Ambivalence and paradox : the battered woman's interactions with the law and other helping resources
- Authors: Labe, Dana
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:699 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006424 , Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Description: This thesis explores how the battered woman attachment to her abusive partner impacts on her interactions with the legal system and non-legal resources. This qualitative research project is based on in-depth interviews conducted with seven abused women who procured interdicts in terms of the Prevention of Family Violence Act 133 of 1993 to restrain their husbands from assaulting them. The research reviews the nature of abuse suffered by the participants, their psychological attachments to their husbands, and their patterns of help-seeking in relation to the law and non-legal resources. Two main theoretical frameworks, psychoanalysis and feminism inform this study. The study found that the participants retained unrealistic hopes that their husbands would reform and become loving, caring partners, and that they treated their husbands with care and sympathy despite their husbands’ often brutal behaviour towards them. The findings suggest that the women’s behaviour towards their husbands was the product of two reality distorting psychological defences, splitting and the moral defence which they used to preserve their attachments to their abusive partners. These defences intersected with rigid patriarchal prescriptions of femininity which dictate that women should be stoically caring towards their husbands, and should hold relationships together no matter what the cost to themselves. The participants interactions with the legal system and with non-legal sources of help were structured by their reliance on splitting and the moral defence, and by the dictates of patriarchal ideology. Whilst it is undoubtedly true that at one level the participants sought help to get protection from abuse, the study shows that their help-seeking was motivated by their conflicting desires to punish and reform their husbands. The participants sought help in ways which enabled them to strike a compromise between expressing their anger at their husbands, whilst simultaneously preserving their psychological attachments to them. The study concludes that the women’s interactions with the law and with other helping resource reflect their attempts to preserve their paradoxical attachments to their husbands, and to stabilise their own fragile sense of self and gender identity
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Ambivalence and paradox : the battered woman's interactions with the law and other helping resources
- Authors: Labe, Dana
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:699 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006424 , Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Description: This thesis explores how the battered woman attachment to her abusive partner impacts on her interactions with the legal system and non-legal resources. This qualitative research project is based on in-depth interviews conducted with seven abused women who procured interdicts in terms of the Prevention of Family Violence Act 133 of 1993 to restrain their husbands from assaulting them. The research reviews the nature of abuse suffered by the participants, their psychological attachments to their husbands, and their patterns of help-seeking in relation to the law and non-legal resources. Two main theoretical frameworks, psychoanalysis and feminism inform this study. The study found that the participants retained unrealistic hopes that their husbands would reform and become loving, caring partners, and that they treated their husbands with care and sympathy despite their husbands’ often brutal behaviour towards them. The findings suggest that the women’s behaviour towards their husbands was the product of two reality distorting psychological defences, splitting and the moral defence which they used to preserve their attachments to their abusive partners. These defences intersected with rigid patriarchal prescriptions of femininity which dictate that women should be stoically caring towards their husbands, and should hold relationships together no matter what the cost to themselves. The participants interactions with the legal system and with non-legal sources of help were structured by their reliance on splitting and the moral defence, and by the dictates of patriarchal ideology. Whilst it is undoubtedly true that at one level the participants sought help to get protection from abuse, the study shows that their help-seeking was motivated by their conflicting desires to punish and reform their husbands. The participants sought help in ways which enabled them to strike a compromise between expressing their anger at their husbands, whilst simultaneously preserving their psychological attachments to them. The study concludes that the women’s interactions with the law and with other helping resource reflect their attempts to preserve their paradoxical attachments to their husbands, and to stabilise their own fragile sense of self and gender identity
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Ambivalence and paradox: the battered woman's interactions with the law and other helping resources
- Authors: Labe, Dana
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Family violence , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003127 , Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Family violence , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Description: This thesis explores how the battered woman attachment to her abusive partner impacts on her interactions with the legal system and non-legal resources. This qualitative research project is based on in-depth interviews conducted with seven abused women who procured interdicts in terms of the Prevention of Family Violence Act 133 of 1993 to restrain their husbands from assaulting them. The research reviews the nature of abuse suffered by the participants, their psychological attachments to their husbands, and their patterns of help-seeking in relation to the law and non-legal resources. Two main theoretical frameworks, psychoanalysis and feminism inform this study. The study found that the participants retained unrealistic hopes that their husbands would reform and become loving, caring partners, and that they treated their husbands with care and sympathy despite their husbands’ often brutal behaviour towards them. The findings suggest that the women’s behaviour towards their husbands was the product of two reality distorting psychological defences, splitting and the moral defence which they used to preserve their attachments to their abusive partners. These defences intersected with rigid patriarchal prescriptions of femininity which dictate that women should be stoically caring towards their husbands, and should hold relationships together no matter what the cost to themselves. The participants interactions with the legal system and with non-legal sources of help were structured by their reliance on splitting and the moral defence, and by the dictates of patriarchal ideology. Whilst it is undoubtedly true that at one level the participants sought help to get protection from abuse, the study shows that their help-seeking was motivated by their conflicting desires to punish and reform their husbands. The participants sought help in ways which enabled them to strike a compromise between expressing their anger at their husbands, whilst simultaneously preserving their psychological attachments to them. The study concludes that the women’s interactions with the law and with other helping resource reflect their attempts to preserve their paradoxical attachments to their husbands, and to stabilise their own fragile sense of self and gender identity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Labe, Dana
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Family violence , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003127 , Family violence -- Law and legislation , Abused women , Family violence , Wife abuse , Women -- Crimes against , Women -- Counseling of , Family violence -- Prevention
- Description: This thesis explores how the battered woman attachment to her abusive partner impacts on her interactions with the legal system and non-legal resources. This qualitative research project is based on in-depth interviews conducted with seven abused women who procured interdicts in terms of the Prevention of Family Violence Act 133 of 1993 to restrain their husbands from assaulting them. The research reviews the nature of abuse suffered by the participants, their psychological attachments to their husbands, and their patterns of help-seeking in relation to the law and non-legal resources. Two main theoretical frameworks, psychoanalysis and feminism inform this study. The study found that the participants retained unrealistic hopes that their husbands would reform and become loving, caring partners, and that they treated their husbands with care and sympathy despite their husbands’ often brutal behaviour towards them. The findings suggest that the women’s behaviour towards their husbands was the product of two reality distorting psychological defences, splitting and the moral defence which they used to preserve their attachments to their abusive partners. These defences intersected with rigid patriarchal prescriptions of femininity which dictate that women should be stoically caring towards their husbands, and should hold relationships together no matter what the cost to themselves. The participants interactions with the legal system and with non-legal sources of help were structured by their reliance on splitting and the moral defence, and by the dictates of patriarchal ideology. Whilst it is undoubtedly true that at one level the participants sought help to get protection from abuse, the study shows that their help-seeking was motivated by their conflicting desires to punish and reform their husbands. The participants sought help in ways which enabled them to strike a compromise between expressing their anger at their husbands, whilst simultaneously preserving their psychological attachments to them. The study concludes that the women’s interactions with the law and with other helping resource reflect their attempts to preserve their paradoxical attachments to their husbands, and to stabilise their own fragile sense of self and gender identity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An analysis of the contribution of four painters to the development of contemporary Zambian painting from 1950-1997
- Authors: Setti, Godfrey
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Painting -- Zambia , Art, Zambian -- 20th Century , Painting -- 20th century -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002218 , Painting -- Zambia , Art, Zambian -- 20th Century , Painting -- 20th century -- Zambia
- Description: This study presents an analysis of the contribution of four painters to the development of contemporary Zambian painting, from 1950 to 1997. This is preceded by a brief history of Zambian painting, including Bushmen rock painting and early Bantu art, which is followed by an account of the way western influence, introduced by the white man, started changing the style of painting in the country as it began to affect indigenous artists. In the work of artists who began painting from about 1900 to 1950, both western and traditional stylistic influences can be seen. While the painters whose work is analysed in this thesis had some knowledge of Zambian art before 1950, they were mainly influenced by western ideas of painting. From a list of more than ten painters ofthis period from 1950 to 1997, I selected: Gabriel Ellison, Cynthia Zukas, Hemy Tayali and Stephen Kappata because I know them personally and therefore had access to them and their work, which facilitated my analysis of their work and its contribution to Zambian painting. This analysis takes the form of four chapters, one for each artist, in which relevant biographical and educational background is outlined, followed by an analysis of examples of\vork. Finally, ways in which each painter, through exposure to the Zambian public and artistic community, contributed to further development in Zambian painting, are emphasised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Setti, Godfrey
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Painting -- Zambia , Art, Zambian -- 20th Century , Painting -- 20th century -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002218 , Painting -- Zambia , Art, Zambian -- 20th Century , Painting -- 20th century -- Zambia
- Description: This study presents an analysis of the contribution of four painters to the development of contemporary Zambian painting, from 1950 to 1997. This is preceded by a brief history of Zambian painting, including Bushmen rock painting and early Bantu art, which is followed by an account of the way western influence, introduced by the white man, started changing the style of painting in the country as it began to affect indigenous artists. In the work of artists who began painting from about 1900 to 1950, both western and traditional stylistic influences can be seen. While the painters whose work is analysed in this thesis had some knowledge of Zambian art before 1950, they were mainly influenced by western ideas of painting. From a list of more than ten painters ofthis period from 1950 to 1997, I selected: Gabriel Ellison, Cynthia Zukas, Hemy Tayali and Stephen Kappata because I know them personally and therefore had access to them and their work, which facilitated my analysis of their work and its contribution to Zambian painting. This analysis takes the form of four chapters, one for each artist, in which relevant biographical and educational background is outlined, followed by an analysis of examples of\vork. Finally, ways in which each painter, through exposure to the Zambian public and artistic community, contributed to further development in Zambian painting, are emphasised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An evaluation of the interventions utilized by manufacturing organizations in the Eastern Cape to ensure the optimal implementation and functioning of self-directed work teams
- Authors: Mey, Michelle Ruth
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Self-directed work teams , Teams in the workplace
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Human Resources Management)
- Identifier: vital:10870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61 , Self-directed work teams , Teams in the workplace
- Description: Organisations worldwide are attempting to increase individual job satisfaction, productivity and efficiency by implementing work teams. This research study evaluates the interventions considered necessary to optimally implement and maintain self-directed work teams (SDWTs). In order to complete this study it was necessary to address the characteristics associated with SDWTs, problems commonly experienced during implementation and functioning of SDWTs and the identification of the interventions used to promote the successful implementation and maintenance of SDWTs. These objectives were achieved by means of a comprehensive literature study. Subsequent to the literature study, a process model for the successful implementation and maintenance of a SDWT within a South African organization was developed. Thereafter, a questionnaire was developed based on the findings of the literature study and distributed to a randomly selected population. The objective of the questionnaire was to evaluate the interventions utilized during the implementation and maintenance of SDWTs. The results of the empirical study were statistically analysed and interpreted. Finally, conclusions and recommendations were made. The most important recommendations are as follows: Firstly, the trade union must be consulted and involved in the decision to implement SDWTs. Members of the team must be exposed to training interventions prior to the implementation of the SDWT. Thereafter, team members must undergo advanced training in interpersonal and problemsolving skills. Salary and reward structures within the organisation must be adapted to suit a teambased environment. Finally, the success of the SDWT will depend on the support provided by management. Management needs to exhibit total commitment to the change on a continuous basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Mey, Michelle Ruth
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Self-directed work teams , Teams in the workplace
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Human Resources Management)
- Identifier: vital:10870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61 , Self-directed work teams , Teams in the workplace
- Description: Organisations worldwide are attempting to increase individual job satisfaction, productivity and efficiency by implementing work teams. This research study evaluates the interventions considered necessary to optimally implement and maintain self-directed work teams (SDWTs). In order to complete this study it was necessary to address the characteristics associated with SDWTs, problems commonly experienced during implementation and functioning of SDWTs and the identification of the interventions used to promote the successful implementation and maintenance of SDWTs. These objectives were achieved by means of a comprehensive literature study. Subsequent to the literature study, a process model for the successful implementation and maintenance of a SDWT within a South African organization was developed. Thereafter, a questionnaire was developed based on the findings of the literature study and distributed to a randomly selected population. The objective of the questionnaire was to evaluate the interventions utilized during the implementation and maintenance of SDWTs. The results of the empirical study were statistically analysed and interpreted. Finally, conclusions and recommendations were made. The most important recommendations are as follows: Firstly, the trade union must be consulted and involved in the decision to implement SDWTs. Members of the team must be exposed to training interventions prior to the implementation of the SDWT. Thereafter, team members must undergo advanced training in interpersonal and problemsolving skills. Salary and reward structures within the organisation must be adapted to suit a teambased environment. Finally, the success of the SDWT will depend on the support provided by management. Management needs to exhibit total commitment to the change on a continuous basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An evaluation of the leadership effectiveness among production supervisors at selected pharmaceutical organisations in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Swanepoel, Deon Andre
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Leadership , Pharmacy management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62 , Leadership , Pharmacy management
- Description: Effective leadership is one of the most important factors that influence the performance of an organisation. Effective leadership together with supervision are similar in terms of their influence of others towards achieving the goals of the organisation. Therefore, effective leadership and supervision are principal activities through which organisational goals and objectives are achieved. The main objectives of this study are firstly to evaluate the leadership effectiveness of production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed. Secondly, to suggest recommendations to management to improve or eliminate shortcomings in the leadership effectiveness of the production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed. In this way, a contribution to the overall leadership effectiveness of the production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed is achieved. In order to achieve the said objectives, the following methodology was employed: Firstly, guidelines for effective leadership were identified by means of evaluating existing literature and theory. This was achieved by critically examining existing leadership theories and models. The major contributions, disadvantages, and advantages of each of these theories and models were evaluated which resulted in the list of guidelines for effective leadership. Secondly, the pharmaceutical industry and the theory surrounding supervision were critically examined and discussed. Attention was given to the pharmaceutical industry in South Africa, with special reference to Lennon and Intramed. The theory of supervision was examined with special focus on the skills, functions, power, and responsibilities of the supervisor. Thirdly, a postal questionnaire was used to gather the required empirical information. The response obtained from the questionnaire was critically evaluated against the guidelines for effective leadership and effective supervision, and the results were graphically represented in a company leadership profile. Lennon and Intramed were evaluated separately, and the major differences and similarities between the two organisations were critically evaluated. Lastly, the main findings and recommendations were formulated in order to remedy the shortcomings that were identified. The following recommendations may lead to more effective leadership among production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed: It is necessary that this study be made available to the supervisors at Lennon and Intramed, as it will give them insight into the theory of leadership and what effective leadership is about. It will furthermore give the supervisors an insight into the way that their subordinates view their leadership behaviour and effectiveness. It is further recommended that the information from this study be made available through sensitisation sessions where the necessary information is presented to a group or individual supervisors. Leadership training and development is required as it can make a meaningful contribution to equip supervisors with the necessary leadership skills to practise effective leadership. This leadership training and development can be done by means of short courses presented by a formal training institution, or by a suitably qualified in-house presenter. The last recommendation to leadership effectiveness involves the implementation of a performance management system and incentive scheme to further motivate and drive the supervisor’s leadership behaviour towards effective leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Swanepoel, Deon Andre
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Leadership , Pharmacy management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62 , Leadership , Pharmacy management
- Description: Effective leadership is one of the most important factors that influence the performance of an organisation. Effective leadership together with supervision are similar in terms of their influence of others towards achieving the goals of the organisation. Therefore, effective leadership and supervision are principal activities through which organisational goals and objectives are achieved. The main objectives of this study are firstly to evaluate the leadership effectiveness of production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed. Secondly, to suggest recommendations to management to improve or eliminate shortcomings in the leadership effectiveness of the production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed. In this way, a contribution to the overall leadership effectiveness of the production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed is achieved. In order to achieve the said objectives, the following methodology was employed: Firstly, guidelines for effective leadership were identified by means of evaluating existing literature and theory. This was achieved by critically examining existing leadership theories and models. The major contributions, disadvantages, and advantages of each of these theories and models were evaluated which resulted in the list of guidelines for effective leadership. Secondly, the pharmaceutical industry and the theory surrounding supervision were critically examined and discussed. Attention was given to the pharmaceutical industry in South Africa, with special reference to Lennon and Intramed. The theory of supervision was examined with special focus on the skills, functions, power, and responsibilities of the supervisor. Thirdly, a postal questionnaire was used to gather the required empirical information. The response obtained from the questionnaire was critically evaluated against the guidelines for effective leadership and effective supervision, and the results were graphically represented in a company leadership profile. Lennon and Intramed were evaluated separately, and the major differences and similarities between the two organisations were critically evaluated. Lastly, the main findings and recommendations were formulated in order to remedy the shortcomings that were identified. The following recommendations may lead to more effective leadership among production supervisors at Lennon and Intramed: It is necessary that this study be made available to the supervisors at Lennon and Intramed, as it will give them insight into the theory of leadership and what effective leadership is about. It will furthermore give the supervisors an insight into the way that their subordinates view their leadership behaviour and effectiveness. It is further recommended that the information from this study be made available through sensitisation sessions where the necessary information is presented to a group or individual supervisors. Leadership training and development is required as it can make a meaningful contribution to equip supervisors with the necessary leadership skills to practise effective leadership. This leadership training and development can be done by means of short courses presented by a formal training institution, or by a suitably qualified in-house presenter. The last recommendation to leadership effectiveness involves the implementation of a performance management system and incentive scheme to further motivate and drive the supervisor’s leadership behaviour towards effective leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An evaluation to assist a metropolitan broker division to improve the level of service quality towards contracted brokers
- Authors: Calitz, Andries P
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Customer services -- Quality control , Insurance companies -- South Africa , Customer relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006206 , Customer services -- Quality control , Insurance companies -- South Africa , Customer relations
- Description: In this study the service quality from a Metropolitan Broker Division towards contracted brokers in the southern region was investigated. From the industry and competitor analyses it can be concluded that service quality has become an important factor in the financial service industry, especially in the insurance industry. It is therefore important to look at options to outperform competitors. The literature survey was aimed at improving the level of quality service to contracted brokers. Based on the information obtained through the literature study and survey, a guideline to assist a Metropolitan Broker Division to improve the level of service quality was developed. The purpose of the empirical study was to determine if the service that contracted brokers receive from the Metropolitan Broker Division is of an acceptable level. The answers from respondents were analysed and compared with findings from the literature study. Recommendations were formulated for improving the level of service quality towards contracted brokers. The empirical study results were satisfactory and informative. The positive responses identified can be utilised to strengthen the marketing strategies by Metropolitan Broker Division while attention should be given to the negative responses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Calitz, Andries P
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Customer services -- Quality control , Insurance companies -- South Africa , Customer relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006206 , Customer services -- Quality control , Insurance companies -- South Africa , Customer relations
- Description: In this study the service quality from a Metropolitan Broker Division towards contracted brokers in the southern region was investigated. From the industry and competitor analyses it can be concluded that service quality has become an important factor in the financial service industry, especially in the insurance industry. It is therefore important to look at options to outperform competitors. The literature survey was aimed at improving the level of quality service to contracted brokers. Based on the information obtained through the literature study and survey, a guideline to assist a Metropolitan Broker Division to improve the level of service quality was developed. The purpose of the empirical study was to determine if the service that contracted brokers receive from the Metropolitan Broker Division is of an acceptable level. The answers from respondents were analysed and compared with findings from the literature study. Recommendations were formulated for improving the level of service quality towards contracted brokers. The empirical study results were satisfactory and informative. The positive responses identified can be utilised to strengthen the marketing strategies by Metropolitan Broker Division while attention should be given to the negative responses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An evaluative case study of curriculum development and implementation in PELUM College
- Authors: Mukute, Mutizwa
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Curriculum planning -- PELUM College (Zimbabwe) Curriculum planning -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007423
- Description: This evaluative study examined the development and implementation of a multi-disciplinary agroecology and community development curriculum by PELUM College Zimbabwe, The college, which emerged to implement the curriculum, comprises of non-govemmental organisations, university departments and government agencies coordinated by PELUM Association, PELUM supports participalory ecological land-use management and the curriculum was aimed at community development workers, The curriculum's four pillars were: community development facilitation; natural resources management; sustainable crop and animal production; and organisational management. The study explored the conceptual integrity of the socially-critical oriented curriculum, focusing on the written curriculum; resource material development; participation; praxis; assessment and accreditation; as well as project planning and implementation by trainees, The methodology was essentially interpretive, with a participatory and praxiological orientation inspired by the socially critical framework of the curriculum, I gathered data over two years, analysing documents covering a period of nine years, and involving about 75 participants in the research through questionnaires, in-depth semi-slructured interviews and focus group discussions, My key findings were that the curriculum and the participatory process in which it had been developed and implemented had potential to address pedagogical and developmental shortcomings of more conventional curricula, The major weaknesses in the curriculum and its development arose from the under-utilisation of the curriculum framework that should have guided participation and decision-making, I examined tensions in the curriculum implementation, finding them similar to those experienced in other environmental education programmes in the reg ion, In keeping with the praxiological and formative orientation to the evaluation, I conclude with recommendations specific to the case under study,
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Mukute, Mutizwa
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Curriculum planning -- PELUM College (Zimbabwe) Curriculum planning -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007423
- Description: This evaluative study examined the development and implementation of a multi-disciplinary agroecology and community development curriculum by PELUM College Zimbabwe, The college, which emerged to implement the curriculum, comprises of non-govemmental organisations, university departments and government agencies coordinated by PELUM Association, PELUM supports participalory ecological land-use management and the curriculum was aimed at community development workers, The curriculum's four pillars were: community development facilitation; natural resources management; sustainable crop and animal production; and organisational management. The study explored the conceptual integrity of the socially-critical oriented curriculum, focusing on the written curriculum; resource material development; participation; praxis; assessment and accreditation; as well as project planning and implementation by trainees, The methodology was essentially interpretive, with a participatory and praxiological orientation inspired by the socially critical framework of the curriculum, I gathered data over two years, analysing documents covering a period of nine years, and involving about 75 participants in the research through questionnaires, in-depth semi-slructured interviews and focus group discussions, My key findings were that the curriculum and the participatory process in which it had been developed and implemented had potential to address pedagogical and developmental shortcomings of more conventional curricula, The major weaknesses in the curriculum and its development arose from the under-utilisation of the curriculum framework that should have guided participation and decision-making, I examined tensions in the curriculum implementation, finding them similar to those experienced in other environmental education programmes in the reg ion, In keeping with the praxiological and formative orientation to the evaluation, I conclude with recommendations specific to the case under study,
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An examination of the development of Christian worship in the Southern Congo United Methodist Church with a view to promoting a relevant and indigenous form of worship
- Authors: Nkonge, Jean-Marie
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Christianity Christianity -- Congo United Methodist Church -- Congo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007445
- Description: The scope of this thesis is the investigation of the nature and purpose of Christian worship with specific reference to its development in the Southern Congo United Methodist Church. The study combines three main sources of information - namely, the study of key theological concepts (chapter 3), the Holy Bible (chapter 4), and the investigation by questionnaires (chapter 6) - in order to address the issue of improving the worship and Christian life style for the contemporary Christian church within the Congolese context. Christian worship has been defined as a twofold event involving God's initiative in and through Jesus Christ, and men and women's response towards God's saving acts through the same Mediator, Jesus Christ. Seeing that the unchangeable Gospel relates to each culture, it is argued in this thesis that Congolese cultural values (local clergy, local languages, art forms, and other cultural elements) could be an integral part of worship. This long and slow process of incarnating the Christian message into the Congolese context could result in finding original and meaningful expressions of the Christian faith in the African context. Insights are drawn from the research to offer theological and pragmatic guidelines. In fact, it is suggested that the integration of Congolese cultural elements should be monitored by a Theological Commission at the congregational level, the district level, and the Annual Conference level. Furthermore, the last section of the last chapter provides helpful suggestions in dealing with practical issues with regard to the overall management of the Southern Congo United Methodist Church.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Nkonge, Jean-Marie
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Christianity Christianity -- Congo United Methodist Church -- Congo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007445
- Description: The scope of this thesis is the investigation of the nature and purpose of Christian worship with specific reference to its development in the Southern Congo United Methodist Church. The study combines three main sources of information - namely, the study of key theological concepts (chapter 3), the Holy Bible (chapter 4), and the investigation by questionnaires (chapter 6) - in order to address the issue of improving the worship and Christian life style for the contemporary Christian church within the Congolese context. Christian worship has been defined as a twofold event involving God's initiative in and through Jesus Christ, and men and women's response towards God's saving acts through the same Mediator, Jesus Christ. Seeing that the unchangeable Gospel relates to each culture, it is argued in this thesis that Congolese cultural values (local clergy, local languages, art forms, and other cultural elements) could be an integral part of worship. This long and slow process of incarnating the Christian message into the Congolese context could result in finding original and meaningful expressions of the Christian faith in the African context. Insights are drawn from the research to offer theological and pragmatic guidelines. In fact, it is suggested that the integration of Congolese cultural elements should be monitored by a Theological Commission at the congregational level, the district level, and the Annual Conference level. Furthermore, the last section of the last chapter provides helpful suggestions in dealing with practical issues with regard to the overall management of the Southern Congo United Methodist Church.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An exploratory study of the experiences of black teenage mothers
- Authors: Mpetshwa, Nomonde
- Date: 2001 , 2012-06-20
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Black teenage mothers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006470 , Teenage pregnancy , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Black teenage mothers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: An exploratory descriptive design was used to explore the experiences of a sample of black teenage mothers of Libode, Ngqeleni and Port St Johns. A St Barnabas Hospital birth record register was used to select seven Xhosa speaking black teenage mothers, with children under a year old who have kept their children and are staying with their extended families. Qualitative interview was used to collect data from the abovementioned respondents. The data one want to use may not feasibly be available in any other form, so that asking people for their accounts, talking and listening to them, may be the only way to get at what you are interested in (Mason 1998:39). Qualitative interview was therefore used to collect data from the abovementioned respondents. Qualitative interview according to Mason (1998:38) involve one to one interaction as in this study, or a larger group, and it carries more advantages in data collection compared to other research tools. Some interesting information, which drew the researcher's attention, was gathered. Information such as the reaction by family members, community and its structures, and peers including teenage fathers, made the research more challenging. The anger showed by brothers of one of respondents raised the researcher's curiosity. Another interesting piece of information that was gathered was the negative reaction by the church. The researcher had no idea that the church can negatively involve itself in community affairs, but one of the respondents reported to have been encouraged by one of the church members to go on with her studies despite her pregnancy. The same applied to some schools, where pregnant teenagers were not allowed to continue schooling, while in other schools the same situation was allowed. The major findings were that, respondents have forfeited some of their favorite hobbies such as extra mural school activities, teenage activities and their lives have been negatively affected by their teenage motherhood in areas such as education, family relations, peer relations including their boyfriends and community. Again lack of support by people close to these young mothers including different professionals has also been identified. It has also transpired during this study that, teenagers can indeed be good mothers, but socioeconomic stress and lack of social support often prevent them from giving their babies a reasonable start in life. Amongst the recommendations made undertaking a bigger study has been suggested
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Mpetshwa, Nomonde
- Date: 2001 , 2012-06-20
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Black teenage mothers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006470 , Teenage pregnancy , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Black teenage mothers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: An exploratory descriptive design was used to explore the experiences of a sample of black teenage mothers of Libode, Ngqeleni and Port St Johns. A St Barnabas Hospital birth record register was used to select seven Xhosa speaking black teenage mothers, with children under a year old who have kept their children and are staying with their extended families. Qualitative interview was used to collect data from the abovementioned respondents. The data one want to use may not feasibly be available in any other form, so that asking people for their accounts, talking and listening to them, may be the only way to get at what you are interested in (Mason 1998:39). Qualitative interview was therefore used to collect data from the abovementioned respondents. Qualitative interview according to Mason (1998:38) involve one to one interaction as in this study, or a larger group, and it carries more advantages in data collection compared to other research tools. Some interesting information, which drew the researcher's attention, was gathered. Information such as the reaction by family members, community and its structures, and peers including teenage fathers, made the research more challenging. The anger showed by brothers of one of respondents raised the researcher's curiosity. Another interesting piece of information that was gathered was the negative reaction by the church. The researcher had no idea that the church can negatively involve itself in community affairs, but one of the respondents reported to have been encouraged by one of the church members to go on with her studies despite her pregnancy. The same applied to some schools, where pregnant teenagers were not allowed to continue schooling, while in other schools the same situation was allowed. The major findings were that, respondents have forfeited some of their favorite hobbies such as extra mural school activities, teenage activities and their lives have been negatively affected by their teenage motherhood in areas such as education, family relations, peer relations including their boyfriends and community. Again lack of support by people close to these young mothers including different professionals has also been identified. It has also transpired during this study that, teenagers can indeed be good mothers, but socioeconomic stress and lack of social support often prevent them from giving their babies a reasonable start in life. Amongst the recommendations made undertaking a bigger study has been suggested
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An inquiry into the incorporation of a multicultural approach in contemporary textbooks in South Africa
- Authors: Sharma, Anjali
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Multicultural education -- South Africa Multicultural education -- Curricula Textbooks -- South Africa -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1579 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003461
- Description: During the past few decades a substantial body of research has emerged in western as well as the developing nations studying the racial bias in children's texts. However, it is only recently in South Africa, with the ascendance of the ANC government, that interest has been focused on eliminating apartheid values and on promoting multicultural tenets in the school curriculum. It is undeniable that the concept of multiculturalism has been severely stigmatised in the South African educational context. Anxieties have been expressed about embracing the discourse of multicultural education within the educational system based on fears that, like the previous educational system, it too will perpetuate group differences. Nevertheless, in recent years, a clear consensus view has emerged that the implementation of multicultural education is imperative if the goal of a rainbow South Africa is to be realised. Against this background, the present study attempts to study the incorporation of a multicultural approach into contemporary textbooks. To realise this aim I selected a sample of four textbooks, one from each of the major disciplines (science, English, geography and history), and SUbjected the texts and pictures from each to content analysis. The findings of this study suggest that a multicultural approach shall at least for the foreseeable future remain a central feature of learning materials produced for the new South African curricula. The findings indicate that multicultural aspects predominate in the texts as compared to other ideologies. This applies to both text content and illustrations. Contrary to the researcher's initial expectation, however, the texts also reveal a strong tendency towards Eurocentric and patriarchal approaches. This research does not conform to traditional, 'scientific' criteria of validity and reliability; it seeks only to investigate textbook material in more depth and thereby contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the extent to which the texts subscribe to a multicultural approach. Such understanding may help both educationalists and authors in their evaluation of existing textbook material, and in the production of new texts which reflect the reality of South Africa as a multicultural society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Sharma, Anjali
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Multicultural education -- South Africa Multicultural education -- Curricula Textbooks -- South Africa -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1579 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003461
- Description: During the past few decades a substantial body of research has emerged in western as well as the developing nations studying the racial bias in children's texts. However, it is only recently in South Africa, with the ascendance of the ANC government, that interest has been focused on eliminating apartheid values and on promoting multicultural tenets in the school curriculum. It is undeniable that the concept of multiculturalism has been severely stigmatised in the South African educational context. Anxieties have been expressed about embracing the discourse of multicultural education within the educational system based on fears that, like the previous educational system, it too will perpetuate group differences. Nevertheless, in recent years, a clear consensus view has emerged that the implementation of multicultural education is imperative if the goal of a rainbow South Africa is to be realised. Against this background, the present study attempts to study the incorporation of a multicultural approach into contemporary textbooks. To realise this aim I selected a sample of four textbooks, one from each of the major disciplines (science, English, geography and history), and SUbjected the texts and pictures from each to content analysis. The findings of this study suggest that a multicultural approach shall at least for the foreseeable future remain a central feature of learning materials produced for the new South African curricula. The findings indicate that multicultural aspects predominate in the texts as compared to other ideologies. This applies to both text content and illustrations. Contrary to the researcher's initial expectation, however, the texts also reveal a strong tendency towards Eurocentric and patriarchal approaches. This research does not conform to traditional, 'scientific' criteria of validity and reliability; it seeks only to investigate textbook material in more depth and thereby contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the extent to which the texts subscribe to a multicultural approach. Such understanding may help both educationalists and authors in their evaluation of existing textbook material, and in the production of new texts which reflect the reality of South Africa as a multicultural society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An inventory of medicinal plants traded on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Botha, Jenny, Witkowski, Ed T F, Shackleton, Charlie M
- Authors: Botha, Jenny , Witkowski, Ed T F , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/181662 , vital:43756 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.4102/koedoe.v44i2.172"
- Description: The World Health Organisation estimates that traditional medicine still plays a vital role in the lives of 70-80 of the populations of developing countries. Approximately 20 000 tons of medicinal plants are estimated to be traded in South Africa annually, resulting in considerable pressure on the wild populations from which these plants are harvested. In 1997, a study was initiated to assess the extent of trade in medicinal plants on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, and to determine local perceptions of the availability and values of these plants. This paper presents an inventory of the species traded, including vendors' and traders' perceptions of current availability of species and consumer demand, as well as price/kg. In Mpumalanga, 176 species were identified (71 of the vernacular names encountered in the market place), representing 69 families. In Northern Province, 70 different species were identified (84 of the vernacular names recorded in the markets), representing 40 families. Perceptions of availability of a species varied considerably, often within the same markets. Perceptions of demand tended to be more consistent, although these also sometimes varied. Although monitoring markets is an efficient means of assessing the conservation status of medicinal plants, it is important to select appropriate parameters. Markets often differ from one another, and an understanding of local conditions is crucial. For example, in the medicinal markets on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, price/kg and market perceptions of availability of species were highly variable and would thus not provide a consistent monitoring parameter. Perceptions of demand provide an indication of current and potential pressure on a species, particularly when combined with the monitoring of species traded, and the introduction of substitutes in the market place. The size of plant parts traded could also provide useful monitoring data. It is important to identify the plants utilised locally first hand where possible, due to the variation of vernacular names from one area to another.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Botha, Jenny , Witkowski, Ed T F , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/181662 , vital:43756 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.4102/koedoe.v44i2.172"
- Description: The World Health Organisation estimates that traditional medicine still plays a vital role in the lives of 70-80 of the populations of developing countries. Approximately 20 000 tons of medicinal plants are estimated to be traded in South Africa annually, resulting in considerable pressure on the wild populations from which these plants are harvested. In 1997, a study was initiated to assess the extent of trade in medicinal plants on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, and to determine local perceptions of the availability and values of these plants. This paper presents an inventory of the species traded, including vendors' and traders' perceptions of current availability of species and consumer demand, as well as price/kg. In Mpumalanga, 176 species were identified (71 of the vernacular names encountered in the market place), representing 69 families. In Northern Province, 70 different species were identified (84 of the vernacular names recorded in the markets), representing 40 families. Perceptions of availability of a species varied considerably, often within the same markets. Perceptions of demand tended to be more consistent, although these also sometimes varied. Although monitoring markets is an efficient means of assessing the conservation status of medicinal plants, it is important to select appropriate parameters. Markets often differ from one another, and an understanding of local conditions is crucial. For example, in the medicinal markets on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, price/kg and market perceptions of availability of species were highly variable and would thus not provide a consistent monitoring parameter. Perceptions of demand provide an indication of current and potential pressure on a species, particularly when combined with the monitoring of species traded, and the introduction of substitutes in the market place. The size of plant parts traded could also provide useful monitoring data. It is important to identify the plants utilised locally first hand where possible, due to the variation of vernacular names from one area to another.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation into the effectiveness of technology change management in a selected manufacturing organisation in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Johan
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm) , Industrial relations -- Technological innovations , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10916 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64 , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm) , Industrial relations -- Technological innovations , Organizational change -- Management
- Description: This research investigated technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone in the Port Elizabeth metropole. From a manufacturing organisation’s point of view it is clear that technology change is a constant force that determines competitiveness. The thesis outlines the specific requirements needed for utilising the concept of technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone. The literature survey was aimed at placing the concept of technology change management and the correct organisational structure and organisational focus points in perspective to ensure successful technology change and its implementation at Bridgestone/Firestone. The purpose of the empirical study was to test managements perseptions of technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone and to contribute useful information to the organisation. From the findings improvements and recommendations were suggested as guidelines for any tyre manufacturer to follow to improve technology change management. The empirical study results show that there is room for improvement. The responses to statements outlined areas that need improvement and those that do not according to the views of Bridgestone/Firestone’s management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Johan
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm) , Industrial relations -- Technological innovations , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10916 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64 , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm) , Industrial relations -- Technological innovations , Organizational change -- Management
- Description: This research investigated technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone in the Port Elizabeth metropole. From a manufacturing organisation’s point of view it is clear that technology change is a constant force that determines competitiveness. The thesis outlines the specific requirements needed for utilising the concept of technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone. The literature survey was aimed at placing the concept of technology change management and the correct organisational structure and organisational focus points in perspective to ensure successful technology change and its implementation at Bridgestone/Firestone. The purpose of the empirical study was to test managements perseptions of technology change management at Bridgestone/Firestone and to contribute useful information to the organisation. From the findings improvements and recommendations were suggested as guidelines for any tyre manufacturer to follow to improve technology change management. The empirical study results show that there is room for improvement. The responses to statements outlined areas that need improvement and those that do not according to the views of Bridgestone/Firestone’s management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation into the possible neuroprotective role of melatonin in copper-loading
- Authors: Parmar, Paresh H
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Melatonin , Copper , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003261
- Description: Copper is an extremely toxic metal in biological systems and thus, its availability to the system, must be effectively and efficiently controlled. Copper is vital for life, as it is essential for critical enzymes in biological systems. It is free copper in the biological systems that is toxic, as free copper induces free radical generation, which disrupts lipid membranes, interacts with DNA causing mutations, and eventually leads to cell death. Wilson’s disease is a inherited copper disease, which results in hepatolenticular disease. Copper is unable to be excreted, and thus accumulates, eventually spilling over into the bloodstream from the liver, and “poisons” the patient. The Wilson’s disease patient leads a short life, due to neurological and hepatological problems. There is no cure for Wilson’s disease, only chelation therapy using potent chelators such as penicillamine and EDTA. Zinc, in high doses, can be used to compete with copper absorption. This has proved to be the only successful therapy at present. This study investigates the possible use of melatonin as a copper binder/chelator. Melatonin has been shown to interact with copper in vitro. By binding/chelating to copper, melatonin may inhibit copper-induced free radical generation, and thus prevent copper from interacting with DNA to cause mutations and act as a cytotoxin. In vivo studies on copper (2mg/kg) administered for 2-weeks and 6-weeks were carried out on Wistar rats. The potential of melatonin (12mg/kg) to prevent copper-induced cellular damage was investigated. The results indicate that melatonin does not protect the lipid membranes from copper-induced lipid peroxidation. In vitro investigations using 1mM, 5mM and 10mM copper and 5mM melatonin, show that melatonin prevents copper-induced lipid peroxidation at a copper concentration of 1mM (p<0.001). The 5mM and 10mM copper induces less lipid peroxidation, compared to the 1mM copper. It has been reported that metal ions, antioxidants and chelating agents can influence peroxide decomposition during the assay. Melatonin (5mM) administration does not significantly prevent copper-induced lipid peroxidation at 5mM and 10mM copper. It is possible that due to melatonin’s relatively low concentration, it is unable to inhibit lipid peroxidation induced by the copper. The chemical nature of the interaction between melatonin and copper was also investigated, using NMR, IR and electrochemistry techniques. The NMR and IR techniques show that melatonin coordinates with Cu²⁺ and not Cu¹⁺, at the carbonyl group of melatonin. The electrochemistry experiments using cyclic voltammetry and adsorptive stripping voltammetry, show that melatonin forms a strong bond with Cu¹⁺. Cu²⁺ prefers binding to oxygen, and that is clearly seen in the NMR and IR. Cu¹⁺ prefers binding to nitrogen and then oxygen, and this is seen in the electrochemistry, as Cu¹⁺ is forced to bind through one of the nitrogens on the melatonin. Previously, it has been shown that melatonin binds/chelates with Cu²⁺. Histochemical investigations show that copper administration for 2-weeks and 6-weeks, causes extensive mitochondrial damage in liver and kidney’s proximal convoluted tubule epithelium cells. Melatonin (12mg/kg) co-administration with copper for 2-weeks and 6-weeks did not significantly protect the mitochondria from copper-induced damage. Copper-specific stains (rhodanine, silver sulphide and rubeanic acid) were used to stain liver, brain and kidney tissue samples. Rhodanine and silver sulphide were equally sensitive in staining copper in the 2-week samples, but not at all in the 6-week samples. This could not be explained. Rubeanic acid was ineffective in all samples tested. Thus, it appears that specific copper stains cannot be used in making a definitive diagnosis in cases of copper overload, and that specific copper stains do not always correlate with a high concentration of copper present in tissues. Pineal organ culture was used to determine the effect of copper administration on pineal indole synthesis. Exogenous (³H) tryptophan was administered to the pineal organ cultures, and the level of (³H) pineal indoles synthesised, were measured. Pineals from 2-week and 6-week copper/melatonin treated animals exhibited paradoxical 5- methoxytryptophol (ML) levels, as compared to the 2-week and 6-week copper treated animals. The 2-week copper/melatonin administered animals, showed a decrease in the ML level (p<0.01), and the copper/melatonin administered for 6-weeks, showed an increase in the ML levels (p<0.01). This indicates that melatonin interacts with the HIOMT enzyme. Pineals from 6-week copper/melatonin treated animals, as compared to the 6-week copper treated animals, showed an increase in N-acetylserotonin levels. This indicates that melatonin prevents the inhibition of the NAT enzyme. The final experiment was to determine in vitro, the effect of Cu²⁺ and Cu¹⁺ administration, on mitochondrial electron transport chain. Rat liver homogenate was incubated with and solutions of Cu²⁺ (10mM) and Cu¹⁺ (10mM) and melatonin (10mM). Cu²⁺ administration caused an inhibition of the electron transport at t=0 and t=60, whereas Cu¹⁺ administration at t=0 caused an inhibition of electron transport, but at t=60, Cu¹⁺ administration stimulated electron transport. Melatonin administered with Cu²⁺, resulted in an inhibition of the electron transport chain at t=0 and t=60. The findings of this study indicate that melatonin might have a potentially beneficial effect in copper overloading, by binding/chelating copper.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Parmar, Paresh H
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Melatonin , Copper , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003261
- Description: Copper is an extremely toxic metal in biological systems and thus, its availability to the system, must be effectively and efficiently controlled. Copper is vital for life, as it is essential for critical enzymes in biological systems. It is free copper in the biological systems that is toxic, as free copper induces free radical generation, which disrupts lipid membranes, interacts with DNA causing mutations, and eventually leads to cell death. Wilson’s disease is a inherited copper disease, which results in hepatolenticular disease. Copper is unable to be excreted, and thus accumulates, eventually spilling over into the bloodstream from the liver, and “poisons” the patient. The Wilson’s disease patient leads a short life, due to neurological and hepatological problems. There is no cure for Wilson’s disease, only chelation therapy using potent chelators such as penicillamine and EDTA. Zinc, in high doses, can be used to compete with copper absorption. This has proved to be the only successful therapy at present. This study investigates the possible use of melatonin as a copper binder/chelator. Melatonin has been shown to interact with copper in vitro. By binding/chelating to copper, melatonin may inhibit copper-induced free radical generation, and thus prevent copper from interacting with DNA to cause mutations and act as a cytotoxin. In vivo studies on copper (2mg/kg) administered for 2-weeks and 6-weeks were carried out on Wistar rats. The potential of melatonin (12mg/kg) to prevent copper-induced cellular damage was investigated. The results indicate that melatonin does not protect the lipid membranes from copper-induced lipid peroxidation. In vitro investigations using 1mM, 5mM and 10mM copper and 5mM melatonin, show that melatonin prevents copper-induced lipid peroxidation at a copper concentration of 1mM (p<0.001). The 5mM and 10mM copper induces less lipid peroxidation, compared to the 1mM copper. It has been reported that metal ions, antioxidants and chelating agents can influence peroxide decomposition during the assay. Melatonin (5mM) administration does not significantly prevent copper-induced lipid peroxidation at 5mM and 10mM copper. It is possible that due to melatonin’s relatively low concentration, it is unable to inhibit lipid peroxidation induced by the copper. The chemical nature of the interaction between melatonin and copper was also investigated, using NMR, IR and electrochemistry techniques. The NMR and IR techniques show that melatonin coordinates with Cu²⁺ and not Cu¹⁺, at the carbonyl group of melatonin. The electrochemistry experiments using cyclic voltammetry and adsorptive stripping voltammetry, show that melatonin forms a strong bond with Cu¹⁺. Cu²⁺ prefers binding to oxygen, and that is clearly seen in the NMR and IR. Cu¹⁺ prefers binding to nitrogen and then oxygen, and this is seen in the electrochemistry, as Cu¹⁺ is forced to bind through one of the nitrogens on the melatonin. Previously, it has been shown that melatonin binds/chelates with Cu²⁺. Histochemical investigations show that copper administration for 2-weeks and 6-weeks, causes extensive mitochondrial damage in liver and kidney’s proximal convoluted tubule epithelium cells. Melatonin (12mg/kg) co-administration with copper for 2-weeks and 6-weeks did not significantly protect the mitochondria from copper-induced damage. Copper-specific stains (rhodanine, silver sulphide and rubeanic acid) were used to stain liver, brain and kidney tissue samples. Rhodanine and silver sulphide were equally sensitive in staining copper in the 2-week samples, but not at all in the 6-week samples. This could not be explained. Rubeanic acid was ineffective in all samples tested. Thus, it appears that specific copper stains cannot be used in making a definitive diagnosis in cases of copper overload, and that specific copper stains do not always correlate with a high concentration of copper present in tissues. Pineal organ culture was used to determine the effect of copper administration on pineal indole synthesis. Exogenous (³H) tryptophan was administered to the pineal organ cultures, and the level of (³H) pineal indoles synthesised, were measured. Pineals from 2-week and 6-week copper/melatonin treated animals exhibited paradoxical 5- methoxytryptophol (ML) levels, as compared to the 2-week and 6-week copper treated animals. The 2-week copper/melatonin administered animals, showed a decrease in the ML level (p<0.01), and the copper/melatonin administered for 6-weeks, showed an increase in the ML levels (p<0.01). This indicates that melatonin interacts with the HIOMT enzyme. Pineals from 6-week copper/melatonin treated animals, as compared to the 6-week copper treated animals, showed an increase in N-acetylserotonin levels. This indicates that melatonin prevents the inhibition of the NAT enzyme. The final experiment was to determine in vitro, the effect of Cu²⁺ and Cu¹⁺ administration, on mitochondrial electron transport chain. Rat liver homogenate was incubated with and solutions of Cu²⁺ (10mM) and Cu¹⁺ (10mM) and melatonin (10mM). Cu²⁺ administration caused an inhibition of the electron transport at t=0 and t=60, whereas Cu¹⁺ administration at t=0 caused an inhibition of electron transport, but at t=60, Cu¹⁺ administration stimulated electron transport. Melatonin administered with Cu²⁺, resulted in an inhibition of the electron transport chain at t=0 and t=60. The findings of this study indicate that melatonin might have a potentially beneficial effect in copper overloading, by binding/chelating copper.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation into the role of leadership in strategic planning
- Authors: Van Wyk, Luhan George
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Leadership , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65 , Leadership , Strategic planning
- Description: Strategic planning will reach its full potential once leadership operates effectively within the South African organisation. In this research, theoretical views of strategic planning and the role leadership should perform within South African organisations in the year 2000 are investigated. Firstly, the author conducted a theoretical study into the strategic management model, and the most important factors influencing it. Secondly, the author investigated the leadership theories in relation to strategic planning. Thirdly, an empirical study was conducted to determine to which extent South African managers are successful leaders, and the resulted impact on strategic planning. Lastly, the author evaluated the empirical study, and made recommendations based on the literature and empirical study conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Van Wyk, Luhan George
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Leadership , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65 , Leadership , Strategic planning
- Description: Strategic planning will reach its full potential once leadership operates effectively within the South African organisation. In this research, theoretical views of strategic planning and the role leadership should perform within South African organisations in the year 2000 are investigated. Firstly, the author conducted a theoretical study into the strategic management model, and the most important factors influencing it. Secondly, the author investigated the leadership theories in relation to strategic planning. Thirdly, an empirical study was conducted to determine to which extent South African managers are successful leaders, and the resulted impact on strategic planning. Lastly, the author evaluated the empirical study, and made recommendations based on the literature and empirical study conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation into the use of electrode mass measurement to optimise an electrostatic precipitator unit
- Authors: Pershad, Sathish Kumar
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Electrostatic precipitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66 , Electrostatic precipitation
- Description: Electrostatic precipitators (ESP’s) can be simply described as particle collection devices and service a wide variety of industries. This particle collection can either be classed as a cleansing or product recovery (or both) process. They can be found in fossil fueled power generation plant (municipal incinerators, iron and steel industries (sinter plants, coke ovens), non ferrous industries, rock products (cement, lime), chemical and petrochemical (detarrers, de-oilers) They have been around for approximately 70 years and their fundamental principle of operation has not changed much during this time. What has changed is the demand on their operating efficiency. Environmental pressure as well as the loss of product has forced ESP’s to perform even better than before. This performance enhancement is two-fold : an increase in collection efficiency and a reduction in maintenance and wear costs. This project researches the use of mass measurement techniques to optimise the operation of ESP’s from both the above mentioned perspectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Pershad, Sathish Kumar
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Electrostatic precipitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66 , Electrostatic precipitation
- Description: Electrostatic precipitators (ESP’s) can be simply described as particle collection devices and service a wide variety of industries. This particle collection can either be classed as a cleansing or product recovery (or both) process. They can be found in fossil fueled power generation plant (municipal incinerators, iron and steel industries (sinter plants, coke ovens), non ferrous industries, rock products (cement, lime), chemical and petrochemical (detarrers, de-oilers) They have been around for approximately 70 years and their fundamental principle of operation has not changed much during this time. What has changed is the demand on their operating efficiency. Environmental pressure as well as the loss of product has forced ESP’s to perform even better than before. This performance enhancement is two-fold : an increase in collection efficiency and a reduction in maintenance and wear costs. This project researches the use of mass measurement techniques to optimise the operation of ESP’s from both the above mentioned perspectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation of factors which influence integrating indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants into the learning programme for Grade 9 General Science
- Authors: Kimbugwe, Francis Kambugu
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Ethnoscience Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1624 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003506
- Description: This study explores knowledge of some medicinal plants amongst the sub-urban community of and around a township in the Eastern Cape province. This qualitative interpretivist case study presents the prior knowledge of medicinal plants possessed by Grade 9 learners, which is used as a springboard toward interviewing traditional healers, herbal practitioners and lecturers at a university in the departments of Botany and Pharmacy. The data obtained from the informants reveals the factors that can influence integration of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants in the learning programme for grade 9 General Science. These factors include: prior knowledge and enthusiasm of Grade 9 learners and teachers, support of the community which include parents, traditional healers, herbal practitioners and professionals who could introduce indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants into formal education, availability of resource materials and complexity of identifying pharmacologically tested plants from other indigenous medicinal plants. The analysis and discussion of the findings, have led me to conclude that the enthusiasm of learners who have a rich background of indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants is likely to be hampered by the unenthusiastic teachers as well as the reluctance of herbal practitioners in their communities to part with this knowledge. Hence I recommend that teachers be motivated through workshops and in-service training, conducted by goverr\ment paid herbal practitioners using the prior knowledge of learners as a stepping-stone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Kimbugwe, Francis Kambugu
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Ethnoscience Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1624 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003506
- Description: This study explores knowledge of some medicinal plants amongst the sub-urban community of and around a township in the Eastern Cape province. This qualitative interpretivist case study presents the prior knowledge of medicinal plants possessed by Grade 9 learners, which is used as a springboard toward interviewing traditional healers, herbal practitioners and lecturers at a university in the departments of Botany and Pharmacy. The data obtained from the informants reveals the factors that can influence integration of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants in the learning programme for grade 9 General Science. These factors include: prior knowledge and enthusiasm of Grade 9 learners and teachers, support of the community which include parents, traditional healers, herbal practitioners and professionals who could introduce indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants into formal education, availability of resource materials and complexity of identifying pharmacologically tested plants from other indigenous medicinal plants. The analysis and discussion of the findings, have led me to conclude that the enthusiasm of learners who have a rich background of indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants is likely to be hampered by the unenthusiastic teachers as well as the reluctance of herbal practitioners in their communities to part with this knowledge. Hence I recommend that teachers be motivated through workshops and in-service training, conducted by goverr\ment paid herbal practitioners using the prior knowledge of learners as a stepping-stone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
An investigation of the municipal credit control policy, with special reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Tsatsire, Israel
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Tourism management)
- Identifier: vital:10769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/67 , Municipal finance -- Accounting
- Description: In this mini-dissertation, an investigation of the municipal credit control policy, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality was undertaken. The dissertation comprises six chapters. The study is based on the assumption that the existing credit control policy currently (2001) used by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality to collect service arrears has failed and that this failure is the reason why the Municipality is struggling to survive financially. This is affecting the rendering of services. The validity of this assumption was investigated. The primary objectives of the research included, inter alia, to provide a brief theoretical background on the transformation of local government in South Africa. This was followed by an investigation of the role of South African local government and the impact of non-payment for municipal services, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The empirical survey, the research methodology and the interpretation of the research findings are described. This is followed by an explanation of the survey questionnaire used for the accumulation of data needed for the analysis. The research findings of the empirical survey were statistically analysed and reported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Tsatsire, Israel
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Tourism management)
- Identifier: vital:10769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/67 , Municipal finance -- Accounting
- Description: In this mini-dissertation, an investigation of the municipal credit control policy, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality was undertaken. The dissertation comprises six chapters. The study is based on the assumption that the existing credit control policy currently (2001) used by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality to collect service arrears has failed and that this failure is the reason why the Municipality is struggling to survive financially. This is affecting the rendering of services. The validity of this assumption was investigated. The primary objectives of the research included, inter alia, to provide a brief theoretical background on the transformation of local government in South Africa. This was followed by an investigation of the role of South African local government and the impact of non-payment for municipal services, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The empirical survey, the research methodology and the interpretation of the research findings are described. This is followed by an explanation of the survey questionnaire used for the accumulation of data needed for the analysis. The research findings of the empirical survey were statistically analysed and reported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Analysis of supply chain improvement strategies by first tier automatic suppliers in the Nelson Mandela metropole
- Authors: Tinderholm, Pieter Johannes
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Business logistics , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37 , Business logistics , Production management
- Description: First tier automotive suppliers in the Nelson Mandela Metropole are under continued pressures created by the process of globalisation. To stay globally competitive suppliers, have to rethink their supply chain strategies. It is important that suppliers understand the environment that it operates within, this environment present first tier automotive suppliers with numerous problems and challenges. An analysis of this problems and challenges are needed and supply chain strategies need to be developed to overcome these problems and challenges. Before these strategies can be developed a full understanding of the supply chain is necessary. This dissertation aims to assess the problems and challenges facing first tier automotive suppliers, give a full understanding of the supply chain and present strategies to overcome these problems and challenges. The supply chain has become less structured and closer partnerships are needed between trading partners. The connectivity, transparency and visibility of the supply chain have improved through developments in the communication technology field. Strategies need to utilise these technologies to create a competitive edge. Effective supply chain strategies need to enable first tier automotive suppliers to deliver materials: At the right time; In the right quantities; At the right quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Tinderholm, Pieter Johannes
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Business logistics , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37 , Business logistics , Production management
- Description: First tier automotive suppliers in the Nelson Mandela Metropole are under continued pressures created by the process of globalisation. To stay globally competitive suppliers, have to rethink their supply chain strategies. It is important that suppliers understand the environment that it operates within, this environment present first tier automotive suppliers with numerous problems and challenges. An analysis of this problems and challenges are needed and supply chain strategies need to be developed to overcome these problems and challenges. Before these strategies can be developed a full understanding of the supply chain is necessary. This dissertation aims to assess the problems and challenges facing first tier automotive suppliers, give a full understanding of the supply chain and present strategies to overcome these problems and challenges. The supply chain has become less structured and closer partnerships are needed between trading partners. The connectivity, transparency and visibility of the supply chain have improved through developments in the communication technology field. Strategies need to utilise these technologies to create a competitive edge. Effective supply chain strategies need to enable first tier automotive suppliers to deliver materials: At the right time; In the right quantities; At the right quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Analysis of the modes of entry into the central East Africa market for a multinational enterprise
- Authors: Knight, John Lawry Cole
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Export marketing , Competition, International , International business enterprises
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10842 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38 , Export marketing , Competition, International , International business enterprises
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is to determine the potential of selling and marketing consumer goods by Multinational Enterprises (MNE) within the African markets. The mode of entry, the timing of entry, the different modes of entry, selection of the entry mode, the political and economic risks, core competencies of the company and strategic alliance was researched. To achieve this, research was executed on the above areas of importance using relevant literature in which an understanding of the international markets and their options of modes of entry were highlighted. In this way one is able to understand the importance of the international markets and the concerns of doing business in Africa in order to select the entry mode that could best suit the company and the country or countries in Africa. The literature study was then used to develop a questionnaire to test the degree to which managers in MNE in South Africa (SA) and Central East Africa (CEA) concur with regard to the decisions, risks, procedure, modes of entry and selection of modes of entry into Africa. The empirical results obtained indicate a strong concurrence with the analysis of the modes of entry into CEA market for an MNE. The analysis of the literature study, Chapter 2 and 3, gives business a good understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of the problems and opportunities associated with the entry decisions into CEA. Many other companies are entering the African markets from other parts of the world and SA has also been seen as a launching pad into Africa. The analysis will give companies the edge in seeing the problems and opportunities in African markets and the way forward when deciding to enter.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Knight, John Lawry Cole
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Export marketing , Competition, International , International business enterprises
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10842 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38 , Export marketing , Competition, International , International business enterprises
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is to determine the potential of selling and marketing consumer goods by Multinational Enterprises (MNE) within the African markets. The mode of entry, the timing of entry, the different modes of entry, selection of the entry mode, the political and economic risks, core competencies of the company and strategic alliance was researched. To achieve this, research was executed on the above areas of importance using relevant literature in which an understanding of the international markets and their options of modes of entry were highlighted. In this way one is able to understand the importance of the international markets and the concerns of doing business in Africa in order to select the entry mode that could best suit the company and the country or countries in Africa. The literature study was then used to develop a questionnaire to test the degree to which managers in MNE in South Africa (SA) and Central East Africa (CEA) concur with regard to the decisions, risks, procedure, modes of entry and selection of modes of entry into Africa. The empirical results obtained indicate a strong concurrence with the analysis of the modes of entry into CEA market for an MNE. The analysis of the literature study, Chapter 2 and 3, gives business a good understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of the problems and opportunities associated with the entry decisions into CEA. Many other companies are entering the African markets from other parts of the world and SA has also been seen as a launching pad into Africa. The analysis will give companies the edge in seeing the problems and opportunities in African markets and the way forward when deciding to enter.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Applicability of a health literacy test from the U.S. in a South African population
- Lecoko, Motlalepule Lebogang Elizabeth
- Authors: Lecoko, Motlalepule Lebogang Elizabeth
- Date: 2001 , 2013-04-29
- Subjects: Literacy , Literacy -- South Africa , Literacy -- Ability testing , Reading -- Ability testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3824 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005931 , Literacy , Literacy -- South Africa , Literacy -- Ability testing , Reading -- Ability testing
- Description: This thesis investigates the suitability and applicability of a health literacy test from the U.S. in a black, Xhosa-speaking, South African population. The concept of literacy is a controversial one which has been much debated, as it is not easy to classifY people as simply either literate or illiterate. As a result there are a number of definitions of literacy that vary with purpose and culture, but the most common one is that a person is literate if he/she can read and write. Estimating literacy from years of schooling is an inexpensive method but is also unreliable, since people generally read 3 to 5 grades below their stated educational level. This method affords little insight into the ability of patients to adequately function in a health care enviromnent, an ability which is referred to as functional health literacy. A number of health literacy tests such as the REALM (Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine) test have been developed to assess this skill. The REALM test is a word recognition test which places people into a relevant grade range estimate according to the number of words pronounced correctly. It appears to assume understanding of the word if the person is able to read that word correctly. In this project 125 black Xhosa-speaking respondents of varying educational levels who were literate in English were interviewed with the aid of an interpreter. Comprehensive demographic data were collected. Respondents were first asked to read all 66 words aloud during which time pronunciation was checked, and thereafter they were asked to explain each word. It was found that the ability to automatically decode and read the words did not necessarily guarantee comprehension of these words. Many of the words proved to be unfamiliar to the majority of the Xhosa respondents who were able to pronounce them correctly, but could not explain them. These tended to be phonetically transparent words which were therefore more accessible to the unfamiliar reader. This research has proven to be of great value in helping identify such words which should be substituted with simpler words for use in health information materials. A number of words could neither be pronounced nor understood by the population majority and, interestingly, a small group of words could not be pronounced but were satisfactorily explained by some respondents. The results showed an extremely poor correlation between the stated educational level and the REALM grade range estimate. This emphasizes the inappropriateness of years of formal schooling as an indicator of functional health literacy. The criteria were established for deciding cases in which the REALM test could be applied (or succeeds) and when it is inapplicable (or fails). It was found to be inapplicable in 41% of cases which clearly indicates that, in its current form, it is not a valid, reliable test to use in determining health literacy in this English second language population. It can, however, be used as a basis fur the development of a more appropriate test. Recommendations for future research direction are presented and an alternative structure for a health literacy test is suggested. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Lecoko, Motlalepule Lebogang Elizabeth
- Date: 2001 , 2013-04-29
- Subjects: Literacy , Literacy -- South Africa , Literacy -- Ability testing , Reading -- Ability testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3824 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005931 , Literacy , Literacy -- South Africa , Literacy -- Ability testing , Reading -- Ability testing
- Description: This thesis investigates the suitability and applicability of a health literacy test from the U.S. in a black, Xhosa-speaking, South African population. The concept of literacy is a controversial one which has been much debated, as it is not easy to classifY people as simply either literate or illiterate. As a result there are a number of definitions of literacy that vary with purpose and culture, but the most common one is that a person is literate if he/she can read and write. Estimating literacy from years of schooling is an inexpensive method but is also unreliable, since people generally read 3 to 5 grades below their stated educational level. This method affords little insight into the ability of patients to adequately function in a health care enviromnent, an ability which is referred to as functional health literacy. A number of health literacy tests such as the REALM (Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine) test have been developed to assess this skill. The REALM test is a word recognition test which places people into a relevant grade range estimate according to the number of words pronounced correctly. It appears to assume understanding of the word if the person is able to read that word correctly. In this project 125 black Xhosa-speaking respondents of varying educational levels who were literate in English were interviewed with the aid of an interpreter. Comprehensive demographic data were collected. Respondents were first asked to read all 66 words aloud during which time pronunciation was checked, and thereafter they were asked to explain each word. It was found that the ability to automatically decode and read the words did not necessarily guarantee comprehension of these words. Many of the words proved to be unfamiliar to the majority of the Xhosa respondents who were able to pronounce them correctly, but could not explain them. These tended to be phonetically transparent words which were therefore more accessible to the unfamiliar reader. This research has proven to be of great value in helping identify such words which should be substituted with simpler words for use in health information materials. A number of words could neither be pronounced nor understood by the population majority and, interestingly, a small group of words could not be pronounced but were satisfactorily explained by some respondents. The results showed an extremely poor correlation between the stated educational level and the REALM grade range estimate. This emphasizes the inappropriateness of years of formal schooling as an indicator of functional health literacy. The criteria were established for deciding cases in which the REALM test could be applied (or succeeds) and when it is inapplicable (or fails). It was found to be inapplicable in 41% of cases which clearly indicates that, in its current form, it is not a valid, reliable test to use in determining health literacy in this English second language population. It can, however, be used as a basis fur the development of a more appropriate test. Recommendations for future research direction are presented and an alternative structure for a health literacy test is suggested. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001