A needs-ICTD strategy alignment framework foundation for the measurement of ICTD impact
- Authors: Baduza, Gugulethu Qhawekazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Siyakhula Living Lab SAP Research Needs assessment -- Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies Information technology -- South Africa -- Management -- Case studies Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa Rural development -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Rural development -- South Africa -- Sociological aspects Rural development projects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1155 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011116
- Description: Many Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICTD) projects are established with the overall aim of positively developing the communities they are implemented in. However, the solutions that are provided are often commonly developed without the needs of these communities being sufficiently investigated beforehand. As a result the ICTD strategy of the project ends up not well aligned with the aims and targets of the needs of the community. As a result of this, an appropriate programme theory for the project and relevant impact indicators fail to be adequately developed. Consequently, when an impact assessment is conducted it is often found that the intended effects are not directly linked to the needs of the community or what the community had hoped to gain from the ICTD initiative. The purpose of this research serves to develop a needs-ICTD strategy alignment foundation that supports the identification and formulation of impact assessment indicators. Through this research, a framework is developed to support the alignment of ICTD strategy, the development and the promotion of contextual needs of rural communities and other frequently marginalized areas. The Needs-ICTD strategy alignment framework is composed of eight main components that describe the process that can be used to align ICTD strategy with community needs. These components include: collaboration between the internal and external stakeholders, the development of the community, conducting baseline studies, the needs assessment, the ICTD strategy, linking of the needs-ICTD strategy, and lastly the identification of impact indicators. An interpretive research approach is used to explore and inform the framework through a multi-case study investigation of the Siyakhula Living Lab and two projects in the Systems Application Products (SAP) Living Lab. Two main case study questions drive the exploration of the framework, that being: 1) How are the needs of the community elicited and how is the ICTD strategy aligned to the needs of the community? 2) And, why were the selected approaches chosen for aligning the needs of the community and ICTD strategy? Data for this research was collected qualitatively through interviews, document analysis and participant observation. Key findings indicate that the involvement of internal (local) stakeholders in the development and alignment of ICTD strategy to the needs of the community is still lacking. As a consequence, many community members end up not fully understanding the project objectives and how these objectives aims are to be achieved. The research also finds that ‘solution specific’ projects also fail communities as they focus specifically on one target group and repeatedly fail to assist the community holistically in supporting their information and their community development needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Baduza, Gugulethu Qhawekazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Siyakhula Living Lab SAP Research Needs assessment -- Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies Information technology -- South Africa -- Management -- Case studies Information technology -- Social aspects -- South Africa Rural development -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Rural development -- South Africa -- Sociological aspects Rural development projects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1155 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011116
- Description: Many Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICTD) projects are established with the overall aim of positively developing the communities they are implemented in. However, the solutions that are provided are often commonly developed without the needs of these communities being sufficiently investigated beforehand. As a result the ICTD strategy of the project ends up not well aligned with the aims and targets of the needs of the community. As a result of this, an appropriate programme theory for the project and relevant impact indicators fail to be adequately developed. Consequently, when an impact assessment is conducted it is often found that the intended effects are not directly linked to the needs of the community or what the community had hoped to gain from the ICTD initiative. The purpose of this research serves to develop a needs-ICTD strategy alignment foundation that supports the identification and formulation of impact assessment indicators. Through this research, a framework is developed to support the alignment of ICTD strategy, the development and the promotion of contextual needs of rural communities and other frequently marginalized areas. The Needs-ICTD strategy alignment framework is composed of eight main components that describe the process that can be used to align ICTD strategy with community needs. These components include: collaboration between the internal and external stakeholders, the development of the community, conducting baseline studies, the needs assessment, the ICTD strategy, linking of the needs-ICTD strategy, and lastly the identification of impact indicators. An interpretive research approach is used to explore and inform the framework through a multi-case study investigation of the Siyakhula Living Lab and two projects in the Systems Application Products (SAP) Living Lab. Two main case study questions drive the exploration of the framework, that being: 1) How are the needs of the community elicited and how is the ICTD strategy aligned to the needs of the community? 2) And, why were the selected approaches chosen for aligning the needs of the community and ICTD strategy? Data for this research was collected qualitatively through interviews, document analysis and participant observation. Key findings indicate that the involvement of internal (local) stakeholders in the development and alignment of ICTD strategy to the needs of the community is still lacking. As a consequence, many community members end up not fully understanding the project objectives and how these objectives aims are to be achieved. The research also finds that ‘solution specific’ projects also fail communities as they focus specifically on one target group and repeatedly fail to assist the community holistically in supporting their information and their community development needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A new approach to obesity for health journalism: fit not fat
- Authors: Dugmore, Harry
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158620 , vital:40212 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC159484
- Description: Health journalism is a complicated beat. The science is easy to get wrong, and the tone and tenor of the reporting needs careful attention. Coverage of obesity is even more fraught. Early insights from an on-going research project by the Discovery Centre for Health Journalism suggests that not only is most journalism about obesity not helping - some reporting may inadvertently be making the situation worse. This needs to change. There is too much at stake for journalism about food, fat and fitness to be anything less than impactful and effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dugmore, Harry
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158620 , vital:40212 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC159484
- Description: Health journalism is a complicated beat. The science is easy to get wrong, and the tone and tenor of the reporting needs careful attention. Coverage of obesity is even more fraught. Early insights from an on-going research project by the Discovery Centre for Health Journalism suggests that not only is most journalism about obesity not helping - some reporting may inadvertently be making the situation worse. This needs to change. There is too much at stake for journalism about food, fat and fitness to be anything less than impactful and effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A new approach to representations of revolution
- Authors: Burke, Matthew Ainslie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Radicalism in literature , Radicalism in literature -- Moral and ethical aspects , Politics and literature -- Moral and ethical aspects , Revolutionary literature, English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013068
- Description: This project asserts that revolution is characterised by the expression of unthinkable possibilities, and so addresses the paradox implicit in any attempt to "write revolution." That is, how does one represent revolution without reducing it to an ordered term of reference, and thereby subduing its radical character? Additionally, can transformative action be conceptualised as a creative project to which an ethical subject may, and in fact should, be drawn? To answer these questions, my investigation develops in three strands. I combine the radical theory of Alain Badiou with similar affirmations of revolutionary intervention from Slavoj Žižek and Paulo Freire, and so create an aesthetic that affirms revolutionaries as agents of supplementary creativity. My first purpose is thus to establish revolution as a productive enterprise that enables peace, rather than a destructive undertaking that introduces violence. This done, I apply the resultant conceptual tools to literary representations of radical transformation, and demonstrate that my aesthetic enables new readings of the literature of revolution to which it is applied. In the course of my analysis, I also evaluate the suitability of Badiou's ethic as a standpoint from which to engage with literature on revolution. Ultimately, then, the aesthetic I construct not only contests the notion that radical transformation is always destructive, but also renders one sensitive to revolutionary literature's excessive and supplementary dimensions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Burke, Matthew Ainslie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Radicalism in literature , Radicalism in literature -- Moral and ethical aspects , Politics and literature -- Moral and ethical aspects , Revolutionary literature, English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013068
- Description: This project asserts that revolution is characterised by the expression of unthinkable possibilities, and so addresses the paradox implicit in any attempt to "write revolution." That is, how does one represent revolution without reducing it to an ordered term of reference, and thereby subduing its radical character? Additionally, can transformative action be conceptualised as a creative project to which an ethical subject may, and in fact should, be drawn? To answer these questions, my investigation develops in three strands. I combine the radical theory of Alain Badiou with similar affirmations of revolutionary intervention from Slavoj Žižek and Paulo Freire, and so create an aesthetic that affirms revolutionaries as agents of supplementary creativity. My first purpose is thus to establish revolution as a productive enterprise that enables peace, rather than a destructive undertaking that introduces violence. This done, I apply the resultant conceptual tools to literary representations of radical transformation, and demonstrate that my aesthetic enables new readings of the literature of revolution to which it is applied. In the course of my analysis, I also evaluate the suitability of Badiou's ethic as a standpoint from which to engage with literature on revolution. Ultimately, then, the aesthetic I construct not only contests the notion that radical transformation is always destructive, but also renders one sensitive to revolutionary literature's excessive and supplementary dimensions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A Note on the (Continued) Ability of the Yield Curve to Forecast Economic Downturns in South Africa
- Authors: Botha, Ferdi , Keeton, Gavin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/395994 , vital:69142 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/saje.12053"
- Description: In 2002-2003, the South African yield spread falsely signalled a downswing that never materialised. This paper provides two reasons for this false signal. First, while the Reserve Bank never actually officially declared the start of a downswing, by alternative measures a downswing did actually occur. It is this severe weakness in economic activity at that time that the yield curve pointed to. Second, short-term interest rates in 2003 were higher than they should have been because of a mistake made in measuring consumer price inflation. Because South Africa had recently introduced an inflation-targeting regime, policy interest rates were, as a result of this error, kept too high for too long. This policy mistake was rectified as soon as the error in the Consumer Price Index was discovered. Thus, the yield curve in 2003 pointed to the reality that short-term interest rates were too high and risked pushing the economy into full blown recession. This is demonstrated by the fact that it was a fall in long bond interest rates that caused the yield spread to turn negative, indicating expectations that short-term interest rates would need to be cut – as indeed they were.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Botha, Ferdi , Keeton, Gavin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/395994 , vital:69142 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/saje.12053"
- Description: In 2002-2003, the South African yield spread falsely signalled a downswing that never materialised. This paper provides two reasons for this false signal. First, while the Reserve Bank never actually officially declared the start of a downswing, by alternative measures a downswing did actually occur. It is this severe weakness in economic activity at that time that the yield curve pointed to. Second, short-term interest rates in 2003 were higher than they should have been because of a mistake made in measuring consumer price inflation. Because South Africa had recently introduced an inflation-targeting regime, policy interest rates were, as a result of this error, kept too high for too long. This policy mistake was rectified as soon as the error in the Consumer Price Index was discovered. Thus, the yield curve in 2003 pointed to the reality that short-term interest rates were too high and risked pushing the economy into full blown recession. This is demonstrated by the fact that it was a fall in long bond interest rates that caused the yield spread to turn negative, indicating expectations that short-term interest rates would need to be cut – as indeed they were.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A phenomenological study of the experiences of adolescents following maternal HIV-disclosure
- Sibanyoni, Sibongile Success
- Authors: Sibanyoni, Sibongile Success
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Transmission -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , HIV-positive youth -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Teenagers -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3231 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013125
- Description: Maternal HIV-disclosure to an adolescent is a controversial issue especially when considering the suitable time and context in which disclosure should take place. Furthermore there have been other considerations such as the adolescent’s emotional maturity as well as gender issues which have played a role in regards to determining whether the adolescent would be able to understand and cope effectively post-disclosure. These considerations formed the basis of this study’s aim and objectives which primarily focused on taking into account the developmental aspects apparent in the adolescent phase. These include adolescent’s relations with their mother, their peers and the meaning attached to having an education and career in their lives. For purposes of this study it was deemed important to actually explore with the adolescent’s the meaning they uphold pertaining to maternal HIVdisclosure. This differs from previous research which has focused predominantly on accessing adolescent’s experiences via their parents and in particular, their mothers. Data of only three participants was included following in-depth interviews being conducted. Data was analysed via Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) which enabled an enhanced understanding and meaningful interpretation of the adolescent’s experiences following maternal HIV-disclosure. From the findings it became apparent that most concerns had already been addressed and were similar when compared to previous research that had been conducted. However one notable different finding was that instead of adolescent’s acting in ways that would lead to them self-sabotaging their lives they instead portrayed themselves to be living in a responsible manner. It became apparent rather that it was the adolescent’s mother rather that became more inclined to engage in self-sabotaging behaviours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sibanyoni, Sibongile Success
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Transmission -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , HIV-positive youth -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Teenagers -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3231 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013125
- Description: Maternal HIV-disclosure to an adolescent is a controversial issue especially when considering the suitable time and context in which disclosure should take place. Furthermore there have been other considerations such as the adolescent’s emotional maturity as well as gender issues which have played a role in regards to determining whether the adolescent would be able to understand and cope effectively post-disclosure. These considerations formed the basis of this study’s aim and objectives which primarily focused on taking into account the developmental aspects apparent in the adolescent phase. These include adolescent’s relations with their mother, their peers and the meaning attached to having an education and career in their lives. For purposes of this study it was deemed important to actually explore with the adolescent’s the meaning they uphold pertaining to maternal HIVdisclosure. This differs from previous research which has focused predominantly on accessing adolescent’s experiences via their parents and in particular, their mothers. Data of only three participants was included following in-depth interviews being conducted. Data was analysed via Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) which enabled an enhanced understanding and meaningful interpretation of the adolescent’s experiences following maternal HIV-disclosure. From the findings it became apparent that most concerns had already been addressed and were similar when compared to previous research that had been conducted. However one notable different finding was that instead of adolescent’s acting in ways that would lead to them self-sabotaging their lives they instead portrayed themselves to be living in a responsible manner. It became apparent rather that it was the adolescent’s mother rather that became more inclined to engage in self-sabotaging behaviours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A phenominological study of young adults' experiences of facebook
- Authors: Prince, Inge
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Social networks , Online social networks , Internet -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021116
- Description: Social networking sites are a recent phenomenon and have experienced tremendous growth in popularity especially among young people. Social networking sites are changing the way individuals communicate with each other and the world. Social networking sites (SNS) provide users with a unique computer-mediated environment where individuals are able to disclose their thoughts, feelings, and experiences within their own social network. The present study aims to explore the experiences of young adults regarding Facebook. A transcendental phenomenological approach was used to elicit the essence of the experiences of the participants. Theoretical sampling ensured relevant participants were selected through haphazard sampling procedures. Data was collected through the use of biographical questionnaires and individual, semi-structured interviews. The data was processed according to the four phenomenological principles epoche, phenomenological reduction, imaginative variation and synthesis using Tesch’s eight steps. Lincoln and Guba’s model was used to assess the trustworthiness of the data obtained. The participants described their experiences of Facebook by highlighting how they use Facebook as a communication tool which assists them in their relationship maintenance with others. Participants use self-presentation on Facebook to manage how they are perceived. The participants experience Facebook as having many privacy risks. They indicated that Facebook has addictive qualities and facilitates cyber stalking behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Prince, Inge
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Teenagers -- Social networks , Online social networks , Internet -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021116
- Description: Social networking sites are a recent phenomenon and have experienced tremendous growth in popularity especially among young people. Social networking sites are changing the way individuals communicate with each other and the world. Social networking sites (SNS) provide users with a unique computer-mediated environment where individuals are able to disclose their thoughts, feelings, and experiences within their own social network. The present study aims to explore the experiences of young adults regarding Facebook. A transcendental phenomenological approach was used to elicit the essence of the experiences of the participants. Theoretical sampling ensured relevant participants were selected through haphazard sampling procedures. Data was collected through the use of biographical questionnaires and individual, semi-structured interviews. The data was processed according to the four phenomenological principles epoche, phenomenological reduction, imaginative variation and synthesis using Tesch’s eight steps. Lincoln and Guba’s model was used to assess the trustworthiness of the data obtained. The participants described their experiences of Facebook by highlighting how they use Facebook as a communication tool which assists them in their relationship maintenance with others. Participants use self-presentation on Facebook to manage how they are perceived. The participants experience Facebook as having many privacy risks. They indicated that Facebook has addictive qualities and facilitates cyber stalking behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A preliminary assessment linking altered catchment land-cover to the health of four temporarily open/closed South African estuaries
- Authors: Masefield, Vincent Antony
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4877 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013096
- Description: Estuaries worldwide are being subjected to various degrees of catchment degradation, which is having severe consequences on the integrity of these aquatic ecosystems and their ability to function properly. This thesis investigated the relationship between catchment land-cover and estuarine health in four temporarily open/closed estuarine systems (TOCEs) in South Africa, namely the Groot Brak, East Kleinemonde, Mdloti and Tongati. GIS techniques were employed to delineate catchments, lower sections of catchments, 1 km and 100 m buffer zones, and to quantify the extent of land-cover classes present within these delineations. Anthropogenic activities outlined by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) Resource Directed Measures (RDM) studies and their associated land-cover classes were described. The possible links between catchment and buffer zone land-cover class composition and health of the estuaries were explored. Results indicated that there was a relationship between catchment and estuarine health within the Coastal Protection Zone (CPZ) (1 km and 100 m) buffers, but not at a broader catchment level. Out of natural, urban built-up and cultivation land-cover classes, natural land was determined to be the best predictor of estuarine health within the CPZs. A method of rapidly assessing South African TOCE condition was applied and could be used to prioritise these estuaries for rehabilitation and/or conservation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Masefield, Vincent Antony
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4877 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013096
- Description: Estuaries worldwide are being subjected to various degrees of catchment degradation, which is having severe consequences on the integrity of these aquatic ecosystems and their ability to function properly. This thesis investigated the relationship between catchment land-cover and estuarine health in four temporarily open/closed estuarine systems (TOCEs) in South Africa, namely the Groot Brak, East Kleinemonde, Mdloti and Tongati. GIS techniques were employed to delineate catchments, lower sections of catchments, 1 km and 100 m buffer zones, and to quantify the extent of land-cover classes present within these delineations. Anthropogenic activities outlined by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) Resource Directed Measures (RDM) studies and their associated land-cover classes were described. The possible links between catchment and buffer zone land-cover class composition and health of the estuaries were explored. Results indicated that there was a relationship between catchment and estuarine health within the Coastal Protection Zone (CPZ) (1 km and 100 m) buffers, but not at a broader catchment level. Out of natural, urban built-up and cultivation land-cover classes, natural land was determined to be the best predictor of estuarine health within the CPZs. A method of rapidly assessing South African TOCE condition was applied and could be used to prioritise these estuaries for rehabilitation and/or conservation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A promising biological control agent for the invasive alien plant, Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae), in South Africa
- Paterson, Iain D, Mdodana, Lumka A, Mpekula, Ongezwa, Mabunda, Bheki D, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Mdodana, Lumka A , Mpekula, Ongezwa , Mabunda, Bheki D , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416806 , vital:71387 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2014.919439"
- Description: Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae) is an invasive alien plant from Central and South America that has become a problematic environmental weed in South Africa. A potential biological control agent, the stem-wilter, Catorhintha schaffneri Brailovsky and Garcia (Coreidae), was collected in southern Brazil and imported into quarantine in South Africa. Field host range data suggested that C. schaffneri has a host range restricted to P. aculeata. No-choice nymph survival tests were then conducted on 27 test plant species in 9 families. Survival to the adult stage was only recorded on P. aculeata and the closely related Pereskia grandifolia Haw. (Cactaceae). Mortality was significantly higher on P. grandifolia with only 3% of the nymphs reaching the adult stage compared with 74% on P. aculeata indicating that P. aculeata is the primary host plant. P. grandifolia is native in South America and is of no agricultural importance in South Africa so any feeding on P. grandifolia in South Africa would have no negative environmental or economic consequences. In other tests, adult survival on P. aculeata [25.8 days (SE ± 3.74)] was significantly longer than on other test plant species [4.3 days (SE ± 0.36)] further confirming the host specificity of the species. Impact studies conducted in quarantine indicated that C. schaffneri is damaging to P. aculeata, significantly reducing the number of leaves and the shoot lengths of plants, even at relatively low insect densities. C. schaffneri is safe for release in South Africa and is likely to be a damaging and effective agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Mdodana, Lumka A , Mpekula, Ongezwa , Mabunda, Bheki D , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416806 , vital:71387 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2014.919439"
- Description: Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae) is an invasive alien plant from Central and South America that has become a problematic environmental weed in South Africa. A potential biological control agent, the stem-wilter, Catorhintha schaffneri Brailovsky and Garcia (Coreidae), was collected in southern Brazil and imported into quarantine in South Africa. Field host range data suggested that C. schaffneri has a host range restricted to P. aculeata. No-choice nymph survival tests were then conducted on 27 test plant species in 9 families. Survival to the adult stage was only recorded on P. aculeata and the closely related Pereskia grandifolia Haw. (Cactaceae). Mortality was significantly higher on P. grandifolia with only 3% of the nymphs reaching the adult stage compared with 74% on P. aculeata indicating that P. aculeata is the primary host plant. P. grandifolia is native in South America and is of no agricultural importance in South Africa so any feeding on P. grandifolia in South Africa would have no negative environmental or economic consequences. In other tests, adult survival on P. aculeata [25.8 days (SE ± 3.74)] was significantly longer than on other test plant species [4.3 days (SE ± 0.36)] further confirming the host specificity of the species. Impact studies conducted in quarantine indicated that C. schaffneri is damaging to P. aculeata, significantly reducing the number of leaves and the shoot lengths of plants, even at relatively low insect densities. C. schaffneri is safe for release in South Africa and is likely to be a damaging and effective agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of Antwone Fisher
- Authors: Wannenburg, Nicola
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Fisher, Antwone Quenton , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Psychoanalysis , Abused children -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012939
- Description: Psychobiographical researchers methodically formulate life histories and interpret them by means of psychological theories. The research typically focuses on exemplary and completed lives. The cases that are studied are usually of individuals who are of particular interest to society as a result of excelling in their particular fields, be they to society’s benefit or detriment. Antwone Fisher was chosen for this study using purposive sampling as he meets the psychobiographical requirement of being an extraordinary individual. Fisher grew up in the Foster Care System and faced many abusive experiences as child. Despite difficult beginnings, Fisher developed into a stable and creative adult who excels as a poet, screenwriter and film director. The primary aim of this study is to describe and interpret the life of Antwone Fisher through Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. The data was processed and analysed using Miles and Hubermans’ general view of qualitative analyses as well as Alexander’s method of asking the data questions. This study contributes to the development of psychobiographical research in South Africa as well as to personality and developmental theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Wannenburg, Nicola
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Fisher, Antwone Quenton , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Psychoanalysis , Abused children -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012939
- Description: Psychobiographical researchers methodically formulate life histories and interpret them by means of psychological theories. The research typically focuses on exemplary and completed lives. The cases that are studied are usually of individuals who are of particular interest to society as a result of excelling in their particular fields, be they to society’s benefit or detriment. Antwone Fisher was chosen for this study using purposive sampling as he meets the psychobiographical requirement of being an extraordinary individual. Fisher grew up in the Foster Care System and faced many abusive experiences as child. Despite difficult beginnings, Fisher developed into a stable and creative adult who excels as a poet, screenwriter and film director. The primary aim of this study is to describe and interpret the life of Antwone Fisher through Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. The data was processed and analysed using Miles and Hubermans’ general view of qualitative analyses as well as Alexander’s method of asking the data questions. This study contributes to the development of psychobiographical research in South Africa as well as to personality and developmental theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of Christiaan Neethling Barnard
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Barnard, Christiaan, 1922-2001 , Surgeons -- South Africa -- Biography , Self-actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7836 , vital:24310
- Description: Dr. Christiaan Neethling Barnard (Barnard) was a world renowned surgeon who made medical history when he performed the world’s first human heart transplant. Barnard was celebrated by some for his courage and contribution in advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery, while others believed that the technique of human heart transplantation was not his own. Barnard became known for his controversial lifestyle, and acquired a reputation as a playboy. He died in 2001 at the age of 78, following an asthma attack. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Barnard, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology to the context of his lived life. The study used a single case study research design, and purposive sampling was used to select the subject. This selection was made on the basis of the researcher’s interest in Barnard’s life history and his immense contribution to medical science. Data sampled was qualitative, and was collected from primary and secondary data sources. Collected data was analysed in accordance with Alexander’s model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Barnard’s life was in many respects aligned with Adler’s theory and that his striving for significance was largely influenced by his social environment as well as the cultural context in which he lived.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Barnard, Christiaan, 1922-2001 , Surgeons -- South Africa -- Biography , Self-actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7836 , vital:24310
- Description: Dr. Christiaan Neethling Barnard (Barnard) was a world renowned surgeon who made medical history when he performed the world’s first human heart transplant. Barnard was celebrated by some for his courage and contribution in advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery, while others believed that the technique of human heart transplantation was not his own. Barnard became known for his controversial lifestyle, and acquired a reputation as a playboy. He died in 2001 at the age of 78, following an asthma attack. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Barnard, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology to the context of his lived life. The study used a single case study research design, and purposive sampling was used to select the subject. This selection was made on the basis of the researcher’s interest in Barnard’s life history and his immense contribution to medical science. Data sampled was qualitative, and was collected from primary and secondary data sources. Collected data was analysed in accordance with Alexander’s model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Barnard’s life was in many respects aligned with Adler’s theory and that his striving for significance was largely influenced by his social environment as well as the cultural context in which he lived.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of John Henry Newman
- Authors: Mitchell, Gregory Paul
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Newman, John Henry, 1801-1890 , Cardinals -- England -- Biography , Authors, English -- 19th century -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9981 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study, aiming to explore and describe the life of John Henry Newman (1801-1890), a theologian, priest, and cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, through the application of Erik Erikson’s theory of Psychosocial Development. Newman is a significant figure in the English-speaking Christian world and his life and thought remains of interest and importance, particularly in the fields of philosophy, theology, ecclesiology and education. Newman was beatified in 2010 and therefore this study also considers the hagiographical nature of biographical data. This study utilises a qualitative single case study approach and the subject was selected through purposive sampling based on interest value. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources to enhance validity. The data were analysed by organising and reducing information obtained regarding Newman’s life and then displaying it for discussion. The study considers Newman’s life, reconstructed from birth, through adolescence and adulthood to his death and also considers his posthumous legacy. The main themes of discussion revolve around Newman’s development of his religious identity and his life as a churchman and an academic. It considers how a psychosocially functional individual such as Newman manifests certain dystonic, maladaptive or malignant tendencies such as doubt, shame, guilt and overextension, and how these impact the formation of religious identity and the experience of God and the spiritual life. Basic trust, celibate intimacy and generativity emerged as three significant areas of importance in the Newman’s life and identity. The study highlighted the value of psychobiographical studies and of Erikson’s theory in understanding development. Recommendations for future research in this field are made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality, religious identity and psychosocial development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mitchell, Gregory Paul
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Newman, John Henry, 1801-1890 , Cardinals -- England -- Biography , Authors, English -- 19th century -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9981 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study, aiming to explore and describe the life of John Henry Newman (1801-1890), a theologian, priest, and cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, through the application of Erik Erikson’s theory of Psychosocial Development. Newman is a significant figure in the English-speaking Christian world and his life and thought remains of interest and importance, particularly in the fields of philosophy, theology, ecclesiology and education. Newman was beatified in 2010 and therefore this study also considers the hagiographical nature of biographical data. This study utilises a qualitative single case study approach and the subject was selected through purposive sampling based on interest value. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources to enhance validity. The data were analysed by organising and reducing information obtained regarding Newman’s life and then displaying it for discussion. The study considers Newman’s life, reconstructed from birth, through adolescence and adulthood to his death and also considers his posthumous legacy. The main themes of discussion revolve around Newman’s development of his religious identity and his life as a churchman and an academic. It considers how a psychosocially functional individual such as Newman manifests certain dystonic, maladaptive or malignant tendencies such as doubt, shame, guilt and overextension, and how these impact the formation of religious identity and the experience of God and the spiritual life. Basic trust, celibate intimacy and generativity emerged as three significant areas of importance in the Newman’s life and identity. The study highlighted the value of psychobiographical studies and of Erikson’s theory in understanding development. Recommendations for future research in this field are made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality, religious identity and psychosocial development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of Steven Paul Jobs
- Authors: Moore, Noelle
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Computer engineers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9978 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021112
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the American entrepreneur and innovative co-founder of Apple Computers, Steven Paul Jobs (1955 – 2011). The psychobiographical research method qualitatively considers the lived life of an individual in an attempt to understand the psychological development in the context of applied psychological theory. A theoretical integration of Adler‘s Individual Psychology and Antonovsky‘s Sense of Coherence was utilized in the present study. This integrative approach facilitated a dynamic and holistic picture of the individual‘s functioning in illuminating not only personality but also the individual‘s social context, choice making capacity, general resistance resources and the individual‘s ‗meaning making‘ capacity in the strive towards health and superiority. Steven Paul Jobs revolutionised personal computing. Ranked as Forbes‘ seventeenth most powerful person and Man of the Year by The Financial Times in 2010, Jobs‘ contribution to modern technology is widely acknowledged and revered. To ensure the accurate description of the lived life of Steven Paul Jobs, extensive data was examined by utilizing Alexander‘s model of identifying salient themes. The study considered the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Alfred Adler and Aaron Antonovsky and the life of Steven Paul Jobs that resulted in an integrated psychological description of the subject. The findings of this study indicate that Steven Paul Jobs‘ unique context (environment and constitutional attributes) was valuable in light of the theoretical frameworks that the present study is grounded upon as it illustrated an individual‘s self-determination and capacity to exercise choice in response to life challenges. The study highlighted that the individual is not necessarily a passive bystander to his life events but rather is driven by an internal forward striving. Key concepts: Aaron Antonovsky, Alfred Adler, Apple Computers, Individual Psychology, Psychobiography, Sense of Coherence, Steven Paul Jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Moore, Noelle
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Computer engineers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9978 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021112
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the American entrepreneur and innovative co-founder of Apple Computers, Steven Paul Jobs (1955 – 2011). The psychobiographical research method qualitatively considers the lived life of an individual in an attempt to understand the psychological development in the context of applied psychological theory. A theoretical integration of Adler‘s Individual Psychology and Antonovsky‘s Sense of Coherence was utilized in the present study. This integrative approach facilitated a dynamic and holistic picture of the individual‘s functioning in illuminating not only personality but also the individual‘s social context, choice making capacity, general resistance resources and the individual‘s ‗meaning making‘ capacity in the strive towards health and superiority. Steven Paul Jobs revolutionised personal computing. Ranked as Forbes‘ seventeenth most powerful person and Man of the Year by The Financial Times in 2010, Jobs‘ contribution to modern technology is widely acknowledged and revered. To ensure the accurate description of the lived life of Steven Paul Jobs, extensive data was examined by utilizing Alexander‘s model of identifying salient themes. The study considered the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Alfred Adler and Aaron Antonovsky and the life of Steven Paul Jobs that resulted in an integrated psychological description of the subject. The findings of this study indicate that Steven Paul Jobs‘ unique context (environment and constitutional attributes) was valuable in light of the theoretical frameworks that the present study is grounded upon as it illustrated an individual‘s self-determination and capacity to exercise choice in response to life challenges. The study highlighted that the individual is not necessarily a passive bystander to his life events but rather is driven by an internal forward striving. Key concepts: Aaron Antonovsky, Alfred Adler, Apple Computers, Individual Psychology, Psychobiography, Sense of Coherence, Steven Paul Jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiography of Helen Martins
- Authors: Mitchell, Donna Leigh
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Martins, Helen Elizabeth, 1897-1976 -- Criticism and interpretation , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Women sculptors -- Psychology , Psychohistory , Personality -- Social aspects , Personality -- Age factors , Personality assessment , Personality change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3204 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011670 , Martins, Helen Elizabeth, 1897-1976 -- Criticism and interpretation , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Women sculptors -- Psychology , Psychohistory , Personality -- Social aspects , Personality -- Age factors , Personality assessment , Personality change
- Description: Helen Martins devoted approximately the last thirty years of her life to converting her family home into a unique fantasy world which she named the Owl House. Since her death in 1976 the Owl House has become a national monument and museum in South Africa. Throughout her life Helen was considered by most of the surrounding villagers to have been strange, and she withdrew increasingly from society. However, she appeared to have contained a desire for human connection. There are several instances in which she expressed this desire, such as through the numerous letters which she wrote to fellow artists. The existing body of literature on Helen illustrates the complex nature of her personality; however the question of which personality style she best typifies has remained unanswered. In order to answer this question a psychobiography was conducted on Helen. Psychobiographies entail a biographical representation of a person's life history to which a psychological theory is applied. The psychological theory utilised within the current study was Millon's (1969/1996) Biosocial- Learning Theory. Thus, the chief objective of this study was to describe and interpret Helen's personality style through the use of Millon's (1969/1996) Biosocial-Learning Theory. Alexander's model of data extraction and Miles and Huberman's three step approach were implemented in order to reduce, organise and analyse the data. The findings of this study reflected that Helen deteriorated from one of Millon's (1969/1996) proposed personality styles to another as she aged. The current findings may illuminate Helen's motives for obsessively devoting her life to the creation of her fantasy world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mitchell, Donna Leigh
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Martins, Helen Elizabeth, 1897-1976 -- Criticism and interpretation , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Women sculptors -- Psychology , Psychohistory , Personality -- Social aspects , Personality -- Age factors , Personality assessment , Personality change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3204 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011670 , Martins, Helen Elizabeth, 1897-1976 -- Criticism and interpretation , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Women sculptors -- Psychology , Psychohistory , Personality -- Social aspects , Personality -- Age factors , Personality assessment , Personality change
- Description: Helen Martins devoted approximately the last thirty years of her life to converting her family home into a unique fantasy world which she named the Owl House. Since her death in 1976 the Owl House has become a national monument and museum in South Africa. Throughout her life Helen was considered by most of the surrounding villagers to have been strange, and she withdrew increasingly from society. However, she appeared to have contained a desire for human connection. There are several instances in which she expressed this desire, such as through the numerous letters which she wrote to fellow artists. The existing body of literature on Helen illustrates the complex nature of her personality; however the question of which personality style she best typifies has remained unanswered. In order to answer this question a psychobiography was conducted on Helen. Psychobiographies entail a biographical representation of a person's life history to which a psychological theory is applied. The psychological theory utilised within the current study was Millon's (1969/1996) Biosocial- Learning Theory. Thus, the chief objective of this study was to describe and interpret Helen's personality style through the use of Millon's (1969/1996) Biosocial-Learning Theory. Alexander's model of data extraction and Miles and Huberman's three step approach were implemented in order to reduce, organise and analyse the data. The findings of this study reflected that Helen deteriorated from one of Millon's (1969/1996) proposed personality styles to another as she aged. The current findings may illuminate Helen's motives for obsessively devoting her life to the creation of her fantasy world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A public safety, participatory crowdsourcing smart city model for a developing country
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11144 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015305
- Description: Worldwide the population in cities is increasing. It is the responsibility of local government to provide public safety services in order to ensure the safety of their citizens and, yet, the local government often have inadequate resources to do this. ‘Smart Cities’ is a new and innovative concept that has emerged during the past few years and which involves using current infrastructure and resources more effectively and efficiently. One of the methods used to collect data in a smart city is participatory crowdsourcing but, in order to ensure effectiveness and efficiency, it is essential that a large amount of data be collected from the participants in such a project, who are generally citizens residing in the city. This study was conducted in the city of East London, which is part of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The study made use of a Design Science approach with a mixed method data collection method. The quantitative data collection comprised a questionnaire that was completed by 394 participants, while the qualitative data collection included a detailed literature review, conversational analysis and observations arising from the building of the crowdsourcing system prototype. The design artefact produced by this research is a model based on the literature, conversational analysis and the principles and concepts learnt from the prototype. Thus, this model represents what must be incorporated in the prototype to assist with the implementation of a public safety, participatory crowdsourcing smart city in a developing country. The model includes three areas ‒ the crowdsourcing system, the city (Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality) and the citizens of East London. The crowdsourcing system incorporates factors of information security, specifically the CIA triad, and the usability of the crowdsourcing system. Usability includes characteristics such as the quality of the system and interface, as well as the usefulness of the public safety, participatory crowdsourcing system which was used to measure the confidence of the East London citizens in the system. Three steps were identified in the literature as being necessary for the implementation of a smart city project by a city. These steps include the planning, development and delivery of the smart city project. Finally, the trustworthiness of the public safety participatory crowdsourcing system is determined by the ability, reliability and benevolence of the system. These three characteristics were included in the citizen factor of the model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11144 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015305
- Description: Worldwide the population in cities is increasing. It is the responsibility of local government to provide public safety services in order to ensure the safety of their citizens and, yet, the local government often have inadequate resources to do this. ‘Smart Cities’ is a new and innovative concept that has emerged during the past few years and which involves using current infrastructure and resources more effectively and efficiently. One of the methods used to collect data in a smart city is participatory crowdsourcing but, in order to ensure effectiveness and efficiency, it is essential that a large amount of data be collected from the participants in such a project, who are generally citizens residing in the city. This study was conducted in the city of East London, which is part of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The study made use of a Design Science approach with a mixed method data collection method. The quantitative data collection comprised a questionnaire that was completed by 394 participants, while the qualitative data collection included a detailed literature review, conversational analysis and observations arising from the building of the crowdsourcing system prototype. The design artefact produced by this research is a model based on the literature, conversational analysis and the principles and concepts learnt from the prototype. Thus, this model represents what must be incorporated in the prototype to assist with the implementation of a public safety, participatory crowdsourcing smart city in a developing country. The model includes three areas ‒ the crowdsourcing system, the city (Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality) and the citizens of East London. The crowdsourcing system incorporates factors of information security, specifically the CIA triad, and the usability of the crowdsourcing system. Usability includes characteristics such as the quality of the system and interface, as well as the usefulness of the public safety, participatory crowdsourcing system which was used to measure the confidence of the East London citizens in the system. Three steps were identified in the literature as being necessary for the implementation of a smart city project by a city. These steps include the planning, development and delivery of the smart city project. Finally, the trustworthiness of the public safety participatory crowdsourcing system is determined by the ability, reliability and benevolence of the system. These three characteristics were included in the citizen factor of the model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A reflection on the use of case studies as a methodology for social learning research in sub Saharan Africa
- Cundill, Georgina, Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965-, Mukute, Mutizwa, Ali, Million Belay, Shackleton, Sheona E, Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Authors: Cundill, Georgina , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965- , Mukute, Mutizwa , Ali, Million Belay , Shackleton, Sheona E , Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182832 , vital:43884 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.njas.2013.04.001"
- Description: A recent review has highlighted that the methodology most commonly employed to research social learning has been the individual case study. We draw on four examples of social learning research in the environmental and sustainability sciences from sub-Saharan Africa to reflect on possible reasons behind the preponderance of case study research in this field, and to identify common elements that may be significant for social learning research more generally. We find that a common interest in change oriented social learning, and therefore processes of change, makes case studies a necessary approach because long term process analyses are required that are sensitive to social-ecological contexts. Common elements of the examples reflected upon included: a focus on initiating, tracking and/or understanding a process of change toward sustainability; long term research; an action research agenda that involves reflecting on data with research participants; and temporal, process based analysis of data coupled with in-depth theoretical analysis. This paper highlights that there is significant scope for exploratory research that compares case studies of social learning research to generate a deeper understanding of social learning processes, and their relationship to human agency and societal change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Cundill, Georgina , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965- , Mukute, Mutizwa , Ali, Million Belay , Shackleton, Sheona E , Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182832 , vital:43884 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.njas.2013.04.001"
- Description: A recent review has highlighted that the methodology most commonly employed to research social learning has been the individual case study. We draw on four examples of social learning research in the environmental and sustainability sciences from sub-Saharan Africa to reflect on possible reasons behind the preponderance of case study research in this field, and to identify common elements that may be significant for social learning research more generally. We find that a common interest in change oriented social learning, and therefore processes of change, makes case studies a necessary approach because long term process analyses are required that are sensitive to social-ecological contexts. Common elements of the examples reflected upon included: a focus on initiating, tracking and/or understanding a process of change toward sustainability; long term research; an action research agenda that involves reflecting on data with research participants; and temporal, process based analysis of data coupled with in-depth theoretical analysis. This paper highlights that there is significant scope for exploratory research that compares case studies of social learning research to generate a deeper understanding of social learning processes, and their relationship to human agency and societal change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A resource management framework for sustainability of rural ICT4D projects in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mugoni, Hope
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/689 , vital:26488
- Description: Developing countries are embracing Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) as a tool for alleviating poverty. There are, however, still challenges that developing countries face in trying to establish Information Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D). Among the major challenges is the lack of proper resource management which results in poor sustainability of ICT4D initiatives. If these ICT4D initiatives are to be sustainable for the benefit of current and future generations, proper resource management methods are to be developed and applied. This study proposes a resource management framework that can be applied to the management of ICT4D resources with the aim of achieving sustainability. The framework is informed by theory, and validated through enquiry in the field. Qualitative research methodology was used as a research approach for this study where three rural ICT4D initiatives were used as case studies. The case studies were conducted in rural Zimbabwe to investigate how proper resource management can influence the sustainability of ICT4D initiatives. It was identified from the study that the lack of proper resource management methods adversely affects the initiatives’ sustainability. The proposed resource management framework will guide ICT4D resource management to enhance the initiatives’ sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mugoni, Hope
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/689 , vital:26488
- Description: Developing countries are embracing Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) as a tool for alleviating poverty. There are, however, still challenges that developing countries face in trying to establish Information Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D). Among the major challenges is the lack of proper resource management which results in poor sustainability of ICT4D initiatives. If these ICT4D initiatives are to be sustainable for the benefit of current and future generations, proper resource management methods are to be developed and applied. This study proposes a resource management framework that can be applied to the management of ICT4D resources with the aim of achieving sustainability. The framework is informed by theory, and validated through enquiry in the field. Qualitative research methodology was used as a research approach for this study where three rural ICT4D initiatives were used as case studies. The case studies were conducted in rural Zimbabwe to investigate how proper resource management can influence the sustainability of ICT4D initiatives. It was identified from the study that the lack of proper resource management methods adversely affects the initiatives’ sustainability. The proposed resource management framework will guide ICT4D resource management to enhance the initiatives’ sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A response to the South African Jewish report and Ms Klazinga on "Jews unwelcome at Rhodes"
- Authors: Badat, Saleem
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: vital:7883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016432
- Description: On 1 January 2014, the South African Jewish Report and Ms Larissa Klazinga made a number of unfounded claims and unsubstantiated allegations against Rhodes University. Stripped of the hysteria, lies and inaccuracies, the central claim made is that Rhodes University is hostile to Jews and seeks to be rid of Jews. We reject with contempt these baseless and self-serving claims and allegations of the South African Jewish Report and Klazinga. Rhodes is committed to an institutional culture that respects and promotes equity, human dignity and human rights, embraces difference and diversity and is comfortable for all people irrespective of ‘race’, gender, language, culture, nationality, sexual orientation and religion. Rhodes welcomes all and will continue to strive to be a Home for All.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Badat, Saleem
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: vital:7883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016432
- Description: On 1 January 2014, the South African Jewish Report and Ms Larissa Klazinga made a number of unfounded claims and unsubstantiated allegations against Rhodes University. Stripped of the hysteria, lies and inaccuracies, the central claim made is that Rhodes University is hostile to Jews and seeks to be rid of Jews. We reject with contempt these baseless and self-serving claims and allegations of the South African Jewish Report and Klazinga. Rhodes is committed to an institutional culture that respects and promotes equity, human dignity and human rights, embraces difference and diversity and is comfortable for all people irrespective of ‘race’, gender, language, culture, nationality, sexual orientation and religion. Rhodes welcomes all and will continue to strive to be a Home for All.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A review of archean orogenic gold deposits in greenstone belts and the Slave Province : exploration in the Yellowknife domain, NWT, Canada
- Authors: Branson, Thomas Keegan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Gold ores -- Geology , Gold mines and mining -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Greenstone belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Orogenic belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Prospecting -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Mining geology , Slave Province (N.W.T. and Nunavut)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012142 , Gold ores -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Gold ores -- Geology , Gold mines and mining -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Greenstone belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Orogenic belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Prospecting -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Mining geology , Slave Province (N.W.T. and Nunavut)
- Description: A review of Archean granite-greenstone terranes, orogenic gold deposits, the Slave Province and modern exploration tools, techniques and methods was conducted to identify prospective areas in the Yellowknife domain for hosting orogenic gold deposits and illustrate the best exploration methods for delineating this deposit type. This study identifies Archean granite-greenstone terranes as economically important hosts to quartz-carbonate vein-hosted orogenic gold deposits. These deposits occur at convergent plate margins, but can also be related to local extensional tectonics within a convergent setting. Heat generated from tectonic processes can trigger hydrothermal fluid movement along first-order faults and shear zones. Precipitation of gold-bearing quartz-carbonate veins from the hydrothermal fluids occurs in second- and third-order faults and shear zones related to the first-order structures. This study also identifies the Archean Slave Province in northern Canada as a well-endowed craton with numerous orogenic gold deposits, diamondiferous kimberlites, VMS deposits and several other mineralization styles. In particular, three greenstone belts (Yellowknife, Cameron River and Beaulieu River) associated with likely first-order structures are comprised of prospective rocks for hosting orogenic gold and VMS mineralization. The Yellowknife greenstone belt hosts the past-producing and former world-class Con and Giant orogenic gold deposits, but has been little explored with modern exploration techniques. The Cameron River and Beaulieu River greenstone belts host numerous base and precious metal VMS and BIF-hosted orogenic gold prospects and deposits, indicating mineralization is present. There is considerable potential for significant discoveries to be made using modern exploration techniques in the greenstone belts; however, exploration in the region has been hindered over the past decade by ongoing political negotiations. Once the political negotiations are finalized, application of modern exploration methods and techniques in the prospective greenstone belts should be carried out. Regional scale methodologies should be applied to generate targets using predictive modelling, implicit 3D modelling, 3D geochemistry and exploration targeting so decisions defining a businesses strategy for ground acquisition of high priority targets are made using quantitative analysis. Once ground is acquired, field-based exploration for orogenic gold and VMS deposits should include geological mapping with a focus on structural geology, geochemical sampling and airborne magnetic, radiometric and EM geophysical surveys. Prior to reconnaissance drilling, integration of all data layers and interpretation within a common 3D earth model should be conducted. Following successful reconnaissance drilling, definition drilling along strike and down dip of intersected mineralization, combined with borehole geophysics, should be carried out to delineate the extent of mineralization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Branson, Thomas Keegan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Gold ores -- Geology , Gold mines and mining -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Greenstone belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Orogenic belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Prospecting -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Mining geology , Slave Province (N.W.T. and Nunavut)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5055 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012142 , Gold ores -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Gold ores -- Geology , Gold mines and mining -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Greenstone belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Orogenic belts -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Prospecting -- Northwest Territories -- Yellowknife , Mining geology , Slave Province (N.W.T. and Nunavut)
- Description: A review of Archean granite-greenstone terranes, orogenic gold deposits, the Slave Province and modern exploration tools, techniques and methods was conducted to identify prospective areas in the Yellowknife domain for hosting orogenic gold deposits and illustrate the best exploration methods for delineating this deposit type. This study identifies Archean granite-greenstone terranes as economically important hosts to quartz-carbonate vein-hosted orogenic gold deposits. These deposits occur at convergent plate margins, but can also be related to local extensional tectonics within a convergent setting. Heat generated from tectonic processes can trigger hydrothermal fluid movement along first-order faults and shear zones. Precipitation of gold-bearing quartz-carbonate veins from the hydrothermal fluids occurs in second- and third-order faults and shear zones related to the first-order structures. This study also identifies the Archean Slave Province in northern Canada as a well-endowed craton with numerous orogenic gold deposits, diamondiferous kimberlites, VMS deposits and several other mineralization styles. In particular, three greenstone belts (Yellowknife, Cameron River and Beaulieu River) associated with likely first-order structures are comprised of prospective rocks for hosting orogenic gold and VMS mineralization. The Yellowknife greenstone belt hosts the past-producing and former world-class Con and Giant orogenic gold deposits, but has been little explored with modern exploration techniques. The Cameron River and Beaulieu River greenstone belts host numerous base and precious metal VMS and BIF-hosted orogenic gold prospects and deposits, indicating mineralization is present. There is considerable potential for significant discoveries to be made using modern exploration techniques in the greenstone belts; however, exploration in the region has been hindered over the past decade by ongoing political negotiations. Once the political negotiations are finalized, application of modern exploration methods and techniques in the prospective greenstone belts should be carried out. Regional scale methodologies should be applied to generate targets using predictive modelling, implicit 3D modelling, 3D geochemistry and exploration targeting so decisions defining a businesses strategy for ground acquisition of high priority targets are made using quantitative analysis. Once ground is acquired, field-based exploration for orogenic gold and VMS deposits should include geological mapping with a focus on structural geology, geochemical sampling and airborne magnetic, radiometric and EM geophysical surveys. Prior to reconnaissance drilling, integration of all data layers and interpretation within a common 3D earth model should be conducted. Following successful reconnaissance drilling, definition drilling along strike and down dip of intersected mineralization, combined with borehole geophysics, should be carried out to delineate the extent of mineralization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A Review of policies for sustainable solid waste management service in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Qhayi-Shweni, Nokuzola
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/3001 , vital:28231
- Description: Waste is not only harmful to the environment alone but it is also a threat to human health and as such its proper management becomes critical. This study which adopted a qualitative approach focused on the review of policies for sustainable solid waste management service in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in an effort to seek what the municipality’s Solid Waste Department should consider in ensuring that all the communities live in a litter free, clean and healthy environment, and ensure that such a service is received by all communities within its jurisdiction. The most sustainable solid waste management strategy would be to adopt the solid waste hierarchy of promoting waste minimisation, re-use, recycling, waste treatment and disposal as the last resort.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Qhayi-Shweni, Nokuzola
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sewage disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/3001 , vital:28231
- Description: Waste is not only harmful to the environment alone but it is also a threat to human health and as such its proper management becomes critical. This study which adopted a qualitative approach focused on the review of policies for sustainable solid waste management service in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in an effort to seek what the municipality’s Solid Waste Department should consider in ensuring that all the communities live in a litter free, clean and healthy environment, and ensure that such a service is received by all communities within its jurisdiction. The most sustainable solid waste management strategy would be to adopt the solid waste hierarchy of promoting waste minimisation, re-use, recycling, waste treatment and disposal as the last resort.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A review of the collective bargaining system in the public service with specific reference to the general public service sector bargaining council (GPSSBC)
- Authors: Oodit, Sharlaine
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Collective bargaining -- South Africa , Public service employment , Labor unions -- South Africa , Labor movement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021029
- Description: ollective bargaining continues to play a prominent role in shaping employment relations in South Africa, without which the individual worker is powerless and in a weaker bargaining position against his employer. Collective bargaining can be described as an interactive process that resolves disputes between the employer and employee. In South Africa the advent of democracy was accompanied by numerous interventions to level the historically uneven bargaining field. Therefore in examining the history of collective bargaining in South Africa it is necessary to reflect on the state of labour relations prior and post the 1994 democratic elections. The study provides an overview of the practices and processes of public service collective bargaining in the old and new public service. The public sector accounts for a very significant proportion of employment in all countries around the globe, South Africa is no exception. Although the state as employer is in a stronger position than its private sector counterpart, the public employee is potentially also in a stronger position than its private sector counterpart. A defining characteristic of most government activity and services is that they are the ones available to the public. This means that industrial action which disrupts such services has a very significant impact on the public, serving as a substantial leverage in collective bargaining. The bargaining councils in the public sector which ensure the effectiveness of collective bargaining are maintained, are examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the workings of these institutions. Some of the gains and challenges are also explored to provide a holistic picture of state of collective bargaining in public service. A comparison of countries seeks to analyse and compare globally the developments of collective bargaining in public administrations. The different political systems around the world have developed various labour relations processes in the public service, an examination of the approaches and mechanisms provides alternative ways of doing things. Recommendations are made regarding the changes that need to be made, as well as matters, which need to be analysed and examined further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Oodit, Sharlaine
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Collective bargaining -- South Africa , Public service employment , Labor unions -- South Africa , Labor movement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021029
- Description: ollective bargaining continues to play a prominent role in shaping employment relations in South Africa, without which the individual worker is powerless and in a weaker bargaining position against his employer. Collective bargaining can be described as an interactive process that resolves disputes between the employer and employee. In South Africa the advent of democracy was accompanied by numerous interventions to level the historically uneven bargaining field. Therefore in examining the history of collective bargaining in South Africa it is necessary to reflect on the state of labour relations prior and post the 1994 democratic elections. The study provides an overview of the practices and processes of public service collective bargaining in the old and new public service. The public sector accounts for a very significant proportion of employment in all countries around the globe, South Africa is no exception. Although the state as employer is in a stronger position than its private sector counterpart, the public employee is potentially also in a stronger position than its private sector counterpart. A defining characteristic of most government activity and services is that they are the ones available to the public. This means that industrial action which disrupts such services has a very significant impact on the public, serving as a substantial leverage in collective bargaining. The bargaining councils in the public sector which ensure the effectiveness of collective bargaining are maintained, are examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the workings of these institutions. Some of the gains and challenges are also explored to provide a holistic picture of state of collective bargaining in public service. A comparison of countries seeks to analyse and compare globally the developments of collective bargaining in public administrations. The different political systems around the world have developed various labour relations processes in the public service, an examination of the approaches and mechanisms provides alternative ways of doing things. Recommendations are made regarding the changes that need to be made, as well as matters, which need to be analysed and examined further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014