Investigating the use of Arbuscular Mycorrhizas and Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria to improve the drought tolerance of maize (Zea mays L.)
- Authors: Moore, Nicolle Maureen
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54587 , vital:26591
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a direct staple food crop in Africa and remains an essential component of global food security, with maize crops accounting for over 60% of the total harvested area of annual food crops. Stress caused by drought and high soil salinity limits crop growth and productivity more than any other single environmental factor, with grain yield reductions up to 76% depending on the severity of the drought and the plant growth stage. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and Plant Growth Promotion Rhizobacteria (PGPR) have previously been shown to improve tolerance of plants to drought stress through a number of chemical and physiological processes. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobacteria adapted to drought and saline conditions and possessing plant growth promoting (PGP) traits were able to stimulate plant growth responses when applied to Zea mays seeds growing under greenhouse conditions Bacterial isolates selected were tolerant to concentrations of NaCl up to 600 mM and maintained 50% growth at low water potentials (-1.44 MPa). They were positive for Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilisation and secretion of siderophores. Bacterial isolates showing plant growth promoting potential were identified using 16S rDNA gene sequencing as Achromobacter xylosoxidans strains A8 and C54 and Klebsiella oxytoca strain M1. Mixed inoculum was prepared from indigenous communities of mycorrhizas in soils sampled from the Cerebos Salt Pan and the Kalahari Desert. Mycorrhizal diversity was investigated using 454-Pyrosequencing which revealed that the community composition was dominated by species in the Ambispora, Glomus and Paraglomus genera with a rare component represented by species in the Redeckera, Archaeospora and Geosiphon genera. Microscopic examination of plant roots at the end of the trial revealed the presence of diagnostic mycorrhizal structures within the root cells, confirming that colonization was successful. Plant growth response to microbial inoculation was assessed by monitoring changes in plant photosynthetic capacity over the duration of a 7 week pot trial. A significant difference in photosynthetic and biomass data was observed between drought and well-watered groups but no mycorrhizal or bacterial treatment effect was evident within the groups, despite the high levels of colonization by mycorrhizas. These results suggest that the beneficial effects of mycorrhizal colonization may be primarily attributed to improved nutrient and mineral uptake in conditions where nutrients are limiting, resulting in improved growth. The improved growth may then have secondary effects on the plant‟s ability to withstand drought. Having controlled for nutrient deficiency, it was not evident in this study that mycorrhizal fungi were able to stimulate a change in plant physiology and confer drought tolerance under the conditions imposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Moore, Nicolle Maureen
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54587 , vital:26591
- Description: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a direct staple food crop in Africa and remains an essential component of global food security, with maize crops accounting for over 60% of the total harvested area of annual food crops. Stress caused by drought and high soil salinity limits crop growth and productivity more than any other single environmental factor, with grain yield reductions up to 76% depending on the severity of the drought and the plant growth stage. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and Plant Growth Promotion Rhizobacteria (PGPR) have previously been shown to improve tolerance of plants to drought stress through a number of chemical and physiological processes. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobacteria adapted to drought and saline conditions and possessing plant growth promoting (PGP) traits were able to stimulate plant growth responses when applied to Zea mays seeds growing under greenhouse conditions Bacterial isolates selected were tolerant to concentrations of NaCl up to 600 mM and maintained 50% growth at low water potentials (-1.44 MPa). They were positive for Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilisation and secretion of siderophores. Bacterial isolates showing plant growth promoting potential were identified using 16S rDNA gene sequencing as Achromobacter xylosoxidans strains A8 and C54 and Klebsiella oxytoca strain M1. Mixed inoculum was prepared from indigenous communities of mycorrhizas in soils sampled from the Cerebos Salt Pan and the Kalahari Desert. Mycorrhizal diversity was investigated using 454-Pyrosequencing which revealed that the community composition was dominated by species in the Ambispora, Glomus and Paraglomus genera with a rare component represented by species in the Redeckera, Archaeospora and Geosiphon genera. Microscopic examination of plant roots at the end of the trial revealed the presence of diagnostic mycorrhizal structures within the root cells, confirming that colonization was successful. Plant growth response to microbial inoculation was assessed by monitoring changes in plant photosynthetic capacity over the duration of a 7 week pot trial. A significant difference in photosynthetic and biomass data was observed between drought and well-watered groups but no mycorrhizal or bacterial treatment effect was evident within the groups, despite the high levels of colonization by mycorrhizas. These results suggest that the beneficial effects of mycorrhizal colonization may be primarily attributed to improved nutrient and mineral uptake in conditions where nutrients are limiting, resulting in improved growth. The improved growth may then have secondary effects on the plant‟s ability to withstand drought. Having controlled for nutrient deficiency, it was not evident in this study that mycorrhizal fungi were able to stimulate a change in plant physiology and confer drought tolerance under the conditions imposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Learners' views regarding their effective participation in school governance
- Authors: Munikwa, Julius
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student participation in administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16013 , vital:40582
- Description: Effective learner participation for the development of Representative Council of Learners (RCL) governors in school governance (SG) is of great essence. A qualitative study was conducted in order to assess the learners’ views regarding their lived views and experiences in SG. Twenty four (24) RCL and class representatives from three data sites comprising three high schools in East Cape, in the East London District Education participated in the study. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis from two convenient and one snowball samples, respectively. From each school, a chairperson, a secretary and six focus group discussions (FDGs) members were utilised as participants in order to enrich the study. In doing so, the study made use of Wilcox’s ladder of participation as the lens to unpack the learners’ views regarding their effective participation in school governance. This ladder includes information, consultation, deciding together, acting together and supporting independent community interests. The findings showed that learner participation in both township and former Model C schools is significant. However, a number of pertinent factors that make the voices of learner governors to be stifled emerged. These include lack of capacity building, exclusion from other meetings, dominance of adult governors, lack of collaboration and the fact that learners have to be seen as being respectful and disciplined when in meetings with parents. This makes them to accept their role as a tool for middlemen between the parents, teachers and fellow students. These make the field of effective learner participation uneven, hence making them window dressers and have pseudo contributions in SG. The study therefore suggested that learners should be capacitated to make effective and meaningful contribution in school governance. Learners should work collaboratively with adult governors to enhance effective participation in SG.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Munikwa, Julius
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student participation in administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16013 , vital:40582
- Description: Effective learner participation for the development of Representative Council of Learners (RCL) governors in school governance (SG) is of great essence. A qualitative study was conducted in order to assess the learners’ views regarding their lived views and experiences in SG. Twenty four (24) RCL and class representatives from three data sites comprising three high schools in East Cape, in the East London District Education participated in the study. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis from two convenient and one snowball samples, respectively. From each school, a chairperson, a secretary and six focus group discussions (FDGs) members were utilised as participants in order to enrich the study. In doing so, the study made use of Wilcox’s ladder of participation as the lens to unpack the learners’ views regarding their effective participation in school governance. This ladder includes information, consultation, deciding together, acting together and supporting independent community interests. The findings showed that learner participation in both township and former Model C schools is significant. However, a number of pertinent factors that make the voices of learner governors to be stifled emerged. These include lack of capacity building, exclusion from other meetings, dominance of adult governors, lack of collaboration and the fact that learners have to be seen as being respectful and disciplined when in meetings with parents. This makes them to accept their role as a tool for middlemen between the parents, teachers and fellow students. These make the field of effective learner participation uneven, hence making them window dressers and have pseudo contributions in SG. The study therefore suggested that learners should be capacitated to make effective and meaningful contribution in school governance. Learners should work collaboratively with adult governors to enhance effective participation in SG.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Observational cosmology with imperfect data
- Authors: Bester, Hertzog Landman
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463 , vital:19961
- Description: We develop a formalism suitable to infer the background geometry of a general spherically symmetric dust universe directly from data on the past lightcone. This direct observational approach makes minimal assumptions about inaccessible parts of the Universe. The non-parametric and Bayesian framework we propose provides a very direct way to test one of the most fundamental underlying assumptions of concordance cosmology viz. the Copernican principle. We present the Copernicus algorithm for this purpose. By applying the algorithm to currently available data, we demonstrate that it is not yet possible to confirm or refute the validity of the Copernican principle within the proposed framework. This is followed by an investigation which aims to determine which future data will best be able to test the Copernican principle. Our results on simulated data suggest that, besides the need to improve the current data, it will be important to identify additional model independent observables for this purpose. The main difficulty with current data is their inability to constrain the value of the cosmological constant. We show how redshift drift data could be used to infer its value with minimal assumptions about the nature of the early Universe. We also discuss some alternative applications of the algorithm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bester, Hertzog Landman
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/463 , vital:19961
- Description: We develop a formalism suitable to infer the background geometry of a general spherically symmetric dust universe directly from data on the past lightcone. This direct observational approach makes minimal assumptions about inaccessible parts of the Universe. The non-parametric and Bayesian framework we propose provides a very direct way to test one of the most fundamental underlying assumptions of concordance cosmology viz. the Copernican principle. We present the Copernicus algorithm for this purpose. By applying the algorithm to currently available data, we demonstrate that it is not yet possible to confirm or refute the validity of the Copernican principle within the proposed framework. This is followed by an investigation which aims to determine which future data will best be able to test the Copernican principle. Our results on simulated data suggest that, besides the need to improve the current data, it will be important to identify additional model independent observables for this purpose. The main difficulty with current data is their inability to constrain the value of the cosmological constant. We show how redshift drift data could be used to infer its value with minimal assumptions about the nature of the early Universe. We also discuss some alternative applications of the algorithm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a primary healthcare centre for women and children in KwaZakhele, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Du Preez, Ashleigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38863 , vital:35008
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a primary health care centre for women and children in Kwazakhele, Port Elizabeth. The primary health care facility will provide the space ‘in-between’ home and hospital and will promote improved maternal care by concentrating on antenatal and postnatal services, delivered in a safe environment. The Centre will encompass an understanding of cultural, social and economic informants of health and enable an empowerment of community through a holistic approach to health care design. The Centre aims at dealing with both physical and mental issues that are connected to pregnancy, as well as other aspects of women’s health needs. A maternity ward, as well as a psychological component that deals with antenatal depression and rape counselling, will be incorporated into the design. Understanding traditions in township architecture and the design of healthcare centres internationally and in South Africa provide the basis of a cultural engagement stimulating the design of a health centre providing opportunities for social interaction.By enhancing the urban space, a better quality of living will be provided in the community. Through this intervention, the promotion of wellness will be stimulated and strengthened.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Du Preez, Ashleigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38863 , vital:35008
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a primary health care centre for women and children in Kwazakhele, Port Elizabeth. The primary health care facility will provide the space ‘in-between’ home and hospital and will promote improved maternal care by concentrating on antenatal and postnatal services, delivered in a safe environment. The Centre will encompass an understanding of cultural, social and economic informants of health and enable an empowerment of community through a holistic approach to health care design. The Centre aims at dealing with both physical and mental issues that are connected to pregnancy, as well as other aspects of women’s health needs. A maternity ward, as well as a psychological component that deals with antenatal depression and rape counselling, will be incorporated into the design. Understanding traditions in township architecture and the design of healthcare centres internationally and in South Africa provide the basis of a cultural engagement stimulating the design of a health centre providing opportunities for social interaction.By enhancing the urban space, a better quality of living will be provided in the community. Through this intervention, the promotion of wellness will be stimulated and strengthened.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An optimum wind power output model for concentrator augmented wind turbines (CAWTs)
- Authors: Shonhiwa, Chipo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Wind power Wind turbines
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8692 , vital:33427
- Description: The aim of this study was to develop an optimum wind power output model for concentrator augmented wind turbines (CAWTs), which can operate in low wind speed areas. This study was done using computational fluid dynamics modelling (CFD), theoretical and experimental work. Currently the wind resource is contributing 2.5percent of the global electricity supply and is anticipated to increase to by 2050. Despite this, the contribution to wind energy consumption share by South Africa is still low having just exceeded in 2015. Like many other countries, South Africa agrees that climate change is one of the biggest challenges currently being faced by mankind and acknowledges that tackling it requires collaborative effort from all. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2010-2030) passed in 2010 targets 26.3percent renewable energy contribution to national energy consumption by the year 2030 with 10.3percent coming from wind energy hence contributing to abatement of climate change. 1518percent 1 000 MW Small wind turbines are known for their vital contribution to providing electricity in remote areas. Their power output is mainly influenced by the turbine rotor diameter and wind speed which depend on tower height. A cost benefit analysis conducted basing on increasing wind speed by increasing the turbine tower height revealed that for small wind turbines, the optimal height is . Concentrator Augmented Wind Turbines (CAWTs) are one of several concepts that have been suggested to increase the power output per unit rotor cross-sectional area by increasing the wind speed upstream of the turbine. Although some research effort has been put in this area, the major drawback is that the effect of concentrator geometry and environmental conditions on the aerodynamics and hence ultimate performance of CAWTs is still not clear. Also, the CAWTs systems that have been made so far, do not track the wind resulting in CAWT systems receiving wind from one direction thus limiting their performance. 25 m Wind has a very low energy density in nature implying that a bigger rotor area is required to harness kinetic energy for generation of meaningful electrical energy. This has resulted in higher costs of producing energy from wind than conventional sources of energy such as fossil fuels and hydro. To lower the cost of wind energy, researchers have come up with several initiatives to boost wind turbine power output. A brief review of various concepts that have been used in this study included: history of wind turbines, South Africa’s political will to abatement of climate change, wind resource assessment, power output augmentation, estimation of air density, historical development of CAWTs, fundamental parameters influencing the performance of CAWTs, mathematical modelling of wind turbines and dynamic similarity. Some facts were borrowed from these concepts to come up with the current study and explain the observations. With a view to assess any concept, it is necessary to study the fundamental basis from which it originates. Thus, it was vital to develop a fundamental basis of CAWT performance from which solutions to currently prevailing questions on the relationships among the governing parameters were obtained. The momentum theory of bare wind turbines, which is also found in literature was described. A similar approach was then used for developing the theory of CAWT systems. The theories of concentrator losses, density variation with weather conditions and turbulence modelling were also described. It was of utmost significance to evaluate the wind power potential of the Western part of the Eastern Cape Province to assess whether there would be a need for the concentrator augmented wind turbines (CAWTs) in the province and all other regions with similar or lower wind speeds in the country. In this study, five-year-long, hourly average wind speed series between January 2009 and December 2013 for six weather stations in the western part of the Eastern Cape (Bisho, Fort Beaufort, Graaff–Reinet, Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth and Queenstown) were statistically analysed using the Weibull distribution function. The dimensionless Weibull shape parameter varied from 1.7 to 2.2. All the values were low indicating that there is widely dispersed data. This means that the data tend to be distributed uniformly over a relatively wide range wind speed. Therefore, this has a positive implication on wind power generation in all the studied areas because if a suitable turbine is installed, it would get enough wind speed to run for the greater part of the year. The scale parameter varied between 3.5 and 6.3. The values for all the sites except Port Elizabeth were relatively low implying that the days of high wind speeds are few. Therefore, wind turbines that require high wind speeds for operation are not suitable here.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Shonhiwa, Chipo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Wind power Wind turbines
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8692 , vital:33427
- Description: The aim of this study was to develop an optimum wind power output model for concentrator augmented wind turbines (CAWTs), which can operate in low wind speed areas. This study was done using computational fluid dynamics modelling (CFD), theoretical and experimental work. Currently the wind resource is contributing 2.5percent of the global electricity supply and is anticipated to increase to by 2050. Despite this, the contribution to wind energy consumption share by South Africa is still low having just exceeded in 2015. Like many other countries, South Africa agrees that climate change is one of the biggest challenges currently being faced by mankind and acknowledges that tackling it requires collaborative effort from all. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2010-2030) passed in 2010 targets 26.3percent renewable energy contribution to national energy consumption by the year 2030 with 10.3percent coming from wind energy hence contributing to abatement of climate change. 1518percent 1 000 MW Small wind turbines are known for their vital contribution to providing electricity in remote areas. Their power output is mainly influenced by the turbine rotor diameter and wind speed which depend on tower height. A cost benefit analysis conducted basing on increasing wind speed by increasing the turbine tower height revealed that for small wind turbines, the optimal height is . Concentrator Augmented Wind Turbines (CAWTs) are one of several concepts that have been suggested to increase the power output per unit rotor cross-sectional area by increasing the wind speed upstream of the turbine. Although some research effort has been put in this area, the major drawback is that the effect of concentrator geometry and environmental conditions on the aerodynamics and hence ultimate performance of CAWTs is still not clear. Also, the CAWTs systems that have been made so far, do not track the wind resulting in CAWT systems receiving wind from one direction thus limiting their performance. 25 m Wind has a very low energy density in nature implying that a bigger rotor area is required to harness kinetic energy for generation of meaningful electrical energy. This has resulted in higher costs of producing energy from wind than conventional sources of energy such as fossil fuels and hydro. To lower the cost of wind energy, researchers have come up with several initiatives to boost wind turbine power output. A brief review of various concepts that have been used in this study included: history of wind turbines, South Africa’s political will to abatement of climate change, wind resource assessment, power output augmentation, estimation of air density, historical development of CAWTs, fundamental parameters influencing the performance of CAWTs, mathematical modelling of wind turbines and dynamic similarity. Some facts were borrowed from these concepts to come up with the current study and explain the observations. With a view to assess any concept, it is necessary to study the fundamental basis from which it originates. Thus, it was vital to develop a fundamental basis of CAWT performance from which solutions to currently prevailing questions on the relationships among the governing parameters were obtained. The momentum theory of bare wind turbines, which is also found in literature was described. A similar approach was then used for developing the theory of CAWT systems. The theories of concentrator losses, density variation with weather conditions and turbulence modelling were also described. It was of utmost significance to evaluate the wind power potential of the Western part of the Eastern Cape Province to assess whether there would be a need for the concentrator augmented wind turbines (CAWTs) in the province and all other regions with similar or lower wind speeds in the country. In this study, five-year-long, hourly average wind speed series between January 2009 and December 2013 for six weather stations in the western part of the Eastern Cape (Bisho, Fort Beaufort, Graaff–Reinet, Grahamstown, Port Elizabeth and Queenstown) were statistically analysed using the Weibull distribution function. The dimensionless Weibull shape parameter varied from 1.7 to 2.2. All the values were low indicating that there is widely dispersed data. This means that the data tend to be distributed uniformly over a relatively wide range wind speed. Therefore, this has a positive implication on wind power generation in all the studied areas because if a suitable turbine is installed, it would get enough wind speed to run for the greater part of the year. The scale parameter varied between 3.5 and 6.3. The values for all the sites except Port Elizabeth were relatively low implying that the days of high wind speeds are few. Therefore, wind turbines that require high wind speeds for operation are not suitable here.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of substance abuse among the youth : the case of Dimbaza Township, King Williams Town Eastern Cape
- Authors: Manyonta, Ayanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9389 , vital:34338
- Description: Youth substance abuse is a major social and health concern globally, South Africa notwithstanding. The effect of using substances among the youth does not only impend overall personal development of the youth, but it also limits their aspiration for the future and creates an environment that exacerbates to social ills. This study explored the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza King Williams Town. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to establish the extent of the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza township; (ii) determine the impact of the effects of substance abuse towards the development of Dimbaza Township; (iii) document interventional strategies to mitigate the effects of substance abuse. The study used a qualitative approach, where explorative and descriptive designs were used. Specifically, the case study design was used. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus groups, secondary data and key informants methods. The study used non-probability sampling techniques, but specifically purpose sampling technique was used. Twenty eight (28) participants were sampled which comprised of (12) youth faced with substance related challenges, (6) family members, and (10) key informants. Data was analyzed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following: preponderance of marijuana (dagga) and alcohol, peer pressure as precursor to substance abuse, antisocial behaviours attributable to substance abuse, youth engagement in various criminal activities, evidence of moral decay in Dimbaza, state of poverty aggravating substance abuse habits, paucity of community intervention for social ills. The study made the following recommendations: a need for government to intensify awareness of the impact of substance abuse among the youth; the need for social practitioners to mitigate dysfunctional families facing substance related challenges; strategic educational intervention targeting potential addicts are needed so as to curb the proliferation the effect of substance abuse; establishment of family educational programs are needed to capacitate communities in order to mitigating substance related behaviors;; special police force is needed to strengthen substance abuse campaigns as primary intervention so as to educate pre-adolescents about the aftermaths of substance abuse; moral regeneration initiatives are needed to instill the significance of Ubuntu and worth of human being; intensify of moral regeneration campaigns facilitated by faith-based organizations; and lastly, the government and other stakeholders should fund youth development programs that will equip them with skills to afford them opportunities to bolster their lives and contribute to improving their country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Manyonta, Ayanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9389 , vital:34338
- Description: Youth substance abuse is a major social and health concern globally, South Africa notwithstanding. The effect of using substances among the youth does not only impend overall personal development of the youth, but it also limits their aspiration for the future and creates an environment that exacerbates to social ills. This study explored the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza King Williams Town. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to establish the extent of the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza township; (ii) determine the impact of the effects of substance abuse towards the development of Dimbaza Township; (iii) document interventional strategies to mitigate the effects of substance abuse. The study used a qualitative approach, where explorative and descriptive designs were used. Specifically, the case study design was used. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus groups, secondary data and key informants methods. The study used non-probability sampling techniques, but specifically purpose sampling technique was used. Twenty eight (28) participants were sampled which comprised of (12) youth faced with substance related challenges, (6) family members, and (10) key informants. Data was analyzed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following: preponderance of marijuana (dagga) and alcohol, peer pressure as precursor to substance abuse, antisocial behaviours attributable to substance abuse, youth engagement in various criminal activities, evidence of moral decay in Dimbaza, state of poverty aggravating substance abuse habits, paucity of community intervention for social ills. The study made the following recommendations: a need for government to intensify awareness of the impact of substance abuse among the youth; the need for social practitioners to mitigate dysfunctional families facing substance related challenges; strategic educational intervention targeting potential addicts are needed so as to curb the proliferation the effect of substance abuse; establishment of family educational programs are needed to capacitate communities in order to mitigating substance related behaviors;; special police force is needed to strengthen substance abuse campaigns as primary intervention so as to educate pre-adolescents about the aftermaths of substance abuse; moral regeneration initiatives are needed to instill the significance of Ubuntu and worth of human being; intensify of moral regeneration campaigns facilitated by faith-based organizations; and lastly, the government and other stakeholders should fund youth development programs that will equip them with skills to afford them opportunities to bolster their lives and contribute to improving their country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perceptions of school stakeholders towards the use of English as a language of learning and teaching (LoLT) in grade 9 Social Sciences
- Authors: Soya, Nongesiba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching English language -- Usage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6447 , vital:29720
- Description: The dawn of democracy in South Africa led to the development of Language in Education Policy (LiEP) as one of the pieces of legislations that promote languages in schools where parents, learners, who have come of age may choose a language for instruction. LiEP, together with the Constitution of South Africa, promote equal value of all eleven official languages spoken in this country. The promotion of language policies clearly shows that language is the bedrock of the academic development of every child. Unfortunately, Spaull, Van der Berg, Wills, Gustafsson and Kotzè (2016) found that South African Foundation Phase learners lack the most basic skill needed for academic achievement, reading for meaning. Spaull et.al (2016) findings show that language problems start during the early years of schooling. This study aimed at finding out the perceptions of school stakeholders about the use of English as LoLT in Grade 9 Social Sciences, and it is located in the Interpretivist Paradigm. In this study, stakeholders are learners because they are central to learning, parents, as they have the responsibility of choosing LoLT for their children and assist them in their schooling career. Lastly, teachers are stakeholders because of their critical role of imparting knowledge and skills during classroom interaction. The researcher uses a Qualitative approach to identify data-collecting tools suitable for this research, and chooses semi-structured interviews and observations. Semi-structured interviews are flexible and allow deeper probing during the interview. The sample consists of nine Grade 9 learners, three teachers of Grade 9 Social Sciences and six parents from the School Governing Body (SGB). The aim of conducting observations was to find out the language used by learners and teachers during classroom interaction. This study found out that most participants prefer learning Social Sciences in English than in isiXhosa. They are aware of the challenges experienced in the classroom when learning in English but they still choose it. From the sample used, participants clearly indicate that learning in English causes some barriers in the learning and teaching process. However, it also became clear that the benefits associated with learning in English make it difficult to put it at the same level as other languages and participants do not link mother tongue to career opportunities. It is also evident that English will enjoy its hegemony until such time that all stakeholders in Education view the mother tongue as a foundation for learning other languages and as a resource as well so that they can use it in the classroom to understand the content. Policy developers must look deeply into the question of LoLT so that learners receive instruction in a language that will assist them in improved academic performance. Teachers must be equipped with adequate skills to assist learners in developing reading and comprehension skills in the classroom. There is a dire need to develop the culture of reading in rural school learners; and teachers must expose learners to a variety of English reading material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Soya, Nongesiba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching English language -- Usage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6447 , vital:29720
- Description: The dawn of democracy in South Africa led to the development of Language in Education Policy (LiEP) as one of the pieces of legislations that promote languages in schools where parents, learners, who have come of age may choose a language for instruction. LiEP, together with the Constitution of South Africa, promote equal value of all eleven official languages spoken in this country. The promotion of language policies clearly shows that language is the bedrock of the academic development of every child. Unfortunately, Spaull, Van der Berg, Wills, Gustafsson and Kotzè (2016) found that South African Foundation Phase learners lack the most basic skill needed for academic achievement, reading for meaning. Spaull et.al (2016) findings show that language problems start during the early years of schooling. This study aimed at finding out the perceptions of school stakeholders about the use of English as LoLT in Grade 9 Social Sciences, and it is located in the Interpretivist Paradigm. In this study, stakeholders are learners because they are central to learning, parents, as they have the responsibility of choosing LoLT for their children and assist them in their schooling career. Lastly, teachers are stakeholders because of their critical role of imparting knowledge and skills during classroom interaction. The researcher uses a Qualitative approach to identify data-collecting tools suitable for this research, and chooses semi-structured interviews and observations. Semi-structured interviews are flexible and allow deeper probing during the interview. The sample consists of nine Grade 9 learners, three teachers of Grade 9 Social Sciences and six parents from the School Governing Body (SGB). The aim of conducting observations was to find out the language used by learners and teachers during classroom interaction. This study found out that most participants prefer learning Social Sciences in English than in isiXhosa. They are aware of the challenges experienced in the classroom when learning in English but they still choose it. From the sample used, participants clearly indicate that learning in English causes some barriers in the learning and teaching process. However, it also became clear that the benefits associated with learning in English make it difficult to put it at the same level as other languages and participants do not link mother tongue to career opportunities. It is also evident that English will enjoy its hegemony until such time that all stakeholders in Education view the mother tongue as a foundation for learning other languages and as a resource as well so that they can use it in the classroom to understand the content. Policy developers must look deeply into the question of LoLT so that learners receive instruction in a language that will assist them in improved academic performance. Teachers must be equipped with adequate skills to assist learners in developing reading and comprehension skills in the classroom. There is a dire need to develop the culture of reading in rural school learners; and teachers must expose learners to a variety of English reading material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A case study to explore developing a community of practice to support emergent literacy in preschool children's play
- Authors: Martin, Tamarynd
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Early childhood education , Children -- Language , Reading (Preschool) , Toddlers -- Books and reading
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31841 , vital:31850
- Description: In South Africa at present, Literacy is a cause for rising concern, with reading and writing competency in primary school being at an all-time low. It is a widespread belief that part of the problem lies with the lack early childhood education. Only 37% of children under the age of five attend an early childhood development centre. Furthermore, South Africa has a shortage of educators, specifically within the domain of early childhood development. With more research being done in the area of literacy, more educators concur that emergent literacy forms the foundation of formal reading and writing later on. This study is a participatory case study, which reflects on the importance of literacy in the early years, showing the belief that pre-formal schooling, specifically emergent literacy, is directly linked to proficiency in reading and writing in formal schooling. This study also highlights how educators in early childhood development can be involved in ongoing reflective interventions through in-service training and communities of practice. This community of practice was developed as a series of focus groups, which met on a weekly basis to discuss and share thoughts, opinions and experiences surrounding emergent literacy in a preschool context. From multiple focus groups, I found that the participants became more confident in sharing their experiences and building upon each other’s ideas and thoughts. The focus groups, not only added to their understanding of emergent literacy, but enthused them and created more of an awareness in their day to day practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Martin, Tamarynd
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Early childhood education , Children -- Language , Reading (Preschool) , Toddlers -- Books and reading
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31841 , vital:31850
- Description: In South Africa at present, Literacy is a cause for rising concern, with reading and writing competency in primary school being at an all-time low. It is a widespread belief that part of the problem lies with the lack early childhood education. Only 37% of children under the age of five attend an early childhood development centre. Furthermore, South Africa has a shortage of educators, specifically within the domain of early childhood development. With more research being done in the area of literacy, more educators concur that emergent literacy forms the foundation of formal reading and writing later on. This study is a participatory case study, which reflects on the importance of literacy in the early years, showing the belief that pre-formal schooling, specifically emergent literacy, is directly linked to proficiency in reading and writing in formal schooling. This study also highlights how educators in early childhood development can be involved in ongoing reflective interventions through in-service training and communities of practice. This community of practice was developed as a series of focus groups, which met on a weekly basis to discuss and share thoughts, opinions and experiences surrounding emergent literacy in a preschool context. From multiple focus groups, I found that the participants became more confident in sharing their experiences and building upon each other’s ideas and thoughts. The focus groups, not only added to their understanding of emergent literacy, but enthused them and created more of an awareness in their day to day practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS in Alice, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mavhunga, Ayisha Dadiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-disclosure Stigma (Social psychology) AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10963 , vital:35970
- Description: Non-disclosure of HIV/AIDS status is a topical issue in South Africa and across the globe. This study explored the ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice, Eastern Cape. The study aimed to explore the benefits and opportunities associated with HIV/AIDS disclosure; to examine the underlying factors discouraging Alice PLWHA from disclosing their status; to ascertain the ramifications of HIV/AIDS non-disclosure and to describe the coping strategies PLWHA and their families adopt in dealing with the ramifications of non-disclosure. The study employed the qualitative case study design, which was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm. The key informant’s method, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were the main data collection methods. The sample of 35 participants was selected through the purposive and snowballing sampling technique. This sample comprised of 10 PLWHA, 20 family members and 5 key informants. The data collected from this sample was analysed through thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that PLWHA who disclosed their status accessed benefits and opportunities such as medication, psychosocial support, employment and the helping hands needed to manage their illness. In addition, the findings revealed that stigma, discrimination and socio-cultural factors inhibited some PLWHA from disclosing their status. Consequently, non-disclosure resulted in PLWHA experiencing ramifications such ramifications such as internal stigma, conflict in relationships, diminished career and educational achievement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mavhunga, Ayisha Dadiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-disclosure Stigma (Social psychology) AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10963 , vital:35970
- Description: Non-disclosure of HIV/AIDS status is a topical issue in South Africa and across the globe. This study explored the ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice, Eastern Cape. The study aimed to explore the benefits and opportunities associated with HIV/AIDS disclosure; to examine the underlying factors discouraging Alice PLWHA from disclosing their status; to ascertain the ramifications of HIV/AIDS non-disclosure and to describe the coping strategies PLWHA and their families adopt in dealing with the ramifications of non-disclosure. The study employed the qualitative case study design, which was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm. The key informant’s method, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were the main data collection methods. The sample of 35 participants was selected through the purposive and snowballing sampling technique. This sample comprised of 10 PLWHA, 20 family members and 5 key informants. The data collected from this sample was analysed through thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that PLWHA who disclosed their status accessed benefits and opportunities such as medication, psychosocial support, employment and the helping hands needed to manage their illness. In addition, the findings revealed that stigma, discrimination and socio-cultural factors inhibited some PLWHA from disclosing their status. Consequently, non-disclosure resulted in PLWHA experiencing ramifications such ramifications such as internal stigma, conflict in relationships, diminished career and educational achievement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Investigation of Sexual Relationships among gay students at the University Of Fort Hare (Alice Campus), Eastern Cape.
- Authors: Mbanga , T.Q
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gay youth Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci (Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17619 , vital:41129
- Description: The main aim of the study was to investigate sexual relationships among gay students at the University of Fort Hare (Alice Campus), Eastern Cape. A qualitative research design was followed and semi-structured interview schedules were issued to twelve participants. The queer theory underpinned this study and it is based on the notion that individuals are able to determine their sexual identity and sexual orientation as they are. The participants, aged 18-25 years, were purposively selected to share their sexual behaviour as gays. The ethical principles such as informed consent, confidentiality, privacy and protection from harm, were adhered to, throughout the study. Prior identification of the themes, coding took place. The following themes were very important in the research and they helped to achieve the aim of the study and they are; challenges gay students experience in their relationships, closet partners, social networks sexual partners among gay students, condom use among gay students, sexual agreements among gay students, condom use, condom self-efficacy, honesty and communication, social support, self-esteem, liberal community and non-homophobic, traditional male circumcision, sexual agreements among gay students ,pornography viewing , sexual abuse among gay students, discrimination in residence, religiosity and perception towards marriage among gay students. Based on the findings, it is recommended that there should be communication among gay couples to avoid lot of conflicts. Also, there should be education about homosexuality in communities, schools and tertiary institutions as many people treat gays badly owing to lack of knowledge
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mbanga , T.Q
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gay youth Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci (Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17619 , vital:41129
- Description: The main aim of the study was to investigate sexual relationships among gay students at the University of Fort Hare (Alice Campus), Eastern Cape. A qualitative research design was followed and semi-structured interview schedules were issued to twelve participants. The queer theory underpinned this study and it is based on the notion that individuals are able to determine their sexual identity and sexual orientation as they are. The participants, aged 18-25 years, were purposively selected to share their sexual behaviour as gays. The ethical principles such as informed consent, confidentiality, privacy and protection from harm, were adhered to, throughout the study. Prior identification of the themes, coding took place. The following themes were very important in the research and they helped to achieve the aim of the study and they are; challenges gay students experience in their relationships, closet partners, social networks sexual partners among gay students, condom use among gay students, sexual agreements among gay students, condom use, condom self-efficacy, honesty and communication, social support, self-esteem, liberal community and non-homophobic, traditional male circumcision, sexual agreements among gay students ,pornography viewing , sexual abuse among gay students, discrimination in residence, religiosity and perception towards marriage among gay students. Based on the findings, it is recommended that there should be communication among gay couples to avoid lot of conflicts. Also, there should be education about homosexuality in communities, schools and tertiary institutions as many people treat gays badly owing to lack of knowledge
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Sequencing, assembly and annotation of the mitochondrial and plastid genomes of Gelidium pristoides (Turner) Kützing from Kenton-on-Sea, South Africa
- Authors: Mangali, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gelidium -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19109 , vital:39883
- Description: The genome is the complete set of an organism's hereditary information that contains all the information necessary for the functioning of that organism. Complete nuclear, mitochondrial and plastid DNA constitute the three main types of genomes which play interconnected roles in an organism. Genome sequencing enables researchers to understand the regulation and expression of the various genes and the proteins they encode. It allows researchers to extract and analyse genes of interests for a variety of studies including molecular, biotechnological, bioinformatics and conservation and evolutionary studies. Genome sequencing of Rhodophyta has received little attention. To date, no published studies are focusing on both whole genome sequencing and sequencing of the organellar genomes of Rhodophyta species found in along the South African coastline. This study focused on genome sequencing, assembly and annotation mitochondrial and plastid genomes of Gelidium pristoides. Gelidium pristoides was collected from Kenton-on-Sea and was morphologically identified at Rhodes University. Its genomic DNA was extracted using the Nucleospin® Plant II kit and quantified using Qubit 2.0, Nanodrop and 1% agarose gel electrophoresis. The Ion Plus Fragment Library kit was used for the preparation of a 600 bp library, which was sequenced in two separate runs through the Ion S5 platform. The produced reads were quality-controlled through the Ion Torrent server version 5.6. and assessed using the FASTQC program. The SPAdes version 3.11.1 assembler was used to assemble the quality-controlled reads, and the resultant genome assembly was quality-assessed using the QUAST 4.1 software. The mitochondrial genome was selected from the produced Gelidium pristoides draft genome using mitochondrial genomes of other Gelidiales as search queries on the local BLAST algorithm of the BioEdit software. Contigs matching the organellar genomes were ordered according to the mitochondrial genomes of other Gelidiales using the trial version of Geneious R11.12 software. The plastid genome was also selected following the same approach but using plastid genomes of Gelidium elegans and Gelidium vagum as search queries. Gaps observed in the organellar genomes were closed by amplification of the relevant gap using polymerase chain reaction with newly designed primers and Sanger sequencing. Open reading frames for both organellar genomes were annotated using the NCBI ORF-Finder and alignments obtained from BlastN and BlastX searches from the NCBI database, while the tRNAs and rRNAs were identified using the tRNAscan-SE1.21 vi and the RNAmmer 1.2 servers. The circular physical map of the mitochondrial genome was constructed using the CGView server. Lastly, in silico analysis of cytochrome c oxidase 3 and Heat Shock Protein 70 was performed using the PRIMO and the SWISS-MODEL pipelines respectively. Their phylogenies were analysed through Clustal omega and the trees viewed on TreeView 1.6.6 software. Qubit and Nanodrop genomic DNA qualification revealed A260/A280 and A230/A260 ratios of 1.81 and 1.52 respectively. The 1% agarose gel electrophoresis further confirmed the good quality of the genomic DNA used for library preparation and sequencing. Pre-assembly quality control of reads resulted in a total of 30 792 074 high-quality reads which were assembled into a total of 94140 contigs, making up an estimated genome length of 217.06 Mb. The largest contig covered up to 13.17 kb of the draft genome, and an N50 statistic value of 3.17 kb was obtained. The G.pristoides mitochondrial genome mapped into a circular molecule of 25012 bp, with an overall GC content of 31.04% and a total of 45 genes distributed into 20 tRNA-coding, 2 rRNAcoding genes and 23 protein-coding genes, mostly adopting the modified genetic code of Rhodophyta. The SecY and rps12 genes overlapped by 41 bp. This study presents a partial plastid genome composed of 89 (38%) fully annotated genes, of which 71 are protein-coding, and 18 are distributed among 15 tRNA-coding, 2 rRNA-coding and 1 RNaseP RNA-coding genes. Sixty-one (26%) partial protein-coding genes were predicted, while approximately 84 (36%) genes are not yet predicted. In silico analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase and heat shock protein 70 showed that the gene sequences obtained in this study and the resultant transcribed protein have sequences and structures that are similar to those from several other different species, thus validating the integrity of the genome sequences. This study provides genomic data necessary for understanding the genomic constituent of G.pristoides and serve as a foundation for studies of individual genes and for resolving evolutionary relationships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mangali, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gelidium -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19109 , vital:39883
- Description: The genome is the complete set of an organism's hereditary information that contains all the information necessary for the functioning of that organism. Complete nuclear, mitochondrial and plastid DNA constitute the three main types of genomes which play interconnected roles in an organism. Genome sequencing enables researchers to understand the regulation and expression of the various genes and the proteins they encode. It allows researchers to extract and analyse genes of interests for a variety of studies including molecular, biotechnological, bioinformatics and conservation and evolutionary studies. Genome sequencing of Rhodophyta has received little attention. To date, no published studies are focusing on both whole genome sequencing and sequencing of the organellar genomes of Rhodophyta species found in along the South African coastline. This study focused on genome sequencing, assembly and annotation mitochondrial and plastid genomes of Gelidium pristoides. Gelidium pristoides was collected from Kenton-on-Sea and was morphologically identified at Rhodes University. Its genomic DNA was extracted using the Nucleospin® Plant II kit and quantified using Qubit 2.0, Nanodrop and 1% agarose gel electrophoresis. The Ion Plus Fragment Library kit was used for the preparation of a 600 bp library, which was sequenced in two separate runs through the Ion S5 platform. The produced reads were quality-controlled through the Ion Torrent server version 5.6. and assessed using the FASTQC program. The SPAdes version 3.11.1 assembler was used to assemble the quality-controlled reads, and the resultant genome assembly was quality-assessed using the QUAST 4.1 software. The mitochondrial genome was selected from the produced Gelidium pristoides draft genome using mitochondrial genomes of other Gelidiales as search queries on the local BLAST algorithm of the BioEdit software. Contigs matching the organellar genomes were ordered according to the mitochondrial genomes of other Gelidiales using the trial version of Geneious R11.12 software. The plastid genome was also selected following the same approach but using plastid genomes of Gelidium elegans and Gelidium vagum as search queries. Gaps observed in the organellar genomes were closed by amplification of the relevant gap using polymerase chain reaction with newly designed primers and Sanger sequencing. Open reading frames for both organellar genomes were annotated using the NCBI ORF-Finder and alignments obtained from BlastN and BlastX searches from the NCBI database, while the tRNAs and rRNAs were identified using the tRNAscan-SE1.21 vi and the RNAmmer 1.2 servers. The circular physical map of the mitochondrial genome was constructed using the CGView server. Lastly, in silico analysis of cytochrome c oxidase 3 and Heat Shock Protein 70 was performed using the PRIMO and the SWISS-MODEL pipelines respectively. Their phylogenies were analysed through Clustal omega and the trees viewed on TreeView 1.6.6 software. Qubit and Nanodrop genomic DNA qualification revealed A260/A280 and A230/A260 ratios of 1.81 and 1.52 respectively. The 1% agarose gel electrophoresis further confirmed the good quality of the genomic DNA used for library preparation and sequencing. Pre-assembly quality control of reads resulted in a total of 30 792 074 high-quality reads which were assembled into a total of 94140 contigs, making up an estimated genome length of 217.06 Mb. The largest contig covered up to 13.17 kb of the draft genome, and an N50 statistic value of 3.17 kb was obtained. The G.pristoides mitochondrial genome mapped into a circular molecule of 25012 bp, with an overall GC content of 31.04% and a total of 45 genes distributed into 20 tRNA-coding, 2 rRNAcoding genes and 23 protein-coding genes, mostly adopting the modified genetic code of Rhodophyta. The SecY and rps12 genes overlapped by 41 bp. This study presents a partial plastid genome composed of 89 (38%) fully annotated genes, of which 71 are protein-coding, and 18 are distributed among 15 tRNA-coding, 2 rRNA-coding and 1 RNaseP RNA-coding genes. Sixty-one (26%) partial protein-coding genes were predicted, while approximately 84 (36%) genes are not yet predicted. In silico analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase and heat shock protein 70 showed that the gene sequences obtained in this study and the resultant transcribed protein have sequences and structures that are similar to those from several other different species, thus validating the integrity of the genome sequences. This study provides genomic data necessary for understanding the genomic constituent of G.pristoides and serve as a foundation for studies of individual genes and for resolving evolutionary relationships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The impact of public libraries in the Eastern Cape Province with reference to three Buffalo City Municipal libraries in King Williams' Town
- Authors: Gunuza, Nokuthula
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public libraries Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16452 , vital:40721
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact of public libraries in developing information literacy in libraries in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: a case study of Buffalo City Municipality public libraries in King William’s Town. The objectives of the study were to find out how these three libraries in Buffalo City Metro public libraries ensure equity of library and information services provision to the user communities, to find out how public libraries support education and lifelong learning, to identify the challenges that public libraries face in rendering library and information services with reference to the three libraries, and to investigate the role of library professionals in marketing the library services to the community. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a descriptive survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by face to face interviews. A total of 297 questionnaires were distributed and 200 were returned giving a response rate of 67.3%. The quantitative data which was collected through questionnaire was presented using graphs and tables, while qualitative was analysed manually by content analysis, using the notes that were taken by the researcher from the respondents during the interview sessions and reported verbatim in some instances. The findings showed that regardless of South African LIS environment having contradictions resulting from years of apartheid, most of the Buffalo City Metro public library patrons indicated that they experienced fair and equitable access to library and information services. In addition to participants’ quantitative responses, the qualitative excerpts from librarians attested to the library having a classification system that allows easy access to library resources. In addition, findings of the study also revealed that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries have a diversity of users, ranging from different age groups and social standing. The results from the current study revealed that the Buffalo City metropolitan public library users have little knowledge about literacy programmes that are taking place in the library. The findings also indicated that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries market library services by word of mouth, posters and notice boards. One of the major findings of the study is that Buffalo City Metro public libraries are faced with financial constraints and that led to a myriad of challenges ranging from inadequate library operating hours; limited information sources; lack of information retrieval training to patrons; internet connectivity issues; xii lack of professional staff and lack of training on the latest technological trends. The study concludes that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries should establish a marketing strategy to motivate for funding. The study recommended that the Buffalo City public libraries should create an integrated system for all libraries in the metromunicipality that encourages adult literacy programme to raise awareness of information literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gunuza, Nokuthula
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public libraries Information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Bibl
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16452 , vital:40721
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact of public libraries in developing information literacy in libraries in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: a case study of Buffalo City Municipality public libraries in King William’s Town. The objectives of the study were to find out how these three libraries in Buffalo City Metro public libraries ensure equity of library and information services provision to the user communities, to find out how public libraries support education and lifelong learning, to identify the challenges that public libraries face in rendering library and information services with reference to the three libraries, and to investigate the role of library professionals in marketing the library services to the community. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed in a descriptive survey. The main research instrument was a questionnaire supported by face to face interviews. A total of 297 questionnaires were distributed and 200 were returned giving a response rate of 67.3%. The quantitative data which was collected through questionnaire was presented using graphs and tables, while qualitative was analysed manually by content analysis, using the notes that were taken by the researcher from the respondents during the interview sessions and reported verbatim in some instances. The findings showed that regardless of South African LIS environment having contradictions resulting from years of apartheid, most of the Buffalo City Metro public library patrons indicated that they experienced fair and equitable access to library and information services. In addition to participants’ quantitative responses, the qualitative excerpts from librarians attested to the library having a classification system that allows easy access to library resources. In addition, findings of the study also revealed that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries have a diversity of users, ranging from different age groups and social standing. The results from the current study revealed that the Buffalo City metropolitan public library users have little knowledge about literacy programmes that are taking place in the library. The findings also indicated that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries market library services by word of mouth, posters and notice boards. One of the major findings of the study is that Buffalo City Metro public libraries are faced with financial constraints and that led to a myriad of challenges ranging from inadequate library operating hours; limited information sources; lack of information retrieval training to patrons; internet connectivity issues; xii lack of professional staff and lack of training on the latest technological trends. The study concludes that the Buffalo City Metro public libraries should establish a marketing strategy to motivate for funding. The study recommended that the Buffalo City public libraries should create an integrated system for all libraries in the metromunicipality that encourages adult literacy programme to raise awareness of information literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019