Intergroup conflict in selected schools in Diepkloof, Johannesburg North District
- Authors: Mkhomi, Moses Sipho
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Intergroup relations -- South Africa , Conflict management -- South Africa , Social groups -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8482 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020924
- Description: Intergroup conflicts are rife in public schools and often the bone of contention is promotional posts. These conflicts can affect the quality of teaching and learning if the focus of the teachers moves from the primary purpose of teaching to contesting senior posts. In addition, such contestation often splits the teaching staff into groups or factions. One such split is between the group made up of teachers belonging to the politically-aligned union and the group of teachers from non-politically aligned teacher unions or those not unionised at all. The School Governing Body parent-wing is often caught in conflict between these two groups as it has the legislative power to recommend appointment to the District Director. It is within this context that this study explores the perceptions of stakeholders in selected schools in Diepkloof with regard to intergroup conflict and investigates whether cadre deployment plays a role in this conflict. The findings of this study reveal stakeholders‟ perceptions that politically-aligned unions tend to exert influence to have their members promoted and, in the process, often overlook better qualified educators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mkhomi, Moses Sipho
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Intergroup relations -- South Africa , Conflict management -- South Africa , Social groups -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8482 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020924
- Description: Intergroup conflicts are rife in public schools and often the bone of contention is promotional posts. These conflicts can affect the quality of teaching and learning if the focus of the teachers moves from the primary purpose of teaching to contesting senior posts. In addition, such contestation often splits the teaching staff into groups or factions. One such split is between the group made up of teachers belonging to the politically-aligned union and the group of teachers from non-politically aligned teacher unions or those not unionised at all. The School Governing Body parent-wing is often caught in conflict between these two groups as it has the legislative power to recommend appointment to the District Director. It is within this context that this study explores the perceptions of stakeholders in selected schools in Diepkloof with regard to intergroup conflict and investigates whether cadre deployment plays a role in this conflict. The findings of this study reveal stakeholders‟ perceptions that politically-aligned unions tend to exert influence to have their members promoted and, in the process, often overlook better qualified educators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation into the factors affecting street trading in the Mnquma Local Municipality
- Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013128
- Description: This study investigates the challenges faced by street traders in Mnquma Local Municipality. The purpose is to examine the factors affecting street traders trading at N2 Mthatha Street at Butterworth in Mnquma Local Municipality. For this reason, it was necessary to study the literature on local economic development. The challenges facing street traders were also investigated and analysed in order to formulate recommendations for solving challenges facing street trading in Mnquma Local Municipality. In order to fulfil the objective of the study and to address the research problem faceto-face interviews were conducted with the street traders, municipal officials and Hawkers’ Association. The literature review and the interviews enabled the recommendation of possible answers to the problem. These recommendations would be valuable and, one hopes, will also be of assistance to the Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by street traders in Butterworth include lack of financial support to start their businesses. Also, the fact that there is no water taps that can be used by the members of the public in the Central Business District (CBD) in Butterworth as well as street lights at night is one of the challenges. Recommendations were made with regard to support and assistance for street traders, environmental management and also a recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma local municipality can implement all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised by street traders as disturbing the functionality of their businesses particularly in Butterworth will be rectified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013128
- Description: This study investigates the challenges faced by street traders in Mnquma Local Municipality. The purpose is to examine the factors affecting street traders trading at N2 Mthatha Street at Butterworth in Mnquma Local Municipality. For this reason, it was necessary to study the literature on local economic development. The challenges facing street traders were also investigated and analysed in order to formulate recommendations for solving challenges facing street trading in Mnquma Local Municipality. In order to fulfil the objective of the study and to address the research problem faceto-face interviews were conducted with the street traders, municipal officials and Hawkers’ Association. The literature review and the interviews enabled the recommendation of possible answers to the problem. These recommendations would be valuable and, one hopes, will also be of assistance to the Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by street traders in Butterworth include lack of financial support to start their businesses. Also, the fact that there is no water taps that can be used by the members of the public in the Central Business District (CBD) in Butterworth as well as street lights at night is one of the challenges. Recommendations were made with regard to support and assistance for street traders, environmental management and also a recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma local municipality can implement all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised by street traders as disturbing the functionality of their businesses particularly in Butterworth will be rectified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation of community music in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth :a case study of five community bands
- Tobias, Michael Charles Peter
- Authors: Tobias, Michael Charles Peter
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Community music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Bands (Music) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8528 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020949
- Description: The Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth are mostly comprised of the so called “Coloured” community and is vibrant in tradition and musical activities. Community music in the form of marching bands, brigade bands, wind bands and brass bands form a central part of the music activities in this area. The non-availability of music education in schools combined with the multitude of social challenges creates a cultural and moral vacuum. Children are not exposed to the finer arts and music in particular and without these bands and groups probably never will. This study will explore five community bands/groups and the role they play in the lives of people and especially the children and the youth. The impact and influence music has on the social upliftment of under-privileged children in this area has never been studied. The study shows the big impact these bands/groups have on the children and the communities they serve and highlights the dedication and good work of those band managers working with these groups. The study concludes with a proposal that an art/music centre be established in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tobias, Michael Charles Peter
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Community music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Bands (Music) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8528 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020949
- Description: The Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth are mostly comprised of the so called “Coloured” community and is vibrant in tradition and musical activities. Community music in the form of marching bands, brigade bands, wind bands and brass bands form a central part of the music activities in this area. The non-availability of music education in schools combined with the multitude of social challenges creates a cultural and moral vacuum. Children are not exposed to the finer arts and music in particular and without these bands and groups probably never will. This study will explore five community bands/groups and the role they play in the lives of people and especially the children and the youth. The impact and influence music has on the social upliftment of under-privileged children in this area has never been studied. The study shows the big impact these bands/groups have on the children and the communities they serve and highlights the dedication and good work of those band managers working with these groups. The study concludes with a proposal that an art/music centre be established in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An assesssment of skills development programmes for selected employees: the case of Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Gaqazele, Constance Yandisa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Career development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020827
- Description: Municipalities play an important role in accelerating service delivery to all communities. This study is an assessment of skills development programmes for selected employees at the Amathole District Municipality (ADM). The ADM is known as a predominantly rural district. The study revealed that the municipality is faced with a lack of proper skills to accelerate service delivery. This has resulted in the institution neglecting to invest in the development of those competencies needed to function in a constantly changing educational, training and development environment. The success of any organisation depends on its human resources, who are the most important asset. Therefore effective and efficient human resources management and training and development management play a critical role in the well-being of employees. Human resources training and development policies, practices and activities guide the institution with implementation of services and should take on a more strategic role to achieve their objectives. The researcher employed the quantitative research methodology for purposes of the empirical survey and also reviewed official documents and reports. A suitably constructed questionnaire was developed and distributed to the selected sample group from the ADM. The researcher also consulted legislation, official documents, articles, journals, policy documents, reports and books in an effort to obtain as much relevant information as possible. Based on the information gathered from the respondents and literature review the researcher proposes certain recommendations in the final chapter of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gaqazele, Constance Yandisa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Career development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020827
- Description: Municipalities play an important role in accelerating service delivery to all communities. This study is an assessment of skills development programmes for selected employees at the Amathole District Municipality (ADM). The ADM is known as a predominantly rural district. The study revealed that the municipality is faced with a lack of proper skills to accelerate service delivery. This has resulted in the institution neglecting to invest in the development of those competencies needed to function in a constantly changing educational, training and development environment. The success of any organisation depends on its human resources, who are the most important asset. Therefore effective and efficient human resources management and training and development management play a critical role in the well-being of employees. Human resources training and development policies, practices and activities guide the institution with implementation of services and should take on a more strategic role to achieve their objectives. The researcher employed the quantitative research methodology for purposes of the empirical survey and also reviewed official documents and reports. A suitably constructed questionnaire was developed and distributed to the selected sample group from the ADM. The researcher also consulted legislation, official documents, articles, journals, policy documents, reports and books in an effort to obtain as much relevant information as possible. Based on the information gathered from the respondents and literature review the researcher proposes certain recommendations in the final chapter of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A study of South African journalists' perceptions of their roles in reporting on social conflict and how these relate to concepts of peace journalism
- Authors: Du Toit, Peter Andrew
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Journalists -- South Africa , Social conflict -- South Africa , Peace-building -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8247 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011639 , Journalists -- South Africa , Social conflict -- South Africa , Peace-building -- South Africa
- Description: Set against a backdrop of ongoing social conflict in the country, this study sets out to explore how South African journalists understand their roles and responsibilities when it comes to reporting on conflict. The study seeks to determine whether journalists believe they have a constructive contribution to make in the peaceful management and resolution of social conflict. It also seeks to establish whether journalists see themselves as being able to contribute to creating conditions that can facilitate dialogue and constructive engagement. Furthermore the study aims to explore the extent to which the views and perceptions of South African journalists could be said to be consistent with the ideas put forward in the emerging field of peace journalism. In seeking to address these questions the study begins by identifying a core set of guidelines that could be said to characteristic of peace journalism. It then draws on in-depth interviews conducted with 12 experienced reporters to gain a sense of how journalists understand their roles. The 12 reporters were drawn from mainstream newspapers from South Africa’s main metropolitan areas. Following an analysis of these interviews the study found that many journalists see themselves as having a positive contribution to make towards peacemaking and peace building. However, these contributions, they argue, must be seen as the product of good reporting rather than as emanating from deliberate attempts to intervene in conflict. The study then contrasted the journalists’ perceptions with the principles and normative guidelines proposed by peace journalism and found that many of the journalists’ beliefs are consistent with peace journalism. It appears that, while they may not directly call themselves peace journalists, many of the reporters interviewed saw themselves as playing roles similar to those advocated by peace journalism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Du Toit, Peter Andrew
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Journalists -- South Africa , Social conflict -- South Africa , Peace-building -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8247 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011639 , Journalists -- South Africa , Social conflict -- South Africa , Peace-building -- South Africa
- Description: Set against a backdrop of ongoing social conflict in the country, this study sets out to explore how South African journalists understand their roles and responsibilities when it comes to reporting on conflict. The study seeks to determine whether journalists believe they have a constructive contribution to make in the peaceful management and resolution of social conflict. It also seeks to establish whether journalists see themselves as being able to contribute to creating conditions that can facilitate dialogue and constructive engagement. Furthermore the study aims to explore the extent to which the views and perceptions of South African journalists could be said to be consistent with the ideas put forward in the emerging field of peace journalism. In seeking to address these questions the study begins by identifying a core set of guidelines that could be said to characteristic of peace journalism. It then draws on in-depth interviews conducted with 12 experienced reporters to gain a sense of how journalists understand their roles. The 12 reporters were drawn from mainstream newspapers from South Africa’s main metropolitan areas. Following an analysis of these interviews the study found that many journalists see themselves as having a positive contribution to make towards peacemaking and peace building. However, these contributions, they argue, must be seen as the product of good reporting rather than as emanating from deliberate attempts to intervene in conflict. The study then contrasted the journalists’ perceptions with the principles and normative guidelines proposed by peace journalism and found that many of the journalists’ beliefs are consistent with peace journalism. It appears that, while they may not directly call themselves peace journalists, many of the reporters interviewed saw themselves as playing roles similar to those advocated by peace journalism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The role of conflict management in maintenance of discipline : the case of Kenya's public secondary schools
- Authors: Kibui, Agnes Wanja
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline -- Kenya , Discipline of children -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:16151 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020074
- Description: This study set out to establish the role of conflict Management in Maintenance of Discipline in Kenya’s Public Secondary Schools. The study formulated 6 objectives as follows: examine the nature of Conflict experienced in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya; establish how teachers and students perceive conflict in secondary schools; determine how teachers and students experience conflict in Secondary Schools; investigate the effectiveness of conflict Management Programmes used in Secondary Schools; discover suitable conflict management programmes to address present and future conflict in secondary schools; generate findings based on a theoretical approach for understanding and managing conflict in secondary schools with particular reference to schools in Kenya. The research was conducted in the form of a descriptive survey design with a mixed methods approach which combined qualitative research design and quantitative research technique. A sample of 649 Students, 16 secondary school head teachers, and 16 secondary school guidance and counseling officers from 4 provinces in Kenya was used to obtain data for the study. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data was collected using questionnaires and structured interviews. Descriptive statistics such as mean, percentages, standard deviation, and frequencies was used to discuss the research findings. The study also used inferential statistics, particularly chi-square to test the significant statistical differences on the nature of conflict in schools, how students and teachers experience and perceive conflict in different categories of schools. From the findings, students witness conflict in form of theft, 51.7%, bullying, 29 percent, rumours and fights. Results from males and females indicate that drugs are abused in secondary schools (males (26.8%) and females (13.6 percent). All the respondents revealed that students take drugs to please their peers, and to release stress, and for adventure. On the effectiveness of conflict management programmes, a majority of students accept punishment when they break the school rules (80.0%) as they feel that punishments improve their behaviour. Most of the teachers had not had proper training in conflict management and some of them do not understand the role of peer mediation as they lack such programmes in their schools. The study concluded that failure to train teachers in conflict management skills, and to involve students in decision making causes conflict in schools. The study recommended that life skills, and peace keeping lessons should be taught in schools. In addition, head teachers and teachers should go for a refresher course in conflict management. Also, the study recommends that a comparative study should be done in a wider scope in secondary schools that experience conflict and those that do not, so as to get an insight of the suitable strategies needed to manage conflict in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kibui, Agnes Wanja
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline -- Kenya , Discipline of children -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:16151 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020074
- Description: This study set out to establish the role of conflict Management in Maintenance of Discipline in Kenya’s Public Secondary Schools. The study formulated 6 objectives as follows: examine the nature of Conflict experienced in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya; establish how teachers and students perceive conflict in secondary schools; determine how teachers and students experience conflict in Secondary Schools; investigate the effectiveness of conflict Management Programmes used in Secondary Schools; discover suitable conflict management programmes to address present and future conflict in secondary schools; generate findings based on a theoretical approach for understanding and managing conflict in secondary schools with particular reference to schools in Kenya. The research was conducted in the form of a descriptive survey design with a mixed methods approach which combined qualitative research design and quantitative research technique. A sample of 649 Students, 16 secondary school head teachers, and 16 secondary school guidance and counseling officers from 4 provinces in Kenya was used to obtain data for the study. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data was collected using questionnaires and structured interviews. Descriptive statistics such as mean, percentages, standard deviation, and frequencies was used to discuss the research findings. The study also used inferential statistics, particularly chi-square to test the significant statistical differences on the nature of conflict in schools, how students and teachers experience and perceive conflict in different categories of schools. From the findings, students witness conflict in form of theft, 51.7%, bullying, 29 percent, rumours and fights. Results from males and females indicate that drugs are abused in secondary schools (males (26.8%) and females (13.6 percent). All the respondents revealed that students take drugs to please their peers, and to release stress, and for adventure. On the effectiveness of conflict management programmes, a majority of students accept punishment when they break the school rules (80.0%) as they feel that punishments improve their behaviour. Most of the teachers had not had proper training in conflict management and some of them do not understand the role of peer mediation as they lack such programmes in their schools. The study concluded that failure to train teachers in conflict management skills, and to involve students in decision making causes conflict in schools. The study recommended that life skills, and peace keeping lessons should be taught in schools. In addition, head teachers and teachers should go for a refresher course in conflict management. Also, the study recommends that a comparative study should be done in a wider scope in secondary schools that experience conflict and those that do not, so as to get an insight of the suitable strategies needed to manage conflict in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Assessing the municipal performance management system on service delivery : the case of Lukhanji Municipality
- Authors: Bam, Liseka Lindelwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Public administration -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Local government -- South Africa -- Queenstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020140
- Description: The performance management system has been introduced in the South African public service with the intensions of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing underperformers and recognising and rewarding good performance. This study was undertaken as an attempt to assess whether the Lukhanji municipality performance management systems contribute to the improvement of service delivery and employee productivity. The literature review undertaken in this study, shows that there is a general poor understanding of performance management systems in Lukhanji municipality. The literature review further establishes that there are several challenges that hinder the effective implementation of a performance management system in the municipality. Other findings of the study include that there is a challenge in setting the unrealistic performance targets which are unrealisable by employees. These are the reasons why productivity levels are not always realised and targets not achieved by Lukhanji municipality. The main findings of the study are that, although performance management systems play a significant role in the improvement of service delivery, it has not contributed in the improvement of employee productivity of the Lukhanji municipality. The main recommendation on the basis of this finding is that there should be thorough and regular training of officials within the Lukhanji Municipality about the performance management system and how it influences productivity and service delivery. In conclusion, the Municipal Executive Mayoral Committee should demand verifiable evidence to justify a higher rating during quarterly assessments, and that punitive disciplinary measures be taken against those who do not comply with the provision of the performance management system framework, particularly failure to submit performance instruments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bam, Liseka Lindelwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Public administration -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Local government -- South Africa -- Queenstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020140
- Description: The performance management system has been introduced in the South African public service with the intensions of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing underperformers and recognising and rewarding good performance. This study was undertaken as an attempt to assess whether the Lukhanji municipality performance management systems contribute to the improvement of service delivery and employee productivity. The literature review undertaken in this study, shows that there is a general poor understanding of performance management systems in Lukhanji municipality. The literature review further establishes that there are several challenges that hinder the effective implementation of a performance management system in the municipality. Other findings of the study include that there is a challenge in setting the unrealistic performance targets which are unrealisable by employees. These are the reasons why productivity levels are not always realised and targets not achieved by Lukhanji municipality. The main findings of the study are that, although performance management systems play a significant role in the improvement of service delivery, it has not contributed in the improvement of employee productivity of the Lukhanji municipality. The main recommendation on the basis of this finding is that there should be thorough and regular training of officials within the Lukhanji Municipality about the performance management system and how it influences productivity and service delivery. In conclusion, the Municipal Executive Mayoral Committee should demand verifiable evidence to justify a higher rating during quarterly assessments, and that punitive disciplinary measures be taken against those who do not comply with the provision of the performance management system framework, particularly failure to submit performance instruments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Boundary demarcation and community identity concerns: an investigation of the Matatiele boundary dispute
- Authors: Tyabazayo, Phumlani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Matatiele , Identity politics -- South Africa -- Matatiele , Matatiele (South Africa) -- Boundaries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8357 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021019
- Description: This treatise explores the Matatiele boundary demarcation dispute and, in particular, the role that unmet basic human needs play in this dispute. The subject of identity is also explored. In 2006, the government of South Africa decided that Matatiele should no longer be part of the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) and instead should be incorporated into the province of the Eastern Cape. This decision divided the community of Matatiele into two groups; one was pro-KZN and the other, pro-Eastern Cape. In 2008, violence broke out between these two groups. The government’s decision and the resulting violence have created a situation of protracted conflict in the community of Matatiele with rivalries and antagonism being part of the fabric of the society. This treatise attempts to analyse this conflict and link it to the theory of basic human needs as advocated by conflict theorists such as John Burton and Johan Gultang. Human needs theorists hold the view that unmet psychological and physical needs are sources of social conflict and can lead to protracted conflict. This treatise also explores the efficacy of problem-solving workshops and referendums as conflict-resolution techniques for boundary demarcation disputes. The data were collected from unstructured, in-depth interviews with a sample of eleven respondents. The data indicate that there is a nexus between this conflict and the theory of basic human needs and that community-identity concerns are central to this dispute. The findings of this study suggest that the conflict is multi-faceted and that the underlying causes can be attributed to unmet human needs. The data was analysed using the grounded theory approach. This allowed the key causes of the conflict to be identified and subsequently informed the recommendations presented in the conclusion of this treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tyabazayo, Phumlani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Matatiele , Identity politics -- South Africa -- Matatiele , Matatiele (South Africa) -- Boundaries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8357 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021019
- Description: This treatise explores the Matatiele boundary demarcation dispute and, in particular, the role that unmet basic human needs play in this dispute. The subject of identity is also explored. In 2006, the government of South Africa decided that Matatiele should no longer be part of the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) and instead should be incorporated into the province of the Eastern Cape. This decision divided the community of Matatiele into two groups; one was pro-KZN and the other, pro-Eastern Cape. In 2008, violence broke out between these two groups. The government’s decision and the resulting violence have created a situation of protracted conflict in the community of Matatiele with rivalries and antagonism being part of the fabric of the society. This treatise attempts to analyse this conflict and link it to the theory of basic human needs as advocated by conflict theorists such as John Burton and Johan Gultang. Human needs theorists hold the view that unmet psychological and physical needs are sources of social conflict and can lead to protracted conflict. This treatise also explores the efficacy of problem-solving workshops and referendums as conflict-resolution techniques for boundary demarcation disputes. The data were collected from unstructured, in-depth interviews with a sample of eleven respondents. The data indicate that there is a nexus between this conflict and the theory of basic human needs and that community-identity concerns are central to this dispute. The findings of this study suggest that the conflict is multi-faceted and that the underlying causes can be attributed to unmet human needs. The data was analysed using the grounded theory approach. This allowed the key causes of the conflict to be identified and subsequently informed the recommendations presented in the conclusion of this treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students' perceptions of television advertisements for four SAB beer brands
- Authors: Tye, Robyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Advertising -- Brewing industry , Advertising -- Alcoholic beverages , Television advertising -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8439 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021122
- Description: This research study aimed to provide the South African beer industry and their advertising representative with insights into 18-28-year-olds’ perceptions of the communicated messaged in beer advertisements. This included the use of social and cultural references to attract their attention and the suggestions made by the advertisements about the consumption of beer in certain contexts. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (NMMU students) perceptions of four South African Breweries beer brands, namely Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label and Hansa Pilsener, in terms of their use of references to social and cultural identity of males and females in South Africa within their television advertisements. The survey questionnaire helped determine what the selected sample’s perceptions were of each advertisement, and whether they fully understood the desired communicated message. It also helped to understand whether each advertisement captured their attention. A semiotic analysis of each advertisement was conducted to deconstruct the advertisements and to determine if they do contain elements of social and cultural identity in an attempt to sell products to their target audiences, or to affect the perceptions of the brand and drinking beer in general. This was achieved by examining the signs and imagery in each advertisement, looking specifically at the representamen, interpretant and object using Pierce’s model of a sign. , Hierdie navorsingstudie is daarop gemik om die Suid-Afrikaanse bierbedryf en sy adverteerders ‘n beter begrip te gee van verbruikers tussen die ouderdomme van 18-28, se waarnemings van die boodskappe in bieradvertensies. Dit sluit in die gebruik van sosiale en kulturele verwysings, wat veronderstel is om die verbruikers se aandag te trek, asook die suggesties wat deur die advertensies gemaak word met betrekking tot die verbruik van bier in ‘n bepaalde konteks. Die studie moes ook die gekose monster (“selected sample”), nl. die NMMU-student se persepsies bepaal van vier handelsname van die South African Breweries, naamlik Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label en Hansa Pilsener, en in watter mate daar in bieradvertensies oor die televisie verwys word na die sosiale en kulturele identiteit van Suid-Afrikaanse mans en vroue. Die meningspeiling het die groep se waarnemings van elke advertensie, asook of die boodskap wat gekommunikeer is ten volle verstaan word, ondersoek. Die vraelys kon ook vasstel of die advertensies hulle aandag getrek het. ‘n Semiotiese ontleding van elke advertensie is gedoen, om die advertensies te dekodeer en sodoende vas te stel of die adverteerders elemente van sosiale en kulturele identiteit gebruik het om hul produkte aan die teikenmarkte te verkoop, of om die idees rondom die handelsnaam en bier oor die algemeen te beïnvloed. Aan die hand van Peirce se semiotiese model is die tekens en beelde in elke advertensie bestudeer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tye, Robyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Advertising -- Brewing industry , Advertising -- Alcoholic beverages , Television advertising -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8439 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021122
- Description: This research study aimed to provide the South African beer industry and their advertising representative with insights into 18-28-year-olds’ perceptions of the communicated messaged in beer advertisements. This included the use of social and cultural references to attract their attention and the suggestions made by the advertisements about the consumption of beer in certain contexts. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (NMMU students) perceptions of four South African Breweries beer brands, namely Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label and Hansa Pilsener, in terms of their use of references to social and cultural identity of males and females in South Africa within their television advertisements. The survey questionnaire helped determine what the selected sample’s perceptions were of each advertisement, and whether they fully understood the desired communicated message. It also helped to understand whether each advertisement captured their attention. A semiotic analysis of each advertisement was conducted to deconstruct the advertisements and to determine if they do contain elements of social and cultural identity in an attempt to sell products to their target audiences, or to affect the perceptions of the brand and drinking beer in general. This was achieved by examining the signs and imagery in each advertisement, looking specifically at the representamen, interpretant and object using Pierce’s model of a sign. , Hierdie navorsingstudie is daarop gemik om die Suid-Afrikaanse bierbedryf en sy adverteerders ‘n beter begrip te gee van verbruikers tussen die ouderdomme van 18-28, se waarnemings van die boodskappe in bieradvertensies. Dit sluit in die gebruik van sosiale en kulturele verwysings, wat veronderstel is om die verbruikers se aandag te trek, asook die suggesties wat deur die advertensies gemaak word met betrekking tot die verbruik van bier in ‘n bepaalde konteks. Die studie moes ook die gekose monster (“selected sample”), nl. die NMMU-student se persepsies bepaal van vier handelsname van die South African Breweries, naamlik Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label en Hansa Pilsener, en in watter mate daar in bieradvertensies oor die televisie verwys word na die sosiale en kulturele identiteit van Suid-Afrikaanse mans en vroue. Die meningspeiling het die groep se waarnemings van elke advertensie, asook of die boodskap wat gekommunikeer is ten volle verstaan word, ondersoek. Die vraelys kon ook vasstel of die advertensies hulle aandag getrek het. ‘n Semiotiese ontleding van elke advertensie is gedoen, om die advertensies te dekodeer en sodoende vas te stel of die adverteerders elemente van sosiale en kulturele identiteit gebruik het om hul produkte aan die teikenmarkte te verkoop, of om die idees rondom die handelsnaam en bier oor die algemeen te beïnvloed. Aan die hand van Peirce se semiotiese model is die tekens en beelde in elke advertensie bestudeer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An exploration of the practice of public relations in selected schools within Uitenhage area
- Authors: Woods, Sharne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Schools--Public relations--South Africa--Uitenhage , Community and school--South Africa--Uitenhage , School management and organization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8486 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007954 , Schools--Public relations--South Africa--Uitenhage , Community and school--South Africa--Uitenhage , School management and organization
- Description: This treatise provides an overview of the American style of school public relations and suggests the possibilities for the positive impact such a treatise could have within the South African educational realm. Three models of school PR are proposed in this treatise in view of the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all kind of approach to school public relations. Schools differ in size either physically or financially, and these differences can have an impact on the extent to which public relations would be practised. Thus each model is described according to the practise of a minimum, standard and an advanced school PR plan. These models strive to provide either a starting point for implementing a PR plan; or a checklist for schools who already practise some form of PR. The nature and scope of public relations is explored within three selected South African public schools in Uitenhage to establish the extent to which the Modern Age of School Public Relations has “arrived”. Based on the research findings it can be deduced that most schools practise some form of PR, whether strategically planned or spontaneously, as the need arises. However, although it is apparent that the Modern Age of school public relations is being set in motion, it must be expanded on and progressed to incorporate all the facets of a proactive systematic PR plan. The content of this research paper details a step-by-step approach for South African schools to start a planned public relations programme. Furthermore taking into account current trends it proposes ideas to involve learners, staff and parents in the planning and implementation of strategic public relations in an attempt to achieve the school’s objectives and validate its vision. This treatise aims to provide a foundation for exploring the current practise of public relations within the educational environment and could stimulate further study by investigating and evaluating the PR of all class ranks of South African schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Woods, Sharne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Schools--Public relations--South Africa--Uitenhage , Community and school--South Africa--Uitenhage , School management and organization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8486 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007954 , Schools--Public relations--South Africa--Uitenhage , Community and school--South Africa--Uitenhage , School management and organization
- Description: This treatise provides an overview of the American style of school public relations and suggests the possibilities for the positive impact such a treatise could have within the South African educational realm. Three models of school PR are proposed in this treatise in view of the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all kind of approach to school public relations. Schools differ in size either physically or financially, and these differences can have an impact on the extent to which public relations would be practised. Thus each model is described according to the practise of a minimum, standard and an advanced school PR plan. These models strive to provide either a starting point for implementing a PR plan; or a checklist for schools who already practise some form of PR. The nature and scope of public relations is explored within three selected South African public schools in Uitenhage to establish the extent to which the Modern Age of School Public Relations has “arrived”. Based on the research findings it can be deduced that most schools practise some form of PR, whether strategically planned or spontaneously, as the need arises. However, although it is apparent that the Modern Age of school public relations is being set in motion, it must be expanded on and progressed to incorporate all the facets of a proactive systematic PR plan. The content of this research paper details a step-by-step approach for South African schools to start a planned public relations programme. Furthermore taking into account current trends it proposes ideas to involve learners, staff and parents in the planning and implementation of strategic public relations in an attempt to achieve the school’s objectives and validate its vision. This treatise aims to provide a foundation for exploring the current practise of public relations within the educational environment and could stimulate further study by investigating and evaluating the PR of all class ranks of South African schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing financial accountability in the acquisition of goods and services : the case of the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Safety and Liaison
- Authors: Ndaleni, Phumla
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Finance, Public , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8342 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020657
- Description: Supply Chain Management is an aspect of the procurement process which focuses on addressing the needs of both the service provider and the end user. It has a constitutional status which enables it to contribute towards addressing past discriminatory practices. It assists in correcting the imbalances of the past in the procurement of goods and services for government. Section 217(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) specifies that procurement must be fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost effective. Accountability is the most critical element in improving financial management in the public sector. The objective of the study was to highlight the need for accountability in Public Finance Management. Additionally, it was intended to assess the respective roles of the various processes involved in the acquisition of goods and services with the goal of enhancing accountability in the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison in Bhisho. The study was conducted at the Head Office of the Supply Chain Management Section and the district offices with officials who are responsible for the procurement of goods and services. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, a survey was conducted using the qualitative method to ensure greater understanding and reliability. Convenience sampling was applied as it allowed the researcher to select the sample that was convenient. Moreover, it made it easier to reach the available participants. Data was gathered by means of face-to-face interviews for the Head Office respondents and telephonic interviews for the respondents of the district offices. The study concluded with recommendations emanating from the research findings that are meant to assist in improving accountability in Supply Chain Management within the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ndaleni, Phumla
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Finance, Public , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8342 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020657
- Description: Supply Chain Management is an aspect of the procurement process which focuses on addressing the needs of both the service provider and the end user. It has a constitutional status which enables it to contribute towards addressing past discriminatory practices. It assists in correcting the imbalances of the past in the procurement of goods and services for government. Section 217(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) specifies that procurement must be fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost effective. Accountability is the most critical element in improving financial management in the public sector. The objective of the study was to highlight the need for accountability in Public Finance Management. Additionally, it was intended to assess the respective roles of the various processes involved in the acquisition of goods and services with the goal of enhancing accountability in the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison in Bhisho. The study was conducted at the Head Office of the Supply Chain Management Section and the district offices with officials who are responsible for the procurement of goods and services. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, a survey was conducted using the qualitative method to ensure greater understanding and reliability. Convenience sampling was applied as it allowed the researcher to select the sample that was convenient. Moreover, it made it easier to reach the available participants. Data was gathered by means of face-to-face interviews for the Head Office respondents and telephonic interviews for the respondents of the district offices. The study concluded with recommendations emanating from the research findings that are meant to assist in improving accountability in Supply Chain Management within the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The representation of the use of social media for committing cyber-crimes in selected South African newspapers
- Authors: Hewana, Sandiswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer crimes , Crime in mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6323 , vital:21073
- Description: This study aimed to provide insights into the manner in which the representation of social media usage in relation to cyber-related crimes within selected South African newspapers can potentially shape the ideas and perceptions that society may have towards social networking channels. Drawing on the literature from fields such as developmental studies, new media studies, identity formation and cyber-criminality, an analysis of the Price Water House Coopers Global Economic Survey (2011) was used to provide some insight into the issue of cyber-crime within South Africa. The survey which was conducted by Price Water House Coopers revealed that South Africa is ranked second in the world with the highest rate of reported fraud cases. According to them this rate is comparatively higher than the escalating percentage of cases reported in the United States and other nations. In order to correlate and illustrate some of the findings of the survey and that which was found through primary research, an in-depth content analysis applying limited designations analysis and detailed assertions analysis techniques (Du Plooy, 2007) has been performed on selected content from local print and online publications such as The Herald, Algoa Sun, The Weekend Post, The Sunday Times and News24, from the time period of January 2009 until January 2012. Herewith, a total of 125 articles were analysed in order to determine the tone and thematic nature of the communication within the respective platforms. Furthermore, the mass media has been argued as being the main platform of communication within society. Whereby, different communication techniques are used to communicate with different target audiences. On a theoretical level, the study explored whether or not social media perpetuates the prejudices of the modernisation theory or serves to challenge such prejudices. Furthermore, the study explored whether social media may potentially have an impact on the reported cyber-related crimes. Associated theory such as the representation theory, globalization, the privacy trust model, social contract theory, media richness theory, participatory theory, convergence, the digital divide, media-centricity, dependency and identity formation has been explored. It was found that social networking sites Facebook and Mxit have been represented as the most common platforms of cyber-related crime and women and teenagers are the most popular victims. The likelihood of individuals being exposed to cyber-crime within social networks is high due to the fact in order to develop online relationships, personal information needs to be shared. The Privacy Trust model was identified as being an important factor which shaped the findings of this study. This is due to the fact that a certain level of trust is held by social network subscribers to the Internet hosts who they entered into a social contract with and with their friends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Hewana, Sandiswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer crimes , Crime in mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6323 , vital:21073
- Description: This study aimed to provide insights into the manner in which the representation of social media usage in relation to cyber-related crimes within selected South African newspapers can potentially shape the ideas and perceptions that society may have towards social networking channels. Drawing on the literature from fields such as developmental studies, new media studies, identity formation and cyber-criminality, an analysis of the Price Water House Coopers Global Economic Survey (2011) was used to provide some insight into the issue of cyber-crime within South Africa. The survey which was conducted by Price Water House Coopers revealed that South Africa is ranked second in the world with the highest rate of reported fraud cases. According to them this rate is comparatively higher than the escalating percentage of cases reported in the United States and other nations. In order to correlate and illustrate some of the findings of the survey and that which was found through primary research, an in-depth content analysis applying limited designations analysis and detailed assertions analysis techniques (Du Plooy, 2007) has been performed on selected content from local print and online publications such as The Herald, Algoa Sun, The Weekend Post, The Sunday Times and News24, from the time period of January 2009 until January 2012. Herewith, a total of 125 articles were analysed in order to determine the tone and thematic nature of the communication within the respective platforms. Furthermore, the mass media has been argued as being the main platform of communication within society. Whereby, different communication techniques are used to communicate with different target audiences. On a theoretical level, the study explored whether or not social media perpetuates the prejudices of the modernisation theory or serves to challenge such prejudices. Furthermore, the study explored whether social media may potentially have an impact on the reported cyber-related crimes. Associated theory such as the representation theory, globalization, the privacy trust model, social contract theory, media richness theory, participatory theory, convergence, the digital divide, media-centricity, dependency and identity formation has been explored. It was found that social networking sites Facebook and Mxit have been represented as the most common platforms of cyber-related crime and women and teenagers are the most popular victims. The likelihood of individuals being exposed to cyber-crime within social networks is high due to the fact in order to develop online relationships, personal information needs to be shared. The Privacy Trust model was identified as being an important factor which shaped the findings of this study. This is due to the fact that a certain level of trust is held by social network subscribers to the Internet hosts who they entered into a social contract with and with their friends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gender equality in the employment of senior secondary schools managers in the district of Butterworth
- Authors: Bikitsha, Sakhiwo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational equalization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020005
- Description: In terms of Section 9 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, Chapter Two, the Bill of Rights, there should be gender equality amongst other things. In terms of Section15 (i) of the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998), there should be equal representation of suitably qualified people from the designated groups (blacks, women and people with disabilities) in all occupational categories and levels in the workforce. Section 15 (ii)provides that an employer who employs more than 50 employees must conduct a gender audit and make a gender equity plan and implement it when new employees are employed. In the Department of Education in the District of Butterworth, there is no gender equality in the number of senior secondary school managers. Men constituted 65 percent and women constituted 35 percent. The study investigated reasons for unequal representation of men and women as senior secondary school managers. The study was qualitative in design. The participants in the study were the Assistant Director of the Human Resource Section of the Department of Education and school governing body members, who were parents and educators. Interviews were used to collect data from the participants The study found that, amongst other things, gender equity was not considered when senior secondary schools managers were employed. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions. This implied that those involved in the employment of secondary school managers in the district of Butterworth did not consider the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998) as a guide when employing senior secondary school managers in order to be able to achieve gender equality in this position. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bikitsha, Sakhiwo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational equalization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020005
- Description: In terms of Section 9 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, Chapter Two, the Bill of Rights, there should be gender equality amongst other things. In terms of Section15 (i) of the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998), there should be equal representation of suitably qualified people from the designated groups (blacks, women and people with disabilities) in all occupational categories and levels in the workforce. Section 15 (ii)provides that an employer who employs more than 50 employees must conduct a gender audit and make a gender equity plan and implement it when new employees are employed. In the Department of Education in the District of Butterworth, there is no gender equality in the number of senior secondary school managers. Men constituted 65 percent and women constituted 35 percent. The study investigated reasons for unequal representation of men and women as senior secondary school managers. The study was qualitative in design. The participants in the study were the Assistant Director of the Human Resource Section of the Department of Education and school governing body members, who were parents and educators. Interviews were used to collect data from the participants The study found that, amongst other things, gender equity was not considered when senior secondary schools managers were employed. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions. This implied that those involved in the employment of secondary school managers in the district of Butterworth did not consider the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998) as a guide when employing senior secondary school managers in order to be able to achieve gender equality in this position. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Perceptions of students regarding the information literacy programme: a case study of Walter Sisulu University
- Authors: Badi, Mzwanele
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information literacy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8311 , http://hdl/handle.net/10948/d1020080
- Description: Information literacy is universally considered one of effective means through which one’s information skills are developed, more especially at higher education Institutions. It has been part of the WSU library’s tradition to promote and offer units of Information Literacy instruction to all students at WSU, although it was initially on ad-hoc bases until 2010 when the Faculty of Education introduced it as a module or a program as a credit-bearing subject to all first year level Bachelor of Education students. The study is intended to understand the perceptions of students that are currently enrolled in Bachelor of Education Degree level one regarding the Information Literacy Program at Walter Sisulu University. The Information Literacy Program is offered in two campuses of WSU, that is Mthatha and Butterworth campuses. This study was conducted using first year level B. Ed students in Butterworth campus only. This may be regarded as a limitation of the study. The study is largely informed by a literature review of scholarly journal articles, books, internet sources and academic libraries in South Africa. The study applied quantitative method using semi-structured questionnaires as the main data gathering instrument. The sample was drawn from 80 first year B Ed students. A total of 80 questionnaires were distributed and 65 were received back. In the study the significant changes in the higher education in the post-apartheid South Africa are discussed. The historical evolution of information literacy as a course in South Africa and internationally is also discussed. The study reveals that information literacy has contributed positively to students’ study approaches. It has helped the students to learn how to apply computing and internet skills to improve on their studies. More importantly, the study reveals that information literacy has helped the students to learn different ways to search for and use information for the purpose of working on their assignments and enhancing their knowledge generally. Furthermore, the study reveals that it has helped the students to know how to tailor their search for information using specific databases such as OPAC, PROQUEST, EBSCOHOST, and SABINET etc.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Badi, Mzwanele
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information literacy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8311 , http://hdl/handle.net/10948/d1020080
- Description: Information literacy is universally considered one of effective means through which one’s information skills are developed, more especially at higher education Institutions. It has been part of the WSU library’s tradition to promote and offer units of Information Literacy instruction to all students at WSU, although it was initially on ad-hoc bases until 2010 when the Faculty of Education introduced it as a module or a program as a credit-bearing subject to all first year level Bachelor of Education students. The study is intended to understand the perceptions of students that are currently enrolled in Bachelor of Education Degree level one regarding the Information Literacy Program at Walter Sisulu University. The Information Literacy Program is offered in two campuses of WSU, that is Mthatha and Butterworth campuses. This study was conducted using first year level B. Ed students in Butterworth campus only. This may be regarded as a limitation of the study. The study is largely informed by a literature review of scholarly journal articles, books, internet sources and academic libraries in South Africa. The study applied quantitative method using semi-structured questionnaires as the main data gathering instrument. The sample was drawn from 80 first year B Ed students. A total of 80 questionnaires were distributed and 65 were received back. In the study the significant changes in the higher education in the post-apartheid South Africa are discussed. The historical evolution of information literacy as a course in South Africa and internationally is also discussed. The study reveals that information literacy has contributed positively to students’ study approaches. It has helped the students to learn how to apply computing and internet skills to improve on their studies. More importantly, the study reveals that information literacy has helped the students to learn different ways to search for and use information for the purpose of working on their assignments and enhancing their knowledge generally. Furthermore, the study reveals that it has helped the students to know how to tailor their search for information using specific databases such as OPAC, PROQUEST, EBSCOHOST, and SABINET etc.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Rural women's representation and participation in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland central provinces of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Kurebwa, Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- Women -- Zimbabwe , Public administration -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020085
- Description: This study focused on the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland Central provinces of Zimbabwe. It argued that increased representation and participation of women in local governance, particularly as ward councillors and senior administrative employees, is important and should be pursued. This has the potential to change the local governance system. The research further argued that change is more likely to occur when elected women are supported by the presence of more women at the most senior administrative levels in the local governance system. The presence of more women is required if the local governance system is to become inclusive of the diversity of the people it represents, especially women. This study rejected the assumption that rural women are passive recipients of local governance since they contribute significantly in fulfilling household and community needs and interests. Through their knowledge and understanding of the construction of power relations at the local level, rural women have creatively managed to produce, reproduce and use alternative strategies which are based on their sexuality and traditional gender roles in challenging and transforming gender inequality at the local level and in improving the quality of rural women. A National Gender Management System (NGMS) that can be used to effectively promote gender equity, equality and justice in local authorities has been developed. It is desirable that the NGMS be established within the existing organisational framework of central and local governments in Zimbabwe. This should be connected to the national structures to ensure that local level activities are systematically accounted for at the national level. The NGMS recognises the strategic importance of building partnerships with social actors at all levels. Qualitative research method was used in the study. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the two selected provinces in Zimbabwe, namely Masvingo and Mashonaland Central. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires, while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, and peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that rural women face a number of constraints in getting access to and participating in local governance. Some of the constraints include; cultural beliefs; violence against women; lack of resources; lack of mutual support among women; domestic responsibilities; and institutional factors. The contributions of the research to the study of women in local governance are discussed. Recommendations to increase the participation of women in local governance are made. These include creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment, gender-responsive budgets, capacity-building programmes, establishment of gender focal points, gender management committees and teams, increasing women’s self-worth and changing perceptions by men. The study also found that decentralisation in Zimbabwe has not brought local governance closer to rural women due to the interweaving cultural, structural, physical and financial barriers local government faces in ensuring gender equality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kurebwa, Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- Women -- Zimbabwe , Public administration -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020085
- Description: This study focused on the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland Central provinces of Zimbabwe. It argued that increased representation and participation of women in local governance, particularly as ward councillors and senior administrative employees, is important and should be pursued. This has the potential to change the local governance system. The research further argued that change is more likely to occur when elected women are supported by the presence of more women at the most senior administrative levels in the local governance system. The presence of more women is required if the local governance system is to become inclusive of the diversity of the people it represents, especially women. This study rejected the assumption that rural women are passive recipients of local governance since they contribute significantly in fulfilling household and community needs and interests. Through their knowledge and understanding of the construction of power relations at the local level, rural women have creatively managed to produce, reproduce and use alternative strategies which are based on their sexuality and traditional gender roles in challenging and transforming gender inequality at the local level and in improving the quality of rural women. A National Gender Management System (NGMS) that can be used to effectively promote gender equity, equality and justice in local authorities has been developed. It is desirable that the NGMS be established within the existing organisational framework of central and local governments in Zimbabwe. This should be connected to the national structures to ensure that local level activities are systematically accounted for at the national level. The NGMS recognises the strategic importance of building partnerships with social actors at all levels. Qualitative research method was used in the study. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the two selected provinces in Zimbabwe, namely Masvingo and Mashonaland Central. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires, while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, and peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that rural women face a number of constraints in getting access to and participating in local governance. Some of the constraints include; cultural beliefs; violence against women; lack of resources; lack of mutual support among women; domestic responsibilities; and institutional factors. The contributions of the research to the study of women in local governance are discussed. Recommendations to increase the participation of women in local governance are made. These include creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment, gender-responsive budgets, capacity-building programmes, establishment of gender focal points, gender management committees and teams, increasing women’s self-worth and changing perceptions by men. The study also found that decentralisation in Zimbabwe has not brought local governance closer to rural women due to the interweaving cultural, structural, physical and financial barriers local government faces in ensuring gender equality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Investigating modernisation in Iran in relation to the changing fifth news filter of Herman and Chomsky's 'Propaganda Model'
- Authors: Godfrey, Lianne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social change -- Iran , Propaganda, Anti-communist -- Iran
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020828
- Description: The focus of this dissertation falls on the transformation of the fifth news filter of the propaganda model identified by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky in their Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media. This transformation entails a shift from an anti-communist orientation, to an anti-Islamic orientation, and while this shift has been alluded to by several theorists, in what follows it will be dealt with more systematically. In this regard, it will be traced from its roots, in the tension between modernisation theory – as espoused by figures such as Daniel Lerner – and the anti-modernisation theory of Iranian scholars such as Ahmad Fardid, Jalal al-e Ahmad and Ali Shari’ati. Following this, the development of the anti-Islamic orientation of the fifth news filter, in the wake of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, and the ensuing Iranian hostage crisis, will be explored. This will be done as a precursor to examining the continued reflection of the related tropes and stereotypes in US mainstream film, with particular focus falling on Ben Affleck’s Argo (2012). Finally, this dissertation will conclude with a consideration of the possible effects of such representations on the tensions between the US and Iran over the latter’s nuclear ambitions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Godfrey, Lianne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social change -- Iran , Propaganda, Anti-communist -- Iran
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020828
- Description: The focus of this dissertation falls on the transformation of the fifth news filter of the propaganda model identified by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky in their Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media. This transformation entails a shift from an anti-communist orientation, to an anti-Islamic orientation, and while this shift has been alluded to by several theorists, in what follows it will be dealt with more systematically. In this regard, it will be traced from its roots, in the tension between modernisation theory – as espoused by figures such as Daniel Lerner – and the anti-modernisation theory of Iranian scholars such as Ahmad Fardid, Jalal al-e Ahmad and Ali Shari’ati. Following this, the development of the anti-Islamic orientation of the fifth news filter, in the wake of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, and the ensuing Iranian hostage crisis, will be explored. This will be done as a precursor to examining the continued reflection of the related tropes and stereotypes in US mainstream film, with particular focus falling on Ben Affleck’s Argo (2012). Finally, this dissertation will conclude with a consideration of the possible effects of such representations on the tensions between the US and Iran over the latter’s nuclear ambitions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Expropriation of mineral resourses and the implications for conflict transformation in the Democratic Republic of Congo
- Authors: Nibishaka, Emmanuel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Postwar reconstruction -- Congo (Democratic Republic) , Minerals -- Congo (Democratic Republic)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8294 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018880
- Description: The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced constant instability and conflict since 1996. With the collapse of the state of Zaire and the renaming of the country by the late Laurent Desire Kabila in late 1996, there were high expectations from the Congolese population that the country was going to move forward. However, in less than two years, the central government in Kinshasa was facing a new rebellion from the east of the country, followed by widespread violence and criminal activities by armed and militia groups. Although military intervention from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola halted the rebellion march to Kinshasa, the capital city of DRC, and allowed the DRC government to sign peace agreement with its opponents in 2002; since then, the prospect of peace in the eastern DRC, especially the North and South Kivus seems bleak. Since 2002, that region has been the theatre of armed and militia groups (both local and foreign), owing to, in the views of various experts, the presence of mineral resources to support their criminal activities, as well as the economic interests of regional actors to create proxy militia and armed groups in the absence of central government in much of eastern DRC. The purpose and rationale of this study is to critically identify actors in the postconflict reconstruction process, and examine the role of mineral resources among other perpetuating factors of the protracted conflict in eastern DRC, in order to arrive at a comprehensive analysis of the reasons for the failure of peace building and post-conflict reconstruction processes that have been undertaken. This study aims to fill a gap in available literature, by pointing to some conflict drivers and factors which have previously been overlooked in post-conflict reconstruction, and in existing research on the topic, especially the role of mineral resources in sustaining conflict. A thorough conceptualization of relevant conflict theory and a historical overview of the conflict in DRC were provided as a point of departure in order to understand other factors that contribute to the intractability of conflict in eastern DRC, this study found that those factors were rooted in the legacy of colonialism; the bad leadership under both the colonial powers and subsequent government of Joseph Mobutu, manipulation and politicization of ethnic identities especially in the South and North Kivu and the geopolitical location of the eastern DRC. This study further established that the presence of mineral resources in eastern DRC indeed contributes to the continued insecurity in that region by providing succour to armed groups, thus undermining peace agreements especially the Pretoria agreement that formally ended hostilities in 2002. Furthermore, the study found that the issue of mineral resources is not the sole driver of the eastern DRC conflict, as the issues of ethnic polarisation especially, discrimination against Kinyarwanda speaking Congolese in the east, and the view that only military means can solve this problem; coupled with other security threats including the presence of foreign militia groups motivate the neighbouring countries of Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi to constantly meddle in DRC's internal affairs. The study suggests that additional research be conducted to further investigate the regional dimensions of the conflict and how perceived interests in mineral revenue contribute to the polarisation of the population in eastern DRC; leading to the proliferation of armed groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nibishaka, Emmanuel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Postwar reconstruction -- Congo (Democratic Republic) , Minerals -- Congo (Democratic Republic)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8294 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018880
- Description: The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced constant instability and conflict since 1996. With the collapse of the state of Zaire and the renaming of the country by the late Laurent Desire Kabila in late 1996, there were high expectations from the Congolese population that the country was going to move forward. However, in less than two years, the central government in Kinshasa was facing a new rebellion from the east of the country, followed by widespread violence and criminal activities by armed and militia groups. Although military intervention from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola halted the rebellion march to Kinshasa, the capital city of DRC, and allowed the DRC government to sign peace agreement with its opponents in 2002; since then, the prospect of peace in the eastern DRC, especially the North and South Kivus seems bleak. Since 2002, that region has been the theatre of armed and militia groups (both local and foreign), owing to, in the views of various experts, the presence of mineral resources to support their criminal activities, as well as the economic interests of regional actors to create proxy militia and armed groups in the absence of central government in much of eastern DRC. The purpose and rationale of this study is to critically identify actors in the postconflict reconstruction process, and examine the role of mineral resources among other perpetuating factors of the protracted conflict in eastern DRC, in order to arrive at a comprehensive analysis of the reasons for the failure of peace building and post-conflict reconstruction processes that have been undertaken. This study aims to fill a gap in available literature, by pointing to some conflict drivers and factors which have previously been overlooked in post-conflict reconstruction, and in existing research on the topic, especially the role of mineral resources in sustaining conflict. A thorough conceptualization of relevant conflict theory and a historical overview of the conflict in DRC were provided as a point of departure in order to understand other factors that contribute to the intractability of conflict in eastern DRC, this study found that those factors were rooted in the legacy of colonialism; the bad leadership under both the colonial powers and subsequent government of Joseph Mobutu, manipulation and politicization of ethnic identities especially in the South and North Kivu and the geopolitical location of the eastern DRC. This study further established that the presence of mineral resources in eastern DRC indeed contributes to the continued insecurity in that region by providing succour to armed groups, thus undermining peace agreements especially the Pretoria agreement that formally ended hostilities in 2002. Furthermore, the study found that the issue of mineral resources is not the sole driver of the eastern DRC conflict, as the issues of ethnic polarisation especially, discrimination against Kinyarwanda speaking Congolese in the east, and the view that only military means can solve this problem; coupled with other security threats including the presence of foreign militia groups motivate the neighbouring countries of Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi to constantly meddle in DRC's internal affairs. The study suggests that additional research be conducted to further investigate the regional dimensions of the conflict and how perceived interests in mineral revenue contribute to the polarisation of the population in eastern DRC; leading to the proliferation of armed groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Places to look for m/other-heterodox discourse on gender among contemporary chinese women: a cross-cultural feminist approach
- Authors: Lotter, Casper
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women's studies -- China , Popular culture -- China , Sex role -- China
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:16153 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020099
- Description: This study proceeds on the assumption that maternal discourse in the West, according to Kristeva, is repressed, which has resulted in the serious fracture of the mother-daughter relationship and seeks to isolate a restorative model in contemporary Chinese culture. Chapter One explores the feminist claim that this fractured relationship is the result of patriarchal oppressions (and the cause of twice as many women than men suffering depression) and attempts to reconcile feminist psychology with Kristeva‟s thesis that abjection per se is the cause of widespread depression among women. The next chapter delineates the features of a cross-cultural feminist analysis, which includes exploring notions of Foucaultian and Lacanian discourse, by situating gender as a tool within the context of feminist and postcolonial perspectives. An argument is made that cinema is a privileged site to cull material from which to probe discourses on m/other and the thesis of a sunken maternal metaphor across all cinematic genres is demonstrated. Contemporary Chinese culture is scrutinized for possibly curative discourses and Bourdieu‟s idea of „rebel‟ and „orthodox‟ discourse models is employed to this end. After finding dominant discourse on gender in contemporary Chinese societies unsatisfactory for this purpose, I examine three contemporary Chinese films, with Gong Li as the female lead, in which I unearth two rebel discourses on m/otherhood. I argue that men and boys need to be encouraged to develop their aptitude and skills to nurture and care. This will allow women much needed space and time to come to terms with themselves and their own needs. In short, women and especially m/others, worn-out from guilt and expectations, are desperate for nurturance themselves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Lotter, Casper
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women's studies -- China , Popular culture -- China , Sex role -- China
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:16153 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020099
- Description: This study proceeds on the assumption that maternal discourse in the West, according to Kristeva, is repressed, which has resulted in the serious fracture of the mother-daughter relationship and seeks to isolate a restorative model in contemporary Chinese culture. Chapter One explores the feminist claim that this fractured relationship is the result of patriarchal oppressions (and the cause of twice as many women than men suffering depression) and attempts to reconcile feminist psychology with Kristeva‟s thesis that abjection per se is the cause of widespread depression among women. The next chapter delineates the features of a cross-cultural feminist analysis, which includes exploring notions of Foucaultian and Lacanian discourse, by situating gender as a tool within the context of feminist and postcolonial perspectives. An argument is made that cinema is a privileged site to cull material from which to probe discourses on m/other and the thesis of a sunken maternal metaphor across all cinematic genres is demonstrated. Contemporary Chinese culture is scrutinized for possibly curative discourses and Bourdieu‟s idea of „rebel‟ and „orthodox‟ discourse models is employed to this end. After finding dominant discourse on gender in contemporary Chinese societies unsatisfactory for this purpose, I examine three contemporary Chinese films, with Gong Li as the female lead, in which I unearth two rebel discourses on m/otherhood. I argue that men and boys need to be encouraged to develop their aptitude and skills to nurture and care. This will allow women much needed space and time to come to terms with themselves and their own needs. In short, women and especially m/others, worn-out from guilt and expectations, are desperate for nurturance themselves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Investigating the relationship between discipline and student performance in the schools of Kwanobuhle township: 'The discipline factor'
- Authors: Vaaltein, Lawana David
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020035
- Description: Indiscipline in schools has been so pervasive that in many instances, learning and teaching have become difficult, if not impossible. There are so many reports of indiscipline in schools that school authorities are continuously trying to find solutions to this catastrophic phenomenon. It is believed that the lack of discipline in schools is a major contributing factor to the failure rate and poor performance of learners. The purpose of the study is to investigate whether indiscipline in township schools has a negative impact on the performance of learners in those schools. There are reports that there is an unacceptable and ruinous level of indiscipline therein. The targeted participants in the research are principals and educators from five senior secondary schools of KwaNobuhle Township, Uitenhage. The participants were purposely selected because of their many years of teaching experience and working with learners. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to collect data from participants. Data collection instruments consisted of interviews done with participants and questionnaires filled in by the aforementioned stakeholders. This evidence showed that there are many learning and teaching hours lost due to direct indiscipline and dealing with discipline. This subsequently renders learning and teaching ineffective. It is obvious that, once teaching and learning is ineffective, this will, definitely result in the poor performance of learners and high rate of failure. The study recommends that serious and urgent steps must be taken to minimize or eradicate the menace of indiscipline in these schools as soon as possible. Indiscipline cannot be ignored or taken lightly because there are already so many other structural misfortunes in the education system that are stumbling blocks to the academic achievements of township learners, namely, socio-economic conditions, crime, drugs, alcohol and unemployment. As long as discipline is a problem in the township schools, learners will perpetuate to perform poorly and the failure rate in these schools will rise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Vaaltein, Lawana David
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020035
- Description: Indiscipline in schools has been so pervasive that in many instances, learning and teaching have become difficult, if not impossible. There are so many reports of indiscipline in schools that school authorities are continuously trying to find solutions to this catastrophic phenomenon. It is believed that the lack of discipline in schools is a major contributing factor to the failure rate and poor performance of learners. The purpose of the study is to investigate whether indiscipline in township schools has a negative impact on the performance of learners in those schools. There are reports that there is an unacceptable and ruinous level of indiscipline therein. The targeted participants in the research are principals and educators from five senior secondary schools of KwaNobuhle Township, Uitenhage. The participants were purposely selected because of their many years of teaching experience and working with learners. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to collect data from participants. Data collection instruments consisted of interviews done with participants and questionnaires filled in by the aforementioned stakeholders. This evidence showed that there are many learning and teaching hours lost due to direct indiscipline and dealing with discipline. This subsequently renders learning and teaching ineffective. It is obvious that, once teaching and learning is ineffective, this will, definitely result in the poor performance of learners and high rate of failure. The study recommends that serious and urgent steps must be taken to minimize or eradicate the menace of indiscipline in these schools as soon as possible. Indiscipline cannot be ignored or taken lightly because there are already so many other structural misfortunes in the education system that are stumbling blocks to the academic achievements of township learners, namely, socio-economic conditions, crime, drugs, alcohol and unemployment. As long as discipline is a problem in the township schools, learners will perpetuate to perform poorly and the failure rate in these schools will rise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Mentoring for best educational practice : a generic framework for whole school transformation within dysfunctional senior secondary schools, South Africa
- Authors: Mohamed, Gishma
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Education -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Low-performing schools -- South Africa , Social change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020347
- Description: During transformation (1994 onwards), different interventions were instituted within Education as an attempt to redress learner achievement and throughput. By so doing, the South African government believed that by investing in education a return would be attained which would be beneficial to stabilising its economy — nationally and internationally. However, expected outcomes of these interventions have not been achieved and various researchers and opinion leaders still view the quality of education in South Africa as disparaging and deficient as well as characterised by an increasing prevalence of dysfunctional schooling systems. Therefore, this research aimed to design a generic mentoring framework through which transformation within dysfunctional schooling systems can be facilitated; this is to enable whole school development to achieve best educational practice. In order to achieve this, a micro-level analysis of schooling systems, using the functionalist perspective, specifically enabled through the contributions of Parsons and Merton was undertaken. In addition, insight gained from a broad range of literature and other secondary resources on mentoring, best practice and quality education was used to develop a number of premises. These premises were used to suggest how the generic mentoring framework can be adapted to enable a fit-for-purpose mentoring system which allows facilitation of a process of sustained transformation which gravitates towards a whole school culture that envisions quality education for all. It is recommended that further research be undertaken to ascertain the strength of the generic mentoring framework and operationalising it as a fit-for-purpose mentoring system within a school in the form of a pilot study. Aligned with this, to undertake assessment research, amongst other things, to systematically and with greater depth explore the notions of intended and unintended consequences that manifest during operationalisation of a fit-for-purpose mentoring system and how these can and should be measured.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mohamed, Gishma
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Education -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Low-performing schools -- South Africa , Social change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020347
- Description: During transformation (1994 onwards), different interventions were instituted within Education as an attempt to redress learner achievement and throughput. By so doing, the South African government believed that by investing in education a return would be attained which would be beneficial to stabilising its economy — nationally and internationally. However, expected outcomes of these interventions have not been achieved and various researchers and opinion leaders still view the quality of education in South Africa as disparaging and deficient as well as characterised by an increasing prevalence of dysfunctional schooling systems. Therefore, this research aimed to design a generic mentoring framework through which transformation within dysfunctional schooling systems can be facilitated; this is to enable whole school development to achieve best educational practice. In order to achieve this, a micro-level analysis of schooling systems, using the functionalist perspective, specifically enabled through the contributions of Parsons and Merton was undertaken. In addition, insight gained from a broad range of literature and other secondary resources on mentoring, best practice and quality education was used to develop a number of premises. These premises were used to suggest how the generic mentoring framework can be adapted to enable a fit-for-purpose mentoring system which allows facilitation of a process of sustained transformation which gravitates towards a whole school culture that envisions quality education for all. It is recommended that further research be undertaken to ascertain the strength of the generic mentoring framework and operationalising it as a fit-for-purpose mentoring system within a school in the form of a pilot study. Aligned with this, to undertake assessment research, amongst other things, to systematically and with greater depth explore the notions of intended and unintended consequences that manifest during operationalisation of a fit-for-purpose mentoring system and how these can and should be measured.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013