A sustainability practices educational intervention in response to environmental matters of concern amongst Makhanda youth
- Authors: Musiyiwa, Fungayi Lona
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Sustainable living South Africa Makhanda , Social learning South Africa Makhanda , Eco clubs South Africa Makhanda , Environmental education Activity programs South Africa Makhanda , Youth in development South Africa Makhanda , Youth Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188364 , vital:44747
- Description: This study responded to urbanisation as one of the challenges affecting youths’ lifestyles in this century. Children and youth around the world are living in overpopulated, polluted and unsafe environments which fail to produce opportunities for learning, play and recreation (World Health Organisation [WHO], 2017). This study explored these issues in the context of Makhanda with an intervention to engage youth in sustainability practices, to help them to strengthen sustainable lifestyles. The participants in this research were members of two eco-clubs from two schools in Makhanda ranging in age from 12-14 years (primary school) and 15-17 years (high school). The study explored how learning processes within a club intervention contributed to the well- being of participating youth and their capacity to live sustainable and fulfilling lives. The research explored (with participants) eight themes as matters of concern namely, ‘education’, ‘home-life’, ‘energy use’, ‘mobility’, ‘leisure and communication’, ‘waste’, ‘water’ and ‘food’. Detailed case narratives exploring Wals’ social learning stages were used to explore the themes. These themes were explored through photo narratives of the youths’ lives and matters of concern in sustainability issues, risks and practices emanating from the Makhanda context. The pedagogical framework for the intervention was guided by Wals’ social learning framework for mobilizing sustainability practices. Social learning interaction took place through all the stages of the framework and the challenges and potentials of the educational intervention were explored in relation to each stage. From the six themes suggested above the youth chose food and water as themes to take forward as a response project. The project pursued was a vegetable garden in which the youth were actively engaged in order to seek and try out sustainable ways of living. An interpretive approach was used within the interpretive paradigm. Qualitative data were generated through focus group discussions, observations, individual interviews and document analysis. Practice architectures theory was used analytically to explore the dynamics of the emergent sustainability practices initiated by the eco-club youth. I used it as a change method and a tool for initiating social learning actions for ‘sustainability practices’ projects. The study indicated that the youth’s key challenges affecting sustainability of their lifestyles are: lack of access to basic infrastructure, recreational facilities, electricity supply, transport, security and water. In this study, it was clear that much of the youth’s involvement in these matters of concern and sustainability issues was at the level of participating in the six themes through Wals’ social learning processes. This allowed youths to develop their knowledge and skills on how to participate in the gardening project rather than simply focusing on the environmental matters of concern in question. The Handprint Resource Books have been designed for educators who are looking for practical ideas to work with in the learning areas of the National Curriculum. The focus is on sustainability practices that can be taken up within the perspective that each learning area brings to environment and sustainability concerns. The use of the Handprint Resource Books promoted active youth participation and interaction encouraging youth to be reflective thinkers, which led to understanding of the issues and the sustainability practices that emerged during the discussions. The Handprint Resource Books focused on sustainability practices within the learning area of environment and sustainability concerns. Due to her facilitation skills, an environmental expert’s presentation on a sustainability topic enabled youths to select the intended project. The involvement of youth in the implementation of the vegetable garden as a sustainability practice empowered youth to be more confident in engaging in a collective action for change as they developed the capability to share and start their own vegetable gardens at their homes. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Environmental Learning Research Centre, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Musiyiwa, Fungayi Lona
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Sustainable living South Africa Makhanda , Social learning South Africa Makhanda , Eco clubs South Africa Makhanda , Environmental education Activity programs South Africa Makhanda , Youth in development South Africa Makhanda , Youth Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188364 , vital:44747
- Description: This study responded to urbanisation as one of the challenges affecting youths’ lifestyles in this century. Children and youth around the world are living in overpopulated, polluted and unsafe environments which fail to produce opportunities for learning, play and recreation (World Health Organisation [WHO], 2017). This study explored these issues in the context of Makhanda with an intervention to engage youth in sustainability practices, to help them to strengthen sustainable lifestyles. The participants in this research were members of two eco-clubs from two schools in Makhanda ranging in age from 12-14 years (primary school) and 15-17 years (high school). The study explored how learning processes within a club intervention contributed to the well- being of participating youth and their capacity to live sustainable and fulfilling lives. The research explored (with participants) eight themes as matters of concern namely, ‘education’, ‘home-life’, ‘energy use’, ‘mobility’, ‘leisure and communication’, ‘waste’, ‘water’ and ‘food’. Detailed case narratives exploring Wals’ social learning stages were used to explore the themes. These themes were explored through photo narratives of the youths’ lives and matters of concern in sustainability issues, risks and practices emanating from the Makhanda context. The pedagogical framework for the intervention was guided by Wals’ social learning framework for mobilizing sustainability practices. Social learning interaction took place through all the stages of the framework and the challenges and potentials of the educational intervention were explored in relation to each stage. From the six themes suggested above the youth chose food and water as themes to take forward as a response project. The project pursued was a vegetable garden in which the youth were actively engaged in order to seek and try out sustainable ways of living. An interpretive approach was used within the interpretive paradigm. Qualitative data were generated through focus group discussions, observations, individual interviews and document analysis. Practice architectures theory was used analytically to explore the dynamics of the emergent sustainability practices initiated by the eco-club youth. I used it as a change method and a tool for initiating social learning actions for ‘sustainability practices’ projects. The study indicated that the youth’s key challenges affecting sustainability of their lifestyles are: lack of access to basic infrastructure, recreational facilities, electricity supply, transport, security and water. In this study, it was clear that much of the youth’s involvement in these matters of concern and sustainability issues was at the level of participating in the six themes through Wals’ social learning processes. This allowed youths to develop their knowledge and skills on how to participate in the gardening project rather than simply focusing on the environmental matters of concern in question. The Handprint Resource Books have been designed for educators who are looking for practical ideas to work with in the learning areas of the National Curriculum. The focus is on sustainability practices that can be taken up within the perspective that each learning area brings to environment and sustainability concerns. The use of the Handprint Resource Books promoted active youth participation and interaction encouraging youth to be reflective thinkers, which led to understanding of the issues and the sustainability practices that emerged during the discussions. The Handprint Resource Books focused on sustainability practices within the learning area of environment and sustainability concerns. Due to her facilitation skills, an environmental expert’s presentation on a sustainability topic enabled youths to select the intended project. The involvement of youth in the implementation of the vegetable garden as a sustainability practice empowered youth to be more confident in engaging in a collective action for change as they developed the capability to share and start their own vegetable gardens at their homes. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Environmental Learning Research Centre, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
A Sustainable development lens to understanding community participation in rural development: a case of Malamule Village, Mpumalanga Province
- Authors: Mathabela, Queen
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57874 , vital:58300
- Description: The study sought to explore the nature and extent to which community participation takes place for sustainable rural development at Malamule village, to better understand how to accelerate participation at both a regional and local level leading to sustainable development. The study further investigated how community members participate and involve themselves in sustainable rural development processes and at the same time, it identified approaches used to encourage community participation and sustainability of rural development. A qualitative research methodology was adopted where semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with community members and project managers from two NGOs in Malamule village. A thematic analysis was adopted in this study as it drew on a few thoughts introduced from the hypothetical framework supporting this investigation. There were four main findings of the study: 1) that community members of Malamule consider participation as a tool of emancipation and that they are not just development beneficiaries but influencers; 2) that the existence of NGOs brings about significant relief to the community of Malamule, while too much dependency on them could cause long term problems if the community does not learn to be self-sufficient; 3) that only a small amount of resources, or support, is needed to set up something sustainable; and 4) that the community of Malamule is undergoing many challenges, which results in class disputes that eventually translate into lack of unity. The following is recommended: that NGOs prioritise full involvement of the target communities to promote participation; that NGOs must continue to create awareness in Malamule through consistently training and equipping community members; and that there is a need for the community members and NGOs to continue working together so that sustainable development can be achieved. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Mathabela, Queen
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57874 , vital:58300
- Description: The study sought to explore the nature and extent to which community participation takes place for sustainable rural development at Malamule village, to better understand how to accelerate participation at both a regional and local level leading to sustainable development. The study further investigated how community members participate and involve themselves in sustainable rural development processes and at the same time, it identified approaches used to encourage community participation and sustainability of rural development. A qualitative research methodology was adopted where semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with community members and project managers from two NGOs in Malamule village. A thematic analysis was adopted in this study as it drew on a few thoughts introduced from the hypothetical framework supporting this investigation. There were four main findings of the study: 1) that community members of Malamule consider participation as a tool of emancipation and that they are not just development beneficiaries but influencers; 2) that the existence of NGOs brings about significant relief to the community of Malamule, while too much dependency on them could cause long term problems if the community does not learn to be self-sufficient; 3) that only a small amount of resources, or support, is needed to set up something sustainable; and 4) that the community of Malamule is undergoing many challenges, which results in class disputes that eventually translate into lack of unity. The following is recommended: that NGOs prioritise full involvement of the target communities to promote participation; that NGOs must continue to create awareness in Malamule through consistently training and equipping community members; and that there is a need for the community members and NGOs to continue working together so that sustainable development can be achieved. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A systematic methodology to evaluating optimised machine learning based network intrusion detection systems
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye Ethridge
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Intrusion detection systems (Computer security) , Machine learning , Computer networks Security measures , Principal components analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/362774 , vital:65361
- Description: A network intrusion detection system (NIDS) is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks makes classifying unseen or novel network traffic challenging. Supervised machine learning techniques (ML) used in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios. Thus, dataset recency, size, and applicability are essential factors when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. This thesis explores developing and optimising several supervised ML algorithms with relatively new datasets constructed to depict real-world scenarios. The methodology includes empirical analyses of systematic ML-based NIDS for a near real-world network system to improve intrusion detection. The thesis is experimental heavy for model assessment. Data preparation methods are explored, followed by feature engineering techniques. The model evaluation process involves three experiments testing against a validation, un-trained, and retrained set. They compare several traditional machine learning and deep learning classifiers to identify the best NIDS model. Results show that the focus on feature scaling, feature selection methods and ML algo- rithm hyper-parameter tuning per model is an essential optimisation component. Distance based ML algorithm performed much better with quantile transformation whilst the tree based algorithms performed better without scaling. Permutation importance performs as a feature selection method compared to feature extraction using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) when applied against all ML algorithms explored. Random forests, Sup- port Vector Machines and recurrent neural networks consistently achieved the best results with high macro f1-score results of 90% 81% and 73% for the CICIDS 2017 dataset; and 72% 68% and 73% against the CICIDS 2018 dataset. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Chindove, Hatitye Ethridge
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Intrusion detection systems (Computer security) , Machine learning , Computer networks Security measures , Principal components analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/362774 , vital:65361
- Description: A network intrusion detection system (NIDS) is essential for mitigating computer network attacks in various scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of computer networks and attacks makes classifying unseen or novel network traffic challenging. Supervised machine learning techniques (ML) used in a NIDS can be affected by different scenarios. Thus, dataset recency, size, and applicability are essential factors when selecting and tuning a machine learning classifier. This thesis explores developing and optimising several supervised ML algorithms with relatively new datasets constructed to depict real-world scenarios. The methodology includes empirical analyses of systematic ML-based NIDS for a near real-world network system to improve intrusion detection. The thesis is experimental heavy for model assessment. Data preparation methods are explored, followed by feature engineering techniques. The model evaluation process involves three experiments testing against a validation, un-trained, and retrained set. They compare several traditional machine learning and deep learning classifiers to identify the best NIDS model. Results show that the focus on feature scaling, feature selection methods and ML algo- rithm hyper-parameter tuning per model is an essential optimisation component. Distance based ML algorithm performed much better with quantile transformation whilst the tree based algorithms performed better without scaling. Permutation importance performs as a feature selection method compared to feature extraction using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) when applied against all ML algorithms explored. Random forests, Sup- port Vector Machines and recurrent neural networks consistently achieved the best results with high macro f1-score results of 90% 81% and 73% for the CICIDS 2017 dataset; and 72% 68% and 73% against the CICIDS 2018 dataset. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
A systematic review of published literature examining the impact of father absence on adolescent identity formation
- Authors: Fata, Hope Aneliswa
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Absentee fathers , Adolescent analysis , Adolescent psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27039 , vital:66239
- Description: One of the major developmental crises an adolescent must overcome before becoming an adult is identity formation. Many studies focused on how the family influences the identity formation of adolescents, but little emphasis has been made specifically on how the absence of a father impacts the adolescent’s development of identity. This study aims to conduct a systematic review to examine the impact of absent fatherhood on the identity formation of adolescents. Several studies, from the year 2010 to date, have explored the impact of father absence on the identity formation of adolescents. The majority of studies conducted have been mostly quantitative and failed to explore the experiences of adolescents raised in absent-father households during this crucial stage of development. This study sought to add to the body of knowledge and bridge that gap by exploring the possible (negative or positive) impact of absent fatherhood in the identity-formation period of adolescents. This was a systematic review study that included a qualitative research design, whereby published literature and studies were identified through searching electronic databases. To synthesize and analyse the data, thematic analysis was used. This study’s exploration discovered that absent fatherhood can be experienced both positively and negatively by adolescents. Positively, it was found that a sense of independency developed in the adolescent and strengthens family relations and unity, with extended family members or external role models becoming more involved in the upbringing of the adolescent. Significantly, on the negative side, adolescents developed anger and resentment towards their absent fathers, questioning their absence and the individual’s sense of who they are and where they belong. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Fata, Hope Aneliswa
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Absentee fathers , Adolescent analysis , Adolescent psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27039 , vital:66239
- Description: One of the major developmental crises an adolescent must overcome before becoming an adult is identity formation. Many studies focused on how the family influences the identity formation of adolescents, but little emphasis has been made specifically on how the absence of a father impacts the adolescent’s development of identity. This study aims to conduct a systematic review to examine the impact of absent fatherhood on the identity formation of adolescents. Several studies, from the year 2010 to date, have explored the impact of father absence on the identity formation of adolescents. The majority of studies conducted have been mostly quantitative and failed to explore the experiences of adolescents raised in absent-father households during this crucial stage of development. This study sought to add to the body of knowledge and bridge that gap by exploring the possible (negative or positive) impact of absent fatherhood in the identity-formation period of adolescents. This was a systematic review study that included a qualitative research design, whereby published literature and studies were identified through searching electronic databases. To synthesize and analyse the data, thematic analysis was used. This study’s exploration discovered that absent fatherhood can be experienced both positively and negatively by adolescents. Positively, it was found that a sense of independency developed in the adolescent and strengthens family relations and unity, with extended family members or external role models becoming more involved in the upbringing of the adolescent. Significantly, on the negative side, adolescents developed anger and resentment towards their absent fathers, questioning their absence and the individual’s sense of who they are and where they belong. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
A systematic review of published literature examining the link between maternal attachment and adolescent anxiety
- Amos-Brown, Alexa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8180-3176
- Authors: Amos-Brown, Alexa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8180-3176
- Date: 2022-02
- Subjects: Adolescent psychopathology , Teenagers -- Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23677 , vital:58295
- Description: Aim: Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in mental health challenges in adolescents, specifically anxiety and depression. There has thus been concern around what could be causing this increase. The present study therefore aimed to examine the link between maternal attachment and adolescent anxiety. Methodology: The research was conducted using a qualitative systematic review as the methodological approach. The sample included ten academic journal articles. These articles were searched using Google Scholar and The University of Fort Hare’s library database search engine. Final articles were selected based on the systematic review process of ensuring that the articles matched the inclusion criteria, centred on the main research question and sub-questions. Findings and Results: At the end of the systematic review process, the final literature articles were analysed using thematic analysis, which identified, analysed, and reported emerging themes. The study revealed that secure attachment and sensitive parenting buffer and protect against the risk and onset of anxiety and adolescent internalizing behaviours. The thematic analysis findings identified emerging themes based on the data analysis, which include: ‘Sensitive parenting as a buffer’, ‘Quality attachment protects’, ‘Safe haven’, ‘Insecure attachment precedes emotion regulation difficulties’, ‘Insecure attachment is associated with anxiety’, ‘Social problems,’ and ‘Negative parental-control undermines attachment security’. Conclusion and recommendations: The extracts provided by the literature were able to successfully give sufficient information to meet all of my study’s research objectives. The findings revealed that very few articles spoke about interventions that can be applied to assist in the development of healthy maternal attachment. Therefore, it is recommended that research be conducted on attachment-based interventions and building restorative adolescent attachment bonds. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-02
- Authors: Amos-Brown, Alexa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8180-3176
- Date: 2022-02
- Subjects: Adolescent psychopathology , Teenagers -- Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23677 , vital:58295
- Description: Aim: Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in mental health challenges in adolescents, specifically anxiety and depression. There has thus been concern around what could be causing this increase. The present study therefore aimed to examine the link between maternal attachment and adolescent anxiety. Methodology: The research was conducted using a qualitative systematic review as the methodological approach. The sample included ten academic journal articles. These articles were searched using Google Scholar and The University of Fort Hare’s library database search engine. Final articles were selected based on the systematic review process of ensuring that the articles matched the inclusion criteria, centred on the main research question and sub-questions. Findings and Results: At the end of the systematic review process, the final literature articles were analysed using thematic analysis, which identified, analysed, and reported emerging themes. The study revealed that secure attachment and sensitive parenting buffer and protect against the risk and onset of anxiety and adolescent internalizing behaviours. The thematic analysis findings identified emerging themes based on the data analysis, which include: ‘Sensitive parenting as a buffer’, ‘Quality attachment protects’, ‘Safe haven’, ‘Insecure attachment precedes emotion regulation difficulties’, ‘Insecure attachment is associated with anxiety’, ‘Social problems,’ and ‘Negative parental-control undermines attachment security’. Conclusion and recommendations: The extracts provided by the literature were able to successfully give sufficient information to meet all of my study’s research objectives. The findings revealed that very few articles spoke about interventions that can be applied to assist in the development of healthy maternal attachment. Therefore, it is recommended that research be conducted on attachment-based interventions and building restorative adolescent attachment bonds. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-02
A systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa
- Authors: Watson, Storm Brandon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52995 , vital:44906
- Description: This study is set out to apply mixed methods approach to a systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa. Research into working capital management has primarily focused on the effect it has on a business’s profitability, liquidity and performance. There is, however, limited research on the topic working capital management in South Africa and, as such, the primary objective of this study is to review research outputs on working capital management in South Africa. The purpose is to identify research gaps in the current body of knowledge by means of the development of a recommendation’s framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Watson, Storm Brandon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52995 , vital:44906
- Description: This study is set out to apply mixed methods approach to a systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa. Research into working capital management has primarily focused on the effect it has on a business’s profitability, liquidity and performance. There is, however, limited research on the topic working capital management in South Africa and, as such, the primary objective of this study is to review research outputs on working capital management in South Africa. The purpose is to identify research gaps in the current body of knowledge by means of the development of a recommendation’s framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A systematic review of sustainability reports in South African listed companies
- Authors: Marawu, Lindiwe Nolitha
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Corporation reports -- South Africa , Financial statements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54036 , vital:46195
- Description: This study used a mixed methods approach to provide a systematic review of sustainability reports in South African listed companies that are included in the FTSE/JSE Responsible Investment Index. The purpose was to explore sustainability report content to guide companies of what should be included in such a report. A content analysis schedule was developed to provide the basis for the information to be extracted from the sustainability reports. Three categories, namely, biographical information, reporting format and the theoretical framework were included in the schedule. The sustainability reports of 18 South African JSE SRI Index companies listed on the JSE 2 July 2019 from the mining, retail and investment sectors were included in the sample. The main results showed that the majority of companies in the mining sector used sustainability reports, while nearly half of the companies in the retail sector used sustainability reports. Companies in the investment sector used a variety of reports with a third using integrated reports. Most companies used the JSE listing requirements as their guiding tool in developing their sustainability reports. Environmental issues also seemed to play a major role in sustainability development of a company irrespective of the sector to which it belonged. This systematic review identified the need for a regulator for sustainability reporting and the standardisation of sustainability report content. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Marawu, Lindiwe Nolitha
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Corporation reports -- South Africa , Financial statements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54036 , vital:46195
- Description: This study used a mixed methods approach to provide a systematic review of sustainability reports in South African listed companies that are included in the FTSE/JSE Responsible Investment Index. The purpose was to explore sustainability report content to guide companies of what should be included in such a report. A content analysis schedule was developed to provide the basis for the information to be extracted from the sustainability reports. Three categories, namely, biographical information, reporting format and the theoretical framework were included in the schedule. The sustainability reports of 18 South African JSE SRI Index companies listed on the JSE 2 July 2019 from the mining, retail and investment sectors were included in the sample. The main results showed that the majority of companies in the mining sector used sustainability reports, while nearly half of the companies in the retail sector used sustainability reports. Companies in the investment sector used a variety of reports with a third using integrated reports. Most companies used the JSE listing requirements as their guiding tool in developing their sustainability reports. Environmental issues also seemed to play a major role in sustainability development of a company irrespective of the sector to which it belonged. This systematic review identified the need for a regulator for sustainability reporting and the standardisation of sustainability report content. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
A systematic review on the use of methylphenidate as a performance-enhancing substance in tertiary institutions
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Stephen
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Methylphenidate
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51381 , vital:43269
- Description: The rationale of this treatise is to synthesize current research, nationally and internationally, both qualitative and quantitative with regards to methylphenidate and its use amongst university students. The study is undertaken to explore the use of methylphenidate by students, as well as the advantages and/or disadvantages of the substance as a performance-enhancer in tertiary institutions. The researcher chose a systematic review, because it summarizes the literature and it critically appraises and synthesizes a specific issue. It synthesizes the results of multiple primary studies that is related to each other, by using strategies that reduce biases and random errors. The methodology employed in this study is derived from Petticrew & Roberts (2006). They recommend that the proceeding 7-steps be noted and followed in conducting a systematic review namely: find existing reviews; define the research question; write the review protocol; decide on inclusion/exclusion criteria; source the literature; assess/appraise the literature; and write the report. The body of literature was accessed through the Nelson Mandela University’s Online Library Catalogue, specifically the accompanying databases: EBSCOhost, Digital Commons, Psych-info, Academic Search Complete, Sage Publications, Science Direct, JSTOR, and Taylor and Francis Online. This study, in the form of a systematic review, is undertaken to provide clarity and a broader perspective of the use of methylphenidate, the rationale or reasoning behind the use, as well as the negative consequences of non-prescription use of methylphenidate in universities, globally. The study is further undertaken to aid policy development in the construction of ethics concerning the use of methylphenidate in universities. Lastly, in relation to the analysis of data, the literature obtained from the systematic review was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) method of thematic analysis. Thematic analysis is a method for identifying, analysing, and reporting patterns (themes) within data (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Analysis will also be done by an independent reviewer to maintain rigour and reliability. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-12
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Stephen
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Methylphenidate
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51381 , vital:43269
- Description: The rationale of this treatise is to synthesize current research, nationally and internationally, both qualitative and quantitative with regards to methylphenidate and its use amongst university students. The study is undertaken to explore the use of methylphenidate by students, as well as the advantages and/or disadvantages of the substance as a performance-enhancer in tertiary institutions. The researcher chose a systematic review, because it summarizes the literature and it critically appraises and synthesizes a specific issue. It synthesizes the results of multiple primary studies that is related to each other, by using strategies that reduce biases and random errors. The methodology employed in this study is derived from Petticrew & Roberts (2006). They recommend that the proceeding 7-steps be noted and followed in conducting a systematic review namely: find existing reviews; define the research question; write the review protocol; decide on inclusion/exclusion criteria; source the literature; assess/appraise the literature; and write the report. The body of literature was accessed through the Nelson Mandela University’s Online Library Catalogue, specifically the accompanying databases: EBSCOhost, Digital Commons, Psych-info, Academic Search Complete, Sage Publications, Science Direct, JSTOR, and Taylor and Francis Online. This study, in the form of a systematic review, is undertaken to provide clarity and a broader perspective of the use of methylphenidate, the rationale or reasoning behind the use, as well as the negative consequences of non-prescription use of methylphenidate in universities, globally. The study is further undertaken to aid policy development in the construction of ethics concerning the use of methylphenidate in universities. Lastly, in relation to the analysis of data, the literature obtained from the systematic review was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) method of thematic analysis. Thematic analysis is a method for identifying, analysing, and reporting patterns (themes) within data (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Analysis will also be done by an independent reviewer to maintain rigour and reliability. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-12
A Talent Retention Framework for the South African Information Technology Sector
- Authors: Swart, Jean-pierre
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Information Technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58212 , vital:58728
- Description: The South African Information Technology (IT) sector is experiencing a chronic skills shortage, and the skills gap is widening. South African organisations try to retain existing skilled IT professionals in order to compete on a global platform, whilst simultaneously competing against international organisations who poach IT professionals from South Africa in what is referred to as “brain drain”. The South African IT sector is an increasingly important contributor to South Africa’s GDP, with several international corporates investing and creating opportunities in South Arica, including IBM, Dell, Microsoft and Intel. The retention of skilled IT professionals in South Africa is complex and costly due to the high demand for these professionals. An overview of the literature was provided that commenced with a broad analysis of strategic talent management frameworks in order to present a holistic view of talent management. From this broad analysis, the literature review narrowed the focus to the retention of talent. This section focused on the impact of organisational culture and employee engagement, whilst considering the critical roles that managers and leaders play in culture and employee engagement pertinent to the South African IT sector. The research paradigm adopted for this research was interpretivist and the methodology was qualitative research. The empirical data was collected through conducting semi-structured interviews with six IT professionals with extensive experience in the sector, and who directly play a role in the management and retention of skilled IT professionals. Various themes were developed from the interviews, with a focus on the extent of the skills gap and considerations regarding organisational culture, employee engagement and expectations from leaders and managers detailed in the themes. Finally, a talent retention framework for the South African IT sector was developed from the emerging themes. The themes included culture and the work environment, remuneration and benefits, continuous growth and employee engagement. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Swart, Jean-pierre
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Information Technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58212 , vital:58728
- Description: The South African Information Technology (IT) sector is experiencing a chronic skills shortage, and the skills gap is widening. South African organisations try to retain existing skilled IT professionals in order to compete on a global platform, whilst simultaneously competing against international organisations who poach IT professionals from South Africa in what is referred to as “brain drain”. The South African IT sector is an increasingly important contributor to South Africa’s GDP, with several international corporates investing and creating opportunities in South Arica, including IBM, Dell, Microsoft and Intel. The retention of skilled IT professionals in South Africa is complex and costly due to the high demand for these professionals. An overview of the literature was provided that commenced with a broad analysis of strategic talent management frameworks in order to present a holistic view of talent management. From this broad analysis, the literature review narrowed the focus to the retention of talent. This section focused on the impact of organisational culture and employee engagement, whilst considering the critical roles that managers and leaders play in culture and employee engagement pertinent to the South African IT sector. The research paradigm adopted for this research was interpretivist and the methodology was qualitative research. The empirical data was collected through conducting semi-structured interviews with six IT professionals with extensive experience in the sector, and who directly play a role in the management and retention of skilled IT professionals. Various themes were developed from the interviews, with a focus on the extent of the skills gap and considerations regarding organisational culture, employee engagement and expectations from leaders and managers detailed in the themes. Finally, a talent retention framework for the South African IT sector was developed from the emerging themes. The themes included culture and the work environment, remuneration and benefits, continuous growth and employee engagement. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students in South Africa
- Authors: van Heerden, Robyn
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems in education , Banks and banking, mobile , Education, Higher--Effect of technological innovations on
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20517 , vital:46073
- Description: Mobile banking, hereinafter referred to as m-banking, is a platform that allows individuals to conduct financial transactions using a mobile device at any given time. In today’s fast paced society, technologies have evolved to provide services that are convenient and benefit both the customer and service provider; these include m-banking. M-banking further encourages financial inclusion and economic growth, which are both crucial in South Africa. The aim of this research was to develop a trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students. This is an agency issue in the financial services industry as university students are a big segment of the future income earners and adopters of technology. Getting them to adopt and become regular m-banking users would significantly impact the revenue of banking institutions. The E-Commerce Acceptance Model and the Integrative Model of Organisational Trust were the two theoretical frameworks used as underlying theories to this study. A quantitative survey tool was employed to gather data at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. After an extensive literature review, a questionnaire was formulated and distributed to students at the University of Fort Hare, of whom 471 responded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected. Cronbach’s Alpha was employed to demonstrate the reliability of constructs used in the study and Pearson’s Product Moment. Correlation Coefficient r tested the strength of the relationships between these constructs. The study found that there are several factors that are significant, such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risk when investigating trust and its influences on m-banking adoption amongst university students. As a result, the study recommends that banks should consider the above-mentioned factors in order to improve trust and increase m-banking adoption among university students in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-01
- Authors: van Heerden, Robyn
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems in education , Banks and banking, mobile , Education, Higher--Effect of technological innovations on
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20517 , vital:46073
- Description: Mobile banking, hereinafter referred to as m-banking, is a platform that allows individuals to conduct financial transactions using a mobile device at any given time. In today’s fast paced society, technologies have evolved to provide services that are convenient and benefit both the customer and service provider; these include m-banking. M-banking further encourages financial inclusion and economic growth, which are both crucial in South Africa. The aim of this research was to develop a trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students. This is an agency issue in the financial services industry as university students are a big segment of the future income earners and adopters of technology. Getting them to adopt and become regular m-banking users would significantly impact the revenue of banking institutions. The E-Commerce Acceptance Model and the Integrative Model of Organisational Trust were the two theoretical frameworks used as underlying theories to this study. A quantitative survey tool was employed to gather data at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. After an extensive literature review, a questionnaire was formulated and distributed to students at the University of Fort Hare, of whom 471 responded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected. Cronbach’s Alpha was employed to demonstrate the reliability of constructs used in the study and Pearson’s Product Moment. Correlation Coefficient r tested the strength of the relationships between these constructs. The study found that there are several factors that are significant, such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risk when investigating trust and its influences on m-banking adoption amongst university students. As a result, the study recommends that banks should consider the above-mentioned factors in order to improve trust and increase m-banking adoption among university students in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-01
A value alignment smart city stakeholder model
- Van der Hoogen, Anthea Vivian
- Authors: Van der Hoogen, Anthea Vivian
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54129 , vital:46309
- Description: The concept of a Smart City has evolved over the last three decades and has attracted the increasing interest of the scientific research community. Unfortunately, many Smart City projects and initiatives do not provide the value expected by all the stakeholders. Many of the reasons for this relate to a lack of data management, data integration, data access and stakeholder participation. People are an integral part of any city’s ecosystem, and the Smart City concept was introduced to address the challenges of an ever-growing global population leading to the risk of depletion of economic, environmental and social resources. The problem addressed in this study is based on the challenges preventing the creation of the value of smart cities or stakeholders. Limited research has been published on the status of Smart City initiatives or on the impact of various success factors on the potential value creation for stakeholders including citizens. Studies on initiatives in developing countries, such as South Africa are even less. Whilst some challenges and constraints related to smart cities in Africa have been reported, there are no studies reporting on initiatives across the data value chain that consider all types of stakeholders, nor the impact of these initiatives. This study addressed this gap in research and designed a theoretical Value Alignment Smart City Stakeholder (VASCS) Model based on a Systematic Literature Review and a review of related theories. The model has important components that should form part of any Smart City project or Smart City initiative. These five main components are: 1) nine Smart City dimensions with related success factors; 2) four stakeholder roles (enablers, providers, utilisers and users); 3) the data value chain; and 4) the five phases of stakeholder benefits/value realisation that can be linked to; 5) stakeholder value alignment. This study applied the VASCS Model to Smart City initiatives in two case studies in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which were the Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City to investigate and understand the status of such initiatives and the alignment of value thereof. The stakeholder interviews were conducted in two rounds with various stakeholders of Smart City initiatives, referred to as cases in the two case studies. An expert review of the VASCS Model was conducted with eight experts in the field of Information Systems and Smart Cities. The findings of this review served to confirm the components of the model, with only minor improvements recommended. It was confirmed that all of the components need to be considered in planning Smart City projects. The first round consisted of six interviews with enablers and providers and the second round consisted of 22 interviews with users, utilisers and citizens. The interviews investigated the value and impact experienced by stakeholders of these initiatives, with a particular focus on the users, utilisers and citizens of the cases. The interview data was transcribed and qualitatively analysed by using Atlas.tiand Excel. The data was analysed according to the Technological, Organisational and Environmental theory constructs and other identified themes. The interview analysis findings revealed several drivers for these initiatives, which were primarily cost reduction, integration and quality assurance. The results also highlighted access to resources, such as technical skills as a challenge. Another challenge identified was connectivity related to access to data and the digital and physical divide that can impact decision making. The main benefits of Smart City initiatives highlighted were the provision of infrastructure, education and training and digitalisation. The theoretical contribution of this study is the VASCS Model, which can assist other researchers and practitioners with knowledge of the factors, drivers, challenges and value obtained in Smart City initiatives. The model has two supplementary components: A Stakeholder Classification Model and a Smart City Success Factor Evaluation Template. The practical contribution of this study is the potential use of the VASCS Model by practitioners, city management, researchers and other stakeholders, who can use the model, with the related model and template for planning and evaluating Smart City initiatives. The model can be used to classify the digital activities according to a Smart City’s success factors while evaluating the value created by these activities. The impact of these initiatives can then be assessed through value realisation and alignment for stakeholders. The scientific contribution is the adoption of the model to the cases in the Eastern Cape. To reveal in depth, rich, interview findings that provide important lessons learnt relating to the value created for the stakeholders and the addition of these findings to the body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Van der Hoogen, Anthea Vivian
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54129 , vital:46309
- Description: The concept of a Smart City has evolved over the last three decades and has attracted the increasing interest of the scientific research community. Unfortunately, many Smart City projects and initiatives do not provide the value expected by all the stakeholders. Many of the reasons for this relate to a lack of data management, data integration, data access and stakeholder participation. People are an integral part of any city’s ecosystem, and the Smart City concept was introduced to address the challenges of an ever-growing global population leading to the risk of depletion of economic, environmental and social resources. The problem addressed in this study is based on the challenges preventing the creation of the value of smart cities or stakeholders. Limited research has been published on the status of Smart City initiatives or on the impact of various success factors on the potential value creation for stakeholders including citizens. Studies on initiatives in developing countries, such as South Africa are even less. Whilst some challenges and constraints related to smart cities in Africa have been reported, there are no studies reporting on initiatives across the data value chain that consider all types of stakeholders, nor the impact of these initiatives. This study addressed this gap in research and designed a theoretical Value Alignment Smart City Stakeholder (VASCS) Model based on a Systematic Literature Review and a review of related theories. The model has important components that should form part of any Smart City project or Smart City initiative. These five main components are: 1) nine Smart City dimensions with related success factors; 2) four stakeholder roles (enablers, providers, utilisers and users); 3) the data value chain; and 4) the five phases of stakeholder benefits/value realisation that can be linked to; 5) stakeholder value alignment. This study applied the VASCS Model to Smart City initiatives in two case studies in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which were the Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City to investigate and understand the status of such initiatives and the alignment of value thereof. The stakeholder interviews were conducted in two rounds with various stakeholders of Smart City initiatives, referred to as cases in the two case studies. An expert review of the VASCS Model was conducted with eight experts in the field of Information Systems and Smart Cities. The findings of this review served to confirm the components of the model, with only minor improvements recommended. It was confirmed that all of the components need to be considered in planning Smart City projects. The first round consisted of six interviews with enablers and providers and the second round consisted of 22 interviews with users, utilisers and citizens. The interviews investigated the value and impact experienced by stakeholders of these initiatives, with a particular focus on the users, utilisers and citizens of the cases. The interview data was transcribed and qualitatively analysed by using Atlas.tiand Excel. The data was analysed according to the Technological, Organisational and Environmental theory constructs and other identified themes. The interview analysis findings revealed several drivers for these initiatives, which were primarily cost reduction, integration and quality assurance. The results also highlighted access to resources, such as technical skills as a challenge. Another challenge identified was connectivity related to access to data and the digital and physical divide that can impact decision making. The main benefits of Smart City initiatives highlighted were the provision of infrastructure, education and training and digitalisation. The theoretical contribution of this study is the VASCS Model, which can assist other researchers and practitioners with knowledge of the factors, drivers, challenges and value obtained in Smart City initiatives. The model has two supplementary components: A Stakeholder Classification Model and a Smart City Success Factor Evaluation Template. The practical contribution of this study is the potential use of the VASCS Model by practitioners, city management, researchers and other stakeholders, who can use the model, with the related model and template for planning and evaluating Smart City initiatives. The model can be used to classify the digital activities according to a Smart City’s success factors while evaluating the value created by these activities. The impact of these initiatives can then be assessed through value realisation and alignment for stakeholders. The scientific contribution is the adoption of the model to the cases in the Eastern Cape. To reveal in depth, rich, interview findings that provide important lessons learnt relating to the value created for the stakeholders and the addition of these findings to the body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Abortion and the role of self-forgiveness
- Authors: Van der Berg, Hailey
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Forgiveness -- Psychological aspects , Abortion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51917 , vital:43384
- Description: Women who have terminated a pregnancy may identify shame, guilt, grief, and/or regret after the procedure. This study aimed to explore and describe the self-forgiveness process of women in the Nelson Mandela Metropole area who identified negative emotions such as guilt and/or regret after an abortion. The methodology followed an exploratory-descriptive, qualitative design, adopting Lincoln and Guba's (1985) model of trustworthiness. Participants were obtained through non-probability purposive sampling and data was gathered via semi-structured, online individual interviews on a face-to-face basis. Data gathered was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. The findings reflected the participants’ perceptions of forgiveness and self-forgiveness, as well as the psychological experiences of women post-abortion. A self-forgiveness model developed by Enright and the Human Development Study Group (1996), as well as the stages of grief developed by Kübler-Ross and Kessler (2005), was utilised to conceptualise the psychological experiences and psychological healing of post-abortion women. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Van der Berg, Hailey
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Forgiveness -- Psychological aspects , Abortion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51917 , vital:43384
- Description: Women who have terminated a pregnancy may identify shame, guilt, grief, and/or regret after the procedure. This study aimed to explore and describe the self-forgiveness process of women in the Nelson Mandela Metropole area who identified negative emotions such as guilt and/or regret after an abortion. The methodology followed an exploratory-descriptive, qualitative design, adopting Lincoln and Guba's (1985) model of trustworthiness. Participants were obtained through non-probability purposive sampling and data was gathered via semi-structured, online individual interviews on a face-to-face basis. Data gathered was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. The findings reflected the participants’ perceptions of forgiveness and self-forgiveness, as well as the psychological experiences of women post-abortion. A self-forgiveness model developed by Enright and the Human Development Study Group (1996), as well as the stages of grief developed by Kübler-Ross and Kessler (2005), was utilised to conceptualise the psychological experiences and psychological healing of post-abortion women. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Academic distress & disordered eating in students
- Authors: Du Toit, Mae
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192626 , vital:45244
- Description: University students are at risk for reduced mental wellbeing, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, and among the most common problems experienced are academic distress and eating concerns. Through a stress-coping model lens, a link between academic distress and disordered eating in student populations appears possible but has not previously been explored. The present study examines this relationship in a South African undergraduate sample. Data were collected during the Covid-19 pandemic using a cross-sectional, correlational survey design and the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS). The results of a multiple regression analysis indicate that academic distress most strongly predicts eating concerns, followed by the demographic variables of female gender and black racial identification. This novel finding suggests that academic institutions should consider the broader academic environment as point of intervention for the prevention and treatment of disordered eating in students. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Du Toit, Mae
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192626 , vital:45244
- Description: University students are at risk for reduced mental wellbeing, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, and among the most common problems experienced are academic distress and eating concerns. Through a stress-coping model lens, a link between academic distress and disordered eating in student populations appears possible but has not previously been explored. The present study examines this relationship in a South African undergraduate sample. Data were collected during the Covid-19 pandemic using a cross-sectional, correlational survey design and the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS). The results of a multiple regression analysis indicate that academic distress most strongly predicts eating concerns, followed by the demographic variables of female gender and black racial identification. This novel finding suggests that academic institutions should consider the broader academic environment as point of intervention for the prevention and treatment of disordered eating in students. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
Academic or ‘zoombie’? Characterizing sleep quality, work and lifestyle behaviours among a cohort of South African academic staff during the Covid-19 pandemic
- Authors: Le Grange, Sarah-Ann
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Sleep-wake cycle South Africa Eastern Cape , Sleep Physiological aspects , Lifestyles Health aspects South Africa Eastern Cape , COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- Influence , Work environment Psychological aspects , Work environment Physiological aspects , College teachers Workload South Africa Eastern Cape , Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291099 , vital:56818
- Description: Working in academe is characterized by high work demands, long and late working hours and balancing multiple roles. This often leaves academic staff (interchangeably referred to as ‘academics’ and ‘staff’) with limited time to prioritize adequate rest and sleep. While sufficient sleep is important for general well-being and work performance, it may be important for academics given the cognitive and interactive nature of their work. However, limited research has characterized sleep behaviours and sleep quality in academic staff globally and specifically in South Africa (SA). Further, research shows that academics from different academic ranks and genders differ in their work experiences but less is known about whether these factors affect their sleep and lifestyle factors. Over and above the demands of academic work, the current study was conducted during COVID-19, which saw unprecedented change in workloads for academic staff due to online teaching and learning. Additionally, the pandemic has been associated with poorer sleep quality and lifestyle behaviours in the general population, but very few studies have explored this in the context of academics. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the sleep quality, work and lifestyle factors among academics from a university in the Eastern Cape province of SA and determine the effects of gender and academic rank on these measures. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on sleep and work-related factors of this group. This study adopted a cross-sectional design and made use of an online questionnaire that was distributed to all academics employed at the institution via email. The data collection occurred over an 8-week testing period between August and September of 2020. The questionnaire explored sociodemographic, work and lifestyle characteristics, while the characteristics of sleep and sleep quality were explored with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Additionally, an open-ended section was included to determine the impact of COVID-19-related changes on sleep and work. The questionnaire responses were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics and the open-ended questions were analyzed with thematic analyses. A total of 84 respondents completed the questionnaire. On average, sleep quality was poor (global score of 7.09 ± 3.8), the reported sleep duration was short (6.41 ± 1.06 hrs) and the group was classified as overweight according to median BMI (26.67 [23.8-2 29.45] kg/m2). Over a third (35.71%) of academic staff reported not meeting physical activity guidelines and reported using screens one hour prior to bed every night during the week (76.19%) and the weekend (67.88%). Staff also worked long total weekly work hours (54.25 ± 11). Female academics had a poorer sleep quality (p = 0.035), spent a longer time in bed (p = 0.04), experienced more bad dreams (p = <0.01), had their last serving of alcohol earlier (p = 0.04) and worked less weekday (p = 0.04) and less total weekly (p = 0.02) hours compared to male academics. Professorship-level academics were significantly older than junior- and senior-level academics (p = <0.01) while senior-level academics had a poorer PSQI compared to professorship-level academics (p = 0.03). The thematic analysis showed that home environment, neighbourhood noise, work and mental health were the main emerging factors that disturbed sleep. The thematic analysis showed that, in relation to the impact of COVID19, sleep schedules changed and sleep duration and sleep quality improved or got worse. Respondents reported their work hours increasing, work schedules becoming less routine while working from home, dealing with the challenges of working online and experiencing worry, stress and anxiety due to the pandemic. The study highlights that, in the context of lockdown and having to work and teach online from home, academics reported poor quality sleep and short sleep duration. Further, on average, the sample reported working extensive hours and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours. The sleep health, nature of work and overall lifestyles of academic staff deserves more research attention, given the importance of their work and the impact that inadequate sleep could have on academics’ health and work performance. Sleep quality was worse for females and mid-career academics, suggesting that their sleep quality may be at greater risk than other sub-groups. However, the reasons for these differences need to be explored in future studies. The findings contribute to the narrative that academe involves numerous demands and supports previous research that has suggested that academics’ sleep is insufficient. Furthermore, COVID-19 had an impact on staff’s sleep, with staff reporting changes in their sleep quality and duration. The pandemic impacted work of academics by presenting novel demands related to online teaching, intensifying demands overall and disrupting work routines. However, future research is needed to understand academics’ sleep behaviours, work and lifestyles, especially in South Africa. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Le Grange, Sarah-Ann
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Sleep-wake cycle South Africa Eastern Cape , Sleep Physiological aspects , Lifestyles Health aspects South Africa Eastern Cape , COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- Influence , Work environment Psychological aspects , Work environment Physiological aspects , College teachers Workload South Africa Eastern Cape , Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291099 , vital:56818
- Description: Working in academe is characterized by high work demands, long and late working hours and balancing multiple roles. This often leaves academic staff (interchangeably referred to as ‘academics’ and ‘staff’) with limited time to prioritize adequate rest and sleep. While sufficient sleep is important for general well-being and work performance, it may be important for academics given the cognitive and interactive nature of their work. However, limited research has characterized sleep behaviours and sleep quality in academic staff globally and specifically in South Africa (SA). Further, research shows that academics from different academic ranks and genders differ in their work experiences but less is known about whether these factors affect their sleep and lifestyle factors. Over and above the demands of academic work, the current study was conducted during COVID-19, which saw unprecedented change in workloads for academic staff due to online teaching and learning. Additionally, the pandemic has been associated with poorer sleep quality and lifestyle behaviours in the general population, but very few studies have explored this in the context of academics. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the sleep quality, work and lifestyle factors among academics from a university in the Eastern Cape province of SA and determine the effects of gender and academic rank on these measures. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on sleep and work-related factors of this group. This study adopted a cross-sectional design and made use of an online questionnaire that was distributed to all academics employed at the institution via email. The data collection occurred over an 8-week testing period between August and September of 2020. The questionnaire explored sociodemographic, work and lifestyle characteristics, while the characteristics of sleep and sleep quality were explored with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Additionally, an open-ended section was included to determine the impact of COVID-19-related changes on sleep and work. The questionnaire responses were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics and the open-ended questions were analyzed with thematic analyses. A total of 84 respondents completed the questionnaire. On average, sleep quality was poor (global score of 7.09 ± 3.8), the reported sleep duration was short (6.41 ± 1.06 hrs) and the group was classified as overweight according to median BMI (26.67 [23.8-2 29.45] kg/m2). Over a third (35.71%) of academic staff reported not meeting physical activity guidelines and reported using screens one hour prior to bed every night during the week (76.19%) and the weekend (67.88%). Staff also worked long total weekly work hours (54.25 ± 11). Female academics had a poorer sleep quality (p = 0.035), spent a longer time in bed (p = 0.04), experienced more bad dreams (p = <0.01), had their last serving of alcohol earlier (p = 0.04) and worked less weekday (p = 0.04) and less total weekly (p = 0.02) hours compared to male academics. Professorship-level academics were significantly older than junior- and senior-level academics (p = <0.01) while senior-level academics had a poorer PSQI compared to professorship-level academics (p = 0.03). The thematic analysis showed that home environment, neighbourhood noise, work and mental health were the main emerging factors that disturbed sleep. The thematic analysis showed that, in relation to the impact of COVID19, sleep schedules changed and sleep duration and sleep quality improved or got worse. Respondents reported their work hours increasing, work schedules becoming less routine while working from home, dealing with the challenges of working online and experiencing worry, stress and anxiety due to the pandemic. The study highlights that, in the context of lockdown and having to work and teach online from home, academics reported poor quality sleep and short sleep duration. Further, on average, the sample reported working extensive hours and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours. The sleep health, nature of work and overall lifestyles of academic staff deserves more research attention, given the importance of their work and the impact that inadequate sleep could have on academics’ health and work performance. Sleep quality was worse for females and mid-career academics, suggesting that their sleep quality may be at greater risk than other sub-groups. However, the reasons for these differences need to be explored in future studies. The findings contribute to the narrative that academe involves numerous demands and supports previous research that has suggested that academics’ sleep is insufficient. Furthermore, COVID-19 had an impact on staff’s sleep, with staff reporting changes in their sleep quality and duration. The pandemic impacted work of academics by presenting novel demands related to online teaching, intensifying demands overall and disrupting work routines. However, future research is needed to understand academics’ sleep behaviours, work and lifestyles, especially in South Africa. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Acceleration of Climate Change and the Impact on the Built Environment
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Mauritz Kenneth
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Natural disasters
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58532 , vital:59751
- Description: Climate change is widely acknowledged as one of humanity's most pressing problems in the twenty-first century. The emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) has changed the earth's normal climate cycle by raising the earth's surface temperature. The severity and frequency of various natural catastrophes, such as storms, floods, heat waves, and droughts, have increased as the earth's surface temperature has risen. These events have a devastating effect on populated areas; contaminating clean drinking water, leading to uncontrollable wildfires, damaging properties and infrastructure, environmental pollution, and loss of life. The increase in GHG emissions is largely contributed to by the built environment and the human activities within these areas. This research aimed to investigate the current state of climate change and the impact on the built environment. Furthermore, a quantitative approach was taken with regards to the research and a descriptive survey was conducted among professionals that work within the built environment, namely architects, project managers, construction managers, and electrical and mechanical engineers. The salient findings are: very few participants actively participate in activities to enhance their knowledge of climate change; most participants have a good understanding of what climate change is, although they make no extra effort to implement mitigating strategies on their projects other than what is required by the local council; most participants are unsure with respect to the impact that climate change has on the built environment, and most participants are unaware of global initiatives that South Africa has contributed to, to reduce GHG emissions. Governments and organisations around the world have implemented rules and regulations to regulate and decrease GHGs in the atmosphere, but it is still increasing at an accelerated rate. The increase of GHG emissions is devastating on all sectors of the built environment and will only intensify over time. As advancements are made to reduce GHG emissions progress has also been made to adapt to an ever-changing climate, specifically in the construction industry. Architecture and building processes have evolved to not only reduce the harmful effects on the environment but also to be more efficient and sustainable. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Mauritz Kenneth
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Natural disasters
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58532 , vital:59751
- Description: Climate change is widely acknowledged as one of humanity's most pressing problems in the twenty-first century. The emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) has changed the earth's normal climate cycle by raising the earth's surface temperature. The severity and frequency of various natural catastrophes, such as storms, floods, heat waves, and droughts, have increased as the earth's surface temperature has risen. These events have a devastating effect on populated areas; contaminating clean drinking water, leading to uncontrollable wildfires, damaging properties and infrastructure, environmental pollution, and loss of life. The increase in GHG emissions is largely contributed to by the built environment and the human activities within these areas. This research aimed to investigate the current state of climate change and the impact on the built environment. Furthermore, a quantitative approach was taken with regards to the research and a descriptive survey was conducted among professionals that work within the built environment, namely architects, project managers, construction managers, and electrical and mechanical engineers. The salient findings are: very few participants actively participate in activities to enhance their knowledge of climate change; most participants have a good understanding of what climate change is, although they make no extra effort to implement mitigating strategies on their projects other than what is required by the local council; most participants are unsure with respect to the impact that climate change has on the built environment, and most participants are unaware of global initiatives that South Africa has contributed to, to reduce GHG emissions. Governments and organisations around the world have implemented rules and regulations to regulate and decrease GHGs in the atmosphere, but it is still increasing at an accelerated rate. The increase of GHG emissions is devastating on all sectors of the built environment and will only intensify over time. As advancements are made to reduce GHG emissions progress has also been made to adapt to an ever-changing climate, specifically in the construction industry. Architecture and building processes have evolved to not only reduce the harmful effects on the environment but also to be more efficient and sustainable. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
Access to digitised archival collections in National Heritage and Cultural study Centre and International Library of African Music
- Authors: Barbra, Kakumba
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Archives -- Access control , Archival materials -- Access control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22356 , vital:52030
- Description: The study investigated access to digitised archival collections in two selected institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This study is significant because it sought to generate insights on adaptability of technology in archives and library operations, and accessibility thereof. This is important for monitoring the accessibility of digitised archival collections at institutions to improve their operations and maximize the global visibility. This study adopted qualitative research methodology. The researcher followed a rigorous methodological path that began with a thorough literature review and the careful and thoughtful posing of research questions and objectives. A purposive sample was chosen from National Heritage and Cultural Studies Centre (NAHECS) and International library of African Music (ILAM) (staff members) and interviewed through face-to-face interviews. The collected data was analysed thematically. The study established that, the type of materials digitised at NAHECS and ILAM are bound books, fragile papers, photographic prints, slides, audio-visual materials,artefacts and documents such as personal letters of early travellers,missionary’s records,traders writing personal file and political parties documents. Secondly, the study established that end users of digitised materials are researchers, students, archivist, librarians, international and local community, composers, musicians, and historians. It also emerged that awareness programmes used to increase public knowledge about access to digitised content in the two study sites include conferences, social media, and television advertisements. However, there are challenges faced in providing access to digitised materials at NAHECS and ILAM. Some of these challenges include lack of funding, unavailability of resources, lack of awareness, and information insecurity. These challenges have made access to digitised archival materials difficult. Based on these findings, it is recommended that archives facilities should be well resourced and archivists be continually trained on access to digitised archival materials. , Thesis (M Bibl) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Barbra, Kakumba
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Archives -- Access control , Archival materials -- Access control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22356 , vital:52030
- Description: The study investigated access to digitised archival collections in two selected institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This study is significant because it sought to generate insights on adaptability of technology in archives and library operations, and accessibility thereof. This is important for monitoring the accessibility of digitised archival collections at institutions to improve their operations and maximize the global visibility. This study adopted qualitative research methodology. The researcher followed a rigorous methodological path that began with a thorough literature review and the careful and thoughtful posing of research questions and objectives. A purposive sample was chosen from National Heritage and Cultural Studies Centre (NAHECS) and International library of African Music (ILAM) (staff members) and interviewed through face-to-face interviews. The collected data was analysed thematically. The study established that, the type of materials digitised at NAHECS and ILAM are bound books, fragile papers, photographic prints, slides, audio-visual materials,artefacts and documents such as personal letters of early travellers,missionary’s records,traders writing personal file and political parties documents. Secondly, the study established that end users of digitised materials are researchers, students, archivist, librarians, international and local community, composers, musicians, and historians. It also emerged that awareness programmes used to increase public knowledge about access to digitised content in the two study sites include conferences, social media, and television advertisements. However, there are challenges faced in providing access to digitised materials at NAHECS and ILAM. Some of these challenges include lack of funding, unavailability of resources, lack of awareness, and information insecurity. These challenges have made access to digitised archival materials difficult. Based on these findings, it is recommended that archives facilities should be well resourced and archivists be continually trained on access to digitised archival materials. , Thesis (M Bibl) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Administrative justice and the implementation of the reconstruction and development program in Berlin Town, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-12
Adolescent sexual reproductive health and rights in the Alice area, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Moko, Zukhanye
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Right to health , HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20676 , vital:46423
- Description: Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) is a significant aspect of adolescent’s growth. Adolescents particularly girls face the risk of exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), child marriages, high rates of unwanted pregnancy and the risk of those pregnancies can lead to unsafe abortion. In South Africa, considerable progress has been made in achieving improved access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) among the general population, however, some factors influencing SRHR of adolescents and young people have been slow to achieve. The study aims to investigate factors influencing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights of adolescents in Alice, which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The Social-Ecological Model was considered appropriate for this study as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the multiple and interacting determinants of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving focus groups with high school learners, in-depth interviews with institutional actors (Department of Health, Basic Education and Social Development), and participant observations. The study reveals that adolescents’ have access to Sexual Reproductive Health services from healthcare centres but only a few utilize or access them due to barriers such as the geographical location, denial and judgement about young people's sexuality limits their access to comprehensive knowledge to protect and promote their Sexual and Reproductive Health. The findings show that the adolescents who were most affected by Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights challenges were those from deep rural areas. They had minimal information/education compared to those residing in areas close to the town of Alice and major roads. Multi-sectoral interventions empowering adolescents and young people to exercise their rights to optimize SRHR service yield better results. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science & Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Moko, Zukhanye
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Right to health , HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20676 , vital:46423
- Description: Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) is a significant aspect of adolescent’s growth. Adolescents particularly girls face the risk of exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), child marriages, high rates of unwanted pregnancy and the risk of those pregnancies can lead to unsafe abortion. In South Africa, considerable progress has been made in achieving improved access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) among the general population, however, some factors influencing SRHR of adolescents and young people have been slow to achieve. The study aims to investigate factors influencing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights of adolescents in Alice, which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The Social-Ecological Model was considered appropriate for this study as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the multiple and interacting determinants of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving focus groups with high school learners, in-depth interviews with institutional actors (Department of Health, Basic Education and Social Development), and participant observations. The study reveals that adolescents’ have access to Sexual Reproductive Health services from healthcare centres but only a few utilize or access them due to barriers such as the geographical location, denial and judgement about young people's sexuality limits their access to comprehensive knowledge to protect and promote their Sexual and Reproductive Health. The findings show that the adolescents who were most affected by Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights challenges were those from deep rural areas. They had minimal information/education compared to those residing in areas close to the town of Alice and major roads. Multi-sectoral interventions empowering adolescents and young people to exercise their rights to optimize SRHR service yield better results. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science & Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
Adoption and use of a learning management system at the University of Fort Hare: environmental factors
- Authors: Xazela, M W H M
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Management information systems , Technology -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25851 , vital:64498
- Description: Learning Management Systems are adopted and used by institutions of higher learning such as universities, universities of technology and colleges. The acceptance of integrating Learning Management Systems into the traditional classroom method of teaching and learning presents many challenges to academic staff, students, and management at various levels. If such challenges are not addressed they may lead to project failure. If such projects fail, institutions may not realise the returns on their investments as institutions usually allocate many of their resources to start such projects. This study addresses the question of which critical environmental and management success factors are necessary for the successful acceptance of such a technology and what is necessary for such a technology to be used continually. This study examines Information Systems literature, users‘ environmental and management factors, and perceptions in the context of an institution of higher learning to suggest Critical Success Factors for such a project. Critical Success Factors are identified and discussed under the contexts of Management Support, the appointment of a Project Champion, provision of training to project participants, provision of adequate access to computing resources, monitoring and evaluation of the project, the existence of strong communication channels, and creation of positive perceptions about the target technology. Acceptance models such as Technology Acceptance Model and the Expectation Confirmation Model in Information Systems literature are also taken into consideration in coming up with the suggested Critical Success Factors. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
- Authors: Xazela, M W H M
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Management information systems , Technology -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25851 , vital:64498
- Description: Learning Management Systems are adopted and used by institutions of higher learning such as universities, universities of technology and colleges. The acceptance of integrating Learning Management Systems into the traditional classroom method of teaching and learning presents many challenges to academic staff, students, and management at various levels. If such challenges are not addressed they may lead to project failure. If such projects fail, institutions may not realise the returns on their investments as institutions usually allocate many of their resources to start such projects. This study addresses the question of which critical environmental and management success factors are necessary for the successful acceptance of such a technology and what is necessary for such a technology to be used continually. This study examines Information Systems literature, users‘ environmental and management factors, and perceptions in the context of an institution of higher learning to suggest Critical Success Factors for such a project. Critical Success Factors are identified and discussed under the contexts of Management Support, the appointment of a Project Champion, provision of training to project participants, provision of adequate access to computing resources, monitoring and evaluation of the project, the existence of strong communication channels, and creation of positive perceptions about the target technology. Acceptance models such as Technology Acceptance Model and the Expectation Confirmation Model in Information Systems literature are also taken into consideration in coming up with the suggested Critical Success Factors. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
Adoption of IT Systems by HR professionals in order to enhance efficacy at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Ngqubekile, Nolufefe
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Management information systems , Personnel management , Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27176 , vital:66326
- Description: This study seeks to address the adoption of Integrated Tertiary Software (ITS), ease of use of ITS and continuous usage in Human Resources Departments. The focus of this research project is User Acceptance and Continued Use of ITS within the HR Department - the case of Fort Hare University. The University is a multi - campus operation and the use of paper systems is extremely difficult. The University made a decision to invest in ITS with the objective of improving effectiveness and efficiency of services. The nature of the problem is that ITS is partially used and it is necessary to further explore the specific influence of technological and environmental factors that may change the user’s acceptance and use of this IT System. The nature of this study is Qualitative and follows an Interpretive Approach. The Research Instrument used is an in-depth questionnaire distributed and responded to by all HR Professionals at the UFH. Recommendations based on findings will be used to design the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for the Adoption of IT Systems by HR Professionals in order to enhance efficacy at the University of Fort Hare. The CSFs can be generalized to other settings and were identified for the UFH HR Department to include. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Ngqubekile, Nolufefe
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Management information systems , Personnel management , Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27176 , vital:66326
- Description: This study seeks to address the adoption of Integrated Tertiary Software (ITS), ease of use of ITS and continuous usage in Human Resources Departments. The focus of this research project is User Acceptance and Continued Use of ITS within the HR Department - the case of Fort Hare University. The University is a multi - campus operation and the use of paper systems is extremely difficult. The University made a decision to invest in ITS with the objective of improving effectiveness and efficiency of services. The nature of the problem is that ITS is partially used and it is necessary to further explore the specific influence of technological and environmental factors that may change the user’s acceptance and use of this IT System. The nature of this study is Qualitative and follows an Interpretive Approach. The Research Instrument used is an in-depth questionnaire distributed and responded to by all HR Professionals at the UFH. Recommendations based on findings will be used to design the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for the Adoption of IT Systems by HR Professionals in order to enhance efficacy at the University of Fort Hare. The CSFs can be generalized to other settings and were identified for the UFH HR Department to include. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010