Micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration of palladium and platinum anions
- Authors: Gwicana, Sakumzi
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Micelles , Ultrafiltration , Palladium catalysts
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/518 , Micelles , Ultrafiltration , Palladium catalysts
- Description: The project was concerned with studying the capability of a micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration system (MEUF) to remove platinum group metal ions namely Pt (lV) and Pd (ll) chloro anions from aqueous industrial waste effluents. South Africa has the world’s largest reserves of platinum group metals (PGMs) and other valuable metals such as manganese, chrome ores, titanium minerals etc. which are required for new automotive and other technologies, including fuel cells, catalytic converters and lighter components. The consistent loss with the industrial waste stream and the toxicological effects of these precious metals led to the need to develop new and effective methods to recover them from industrial waste effluents. With such a wide variety of fields where these PGMs are used and the failure of the traditional techniques namely sedimentation, fermentation etc. to effectively reduce or recover these highly toxic and precious metal ions prior to discharging industrial waste effluents, it is necessary to explore other techniques such as membrane technology that can be used to recover these valuable species from industrial waste streams. The present study involved the use of a cationic surfactant, viz cetylpyridinium chloride, which was introduced into an aqueous solution containing palladium and platinum metal anions. The surfactant forms charged micelles above a certain critical concentration value. The metal anions adsorb onto the available oppositely charged sites on the micelle surfaces and are then able to be retained by a suitable membrane. Hollow fibre ultrafiltration membranes with the MWCO of +/- 10 kD and +/-30nm pore size were used as a filter component in this study. For this MEUF system to be effective, it was vital that the anionic metal ion species adsorbed sufficiently onto the available oppositely charged sites of the micelles and that the micelles were retained efficiently by the membrane. Results obtained during the investigation made it possible to make certain predictions about the micellisation process. It was also found that, it was not only the metal ion: surfactant (M:S) ratio that was critical, but the presence of other electrolytes in the aqueous stream proved to have a huge impact on the capability of the MEUF system. Findings of this research study showed that the MEUF system using cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) can be used to recover or retain Pt (lV) and Pd (ll) anions from industrial waste effluents. It was also found that PtCl6 2-, due to its greater adsorption capabilities onto the micelle surface than PdCl4 2- or PdCl3(H2O)-, was preferentially retained in neutral medium. This may be exploited as a possible means of separating the two metal ions. The developed system offers the following advantages over some traditional and current methods: simplified unit operation line flow process, smaller amounts of chemical usage and no solid toxic sludge to be disposed of. Applications of this work could be of vital importance in catalytic converter recycling, especially in Port Elizabeth where extensive automobile parts manufacturing occurs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Gwicana, Sakumzi
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Micelles , Ultrafiltration , Palladium catalysts
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/518 , Micelles , Ultrafiltration , Palladium catalysts
- Description: The project was concerned with studying the capability of a micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration system (MEUF) to remove platinum group metal ions namely Pt (lV) and Pd (ll) chloro anions from aqueous industrial waste effluents. South Africa has the world’s largest reserves of platinum group metals (PGMs) and other valuable metals such as manganese, chrome ores, titanium minerals etc. which are required for new automotive and other technologies, including fuel cells, catalytic converters and lighter components. The consistent loss with the industrial waste stream and the toxicological effects of these precious metals led to the need to develop new and effective methods to recover them from industrial waste effluents. With such a wide variety of fields where these PGMs are used and the failure of the traditional techniques namely sedimentation, fermentation etc. to effectively reduce or recover these highly toxic and precious metal ions prior to discharging industrial waste effluents, it is necessary to explore other techniques such as membrane technology that can be used to recover these valuable species from industrial waste streams. The present study involved the use of a cationic surfactant, viz cetylpyridinium chloride, which was introduced into an aqueous solution containing palladium and platinum metal anions. The surfactant forms charged micelles above a certain critical concentration value. The metal anions adsorb onto the available oppositely charged sites on the micelle surfaces and are then able to be retained by a suitable membrane. Hollow fibre ultrafiltration membranes with the MWCO of +/- 10 kD and +/-30nm pore size were used as a filter component in this study. For this MEUF system to be effective, it was vital that the anionic metal ion species adsorbed sufficiently onto the available oppositely charged sites of the micelles and that the micelles were retained efficiently by the membrane. Results obtained during the investigation made it possible to make certain predictions about the micellisation process. It was also found that, it was not only the metal ion: surfactant (M:S) ratio that was critical, but the presence of other electrolytes in the aqueous stream proved to have a huge impact on the capability of the MEUF system. Findings of this research study showed that the MEUF system using cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) can be used to recover or retain Pt (lV) and Pd (ll) anions from industrial waste effluents. It was also found that PtCl6 2-, due to its greater adsorption capabilities onto the micelle surface than PdCl4 2- or PdCl3(H2O)-, was preferentially retained in neutral medium. This may be exploited as a possible means of separating the two metal ions. The developed system offers the following advantages over some traditional and current methods: simplified unit operation line flow process, smaller amounts of chemical usage and no solid toxic sludge to be disposed of. Applications of this work could be of vital importance in catalytic converter recycling, especially in Port Elizabeth where extensive automobile parts manufacturing occurs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Resilience in families where a member is living with schizophrenia
- Authors: Haddad, Jason
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Schizophrenia , Schizophrenia -- South Africa -- Family relationships , Resilience (Personality trait)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/654 , Schizophrenia , Schizophrenia -- South Africa -- Family relationships , Resilience (Personality trait)
- Description: Schizophrenia cuts across all racial, gender, and socioeconomic lines. Schizophrenia affects 1 percent of the population in Ireland: 35000 people (Schultz & Andreason, 1999); and affects 1.4 - 4.6 percent per 1000 people in the USA: 2.8 million - 9.8 million people (Jabelensky, 2004). In South Africa the figure is approximately 1 percent of the population or 500 000 people (Nicholas, Malcolm, Krosigk & Pillay, 2003). The median age of onset is 21.4 years for men and 26.8 years for women (Daubenton & van Rensburg, 2001), with only 10-20 percent recovering fully after the first psychotic episode (Saddock & Saddock, 2003). The schizophrenic patient is often unable to continue life as before diagnosis, and may progressively need more care as the years pass. Deinstitutionalization over the course of a number of decades has resulted in responsibility for care of mentally-ill individuals shifting to the individual’s family. The struggles faced by such a family can be overwhelming as they struggle with this responsibilty due to lack of training, lack of knowledge and insufficient professional support (Winefield & Harvey, 1994). The stress on the caregivers is often magnified as their support structures around them may ‘shut down’ out of fear of the schizophrenic illness (Williams & Mfoafo-M’Carthy, 2006). The characteristic symptoms used to define schizophrenia include various forms of delusions, hallucinations, thought disorders and abnormalities in emotional expression, social interaction, attention, volition and drives. The functional decline of the schizophrenic individual leads not only to social difficulties, but also economic difficulties that may cripple a family (Fadden, Bebbington & Kuipers, 1987). When first diagnosed, some families may be so overwhelmed by the ‘label’ given to their family member, that they see little hope or way to move forward. One explanation is offered by an American psychiatrist whose own son was diagnosed with schizophrenia, “We experience this terrible feeling of loss and grief for the son we knew. There is also this terrible loss of expectations. We feel cheated out of watching him mature…it is a mourning without end because, of course, Gary is not dead at all. He is very much still with us, seeming eternally twelve years old, needing constant care and attention” (Willick, 1994, p.14). Providing such care is associated with high levels of distress. Accordingly, much attention has been given to understanding the pressures faced by family members, with the hope of understanding how coping resources may be strengthened to sustain these care-giving relationships (Harvey, Burns, Fahy, Manley & Tattan, 2001). However, despite gains in understanding the needs of a schizophrenic family member once out of the hospital environment, care-giving relationships can still break down. The individual with the illness is often left more vulnerable to relapse, recurrent hospitalizations, homelessness and other negative outcomes (Jewel & Stein, 2002). The stress of not only interacting with the afflicted family member, but also with the grief associated with the illness, places an incredible strain on the day-to-day functioning of that family (Pollio, North, Reid, Miletic & McClendon, 2006). From the brief review provided, it is evident that research has been conducted regarding the stressors, strains and difficulties of caregivers of schizophrenic family members. However, the strengths of these families are under-investigated, and the current study will attempt to start filling this void.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Haddad, Jason
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Schizophrenia , Schizophrenia -- South Africa -- Family relationships , Resilience (Personality trait)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/654 , Schizophrenia , Schizophrenia -- South Africa -- Family relationships , Resilience (Personality trait)
- Description: Schizophrenia cuts across all racial, gender, and socioeconomic lines. Schizophrenia affects 1 percent of the population in Ireland: 35000 people (Schultz & Andreason, 1999); and affects 1.4 - 4.6 percent per 1000 people in the USA: 2.8 million - 9.8 million people (Jabelensky, 2004). In South Africa the figure is approximately 1 percent of the population or 500 000 people (Nicholas, Malcolm, Krosigk & Pillay, 2003). The median age of onset is 21.4 years for men and 26.8 years for women (Daubenton & van Rensburg, 2001), with only 10-20 percent recovering fully after the first psychotic episode (Saddock & Saddock, 2003). The schizophrenic patient is often unable to continue life as before diagnosis, and may progressively need more care as the years pass. Deinstitutionalization over the course of a number of decades has resulted in responsibility for care of mentally-ill individuals shifting to the individual’s family. The struggles faced by such a family can be overwhelming as they struggle with this responsibilty due to lack of training, lack of knowledge and insufficient professional support (Winefield & Harvey, 1994). The stress on the caregivers is often magnified as their support structures around them may ‘shut down’ out of fear of the schizophrenic illness (Williams & Mfoafo-M’Carthy, 2006). The characteristic symptoms used to define schizophrenia include various forms of delusions, hallucinations, thought disorders and abnormalities in emotional expression, social interaction, attention, volition and drives. The functional decline of the schizophrenic individual leads not only to social difficulties, but also economic difficulties that may cripple a family (Fadden, Bebbington & Kuipers, 1987). When first diagnosed, some families may be so overwhelmed by the ‘label’ given to their family member, that they see little hope or way to move forward. One explanation is offered by an American psychiatrist whose own son was diagnosed with schizophrenia, “We experience this terrible feeling of loss and grief for the son we knew. There is also this terrible loss of expectations. We feel cheated out of watching him mature…it is a mourning without end because, of course, Gary is not dead at all. He is very much still with us, seeming eternally twelve years old, needing constant care and attention” (Willick, 1994, p.14). Providing such care is associated with high levels of distress. Accordingly, much attention has been given to understanding the pressures faced by family members, with the hope of understanding how coping resources may be strengthened to sustain these care-giving relationships (Harvey, Burns, Fahy, Manley & Tattan, 2001). However, despite gains in understanding the needs of a schizophrenic family member once out of the hospital environment, care-giving relationships can still break down. The individual with the illness is often left more vulnerable to relapse, recurrent hospitalizations, homelessness and other negative outcomes (Jewel & Stein, 2002). The stress of not only interacting with the afflicted family member, but also with the grief associated with the illness, places an incredible strain on the day-to-day functioning of that family (Pollio, North, Reid, Miletic & McClendon, 2006). From the brief review provided, it is evident that research has been conducted regarding the stressors, strains and difficulties of caregivers of schizophrenic family members. However, the strengths of these families are under-investigated, and the current study will attempt to start filling this void.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Sender Policy Framework as a tool for SPAM reduction
- Authors: Halse, Guy A
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: Conference paper
- Identifier: vital:6609 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009520
- Description: A brief presentation on the Sender Policy Framework as a tool for SPAM reduction given to a community of higher education IT practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Halse, Guy A
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: Conference paper
- Identifier: vital:6609 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009520
- Description: A brief presentation on the Sender Policy Framework as a tool for SPAM reduction given to a community of higher education IT practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Investigating the implementation of continuous assessment at the lower primary phase in a Namibian school
- Authors: Hamukonda, Paulina
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Education, Elementary -- Namibia Educational tests and measurements -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003474
- Description: Many Namibian teachers experience difficulties in actualising the principles of learner-centred education, one of which being continuous assessment. Continuous assessment serves important formative purposes. That is, it can inform education stakeholders and help improve learners’ progress in the teaching and learning environment. Although a great deal is known about continuous assessment in general, not much is yet known about how Namibian lower primary teachers actually understand and implement continuous assessment in the classroom. This study investigates the assessment practices of three Grade Three teachers in a school in Oshana Region of Namibia. The study found that although the teachers who participated in the investigation have a reasonably sound knowledge of continuous assessment in theory, they lack implementation skills. They were unable to effectively transfer what they know to what they actually do. This study found that as much as training of teachers is important, the ongoing professional development of teachers is more appropriate for enhancing a complex understanding of issues related to learner-centred education that will help them to manage continuous assessment more effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hamukonda, Paulina
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Education, Elementary -- Namibia Educational tests and measurements -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003474
- Description: Many Namibian teachers experience difficulties in actualising the principles of learner-centred education, one of which being continuous assessment. Continuous assessment serves important formative purposes. That is, it can inform education stakeholders and help improve learners’ progress in the teaching and learning environment. Although a great deal is known about continuous assessment in general, not much is yet known about how Namibian lower primary teachers actually understand and implement continuous assessment in the classroom. This study investigates the assessment practices of three Grade Three teachers in a school in Oshana Region of Namibia. The study found that although the teachers who participated in the investigation have a reasonably sound knowledge of continuous assessment in theory, they lack implementation skills. They were unable to effectively transfer what they know to what they actually do. This study found that as much as training of teachers is important, the ongoing professional development of teachers is more appropriate for enhancing a complex understanding of issues related to learner-centred education that will help them to manage continuous assessment more effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Nguni fermented foods: working with indigenous knowledge in the Life Sciences: a case study
- Authors: Hanisi, Nosipho
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Fermented foods -- Case studies Fermentation Indigenous peoples -- Case studies Nguni (African people) -- Social life and customs. Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs. Ethnoscience
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1957 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008372
- Description: This study examines learning interactions around indigenous ways of knowing associated with fermented grain foods (the making of umqombothi) and the concept of alcoholic fermentation in the Grade 11 Life Sciences curriculum. As an environmental education study it also investigates the cultural significances of the fermented grain food and how learners might make better lifestyle choices. The inclusion of indigenous ways of knowing in the Life Sciences curriculum (FET band) created spaces and opportunities for the use of both knowledge's in sociocultural context and the structured propositions of the learning area in order to construct knowledge. This stimulated learners' understanding of fermentation and also led to a valuing of social context as well as the cultural capital embedded in the indigenous ways of knowing. The study suggests that parental involvement contributed to this valuing of intergenerational ways of knowing. Learners also deliberated how colonial interpretations of Nguni culture and the religious beliefs of Christians had served to marginalise and foster a widening urban rejection of isiXhosa cultural practices related to fermented foods. In their learning and discussion, learners developed new insights and respect for isiXhosa fermentation practices (ukudidiyela) that bring out the food value and nutrition in the grain. The data illustrates that lesson activity that drew on relevant Learning Outcomes and Assessment Standards to integrate Indigenous Knowledge practices in a Life Sciences learning programme, served to enhance learner understanding of alcoholic fermentation. They also document a revaluing of cultural heritage and learners bringing up the problem of alcohol abuse in the community. Curriculum work with Indigenous Knowledge thus not only assisted learners to grasp the science but to use this alongside a valued cultural knowledge capital to deliberate and act on a local concern.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hanisi, Nosipho
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Life sciences -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Fermented foods -- Case studies Fermentation Indigenous peoples -- Case studies Nguni (African people) -- Social life and customs. Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs. Ethnoscience
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1957 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008372
- Description: This study examines learning interactions around indigenous ways of knowing associated with fermented grain foods (the making of umqombothi) and the concept of alcoholic fermentation in the Grade 11 Life Sciences curriculum. As an environmental education study it also investigates the cultural significances of the fermented grain food and how learners might make better lifestyle choices. The inclusion of indigenous ways of knowing in the Life Sciences curriculum (FET band) created spaces and opportunities for the use of both knowledge's in sociocultural context and the structured propositions of the learning area in order to construct knowledge. This stimulated learners' understanding of fermentation and also led to a valuing of social context as well as the cultural capital embedded in the indigenous ways of knowing. The study suggests that parental involvement contributed to this valuing of intergenerational ways of knowing. Learners also deliberated how colonial interpretations of Nguni culture and the religious beliefs of Christians had served to marginalise and foster a widening urban rejection of isiXhosa cultural practices related to fermented foods. In their learning and discussion, learners developed new insights and respect for isiXhosa fermentation practices (ukudidiyela) that bring out the food value and nutrition in the grain. The data illustrates that lesson activity that drew on relevant Learning Outcomes and Assessment Standards to integrate Indigenous Knowledge practices in a Life Sciences learning programme, served to enhance learner understanding of alcoholic fermentation. They also document a revaluing of cultural heritage and learners bringing up the problem of alcohol abuse in the community. Curriculum work with Indigenous Knowledge thus not only assisted learners to grasp the science but to use this alongside a valued cultural knowledge capital to deliberate and act on a local concern.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Estimating erosion of cretaceous-aged kimberlites in the Republic of South Africa through the examination of upper-crustal xenoliths
- Authors: Hanson, Emily Kate
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Kimberlite -- South Africa , Igneous rocks -- Inclusions -- South Africa , Erosion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005554 , Kimberlite -- South Africa , Igneous rocks -- Inclusions -- South Africa , Erosion -- South Africa
- Description: he estimation of post-emplacement kimberlite erosion in South Africa through the study of upper-crustal xenoliths is relatively unexplored; however the presence of these xenoliths has been recognized for well over 100 years. Post-emplacement erosion levels of a small number of South African kimberlite pipes have been inferred through the study of the degree of country-rock diagenesis, the depth of sill formation, the depth of the initiation of the diatreme and fission track studies. Through these studies, several estimates were proposed for the Group I Kimberley kimberlites. Although the 1400 m estimate of erosion remains widely accepted today, this estimate relies on the presence of Karoo-like basalt xenoliths in the Group I Kimberley kimberlites, as their presence proves that basalt existed in the Kimberley area when the kimberlites were emplaced. Basaltic xenoliths were described during the early stages of mining in Kimberley, though only one of these descriptions suggests that the ‘basaltic’ boulders correlate with the Karoo basalts. Because of the discrepancy between these early documentations of upper-crustal xenoliths and because the occurrence of Karoo-like basalt xenoliths in the Group I Kimberley kimberlites is under question, a re-investigation of the erosion levels and the upper crustal xenolith suites in South African, Cretaceous-aged kimberlites, including Melton Wold, Voorspoed, Roberts Victor, West End, Record Stone Quarry, Finsch, Markt, Frank Smith, Pampoenpoort, Uintjiesberg, Koffiefontein / Ebenheuyser, Monastery, Kimberley (Big Hole), Kamfersdam , Jagersfontein, Kaal Vallei, De Beers, Bultfontein, Lushof, Britstown Cluster, Hebron and Lovedale, was conducted. This study presents the analytical results for upper-crustal sandstone and basalt xenoliths collected from dumps, excavation pits and borehole core at the above-mentioned kimberlites, and demonstrates that they correlate with stratigraphic units of the Karoo Supergroup on the basis of mineral and geochemical compositions. These upper-crustal xenoliths are incorporated into kimberlites and down-rafted to levels below their stratigraphic position during kimberlite emplacement, consequently recording the broad stratigraphy into which each kimberlite is emplaced. Therefore, the Cretaceous lateral extent of the Karoo Supergroup is inferred and post-emplacement erosion estimated by reconstructing the stratigraphy based on upper-crustal xenolith suites for each kimberlite and calculating the total thickness of the now-eroded units. The distribution of sandstone xenoliths indicates that during the Cretaceous the lateral extent of the Dwyka, Ecca and Beaufort Groups encompassed all of the examined kimberlites, while the ‘Stormberg’ Group was constrained to an area outlined by the Voorspoed and Monastery kimberlites. Similarly, basalt xenoliths occur in all of the Group II and transitional (143 – 100 Ma) kimberlites but only in the Group I (90 – 74 Ma) kimberlites that lie within close proximity to the western outcrop margin of the outcrop area of the Drakensberg Group basalts (Lesotho Remnant), namely Monastery, Jagersfontein and Kaal Vallei. This trend implies an eastward-retreat of the inland erosion front of the Karoo basalts between 140 and 90 Ma and subsequent erosion of the underlying sedimentary units. It also suggests that a thicker succession of Karoo strata was present at the time of Group II and transitional kimberlite emplacement and that there has been more post-emplacement erosion in these kimberlites than the younger Group I kimberlites, except for Monastery, Jagersfontein and Kaal Vallei. Estimates are unique to each kimberlite as they are dependent on both stratigraphic location, elevation and present country rock, and range from approximately 1000 – 2500 m for the older kimberlites and less than 700 m to 1400 m for the younger kimberlites. Furthermore, the upper-crustal xenoliths found at the Group I Kimberley kimberlites and the coinciding trend of basalt erosion demonstrate that Karoo basalts were eroded from the Kimberley area by the time the Group I Kimberley kimberlites erupted (~85 Ma). Therefore, basalts are omitted from the Group I Kimberley kimberlites post-emplacement erosion estimate, and the upper Beaufort Group is considered the upper limit of the stratigraphy that was present at the time of the eruption of the Group I Kimberley pipes. Therefore, the erosion estimates decrease from a previous estimate of 1400 m down to 400 to 1100 m, where 850 m is considered a dependable intermediate estimate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hanson, Emily Kate
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Kimberlite -- South Africa , Igneous rocks -- Inclusions -- South Africa , Erosion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005554 , Kimberlite -- South Africa , Igneous rocks -- Inclusions -- South Africa , Erosion -- South Africa
- Description: he estimation of post-emplacement kimberlite erosion in South Africa through the study of upper-crustal xenoliths is relatively unexplored; however the presence of these xenoliths has been recognized for well over 100 years. Post-emplacement erosion levels of a small number of South African kimberlite pipes have been inferred through the study of the degree of country-rock diagenesis, the depth of sill formation, the depth of the initiation of the diatreme and fission track studies. Through these studies, several estimates were proposed for the Group I Kimberley kimberlites. Although the 1400 m estimate of erosion remains widely accepted today, this estimate relies on the presence of Karoo-like basalt xenoliths in the Group I Kimberley kimberlites, as their presence proves that basalt existed in the Kimberley area when the kimberlites were emplaced. Basaltic xenoliths were described during the early stages of mining in Kimberley, though only one of these descriptions suggests that the ‘basaltic’ boulders correlate with the Karoo basalts. Because of the discrepancy between these early documentations of upper-crustal xenoliths and because the occurrence of Karoo-like basalt xenoliths in the Group I Kimberley kimberlites is under question, a re-investigation of the erosion levels and the upper crustal xenolith suites in South African, Cretaceous-aged kimberlites, including Melton Wold, Voorspoed, Roberts Victor, West End, Record Stone Quarry, Finsch, Markt, Frank Smith, Pampoenpoort, Uintjiesberg, Koffiefontein / Ebenheuyser, Monastery, Kimberley (Big Hole), Kamfersdam , Jagersfontein, Kaal Vallei, De Beers, Bultfontein, Lushof, Britstown Cluster, Hebron and Lovedale, was conducted. This study presents the analytical results for upper-crustal sandstone and basalt xenoliths collected from dumps, excavation pits and borehole core at the above-mentioned kimberlites, and demonstrates that they correlate with stratigraphic units of the Karoo Supergroup on the basis of mineral and geochemical compositions. These upper-crustal xenoliths are incorporated into kimberlites and down-rafted to levels below their stratigraphic position during kimberlite emplacement, consequently recording the broad stratigraphy into which each kimberlite is emplaced. Therefore, the Cretaceous lateral extent of the Karoo Supergroup is inferred and post-emplacement erosion estimated by reconstructing the stratigraphy based on upper-crustal xenolith suites for each kimberlite and calculating the total thickness of the now-eroded units. The distribution of sandstone xenoliths indicates that during the Cretaceous the lateral extent of the Dwyka, Ecca and Beaufort Groups encompassed all of the examined kimberlites, while the ‘Stormberg’ Group was constrained to an area outlined by the Voorspoed and Monastery kimberlites. Similarly, basalt xenoliths occur in all of the Group II and transitional (143 – 100 Ma) kimberlites but only in the Group I (90 – 74 Ma) kimberlites that lie within close proximity to the western outcrop margin of the outcrop area of the Drakensberg Group basalts (Lesotho Remnant), namely Monastery, Jagersfontein and Kaal Vallei. This trend implies an eastward-retreat of the inland erosion front of the Karoo basalts between 140 and 90 Ma and subsequent erosion of the underlying sedimentary units. It also suggests that a thicker succession of Karoo strata was present at the time of Group II and transitional kimberlite emplacement and that there has been more post-emplacement erosion in these kimberlites than the younger Group I kimberlites, except for Monastery, Jagersfontein and Kaal Vallei. Estimates are unique to each kimberlite as they are dependent on both stratigraphic location, elevation and present country rock, and range from approximately 1000 – 2500 m for the older kimberlites and less than 700 m to 1400 m for the younger kimberlites. Furthermore, the upper-crustal xenoliths found at the Group I Kimberley kimberlites and the coinciding trend of basalt erosion demonstrate that Karoo basalts were eroded from the Kimberley area by the time the Group I Kimberley kimberlites erupted (~85 Ma). Therefore, basalts are omitted from the Group I Kimberley kimberlites post-emplacement erosion estimate, and the upper Beaufort Group is considered the upper limit of the stratigraphy that was present at the time of the eruption of the Group I Kimberley pipes. Therefore, the erosion estimates decrease from a previous estimate of 1400 m down to 400 to 1100 m, where 850 m is considered a dependable intermediate estimate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
A critical ethnographic study of report writing as a literacy practice by automotive engineers
- Authors: Harran, Marcelle
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: English language -- Written English -- South Africa Written communication -- South Africa Literacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa Engineers -- Language -- South Africa Communication in engineering -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1476 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003357
- Description: This study describes the social practices involved in the situated activity of report writing in an engineering automotive discourse community in South Africa. In particular, the study focuses on the subjectivity of predominantly English Second Language (ESL) engineers writing reports by determining what literacy means to them and what meanings they give to dominant literacy practices in report writing, especially feedback in text production. In the South African engineering workplace, because of the diversity and complexity of language and identity issues, the appropriation of the required literacy skills tends to be multifaceted. This context is made more complex as English is the business language upon which engineering is based with engineering competence often related to English proficiency. Therefore, the study is located within the understanding that literacy is always situated within specific discoursal practices whose ideologies, beliefs, power relations, values and identities are manifested rhetorically. The basis for this critical theory of literacy is the assertion that literacy is a social practice which involves not only observable units of behaviour but values, attitudes, feelings and social relationships. As the institution’s socio-cultural context in the form of embedded historical and institutional forces impact on writer identity and writing practices or ways of doing report writing, notions of writing as a transparent and autonomous system are also challenged. As critical ethnography is concerned with multiple perspectives, it was selected as the preferred methodology and critical realism to derive definitions of truth and validity. Critical ethnography explores cultural orientations of local practice contexts and incorporates multiple understandings providing a holistic understanding of the complexity of writing practices. As human experience can only be known under particular descriptions, usually in terms of available discourses such as language, writing and rhetoric, the dominant practices emerging in response to the report acceptance event are explored, especially that of supervisor feedback practices as they causally impact on report-writing practices during the practice of report acceptance. Although critical realism does not necessarily demonstrate successful causal explanations, it does look for substantial relations within wider contexts to illuminate part-whole relationships. Therefore, an attempt is made to find representativeness or fit with situated engineering literacy practices and wider and changing literacy contexts, especially the impact of Higher Education and world Englishes as well as the expanding influence of technological and digital systems on report-writing practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Harran, Marcelle
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: English language -- Written English -- South Africa Written communication -- South Africa Literacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa Engineers -- Language -- South Africa Communication in engineering -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1476 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003357
- Description: This study describes the social practices involved in the situated activity of report writing in an engineering automotive discourse community in South Africa. In particular, the study focuses on the subjectivity of predominantly English Second Language (ESL) engineers writing reports by determining what literacy means to them and what meanings they give to dominant literacy practices in report writing, especially feedback in text production. In the South African engineering workplace, because of the diversity and complexity of language and identity issues, the appropriation of the required literacy skills tends to be multifaceted. This context is made more complex as English is the business language upon which engineering is based with engineering competence often related to English proficiency. Therefore, the study is located within the understanding that literacy is always situated within specific discoursal practices whose ideologies, beliefs, power relations, values and identities are manifested rhetorically. The basis for this critical theory of literacy is the assertion that literacy is a social practice which involves not only observable units of behaviour but values, attitudes, feelings and social relationships. As the institution’s socio-cultural context in the form of embedded historical and institutional forces impact on writer identity and writing practices or ways of doing report writing, notions of writing as a transparent and autonomous system are also challenged. As critical ethnography is concerned with multiple perspectives, it was selected as the preferred methodology and critical realism to derive definitions of truth and validity. Critical ethnography explores cultural orientations of local practice contexts and incorporates multiple understandings providing a holistic understanding of the complexity of writing practices. As human experience can only be known under particular descriptions, usually in terms of available discourses such as language, writing and rhetoric, the dominant practices emerging in response to the report acceptance event are explored, especially that of supervisor feedback practices as they causally impact on report-writing practices during the practice of report acceptance. Although critical realism does not necessarily demonstrate successful causal explanations, it does look for substantial relations within wider contexts to illuminate part-whole relationships. Therefore, an attempt is made to find representativeness or fit with situated engineering literacy practices and wider and changing literacy contexts, especially the impact of Higher Education and world Englishes as well as the expanding influence of technological and digital systems on report-writing practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
An exploratory study of responsible gambling behaviour
- Authors: Harris, Cheyne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Gambling -- Case studies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3187 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008442
- Description: In light of the findings of a pilot study by this researcher, entitled a study of the behaviour and strategies of responsible gamblers, it is vital that responsible gambling behaviour in the Eastern Cape be researched more thoroughly. The pilot study found that many ordinary gamblers experience cognitive distortions which may predispose them to varying levels of gambling problems, as well as specific biographical attributes that may determine such an outcome. The present study aims to address the limitations and recommendations put forward by the pilot study, namely its relatively small scale, and lack of generalisability as a result of sampling from a single gambling population. This project set out to assess gambling behaviour, and more so responsible gambling practices, to be able to conclude how, and in what form, responsible gambling takes place. The research was conducted USll1g a sample of one-hundred-and-thirty-seven gamblers from Hemingway's Casino in East London to develop data and establish norms on general gambling behaviour over a week, by administration of a survey questionnaire. The analysis of the data focussed on areas such as the link between gender and gambling behaviour, amount earned and amount spent on gambling, age and gambling trends as well as belief in luck and chances to win. Finally, the strategies (if any) used by gamblers to avoid problem gambling or overspending were assessed, and described by the gamblers themselves, and added to the results of the research. The results indicate that the majority of gamblers in the Eastern Cape are responsible, but many do still exhibit cognitive distortions and other behaviours that might put them at risk for problem gambling. With these results it is possible to provide basic data and information about the nature of gambling in the East London area that can be added to previous (as well as subsequent) studies, in order to build a clearer and more representative picture of the gambling situation in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Harris, Cheyne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Gambling -- Case studies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gambling -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3187 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008442
- Description: In light of the findings of a pilot study by this researcher, entitled a study of the behaviour and strategies of responsible gamblers, it is vital that responsible gambling behaviour in the Eastern Cape be researched more thoroughly. The pilot study found that many ordinary gamblers experience cognitive distortions which may predispose them to varying levels of gambling problems, as well as specific biographical attributes that may determine such an outcome. The present study aims to address the limitations and recommendations put forward by the pilot study, namely its relatively small scale, and lack of generalisability as a result of sampling from a single gambling population. This project set out to assess gambling behaviour, and more so responsible gambling practices, to be able to conclude how, and in what form, responsible gambling takes place. The research was conducted USll1g a sample of one-hundred-and-thirty-seven gamblers from Hemingway's Casino in East London to develop data and establish norms on general gambling behaviour over a week, by administration of a survey questionnaire. The analysis of the data focussed on areas such as the link between gender and gambling behaviour, amount earned and amount spent on gambling, age and gambling trends as well as belief in luck and chances to win. Finally, the strategies (if any) used by gamblers to avoid problem gambling or overspending were assessed, and described by the gamblers themselves, and added to the results of the research. The results indicate that the majority of gamblers in the Eastern Cape are responsible, but many do still exhibit cognitive distortions and other behaviours that might put them at risk for problem gambling. With these results it is possible to provide basic data and information about the nature of gambling in the East London area that can be added to previous (as well as subsequent) studies, in order to build a clearer and more representative picture of the gambling situation in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
A code of practice for practitioners in private healthcare: a privacy perspective
- Authors: Harvey, Brett D
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Medical records -- Data processing , Privacy, Right of Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9735 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/521 , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Medical records -- Data processing , Privacy, Right of Comparative studies
- Description: Whereas there are various initiatives to standardize the storage, processing and use of electronic patient information in the South African health sector, the sector is fragmented through the adoption of various approaches on national, provincial and district levels. Divergent IT systems are used in the public and private health sectors (“Recommendations of the Committee on …” 2003). Furthermore, general practitioners in some parts of the country still use paper as a primary means of documentation and storage. Nonetheless, the use of computerized systems is increasing, even in the most remote rural areas. This leads to the exposure of patient information to various threats that are perpetuated through the use of information technology. Irrespective of the level of technology adoption by practitioners in private healthcare practice, the security and privacy of patient information remains of critical importance. The disclosure of patient information whether intentional or not, can have dire consequences for a patient. In general, the requirements pertaining to the privacy of patient information are controlled and enforced through the adoption of legislation by the governing body of a country. Compared with developed nations, South Africa has limited legislation to help enforce privacy in the health sector. Conversely, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have some of the most advanced legislative frameworks when it comes to the privacy of patient information. In this dissertation, the Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and South African health sectors and the legislation they have in place to ensure the privacy of health information, will be investigated. Additionally, codes of practice and guidelines on privacy of patient information for GPs, in the afore-mentioned countries, will be investigated to form an idea as to what is needed in creating and formulating a new code of practice for the South African GP, as well as a pragmatic tool (checklist) to check adherence to privacy requirements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Harvey, Brett D
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Medical records -- Data processing , Privacy, Right of Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9735 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/521 , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Medical records -- Data processing , Privacy, Right of Comparative studies
- Description: Whereas there are various initiatives to standardize the storage, processing and use of electronic patient information in the South African health sector, the sector is fragmented through the adoption of various approaches on national, provincial and district levels. Divergent IT systems are used in the public and private health sectors (“Recommendations of the Committee on …” 2003). Furthermore, general practitioners in some parts of the country still use paper as a primary means of documentation and storage. Nonetheless, the use of computerized systems is increasing, even in the most remote rural areas. This leads to the exposure of patient information to various threats that are perpetuated through the use of information technology. Irrespective of the level of technology adoption by practitioners in private healthcare practice, the security and privacy of patient information remains of critical importance. The disclosure of patient information whether intentional or not, can have dire consequences for a patient. In general, the requirements pertaining to the privacy of patient information are controlled and enforced through the adoption of legislation by the governing body of a country. Compared with developed nations, South Africa has limited legislation to help enforce privacy in the health sector. Conversely, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have some of the most advanced legislative frameworks when it comes to the privacy of patient information. In this dissertation, the Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and South African health sectors and the legislation they have in place to ensure the privacy of health information, will be investigated. Additionally, codes of practice and guidelines on privacy of patient information for GPs, in the afore-mentioned countries, will be investigated to form an idea as to what is needed in creating and formulating a new code of practice for the South African GP, as well as a pragmatic tool (checklist) to check adherence to privacy requirements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The development and transfer of core competencies in multinational corporations : a study of three South African originated multinational corporations, compared and contrasted with a leading United States multinational
- Authors: Harvey, Neil M
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Management -- South Africa International business enterprises -- South Afrca International business enterprises -- United States Core competencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008369
- Description: The thesis studies the development and transfer of core competencies in multinational corporations. It aims to advance the general body of knowledge relating to core competencies, to have practical applicability for management practitioners and academics, to explain how three companies from South Africa became global leaders in their fields and to examine the lessons they learned about international business. Three South African originated multinationals and a US multinational company were studied. The basic methodology is a case study. The methods of research were personal interviews, telephone interviews, written questionnaires, documents, archival records and direct observations. Value chains were used to evaluate the effectiveness of methods of development and transfer and the success of transfer of core competencies. It is concluded that different and multiple methods are needed to develop and transfer core competencies. The effectiveness of methods varies by company and value chain location. There is a significant high degree of correlation between the ratings of success in transferring core competencies and the effectiveness of the methods used to transfer them. This gives substantial credibility to the information provided by the companies and highlights the importance of selecting appropriate methods. There are some variances between the research results and established literature on the development and transfer of core competencies. There are notable differences between the companies from South Africa and the US multinational on the effectiveness of methods used to develop and transfer core competencies. There are also areas where all the companies are in accord. "Roadmaps" covering the effectiveness of methods for developing and transferring core competencies in different locations in a value chain are presented. Practical examples of the companies' actions relating to acquisitions and post-acquisition integration, their experiences in different countries, challenges they face, the methods used to assess transfer, avoid pitfalls and improve transfer, and other issues are also provided.The success of the multinationals from South Africa is explained by a combination of history, competitive factor conditions, management practices, attributes and leadership. The conclusions of the thesis are followed by recommendations on how to improve the management, development and transfer of core competencies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Harvey, Neil M
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Management -- South Africa International business enterprises -- South Afrca International business enterprises -- United States Core competencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008369
- Description: The thesis studies the development and transfer of core competencies in multinational corporations. It aims to advance the general body of knowledge relating to core competencies, to have practical applicability for management practitioners and academics, to explain how three companies from South Africa became global leaders in their fields and to examine the lessons they learned about international business. Three South African originated multinationals and a US multinational company were studied. The basic methodology is a case study. The methods of research were personal interviews, telephone interviews, written questionnaires, documents, archival records and direct observations. Value chains were used to evaluate the effectiveness of methods of development and transfer and the success of transfer of core competencies. It is concluded that different and multiple methods are needed to develop and transfer core competencies. The effectiveness of methods varies by company and value chain location. There is a significant high degree of correlation between the ratings of success in transferring core competencies and the effectiveness of the methods used to transfer them. This gives substantial credibility to the information provided by the companies and highlights the importance of selecting appropriate methods. There are some variances between the research results and established literature on the development and transfer of core competencies. There are notable differences between the companies from South Africa and the US multinational on the effectiveness of methods used to develop and transfer core competencies. There are also areas where all the companies are in accord. "Roadmaps" covering the effectiveness of methods for developing and transferring core competencies in different locations in a value chain are presented. Practical examples of the companies' actions relating to acquisitions and post-acquisition integration, their experiences in different countries, challenges they face, the methods used to assess transfer, avoid pitfalls and improve transfer, and other issues are also provided.The success of the multinationals from South Africa is explained by a combination of history, competitive factor conditions, management practices, attributes and leadership. The conclusions of the thesis are followed by recommendations on how to improve the management, development and transfer of core competencies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Characterization of WC-VC-Co and WC-VC-TiC-Co hardmetals
- Authors: Hashe, Nobom Gretta
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Carbides , Hard materials
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/522 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011723 , Carbides , Hard materials
- Description: This thesis contains the results of a study focused on cubic carbide and carbonitride grain growth retardation in hardmetals. Large additions of VC, or VC and TiC, or (W,V)C were made to the WC-Co hardmetal, which was then sintered in vacuum or nitrogen. The effectiveness of Ti as the grain growth inhibitor, and the influence of nitrogen sintering on grain coarsening were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractrometry (XRD) and atom probe field ion microscope (APFIM). Analysis of vacuum-sintered WC-VC-Co revealed that the cubic carbide grains have a core-rim structure. Ti was found to be a core-rim inhibitor in vacuum-sintered WCVC- TiC-Co. The average cubic carbide grain size distribution for the vacuumsintered materials was narrowed in the Ti-containing hardmetal. The nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-TiC-Co consisted of two phases of cubic carbonitride, one with high Ti-content and the other with high (W,V)-content. The surface region of the nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-TiC-Co was covered with a cubic carbonitride phase. Similar phenomena was observed in nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-Co where two types of carbonitrides were found, those with high V-content and the others with low Vcontent. A gradient zone, consisting of fine WC grains in a Co-rich binder and free from cubic carbonitride grains, was created in the surface region. The nitrogensintered materials consisted of a narrow grain size distribution. The use of (W,V)C as a starting powder affected the mechanical properties of the material with the WC-(W,V)C-Co material being the hardest of those produced in this study. Addition of (W,V)C powder to WC-Co was shown to be the most effective way to limit the cubic carbide grain size during sintering and produce a hard material. The cubic carbide grain size in the material produced this way was the smallest of all studied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hashe, Nobom Gretta
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Carbides , Hard materials
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/522 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011723 , Carbides , Hard materials
- Description: This thesis contains the results of a study focused on cubic carbide and carbonitride grain growth retardation in hardmetals. Large additions of VC, or VC and TiC, or (W,V)C were made to the WC-Co hardmetal, which was then sintered in vacuum or nitrogen. The effectiveness of Ti as the grain growth inhibitor, and the influence of nitrogen sintering on grain coarsening were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractrometry (XRD) and atom probe field ion microscope (APFIM). Analysis of vacuum-sintered WC-VC-Co revealed that the cubic carbide grains have a core-rim structure. Ti was found to be a core-rim inhibitor in vacuum-sintered WCVC- TiC-Co. The average cubic carbide grain size distribution for the vacuumsintered materials was narrowed in the Ti-containing hardmetal. The nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-TiC-Co consisted of two phases of cubic carbonitride, one with high Ti-content and the other with high (W,V)-content. The surface region of the nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-TiC-Co was covered with a cubic carbonitride phase. Similar phenomena was observed in nitrogen-sintered WC-VC-Co where two types of carbonitrides were found, those with high V-content and the others with low Vcontent. A gradient zone, consisting of fine WC grains in a Co-rich binder and free from cubic carbonitride grains, was created in the surface region. The nitrogensintered materials consisted of a narrow grain size distribution. The use of (W,V)C as a starting powder affected the mechanical properties of the material with the WC-(W,V)C-Co material being the hardest of those produced in this study. Addition of (W,V)C powder to WC-Co was shown to be the most effective way to limit the cubic carbide grain size during sintering and produce a hard material. The cubic carbide grain size in the material produced this way was the smallest of all studied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Physical characteristics as performance indicators in surfing
- Hayselden, Kirsten Jacqui-Anne
- Authors: Hayselden, Kirsten Jacqui-Anne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Surfing -- South Africa , Athletic ability , Physical fitness -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10097 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/662 , Surfing -- South Africa , Athletic ability , Physical fitness -- Testing
- Description: The aim of this study was to identify indictors of performance in surfing. Therefore the objectives of the study were to determine the following: {u100085} Anthropometric measures such as: height, weight, body proportions; {u100085} Flexibility measures such as: back extension, hip flexion, ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion; {u100085} Core stability; {u100085} Dynamic balance; {u100085} Explosive leg power; {u100085} Which of the physical characteristics measured discriminate between elite and non-elite surfers. To achieve the aim and objectives of this study, the literature pertaining to excellence in surfing, and the theory surrounding talent identification and the many factors that can contribute to success in sport, were reviewed. Potential criteria important for performance in surfing were identified and appropriate tests to assess these criteria were selected. An ex post facto quasi experimental design was used to assess which of the identified criteria best discriminated between elite and non-elite surfboard riders. The test battery included a personal information questionnaire and the assessment of: anthropometric variables, flexibility, core stability, dynamic balance and explosive leg power. These abovementioned physical characteristics were identified from the literature as the factors most important to success in surfing. Fifty five (55) surfers were assessed of which 28 were elite surfers and 27 were non-elite surfers. The results obtained from the evaluation of the samples were compared in terms of their descriptive statistics and the differences tested for statistical and practical significance. The variables of height, age started surfing, core stability, dynamic balance, number of days surfed per week and number of hours surfed per day were found to most discriminate between the elite and non-elite participants. Finally, a stepwise discriminant analysis was used to determine classification functions that could be used for future prediction purposes. The variables included in the discriminant analyses included height, age started surfing, number of years surfing, core stability and dynamic balance. To verify the prediction model a jack-knife procedure was performed. The results from the jack-knife procedure indicated that 85.5 perecent of the entire sample was correctly classified while 92.9 percent of the elite sample and 77.8 percent of the non-elite sample were correctly classified. Thus, the discriminant functions obtained can be used for predictive purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hayselden, Kirsten Jacqui-Anne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Surfing -- South Africa , Athletic ability , Physical fitness -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10097 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/662 , Surfing -- South Africa , Athletic ability , Physical fitness -- Testing
- Description: The aim of this study was to identify indictors of performance in surfing. Therefore the objectives of the study were to determine the following: {u100085} Anthropometric measures such as: height, weight, body proportions; {u100085} Flexibility measures such as: back extension, hip flexion, ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion; {u100085} Core stability; {u100085} Dynamic balance; {u100085} Explosive leg power; {u100085} Which of the physical characteristics measured discriminate between elite and non-elite surfers. To achieve the aim and objectives of this study, the literature pertaining to excellence in surfing, and the theory surrounding talent identification and the many factors that can contribute to success in sport, were reviewed. Potential criteria important for performance in surfing were identified and appropriate tests to assess these criteria were selected. An ex post facto quasi experimental design was used to assess which of the identified criteria best discriminated between elite and non-elite surfboard riders. The test battery included a personal information questionnaire and the assessment of: anthropometric variables, flexibility, core stability, dynamic balance and explosive leg power. These abovementioned physical characteristics were identified from the literature as the factors most important to success in surfing. Fifty five (55) surfers were assessed of which 28 were elite surfers and 27 were non-elite surfers. The results obtained from the evaluation of the samples were compared in terms of their descriptive statistics and the differences tested for statistical and practical significance. The variables of height, age started surfing, core stability, dynamic balance, number of days surfed per week and number of hours surfed per day were found to most discriminate between the elite and non-elite participants. Finally, a stepwise discriminant analysis was used to determine classification functions that could be used for future prediction purposes. The variables included in the discriminant analyses included height, age started surfing, number of years surfing, core stability and dynamic balance. To verify the prediction model a jack-knife procedure was performed. The results from the jack-knife procedure indicated that 85.5 perecent of the entire sample was correctly classified while 92.9 percent of the elite sample and 77.8 percent of the non-elite sample were correctly classified. Thus, the discriminant functions obtained can be used for predictive purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The reintroduction of large carnivores to the Eastern Cape, South Africa: an assessment
- Hayward, M W, Kerley, Graham I H, Adendorff, John, Moolman, Lucius C, O'Brien, John, Sholto-Douglas, Angus, Bissett, Charlene, Bean, Peter, Fogarty, Alan, Howarth, Dale, Slater, Richard
- Authors: Hayward, M W , Kerley, Graham I H , Adendorff, John , Moolman, Lucius C , O'Brien, John , Sholto-Douglas, Angus , Bissett, Charlene , Bean, Peter , Fogarty, Alan , Howarth, Dale , Slater, Richard
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6900 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011662 , http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0030605307001767
- Description: Recently, conservation estate in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province has increased 10-fold resulting in large predators being increasingly reintroduced to restore ecological integrity and maximize tourism. We describe the reintroductions of large carnivores (>10 kg) that have occurred in the Eastern Cape and use various criteria to assess their success. Lion Panthera leo reintroduction has been highly successful with a population of 56 currently extant in the region and problems of overpopulation arising. The African wild dog Lycaon pictus population has increased to 24 from a founder population of 11. Preliminary results for spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta also indicate success. Wild populations of leopards Panthera pardus exist on several reserves and have been supplemented by translocated individuals, although deaths of known individuals have occurred and no estimate of reproduction is available. Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus reintroduction has also been less successful with 36 individuals reintroduced and 23 cubs being born but only 41 individuals surviving in 2005. Criteria for assessing the success of reintroductions of species that naturally occur in low densities, such as top predators, generally have limited value. Carrying capacity for large predators is unknown and continued monitoring and intensive management will be necessary in enclosed, and possibly all, conservation areas in the Eastern Cape to ensure conservation success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hayward, M W , Kerley, Graham I H , Adendorff, John , Moolman, Lucius C , O'Brien, John , Sholto-Douglas, Angus , Bissett, Charlene , Bean, Peter , Fogarty, Alan , Howarth, Dale , Slater, Richard
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6900 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011662 , http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0030605307001767
- Description: Recently, conservation estate in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province has increased 10-fold resulting in large predators being increasingly reintroduced to restore ecological integrity and maximize tourism. We describe the reintroductions of large carnivores (>10 kg) that have occurred in the Eastern Cape and use various criteria to assess their success. Lion Panthera leo reintroduction has been highly successful with a population of 56 currently extant in the region and problems of overpopulation arising. The African wild dog Lycaon pictus population has increased to 24 from a founder population of 11. Preliminary results for spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta also indicate success. Wild populations of leopards Panthera pardus exist on several reserves and have been supplemented by translocated individuals, although deaths of known individuals have occurred and no estimate of reproduction is available. Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus reintroduction has also been less successful with 36 individuals reintroduced and 23 cubs being born but only 41 individuals surviving in 2005. Criteria for assessing the success of reintroductions of species that naturally occur in low densities, such as top predators, generally have limited value. Carrying capacity for large predators is unknown and continued monitoring and intensive management will be necessary in enclosed, and possibly all, conservation areas in the Eastern Cape to ensure conservation success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
On the microstructure and physical properties of hot pressed (Hf, Ti) C
- Authors: Heiligers, Christiané
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Transition metal carbides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/523 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011722 , Transition metal carbides
- Description: The microstructure and physical properties of hot pressed (Hf, Ti) C have been investigated with the aim of producing a cutting tool material with similar hardness to that of WC-Co and TiC-based cermets. Sintered samples were hot pressed from HfC0.7 and TiC0.9 powders using powder metallurgical techniques and the processing cycle was optimized for this system. Ni was used as a binder in selected samples and C black was added to compensate for sub-stoichiometry and to aid in the reduction of oxides formed during milling. Microstructural analyses were performed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and the composition was determined from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS). The physical properties measured are density and Vickers hardness, and the indentation fracture toughness was determined using the Shetty formula. The fundamental interactions between HfC, TiC and Ni during hot pressing were investigated and the results obtained used to explain the microstructure that develops in samples made from powder mixtures. The interactions studied are the inter-diffusion of HfC and TiC through the solid state, and the dissolution and re-precipitation rate of the carbides in a liquid Ni binder. EDS analysis revealed that the rate at which Ti diffuses into HfC is higher than the rate at which Hf diffuses into TiC. Upper limits to the diffusion coefficients for these processes are determined and show that solid solution carbides will form from HfC + TiC powder mixtures at 2000 ºC in 1 hour if the average powder particle size is less than 5 μm. The diffusion rates decrease with a decrease in hot pressing temperature but mass transport between the phases can be enhanced by addition of a metallic binder. TEM and EDS analysis shows that Ni wets TiC more efficiently than HfC and that the solubility of TiC in Ni is also higher than that of HfC. The grain size of the carbide phases increases with an increase in the rate at which they dissolve into and re-precipitate from the liquid binder. The crystal structure of the binder phase depends on the concentration of Ti and Hf that remain in the binder after cooling and the carbide phase in which the binder is embedded. Analysis of TEM electron diffraction patterns show that the binder phase consists of cubic solid solutions as well as intermetallic and cubic phases in which atomic ordering is observed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Heiligers, Christiané
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Transition metal carbides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/523 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011722 , Transition metal carbides
- Description: The microstructure and physical properties of hot pressed (Hf, Ti) C have been investigated with the aim of producing a cutting tool material with similar hardness to that of WC-Co and TiC-based cermets. Sintered samples were hot pressed from HfC0.7 and TiC0.9 powders using powder metallurgical techniques and the processing cycle was optimized for this system. Ni was used as a binder in selected samples and C black was added to compensate for sub-stoichiometry and to aid in the reduction of oxides formed during milling. Microstructural analyses were performed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and the composition was determined from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS). The physical properties measured are density and Vickers hardness, and the indentation fracture toughness was determined using the Shetty formula. The fundamental interactions between HfC, TiC and Ni during hot pressing were investigated and the results obtained used to explain the microstructure that develops in samples made from powder mixtures. The interactions studied are the inter-diffusion of HfC and TiC through the solid state, and the dissolution and re-precipitation rate of the carbides in a liquid Ni binder. EDS analysis revealed that the rate at which Ti diffuses into HfC is higher than the rate at which Hf diffuses into TiC. Upper limits to the diffusion coefficients for these processes are determined and show that solid solution carbides will form from HfC + TiC powder mixtures at 2000 ºC in 1 hour if the average powder particle size is less than 5 μm. The diffusion rates decrease with a decrease in hot pressing temperature but mass transport between the phases can be enhanced by addition of a metallic binder. TEM and EDS analysis shows that Ni wets TiC more efficiently than HfC and that the solubility of TiC in Ni is also higher than that of HfC. The grain size of the carbide phases increases with an increase in the rate at which they dissolve into and re-precipitate from the liquid binder. The crystal structure of the binder phase depends on the concentration of Ti and Hf that remain in the binder after cooling and the carbide phase in which the binder is embedded. Analysis of TEM electron diffraction patterns show that the binder phase consists of cubic solid solutions as well as intermetallic and cubic phases in which atomic ordering is observed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
South African marxist state theory: a critical overview
- Authors: Helliker, Kirk D
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144778 , vital:38378 , DOI: 10.1080/02589348808704885
- Description: The article provides a critical analysis of Marxist work on the South African state. It first examines the early Poulantzian‐State Derivationist debate on the relation between state and society, and then discusses the ‘new directions’ which focus on the state itself. The sensitivity of the ‘new directions’ to the traditional Weberian concern about state bureaucracy is important for enriching Marxist theory. But the article concludes by suggesting that a comprehensive dialectical Marxist approach to the South African state still awaits development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Helliker, Kirk D
- Date: 2007
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144778 , vital:38378 , DOI: 10.1080/02589348808704885
- Description: The article provides a critical analysis of Marxist work on the South African state. It first examines the early Poulantzian‐State Derivationist debate on the relation between state and society, and then discusses the ‘new directions’ which focus on the state itself. The sensitivity of the ‘new directions’ to the traditional Weberian concern about state bureaucracy is important for enriching Marxist theory. But the article concludes by suggesting that a comprehensive dialectical Marxist approach to the South African state still awaits development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
A sociological analysis of intermediary non-governmental organizations and land reform in contemporary Zimbabwe
- Authors: Helliker, Kirk David
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe Land reform -- Zimbabwe Land use -- Zimbabwe Sociology -- Philosophy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3303 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003091
- Description: The thesis offers an original sociological understanding of intermediary Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the modern world. This is pursued through a study of NGOs and land reform in contemporary Zimbabwe. The prevailing literature on NGOs is marked by a sociological behaviourism that analyses NGOs in terms of external relations and the object-subject dualism. This behaviourism has both ‘structuralist’ and ‘empiricist’ trends that lead to instrumentalist and functionalist forms of argumentation. The thesis details an alternative conceptual corpus that draws upon the epistemological and theoretical insights of Marx and Weber. The epistemological reasoning of Marx involves processes of deconstruction and reconstruction. This entails conceptualizing NGOs as social forms that embody contradictory relations and, for analytical purposes, the thesis privileges the contradiction between ‘the global’ and ‘the local’. In this regard, it speaks about processes of ‘glocalization’ and ‘glocal modernities’ in which NGOs become immersed. The social field of NGOs is marked by ambiguities and tensions, and NGOs seek to ‘negotiate’ and manoeuvre their way through this field by a variety of organizational practices. Understanding these practices necessitates studying NGOs ‘from within’ and drawing specifically on Weber’s notion of ‘meaning’. These practices often entail activities that stabilize and simplify the world and work of NGOs, and this involves NGOs in prioritizing their own organizational sustainability. In handling the tension between ‘the global’ and ‘the local’, NGOs also tend to privilege global trajectories over local initiatives. The thesis illustrates these points in relation to the work of intermediary NGOs in Zimbabwe over the past ten years. Since the year 2000, a radical restructuring of agrarian relations has occurred, and this has been based upon the massive redistribution of land. In this respect, local empowering initiatives have dramatically asserted themselves against globalizing trajectories. These changes have posed serious challenges to ‘land’ NGOs, that is, NGOs involved in land reform either as advocates for reform or as rural development NGOs. The thesis shows how a range of diverse ‘land’ NGOs has ‘handled’ the heightened contradictions in their social field in ways that maintain their organizational coherence and integrity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Helliker, Kirk David
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe Land reform -- Zimbabwe Land use -- Zimbabwe Sociology -- Philosophy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3303 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003091
- Description: The thesis offers an original sociological understanding of intermediary Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the modern world. This is pursued through a study of NGOs and land reform in contemporary Zimbabwe. The prevailing literature on NGOs is marked by a sociological behaviourism that analyses NGOs in terms of external relations and the object-subject dualism. This behaviourism has both ‘structuralist’ and ‘empiricist’ trends that lead to instrumentalist and functionalist forms of argumentation. The thesis details an alternative conceptual corpus that draws upon the epistemological and theoretical insights of Marx and Weber. The epistemological reasoning of Marx involves processes of deconstruction and reconstruction. This entails conceptualizing NGOs as social forms that embody contradictory relations and, for analytical purposes, the thesis privileges the contradiction between ‘the global’ and ‘the local’. In this regard, it speaks about processes of ‘glocalization’ and ‘glocal modernities’ in which NGOs become immersed. The social field of NGOs is marked by ambiguities and tensions, and NGOs seek to ‘negotiate’ and manoeuvre their way through this field by a variety of organizational practices. Understanding these practices necessitates studying NGOs ‘from within’ and drawing specifically on Weber’s notion of ‘meaning’. These practices often entail activities that stabilize and simplify the world and work of NGOs, and this involves NGOs in prioritizing their own organizational sustainability. In handling the tension between ‘the global’ and ‘the local’, NGOs also tend to privilege global trajectories over local initiatives. The thesis illustrates these points in relation to the work of intermediary NGOs in Zimbabwe over the past ten years. Since the year 2000, a radical restructuring of agrarian relations has occurred, and this has been based upon the massive redistribution of land. In this respect, local empowering initiatives have dramatically asserted themselves against globalizing trajectories. These changes have posed serious challenges to ‘land’ NGOs, that is, NGOs involved in land reform either as advocates for reform or as rural development NGOs. The thesis shows how a range of diverse ‘land’ NGOs has ‘handled’ the heightened contradictions in their social field in ways that maintain their organizational coherence and integrity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The impact of the absence of a total productive maintenance (TPM) program at a plastic painting plant
- Authors: Hempel, Calvern Anthony
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Plant maintenance -- Management , Total productive maintenance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/524 , Plant maintenance -- Management , Total productive maintenance -- South Africa
- Description: This research was concerned with investigating “the absence of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)” at a plastic painting plant. TPM is a combination of operations and maintenance activities and is performed by operators under their own authority and is called “autonomous maintenances”. The author has tested the degree of implementation of TPM by using a sevenstep TPM implementation model this highlighted an absence of TPM in the organisation investigated. TPM is a relatively new concept in the South African automotive industry and has not been fully accepted by management as a solution to the maintenance problems in the organisation. Due to a long implementation period and the difficulty in measuring the benefits of the TPM program for the organisation TPM tends not to be implemented by companies. The research studies several maintenance philosophies each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The benefits that arise from the implementation of an effective TPM philosophy were explored. The development of an effective improved model for the implementation of TPM was investigated. Maintenance engineers and managers in any organisation can use this model to implement an effective TPM program. The seven-step TPM implementation model formed the basis for the compilation of a questionnaire. A survey was conducted to determine if an absence of TPM existed in a plastic painting plant. The results from the survey were drawn up and recommendations to further develop a model for the implementation of TPM was put forward.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hempel, Calvern Anthony
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Plant maintenance -- Management , Total productive maintenance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/524 , Plant maintenance -- Management , Total productive maintenance -- South Africa
- Description: This research was concerned with investigating “the absence of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)” at a plastic painting plant. TPM is a combination of operations and maintenance activities and is performed by operators under their own authority and is called “autonomous maintenances”. The author has tested the degree of implementation of TPM by using a sevenstep TPM implementation model this highlighted an absence of TPM in the organisation investigated. TPM is a relatively new concept in the South African automotive industry and has not been fully accepted by management as a solution to the maintenance problems in the organisation. Due to a long implementation period and the difficulty in measuring the benefits of the TPM program for the organisation TPM tends not to be implemented by companies. The research studies several maintenance philosophies each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The benefits that arise from the implementation of an effective TPM philosophy were explored. The development of an effective improved model for the implementation of TPM was investigated. Maintenance engineers and managers in any organisation can use this model to implement an effective TPM program. The seven-step TPM implementation model formed the basis for the compilation of a questionnaire. A survey was conducted to determine if an absence of TPM existed in a plastic painting plant. The results from the survey were drawn up and recommendations to further develop a model for the implementation of TPM was put forward.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
A case study : tracing the development of emergent literacy in a Grade R class
- Authors: Hodgskiss, Jennifer Adelé
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Literacy -- Study and teaching (Preschool) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Literacy -- Social Aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language acquisition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003324
- Description: The introduction of the new curriculum in South Africa has introduced a new approach to literacy in the early years of the Foundation Phase (Grade R – 1), which has a strong emphasis on emergent literacy. The National Curriculum Statement (NCS) for English – Home Language describes this approach as balanced “because it begins with children’s emergent literacy, it involves them in reading real books and writing for genuine purposes, and it gives attention to phonics”. For many teachers in South Africa, this means moving away from the “reading readiness approach” which held that children were not ready to read and write until they were able to perform sub-skills such as auditory discrimination and visual discrimination, and had developed their fine and large motor skills to a certain level. The purpose of this study was to trace and document children’s emergent literacy development in a Grade R class over a period of two months. More specifically, the intention was to investigate whether it was possible for trained, motivated teachers who have access to everyday resources in otherwise ordinary South African schools, to achieve the Assessment Standards set out in the NCS for Home Language in Grade R. In this school-based case study, the sample consisted of 4 children from 1 preschool in Queenstown, South Africa. The participants were selected according to gender and language because these appear to be significant factors in literacy development. The interpretive approach was used to collect and analyse data. Data were gathered from three main sources; (1) a research journal, (2) semi-structured interviews with the parents of the 4 participants, and (3) samples of the participants’ spontaneous writing. These were then triangulated to give credibility, objectivity and validity to the interpretation of the data. The findings revealed that: (1) Social class, language and to a lesser extent gender emerged as factors which impacted significantly on the children’s literacy development, resulting in some children progressing more quickly than others. In South Africa, language is an indicator of social class. The English-speaking children had a socioeconomic and language advantage which enabled them to make considerable strides in their literacy development. In contrast, the Xhosa-speaking children were disadvantaged by their socioeconomic and language circumstances, which made their literacy progress much slower. (2) The disparities between the English and Xhosa-speaking children in terms of the stability and structure of their families, had a considerable impact on their literacy performance. (3) Finally, teachers in English medium classes need to be aware of these factors. They need to design strategies and interventions to help those children who are learning in their additional language to achieve at similar levels to their English-speaking peers. If this is not done, the gap between the literacy achievements of the English-speakers and speakers of other languages will get wider and wider as time goes by.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hodgskiss, Jennifer Adelé
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Literacy -- Study and teaching (Preschool) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Literacy -- Social Aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language acquisition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003324
- Description: The introduction of the new curriculum in South Africa has introduced a new approach to literacy in the early years of the Foundation Phase (Grade R – 1), which has a strong emphasis on emergent literacy. The National Curriculum Statement (NCS) for English – Home Language describes this approach as balanced “because it begins with children’s emergent literacy, it involves them in reading real books and writing for genuine purposes, and it gives attention to phonics”. For many teachers in South Africa, this means moving away from the “reading readiness approach” which held that children were not ready to read and write until they were able to perform sub-skills such as auditory discrimination and visual discrimination, and had developed their fine and large motor skills to a certain level. The purpose of this study was to trace and document children’s emergent literacy development in a Grade R class over a period of two months. More specifically, the intention was to investigate whether it was possible for trained, motivated teachers who have access to everyday resources in otherwise ordinary South African schools, to achieve the Assessment Standards set out in the NCS for Home Language in Grade R. In this school-based case study, the sample consisted of 4 children from 1 preschool in Queenstown, South Africa. The participants were selected according to gender and language because these appear to be significant factors in literacy development. The interpretive approach was used to collect and analyse data. Data were gathered from three main sources; (1) a research journal, (2) semi-structured interviews with the parents of the 4 participants, and (3) samples of the participants’ spontaneous writing. These were then triangulated to give credibility, objectivity and validity to the interpretation of the data. The findings revealed that: (1) Social class, language and to a lesser extent gender emerged as factors which impacted significantly on the children’s literacy development, resulting in some children progressing more quickly than others. In South Africa, language is an indicator of social class. The English-speaking children had a socioeconomic and language advantage which enabled them to make considerable strides in their literacy development. In contrast, the Xhosa-speaking children were disadvantaged by their socioeconomic and language circumstances, which made their literacy progress much slower. (2) The disparities between the English and Xhosa-speaking children in terms of the stability and structure of their families, had a considerable impact on their literacy performance. (3) Finally, teachers in English medium classes need to be aware of these factors. They need to design strategies and interventions to help those children who are learning in their additional language to achieve at similar levels to their English-speaking peers. If this is not done, the gap between the literacy achievements of the English-speakers and speakers of other languages will get wider and wider as time goes by.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Reviewing the use of environmental audits for environmental learning in school contexts: a case study of environmental auditing processes within a professional development course
- Authors: Hoffmann, Patricia Anne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Environmental auditing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Sustainable development -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Case studies Professional education -- South Africa -- Case studies Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Case studies Educational change -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1746 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003630
- Description: This case study focuses on the use of environmental audits for learning, by teachers participating in the Schools and Sustainability professional development course in Durban, South Africa. It reviews ways in which audits were choreographed and used for lessons within school contexts. It explores ways in which audits shaped meaning-making interactions and environmental learning processes. This is an interpretive case study, characterized by a moderate realist perspective. Data were generated through interviews with teachers, field observations, photographs, document analysis, and group interviews with learners. Data were analyzed using the general comparative method. The research takes place in the context of educational transformation in South Africa. Some of the challenges accompanying the shift to Outcomes Based Education seem to be associated with naïve interpretations of constructivism and a view of reality as socially constructed and relative. This seems to have influenced ways in which audits are being undertaken in school contexts. This study argues that a realist orientation to auditing may be a more useful process for engaging with the world and enhancing the way learners perceive and respond to environmental risk. Ideas about reality-congruence and the interacting processes of involvement and detachment are of central importance in understanding processes of knowledge construction and meaning making in this study. The study draws on the work of Elias (1987) and Latour (1999) to shed light on the significance of auditing processes in which a close engagement with reality, coupled with a measure of detachment, can lead to the construction of a more reality-congruent account and a more realistic assessment of the environmental issue in focus. Key findings of the study suggest that the effectiveness of environmental auditing as a pedagogical process was influenced by the teachers’ intentions, knowledge and skills, choreography of the audit, nature of the teaching and learning interactions, and ways in which teachers and learners engaged with the findings. The study recommends that auditing activities should be carefully structured and mediated by teachers to be meaningful and to enable learners to identify environmental issues, gather data, engage in critical reflection and deliberate appropriate responses for social and environmental transformation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hoffmann, Patricia Anne
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Environmental auditing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Sustainable development -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Case studies Professional education -- South Africa -- Case studies Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Case studies Educational change -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1746 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003630
- Description: This case study focuses on the use of environmental audits for learning, by teachers participating in the Schools and Sustainability professional development course in Durban, South Africa. It reviews ways in which audits were choreographed and used for lessons within school contexts. It explores ways in which audits shaped meaning-making interactions and environmental learning processes. This is an interpretive case study, characterized by a moderate realist perspective. Data were generated through interviews with teachers, field observations, photographs, document analysis, and group interviews with learners. Data were analyzed using the general comparative method. The research takes place in the context of educational transformation in South Africa. Some of the challenges accompanying the shift to Outcomes Based Education seem to be associated with naïve interpretations of constructivism and a view of reality as socially constructed and relative. This seems to have influenced ways in which audits are being undertaken in school contexts. This study argues that a realist orientation to auditing may be a more useful process for engaging with the world and enhancing the way learners perceive and respond to environmental risk. Ideas about reality-congruence and the interacting processes of involvement and detachment are of central importance in understanding processes of knowledge construction and meaning making in this study. The study draws on the work of Elias (1987) and Latour (1999) to shed light on the significance of auditing processes in which a close engagement with reality, coupled with a measure of detachment, can lead to the construction of a more reality-congruent account and a more realistic assessment of the environmental issue in focus. Key findings of the study suggest that the effectiveness of environmental auditing as a pedagogical process was influenced by the teachers’ intentions, knowledge and skills, choreography of the audit, nature of the teaching and learning interactions, and ways in which teachers and learners engaged with the findings. The study recommends that auditing activities should be carefully structured and mediated by teachers to be meaningful and to enable learners to identify environmental issues, gather data, engage in critical reflection and deliberate appropriate responses for social and environmental transformation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The politics of planning in Eastern Cape local government: a case study of Ngqushwa and Buffalo City, 1998-2004
- Authors: Hollands, Glenn Delroy
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Buffalo City (South Africa) Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Political planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History -- 20th century Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008199
- Description: This thesis examines the political implications of the integrated development planning process embarked upon by South African municipalities in the period 1998-2004. Through the use of case study methodology that focuses on the Eastern Cape municipalities of Buffalo City and Ngqushwa, the conventions of municipal planning are examined. This inquiry into municipal planning draws upon official government documents and reports and publications from the nongovernment sector. The thesis is particularly focused on the claims made in policy documents and related secondary sources and compares these to more critical reports and publication as well as the author's personal experience of the integrated development planning process. Of key interest is the possibility that planning serves political interests and the material needs of an emerging municipal elite and that this is seldom acknowledged in official planning documentation or government sanctioned publications on the topic. The primary findings of the thesis are as follows: • That the 'reason' of expert policy formulations that accompanied integrated development planning has weakened political economy as a prism of understanding and separated itself from the institutional reality of municipal government • That the dominant critique of planning and other post-apartheid municipal policy is concerned with the triumph of neoliberalism but this critique, while valid, does not fully explain successive policy failures especially in the setting of Eastern Cape local government • That function of policy and its relationship to both the state and civil society is usually understood only in the most obvious sense and not as an instrument for wielding political power • That planning still derives much of its influence from its claim to technical rationality and that this underpinned the 'authority' of the integrated development planning project in South Africa and reinforced its power to make communities governable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Hollands, Glenn Delroy
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Buffalo City (South Africa) Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Political planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History -- 20th century Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008199
- Description: This thesis examines the political implications of the integrated development planning process embarked upon by South African municipalities in the period 1998-2004. Through the use of case study methodology that focuses on the Eastern Cape municipalities of Buffalo City and Ngqushwa, the conventions of municipal planning are examined. This inquiry into municipal planning draws upon official government documents and reports and publications from the nongovernment sector. The thesis is particularly focused on the claims made in policy documents and related secondary sources and compares these to more critical reports and publication as well as the author's personal experience of the integrated development planning process. Of key interest is the possibility that planning serves political interests and the material needs of an emerging municipal elite and that this is seldom acknowledged in official planning documentation or government sanctioned publications on the topic. The primary findings of the thesis are as follows: • That the 'reason' of expert policy formulations that accompanied integrated development planning has weakened political economy as a prism of understanding and separated itself from the institutional reality of municipal government • That the dominant critique of planning and other post-apartheid municipal policy is concerned with the triumph of neoliberalism but this critique, while valid, does not fully explain successive policy failures especially in the setting of Eastern Cape local government • That function of policy and its relationship to both the state and civil society is usually understood only in the most obvious sense and not as an instrument for wielding political power • That planning still derives much of its influence from its claim to technical rationality and that this underpinned the 'authority' of the integrated development planning project in South Africa and reinforced its power to make communities governable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007