observers regard these fissure fillings as evidence for a magmatic source of the metals, whereas others regard them as an indication of remobilization of ions, metals or minerals orginally present in low-grade stratiform deposits elsewhere in the stratigraphic succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1981
- Authors: McDonald, B
- Date: 1981
- Subjects: Lead ores , Zinc ores , Copper ores , Sedimentology , Sedimentation and deposition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5028 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006903
- Description: From Introduction: For at least two centuries and a corresponding number of generations of geologists and miners there has been active argument concerning the origin of certain types of carbonate hosted mineral deposit. The characterization of the type itself was and still is debatable. Objections have been raised to grouping several examples under one heading because each has its individually distinctive features. ·This is especially applicable to the carbonate hosted lead-zinc "sedimentary" deposits. The type that will be discussed in the text to follow is composed chiefly of galena, sphalerite, barite and fluorite, with pyrite , marcasite and chalcopyrite as conspicuous accessory ore minerals. Exceptions to this general copper deficient characteristic displayed by the sedimentary carbonate-hosted lead-zinc deposits are the deposits at Tsumeb and Kombat, Namibia. These deposits are hosted by the carbonate sequence of the Otavi Shelf sediments, and copper, in the form of tennantite, chalcopyrite and bornite, is the major ore constituent. Calcite, aragonite, dolomite and quartz are the commonest nonmetallic gangue minerals but siderite and silica may also be present. In contrast with other lead and zinc sulphide (volcanogenic) deposits, those to be considered here seldom carry noteworthy amounts of silver or any other precious metals. Commonly the country rock is a carbonate; limestone or dolomite, but deposits in. sandstone, shale and conglomerate are not unknown. Characteristic features are ore bodies that extend parallel or nearly so with the bedding although many such deposits are partly, or completely developed along crosscutting fissures and breccias. Some observers regard these fissure fillings as evidence for a magmatic source of the metals, whereas others regard them as an indication of remobilization of ions, metals or minerals orginally present in low-grade stratiform deposits elsewhere in the stratigraphic succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1981
An evaluation of the effectiveness of organisational communication : a case of student-directed communication strategies at University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus
- Authors: Ncube, Sizalobuhle
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in organizations--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Communication
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17395 , vital:40964
- Description: Organisational communication entails the interaction that the management has with its stakeholders. Communication is never complete if the message sent has not been fully understood by the receiver. Hence, for communication to be effective, the sender has to provide two-way open channels of communication as it allows dialogue which stimulates reaching a consensus. Thus, this study was done to find out about the effectiveness of organisational communication in relation to the student-directed communication strategies at University of Fort hare, Alice campus. Data were collected from the participants through four focus groups consisting of ten randomly picked students, and in-depth interviews with five SRC members and five University management staff. A qualitative methodological approach was therefore used in this study for data collection and analysis. Furthermore, the data analysed were categorised into different themes. The findings of this study indicate that the right communication messages and channel must always be used by organisations when communicating with stakeholders. The study also found out that communication will be effective if messages are received as intended by the sender. Conclusively, the study notes that stakeholders should be included in decision making processes in the organisation and that if their needs are also catered for, this will make them to be fully involved in understanding organisational concerns positively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ncube, Sizalobuhle
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in organizations--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Communication
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17395 , vital:40964
- Description: Organisational communication entails the interaction that the management has with its stakeholders. Communication is never complete if the message sent has not been fully understood by the receiver. Hence, for communication to be effective, the sender has to provide two-way open channels of communication as it allows dialogue which stimulates reaching a consensus. Thus, this study was done to find out about the effectiveness of organisational communication in relation to the student-directed communication strategies at University of Fort hare, Alice campus. Data were collected from the participants through four focus groups consisting of ten randomly picked students, and in-depth interviews with five SRC members and five University management staff. A qualitative methodological approach was therefore used in this study for data collection and analysis. Furthermore, the data analysed were categorised into different themes. The findings of this study indicate that the right communication messages and channel must always be used by organisations when communicating with stakeholders. The study also found out that communication will be effective if messages are received as intended by the sender. Conclusively, the study notes that stakeholders should be included in decision making processes in the organisation and that if their needs are also catered for, this will make them to be fully involved in understanding organisational concerns positively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Research portfolio
- Authors: Shihako, Mathilde
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rundu College of Education (Namibia) Education -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003612
- Description: This portfolio discusses various important aspects that affect teacher education. The portfolio has become an important tool for assessment in education. The research component of the masters' course that I attended is reflected in this portfolio. To complete this course several aspects were covered. The educational reform process in the Namibian context requires the use of appropriate resources, an environment conducive to learning, active involvement of the learners and teachers who should have a better understanding of the system adopted. Teacher educators are seen as important in transforming Namibian education in the sense of breaking the cycle of authoritarianism and inequities that existed in schooling prior to independence in 1990, and that still continue to exist in many Namibian schools today. Much effort has been devoted to creating conditions in colleges of education, where future teachers experience the same kind of teaching and learning that is envisioned for schools in the country. To accomplish this a great deal of effort has been devoted to the professional development of teacher educators. This masters' course was initiated to address the shortcomings of teacher education in Namibia. The preparation of teacher educators to be willing and able to prepare teachers in a manner that is consistent with national educational goals has been a neglected element of educational reform in Third World countries (Taylor and Peacock, 1997). Nahas Angula defines teachers as critical agents in creating the reform in relation to several broad principals: access, equity, quality, and democracy. As Ebbutt and Elliot (1998) point out, these principles are defined in very broad terms and provide the opportunity for teachers, teacher educators, and administrators to translate the ideals in particular contexts through practical reflection and deliberation. The Namibian reforms are underpinned by democratic ideals, the intention being to develop broad participation in defining and developing the reform tenets in specific contexts. In Namibia it has been recognized that qualitative changes in classroom practice will only occur when teachers understand them and accept them as their own. It is also recognized that because many teachers have been educated under the authoritarian system of the past, conceptual changes are needed in the minds of the teachers for the reforms to be successful. These include a shift from the belief of teachers as civil servants who are merely to "deliver" a curriculum dictated from above, to one of teachers as reflective professionals who play important roles in interpreting and defining the reforms and in giving meaning to such values as learner-centered and democratic education, continuous assessment, and critical inquiry (Swarts 1998). In the case of Namibia, we have a situation where there is an attempt to fundamentally transform an authoritarian education system that emphasized repetition and rote learning of received knowledge to one where learners are active participants in the learning process and where the curriculum is relevant to and respectful of different cultural traditions and communities. The learner-centered philosophy that guides post-independence educational reforms in Namibia calls for breaking down the authoritarian teacher-student relationships of the past. It encourages teachers to begin instruction by gaining an understanding of their learners' existing knowledge, skills, and understandings and to actively involve them in the learning process toward the goal of preparing citizens for a democratic society. The background above will help the readers to understand the sections covered in this portfolio. In the first part, the portfolio looks at a case study that analyses pre- and post-independence teacher education in Namibia. This study focuses on the Rundu College of Education and investigates the implementation of the Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) Broad Curriculum in relation to the History syllabus. This paper presents information on what led to post-independence teacher education reforms in Namibia and why the reform was necessary. The BETD Broad Curriculum advocates the principles underpinning teacher education reforms in Namibia. The analysis looks at whether the History syllabus applies the principles of teacher education reform in relation to practice in the classroom. This paper addresses the historical background of a History curriculum, which shows the importance of a contextual understanding of the theoretical framework. The second paper looks at the theories underpinning the pre- and post-independence curriculum and the reform process in Namibia, how each theory views knowledge and why a decision was taken to apply them. The third paper is a literature review that links the epistemological ideals of reform to the classroom situation. This paper provides the basis for a small-scale empirical research. The research proposal included in the portfolio emerged from the earlier studies and identifies a key area for investigation within the domain of my particular area of teaching. The identified research problem investigated is presented in the final paper of the portfolio. These research findings can be applied to different situations in different schools. The portfolio is completed by the presentation of a short reflection of the role of the portfolio in this masters' course.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Shihako, Mathilde
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rundu College of Education (Namibia) Education -- Namibia Educational change -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Teaching -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003612
- Description: This portfolio discusses various important aspects that affect teacher education. The portfolio has become an important tool for assessment in education. The research component of the masters' course that I attended is reflected in this portfolio. To complete this course several aspects were covered. The educational reform process in the Namibian context requires the use of appropriate resources, an environment conducive to learning, active involvement of the learners and teachers who should have a better understanding of the system adopted. Teacher educators are seen as important in transforming Namibian education in the sense of breaking the cycle of authoritarianism and inequities that existed in schooling prior to independence in 1990, and that still continue to exist in many Namibian schools today. Much effort has been devoted to creating conditions in colleges of education, where future teachers experience the same kind of teaching and learning that is envisioned for schools in the country. To accomplish this a great deal of effort has been devoted to the professional development of teacher educators. This masters' course was initiated to address the shortcomings of teacher education in Namibia. The preparation of teacher educators to be willing and able to prepare teachers in a manner that is consistent with national educational goals has been a neglected element of educational reform in Third World countries (Taylor and Peacock, 1997). Nahas Angula defines teachers as critical agents in creating the reform in relation to several broad principals: access, equity, quality, and democracy. As Ebbutt and Elliot (1998) point out, these principles are defined in very broad terms and provide the opportunity for teachers, teacher educators, and administrators to translate the ideals in particular contexts through practical reflection and deliberation. The Namibian reforms are underpinned by democratic ideals, the intention being to develop broad participation in defining and developing the reform tenets in specific contexts. In Namibia it has been recognized that qualitative changes in classroom practice will only occur when teachers understand them and accept them as their own. It is also recognized that because many teachers have been educated under the authoritarian system of the past, conceptual changes are needed in the minds of the teachers for the reforms to be successful. These include a shift from the belief of teachers as civil servants who are merely to "deliver" a curriculum dictated from above, to one of teachers as reflective professionals who play important roles in interpreting and defining the reforms and in giving meaning to such values as learner-centered and democratic education, continuous assessment, and critical inquiry (Swarts 1998). In the case of Namibia, we have a situation where there is an attempt to fundamentally transform an authoritarian education system that emphasized repetition and rote learning of received knowledge to one where learners are active participants in the learning process and where the curriculum is relevant to and respectful of different cultural traditions and communities. The learner-centered philosophy that guides post-independence educational reforms in Namibia calls for breaking down the authoritarian teacher-student relationships of the past. It encourages teachers to begin instruction by gaining an understanding of their learners' existing knowledge, skills, and understandings and to actively involve them in the learning process toward the goal of preparing citizens for a democratic society. The background above will help the readers to understand the sections covered in this portfolio. In the first part, the portfolio looks at a case study that analyses pre- and post-independence teacher education in Namibia. This study focuses on the Rundu College of Education and investigates the implementation of the Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) Broad Curriculum in relation to the History syllabus. This paper presents information on what led to post-independence teacher education reforms in Namibia and why the reform was necessary. The BETD Broad Curriculum advocates the principles underpinning teacher education reforms in Namibia. The analysis looks at whether the History syllabus applies the principles of teacher education reform in relation to practice in the classroom. This paper addresses the historical background of a History curriculum, which shows the importance of a contextual understanding of the theoretical framework. The second paper looks at the theories underpinning the pre- and post-independence curriculum and the reform process in Namibia, how each theory views knowledge and why a decision was taken to apply them. The third paper is a literature review that links the epistemological ideals of reform to the classroom situation. This paper provides the basis for a small-scale empirical research. The research proposal included in the portfolio emerged from the earlier studies and identifies a key area for investigation within the domain of my particular area of teaching. The identified research problem investigated is presented in the final paper of the portfolio. These research findings can be applied to different situations in different schools. The portfolio is completed by the presentation of a short reflection of the role of the portfolio in this masters' course.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
A reconstruction of the history of land degradation in relation to land use change and land tenure in Peddie district, former Ciskei
- Authors: Kakembo, Vincent
- Date: 1997
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land tenure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005523 , Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land tenure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A history of land degradation is reconstructed in a part of the dividing ridge between the Great Fish and Keiskamma rivers, in Peddie District, former Ciskei. The study entails a comparative investigation of the progressive changes in land use, vegetation and soil erosion in three tenure units, namely: former commercial farms, traditional and betterment villages. Analysis of the sequential aerial photography of the area for 1938,1954, 1965, 1975 and 1988 is employed. This is backed by groundtruthing exercises. Data thus obtained are quantified, and linkages between degradation, anthropogenic and physical factors are derived using PC ARC/INFO GIS. Differences in land tenure systems emerge as the main controlling factor to variations in land degradation. Confinement of vegetation diminution and erosion to traditional and betterment villages is observed at all dates. Scantily vegetated surfaces and riparian vegetation removal are a characteristic feature of both areas throughout the study period. 'Betterment,' introduced in the early 1960s to curb land degradation is, instead observed to exacerbate it, particularly soil erosion. Trends in land use change are characterised by the abandonment of cultivated land, which is noted to coincide with a sharp rise in population. Erosion intensification into severe forms particularly between 1965 and 1975, coincident with a period of extreme rainfall events, emerges as the most significant degradation trend. A close spatial correlation between abandoned cultivated land and intricate gullies is identified. So is the case between grazing land and severe sheet erosion. Within the grazing lands, an examination of erosion and categories of vegetated surfaces reveals that erosion occurs predominantly on the scanty vegetation category. Such erosion-vegetation interaction largely explains the non-recovery of the scanty vegetation category, even during periods of intense rainfall. Extensive channel degradation is evident along stream courses with scanty riparian vegetation. Physical factors are noted to have a significant bearing on erosion. The high prevalence of erosion on the Ecca group of rocks confirms its erosion-prone nature. Pockets of colluvium and alluvium accumulation in the steep bottomlands are identified as the sites of the most severe gully erosion. Field surveys at some of the sites indicate that a dolerite sill through the area forms a boundary of colluvium accumulation and the upslope limit to gully incision. That these sites are recognised as formerly cultivated land, portrays the interaction between physical and anthropogenic variables with regard to inducing degradation in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1997
- Authors: Kakembo, Vincent
- Date: 1997
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land tenure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005523 , Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Soil erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land tenure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: A history of land degradation is reconstructed in a part of the dividing ridge between the Great Fish and Keiskamma rivers, in Peddie District, former Ciskei. The study entails a comparative investigation of the progressive changes in land use, vegetation and soil erosion in three tenure units, namely: former commercial farms, traditional and betterment villages. Analysis of the sequential aerial photography of the area for 1938,1954, 1965, 1975 and 1988 is employed. This is backed by groundtruthing exercises. Data thus obtained are quantified, and linkages between degradation, anthropogenic and physical factors are derived using PC ARC/INFO GIS. Differences in land tenure systems emerge as the main controlling factor to variations in land degradation. Confinement of vegetation diminution and erosion to traditional and betterment villages is observed at all dates. Scantily vegetated surfaces and riparian vegetation removal are a characteristic feature of both areas throughout the study period. 'Betterment,' introduced in the early 1960s to curb land degradation is, instead observed to exacerbate it, particularly soil erosion. Trends in land use change are characterised by the abandonment of cultivated land, which is noted to coincide with a sharp rise in population. Erosion intensification into severe forms particularly between 1965 and 1975, coincident with a period of extreme rainfall events, emerges as the most significant degradation trend. A close spatial correlation between abandoned cultivated land and intricate gullies is identified. So is the case between grazing land and severe sheet erosion. Within the grazing lands, an examination of erosion and categories of vegetated surfaces reveals that erosion occurs predominantly on the scanty vegetation category. Such erosion-vegetation interaction largely explains the non-recovery of the scanty vegetation category, even during periods of intense rainfall. Extensive channel degradation is evident along stream courses with scanty riparian vegetation. Physical factors are noted to have a significant bearing on erosion. The high prevalence of erosion on the Ecca group of rocks confirms its erosion-prone nature. Pockets of colluvium and alluvium accumulation in the steep bottomlands are identified as the sites of the most severe gully erosion. Field surveys at some of the sites indicate that a dolerite sill through the area forms a boundary of colluvium accumulation and the upslope limit to gully incision. That these sites are recognised as formerly cultivated land, portrays the interaction between physical and anthropogenic variables with regard to inducing degradation in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1997
The conflict between adaptation and constraint : the case of the Siphonariid limpets
- Authors: Chambers, Richard Jonathan
- Date: 1995
- Subjects: Siphonaria -- Adaptation Limpets -- Adaptation Pulmonata
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5657 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005340
- Description: The reproductive strategies of marine invertebrates have been related to various aspects of both their ecology, and their phylogenetic history. It has been the purpose of this thesis to try and separate these components among Siphonaria, a group of marine pulmonates. The taxonomy of these species is revised and I conclude that nine species are valid. All species deposit benthic egg masses and development may be either direct (S. anneae, S. compressa, S. dayi, S. nigerrima, S. serrata and S. tenuicostulata) or planktonic (S. capensis, S.concinna and S. oculus). Data on distribution and life-history relating to mode of larval development is then presented for 26 species of Siphonaria worldwide. Fifteen species are direct developers, nine are planktonic developers and a further two appear to have a dual developmental capacity, retaining both the velar swimming apparatus of a planktonic developer and the crawling foot of a direct developer. Direct developing species hatch from larger egg capsules, and generally occur higher on the shore than planktonic developers. Worldwide, planktonic developers are more widespread than direct developers, and individual planktonic species may have a greater latitudinal range. In most S~honaria subgenera, mode of larval development appears to be constant, although two subgenera (Patel/opsis and Sacculosiphonaria) include both developmental types. Locally, the intertidal zonation of three sympatric species (S. capensis, S. concinna and S. serrata) does not support a model which predicts direct development on the high shore and planktonic development on the low shore. However, distributions do correspond to particular intertidal microhabitats, and while there may be no, direct relationship between mode of larval development and intertidal height, the physical structure of egg masses, and the microhabitats used for spawning appear adaptive with regards to desiccation in the intertidal. S. concinna (planktonic development) and S. serrata (direct development) occur in similar microhabitats and are likely to be under similar selection pressures. In having different modes of larval development, there appears to be more than one optimal solution in a particular selective regime. In addition, both species seem to apportion similar amounts of energy to reproduction for each spawning episode, and also annually suggesting an optimum allocation of resources to reproduction. Genetic investigations using PolyAcrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (PAGE) confirm the status of the southern African species initially described, and indicate greater genetic variability associated with planktonic developing species than direct developing species. The systematic relationships revealed by DNA fingerprinting support the current classification systems, and also have implications with regards the evolution of larval development: direct development may be the plesiomorphic condition in, and among, some Siphonaria groups. There are both phylogenetic and adaptive explanations for the distribution of reproductive mode among benthic marine invertebrates. An evolutionary question, however, is not just a matter of either adaptation or constraint, it is a combination of these. Both contribute to the distribution of developmental mode among Siphonaria.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1995
- Authors: Chambers, Richard Jonathan
- Date: 1995
- Subjects: Siphonaria -- Adaptation Limpets -- Adaptation Pulmonata
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5657 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005340
- Description: The reproductive strategies of marine invertebrates have been related to various aspects of both their ecology, and their phylogenetic history. It has been the purpose of this thesis to try and separate these components among Siphonaria, a group of marine pulmonates. The taxonomy of these species is revised and I conclude that nine species are valid. All species deposit benthic egg masses and development may be either direct (S. anneae, S. compressa, S. dayi, S. nigerrima, S. serrata and S. tenuicostulata) or planktonic (S. capensis, S.concinna and S. oculus). Data on distribution and life-history relating to mode of larval development is then presented for 26 species of Siphonaria worldwide. Fifteen species are direct developers, nine are planktonic developers and a further two appear to have a dual developmental capacity, retaining both the velar swimming apparatus of a planktonic developer and the crawling foot of a direct developer. Direct developing species hatch from larger egg capsules, and generally occur higher on the shore than planktonic developers. Worldwide, planktonic developers are more widespread than direct developers, and individual planktonic species may have a greater latitudinal range. In most S~honaria subgenera, mode of larval development appears to be constant, although two subgenera (Patel/opsis and Sacculosiphonaria) include both developmental types. Locally, the intertidal zonation of three sympatric species (S. capensis, S. concinna and S. serrata) does not support a model which predicts direct development on the high shore and planktonic development on the low shore. However, distributions do correspond to particular intertidal microhabitats, and while there may be no, direct relationship between mode of larval development and intertidal height, the physical structure of egg masses, and the microhabitats used for spawning appear adaptive with regards to desiccation in the intertidal. S. concinna (planktonic development) and S. serrata (direct development) occur in similar microhabitats and are likely to be under similar selection pressures. In having different modes of larval development, there appears to be more than one optimal solution in a particular selective regime. In addition, both species seem to apportion similar amounts of energy to reproduction for each spawning episode, and also annually suggesting an optimum allocation of resources to reproduction. Genetic investigations using PolyAcrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (PAGE) confirm the status of the southern African species initially described, and indicate greater genetic variability associated with planktonic developing species than direct developing species. The systematic relationships revealed by DNA fingerprinting support the current classification systems, and also have implications with regards the evolution of larval development: direct development may be the plesiomorphic condition in, and among, some Siphonaria groups. There are both phylogenetic and adaptive explanations for the distribution of reproductive mode among benthic marine invertebrates. An evolutionary question, however, is not just a matter of either adaptation or constraint, it is a combination of these. Both contribute to the distribution of developmental mode among Siphonaria.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1995
Traditional practices and girl education in rural Democratic Republic of Congo: exploring the voices of Luba girls
- Authors: Lubadi, Kyungu Lubaba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Girls -- Education -- Congo (Democratic Republic) Rural schools -- Congo (Democratic Republic) , Sex discrimination in education -- Congo (Democratic Republic)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18321 , vital:28619
- Description: Girl child education has been a challenge for many African countries due to the patriarchal gender order of communities. This is not different in the Democratic Republic of Congo where son preference is still rife. This study sought to explore how girls in rural Lubaland in DRC experience their schooling in relation to the traditional gendered practices. A qualitative approach to research was employed within an interpretive paradigm. Young school going girls were purposively selected from two rural schools in Malemba and Mwanza. A total of 18 girls became participants to the study. Data were generated through the use of drawings and focus group discussions to explore how the girls saw themselves as girls and students at home, on the way to school and at school. This was done in order to understand how they experience their schooling lives. The findings revealed several gendered challenges that the rural girls experience daily in terms of gaining access to and succeeding in schools. The challenge of son preference and gender role stereotyping created challenges for girls at home, while lack of facilities for girls’ sexual health and long distances to school created challenges for girls on the way to school. At school the girls experienced challenge of being unable to afford school fees and corporal punishment. If these challenges are to be eradicated, there is need for all stakeholders in education, including traditional leaders and communities to deconstruct the gendered dynamics that position women and girls as subordinate and not deserving of an education. This study has implications for educational planning in the Democratic Republic of Congo for girl children to get better access and success in their education. The findings also highlight the need for more concerted efforts to understand the experiences of schooling girls across DRC in order to influence teacher training and educational provisioning that is girl friendly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lubadi, Kyungu Lubaba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Girls -- Education -- Congo (Democratic Republic) Rural schools -- Congo (Democratic Republic) , Sex discrimination in education -- Congo (Democratic Republic)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18321 , vital:28619
- Description: Girl child education has been a challenge for many African countries due to the patriarchal gender order of communities. This is not different in the Democratic Republic of Congo where son preference is still rife. This study sought to explore how girls in rural Lubaland in DRC experience their schooling in relation to the traditional gendered practices. A qualitative approach to research was employed within an interpretive paradigm. Young school going girls were purposively selected from two rural schools in Malemba and Mwanza. A total of 18 girls became participants to the study. Data were generated through the use of drawings and focus group discussions to explore how the girls saw themselves as girls and students at home, on the way to school and at school. This was done in order to understand how they experience their schooling lives. The findings revealed several gendered challenges that the rural girls experience daily in terms of gaining access to and succeeding in schools. The challenge of son preference and gender role stereotyping created challenges for girls at home, while lack of facilities for girls’ sexual health and long distances to school created challenges for girls on the way to school. At school the girls experienced challenge of being unable to afford school fees and corporal punishment. If these challenges are to be eradicated, there is need for all stakeholders in education, including traditional leaders and communities to deconstruct the gendered dynamics that position women and girls as subordinate and not deserving of an education. This study has implications for educational planning in the Democratic Republic of Congo for girl children to get better access and success in their education. The findings also highlight the need for more concerted efforts to understand the experiences of schooling girls across DRC in order to influence teacher training and educational provisioning that is girl friendly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The making of business news in Africa: a case study of Cameroon Tribune newspaper
- Authors: Tawe, Ngamale Emmanuel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Journalism -- Cameroon Mass media -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Cameroon Cameroon Tribune (Cameroon) Journalism, Commercial -- Sociological aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Social aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Economic aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Political aspects -- Cameroon Cameroon -- Economic conditions Elite (Social sciences)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002942
- Description: Since the emergence of business journalism as a genre within the broad spectrum of news reporting, most of the scholarly works into its development have focused on growth in the western (that is developed) world. This indicates that very limited research has been done in the field of business journalism in the developing economies. Thus there exist gaps in understanding the practice of business journalism in Africa and part of this is rooted in how the practice is defined. This study aims to shed light on the practice of business journalism in this African context. It explores the onset and development of business journalism and its evolution in Africa. The main focus in this case study was to understand the definition of business news in the specific context of the Cameroon Tribune. Individual in-depth interviews were used as the main (primary) data collection method along with observation and cursory reading as complementary (secondary) methods. This study is influenced by the sociology of news production which foregrounds theoretical frames such as news construction and gatekeeping. Findings from this study reveal that business news at the Cameroon Tribune is elitist, essentially defined around personality and, is in the most part, development news. Additional findings indicate that the absence of any editorial guidelines leaves most reporters secondguessing how to please management with socialised values mostly acquired through peer learning. In conclusion, this study advances the necessity for the Africanisation of business news. This would entail reporting financial, economic, consumer, and corporate affairs, from a vocabulary and composition context that unveils much exchange taking place in the lives of many Africans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tawe, Ngamale Emmanuel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Journalism -- Cameroon Mass media -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Cameroon Cameroon Tribune (Cameroon) Journalism, Commercial -- Sociological aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Social aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Economic aspects -- Cameroon Journalism, Commercial -- Political aspects -- Cameroon Cameroon -- Economic conditions Elite (Social sciences)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002942
- Description: Since the emergence of business journalism as a genre within the broad spectrum of news reporting, most of the scholarly works into its development have focused on growth in the western (that is developed) world. This indicates that very limited research has been done in the field of business journalism in the developing economies. Thus there exist gaps in understanding the practice of business journalism in Africa and part of this is rooted in how the practice is defined. This study aims to shed light on the practice of business journalism in this African context. It explores the onset and development of business journalism and its evolution in Africa. The main focus in this case study was to understand the definition of business news in the specific context of the Cameroon Tribune. Individual in-depth interviews were used as the main (primary) data collection method along with observation and cursory reading as complementary (secondary) methods. This study is influenced by the sociology of news production which foregrounds theoretical frames such as news construction and gatekeeping. Findings from this study reveal that business news at the Cameroon Tribune is elitist, essentially defined around personality and, is in the most part, development news. Additional findings indicate that the absence of any editorial guidelines leaves most reporters secondguessing how to please management with socialised values mostly acquired through peer learning. In conclusion, this study advances the necessity for the Africanisation of business news. This would entail reporting financial, economic, consumer, and corporate affairs, from a vocabulary and composition context that unveils much exchange taking place in the lives of many Africans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012