"Symbiosis or death" an ecocritical examination of Douglas Livingstone's poetry
- Authors: Stevens, Mariss Patricia
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Livingstone, Douglas Criticism and interpretation Poets, South African -- 20th century -- Criticism and interpretation Ecology in literature Ecocriticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002254
- Description: As the quotation in the title of this thesis indicates, Douglas Livingstone states that unless humankind can learn to live in mutuality with the rest of the natural world, the human race faces extinction. Using the relatively new critical approach of ecological literary criticism (ecocriticism) this thesis explores Livingstone's preoccupation with "symbiosis or death" and shows that the predominant theme in his ecologically-orientated poetry is one of ecological despair. Countering this is a tentative thread of hope. Possible resolution lies in the human capacity to attain compassion and wisdom through the judicious use of science, creativity, the power of art and the power of love. Livingstone's ecological preoccupation is thus informed by the universal themes which have pervaded literature since its recorded beginnings. The first chapter examines the concepts of ecology and literary ecocriticism, followed by a chapter on the life and work of Douglas Livingstone, and a review of the critical response to the five collections of poetry which predate A Littoral Zone, his final work. The remaining four chapters offer an analysis of his ecologically-orientated poetry, with the majority of the space given to an examination of A Littoral Zone. The following ecological themes are used in the analysis of the poems: evolutionary theory, humankind's relationship to nature, ecological equilibrium, and ecological destruction. The latter two themes are shown to represent Livingstone's view of the ideal and the real, or the opposites of hope and despair. The analysis interweaves an argument with the existing critical response to this collection. This thesis demonstrates that Livingstone's crucial message – the need for humankind to attain ecological sensibility or “the knowledge of right living” (Ellen Swallow) and so obviate its certain extinction – has largely been ignored in previous critical works.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Stevens, Mariss Patricia
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Livingstone, Douglas Criticism and interpretation Poets, South African -- 20th century -- Criticism and interpretation Ecology in literature Ecocriticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002254
- Description: As the quotation in the title of this thesis indicates, Douglas Livingstone states that unless humankind can learn to live in mutuality with the rest of the natural world, the human race faces extinction. Using the relatively new critical approach of ecological literary criticism (ecocriticism) this thesis explores Livingstone's preoccupation with "symbiosis or death" and shows that the predominant theme in his ecologically-orientated poetry is one of ecological despair. Countering this is a tentative thread of hope. Possible resolution lies in the human capacity to attain compassion and wisdom through the judicious use of science, creativity, the power of art and the power of love. Livingstone's ecological preoccupation is thus informed by the universal themes which have pervaded literature since its recorded beginnings. The first chapter examines the concepts of ecology and literary ecocriticism, followed by a chapter on the life and work of Douglas Livingstone, and a review of the critical response to the five collections of poetry which predate A Littoral Zone, his final work. The remaining four chapters offer an analysis of his ecologically-orientated poetry, with the majority of the space given to an examination of A Littoral Zone. The following ecological themes are used in the analysis of the poems: evolutionary theory, humankind's relationship to nature, ecological equilibrium, and ecological destruction. The latter two themes are shown to represent Livingstone's view of the ideal and the real, or the opposites of hope and despair. The analysis interweaves an argument with the existing critical response to this collection. This thesis demonstrates that Livingstone's crucial message – the need for humankind to attain ecological sensibility or “the knowledge of right living” (Ellen Swallow) and so obviate its certain extinction – has largely been ignored in previous critical works.
- Full Text:
A century of Zoology and Entomology at Rhodes University, 1905 to 2005
- Hodgson, Alan N, Craig, Adrian J F K
- Authors: Hodgson, Alan N , Craig, Adrian J F K
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011905
- Description: The history of the Department of Zoology & Entomology at Rhodes University is traced from its origin with a single staff member, through the era of permanent heads of department to the present day staff. Significant achievements and developments in teaching and research are highlighted, and some anecdotal material is included.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hodgson, Alan N , Craig, Adrian J F K
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011905
- Description: The history of the Department of Zoology & Entomology at Rhodes University is traced from its origin with a single staff member, through the era of permanent heads of department to the present day staff. Significant achievements and developments in teaching and research are highlighted, and some anecdotal material is included.
- Full Text:
A floristic study of a portion of the Pondoland Centre of Endeminism, Port St Johns, South Africa
- Authors: Cloete, Elizabeth Carinus
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Endemic plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Phytogeography -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Alien plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4188 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003757 , Endemic plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Phytogeography -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Alien plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns
- Description: Analysis of the flora of the Pondoland Centre of Endemism (PCE) recorded 2253 species in the combined checklist of four sites (Port St. Johns, Mkambati, Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge). Of these 1 % species are endemic to Pondoland, representing 8.7% of the Species, 15% of the genera and 26% of the families of the combined flora. Forty-four percent ofthe combined flora was only recorded from one locality (between 17% and 26% of each flora) and only 12% of the flora was present in all four localities. Of the endemics only sixteen (8%) occurred in all four sites thus each site had its own complement of unique endemics and 21 % endemics were not recorded from any of the four sites. At species level the floras of Mkambati and Umtamvuna were the most similar, followed by that of Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge. Port St Johns had the least in common with any of the othersites, but more in common with non-neighbours Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge than with its nearest neighbour Mkambati. Mkambati and Umtamvuna had the largest proportion of PCE endemics and Port St Johns had the lowest. The four sites are quite similar at family level, sharing thirteen families in the top ten family list between them, but much less similar at generic level.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cloete, Elizabeth Carinus
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Endemic plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Phytogeography -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Alien plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4188 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003757 , Endemic plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Phytogeography -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns , Alien plants -- South Africa -- Port St Johns
- Description: Analysis of the flora of the Pondoland Centre of Endemism (PCE) recorded 2253 species in the combined checklist of four sites (Port St. Johns, Mkambati, Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge). Of these 1 % species are endemic to Pondoland, representing 8.7% of the Species, 15% of the genera and 26% of the families of the combined flora. Forty-four percent ofthe combined flora was only recorded from one locality (between 17% and 26% of each flora) and only 12% of the flora was present in all four localities. Of the endemics only sixteen (8%) occurred in all four sites thus each site had its own complement of unique endemics and 21 % endemics were not recorded from any of the four sites. At species level the floras of Mkambati and Umtamvuna were the most similar, followed by that of Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge. Port St Johns had the least in common with any of the othersites, but more in common with non-neighbours Umtamvuna and Oribi Gorge than with its nearest neighbour Mkambati. Mkambati and Umtamvuna had the largest proportion of PCE endemics and Port St Johns had the lowest. The four sites are quite similar at family level, sharing thirteen families in the top ten family list between them, but much less similar at generic level.
- Full Text:
A history of the direct taxation of the African people of Kenya, 1895-1973
- Authors: Tarus, Isaac Kipsang
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Mau Mau -- History Taxation -- Kenya Tax collection -- Kenya Fiscal policy -- Kenya Kenya -- Economic policy Kenya -- History -- 1895-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002414
- Description: This study examines the origin, the manifestation and impact of the direct taxation of Africans in Kenya. While the state had several reasons for imposing taxation on Africans, the basic factor weighed on the need for a definitive source of revenue. For most of the colonial period, this aggregated to about 37½ percent of the total revenues. The thesis shows how taxes were collected from Africans, how this led to participation in the cash economy and how they continually resisted and evaded such taxation. Tax collection was synonymous with colonialism and this was manifested through the central role of chiefs, who used taxes and force to coerce Africans into migrant wage labour. Through taxation policies, legislation and African resourcefulness, migrant wage labour served the needs of a colonial capitalist settler economy. In this way, the colonial state revealed its capacity for dominance, power and exploitation. Evidence has been adduced to show that African taxation was an important factor in Kenya’s administrative, political and economic development. The policy of African taxation, land loss and poor working conditions are remembered as having interfered with African mechanisms for accumulating wealth. One of the main objections of the payment of taxes was the manner of its collection. Those unable to pay were imprisoned or detained while many took to instant flight at the sight of the tax collector. The thesis shows that in spite of all these harsh tax collection methods, peasants remained largely resilient and industrious. The Mau Mau movement was the culmination of various peasant grievances in which the colonial state used steep taxation as a counter-insurgency measure. Kenya’s independence in 1963, however, never altered the predatory nature of the state. Subtle, opportunistic and overt ways continued to be used to extract taxes from the peasants and the working class. It was not until 1973 that the much-hated colonial poll tax that had been renamed as graduated poll tax was abolished and replaced by indirect taxation. Finally, taxation like other colonial legacies has endured and has become one of the most important sources of revenue for the government to manage its fiscal policies.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tarus, Isaac Kipsang
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Mau Mau -- History Taxation -- Kenya Tax collection -- Kenya Fiscal policy -- Kenya Kenya -- Economic policy Kenya -- History -- 1895-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002414
- Description: This study examines the origin, the manifestation and impact of the direct taxation of Africans in Kenya. While the state had several reasons for imposing taxation on Africans, the basic factor weighed on the need for a definitive source of revenue. For most of the colonial period, this aggregated to about 37½ percent of the total revenues. The thesis shows how taxes were collected from Africans, how this led to participation in the cash economy and how they continually resisted and evaded such taxation. Tax collection was synonymous with colonialism and this was manifested through the central role of chiefs, who used taxes and force to coerce Africans into migrant wage labour. Through taxation policies, legislation and African resourcefulness, migrant wage labour served the needs of a colonial capitalist settler economy. In this way, the colonial state revealed its capacity for dominance, power and exploitation. Evidence has been adduced to show that African taxation was an important factor in Kenya’s administrative, political and economic development. The policy of African taxation, land loss and poor working conditions are remembered as having interfered with African mechanisms for accumulating wealth. One of the main objections of the payment of taxes was the manner of its collection. Those unable to pay were imprisoned or detained while many took to instant flight at the sight of the tax collector. The thesis shows that in spite of all these harsh tax collection methods, peasants remained largely resilient and industrious. The Mau Mau movement was the culmination of various peasant grievances in which the colonial state used steep taxation as a counter-insurgency measure. Kenya’s independence in 1963, however, never altered the predatory nature of the state. Subtle, opportunistic and overt ways continued to be used to extract taxes from the peasants and the working class. It was not until 1973 that the much-hated colonial poll tax that had been renamed as graduated poll tax was abolished and replaced by indirect taxation. Finally, taxation like other colonial legacies has endured and has become one of the most important sources of revenue for the government to manage its fiscal policies.
- Full Text:
An assessment of the shore baitfishery in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mackenzie, Bernard Louis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5232 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005075 , Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The collection of bait organisms goes hand-in-hand with shore-angling in South Africa, hence the level of bait-collection can be used as an indicator of fishing effort and vice versa. This emphasises the importance of understanding the fisheries for bait organisms. In 1998 the South African fisheries policy was revised, culminating in the Marine Living Resources Act No. 18 (1998) which supported sustainable development, equitable access to resources and stability of the industry. The policy also dealt with the needs of subsistence fishers who had previously been all but ignored. This study looks to continue in this direction by investigating the opportunities for the establishment and management implications of small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the Eastern Cape. Data were collected from eight clearly demarcated sampling areas using the roving survey method. A total of 97 survey trips were undertaken between September 2001 and April 2003 and 469 interviews were conducted on individual anglers. The data was analysed and discussed on the basis of three wider study regions and this allowed for a more accurate and focussed assessment of the fishery area and the potential for its formalisation. Recreational fishers (91.5%) dominated in each of the three regions surveyed. The low number of subsistence fishers encountered in this study is not a standard pattern throughout South Africa. The dominance of local residents in the shore-fishery could have an important impact on the success of a formalised baitfishery in that the greater proportion of the potential market is accessible throughout the year. Most recreational shore-anglers were middle-aged (43.8 years ± 12.9 years), and hence at the peak of their earning years and this may contribute towards the potential success of a small-scale commercial baitfishery. Most anglers and baitfishers were of the opinion that all South Africans owned and were responsible for managing the living marine resources. The vast majority of recreational users paid for and were in possession of valid permits and approved of the baitfishery regulations. This implies that the greater majority of users recognise that the state is the rightful custodian of the resource and is responsible for management. No subsistence users were in possession of permits. Resource users in the Gamtoos to Tsitsikamma National Park region, where the inspection rate was highest, had the best knowledge of the regulations regarding both baitfishing (67.2% ± 38.8%) and angling (79.8 ± 21.4%). This substantiates the hypothesis that there is a direct correlation between knowledge of the regulations and the rate of inspection. About 475 000 angler-days/year were fished in the study area, with the highest number of angler-days recorded in or near urban and peri-urban areas. Bronze bream (65.9%) and dusky kob (61.1%) were the two most commonly targeted species, followed by white steenbras (31.7%), white musselcracker (31.4%) and blacktail (20.2%). A total of four purchased and 19 collected bait species was recorded during the study. Sardine, chokka and pink prawn were the most frequently encountered purchased bait. Red bait, sand prawn, mullet, siffie, sand mussel, bloodworm and saddleback were the most frequently encountered collected bait species. Sand prawn was identified as the preferred bait species for a wide range of angling species. The total quantity of bait organisms used per fishing trip was markedly less than the total amount collected per trip. The ban of off-road vehicles (ORV's) from beaches (20 January 2002) resulted in spatial shifts in angler effort in certain areas, suggesting that total effort has reduced in areas where ORV's were commonly used. Subsequent to the ban, fishers were encountered, on average, much closer to access points. The value of small-scale baitfisheries within the total study area was estimated at about R7 million per year. Across the entire study area red bait was identified as the most valuable bait in the rock-and-surf fishery in monetary terms, while sand prawn was also important. The findings led to the conclusion that small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the study area are potentially viable. Scenarios for the establishment of baitfisheries are suggested and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mackenzie, Bernard Louis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5232 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005075 , Fishing baits -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fishery -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The collection of bait organisms goes hand-in-hand with shore-angling in South Africa, hence the level of bait-collection can be used as an indicator of fishing effort and vice versa. This emphasises the importance of understanding the fisheries for bait organisms. In 1998 the South African fisheries policy was revised, culminating in the Marine Living Resources Act No. 18 (1998) which supported sustainable development, equitable access to resources and stability of the industry. The policy also dealt with the needs of subsistence fishers who had previously been all but ignored. This study looks to continue in this direction by investigating the opportunities for the establishment and management implications of small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the Eastern Cape. Data were collected from eight clearly demarcated sampling areas using the roving survey method. A total of 97 survey trips were undertaken between September 2001 and April 2003 and 469 interviews were conducted on individual anglers. The data was analysed and discussed on the basis of three wider study regions and this allowed for a more accurate and focussed assessment of the fishery area and the potential for its formalisation. Recreational fishers (91.5%) dominated in each of the three regions surveyed. The low number of subsistence fishers encountered in this study is not a standard pattern throughout South Africa. The dominance of local residents in the shore-fishery could have an important impact on the success of a formalised baitfishery in that the greater proportion of the potential market is accessible throughout the year. Most recreational shore-anglers were middle-aged (43.8 years ± 12.9 years), and hence at the peak of their earning years and this may contribute towards the potential success of a small-scale commercial baitfishery. Most anglers and baitfishers were of the opinion that all South Africans owned and were responsible for managing the living marine resources. The vast majority of recreational users paid for and were in possession of valid permits and approved of the baitfishery regulations. This implies that the greater majority of users recognise that the state is the rightful custodian of the resource and is responsible for management. No subsistence users were in possession of permits. Resource users in the Gamtoos to Tsitsikamma National Park region, where the inspection rate was highest, had the best knowledge of the regulations regarding both baitfishing (67.2% ± 38.8%) and angling (79.8 ± 21.4%). This substantiates the hypothesis that there is a direct correlation between knowledge of the regulations and the rate of inspection. About 475 000 angler-days/year were fished in the study area, with the highest number of angler-days recorded in or near urban and peri-urban areas. Bronze bream (65.9%) and dusky kob (61.1%) were the two most commonly targeted species, followed by white steenbras (31.7%), white musselcracker (31.4%) and blacktail (20.2%). A total of four purchased and 19 collected bait species was recorded during the study. Sardine, chokka and pink prawn were the most frequently encountered purchased bait. Red bait, sand prawn, mullet, siffie, sand mussel, bloodworm and saddleback were the most frequently encountered collected bait species. Sand prawn was identified as the preferred bait species for a wide range of angling species. The total quantity of bait organisms used per fishing trip was markedly less than the total amount collected per trip. The ban of off-road vehicles (ORV's) from beaches (20 January 2002) resulted in spatial shifts in angler effort in certain areas, suggesting that total effort has reduced in areas where ORV's were commonly used. Subsequent to the ban, fishers were encountered, on average, much closer to access points. The value of small-scale baitfisheries within the total study area was estimated at about R7 million per year. Across the entire study area red bait was identified as the most valuable bait in the rock-and-surf fishery in monetary terms, while sand prawn was also important. The findings led to the conclusion that small-scale commercial baitfisheries in the study area are potentially viable. Scenarios for the establishment of baitfisheries are suggested and discussed.
- Full Text:
An investigation into the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen
- Authors: Maharaj, Himant
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Aspirin Acetaminophen Analgesics Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment Parkinson's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003247
- Description: The potent analgesic property of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen makes these the most commonly used analgesics in the world. Easy accessibility and cost effectiveness of these agents are attractive to patients seeking pain relief. However, the abuse of nonnarcotic analgesics such as acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid by alcoholics and patients seeking to relieve dysphoric moods is well documented. These agents therefore impact on the brain neurotransmitter levels and therefore all processes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters may be affected. The use of non-narcotic analgesics has been reported to reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The mode of action by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen elicit neuroprotection is however unclear as many mechanisms of action have been inconclusively postulated. The first part of this study aims to elucidate the various mechanisms by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen affect the enzymes responsible for the catabolism of tryptophan, which is a precursor for the mood elevating neurotransmitter serotonin, as well as to investigate whether these agents alter the interplay between serotonin and pineal indole metabolism. The second part of this study focuses on the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen utilizing the neurotoxic metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, quinolinic acid and the potent Parkinsonian neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). The ability of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to alter TRP metabolism was determined by investigating the effects of these agents on the primary enzymes of the kynurenine pathway i.e. tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase as well as to investigate whether these agents would have any effects on 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase. 3-Hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase is the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of quinolinic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen alter tryptophan metabolism by inhibiting tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase thus increasing the availability of tryptophan for the production of serotonin. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen also inhibit 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase thus implying that these agents could reduce quinolinic acid production. Acetaminophen administration in rats induces a rise in serotonin and norepinephrine in the forebrain. Acetylsalicylic acid curtails the acetaminophen-induced rise in brain norepinephrine levels as well as enhances serotonin metabolism, indicating that analgesic preparations containing both agents would be advantageous, as this would prevent acetaminophen-induced mood elevation. The results from the pineal indole metabolism study show that acetylsalicylic acid enhances pineal metabolism of serotonin whereas acetaminophen induces an increase in melatonin levels in the pineal gland. Neuronal damage due to oxidative stress has been implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders such as AD and PD. The second part of the study aims to elucidate and characterize the mechanism by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen afford neuroprotection. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for memory. Agents such as quinolinic acid that are known to induce stress in this area have detrimental effects and could lead to various types of dementia. The striatum is also a vulnerable region to oxidative stress and hence (MPP+), which is toxic for this particular region of the brain, was also used as a neurotoxin. The results show that ASA and acetaminophen alone and in combination, are potent superoxide anion scavengers. In addition, the results imply that these agents offer protection against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by several neurotoxins in rat brain particularly, the hippocampus and striatum. Histological studies, using Nissl staining and Acid fuchsin, show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen are able to protect hippocampal neurons against quinolinic acidinduced necrotic cell death. Immunohistochemical investigations show that QA induces apoptotic cell death in the hippocampus, which is inhibited by ASA and acetaminophen. In addition, ASA and acetaminophen inhibited MPP+ induced apoptotic cell death in the rat striatum. The study also sought to elucidate possible mechanisms by which ASA and acetaminophen exert neuroprotective effects in the presence of MPP+ as these agents are shown to prevent the MPP+-induced reduction in dopamine levels. The results show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen inhibit the action of this neurotoxin on the mitochondrial electron transport chain, a common source of free radicals in the cell. In addition, these agents were shown to block the neurotoxic effects of MPP+ on the enzymatic defence system of the brain i.e. superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. The reduction in glutathione levels induced by MPP+ is significantly inhibited by acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen. The results imply that these agents are capable of not only scavenging free radicals but also enhance the cell defence mechanism against toxicity in the presence of MPP+. These agents also block the MPP+-induced inhibition of dopamine uptake into the cell. This would therefore reduce auto-oxidation of dopamine thus implying another mechanism by which these agents exert a neuroprotective role in MPP+-induced neurotoxicity. The discovery of neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen is important considering the high usage of these agents and the increased incidence in neurological disorders. The findings of this thesis point to the need for clinical studies to be conducted as the results show acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to have a definite role to play as antioxidants. This study therefore provides novel information regarding the neuroprotective effects of these agents and favours the use of these agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD and PD, in which oxidative stress is implicated.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maharaj, Himant
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Aspirin Acetaminophen Analgesics Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment Parkinson's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003247
- Description: The potent analgesic property of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen makes these the most commonly used analgesics in the world. Easy accessibility and cost effectiveness of these agents are attractive to patients seeking pain relief. However, the abuse of nonnarcotic analgesics such as acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid by alcoholics and patients seeking to relieve dysphoric moods is well documented. These agents therefore impact on the brain neurotransmitter levels and therefore all processes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters may be affected. The use of non-narcotic analgesics has been reported to reduce the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The mode of action by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen elicit neuroprotection is however unclear as many mechanisms of action have been inconclusively postulated. The first part of this study aims to elucidate the various mechanisms by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen affect the enzymes responsible for the catabolism of tryptophan, which is a precursor for the mood elevating neurotransmitter serotonin, as well as to investigate whether these agents alter the interplay between serotonin and pineal indole metabolism. The second part of this study focuses on the neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen utilizing the neurotoxic metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, quinolinic acid and the potent Parkinsonian neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). The ability of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to alter TRP metabolism was determined by investigating the effects of these agents on the primary enzymes of the kynurenine pathway i.e. tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase as well as to investigate whether these agents would have any effects on 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase. 3-Hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase is the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of quinolinic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen alter tryptophan metabolism by inhibiting tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase thus increasing the availability of tryptophan for the production of serotonin. Acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen also inhibit 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase thus implying that these agents could reduce quinolinic acid production. Acetaminophen administration in rats induces a rise in serotonin and norepinephrine in the forebrain. Acetylsalicylic acid curtails the acetaminophen-induced rise in brain norepinephrine levels as well as enhances serotonin metabolism, indicating that analgesic preparations containing both agents would be advantageous, as this would prevent acetaminophen-induced mood elevation. The results from the pineal indole metabolism study show that acetylsalicylic acid enhances pineal metabolism of serotonin whereas acetaminophen induces an increase in melatonin levels in the pineal gland. Neuronal damage due to oxidative stress has been implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders such as AD and PD. The second part of the study aims to elucidate and characterize the mechanism by which acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen afford neuroprotection. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for memory. Agents such as quinolinic acid that are known to induce stress in this area have detrimental effects and could lead to various types of dementia. The striatum is also a vulnerable region to oxidative stress and hence (MPP+), which is toxic for this particular region of the brain, was also used as a neurotoxin. The results show that ASA and acetaminophen alone and in combination, are potent superoxide anion scavengers. In addition, the results imply that these agents offer protection against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by several neurotoxins in rat brain particularly, the hippocampus and striatum. Histological studies, using Nissl staining and Acid fuchsin, show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen are able to protect hippocampal neurons against quinolinic acidinduced necrotic cell death. Immunohistochemical investigations show that QA induces apoptotic cell death in the hippocampus, which is inhibited by ASA and acetaminophen. In addition, ASA and acetaminophen inhibited MPP+ induced apoptotic cell death in the rat striatum. The study also sought to elucidate possible mechanisms by which ASA and acetaminophen exert neuroprotective effects in the presence of MPP+ as these agents are shown to prevent the MPP+-induced reduction in dopamine levels. The results show that acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen inhibit the action of this neurotoxin on the mitochondrial electron transport chain, a common source of free radicals in the cell. In addition, these agents were shown to block the neurotoxic effects of MPP+ on the enzymatic defence system of the brain i.e. superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. The reduction in glutathione levels induced by MPP+ is significantly inhibited by acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen. The results imply that these agents are capable of not only scavenging free radicals but also enhance the cell defence mechanism against toxicity in the presence of MPP+. These agents also block the MPP+-induced inhibition of dopamine uptake into the cell. This would therefore reduce auto-oxidation of dopamine thus implying another mechanism by which these agents exert a neuroprotective role in MPP+-induced neurotoxicity. The discovery of neuroprotective properties of acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen is important considering the high usage of these agents and the increased incidence in neurological disorders. The findings of this thesis point to the need for clinical studies to be conducted as the results show acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen to have a definite role to play as antioxidants. This study therefore provides novel information regarding the neuroprotective effects of these agents and favours the use of these agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD and PD, in which oxidative stress is implicated.
- Full Text:
An investigation into the possible neuroprotective or neurotoxic properties of metrifonate
- Authors: Ramsunder, Adrusha
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Neurotoxic agents , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Metrifonate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007560 , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Neurotoxic agents , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Metrifonate
- Description: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, in which there is a marked decline in neurotransmitters, especially those of the cholinergic pathways. One of the approaches to the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease is the inhibition of the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, using an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. One such drug tested, is the organophosphate, metrifonate. Any drug used for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders should preferably not induce further neurological damage. Thus, in the present study, we investigated whether or not metrifonate is neuroprotective. The in vivo and in vitro effect of this drug on free radicals generation shows that metrifonate increases the level ofthese reactive species. Lipid peroxidation induced using quinolinic acid (QA) and iron (II) and show that metrifonate increased the peroxidative damage induced by using quinolinic acid. Metrifonate is also able to induce lipid peroxidation both in vivo and in vitro. This was reduced in vitro in the presence of melatonin. Using iron (II), in vi/ro, there was no significant difference in the level of lipid peroxidation in the presence of this drug. An investigation of the activity of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and complex I of the electron transport chain in the presence of metrifonate revealed that metrifonate reduces the activity of the electron transport chain at the level of complex I. The activity of the mitochondrial electron transport chain was restored in the presence of melatonin. Pineal organ culture showed that metrifonate does not increase melatonin production. Histological and apoptosis studies show that tissue necrosis and apoptosis respectively, occur in the presence of this agent, which is reduced in the presence of melatonin. Metal binding studies were performed USing ultraviolet spectroscopy, and electrochemical analysis to examine the interaction of metrifonate with iron (II) and iron (III). No shift in the peak was observed in the ultraviolet spectrum when iron (ll) was added to metrifonate. Electrochemical studies show that there may be a very weak or no ligand formed between the metal and drug. This study shows that while drugs such as metrifonate may be beneficial in restoring cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease, it could also have the potential to enhance neurodegeneration, thus worsening the condition, in the long term. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ramsunder, Adrusha
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Neurotoxic agents , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Metrifonate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007560 , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Neurotoxic agents , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Metrifonate
- Description: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, in which there is a marked decline in neurotransmitters, especially those of the cholinergic pathways. One of the approaches to the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease is the inhibition of the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, using an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. One such drug tested, is the organophosphate, metrifonate. Any drug used for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders should preferably not induce further neurological damage. Thus, in the present study, we investigated whether or not metrifonate is neuroprotective. The in vivo and in vitro effect of this drug on free radicals generation shows that metrifonate increases the level ofthese reactive species. Lipid peroxidation induced using quinolinic acid (QA) and iron (II) and show that metrifonate increased the peroxidative damage induced by using quinolinic acid. Metrifonate is also able to induce lipid peroxidation both in vivo and in vitro. This was reduced in vitro in the presence of melatonin. Using iron (II), in vi/ro, there was no significant difference in the level of lipid peroxidation in the presence of this drug. An investigation of the activity of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and complex I of the electron transport chain in the presence of metrifonate revealed that metrifonate reduces the activity of the electron transport chain at the level of complex I. The activity of the mitochondrial electron transport chain was restored in the presence of melatonin. Pineal organ culture showed that metrifonate does not increase melatonin production. Histological and apoptosis studies show that tissue necrosis and apoptosis respectively, occur in the presence of this agent, which is reduced in the presence of melatonin. Metal binding studies were performed USing ultraviolet spectroscopy, and electrochemical analysis to examine the interaction of metrifonate with iron (II) and iron (III). No shift in the peak was observed in the ultraviolet spectrum when iron (ll) was added to metrifonate. Electrochemical studies show that there may be a very weak or no ligand formed between the metal and drug. This study shows that while drugs such as metrifonate may be beneficial in restoring cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease, it could also have the potential to enhance neurodegeneration, thus worsening the condition, in the long term. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
An investigation of instructional leadership in a Namibian teacher training college
- Alexander, Christa Henriette
- Authors: Alexander, Christa Henriette
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Windhoek College of Education Educational leadership -- Namibia Education -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003516
- Description: This thesis investigates how instructional leaders at the Windhoek College of Education (in Namibia) make sense of their roles. The Windhoek College of Education (WCE) was selected for this study because that is where I work, therefore it would be easy to observe some of the responses provided by the interviewees. It was also observed that instructional leadership is little researched in Namibia and hence study would contribute towards understanding the various perceptions that instructional leaders have of their roles. There is a need for information about the skills and tasks required to support practices of instructional leadership so that the best possible instruction can be provided. The thesis examines and presents such skills. A qualitative research framework, in particular an interpretative approach was used for the study. As my research is concerned with people’s perceptions, it is located in the interpretative paradigm. Semi-structured, open-ended interview questions were asked in order to gather information on how the participants make meaning of their roles as instructional leaders. The sample for the study consisted of eleven instructional leaders over different levels, i.e., executive leaders, leaders on middle-management level and leaders on classroom-instructional level. The findings indicated a narrow view of instructional leadership at the college. Factors contributing to this narrowness are addressed, e.g., the way concepts such as delegation, guidance and monitoring/supervision are perceived. The findings also addressed certain expectations that are needed from instructional leaders in order to ensure efficiency in their practice. The study concludes by recommending alternative, expansive ways of thinking about instructional leadership.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Alexander, Christa Henriette
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Windhoek College of Education Educational leadership -- Namibia Education -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003516
- Description: This thesis investigates how instructional leaders at the Windhoek College of Education (in Namibia) make sense of their roles. The Windhoek College of Education (WCE) was selected for this study because that is where I work, therefore it would be easy to observe some of the responses provided by the interviewees. It was also observed that instructional leadership is little researched in Namibia and hence study would contribute towards understanding the various perceptions that instructional leaders have of their roles. There is a need for information about the skills and tasks required to support practices of instructional leadership so that the best possible instruction can be provided. The thesis examines and presents such skills. A qualitative research framework, in particular an interpretative approach was used for the study. As my research is concerned with people’s perceptions, it is located in the interpretative paradigm. Semi-structured, open-ended interview questions were asked in order to gather information on how the participants make meaning of their roles as instructional leaders. The sample for the study consisted of eleven instructional leaders over different levels, i.e., executive leaders, leaders on middle-management level and leaders on classroom-instructional level. The findings indicated a narrow view of instructional leadership at the college. Factors contributing to this narrowness are addressed, e.g., the way concepts such as delegation, guidance and monitoring/supervision are perceived. The findings also addressed certain expectations that are needed from instructional leaders in order to ensure efficiency in their practice. The study concludes by recommending alternative, expansive ways of thinking about instructional leadership.
- Full Text:
Animal suffering in factory farming and the best way to prevent it
- Authors: Watkins, Gareth
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Vegetarianism -- Moral and ethical aspects Food animals -- Moral and ethical aspects Animal rights Animal welfare Animal welfare -- Moral and ethical aspects Vegetarianism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2728 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003736
- Description: This thesis moves beyond the traditional approaches of how we ought to treat animals, and instead concentrates on the best strategy for preventing animal suffering in the farming industry. Chapter 1 considers the question of how we can know that animals feel pain, and concludes not only that it is rational to believe that they can, but also that this is a significant fact. Chapter 2 then analyses one possible strategy for helping to prevent animal suffering, namely demi-vegetarianism. For a number of reasons, however, this strategy is found to be flawed, therefore Chapter 3 analyses a second possible strategy, namely vegetarianism, and concludes that this is, in fact, the best strategy for helping to prevent animal suffering in the farming industry.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Watkins, Gareth
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Vegetarianism -- Moral and ethical aspects Food animals -- Moral and ethical aspects Animal rights Animal welfare Animal welfare -- Moral and ethical aspects Vegetarianism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2728 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003736
- Description: This thesis moves beyond the traditional approaches of how we ought to treat animals, and instead concentrates on the best strategy for preventing animal suffering in the farming industry. Chapter 1 considers the question of how we can know that animals feel pain, and concludes not only that it is rational to believe that they can, but also that this is a significant fact. Chapter 2 then analyses one possible strategy for helping to prevent animal suffering, namely demi-vegetarianism. For a number of reasons, however, this strategy is found to be flawed, therefore Chapter 3 analyses a second possible strategy, namely vegetarianism, and concludes that this is, in fact, the best strategy for helping to prevent animal suffering in the farming industry.
- Full Text:
Coastal dune dynamics and management at the Bushman's River mouth, Kenton-on-Sea
- Authors: Fraser, Claire
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Sand dunes -- South Africa -- Management , Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4192 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003761 , Sand dunes -- South Africa -- Management , Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Description: A study of the dynamics and functions of a coastal dunefield at the Bushman’s River Mouth in Kenton-on-Sea was conducted to provide essential information for the formulation of a management strategy based on an ecosystem approach. Bi-monthly tacheometric surveys were undertaken at the Westbourne Road Car Park dunefield to investigate the sedimentological processes. Changes in the topography, the amount and rate of sand accretion were monitored. Accretion and progradation were the dominant long-term sedimentological processes at the site. Long-term spatial variation in these processes corresponded to the temporal pattern of sedimentation in the river mouth while short-term variation resulted from dynamics inherent to the types of dunes present. Factors affecting aeolian accretion at the site are topography, river mouth configuration, dune types and the presence of vegetation as well as the seasonal wind regime. A vegetation study, recording species present, cover and abundance of the plants along the surveyed transects, was also conducted to examine the progressive establishment of vegetation. Five plant communities were discerned namely, saltmarsh, pioneer, enriched pioneer, open scrub, closed scrub and scrub-thicket communities. The spatial distribution of these communities coincided with the north-westerly development of the sandbank. A successional trend in community change occurred along a gradient of increasing diversity, complexity and age. Initially, autogenic changes wrought by pioneer species facilitated the recruitment and survival of other species and commenced succession at the study site. Multiple successional pathways were discussed in relation to subsequent species establishment that occurred after facilitation. The amalgamation of ecological data with a social study in the form of public perception surveys allowed for a greater understanding of the present interactions between the ecosystem and the demands placed on it. The area primarily functions as a recreational site that offered numerous beach and water-related activities. A lack of information regarding the ecology and management programmes influenced public perception of the environment and management issues in general. Different management perspectives and the use of the information presented in this study were also discussed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fraser, Claire
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Sand dunes -- South Africa -- Management , Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4192 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003761 , Sand dunes -- South Africa -- Management , Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Description: A study of the dynamics and functions of a coastal dunefield at the Bushman’s River Mouth in Kenton-on-Sea was conducted to provide essential information for the formulation of a management strategy based on an ecosystem approach. Bi-monthly tacheometric surveys were undertaken at the Westbourne Road Car Park dunefield to investigate the sedimentological processes. Changes in the topography, the amount and rate of sand accretion were monitored. Accretion and progradation were the dominant long-term sedimentological processes at the site. Long-term spatial variation in these processes corresponded to the temporal pattern of sedimentation in the river mouth while short-term variation resulted from dynamics inherent to the types of dunes present. Factors affecting aeolian accretion at the site are topography, river mouth configuration, dune types and the presence of vegetation as well as the seasonal wind regime. A vegetation study, recording species present, cover and abundance of the plants along the surveyed transects, was also conducted to examine the progressive establishment of vegetation. Five plant communities were discerned namely, saltmarsh, pioneer, enriched pioneer, open scrub, closed scrub and scrub-thicket communities. The spatial distribution of these communities coincided with the north-westerly development of the sandbank. A successional trend in community change occurred along a gradient of increasing diversity, complexity and age. Initially, autogenic changes wrought by pioneer species facilitated the recruitment and survival of other species and commenced succession at the study site. Multiple successional pathways were discussed in relation to subsequent species establishment that occurred after facilitation. The amalgamation of ecological data with a social study in the form of public perception surveys allowed for a greater understanding of the present interactions between the ecosystem and the demands placed on it. The area primarily functions as a recreational site that offered numerous beach and water-related activities. A lack of information regarding the ecology and management programmes influenced public perception of the environment and management issues in general. Different management perspectives and the use of the information presented in this study were also discussed.
- Full Text:
Developing an environmental education strategy framework: a case study of the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT)
- Authors: O'Grady, Janis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Endangered Wildlife Trust Environmental education -- South Africa Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1494 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003375
- Description: The study focused on the development of an environmental education (EE) strategy framework in the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) of South Africa. Evidence shows that the roles of conservation and biodiversity education could potentially be merged towards producing a practical strategy, beneficial to the organisation and its individual staff members. Questionnaires, interviews and the individual perceptions of staff members, as well as the analysis of relevant documents, suggested that the potential for the practice of EE towards the development of an EE strategy within the organisation is substantial. EWT staff members can contribute towards a change in the way that South Africans think about conservation and nature. Environmental ethics need to be promoted and understood by all. Within the EWT, environmental education activities are in place and diverse, yet they lack any form of monitoring and evaluation. The Trust is already practicing a form of EE but the potential to do more and the opportunities for expansion are unlimited.
- Full Text:
- Authors: O'Grady, Janis
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Endangered Wildlife Trust Environmental education -- South Africa Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1494 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003375
- Description: The study focused on the development of an environmental education (EE) strategy framework in the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) of South Africa. Evidence shows that the roles of conservation and biodiversity education could potentially be merged towards producing a practical strategy, beneficial to the organisation and its individual staff members. Questionnaires, interviews and the individual perceptions of staff members, as well as the analysis of relevant documents, suggested that the potential for the practice of EE towards the development of an EE strategy within the organisation is substantial. EWT staff members can contribute towards a change in the way that South Africans think about conservation and nature. Environmental ethics need to be promoted and understood by all. Within the EWT, environmental education activities are in place and diverse, yet they lack any form of monitoring and evaluation. The Trust is already practicing a form of EE but the potential to do more and the opportunities for expansion are unlimited.
- Full Text:
Discourses surrounding 'race', equity, disadvantage and transformation in times of rapid social change : higher education in post-apartheid South Africa
- Authors: Robus, Donovan
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodes University , University of Fort Hare , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa , Apartheid -- South Africa , Discourse analysis -- Methodology , Discrimination in education -- South Africa , Educational change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007196 , Rhodes University , University of Fort Hare , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa , Apartheid -- South Africa , Discourse analysis -- Methodology , Discrimination in education -- South Africa , Educational change -- South Africa
- Description: Since the dismantling of Apartheid in South Africa in 1994, the South African socio-political and economic landscape has been characterised by rapid change. In the ten years since the 'new' democratic South Africa emerged, transformation has become a dominant discourse that has driven much action and practice in a variety of public areas. One of the areas of focus for transformation has been Higher Education whereby the Department of Education aimed to do away with disparity caused by Apartheid segregation by reducing the number of Higher Education institutions from 36 to 21. This research draws on Foucauldian theory and post-colonial theories (in particular Edward Said and Frantz Fanon), and the concept of racialisation in an analysis of the incorporation of Rhodes University's East London campus into the University of Fort Hare. Ian Parker's discourse analytic approach which suggests that discourses support institutions, reproduce power relations and have ideological effects, was utilised to analyse the talk of students and staff at the three sites affected by the incorporation (viz. Rhodes, Grahamstown, Rhodes, East London and Fort Hare) as well as newspaper articles and public statements made by the two institutions. What emerged was that in post-Apartheid South Africa, institutional and geographic space is still racialised with virtually no reference to the historical and contextual foundations from which this emerged being made. In positioning space and institutions in this racialised manner a discourse of 'white' excellence and 'black' failure emerges with the notion of competence gaining legitimacy through an appeal to academic standards. In addition to this, transformation emerges as a signifier of shifting boundaries in a post-Apartheid society where racialised institutional, spatial and social boundaries evidently still exist discursively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Robus, Donovan
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodes University , University of Fort Hare , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa , Apartheid -- South Africa , Discourse analysis -- Methodology , Discrimination in education -- South Africa , Educational change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007196 , Rhodes University , University of Fort Hare , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education and state -- South Africa , Apartheid -- South Africa , Discourse analysis -- Methodology , Discrimination in education -- South Africa , Educational change -- South Africa
- Description: Since the dismantling of Apartheid in South Africa in 1994, the South African socio-political and economic landscape has been characterised by rapid change. In the ten years since the 'new' democratic South Africa emerged, transformation has become a dominant discourse that has driven much action and practice in a variety of public areas. One of the areas of focus for transformation has been Higher Education whereby the Department of Education aimed to do away with disparity caused by Apartheid segregation by reducing the number of Higher Education institutions from 36 to 21. This research draws on Foucauldian theory and post-colonial theories (in particular Edward Said and Frantz Fanon), and the concept of racialisation in an analysis of the incorporation of Rhodes University's East London campus into the University of Fort Hare. Ian Parker's discourse analytic approach which suggests that discourses support institutions, reproduce power relations and have ideological effects, was utilised to analyse the talk of students and staff at the three sites affected by the incorporation (viz. Rhodes, Grahamstown, Rhodes, East London and Fort Hare) as well as newspaper articles and public statements made by the two institutions. What emerged was that in post-Apartheid South Africa, institutional and geographic space is still racialised with virtually no reference to the historical and contextual foundations from which this emerged being made. In positioning space and institutions in this racialised manner a discourse of 'white' excellence and 'black' failure emerges with the notion of competence gaining legitimacy through an appeal to academic standards. In addition to this, transformation emerges as a signifier of shifting boundaries in a post-Apartheid society where racialised institutional, spatial and social boundaries evidently still exist discursively.
- Full Text:
Enabling reflexivity and the development of reflexive competence within course processes: a case study of an environmental education professional development course
- Authors: Raven, Glenda C
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodes University / Gold Fields Course in Environmental Education Environmental education -- Research -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa -- Curricula Competency-based education -- South Africa Education and state -- South Africa Education -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1507 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003389
- Description: This research was undertaken in the context of socio-economic transformation in South Africa, and more specifically, in the context of change in education policy. To support socio-economic transformation in South Africa after the first democratic elections in 1994, a competence-based National Qualifications Framework (NQF) was introduced in 1995. In responding to the particular socio-historical context of South Africa, the South African NQF is underpinned by the notion of applied competence, integrating practical, foundational and reflexive competence, which is the key and distinguishing feature of this competence-based framework. In this context of transformation, the research was aimed at an in-depth exploration of the notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence, and course processes that enable its development, with a view to providing curriculum development insights for learning programme development in the competence-based NQF, more broadly, and environmental education professional development programmes, more specifically. To enable these aims, the research was undertaken in the context of the Rhodes University / Gold Fields Participatory Course in Environmental Education (RU/GF course), as a case example of a professional development course that aims to develop critically reflexive practitioners. Within an interpretivist orientation, a multiple-embedded case study approach was used to gain insight into the relationship between course processes, reflexivity and the development of reflexive competence to clarify and provide a critical perspective on how competence develops in the context of the course. Data was collected over a period of one year using observation, interviewing and document analysis as the primary data collection techniques. Data was analysed through various phases and layers to inform data generation and the synthesising of data for further interpretation. Through the literature review undertaken within the study, various significant insights emerged around the notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence. Firstly, there appears to be a need to distinguish between reflexivity as social processes of change (social actions and interactions within social systems, structures and processes) and reflexive competence (a range of integrative elements of competence) that provides the evidence of an engagement within social processes of change. The second key insight emerging is the significance of social structure in shaping participation in reflexive processes, thus emphasising the duality of structure as both the medium for, and outcome of reflexive social actions and interactions and so challenges the deterministic conception of social structure. Further, the significance of an epistemologically framed notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence emerged, in the context of responding to the complex and uncertain quality of socio-ecological risks and in supporting change in context. Reflexivity, distinguished from processes of critical reflection, foregrounds a critical exploration of both knowledge and unawareness. As such a reinterpretation of reflexive competence is offered as a process of potential challenge to dominant and reigning forms of reasoning (knowledge frameworks) and consequent principles of ordering. Through this reframing of reflexive competence, the potential exists to destabilise dominant forms of reasoning and principles of ordering to create a broader scope of possibilities for action and change in context. This reframing of reflexive competence in the context of transformation in South Africa has critical implications for engaging within processes of learning programme design in the NQF to support an engagement within reflexive processes of change and the development of a range of integrative elements of reflexive competence. In this light, the study attempts to make the following contribution to curriculum deliberations within the context of environmental education and the NQF in relation to reflexivity, reflexive competence and change: ♦ Reflexivity is conceptualised as social processes of change with reflexive competence providing evidence of engagement within these social processes of change; ♦ An epistemologically framed conception of reflexivity and reflexive competence recognises how rules of reason and the ordering of the ‘reasonable’ person come to shape social life; and so ♦ Change is conceptualised as ruptures and breaks in dominant knowledge frames and the power relations embedded in these; ♦ Unawareness emerges as a key dimension within reflexive environmental education processes in responding to the unpredictable and uncertain nature of risks; ♦ An epistemological framing of reflexivity and reflexive competence highlights the need to develop open processes of learning to support the critical exploration of knowledge and unawareness; and ♦ Within this framing of reflexivity and reflexive competence, the difficulty emerges in specifically predefining reflexive competence to inform standard setting processes within a context of intended change. In framing data within this emerging conception of reflexivity and reflexive competence, a review of course processes highlighted potential areas for reorienting the RU/GF course to support change in context, for which I make specific recommendations. Drawing on the review of course processes in the RU/GF course, and in light of the reframing of reflexivity and reflexive competence, I further offer summative discussions as ‘possible implications’ for learning programme design in the South African competence-based NQF, broadly and environmental education professional development programmes in this framework, more specifically.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Raven, Glenda C
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rhodes University / Gold Fields Course in Environmental Education Environmental education -- Research -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa -- Curricula Competency-based education -- South Africa Education and state -- South Africa Education -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1507 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003389
- Description: This research was undertaken in the context of socio-economic transformation in South Africa, and more specifically, in the context of change in education policy. To support socio-economic transformation in South Africa after the first democratic elections in 1994, a competence-based National Qualifications Framework (NQF) was introduced in 1995. In responding to the particular socio-historical context of South Africa, the South African NQF is underpinned by the notion of applied competence, integrating practical, foundational and reflexive competence, which is the key and distinguishing feature of this competence-based framework. In this context of transformation, the research was aimed at an in-depth exploration of the notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence, and course processes that enable its development, with a view to providing curriculum development insights for learning programme development in the competence-based NQF, more broadly, and environmental education professional development programmes, more specifically. To enable these aims, the research was undertaken in the context of the Rhodes University / Gold Fields Participatory Course in Environmental Education (RU/GF course), as a case example of a professional development course that aims to develop critically reflexive practitioners. Within an interpretivist orientation, a multiple-embedded case study approach was used to gain insight into the relationship between course processes, reflexivity and the development of reflexive competence to clarify and provide a critical perspective on how competence develops in the context of the course. Data was collected over a period of one year using observation, interviewing and document analysis as the primary data collection techniques. Data was analysed through various phases and layers to inform data generation and the synthesising of data for further interpretation. Through the literature review undertaken within the study, various significant insights emerged around the notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence. Firstly, there appears to be a need to distinguish between reflexivity as social processes of change (social actions and interactions within social systems, structures and processes) and reflexive competence (a range of integrative elements of competence) that provides the evidence of an engagement within social processes of change. The second key insight emerging is the significance of social structure in shaping participation in reflexive processes, thus emphasising the duality of structure as both the medium for, and outcome of reflexive social actions and interactions and so challenges the deterministic conception of social structure. Further, the significance of an epistemologically framed notion of reflexivity and reflexive competence emerged, in the context of responding to the complex and uncertain quality of socio-ecological risks and in supporting change in context. Reflexivity, distinguished from processes of critical reflection, foregrounds a critical exploration of both knowledge and unawareness. As such a reinterpretation of reflexive competence is offered as a process of potential challenge to dominant and reigning forms of reasoning (knowledge frameworks) and consequent principles of ordering. Through this reframing of reflexive competence, the potential exists to destabilise dominant forms of reasoning and principles of ordering to create a broader scope of possibilities for action and change in context. This reframing of reflexive competence in the context of transformation in South Africa has critical implications for engaging within processes of learning programme design in the NQF to support an engagement within reflexive processes of change and the development of a range of integrative elements of reflexive competence. In this light, the study attempts to make the following contribution to curriculum deliberations within the context of environmental education and the NQF in relation to reflexivity, reflexive competence and change: ♦ Reflexivity is conceptualised as social processes of change with reflexive competence providing evidence of engagement within these social processes of change; ♦ An epistemologically framed conception of reflexivity and reflexive competence recognises how rules of reason and the ordering of the ‘reasonable’ person come to shape social life; and so ♦ Change is conceptualised as ruptures and breaks in dominant knowledge frames and the power relations embedded in these; ♦ Unawareness emerges as a key dimension within reflexive environmental education processes in responding to the unpredictable and uncertain nature of risks; ♦ An epistemological framing of reflexivity and reflexive competence highlights the need to develop open processes of learning to support the critical exploration of knowledge and unawareness; and ♦ Within this framing of reflexivity and reflexive competence, the difficulty emerges in specifically predefining reflexive competence to inform standard setting processes within a context of intended change. In framing data within this emerging conception of reflexivity and reflexive competence, a review of course processes highlighted potential areas for reorienting the RU/GF course to support change in context, for which I make specific recommendations. Drawing on the review of course processes in the RU/GF course, and in light of the reframing of reflexivity and reflexive competence, I further offer summative discussions as ‘possible implications’ for learning programme design in the South African competence-based NQF, broadly and environmental education professional development programmes in this framework, more specifically.
- Full Text:
Establishment and impact of the sap-sucking mirid, Falconia intermedia (Distant) (Hemiptera: Miridae) on Lantana camara (Verbenaceae) varieties in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Heshula, Unathi-Nkosi Lelethu Peter
- Authors: Heshula, Unathi-Nkosi Lelethu Peter
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Lantana camara -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hemiptera -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Miridae -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008085
- Description: The biological control of the weedy complex Lantana camara (L.) (Verbenaceae) has been ongoing in South Africa for over 40 years. Despite this, the weed is still not under sufficient control and continues to invade new territories in the country. The biological control programme needs to be bolstered with releases of new and potentially damaging biological control agents. A promising biological control agent endemic to Central America, Falconia intermedia (Distant) (Hemiptera: Miridae), was imported into quarantine from Jamaica in 1994. This agent was released on sites in KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces of South Africa in 1999. Even though it initially established and damaged L. camara, populations died out at most of the release sites. As varietal difference and adverse climate have been cited as the reason for non-establishment and ineffective control in L. camara biocontrol programmes worldwide, this study attempts to investigate the role that these two factors play in this weed herbivore relationship. Laboratory no-choice trials were conducted to determine the varietal performance of F intermedia, among five Eastern Cape varieties of the weed from East London, Whitney Farm, Heather Glen Farm, Port Alfred and Lyndhurst Farm, and a variety from the Plant Protection Research Institute (PPRI), Pretoria. However, there were differences in performance as the adult mirids performed better on white-pink varieties from Whitney Farm and Heather Glen Farm. To test varietal preference in field conditions, field releases of F intermedia were also made at East London, Whitney Farm, Heather Glen Farm, Port Alfred and Lyndhurst Farm. Post release evaluations were conducted monthly for two years (2002 and 2003). The insect established at East London and Whitney Farm, both of which have white-pink varieties. Insect populations quickly died out at the Lyndhurst Farm and Port Alfred sites, which have dark pink varieties. It is suggested that field conditions may have resulted in poor plant quality and led indirectly to varietal preference, and to non-establishment at these two sites. With the onset of cooler weather, populations disappeared at Heather Glen Farm. This suggested that F. intermedia was suitable for release in more subtropical areas within South Africa where climatic conditions would be suitable throughout the year. The mirid performed well at Whitney Farm, resulting in significant reduction in plant growth parameters such as height and percentage cover, and increasing the cover of other flora growing beneath L. camara plants. Finally, ways to improve the efficacy of this agent are considered in an effort towards better control of L. camara in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Heshula, Unathi-Nkosi Lelethu Peter
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Lantana camara -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hemiptera -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Miridae -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008085
- Description: The biological control of the weedy complex Lantana camara (L.) (Verbenaceae) has been ongoing in South Africa for over 40 years. Despite this, the weed is still not under sufficient control and continues to invade new territories in the country. The biological control programme needs to be bolstered with releases of new and potentially damaging biological control agents. A promising biological control agent endemic to Central America, Falconia intermedia (Distant) (Hemiptera: Miridae), was imported into quarantine from Jamaica in 1994. This agent was released on sites in KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces of South Africa in 1999. Even though it initially established and damaged L. camara, populations died out at most of the release sites. As varietal difference and adverse climate have been cited as the reason for non-establishment and ineffective control in L. camara biocontrol programmes worldwide, this study attempts to investigate the role that these two factors play in this weed herbivore relationship. Laboratory no-choice trials were conducted to determine the varietal performance of F intermedia, among five Eastern Cape varieties of the weed from East London, Whitney Farm, Heather Glen Farm, Port Alfred and Lyndhurst Farm, and a variety from the Plant Protection Research Institute (PPRI), Pretoria. However, there were differences in performance as the adult mirids performed better on white-pink varieties from Whitney Farm and Heather Glen Farm. To test varietal preference in field conditions, field releases of F intermedia were also made at East London, Whitney Farm, Heather Glen Farm, Port Alfred and Lyndhurst Farm. Post release evaluations were conducted monthly for two years (2002 and 2003). The insect established at East London and Whitney Farm, both of which have white-pink varieties. Insect populations quickly died out at the Lyndhurst Farm and Port Alfred sites, which have dark pink varieties. It is suggested that field conditions may have resulted in poor plant quality and led indirectly to varietal preference, and to non-establishment at these two sites. With the onset of cooler weather, populations disappeared at Heather Glen Farm. This suggested that F. intermedia was suitable for release in more subtropical areas within South Africa where climatic conditions would be suitable throughout the year. The mirid performed well at Whitney Farm, resulting in significant reduction in plant growth parameters such as height and percentage cover, and increasing the cover of other flora growing beneath L. camara plants. Finally, ways to improve the efficacy of this agent are considered in an effort towards better control of L. camara in South Africa.
- Full Text:
Geology, structure and mineralization of the Onguati area, Karibib district, central Namibia
- Authors: Viljoen, Wayne
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Geology -- Namibia -- Karibib , Geology, Structural -- Namibia -- Karibib , Mines and mineral resources -- Namibia -- Karibib
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005576 , Geology -- Namibia -- Karibib , Geology, Structural -- Namibia -- Karibib , Mines and mineral resources -- Namibia -- Karibib
- Description: The study area is situated in the Southern Central Zone of the intracontinental Pan-African Damara Orogen, approximately 20km NNE of Navachab Gold Mine in the Karibib district of Namibia. Mesothermal vein systems with Cu-Fe±Au mineralization are hosted by amphibolite facies calcitic and dolomitic marbles belonging to the Navachab Member of the Karibib Formation, and are best developed around the defunct Onguati Copper Mine, Brown Mountain and Western Workings areas. The Onguati study area is located in the saddle region of a moderately-to-gently inclined anticlinorium that experienced significant flattening during NNW-SSE-directed compression. The parallelogram arrangement of ENE- and NNE-trending thrusts and reverse faults that surround the Onguati study area may have developed when the direction of greatest principle subregional stress was oriented WSW-ESE. These structures define part of a Riedel shear system and later faults may have developed in the position of R and P shears respectively. Significant strain partitioning occurred between the ductile calcitic marbles which host the best developed, shear-related vein systems and the more competent dolomitic marbles. The thickness distributions of veins in the marbles of the Onguati Mine, Brown Mountain and Western Workings areas conform to a fractal or power-law distribution, The most intensely mineralized vein systems in the Onguati Mine and Western Workings calcitic marbles share similar low fractal dimensions (D-values) of 0.41 and 0.37 respectively. Veins In the calcitic and dolomitic marbles of the Brown Mountain area and in the dolomitic marbles of Western Workings have elevated D-values (>0.60) and are poorly mineralized. The low D-values «0.40) of the well mineralized vein systems reflect the higher degree of fracture connectivity. These vein systems were capable of efficiently draining and localizing large volumes of mineralizing fluids from crustal-scale structures. A metamorphic devolatization model is proposed where the entire Damaran metasedimentary and meta-volcanic package is seen as a large source area of very low concentrations of Cu, Au and other metals. Localization of deformation into crustal-scale faults and shear zones led to regional-scale hydrothermal fluid flow and focussing into the upstream fracture networks of the Onguati study area. Strong mineralization resulted when fluids encountered the reactive marble lithologies
- Full Text:
- Authors: Viljoen, Wayne
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Geology -- Namibia -- Karibib , Geology, Structural -- Namibia -- Karibib , Mines and mineral resources -- Namibia -- Karibib
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005576 , Geology -- Namibia -- Karibib , Geology, Structural -- Namibia -- Karibib , Mines and mineral resources -- Namibia -- Karibib
- Description: The study area is situated in the Southern Central Zone of the intracontinental Pan-African Damara Orogen, approximately 20km NNE of Navachab Gold Mine in the Karibib district of Namibia. Mesothermal vein systems with Cu-Fe±Au mineralization are hosted by amphibolite facies calcitic and dolomitic marbles belonging to the Navachab Member of the Karibib Formation, and are best developed around the defunct Onguati Copper Mine, Brown Mountain and Western Workings areas. The Onguati study area is located in the saddle region of a moderately-to-gently inclined anticlinorium that experienced significant flattening during NNW-SSE-directed compression. The parallelogram arrangement of ENE- and NNE-trending thrusts and reverse faults that surround the Onguati study area may have developed when the direction of greatest principle subregional stress was oriented WSW-ESE. These structures define part of a Riedel shear system and later faults may have developed in the position of R and P shears respectively. Significant strain partitioning occurred between the ductile calcitic marbles which host the best developed, shear-related vein systems and the more competent dolomitic marbles. The thickness distributions of veins in the marbles of the Onguati Mine, Brown Mountain and Western Workings areas conform to a fractal or power-law distribution, The most intensely mineralized vein systems in the Onguati Mine and Western Workings calcitic marbles share similar low fractal dimensions (D-values) of 0.41 and 0.37 respectively. Veins In the calcitic and dolomitic marbles of the Brown Mountain area and in the dolomitic marbles of Western Workings have elevated D-values (>0.60) and are poorly mineralized. The low D-values «0.40) of the well mineralized vein systems reflect the higher degree of fracture connectivity. These vein systems were capable of efficiently draining and localizing large volumes of mineralizing fluids from crustal-scale structures. A metamorphic devolatization model is proposed where the entire Damaran metasedimentary and meta-volcanic package is seen as a large source area of very low concentrations of Cu, Au and other metals. Localization of deformation into crustal-scale faults and shear zones led to regional-scale hydrothermal fluid flow and focussing into the upstream fracture networks of the Onguati study area. Strong mineralization resulted when fluids encountered the reactive marble lithologies
- Full Text:
Impacts of wildlife and cattle grazing on spider (araneae) biodiversity in a highland savanna ecosystem, in Laikipia, Central Kenya
- Authors: Warui, Charles Mwaura
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Spiders -- Kenya Environmental monitoring -- Kenya Savanna ecology -- Kenya Biodiversity -- Kenya Species diversity -- Kenya Wildlife management -- Kenya Herbivores -- Ecology -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005398
- Description: Spiders were sampled at Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia, Kenya by pitfall-trapping and sweep-netting from May 2001 to July 2002, at a Kenyan Long-term Exclosure Experiment. The aim was to establish species composition, checklist and examine spider responses to disturbances caused by cattle, megaherbivores (giraffe and elephants) and mesoherbivores (other ungulates) by looking at three levels of resolution, namely the overall community, guilds and individual species. This is the first controlled replicated experimental study on the effects on invertebrates (spiders) by different land uses (access by large herbivores). A total of 10,487 individuals from 132 species belonging to 30 families were recorded. The family Salticidae had the highest number of species (24), followed by Gnaphosidae (20), Araneidae and Lycosidae (15 each), Theridiidae and Thomisidae (8 each) and Zodariidae (4). Most of the other families had fewer than 4 species. Throughout the study period, species not previously sampled emerged after rainfall peaks. Exclosure treatments affected plant cover, spider diversity and total species mainly through the effects of cattle, whose presence significantly reduced relative vegetation cover. An increase in vegetation cover significantly increased the diversity, total species and species evenness of the overall spider community (total samples data set). Megaherbivores and mesoherbivores had no effects on overall spider diversity. Relative vegetation cover explained approximately 20-30% of variation in community diversity, species richness and species evenness. At the guild level of resolution, the exclosure treatments had no significant effects on diversity, species richness and species evenness of web builders, plant wanderers and ground wanderers. Plant wanderers were significantly and positively correlated with relative vegetation cover, which explained 17% of variation in their diversity. Six individual species responded strongly and in contrasting ways to the same environmental variables, indicating that this level was more sensitive to environmental changes than guilds or the overall spider community. Spider diversity, relative vegetation cover and rainfall varied at a temporal scale of months and not at a spatial scale of hundreds of metres. Only species diversity and species richness from sweep-netting samples and total species from pitfall-trapping varied significantly at a spatial scale of hundreds of metres. Ordination analysis revealed that sweep-netting samples were a better indicator of grazing impacts than pitfalltrapping or combined samples and grouped to reflect cattle grazing, non-cattle grazing and to a small extent the control treatments. Other ordination analyses showed that only samples from sweep-netting and not from pitfall-trapping, were spatially partitioned at a scale of hundreds of metres. This study concludes that the spider fauna of black cotton soil habitats is rich and useful for environmental monitoring and that monitoring of several individual species as indicator of grazing impacts in savanna could be useful and relatively easy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Warui, Charles Mwaura
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Spiders -- Kenya Environmental monitoring -- Kenya Savanna ecology -- Kenya Biodiversity -- Kenya Species diversity -- Kenya Wildlife management -- Kenya Herbivores -- Ecology -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005398
- Description: Spiders were sampled at Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia, Kenya by pitfall-trapping and sweep-netting from May 2001 to July 2002, at a Kenyan Long-term Exclosure Experiment. The aim was to establish species composition, checklist and examine spider responses to disturbances caused by cattle, megaherbivores (giraffe and elephants) and mesoherbivores (other ungulates) by looking at three levels of resolution, namely the overall community, guilds and individual species. This is the first controlled replicated experimental study on the effects on invertebrates (spiders) by different land uses (access by large herbivores). A total of 10,487 individuals from 132 species belonging to 30 families were recorded. The family Salticidae had the highest number of species (24), followed by Gnaphosidae (20), Araneidae and Lycosidae (15 each), Theridiidae and Thomisidae (8 each) and Zodariidae (4). Most of the other families had fewer than 4 species. Throughout the study period, species not previously sampled emerged after rainfall peaks. Exclosure treatments affected plant cover, spider diversity and total species mainly through the effects of cattle, whose presence significantly reduced relative vegetation cover. An increase in vegetation cover significantly increased the diversity, total species and species evenness of the overall spider community (total samples data set). Megaherbivores and mesoherbivores had no effects on overall spider diversity. Relative vegetation cover explained approximately 20-30% of variation in community diversity, species richness and species evenness. At the guild level of resolution, the exclosure treatments had no significant effects on diversity, species richness and species evenness of web builders, plant wanderers and ground wanderers. Plant wanderers were significantly and positively correlated with relative vegetation cover, which explained 17% of variation in their diversity. Six individual species responded strongly and in contrasting ways to the same environmental variables, indicating that this level was more sensitive to environmental changes than guilds or the overall spider community. Spider diversity, relative vegetation cover and rainfall varied at a temporal scale of months and not at a spatial scale of hundreds of metres. Only species diversity and species richness from sweep-netting samples and total species from pitfall-trapping varied significantly at a spatial scale of hundreds of metres. Ordination analysis revealed that sweep-netting samples were a better indicator of grazing impacts than pitfalltrapping or combined samples and grouped to reflect cattle grazing, non-cattle grazing and to a small extent the control treatments. Other ordination analyses showed that only samples from sweep-netting and not from pitfall-trapping, were spatially partitioned at a scale of hundreds of metres. This study concludes that the spider fauna of black cotton soil habitats is rich and useful for environmental monitoring and that monitoring of several individual species as indicator of grazing impacts in savanna could be useful and relatively easy.
- Full Text:
Incorporating indigenous management in rock art sites in KwaZulu-Natal
- Authors: Ndlovu, Ndukuyakhe
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rock paintings -- Drakenberg Mountains , Cave paintings -- Drakensberg Mountains , San (African people) -- Art , Art, Prehistoric -- Drakensberg Mountains , Art, Prehistoric -- South Africa , Heritage tourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2089 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002652 , Rock paintings -- Drakenberg Mountains , Cave paintings -- Drakensberg Mountains , San (African people) -- Art , Art, Prehistoric -- Drakensberg Mountains , Art, Prehistoric -- South Africa , Heritage tourism -- South Africa
- Description: The majestic mountains of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg, formed many millennia ago were home to the Bushmen[footnote 1] or San people. They lived at these mountains for thousands of years before they were colonised by the Bantu speakers and the Europeans. Academic writings for many years have perpetuated the thinking that Bushman people were largely extinct. The dominance of this view in the academic writings was encouraged by historical evidence that Europeans and Bantu speakers hunted and killed Bushmen over the last several centuries. Researchers argue that the extermination of the Bushmen was because they were less human in the eyes of the foreigners, due to cattle raiding. There is still some element of this thinking amongst today’s academics, although research in the last decade is questioning this thinking. The question of whether descendants do exist is relevant to issues of rights of access to ancestral sacred sites, in particular rock art sites. At present, access to rock art sites is granted on qualification as an authentic fee-paying tourist (or affordability) rather than on group rights to a cultural heritage resource (cultural rights). Based on this, I argue that access to rock art sites is based on qualification rather than by right. This is largely driven by an approach that emphasises the physical conservation and financial sustainability of a site, rather than its spiritual maintenance. It has become clear that the interests in rock art by tourists and Bushman descendants are distinct from each other. Tourists have an aesthetic significance for rock art while Bushmen descendants have a spiritual significance for the paintings. Beyond any doubt, the physically based and financially driven approach has brought new challenges to today’s Bushmen descendants, whom in reaffirming their identities now have a new challenge to overcome. Not only are the rock art sites physically threatened but also they have lost much of their spiritual powers. Their fate lies in the hands of heritage officers who must determine access rights to the painted shelters. Both the National Heritage Resources Act and the KwaZulu-Natal Heritage Act acknowledge living heritage. However, the existence of this heritage is judged against the physical approach to rock art management. If the practises of descendants are perceived to be a threat to the rock art, they will not be approved. The case of the Duma is a classic example. Prior to the ritual ceremony at Game Pass Shelter, Kamberg, they were informed of the minimum standards for opening a rock art site to public and rules of how people should behave while visiting painted shelters. While it was evident that there are problems with the two approaches, the spiritual and physical approach, discussed in the thesis, it is important that solutions are identified. I do not believe that one approach on its own will be good enough, for reasons discussed in the thesis. Instead, the two approaches should be implemented together to compliment each other by identifying common grounds. I provide strategies as to how I believe that such a common ground can be reached. In addition, I provide my own analytical thinking as to how these strategies can be achieved. There is no general consensus over which term is appropriate. Both terms are considered by some academics to be derogatory or pejorative (Chennels 2003). San means vagabond and was given to the Bushmen by Khoi-Khoi people, because they considered themselves of a better social class, as they had domesticated animals and were more sedentary than Bushmen. However, according to WIMSA (Thoma 2003) the word San is derived from the Hai||om language meaning “people who gather”. It is normally written Saan but it has been accepted to write San. In 1993 the San requested to be called San when referred to as an entire group. If one refers to individual people/groups they like to be called by their language and cultural name i.e. Khwe, !Kung, !Xun, Ju|’hoansi, ‡Khomani, N|u, |’Auni, Hai||om, etc In this thesis, Bushmen is a preferred term, because it is a better-known term among the people who are central to this study. It is used without any insulting connotations attached to the term.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndlovu, Ndukuyakhe
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Rock paintings -- Drakenberg Mountains , Cave paintings -- Drakensberg Mountains , San (African people) -- Art , Art, Prehistoric -- Drakensberg Mountains , Art, Prehistoric -- South Africa , Heritage tourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2089 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002652 , Rock paintings -- Drakenberg Mountains , Cave paintings -- Drakensberg Mountains , San (African people) -- Art , Art, Prehistoric -- Drakensberg Mountains , Art, Prehistoric -- South Africa , Heritage tourism -- South Africa
- Description: The majestic mountains of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg, formed many millennia ago were home to the Bushmen[footnote 1] or San people. They lived at these mountains for thousands of years before they were colonised by the Bantu speakers and the Europeans. Academic writings for many years have perpetuated the thinking that Bushman people were largely extinct. The dominance of this view in the academic writings was encouraged by historical evidence that Europeans and Bantu speakers hunted and killed Bushmen over the last several centuries. Researchers argue that the extermination of the Bushmen was because they were less human in the eyes of the foreigners, due to cattle raiding. There is still some element of this thinking amongst today’s academics, although research in the last decade is questioning this thinking. The question of whether descendants do exist is relevant to issues of rights of access to ancestral sacred sites, in particular rock art sites. At present, access to rock art sites is granted on qualification as an authentic fee-paying tourist (or affordability) rather than on group rights to a cultural heritage resource (cultural rights). Based on this, I argue that access to rock art sites is based on qualification rather than by right. This is largely driven by an approach that emphasises the physical conservation and financial sustainability of a site, rather than its spiritual maintenance. It has become clear that the interests in rock art by tourists and Bushman descendants are distinct from each other. Tourists have an aesthetic significance for rock art while Bushmen descendants have a spiritual significance for the paintings. Beyond any doubt, the physically based and financially driven approach has brought new challenges to today’s Bushmen descendants, whom in reaffirming their identities now have a new challenge to overcome. Not only are the rock art sites physically threatened but also they have lost much of their spiritual powers. Their fate lies in the hands of heritage officers who must determine access rights to the painted shelters. Both the National Heritage Resources Act and the KwaZulu-Natal Heritage Act acknowledge living heritage. However, the existence of this heritage is judged against the physical approach to rock art management. If the practises of descendants are perceived to be a threat to the rock art, they will not be approved. The case of the Duma is a classic example. Prior to the ritual ceremony at Game Pass Shelter, Kamberg, they were informed of the minimum standards for opening a rock art site to public and rules of how people should behave while visiting painted shelters. While it was evident that there are problems with the two approaches, the spiritual and physical approach, discussed in the thesis, it is important that solutions are identified. I do not believe that one approach on its own will be good enough, for reasons discussed in the thesis. Instead, the two approaches should be implemented together to compliment each other by identifying common grounds. I provide strategies as to how I believe that such a common ground can be reached. In addition, I provide my own analytical thinking as to how these strategies can be achieved. There is no general consensus over which term is appropriate. Both terms are considered by some academics to be derogatory or pejorative (Chennels 2003). San means vagabond and was given to the Bushmen by Khoi-Khoi people, because they considered themselves of a better social class, as they had domesticated animals and were more sedentary than Bushmen. However, according to WIMSA (Thoma 2003) the word San is derived from the Hai||om language meaning “people who gather”. It is normally written Saan but it has been accepted to write San. In 1993 the San requested to be called San when referred to as an entire group. If one refers to individual people/groups they like to be called by their language and cultural name i.e. Khwe, !Kung, !Xun, Ju|’hoansi, ‡Khomani, N|u, |’Auni, Hai||om, etc In this thesis, Bushmen is a preferred term, because it is a better-known term among the people who are central to this study. It is used without any insulting connotations attached to the term.
- Full Text:
International relations and change: a Kuhnian interpretation
- Authors: Schoeman, Jacobus
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Kuhn, Thomas S Kuhn, Thomas S -- Criticism and interpretation International relations International relations -- Philosophy Knowledge, Theory of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2830 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003040
- Description: Using notions of change developed by Thomas Kuhn, the thesis argues that the rise of globalisation and the end of the Cold War presented the Westphalian or state-centric paradigm of international relations with a Kuhnian paradigm “crisis”. As a result, both the theory and the practice of international relations are in the midst of (what Kuhn calls) a “paradigm shift”. Emerging from this shift is (what is described in this work as) “Access World” and “Denial World” – a particular global configuration of the practice of international relations. Kuhn’s idea of “incommensurability” seems to typify the relationship between the two components of this bifurcated configuration of the international. Both intellectual risk-taking and political courage are required if the ontological struggle raging between “Access World” and “Denial World” is to be settled. This will pave the way for a new paradigm to emerge. Kuhn provides us with the insight that, to achieve this ontological breakthrough, a fundamental change in our vision of the discipline of International Relations, but also of the world of everyday international relations, is required. This entails recasting the study of International Relations as an emancipatory project and by recognising the centrality of human beings in the practice of international relations. Only if this is done, will we be able to arrive at a cosmopolitan political bargain that is appropriate for the 21st century.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Schoeman, Jacobus
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Kuhn, Thomas S Kuhn, Thomas S -- Criticism and interpretation International relations International relations -- Philosophy Knowledge, Theory of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2830 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003040
- Description: Using notions of change developed by Thomas Kuhn, the thesis argues that the rise of globalisation and the end of the Cold War presented the Westphalian or state-centric paradigm of international relations with a Kuhnian paradigm “crisis”. As a result, both the theory and the practice of international relations are in the midst of (what Kuhn calls) a “paradigm shift”. Emerging from this shift is (what is described in this work as) “Access World” and “Denial World” – a particular global configuration of the practice of international relations. Kuhn’s idea of “incommensurability” seems to typify the relationship between the two components of this bifurcated configuration of the international. Both intellectual risk-taking and political courage are required if the ontological struggle raging between “Access World” and “Denial World” is to be settled. This will pave the way for a new paradigm to emerge. Kuhn provides us with the insight that, to achieve this ontological breakthrough, a fundamental change in our vision of the discipline of International Relations, but also of the world of everyday international relations, is required. This entails recasting the study of International Relations as an emancipatory project and by recognising the centrality of human beings in the practice of international relations. Only if this is done, will we be able to arrive at a cosmopolitan political bargain that is appropriate for the 21st century.
- Full Text:
Isolation and characterization of a novel thermostable and catalytically efficient laccase from Peniophora sp. strain UD4
- Authors: Jordaan, Justin
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Enzymes Enzymes -- Industrial applications Peniophora Laccase
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004029
- Description: Enzymes are becoming an effective tool in industrial processes, from crude applications such as bioremediation to fine processes such as chirally selective biocatalysis. The ligninolytic enzymes have recently received considerable attention for industrial application due to both their broad substrate range and their ability to degrade the most recalcitrant natural polymer, lignin. This group of enzymes was therefore identified as the target group for this study. Improved enzyme properties are constantly being sought to enhance the range of applications for enzymes. Biodiversity provides a wide variety of enzymes. Several researchers have concentrated on extremophiles as their primary source of superior enzymes, consequently neglecting temperate environments in their search for these enzymes. The relatively neglected fungal biodiversity of South Africa provided an opportunity to test the hypothesis that potentially important industrial enzymes with unusual properties could be isolated from mesophilic basidiomycetous fungi. Subsequent screening of Eastern Cape biodiversity for thermostable ligninolytic enzymes from basidiomycetes resulted in the isolation of a novel laccase enzyme from a basidiomycetous species. This fungus was identified as Peniophora sp. UD4 by phylogenetic analysis of rDNA ITS sequences. Initial studies indicated a superior optimum temperature of 70°C and thermostability, indicated by no loss in activity at 60°C over nine hours. Further characterization of the laccase revealed a broader than usual substrate range through its unusual ability to oxidatively couple DMAB and MBTH. The laccase also exhibited a broad pH oxidation range for ABTS (pH 2 – 6.8), and a relatively high affinity (K_m_ = 0.0123 mM) and catalytic efficiency (63 252 mM^(-1)^s^(-1)^) for ABTS as a substrate. The laccase activity from Peniophora sp. UD4 was shown to be comprised of three isozymes with a molecular weight of 62 kDa and pI’s of 6.33, 6.45 and 6.50. Investigation of the nutrient and physical factors affecting ligninolytic enzyme production and growth of Peniophora sp. UD4 indicated that the wild-type organism was unsuitable for large scale production of the thermostable laccase due to the low levels of laccase production. The thermostable laccase was applied to defouling of ultrafiltration membranes, bioremediation of industrial waste streams, biocatalysis, and biosensor technology as potential applications. Application of the Peniophora sp. UD4 laccase to defouling of membranes used for ultrafiltration of brown water showed large flux recoveries of 31, 21 and 21% after the first three defouling recycles respectively, compared to 3% for the control without immobilized enzyme. The novel laccase showed potential for the bioremediation of industrial waste streams, the most successful being that of bleach plant effluent, where a reduction of 66% of the phenolic load was achieved. Application of the novel laccase to biocatalytic oxidation of ferulic acid and (±)-α-pinene showed higher product yield as compared to oxidation of these compounds by Trametes versicolor laccase in mediated and non-mediated systems. The major products of (±)-α-pinene oxidation were identified as verbenol and trans-sorberol. The Peniophora sp. UD4 laccase was successfully applied to biosensor technology, which benchmarked significantly better than Trametes versicolor laccase for the detection of 4-chlorophenol. The biosensor developed with laccase from UD4 by covalent binding to a glassy carbon electrode exhibited the best combination of sensitivity and stability. This thesis shows that a laccase with superior properties was obtained from a mesophilic South African basidiomycete. The catalytic properties displayed by the novel laccase from Peniophora sp. UD4 all contribute to the increased industrial applicability of laccases, and may be the most industrially feasible enzyme of its class isolated to date.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jordaan, Justin
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Enzymes Enzymes -- Industrial applications Peniophora Laccase
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004029
- Description: Enzymes are becoming an effective tool in industrial processes, from crude applications such as bioremediation to fine processes such as chirally selective biocatalysis. The ligninolytic enzymes have recently received considerable attention for industrial application due to both their broad substrate range and their ability to degrade the most recalcitrant natural polymer, lignin. This group of enzymes was therefore identified as the target group for this study. Improved enzyme properties are constantly being sought to enhance the range of applications for enzymes. Biodiversity provides a wide variety of enzymes. Several researchers have concentrated on extremophiles as their primary source of superior enzymes, consequently neglecting temperate environments in their search for these enzymes. The relatively neglected fungal biodiversity of South Africa provided an opportunity to test the hypothesis that potentially important industrial enzymes with unusual properties could be isolated from mesophilic basidiomycetous fungi. Subsequent screening of Eastern Cape biodiversity for thermostable ligninolytic enzymes from basidiomycetes resulted in the isolation of a novel laccase enzyme from a basidiomycetous species. This fungus was identified as Peniophora sp. UD4 by phylogenetic analysis of rDNA ITS sequences. Initial studies indicated a superior optimum temperature of 70°C and thermostability, indicated by no loss in activity at 60°C over nine hours. Further characterization of the laccase revealed a broader than usual substrate range through its unusual ability to oxidatively couple DMAB and MBTH. The laccase also exhibited a broad pH oxidation range for ABTS (pH 2 – 6.8), and a relatively high affinity (K_m_ = 0.0123 mM) and catalytic efficiency (63 252 mM^(-1)^s^(-1)^) for ABTS as a substrate. The laccase activity from Peniophora sp. UD4 was shown to be comprised of three isozymes with a molecular weight of 62 kDa and pI’s of 6.33, 6.45 and 6.50. Investigation of the nutrient and physical factors affecting ligninolytic enzyme production and growth of Peniophora sp. UD4 indicated that the wild-type organism was unsuitable for large scale production of the thermostable laccase due to the low levels of laccase production. The thermostable laccase was applied to defouling of ultrafiltration membranes, bioremediation of industrial waste streams, biocatalysis, and biosensor technology as potential applications. Application of the Peniophora sp. UD4 laccase to defouling of membranes used for ultrafiltration of brown water showed large flux recoveries of 31, 21 and 21% after the first three defouling recycles respectively, compared to 3% for the control without immobilized enzyme. The novel laccase showed potential for the bioremediation of industrial waste streams, the most successful being that of bleach plant effluent, where a reduction of 66% of the phenolic load was achieved. Application of the novel laccase to biocatalytic oxidation of ferulic acid and (±)-α-pinene showed higher product yield as compared to oxidation of these compounds by Trametes versicolor laccase in mediated and non-mediated systems. The major products of (±)-α-pinene oxidation were identified as verbenol and trans-sorberol. The Peniophora sp. UD4 laccase was successfully applied to biosensor technology, which benchmarked significantly better than Trametes versicolor laccase for the detection of 4-chlorophenol. The biosensor developed with laccase from UD4 by covalent binding to a glassy carbon electrode exhibited the best combination of sensitivity and stability. This thesis shows that a laccase with superior properties was obtained from a mesophilic South African basidiomycete. The catalytic properties displayed by the novel laccase from Peniophora sp. UD4 all contribute to the increased industrial applicability of laccases, and may be the most industrially feasible enzyme of its class isolated to date.
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Re-inventing educational leadership for school and community transformation: learning from the Educational Leadership Management and Development programme of the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Moyo, George
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare. Educational Leadership Management and Development Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational change -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa School improvement programs -- South Africa School principals -- South Africa Community and school -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1719 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003602
- Description: This study explores educational leadership development and social change strategies pioneered by one programme, the Educational Leadership Management and Development (ELMD) programme of the University of Fort Hare. The programme seeks to model a way of doing social and educational transformation through educational leadership development. Conceptually, the model was meant to draw together a number of education stakeholders operating at various levels of the schooling system to undergo the same programme of leadership development. The programme participants, who included district education officials, schools principals, members of school management teams, educators and members of School Governing Bodies, were to enrol as teams. They would work on learning tasks that were both academic and practical in nature, with an emphasis on experiential learning that leads to the creation of district and community networks of partners, development teams or forums and communities of practice, as well as the production and implementation of district and school development plans. Informed by this conceptual position, the study was structured by two underlying questions. First, whether the ELMD was re-inventing educational leadership beyond the traditional focus on principalship towards one that is inclusive of other education stakeholders. Second, how leadership development as a vehicle for social and educational change can be carried out. The research process was guided by a multi-paradigm perspective which drew heavily on the interpretive and critical science orientations. This led to the crafting of research methods that looked for data that would assist in an understanding of what was happening in the programme, as well as what power dynamics were at play and with what consequences for innovation. The evidence emanating from the study suggests a number of possibilities for consideration by future leadership development programme designers. First, the ELMD programme delivery design shows what can be done to draw participants from various levels of the schooling system, district, school and community and teach them educational leadership together in a mode that mobilizes them for change. Second, how social distance separating different levels of the education hierarchy and status consciousness may disappear gradually as people are brought together to work on tasks of mutual concern. Third, after a year of engagement with ELMD ideas and approach, the participants in the programme appeared to have started a journey of selftransformation towards becoming qualitatively different people who saw themselves as teams capable of tackling education and social problems in their schools and communities. These participants had begun to forge working networks, but the extent to which these could be characterized as knowledge ecosystems and communities of practice remains a question to explore. Fourth, that the current higher education accreditation policies and practices do not accommodate innovative learning approaches of the kind that the ELMD is developing. In this regard, the ELMD experienced difficulties in coming up with an assessment policy and practices which meet the academic as well as the practical developmental concerns of the programme. Fifth, programme instrumentalities and mandates that are put in place do not, in themselves, bring about change. The actual change comes about through the actions of human leadership capable of navigating between structural enablers and constraints.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moyo, George
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare. Educational Leadership Management and Development Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational change -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa School improvement programs -- South Africa School principals -- South Africa Community and school -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1719 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003602
- Description: This study explores educational leadership development and social change strategies pioneered by one programme, the Educational Leadership Management and Development (ELMD) programme of the University of Fort Hare. The programme seeks to model a way of doing social and educational transformation through educational leadership development. Conceptually, the model was meant to draw together a number of education stakeholders operating at various levels of the schooling system to undergo the same programme of leadership development. The programme participants, who included district education officials, schools principals, members of school management teams, educators and members of School Governing Bodies, were to enrol as teams. They would work on learning tasks that were both academic and practical in nature, with an emphasis on experiential learning that leads to the creation of district and community networks of partners, development teams or forums and communities of practice, as well as the production and implementation of district and school development plans. Informed by this conceptual position, the study was structured by two underlying questions. First, whether the ELMD was re-inventing educational leadership beyond the traditional focus on principalship towards one that is inclusive of other education stakeholders. Second, how leadership development as a vehicle for social and educational change can be carried out. The research process was guided by a multi-paradigm perspective which drew heavily on the interpretive and critical science orientations. This led to the crafting of research methods that looked for data that would assist in an understanding of what was happening in the programme, as well as what power dynamics were at play and with what consequences for innovation. The evidence emanating from the study suggests a number of possibilities for consideration by future leadership development programme designers. First, the ELMD programme delivery design shows what can be done to draw participants from various levels of the schooling system, district, school and community and teach them educational leadership together in a mode that mobilizes them for change. Second, how social distance separating different levels of the education hierarchy and status consciousness may disappear gradually as people are brought together to work on tasks of mutual concern. Third, after a year of engagement with ELMD ideas and approach, the participants in the programme appeared to have started a journey of selftransformation towards becoming qualitatively different people who saw themselves as teams capable of tackling education and social problems in their schools and communities. These participants had begun to forge working networks, but the extent to which these could be characterized as knowledge ecosystems and communities of practice remains a question to explore. Fourth, that the current higher education accreditation policies and practices do not accommodate innovative learning approaches of the kind that the ELMD is developing. In this regard, the ELMD experienced difficulties in coming up with an assessment policy and practices which meet the academic as well as the practical developmental concerns of the programme. Fifth, programme instrumentalities and mandates that are put in place do not, in themselves, bring about change. The actual change comes about through the actions of human leadership capable of navigating between structural enablers and constraints.
- Full Text: