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
The design of a new medical faculty building at Livingston Hospital in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a digital resource centre in Motherwell, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Bursey, Rowan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38874 , vital:35009
- Description: This treatise is centered on the design of a digital resource centre in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The building is concerned with providing a civic space which promotes access to and effective use of digital information and communication technologies. The treatise explores the issues and methods involved in the design of a public digital resource centre. The research starts with an investigation into the nature of public space and civic facilities within a South African township context before exploring the development of the library typology and its evolution in the digital age, while exploring the issues and processes involved in the design of a civic building in a township environment. The architectural design is seen as an appropriate response to the identified architectural issues. Relevant precedents are chosen based on the nature of these issues and the context in which they are situated. The buildings are analyzed in terms of these key issues and will thereby provide an understanding of the architectural identity of the civic building archetype. An understanding of the architectural typology and an analysis of relevant precedents leads to the identification of a set of site selection criteria which can be used to select an appropriate site within the Motherwell precinct. The nature of Motherwell and the identified issues related to the selected site are then investigated in order to develop a set of informants and constraints. Specific elements which are unique to the selected site are then investigated individually while using relevant precedents to establish an appropriate response to the issues involved. An appropriate architectural response is then developed through an understanding of the physical and spatial qualities of the building typology while also responding to the specific issues related to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bursey, Rowan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38874 , vital:35009
- Description: This treatise is centered on the design of a digital resource centre in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The building is concerned with providing a civic space which promotes access to and effective use of digital information and communication technologies. The treatise explores the issues and methods involved in the design of a public digital resource centre. The research starts with an investigation into the nature of public space and civic facilities within a South African township context before exploring the development of the library typology and its evolution in the digital age, while exploring the issues and processes involved in the design of a civic building in a township environment. The architectural design is seen as an appropriate response to the identified architectural issues. Relevant precedents are chosen based on the nature of these issues and the context in which they are situated. The buildings are analyzed in terms of these key issues and will thereby provide an understanding of the architectural identity of the civic building archetype. An understanding of the architectural typology and an analysis of relevant precedents leads to the identification of a set of site selection criteria which can be used to select an appropriate site within the Motherwell precinct. The nature of Motherwell and the identified issues related to the selected site are then investigated in order to develop a set of informants and constraints. Specific elements which are unique to the selected site are then investigated individually while using relevant precedents to establish an appropriate response to the issues involved. An appropriate architectural response is then developed through an understanding of the physical and spatial qualities of the building typology while also responding to the specific issues related to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a cultural resource centre in the lower Khuiseb river valley, Namibia: a collective project
- Authors: Niedermeier, Inka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- Namibia -- Designs and plans Community centers -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38830 , vital:35004
- Description: The treatise focuses on how to design built space that is ‘place-specific’ and captures the ‘spirit’ of the Namib Desert landscape through the experience of architecture. The project specifically focuses on tourism developments in natural and cultural environments. An investigation and analysis are done of the nature of the physical, spatial and cultural context of the ephemeral Khuiseb river of Namibia. By inductive and deductive reasoning, an argument is presented regarding the appropriate architectural approach of a luxury eco-lodge in a proposed eco-tourism precinct, that captures the Zeitgeist of the context while responding to the socio-economic conditions to encourage an autonomous community in a selfsufficient and sustainable way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Niedermeier, Inka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- Namibia -- Designs and plans Community centers -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38830 , vital:35004
- Description: The treatise focuses on how to design built space that is ‘place-specific’ and captures the ‘spirit’ of the Namib Desert landscape through the experience of architecture. The project specifically focuses on tourism developments in natural and cultural environments. An investigation and analysis are done of the nature of the physical, spatial and cultural context of the ephemeral Khuiseb river of Namibia. By inductive and deductive reasoning, an argument is presented regarding the appropriate architectural approach of a luxury eco-lodge in a proposed eco-tourism precinct, that captures the Zeitgeist of the context while responding to the socio-economic conditions to encourage an autonomous community in a selfsufficient and sustainable way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a centre for water sports in Newlands, Cape Town
- Authors: MacKenzie, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans Recreation centers -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39218 , vital:35064
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a Water Sports Centre in the sporting precinct of Newlands in Cape Town. The building is concerned with the redevelopment of an existing facility that is underutilised and outdated, compared to the 21st-century sporting arena. The purpose of this treatise is to investigate the processes and issues involved in the design of a Water Sports Centre that is located in a public park environment, and to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical, and theoretical influences on the nature of such a project’s architectural resolution. The process begins with an analysis of the two separate typologies, namely, water sports centres and sports stadiums, to better understand the spatial and physical nature of the combined building types. Various precedents are investigated of which the materiality and physical nature of the buildings are uncovered to identify an appropriate architectural language. Moreover, the spatial nature of these buildings are divided into categories of which the inter-relationships are analysed. The nature of the site is then investigated to identify and develop constraints and design informants. The site-defining elements are analysed individually, and a corresponding set of issues is established through the study of particular precedents. With an understanding of the physical and spatial attributes of the typology, combined with an appropriate response to the site, the design resolution for the Water Sports Centre in the Newlands sporting precinct is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: MacKenzie, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans Recreation centers -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39218 , vital:35064
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a Water Sports Centre in the sporting precinct of Newlands in Cape Town. The building is concerned with the redevelopment of an existing facility that is underutilised and outdated, compared to the 21st-century sporting arena. The purpose of this treatise is to investigate the processes and issues involved in the design of a Water Sports Centre that is located in a public park environment, and to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical, and theoretical influences on the nature of such a project’s architectural resolution. The process begins with an analysis of the two separate typologies, namely, water sports centres and sports stadiums, to better understand the spatial and physical nature of the combined building types. Various precedents are investigated of which the materiality and physical nature of the buildings are uncovered to identify an appropriate architectural language. Moreover, the spatial nature of these buildings are divided into categories of which the inter-relationships are analysed. The nature of the site is then investigated to identify and develop constraints and design informants. The site-defining elements are analysed individually, and a corresponding set of issues is established through the study of particular precedents. With an understanding of the physical and spatial attributes of the typology, combined with an appropriate response to the site, the design resolution for the Water Sports Centre in the Newlands sporting precinct is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Thermoluminescence of annealed synthetic quartz
- Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Authors: Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/420 , vital:19957
- Description: The kinetic and dosimetric features of the main thermoluminescent peak of synthetic quartz have been investigated in quartz ordinarily annealed at 500_C as well as quartz annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes. The main peak is found at 78 _C for the samples annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes irradiated to 10 Gy and heated at 1.0 _C/s. For the samples ordinarily annealed at 500_C the main peak is found at 106 _C after the sample has been irradiated to 30 Gy and heated at 5.0 _C/s. In these samples, the intensity of the main peak is enhanced with repetitive measurement whereas its maximum temperature is unaffected. The peak position of the main peak in the sample is independent of the irradiation dose and this, together with its fading characteristics, are consistent with first-order kinetics. For doses between 5 and 25 Gy, the dose response of the main peak of the annealed sample is superlinear. The half-life of the main TL peak of the annealed sample is about 1 h. The activation energy E of the main peak is around 0.90 eV. For a heating rate of 0.4 _C/s, its order of kinetics b derived from the whole curve method of analysis is 1.0. Following irradiation, preheating and illumination with 470 nm blue light, the main peak in the annealed sample is regenerated during heating. The resulting phototransferred peak occurs at the same temperature as the original peak and has similar kinetic and dosimetric features, with a half-life of about 1 h. For a preheat temperature of 200 _C, the intensity of the phototransferred peak in the sample increases with illumination time up to a maximum and decreases thereafter. At longer illumination times, no further decrease in the intensity of the phototransferred peak is observed. The traps associated with the 325 _C peak are the main source of the electrons responsible for the regenerated peak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/420 , vital:19957
- Description: The kinetic and dosimetric features of the main thermoluminescent peak of synthetic quartz have been investigated in quartz ordinarily annealed at 500_C as well as quartz annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes. The main peak is found at 78 _C for the samples annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes irradiated to 10 Gy and heated at 1.0 _C/s. For the samples ordinarily annealed at 500_C the main peak is found at 106 _C after the sample has been irradiated to 30 Gy and heated at 5.0 _C/s. In these samples, the intensity of the main peak is enhanced with repetitive measurement whereas its maximum temperature is unaffected. The peak position of the main peak in the sample is independent of the irradiation dose and this, together with its fading characteristics, are consistent with first-order kinetics. For doses between 5 and 25 Gy, the dose response of the main peak of the annealed sample is superlinear. The half-life of the main TL peak of the annealed sample is about 1 h. The activation energy E of the main peak is around 0.90 eV. For a heating rate of 0.4 _C/s, its order of kinetics b derived from the whole curve method of analysis is 1.0. Following irradiation, preheating and illumination with 470 nm blue light, the main peak in the annealed sample is regenerated during heating. The resulting phototransferred peak occurs at the same temperature as the original peak and has similar kinetic and dosimetric features, with a half-life of about 1 h. For a preheat temperature of 200 _C, the intensity of the phototransferred peak in the sample increases with illumination time up to a maximum and decreases thereafter. At longer illumination times, no further decrease in the intensity of the phototransferred peak is observed. The traps associated with the 325 _C peak are the main source of the electrons responsible for the regenerated peak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The woman who accused Zwelinzima Vavi of rape :a media analysis of eight South African newspapers
- Authors: Timse, Tabelo Veronica
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rape -- South Africa -- Case studies Sexual abuse victims -- South Africa , Mass media criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45311 , vital:38569
- Description: The focal point of this study is to examine the print and online media representations of Jacqueline Phooko,a woman who accused former Cosatu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi of rape. Data for this study was obtained from eight South African newspapers and their websites. The study investigates whether the articles under review, including commentary and discussion online, focused on the incident itself or on the political landscape of South Africa. A content analysis was used to examine the data revelaling that Phooko was underrepresented and that most articles focused on Vavi’s political career. The research will use a feminist perspective to show that Phooko was under-represented in the media, in comparison to Vavi and his supporters who gained greater coverage, specifically in a political context. The significance of the findings is that although there are some strides achieved to have more women voices in the media however women are still under-represented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Timse, Tabelo Veronica
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Rape -- South Africa -- Case studies Sexual abuse victims -- South Africa , Mass media criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45311 , vital:38569
- Description: The focal point of this study is to examine the print and online media representations of Jacqueline Phooko,a woman who accused former Cosatu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi of rape. Data for this study was obtained from eight South African newspapers and their websites. The study investigates whether the articles under review, including commentary and discussion online, focused on the incident itself or on the political landscape of South Africa. A content analysis was used to examine the data revelaling that Phooko was underrepresented and that most articles focused on Vavi’s political career. The research will use a feminist perspective to show that Phooko was under-represented in the media, in comparison to Vavi and his supporters who gained greater coverage, specifically in a political context. The significance of the findings is that although there are some strides achieved to have more women voices in the media however women are still under-represented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The use of treated brewery effluent as a water and nutrient source in crop irrigation
- Authors: Taylor, Richard Peter
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5390 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021265
- Description: Brewery effluent (BE) needs to be treated before it can be released into the environment, reused or used in down-stream activities. Current technologies used to address this concern at the experimental wastewater treatment plant at Ibahyi Brewery (SAB Ltd) include anaerobic digestion (AD), primary facultative ponds (PFP), high rate algal ponds (HRAP) and constructed wetlands (CW). The aim of this work was to determine if BE treated in these systems might be suitable for crop irrigation. A test crop, cabbage (Brassica oleracea cv. Star 3301), grew best on post-AD and post-PFP BE compared to those irrigated with post-HRAP or post-CW effluent. However, the yield was 13% lower than cabbage plants irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution and fresh water. The relatively high conductivity (3019.05 ± 48.72 μs/cm2) of BE may be the main factor reducing the cabbage yields. Post-HRAP and post-CW BE were the least suitable for irrigated crop production due to the higher conductivity and lower nutrient content of these treated effluents. After three months, soils irrigated with post-AD and post-PFP BE had a significantly higher sodium content and sodium adsorption ratio (3919 ± 94.77 mg/kg & 8.18 ± 0.17) than soil irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution (920.58 ± 27.46 mg/kg & 2.20 ± 0.05; p<0.05). However, this was not accompanied by a deterioration in the soil’s hydro-physical properties, nor a change in the metabolic community structure of the soil (p>0.05). After prolonged irrigation with treated BE, sodium is likely to build up in the soil and this can be expected to be accompanied by a deterioration in the soil physical structure. However, crops species such as millet (Echinochloa esculenta), lucerne (Medicago sativa) and saltbush (Atriplex nummularia) reduced the build-up of sodium in the soil. The results suggest that sodium was mainly removed from the soil through plant-assisted leaching. Of the crops grown, lucerne showed the most promise because it improved the soil physical properties, is able to grow well in alkaline environments, is a popular fodder crop and can be harvested multiple times from a single stand. Brewery effluent is more suitable for soil production systems than hydroponic production systems because the soil was able to act as a buffer against the high pH of post-AD BE, whereas in a hydroponics systems the high pH reduced the availability of key minerals to plants. In conclusion brewery effluent contains sufficient plants nutrients to support the growth of cabbages, saltbush, lucerne and millet. However the sodium content of BE is a concern as it accumulates in the soil, and in the long-term it may lead to soil degradation. It is suggested that the brewery change the pH neutralising treatment of BE from sodium hydroxide to potassium hydroxide, or dolomitic lime (calcium and magnesium carbonate) because this would reduce the introduction of sodium into the system, and would increase the suitability of BE for crop production, given potassium and calcium are plant nutrients. The benefits of developing this nutrient and water resource could contribute to cost-reductions at the brewery, more efficient water, nutrient and energy management, create job opportunities with the potential of improving food security in the local community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Taylor, Richard Peter
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5390 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021265
- Description: Brewery effluent (BE) needs to be treated before it can be released into the environment, reused or used in down-stream activities. Current technologies used to address this concern at the experimental wastewater treatment plant at Ibahyi Brewery (SAB Ltd) include anaerobic digestion (AD), primary facultative ponds (PFP), high rate algal ponds (HRAP) and constructed wetlands (CW). The aim of this work was to determine if BE treated in these systems might be suitable for crop irrigation. A test crop, cabbage (Brassica oleracea cv. Star 3301), grew best on post-AD and post-PFP BE compared to those irrigated with post-HRAP or post-CW effluent. However, the yield was 13% lower than cabbage plants irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution and fresh water. The relatively high conductivity (3019.05 ± 48.72 μs/cm2) of BE may be the main factor reducing the cabbage yields. Post-HRAP and post-CW BE were the least suitable for irrigated crop production due to the higher conductivity and lower nutrient content of these treated effluents. After three months, soils irrigated with post-AD and post-PFP BE had a significantly higher sodium content and sodium adsorption ratio (3919 ± 94.77 mg/kg & 8.18 ± 0.17) than soil irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution (920.58 ± 27.46 mg/kg & 2.20 ± 0.05; p<0.05). However, this was not accompanied by a deterioration in the soil’s hydro-physical properties, nor a change in the metabolic community structure of the soil (p>0.05). After prolonged irrigation with treated BE, sodium is likely to build up in the soil and this can be expected to be accompanied by a deterioration in the soil physical structure. However, crops species such as millet (Echinochloa esculenta), lucerne (Medicago sativa) and saltbush (Atriplex nummularia) reduced the build-up of sodium in the soil. The results suggest that sodium was mainly removed from the soil through plant-assisted leaching. Of the crops grown, lucerne showed the most promise because it improved the soil physical properties, is able to grow well in alkaline environments, is a popular fodder crop and can be harvested multiple times from a single stand. Brewery effluent is more suitable for soil production systems than hydroponic production systems because the soil was able to act as a buffer against the high pH of post-AD BE, whereas in a hydroponics systems the high pH reduced the availability of key minerals to plants. In conclusion brewery effluent contains sufficient plants nutrients to support the growth of cabbages, saltbush, lucerne and millet. However the sodium content of BE is a concern as it accumulates in the soil, and in the long-term it may lead to soil degradation. It is suggested that the brewery change the pH neutralising treatment of BE from sodium hydroxide to potassium hydroxide, or dolomitic lime (calcium and magnesium carbonate) because this would reduce the introduction of sodium into the system, and would increase the suitability of BE for crop production, given potassium and calcium are plant nutrients. The benefits of developing this nutrient and water resource could contribute to cost-reductions at the brewery, more efficient water, nutrient and energy management, create job opportunities with the potential of improving food security in the local community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The use of conceptual costume design to express the emotional trajectory of the play sounds of South End
- Authors: Chingosho, Vimbai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Fashion -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Costume design -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11449 , vital:26926
- Description: The aim of this study is to illustrate how, in the design of costumes, adopting design elements used to produce conceptual fashion can create conceptual costumes that have the ability to express emotions. The play Sounds of South End (2013) contains such qualities; therefore it has been selected to illustrate how the mood and emotional trajectory of a play can be interpreted through symbolism. The play illustrates the life before and after the forced removals during the apartheid (1960s and 1970s), of a fictional family, the Dietrichs, who live in South End, a suburb in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. A focus on the nature of emotional changes experienced by the family has been used to determine the overall mood of the play, leading to a translation of the shifting mood through a collection of conceptual costumes. The final collection was exhibited as an installation artwork that is an interpretation of the altering moods and emotions that occur in the life of the Dietrich family as the play unfolds. The conceptual costumes have been constructed to imbue the narrative of the play with deep meaning by using symbolic elements, such as colour, texture and weight, to suggest the emotional trajectory within the play. The eight costumes portray the interrelated gradual decline and resultant deterioration of human relations experienced by the Dietrichs, from a contented state of harmonious living to a wounded state of despair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chingosho, Vimbai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Fashion -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Costume design -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11449 , vital:26926
- Description: The aim of this study is to illustrate how, in the design of costumes, adopting design elements used to produce conceptual fashion can create conceptual costumes that have the ability to express emotions. The play Sounds of South End (2013) contains such qualities; therefore it has been selected to illustrate how the mood and emotional trajectory of a play can be interpreted through symbolism. The play illustrates the life before and after the forced removals during the apartheid (1960s and 1970s), of a fictional family, the Dietrichs, who live in South End, a suburb in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. A focus on the nature of emotional changes experienced by the family has been used to determine the overall mood of the play, leading to a translation of the shifting mood through a collection of conceptual costumes. The final collection was exhibited as an installation artwork that is an interpretation of the altering moods and emotions that occur in the life of the Dietrich family as the play unfolds. The conceptual costumes have been constructed to imbue the narrative of the play with deep meaning by using symbolic elements, such as colour, texture and weight, to suggest the emotional trajectory within the play. The eight costumes portray the interrelated gradual decline and resultant deterioration of human relations experienced by the Dietrichs, from a contented state of harmonious living to a wounded state of despair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The usage of outdoor gyms in South Africa
- Authors: Greyling, Grant André
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Outdoor recreation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Outdoor recreation industry -- South Africa , Parks -- Public use -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7483 , vital:21787
- Description: The main research problem of this study was to investigate underlying factors, which influence people in the use of outdoor gyms in South Africa. The main research problem gave rise to five research sub-problems. The sub-problems were addressed by the following actions. A literature study was conducted to investigate theories explaining human behaviour. Particular attention was given to the Theory of Planned Behaviour, which provided the basis for the research design. A pilot study was conducted with ten members in the sample group to identify accessible behavioural, normative and control beliefs in order to construct a list of modal accessible beliefs, reflective of the most commonly held beliefs for the population. A standard questionnaire was developed, incorporating Ajzen’s (2002) conceptual and methodological considerations. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 974 members of the public from diverse backgrounds. The response rate was 21%, with 203 questionnaires being returned. The final sample size was 156, due to 47 questionnaires being incorrectly completed. The results from the study were largely consistent with the existing literature. A remarkable finding was the strong degree of multi-collinearity displayed between attitude and subjective norms. For this reason, t-stats were used (instead of regression coefficients) to compare the strength of the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. The model explained 34% of the variation in intention to use an outdoor gym. Subjective norms had the strongest significant effect on intentions. Outdoor gym installations are growing globally, as well as in South Africa and local governments regard outdoor gyms as an inexpensive solution to improving public health (Madren, 2013). This study can assist in the design of future physical activity intervention programs. The findings of the study are important as there are a number of public benefits of exercising at outdoor gyms (Madren, 2013: 1). The results of the study revealed the importance of subjective norms in the context of outdoor gyms. The findings further suggested that a special relationship existed between attitudes and subjective norms, which should be considered for effective health interventions. The role of perceived behaviour control is also significant and intervention campaigns should consider a number of proposals suggested in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Greyling, Grant André
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Outdoor recreation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Outdoor recreation industry -- South Africa , Parks -- Public use -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7483 , vital:21787
- Description: The main research problem of this study was to investigate underlying factors, which influence people in the use of outdoor gyms in South Africa. The main research problem gave rise to five research sub-problems. The sub-problems were addressed by the following actions. A literature study was conducted to investigate theories explaining human behaviour. Particular attention was given to the Theory of Planned Behaviour, which provided the basis for the research design. A pilot study was conducted with ten members in the sample group to identify accessible behavioural, normative and control beliefs in order to construct a list of modal accessible beliefs, reflective of the most commonly held beliefs for the population. A standard questionnaire was developed, incorporating Ajzen’s (2002) conceptual and methodological considerations. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 974 members of the public from diverse backgrounds. The response rate was 21%, with 203 questionnaires being returned. The final sample size was 156, due to 47 questionnaires being incorrectly completed. The results from the study were largely consistent with the existing literature. A remarkable finding was the strong degree of multi-collinearity displayed between attitude and subjective norms. For this reason, t-stats were used (instead of regression coefficients) to compare the strength of the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. The model explained 34% of the variation in intention to use an outdoor gym. Subjective norms had the strongest significant effect on intentions. Outdoor gym installations are growing globally, as well as in South Africa and local governments regard outdoor gyms as an inexpensive solution to improving public health (Madren, 2013). This study can assist in the design of future physical activity intervention programs. The findings of the study are important as there are a number of public benefits of exercising at outdoor gyms (Madren, 2013: 1). The results of the study revealed the importance of subjective norms in the context of outdoor gyms. The findings further suggested that a special relationship existed between attitudes and subjective norms, which should be considered for effective health interventions. The role of perceived behaviour control is also significant and intervention campaigns should consider a number of proposals suggested in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The urban housing crisis in Zimbambwe :a case of city of Harare
- Authors: Mhakakora, Tafadza Clemence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Housing -- Zimbabwe Housing development -- Zimbabwe Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5148 , vital:29091
- Description: The issue of human settlements has recently gained much momentum particularly in cities across the world due to rapid rates of urbanization. The housing crisis is manifesting mostly in the cities of the developing countries; the urban poor population is left with no option, they are continuously living in substandard and unsustainable housing conditions due to the desperate housing need. There is a growing trend of migration into urban centers in the developing countries as well as natural population increase in the cities. The inevitable development is the rapid growth of urbanization. The theories on urbanization suggest that the responsible government and local council authorities must be prepared to address socio-economic issues such as the provision of formal housing, infrastructure development and employment creation. The governments in developing countries are struggling to balance economic development and the provision of social services. As a result, the human settlement sector is suffering lack of prioritization when it comes to budget and resource allocation. The resultant factors are the overcrowding of the urban population, high housing backlogs and dilapidation of infrastructure visible mostly in the major cities of the developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mhakakora, Tafadza Clemence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Housing -- Zimbabwe Housing development -- Zimbabwe Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5148 , vital:29091
- Description: The issue of human settlements has recently gained much momentum particularly in cities across the world due to rapid rates of urbanization. The housing crisis is manifesting mostly in the cities of the developing countries; the urban poor population is left with no option, they are continuously living in substandard and unsustainable housing conditions due to the desperate housing need. There is a growing trend of migration into urban centers in the developing countries as well as natural population increase in the cities. The inevitable development is the rapid growth of urbanization. The theories on urbanization suggest that the responsible government and local council authorities must be prepared to address socio-economic issues such as the provision of formal housing, infrastructure development and employment creation. The governments in developing countries are struggling to balance economic development and the provision of social services. As a result, the human settlement sector is suffering lack of prioritization when it comes to budget and resource allocation. The resultant factors are the overcrowding of the urban population, high housing backlogs and dilapidation of infrastructure visible mostly in the major cities of the developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The trophic and spatial ecology of juvenile porcupine rays Urogymnus asperrimus at the remote St. Joseph Atoll
- Authors: Elston, Chantel
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/965 , vital:20007
- Description: Little information exists for the widely occurring but rare porcupine ray Urogymnus asperrimus. This is a concern given that it is a vulnerable species and likely plays an important ecological role in tropical atoll ecosystems. The aims of this thesis were to investigate the trophic and spatial ecology of juvenile porcupine rays within the St. Joseph Atoll, which is hypothesized to be functioning as a nursery for this species. Specific objectives were to determine i) the dietary composition and resource selectivity displayed by juvenile porcupine rays, ii) residency to the atoll, space use, and seasonality in movements, and iii) whether environmental factors affect short-term movements. Gastric lavage was used to collect stomach contents from 55 juveniles and sediment samples were collected. Thirteen juveniles were implanted with acoustic transmitters and monitored for a year by an array of 88 acoustic receivers situated in and around the St. Joseph Atoll. Porcupine rays appeared to be generalist and opportunistic feeders, foraging predominantly on annelids with the highest environmental availability. Polychaetes of the family Capitellidae were the most important prey item (Index of Importance = 35%). Rays only fed on deep infaunal prey, likely because of their foraging behaviour, suggesting they may influence this community. There was a size-related shift in the crustacean families consumed. The tagged rays displayed high residency to the atoll (mean residency index of 64%) and restricted movements, with small core use and activity space areas (mean of 0.5km² and 3km² respectively) and the majority of detections were recorded within 1km of their tagging locations. The rays favoured the sand ats where 88% of detections occurred. Transient use of the lagoon and fringe reef peaked in the north-west monsoon season, indicating a seasonal usage of these habitats. The effects of temperature and water depth on movements were manifested as diel and tidal cyclical patterns in presence. Evidence illustrates that the St. Joseph Atoll constitutes an important nursery for this species, which has been declared a Marine Protected Area. A major determinant behind the dependence of this nursery habitat is related to predator avoidance. Thermoregulatory behaviours were identified, suggesting that this species is vulnerable to climate change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Elston, Chantel
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/965 , vital:20007
- Description: Little information exists for the widely occurring but rare porcupine ray Urogymnus asperrimus. This is a concern given that it is a vulnerable species and likely plays an important ecological role in tropical atoll ecosystems. The aims of this thesis were to investigate the trophic and spatial ecology of juvenile porcupine rays within the St. Joseph Atoll, which is hypothesized to be functioning as a nursery for this species. Specific objectives were to determine i) the dietary composition and resource selectivity displayed by juvenile porcupine rays, ii) residency to the atoll, space use, and seasonality in movements, and iii) whether environmental factors affect short-term movements. Gastric lavage was used to collect stomach contents from 55 juveniles and sediment samples were collected. Thirteen juveniles were implanted with acoustic transmitters and monitored for a year by an array of 88 acoustic receivers situated in and around the St. Joseph Atoll. Porcupine rays appeared to be generalist and opportunistic feeders, foraging predominantly on annelids with the highest environmental availability. Polychaetes of the family Capitellidae were the most important prey item (Index of Importance = 35%). Rays only fed on deep infaunal prey, likely because of their foraging behaviour, suggesting they may influence this community. There was a size-related shift in the crustacean families consumed. The tagged rays displayed high residency to the atoll (mean residency index of 64%) and restricted movements, with small core use and activity space areas (mean of 0.5km² and 3km² respectively) and the majority of detections were recorded within 1km of their tagging locations. The rays favoured the sand ats where 88% of detections occurred. Transient use of the lagoon and fringe reef peaked in the north-west monsoon season, indicating a seasonal usage of these habitats. The effects of temperature and water depth on movements were manifested as diel and tidal cyclical patterns in presence. Evidence illustrates that the St. Joseph Atoll constitutes an important nursery for this species, which has been declared a Marine Protected Area. A major determinant behind the dependence of this nursery habitat is related to predator avoidance. Thermoregulatory behaviours were identified, suggesting that this species is vulnerable to climate change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The taxability of rewards from suppliers
- Authors: Akoonjie, Ahmed Hassen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Taxation -- South Africa Industrial procurement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11253 , vital:26902
- Description: Successful business in today’s competitive climate thrives on building relationships with one’s suppliers, clientele and employees. Businesses, as a form of strategic engagement, extend their appreciation and recognition to these key role players with rewards (or incentives) such as prizes, holidays and free goods and/or services. This treatise examines the taxation implications of such rewards and determines that the market value thereof should be taxed in the hands of their recipients. This study also investigates possible indicators (or points of reference) to establish such market value and suggests alternate values that may be ascribed thereto for inclusion in the recipient’s gross income. Where the rewards are passed onwards by the recipient to its employees, fringe benefit consequences are occasioned and this study observes that the market value thereof should be taxed in the employees’ hands. The study goes on further to consider the position of the supplier (or provider) of the rewards and finds that the supplier is entitled to a deduction of the cost of the rewards it has provided to its clients or customers. This study also reflects upon the penal implications of not including the market value of rewards in gross income and notes that such non-inclusion constitutes a fiscal loss and is subject to an understatement penalty. Key recommendations on how such omission may be addressed by the tax authorities are also presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Akoonjie, Ahmed Hassen
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Taxation -- South Africa Industrial procurement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11253 , vital:26902
- Description: Successful business in today’s competitive climate thrives on building relationships with one’s suppliers, clientele and employees. Businesses, as a form of strategic engagement, extend their appreciation and recognition to these key role players with rewards (or incentives) such as prizes, holidays and free goods and/or services. This treatise examines the taxation implications of such rewards and determines that the market value thereof should be taxed in the hands of their recipients. This study also investigates possible indicators (or points of reference) to establish such market value and suggests alternate values that may be ascribed thereto for inclusion in the recipient’s gross income. Where the rewards are passed onwards by the recipient to its employees, fringe benefit consequences are occasioned and this study observes that the market value thereof should be taxed in the employees’ hands. The study goes on further to consider the position of the supplier (or provider) of the rewards and finds that the supplier is entitled to a deduction of the cost of the rewards it has provided to its clients or customers. This study also reflects upon the penal implications of not including the market value of rewards in gross income and notes that such non-inclusion constitutes a fiscal loss and is subject to an understatement penalty. Key recommendations on how such omission may be addressed by the tax authorities are also presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The tax benefits available to investors in immovable property in South Africa
- Authors: Baines, Daniel
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4026 , vital:20589
- Description: The object of this thesis is to provide guidelines relating to the tax benefits that are available to investors in immovable property in South Africa. This was done by analysing the various sections of the Income Tax Act, as well as case law and South African Revenue Service guidelines that interpret these sections, which provide for expenditure which may be deducted by taxpayers from their income when conducting the trade of letting immovable property in order to reduce their overall tax liability. The thesis also includes a chapter dealing with the four different types of vehicles that taxpayers may use when investing in property. It was found that there are significant tax benefits available to investors in immovable property through the general deductions provided in terms of section 11(a) of the Act, as well as the specific deductions that the legislature has promulgated for investors in immovable property. It was also found that each of the four vehicles has its own advantages and that a taxpayer’s personal circumstances will dictate which of the vehicles will best suit his or her needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Baines, Daniel
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4026 , vital:20589
- Description: The object of this thesis is to provide guidelines relating to the tax benefits that are available to investors in immovable property in South Africa. This was done by analysing the various sections of the Income Tax Act, as well as case law and South African Revenue Service guidelines that interpret these sections, which provide for expenditure which may be deducted by taxpayers from their income when conducting the trade of letting immovable property in order to reduce their overall tax liability. The thesis also includes a chapter dealing with the four different types of vehicles that taxpayers may use when investing in property. It was found that there are significant tax benefits available to investors in immovable property through the general deductions provided in terms of section 11(a) of the Act, as well as the specific deductions that the legislature has promulgated for investors in immovable property. It was also found that each of the four vehicles has its own advantages and that a taxpayer’s personal circumstances will dictate which of the vehicles will best suit his or her needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The smell hits you first
- Authors: Ndoro, Tariro
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:6016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021236
- Description: This collection of poems and prose poems is a record of my life, from growing up in the small town of Bindura in Zimbabwe to landing in the small town of Grahamstown in South Africa. It is a story of dislocation: physical, emotional, and political. It is a story about borders and boundaries; although not rich, I was raised among the rich; although not white, I spent a considerable part of my childhood in white spaces. These fragments are told through the voice of my younger self and also retrospectively by my adult self. Two important influences on my style and my struggle to write about my identity have been Woman Hollering Creek by Latino American author Sandra Cisneros and Citizen: An American Lyric by US poet Claudia Rankine.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ndoro, Tariro
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:6016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021236
- Description: This collection of poems and prose poems is a record of my life, from growing up in the small town of Bindura in Zimbabwe to landing in the small town of Grahamstown in South Africa. It is a story of dislocation: physical, emotional, and political. It is a story about borders and boundaries; although not rich, I was raised among the rich; although not white, I spent a considerable part of my childhood in white spaces. These fragments are told through the voice of my younger self and also retrospectively by my adult self. Two important influences on my style and my struggle to write about my identity have been Woman Hollering Creek by Latino American author Sandra Cisneros and Citizen: An American Lyric by US poet Claudia Rankine.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The selection and evaluation of a sensory technology for interaction in a warehouse environment
- Zadeh, Seyed Amirsaleh Saleh, Greyling, Jean
- Authors: Zadeh, Seyed Amirsaleh Saleh , Greyling, Jean
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction User interfaces (Computer systems) Computer architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13193 , vital:27160
- Description: In recent years, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) has become a significant part of modern life as it has improved human performance in the completion of daily tasks in using computerised systems. The increase in the variety of bio-sensing and wearable technologies on the market has propelled designers towards designing more efficient, effective and fully natural User-Interfaces (UI), such as the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) and the Muscle-Computer Interface (MCI). BCI and MCI have been used for various purposes, such as controlling wheelchairs, piloting drones, providing alphanumeric inputs into a system and improving sports performance. Various challenges are experienced by workers in a warehouse environment. Because they often have to carry objects (referred to as hands-full) it is difficult to interact with traditional devices. Noise undeniably exists in some industrial environments and it is known as a major factor that causes communication problems. This has reduced the popularity of using verbal interfaces with computer applications, such as Warehouse Management Systems. Another factor that effects the performance of workers are action slips caused by a lack of concentration during, for example, routine picking activities. This can have a negative impact on job performance and allow a worker to incorrectly execute a task in a warehouse environment. This research project investigated the current challenges workers experience in a warehouse environment and the technologies utilised in this environment. The latest automation and identification systems and technologies are identified and discussed, specifically the technologies which have addressed known problems. Sensory technologies were identified that enable interaction between a human and a computerised warehouse environment. Biological and natural behaviours of humans which are applicable in the interaction with a computerised environment were described and discussed. The interactive behaviours included the visionary, auditory, speech production and physiological movement where other natural human behaviours such paying attention, action slips and the action of counting items were investigated. A number of modern sensory technologies, devices and techniques for HCI were identified with the aim of selecting and evaluating an appropriate sensory technology for MCI. iii MCI technologies enable a computer system to recognise hand and other gestures of a user, creating means of direct interaction between a user and a computer as they are able to detect specific features extracted from a specific biological or physiological activity. Thereafter, Machine Learning (ML) is applied in order to train a computer system to detect these features and convert them to a computer interface. An application of biomedical signals (bio-signals) in HCI using a MYO Armband for MCI is presented. An MCI prototype (MCIp) was developed and implemented to allow a user to provide input to an HCI, in a hands-free and hands-full situation. The MCIp was designed and developed to recognise the hand-finger gestures of a person when both hands are free or when holding an object, such a cardboard box. The MCIp applies an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to classify features extracted from the surface Electromyography signals acquired by the MYO Armband around the forearm muscle. The MCIp provided the results of data classification for gesture recognition to an accuracy level of 34.87% with a hands-free situation. This was done by employing the ANN. The MCIp, furthermore, enabled users to provide numeric inputs to the MCIp system hands-full with an accuracy of 59.7% after a training session for each gesture of only 10 seconds. The results were obtained using eight participants. Similar experimentation with the MYO Armband has not been found to be reported in any literature at submission of this document. Based on this novel experimentation, the main contribution of this research study is a suggestion that the application of a MYO Armband, as a commercially available muscle-sensing device on the market, has the potential as an MCI to recognise the finger gestures hands-free and hands-full. An accurate MCI can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of an HCI tool when it is applied to different applications in a warehouse where noise and hands-full activities pose a challenge. Future work to improve its accuracy is proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Zadeh, Seyed Amirsaleh Saleh , Greyling, Jean
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction User interfaces (Computer systems) Computer architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13193 , vital:27160
- Description: In recent years, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) has become a significant part of modern life as it has improved human performance in the completion of daily tasks in using computerised systems. The increase in the variety of bio-sensing and wearable technologies on the market has propelled designers towards designing more efficient, effective and fully natural User-Interfaces (UI), such as the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) and the Muscle-Computer Interface (MCI). BCI and MCI have been used for various purposes, such as controlling wheelchairs, piloting drones, providing alphanumeric inputs into a system and improving sports performance. Various challenges are experienced by workers in a warehouse environment. Because they often have to carry objects (referred to as hands-full) it is difficult to interact with traditional devices. Noise undeniably exists in some industrial environments and it is known as a major factor that causes communication problems. This has reduced the popularity of using verbal interfaces with computer applications, such as Warehouse Management Systems. Another factor that effects the performance of workers are action slips caused by a lack of concentration during, for example, routine picking activities. This can have a negative impact on job performance and allow a worker to incorrectly execute a task in a warehouse environment. This research project investigated the current challenges workers experience in a warehouse environment and the technologies utilised in this environment. The latest automation and identification systems and technologies are identified and discussed, specifically the technologies which have addressed known problems. Sensory technologies were identified that enable interaction between a human and a computerised warehouse environment. Biological and natural behaviours of humans which are applicable in the interaction with a computerised environment were described and discussed. The interactive behaviours included the visionary, auditory, speech production and physiological movement where other natural human behaviours such paying attention, action slips and the action of counting items were investigated. A number of modern sensory technologies, devices and techniques for HCI were identified with the aim of selecting and evaluating an appropriate sensory technology for MCI. iii MCI technologies enable a computer system to recognise hand and other gestures of a user, creating means of direct interaction between a user and a computer as they are able to detect specific features extracted from a specific biological or physiological activity. Thereafter, Machine Learning (ML) is applied in order to train a computer system to detect these features and convert them to a computer interface. An application of biomedical signals (bio-signals) in HCI using a MYO Armband for MCI is presented. An MCI prototype (MCIp) was developed and implemented to allow a user to provide input to an HCI, in a hands-free and hands-full situation. The MCIp was designed and developed to recognise the hand-finger gestures of a person when both hands are free or when holding an object, such a cardboard box. The MCIp applies an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to classify features extracted from the surface Electromyography signals acquired by the MYO Armband around the forearm muscle. The MCIp provided the results of data classification for gesture recognition to an accuracy level of 34.87% with a hands-free situation. This was done by employing the ANN. The MCIp, furthermore, enabled users to provide numeric inputs to the MCIp system hands-full with an accuracy of 59.7% after a training session for each gesture of only 10 seconds. The results were obtained using eight participants. Similar experimentation with the MYO Armband has not been found to be reported in any literature at submission of this document. Based on this novel experimentation, the main contribution of this research study is a suggestion that the application of a MYO Armband, as a commercially available muscle-sensing device on the market, has the potential as an MCI to recognise the finger gestures hands-free and hands-full. An accurate MCI can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of an HCI tool when it is applied to different applications in a warehouse where noise and hands-full activities pose a challenge. Future work to improve its accuracy is proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of women in black family business in South Africa
- Authors: Mrara,Lulama
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa Women -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Women in the professions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12253 , vital:27048
- Description: Family businesses are major contributors to economies around the world. It is also recognised that family businesses are critical to entrepreneurship, socio- economic development and industrialisation around the world. Women in family business are major contributors to the success of the family business around the world. Limited research is available on the role of women in family business. The research conducted yielded similar results for South Africa. The impact of family business on entrepreneurship and the economy, with respect to socio- economic development, has placed great interest in family business studies in South Africa. This study focused on the role of women in black family business in South Africa. This research found that women in black family business focus on bringing softer skills to the business which are beneficial for people management. In their capacity as managers in the family business, women tend to take on a supportive role to the spouse; they tend to focus on ensuring a harmonious and peaceful culture in the work place. Women in family business have a dual role of ensuring business success and quality family life. They prefer to work in the shadow of their male counterparts. Challenges faced by women in black family business have been identified as the lack of inclusion in strategic decision- making, lack of decision-making career opportunities and the lack of consideration for succession within the business, a lack of business mentorship and ambiguity of roles in the business and in the family. It has been found that the role of women in black family business may be enhanced going forward. This may be done through educational programmes or workshops for management skills for women, networking opportunities and support groups, counselling on work/family management strategies, and spousal sharing of responsibilities in the work- family management relationship. A suggested area for future research is the impact of culture in family business in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mrara,Lulama
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa Women -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Women in the professions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12253 , vital:27048
- Description: Family businesses are major contributors to economies around the world. It is also recognised that family businesses are critical to entrepreneurship, socio- economic development and industrialisation around the world. Women in family business are major contributors to the success of the family business around the world. Limited research is available on the role of women in family business. The research conducted yielded similar results for South Africa. The impact of family business on entrepreneurship and the economy, with respect to socio- economic development, has placed great interest in family business studies in South Africa. This study focused on the role of women in black family business in South Africa. This research found that women in black family business focus on bringing softer skills to the business which are beneficial for people management. In their capacity as managers in the family business, women tend to take on a supportive role to the spouse; they tend to focus on ensuring a harmonious and peaceful culture in the work place. Women in family business have a dual role of ensuring business success and quality family life. They prefer to work in the shadow of their male counterparts. Challenges faced by women in black family business have been identified as the lack of inclusion in strategic decision- making, lack of decision-making career opportunities and the lack of consideration for succession within the business, a lack of business mentorship and ambiguity of roles in the business and in the family. It has been found that the role of women in black family business may be enhanced going forward. This may be done through educational programmes or workshops for management skills for women, networking opportunities and support groups, counselling on work/family management strategies, and spousal sharing of responsibilities in the work- family management relationship. A suggested area for future research is the impact of culture in family business in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of training and organizational support in strengthening GIS interns’ (‘incubants’) participation in workplace occupations: a case study of the Groen Sebenza internship project
- Authors: Madiba, Morakane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1330 , vital:20047
- Description: The cases in this study are embedded within a multi-layered, nested case study design. An in-depth exploration of each case is provided with a view to understand the ways in which the internship training in the incubation model strengthens the learning, experience, knowledge, skills and interest of the university graduate interns/incubants to prepare them for full participation in their communities of practice in workplaces. The case study of Groen Sebenza internship project works across more than 40 partnering organisations. It is using incubation model for the first time in the biodiversity sector which is why its training needs to be investigated. To examine this question “In what way can training and the organizational support, of the incubation model strengthen the learning, experience, knowledge, skills and interest of interns/incubants to prepare them towards full participation in workplace roles and responsibilities in biodiversity occupations?” the research was undertaken in the context of university graduate incubants/interns in the Geographic Information System (GIS) field from three host-organizations; Limpopo Economic Development Environment and Tourism (LEDET), Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) and South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). The participants of the study were purposefully selected. Data was collected twice (i.e. after the first seven months and then a follow-up interview was conducted after a further five months) during the first twelve months of the project in the form of interviews and observations. There was also ongoing data collected in the form of documents which focused on their participation in workplaces and training. Data was analysed using different layers of qualitative content analysis and examination of documents at different stages of the study. Through immersion with the data and literature insights were developed regarding the enablers and constraints of the training in the incubation model related to the GIS interns. These included:- 1. The twelve months period spent by the GIS incubants in the Groen Sebenza internship project was not enough to prepare them towards full participation in workplace roles and responsibilities in biodiversity occupations. 2. Internship training is not just a ‘passing insignificant episode of the lives of the incubants/newcomers’ [specifically those from disadvantaged communities] but is a ‘real source of hope’. 3. The investigated institutions (and their members) need to make a real effort to improve if they want to stay relevant and useful in the Groen Sebenza internship project. 4. The incubants and mentors need to make the process of reflexivity real and practical. 5. The 2.5 years incubation model has high potential to work if the institutions, the mentors and the mentees involved in GIS improve the challenges mentioned in the study. Drawing from the data and literature I have discussed and recommended a model which could assist in improving the internship programmes specifically for the university students who are from underprivileged communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Madiba, Morakane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1330 , vital:20047
- Description: The cases in this study are embedded within a multi-layered, nested case study design. An in-depth exploration of each case is provided with a view to understand the ways in which the internship training in the incubation model strengthens the learning, experience, knowledge, skills and interest of the university graduate interns/incubants to prepare them for full participation in their communities of practice in workplaces. The case study of Groen Sebenza internship project works across more than 40 partnering organisations. It is using incubation model for the first time in the biodiversity sector which is why its training needs to be investigated. To examine this question “In what way can training and the organizational support, of the incubation model strengthen the learning, experience, knowledge, skills and interest of interns/incubants to prepare them towards full participation in workplace roles and responsibilities in biodiversity occupations?” the research was undertaken in the context of university graduate incubants/interns in the Geographic Information System (GIS) field from three host-organizations; Limpopo Economic Development Environment and Tourism (LEDET), Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) and South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). The participants of the study were purposefully selected. Data was collected twice (i.e. after the first seven months and then a follow-up interview was conducted after a further five months) during the first twelve months of the project in the form of interviews and observations. There was also ongoing data collected in the form of documents which focused on their participation in workplaces and training. Data was analysed using different layers of qualitative content analysis and examination of documents at different stages of the study. Through immersion with the data and literature insights were developed regarding the enablers and constraints of the training in the incubation model related to the GIS interns. These included:- 1. The twelve months period spent by the GIS incubants in the Groen Sebenza internship project was not enough to prepare them towards full participation in workplace roles and responsibilities in biodiversity occupations. 2. Internship training is not just a ‘passing insignificant episode of the lives of the incubants/newcomers’ [specifically those from disadvantaged communities] but is a ‘real source of hope’. 3. The investigated institutions (and their members) need to make a real effort to improve if they want to stay relevant and useful in the Groen Sebenza internship project. 4. The incubants and mentors need to make the process of reflexivity real and practical. 5. The 2.5 years incubation model has high potential to work if the institutions, the mentors and the mentees involved in GIS improve the challenges mentioned in the study. Drawing from the data and literature I have discussed and recommended a model which could assist in improving the internship programmes specifically for the university students who are from underprivileged communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of the head of department in maintaining the motivation of English first additional langauge teachers teaching in educationally deprived communities
- Authors: Nombewu, Sakhiwo Bridget
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Motivation in education -- South Africa Second language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11887 , vital:27001
- Description: The purpose of the study was twofold. The first purpose was to determine the role of the Head of Department in maintaining the motivation of English first additional language teachers in deprived communities. The role of the Head of Department will depend on factors that motivate and demotivate EFAL teachers and the influence of demographic factors on the motivators and demotivators reported by the participants. The second purpose was to establish the expectations that EFAL teachers have of their Heads of Departments in order to gain an understanding of the role that the Head of Departments can play in the motivation of the EFAL teachers teaching in schools situated in educationally deprived communities. This study not only aimed at presenting the findings but to also develop recommendations that can be formulated for the Head of Departments of English first additional language department of high schools situated in educationally deprived communities with regard to supporting the motivation of teachers. To this end, a literature study was undertaken on relevant theories and on the results of previous research on the issue. The research design was a mix-methods design. The questionnaire for collecting both qualitative and quantitative data was designed in line with instruments used in similar research studies on English FAL teacher motivation by Bennell and Akyempong (2007), Kassagby, et al. (2001) and Yau (2010). The questionnaire was administered to EFAL teachers teaching at high schools located in educationally deprived communities in the Nelson Mandela Metropole where isiXhosa is the home language of the learners and English is the medium of instruction. It was discovered that the main factors influencing teachers in the context of EFAL teaching in educationally deprived communities include the culture of teaching and learning of the school, the teacher’s interaction with learners, colleagues and the recognition and feedback associated with supervision of curriculum implementation. It was found that demotivated learners, unsupportive colleagues and unprofessional or unethical practices by the Head of Department to be the most demotivating factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nombewu, Sakhiwo Bridget
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Motivation in education -- South Africa Second language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11887 , vital:27001
- Description: The purpose of the study was twofold. The first purpose was to determine the role of the Head of Department in maintaining the motivation of English first additional language teachers in deprived communities. The role of the Head of Department will depend on factors that motivate and demotivate EFAL teachers and the influence of demographic factors on the motivators and demotivators reported by the participants. The second purpose was to establish the expectations that EFAL teachers have of their Heads of Departments in order to gain an understanding of the role that the Head of Departments can play in the motivation of the EFAL teachers teaching in schools situated in educationally deprived communities. This study not only aimed at presenting the findings but to also develop recommendations that can be formulated for the Head of Departments of English first additional language department of high schools situated in educationally deprived communities with regard to supporting the motivation of teachers. To this end, a literature study was undertaken on relevant theories and on the results of previous research on the issue. The research design was a mix-methods design. The questionnaire for collecting both qualitative and quantitative data was designed in line with instruments used in similar research studies on English FAL teacher motivation by Bennell and Akyempong (2007), Kassagby, et al. (2001) and Yau (2010). The questionnaire was administered to EFAL teachers teaching at high schools located in educationally deprived communities in the Nelson Mandela Metropole where isiXhosa is the home language of the learners and English is the medium of instruction. It was discovered that the main factors influencing teachers in the context of EFAL teaching in educationally deprived communities include the culture of teaching and learning of the school, the teacher’s interaction with learners, colleagues and the recognition and feedback associated with supervision of curriculum implementation. It was found that demotivated learners, unsupportive colleagues and unprofessional or unethical practices by the Head of Department to be the most demotivating factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in rural agricultural development in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Bolana, Khayalethu Kenneth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8198 , vital:25965
- Description: The decline of sustainable farming in the past twenty years in the villages of Amahlathi Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province is a cause for concern as this has resulted in reduced food security and increased levels of poverty and unemployment in the villages. As this decline continues to escalate even to date, this study was intended to investigate the role that could be played by the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in the reduction of poverty through sustainable agricultural activities in these villages. Using a case study of Kubusi village in Amahlathi Local Municiplality, data was gathered through interviewing farming and non-farming households as well as the extension officer for Kubusi village and Dohne officials in order to understand the reasons for and the nature of the decline in farming activities in the villages. The study was conducted against the background of sustainable liveIihood (SL) theory. Important findings revealed that economic factors, primarily lack of money to buy fence and hire tractors to plough are primary causes for the decline, this followed by the effects of global warming and the lack of interest by the young generation to participate in crop farming. The study recommends that the government of the Eastern Cape should intervene through the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in reskilling rural people in modern farming methods and assisting rural farmers with inputs, primarily fence, tractors and irrigation systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bolana, Khayalethu Kenneth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8198 , vital:25965
- Description: The decline of sustainable farming in the past twenty years in the villages of Amahlathi Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province is a cause for concern as this has resulted in reduced food security and increased levels of poverty and unemployment in the villages. As this decline continues to escalate even to date, this study was intended to investigate the role that could be played by the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in the reduction of poverty through sustainable agricultural activities in these villages. Using a case study of Kubusi village in Amahlathi Local Municiplality, data was gathered through interviewing farming and non-farming households as well as the extension officer for Kubusi village and Dohne officials in order to understand the reasons for and the nature of the decline in farming activities in the villages. The study was conducted against the background of sustainable liveIihood (SL) theory. Important findings revealed that economic factors, primarily lack of money to buy fence and hire tractors to plough are primary causes for the decline, this followed by the effects of global warming and the lack of interest by the young generation to participate in crop farming. The study recommends that the government of the Eastern Cape should intervene through the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute in reskilling rural people in modern farming methods and assisting rural farmers with inputs, primarily fence, tractors and irrigation systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016