Towards an exceptional Undergraduate Personal Learning Experience: the Personal Librarian Programme, a pilot project at Rhodes University Library
- Authors: Gontshi, V
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6985 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007918
- Description: This paper is a record of a unique intervention for enhancing the undergraduate learning experience at Rhodes University. It focuses on the establishment of the project, the experiences encountered and lessons learned thus far. In April 2013, a team of 13 librarians embarked on a Personal Librarian Pilot Project at the Rhodes University Library. The Personal Librarian Programme is primarily directed at undergraduate students at Rhodes University. In an attempt to bridge the information literacy skills gap that exists between Senior School and University in South Africa, the idea behind this programme is that each incoming first year student is assigned a Personal Librarian who will remain that individual’s contact in the library throughout his/her academic career at Rhodes University. The project came about as a result of research exploring the perceptions of both students and lecturers in the Commerce Faculty at Rhodes University with regard to Information Literacy practices and needs (Gontshi, 2011). The study revealed and recorded a shortcoming in the Information Literacy ability of students between Senior School Level and University Level. It became clear that new University students were not aware of the important link between their academic studies and the Library which in turn suggested the need to make Rhodes University librarians and the role that they play in the academic world more obvious to these new students (Gontshi, 2011). The Personal Librarian Programme was devised to fill this need. The Librarians involved in this programme include staff from all sections of the Library: circulation, faculty liaison and bibliographic/technical services. The training needs of staff who did not work directly with students were identified and the relevant training provided. The staff from circulation and bibliographic/technical services sections identified a need to advance their knowledge in the use of the library from a users’ perspective. The training focused on the following: “Brainstorming a research topic with a student”; “Identifying relevant databases to conduct a research topic” and “Conducting a search on relevant databases for the research topic” – this included different ways of devising an effective search technique. The training ensured a good foundation for these librarians to develop their confidence to work with users. The project, modeled on a similar programme at the Yale University Library in the United States of America, was also a direct result of Rhodes University Library’s involvement in the Carnegie Research Libraries Consortium (2009 – 2011) and the author’s ten-week internship in the United States, seven weeks of which were spent at Yale University.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gontshi, V
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6985 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007918
- Description: This paper is a record of a unique intervention for enhancing the undergraduate learning experience at Rhodes University. It focuses on the establishment of the project, the experiences encountered and lessons learned thus far. In April 2013, a team of 13 librarians embarked on a Personal Librarian Pilot Project at the Rhodes University Library. The Personal Librarian Programme is primarily directed at undergraduate students at Rhodes University. In an attempt to bridge the information literacy skills gap that exists between Senior School and University in South Africa, the idea behind this programme is that each incoming first year student is assigned a Personal Librarian who will remain that individual’s contact in the library throughout his/her academic career at Rhodes University. The project came about as a result of research exploring the perceptions of both students and lecturers in the Commerce Faculty at Rhodes University with regard to Information Literacy practices and needs (Gontshi, 2011). The study revealed and recorded a shortcoming in the Information Literacy ability of students between Senior School Level and University Level. It became clear that new University students were not aware of the important link between their academic studies and the Library which in turn suggested the need to make Rhodes University librarians and the role that they play in the academic world more obvious to these new students (Gontshi, 2011). The Personal Librarian Programme was devised to fill this need. The Librarians involved in this programme include staff from all sections of the Library: circulation, faculty liaison and bibliographic/technical services. The training needs of staff who did not work directly with students were identified and the relevant training provided. The staff from circulation and bibliographic/technical services sections identified a need to advance their knowledge in the use of the library from a users’ perspective. The training focused on the following: “Brainstorming a research topic with a student”; “Identifying relevant databases to conduct a research topic” and “Conducting a search on relevant databases for the research topic” – this included different ways of devising an effective search technique. The training ensured a good foundation for these librarians to develop their confidence to work with users. The project, modeled on a similar programme at the Yale University Library in the United States of America, was also a direct result of Rhodes University Library’s involvement in the Carnegie Research Libraries Consortium (2009 – 2011) and the author’s ten-week internship in the United States, seven weeks of which were spent at Yale University.
- Full Text:
Towards identifying how knowledge management concepts may be applied to enhance the tendering process in South African public sector institutions
- Authors: Kasi, Sizukisa Bridget
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Letting of contracts -- South Africa , Knowledge management , Public contracts -- South Africa , Transparency in government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:1150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007741 , Letting of contracts -- South Africa , Knowledge management , Public contracts -- South Africa , Transparency in government -- South Africa
- Description: The state of the Tendering Process in South African Government Institutions has become an area of concern in recent years with issues related to transparency, governance and rigid retrospective procedures being cited as impediments to efficiency. In tum, Knowledge Management (KM) and its ability to be applied to all types of organisations to increase efficiency has been popularised extensively. An analysis of KM literature suggested that the principles of KM may be used to increase efficiency and create competitive advantage. This study attempted to identify whether the benefits gained by other organisations through the application of Knowledge Management principles, could be applied to the Tendering Process in South African Government Institutions. The study sought to identify how Knowledge Value Chain by Wang and Ahmed (2005) may be leveraged to create an enhanced Tendering Process. The study then reviewed the Tendering Processes conducted in Australia, United States of America, Malaysia and South Africa and sought to identify the common steps in a tendering process in order to construct a standard tendering process. The Knowledge Value Chain was then applied to this process to create a standard tendering process enhanced by Knowledge Management Principles. The model was compared to the processes currently conducted in two Government institutions and two parastals. The findings indicated that the model is well suited for Government Organisations and would assist in the creation of greater transparency, however the practical implementation of the model is yet unlikely as the model suggest electronic access to information, and the process in South African Government Institutions is predominately paper-based.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kasi, Sizukisa Bridget
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Letting of contracts -- South Africa , Knowledge management , Public contracts -- South Africa , Transparency in government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:1150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007741 , Letting of contracts -- South Africa , Knowledge management , Public contracts -- South Africa , Transparency in government -- South Africa
- Description: The state of the Tendering Process in South African Government Institutions has become an area of concern in recent years with issues related to transparency, governance and rigid retrospective procedures being cited as impediments to efficiency. In tum, Knowledge Management (KM) and its ability to be applied to all types of organisations to increase efficiency has been popularised extensively. An analysis of KM literature suggested that the principles of KM may be used to increase efficiency and create competitive advantage. This study attempted to identify whether the benefits gained by other organisations through the application of Knowledge Management principles, could be applied to the Tendering Process in South African Government Institutions. The study sought to identify how Knowledge Value Chain by Wang and Ahmed (2005) may be leveraged to create an enhanced Tendering Process. The study then reviewed the Tendering Processes conducted in Australia, United States of America, Malaysia and South Africa and sought to identify the common steps in a tendering process in order to construct a standard tendering process. The Knowledge Value Chain was then applied to this process to create a standard tendering process enhanced by Knowledge Management Principles. The model was compared to the processes currently conducted in two Government institutions and two parastals. The findings indicated that the model is well suited for Government Organisations and would assist in the creation of greater transparency, however the practical implementation of the model is yet unlikely as the model suggest electronic access to information, and the process in South African Government Institutions is predominately paper-based.
- Full Text:
Towards the development of a mycoinsecticide to control white grubs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in South African sugarcane
- Authors: Goble, Tarryn Anne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Insecticides -- Environmental aspects Insecticides -- Toxicology Beetles -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Beetles -- Control -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Coleophoridae -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Scarabaeidae -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Sugarcane -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Sugarcane -- Diseases and pests -- Control -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Insecticides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5586 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001748
- Description: In the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Midlands North region of South Africa, the importance and increased prevalence of endemic scarabaeids, particularly Hypopholis sommeri Burmeister and Schizonycha affinis Boheman (Coleoptera: Melolonthinae), as soil pests of sugarcane, and a need for their control was established. The development of a mycoinsecticide offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. The identification of a diversity of white grub species, in two Scarabaeidae subfamilies, representing seven genera were collected in sugarcane as a pest complex. Hypopholis sommeri and S. affinis were the most prevalent species. The increased seasonal abundances, diversity and highly aggregated nature of these scarabaeid species in summer months, suggested that targeting and control strategies for these pests should be considered in this season. Increased rainfall, relative humidity and soil temperatures were linked to the increased occurrence of scarab adults and neonate grubs. Beauveria brongniartii (Saccardo) Petch epizootics were recorded at two sites in the KZN Midlands North on H. sommeri. Seventeen different fluorescently-labelled microsatellite PCR primers were used to target 78 isolates of Beauveria sp. DNA. Microsatellite data resolved two distinct clusters of Beauveria isolates which represented the Beauveria bassiana senso stricto (Balsamo) Vuillemin and B. brongniartii species groups. These groupings were supported by two gene regions, the nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and the nuclear B locus (Bloc) gene of which 23 exemplar Beauveria isolates were represented and sequenced. When microsatellite data were analysed, 26 haplotypes among 58 isolates of B. brongniartii were distinguished. Relatively low levels of genetic diversity were detected in B. brongniartii and isolates were shown to be closely related. There was no genetic differentiation between the two sites, Harden Heights and Canema in the KZN Midlands North. High gene flow from swarming H. sommeri beetles is the proposed mechanism for this lack of genetic differentiation between populations. Microsatellite analyses also showed that B. brongniartii conidia were being cycled from arboreal to subterranean habitats in the environment by H. sommeri beetles. This was the first record of this species of fungus causing epizootics on the larvae and adults of H. sommeri in South Africa. The virulence of 21 isolates of Beauveria brongniartii and two isolates of B. bassiana were evaluated against the adults and larvae of S. affinis and the adults of H. sommeri and Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Despite being closely-related, B. brongniartii isolates varied significantly in their virulence towards different hosts and highlighted the host specific nature of B. brongniartii towards S. affinis when compared to B. bassiana. Adults of S. affinis were significantly more susceptible to B. brongniartii isolates than the second (L2) or third instar (L3) grubs. The median lethal time (LT₅₀) of the most virulent B. brongniartii isolate (C13) against S. affinis adults was 7.8 days and probit analysis estimated a median lethal concentration (LC₅₀) of 4.4×10⁷ conidia/ml⁻¹. When L2 grubs were treated with a concentration of 1.0×10⁸ conidia/ml⁻¹, B. brongniartii isolates HHWG1, HHB39A and C17 caused mortality in L2 grubs within 18.4-19.8 days (LT₅₀). Beauveria brongniartii isolate HHWG1 was tested against the L3 grubs of S. affinis at four different concentrations. At the lowest concentration (1×10⁶ conidia/ml⁻¹), the LT₅₀ was 25.8 days, and at the highest concentration (1×10⁹ conidia/ml⁻¹) the LT₅₀ dropped to 15.1 days. The persistence of B. bassiana isolate 4222 formulated on rice and wheat bran and buried at eight field sites in the KZN Midlands North was evaluated by plating out a suspension of treated soil onto a selective medium. All eight field sites showed a significant decline in B. bassiana CFUs per gram of soil over time, with few conidia still present in the samples after a year. Greater declines in CFUs were observed at some sites but there were no significant differences observed in the persistence of conidia formulated on rice or wheat bran as carriers. Overall, poor persistence of B. bassiana isolate 4222 was attributed to suboptimum temperatures, rainfall, which rapidly degraded the nutritive carriers, attenuated fungal genotype and the action of antagonistic soil microbes. Growers’ perceptions of white grubs as pests and the feasibility of a mycoinsecticide market were evaluated by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. The study showed that the reduced feasibility of application, general lack of potential demand for a product, high cost factors and most importantly, the lack of pest perception, were factors which would negatively affect the adoption of a granular mycoinsecticide. Growers however exhibited a positive attitude towards mycoinsecticides, and showed all the relevant attributes for successful technology adoption. It is recommended that because B. brongniartii epizootics were recorded on target pests which indicated good host specificity, dispersal ability and persistence of the fungus in the intended environment of application; that a mycoinsecticide based on this fungal species be developed. What will likely increase adoption and success of a mycoinsecticide is collaboration between various industries partners to increases market potential in other crops such as Acacia mearnsii De Wild (Fabales: Fabaceae).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Goble, Tarryn Anne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Insecticides -- Environmental aspects Insecticides -- Toxicology Beetles -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Beetles -- Control -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Coleophoridae -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Scarabaeidae -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Sugarcane -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Sugarcane -- Diseases and pests -- Control -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Insecticides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5586 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001748
- Description: In the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Midlands North region of South Africa, the importance and increased prevalence of endemic scarabaeids, particularly Hypopholis sommeri Burmeister and Schizonycha affinis Boheman (Coleoptera: Melolonthinae), as soil pests of sugarcane, and a need for their control was established. The development of a mycoinsecticide offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. The identification of a diversity of white grub species, in two Scarabaeidae subfamilies, representing seven genera were collected in sugarcane as a pest complex. Hypopholis sommeri and S. affinis were the most prevalent species. The increased seasonal abundances, diversity and highly aggregated nature of these scarabaeid species in summer months, suggested that targeting and control strategies for these pests should be considered in this season. Increased rainfall, relative humidity and soil temperatures were linked to the increased occurrence of scarab adults and neonate grubs. Beauveria brongniartii (Saccardo) Petch epizootics were recorded at two sites in the KZN Midlands North on H. sommeri. Seventeen different fluorescently-labelled microsatellite PCR primers were used to target 78 isolates of Beauveria sp. DNA. Microsatellite data resolved two distinct clusters of Beauveria isolates which represented the Beauveria bassiana senso stricto (Balsamo) Vuillemin and B. brongniartii species groups. These groupings were supported by two gene regions, the nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and the nuclear B locus (Bloc) gene of which 23 exemplar Beauveria isolates were represented and sequenced. When microsatellite data were analysed, 26 haplotypes among 58 isolates of B. brongniartii were distinguished. Relatively low levels of genetic diversity were detected in B. brongniartii and isolates were shown to be closely related. There was no genetic differentiation between the two sites, Harden Heights and Canema in the KZN Midlands North. High gene flow from swarming H. sommeri beetles is the proposed mechanism for this lack of genetic differentiation between populations. Microsatellite analyses also showed that B. brongniartii conidia were being cycled from arboreal to subterranean habitats in the environment by H. sommeri beetles. This was the first record of this species of fungus causing epizootics on the larvae and adults of H. sommeri in South Africa. The virulence of 21 isolates of Beauveria brongniartii and two isolates of B. bassiana were evaluated against the adults and larvae of S. affinis and the adults of H. sommeri and Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Despite being closely-related, B. brongniartii isolates varied significantly in their virulence towards different hosts and highlighted the host specific nature of B. brongniartii towards S. affinis when compared to B. bassiana. Adults of S. affinis were significantly more susceptible to B. brongniartii isolates than the second (L2) or third instar (L3) grubs. The median lethal time (LT₅₀) of the most virulent B. brongniartii isolate (C13) against S. affinis adults was 7.8 days and probit analysis estimated a median lethal concentration (LC₅₀) of 4.4×10⁷ conidia/ml⁻¹. When L2 grubs were treated with a concentration of 1.0×10⁸ conidia/ml⁻¹, B. brongniartii isolates HHWG1, HHB39A and C17 caused mortality in L2 grubs within 18.4-19.8 days (LT₅₀). Beauveria brongniartii isolate HHWG1 was tested against the L3 grubs of S. affinis at four different concentrations. At the lowest concentration (1×10⁶ conidia/ml⁻¹), the LT₅₀ was 25.8 days, and at the highest concentration (1×10⁹ conidia/ml⁻¹) the LT₅₀ dropped to 15.1 days. The persistence of B. bassiana isolate 4222 formulated on rice and wheat bran and buried at eight field sites in the KZN Midlands North was evaluated by plating out a suspension of treated soil onto a selective medium. All eight field sites showed a significant decline in B. bassiana CFUs per gram of soil over time, with few conidia still present in the samples after a year. Greater declines in CFUs were observed at some sites but there were no significant differences observed in the persistence of conidia formulated on rice or wheat bran as carriers. Overall, poor persistence of B. bassiana isolate 4222 was attributed to suboptimum temperatures, rainfall, which rapidly degraded the nutritive carriers, attenuated fungal genotype and the action of antagonistic soil microbes. Growers’ perceptions of white grubs as pests and the feasibility of a mycoinsecticide market were evaluated by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. The study showed that the reduced feasibility of application, general lack of potential demand for a product, high cost factors and most importantly, the lack of pest perception, were factors which would negatively affect the adoption of a granular mycoinsecticide. Growers however exhibited a positive attitude towards mycoinsecticides, and showed all the relevant attributes for successful technology adoption. It is recommended that because B. brongniartii epizootics were recorded on target pests which indicated good host specificity, dispersal ability and persistence of the fungus in the intended environment of application; that a mycoinsecticide based on this fungal species be developed. What will likely increase adoption and success of a mycoinsecticide is collaboration between various industries partners to increases market potential in other crops such as Acacia mearnsii De Wild (Fabales: Fabaceae).
- Full Text:
Trade union responses to the casualisation of labour in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Loni, Kholosa Siphe
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-23
- Subjects: Labor unions -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Casual labor -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Precarious employment -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Temporary employees -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- Research -- South Africa Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor and globalization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3286 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003056
- Description: This thesis focuses on trade union responses to casualisation of labour in the Eastern Cape. In the context of increased globalization, some employers have attempted to achieve high production outputs while saving on operational costs. The ‘flexible firm’ model is used as but one theory to explain increased flexibility in the workplace. In an effort to achieve increasingly flexible firms that may swiftly respond to subsequent challenges such as increased international competition, employers have been seen incorporating more non-standard workers in the form of casual, temporary, part-time, and seasonal workers. This has been a matter of concern for the unions for numerous reasons: some nonstandard workers are subjected to sub-standard working conditions, irregular working hours and little or no benefits; casual work is arranged in such a way that it is virtually impossible for these workers to join a union – a predicament which bears a high possibility of a decline in the typically standard worker–based membership of trade unions; and non-standard workers are often faced with the representation gap predicament which entails that they are not adequately protected by labour legislation. The thesis explores the responses of trade unions to these challenges, and the proposals that they have made in this regard, by focusing on the sectoral dynamics of non-standard labour in the province. It further discusses the regulation of non-standard labour, as poor representation of some non-standard workers bears consequences for the regulation of the practice of non-standard work. The research adopted qualitative research techniques in the form of semi-structured interviews, and used purposive and snowball sampling in accessing relevant data for analysis purposes.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Loni, Kholosa Siphe
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-23
- Subjects: Labor unions -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Casual labor -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Precarious employment -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Temporary employees -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- Research -- South Africa Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor and globalization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3286 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003056
- Description: This thesis focuses on trade union responses to casualisation of labour in the Eastern Cape. In the context of increased globalization, some employers have attempted to achieve high production outputs while saving on operational costs. The ‘flexible firm’ model is used as but one theory to explain increased flexibility in the workplace. In an effort to achieve increasingly flexible firms that may swiftly respond to subsequent challenges such as increased international competition, employers have been seen incorporating more non-standard workers in the form of casual, temporary, part-time, and seasonal workers. This has been a matter of concern for the unions for numerous reasons: some nonstandard workers are subjected to sub-standard working conditions, irregular working hours and little or no benefits; casual work is arranged in such a way that it is virtually impossible for these workers to join a union – a predicament which bears a high possibility of a decline in the typically standard worker–based membership of trade unions; and non-standard workers are often faced with the representation gap predicament which entails that they are not adequately protected by labour legislation. The thesis explores the responses of trade unions to these challenges, and the proposals that they have made in this regard, by focusing on the sectoral dynamics of non-standard labour in the province. It further discusses the regulation of non-standard labour, as poor representation of some non-standard workers bears consequences for the regulation of the practice of non-standard work. The research adopted qualitative research techniques in the form of semi-structured interviews, and used purposive and snowball sampling in accessing relevant data for analysis purposes.
- Full Text:
Traditions and new niches: An overview of environmental education curriculum and learning research
- Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, Fien, John, Ketlhoilwe, Mphemelang
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Fien, John , Ketlhoilwe, Mphemelang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437323 , vital:73370 , ISBN 9780203813331 , https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780203813331-26/traditions-new-niches-heila-lotz-sisitka-john-fien-mphemelang-ketlhoilwe
- Description: In this chapter we consider the traditions of environmental ed-ucation curriculum and learning research, their relationship to wider education research traditions, and point to new niches for curriculum and learning research, as opened up (in part) 1 through the contributions in this section of the IRHEE. The chapter points to the fact that environmental education re-search seems to primarily be seeking to fulfill a “cultural inno-vation role” in the wider education research landscape, carving out niches and spaces that speak to educational innova-tion/transformation and change. This may in part be due to its “youthfulness” within the more established and traditional edu-cation research landscape and trajectory, but also to its trans-formative intent. Environmental education researchers such as Stevenson (2007) continue to lament the “marginal” or “perma-nently peripheral” status of environmental education and envi-ronmental education research, noting that it is almost impossi-ble to situate effectively within modernist educational para-digms oriented mostly toward reproduction of existing cultures and practices, traditions which continue to characterize formal education institutional settings.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Fien, John , Ketlhoilwe, Mphemelang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book chapter
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/437323 , vital:73370 , ISBN 9780203813331 , https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780203813331-26/traditions-new-niches-heila-lotz-sisitka-john-fien-mphemelang-ketlhoilwe
- Description: In this chapter we consider the traditions of environmental ed-ucation curriculum and learning research, their relationship to wider education research traditions, and point to new niches for curriculum and learning research, as opened up (in part) 1 through the contributions in this section of the IRHEE. The chapter points to the fact that environmental education re-search seems to primarily be seeking to fulfill a “cultural inno-vation role” in the wider education research landscape, carving out niches and spaces that speak to educational innova-tion/transformation and change. This may in part be due to its “youthfulness” within the more established and traditional edu-cation research landscape and trajectory, but also to its trans-formative intent. Environmental education researchers such as Stevenson (2007) continue to lament the “marginal” or “perma-nently peripheral” status of environmental education and envi-ronmental education research, noting that it is almost impossi-ble to situate effectively within modernist educational para-digms oriented mostly toward reproduction of existing cultures and practices, traditions which continue to characterize formal education institutional settings.
- Full Text:
Transcribing the Venda tshikona reedpipe dance
- Tracey, Andrew, Gumboreshumba, Laina
- Authors: Tracey, Andrew , Gumboreshumba, Laina
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: article , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/59744 , vital:27644 , http://dx.doi.org/10.21504/amj.v9i3.1909
- Description: Starting with the end result, the above transcription is the conclusion I came to after sitting with Laina Gumboreshumba for many hours, watching the videos she made during her recent doctoral research on the tshikona reedpipe dance of the Venda of Limpopo Province in the extreme north of South Africa. The transcription shown in Figure 2 is a skeleton version of the full pipe sound that contains all the information needed to grasp the structure of the sound and teach it or play it. There are always seven different pipes. A full tshikona group has far more than the seven pipes (nanga) shown, because all seven pipe numbers are doubled in every octave present in a group, so there may be up to four or more Pipe 1s, Pipe 2s, etc, of different sizes. All the Pipe 1s play the same pattern together, all the Pipe 2s etc. There are usually four octaves in all, with an incomplete octave of a few higher pitched pipes at the top (phalana). A popular size for a group according to group leaders (malogwane) is twenty eight pipes, which may include some pitch duplicates. A festive performance can number well over one hundred players. The music is heptatonic as you can see from the transcription, and hear for yourself from CD track 1 accompanying this issue of African Music. A chart showing the tuning is included as Figure 1 1 at the end of this article. This article does not address the pipe names; they are simply numbered Pipes 1 to 7, in the order of entry in Mr Netshivhale’s groups. The pipes are end-blown, closed tubes made of a special bamboo, or increasingly today of electrical or other tubing.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tracey, Andrew , Gumboreshumba, Laina
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: article , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/59744 , vital:27644 , http://dx.doi.org/10.21504/amj.v9i3.1909
- Description: Starting with the end result, the above transcription is the conclusion I came to after sitting with Laina Gumboreshumba for many hours, watching the videos she made during her recent doctoral research on the tshikona reedpipe dance of the Venda of Limpopo Province in the extreme north of South Africa. The transcription shown in Figure 2 is a skeleton version of the full pipe sound that contains all the information needed to grasp the structure of the sound and teach it or play it. There are always seven different pipes. A full tshikona group has far more than the seven pipes (nanga) shown, because all seven pipe numbers are doubled in every octave present in a group, so there may be up to four or more Pipe 1s, Pipe 2s, etc, of different sizes. All the Pipe 1s play the same pattern together, all the Pipe 2s etc. There are usually four octaves in all, with an incomplete octave of a few higher pitched pipes at the top (phalana). A popular size for a group according to group leaders (malogwane) is twenty eight pipes, which may include some pitch duplicates. A festive performance can number well over one hundred players. The music is heptatonic as you can see from the transcription, and hear for yourself from CD track 1 accompanying this issue of African Music. A chart showing the tuning is included as Figure 1 1 at the end of this article. This article does not address the pipe names; they are simply numbered Pipes 1 to 7, in the order of entry in Mr Netshivhale’s groups. The pipes are end-blown, closed tubes made of a special bamboo, or increasingly today of electrical or other tubing.
- Full Text:
Treating the psychological sequelae of proactive drug-facilitated sexual assault : knowledge building through systematic case based research
- Padmanabhanunni, Anita, Edwards, David J A
- Authors: Padmanabhanunni, Anita , Edwards, David J A
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007785
- Description: Background: Drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) has emerged as a distinct category of sexual victimization and precipitates posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Few studies have examined the distinct psychological aspects of PTSD caused by DFSA. Gauntlett-Gilbert, Keegan and Petrak (2004) represent a notable exception and draw on cases, from their clinical experience, treated using Ehlers and Clarks’ (2000) cognitive therapy (CT). Aims: This paper aims to further develop and refine clinical knowledge on CT for PTSD arising from DFSA and advance the findings of Gauntlett-Gilbert et al. (2004). Method: Systematic case based research was used to investigate the applicability of CT for PTSD related to DFSA. Three survivors were treated with CT within the South African context. Results: The case series corroborated existing findings but also documented the presence of somatic and visual intrusions among survivors with partial or complete amnesia for rape and illustrated the utility of imagery interventions in targeting intrusions. The study highlighted the role of physical paralysis in DFSA in compounding helplessness/powerlessness and the necessity of enhancing physical agency and building social support. Conclusion: Distinctive aspects of PTSD related to DFSA can be effectively treated by adapting CT to suit this population group.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Padmanabhanunni, Anita , Edwards, David J A
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007785
- Description: Background: Drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) has emerged as a distinct category of sexual victimization and precipitates posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Few studies have examined the distinct psychological aspects of PTSD caused by DFSA. Gauntlett-Gilbert, Keegan and Petrak (2004) represent a notable exception and draw on cases, from their clinical experience, treated using Ehlers and Clarks’ (2000) cognitive therapy (CT). Aims: This paper aims to further develop and refine clinical knowledge on CT for PTSD arising from DFSA and advance the findings of Gauntlett-Gilbert et al. (2004). Method: Systematic case based research was used to investigate the applicability of CT for PTSD related to DFSA. Three survivors were treated with CT within the South African context. Results: The case series corroborated existing findings but also documented the presence of somatic and visual intrusions among survivors with partial or complete amnesia for rape and illustrated the utility of imagery interventions in targeting intrusions. The study highlighted the role of physical paralysis in DFSA in compounding helplessness/powerlessness and the necessity of enhancing physical agency and building social support. Conclusion: Distinctive aspects of PTSD related to DFSA can be effectively treated by adapting CT to suit this population group.
- Full Text:
Treating the psychological sequelae of proactive drug-facilitated sexual assault : knowledge building through systematic case based research : extended version of the article that was published as a brief report
- Padmanabhanunni, Anita, Edwards, David J A
- Authors: Padmanabhanunni, Anita , Edwards, David J A
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6236 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007786
- Description: From Introduction: Drug facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) -- on victims who are too intoxicated to be aware of their surroundings or exercise any control of the situation -- has emerged as a distinct category of sexual victimisation. DFSA has been identified as a significant public health concern, particularly among college students, with the majority of victims being women (McCauley, Ruggiero, Resnick, & Kilpatrick, 2010; Zinzow, Resnick, McCauley, Amstadter, Ruggiero, & Kilpatrick, 2010). Exact rates remain uncertain due to significant under-reporting (Du Mont, Macdonald, Rotbard, Asslanni, & Bainbridge, 2010; Lawyer, Resnick, Bakanic, Burkett, & Kilpatrick, 2010). Opportunistic DFSA, also called incapacitated rape (Lawyer et al., 2010; Zinzow at al., 2010), is the most common form and refers to assaults on women who have voluntarily consumed an excessive amount of alcohol (Lovett & Horvath, 2009). In proactive DFSA (called drug facilitated rape by Lawyer et al., 2010 and drug-alcohol facilitated rape by Zinzow et al., 2010), perpetrators deliberately incapacitate victims by plying them with alcohol or covertly administering an incapacitating drug such as Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) or Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) to victims with the intention of sexually assaulting them (Hall & Moore, 2008).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Padmanabhanunni, Anita , Edwards, David J A
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6236 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007786
- Description: From Introduction: Drug facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) -- on victims who are too intoxicated to be aware of their surroundings or exercise any control of the situation -- has emerged as a distinct category of sexual victimisation. DFSA has been identified as a significant public health concern, particularly among college students, with the majority of victims being women (McCauley, Ruggiero, Resnick, & Kilpatrick, 2010; Zinzow, Resnick, McCauley, Amstadter, Ruggiero, & Kilpatrick, 2010). Exact rates remain uncertain due to significant under-reporting (Du Mont, Macdonald, Rotbard, Asslanni, & Bainbridge, 2010; Lawyer, Resnick, Bakanic, Burkett, & Kilpatrick, 2010). Opportunistic DFSA, also called incapacitated rape (Lawyer et al., 2010; Zinzow at al., 2010), is the most common form and refers to assaults on women who have voluntarily consumed an excessive amount of alcohol (Lovett & Horvath, 2009). In proactive DFSA (called drug facilitated rape by Lawyer et al., 2010 and drug-alcohol facilitated rape by Zinzow et al., 2010), perpetrators deliberately incapacitate victims by plying them with alcohol or covertly administering an incapacitating drug such as Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) or Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) to victims with the intention of sexually assaulting them (Hall & Moore, 2008).
- Full Text:
Two sides of the same coin: extinctions and originations across the Atlantic/Indian Ocean boundary as consequences of the same climate oscillation
- Teske, Peter R, Zardi, Gerardo I, McQuaid, Christopher D, Nicastro, Katy R
- Authors: Teske, Peter R , Zardi, Gerardo I , McQuaid, Christopher D , Nicastro, Katy R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/445547 , vital:74399 , https://doi.org/10.21425/F5FBG15591
- Description: Global climate change is correlated not only with variation in extinction rates, but also with speciation rates. However, few mechanisms have been proposed to explain how climate change may have driven the emergence of new evolutionary lineages that eventually became distinct species. Here, we discuss a model of range extension followed by divergence, in which the same climate oscillations that resulted in the extinction of coastal species across the Atlantic/Indian Ocean boundary in southwestern Africa also sowed the seeds of new biodiversity. We present evidence for range extensions and evolutionary divergence from both fossil and genetic data, but also point out the many challenges to the model that need to be addressed before its validity can be accepted.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Teske, Peter R , Zardi, Gerardo I , McQuaid, Christopher D , Nicastro, Katy R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/445547 , vital:74399 , https://doi.org/10.21425/F5FBG15591
- Description: Global climate change is correlated not only with variation in extinction rates, but also with speciation rates. However, few mechanisms have been proposed to explain how climate change may have driven the emergence of new evolutionary lineages that eventually became distinct species. Here, we discuss a model of range extension followed by divergence, in which the same climate oscillations that resulted in the extinction of coastal species across the Atlantic/Indian Ocean boundary in southwestern Africa also sowed the seeds of new biodiversity. We present evidence for range extensions and evolutionary divergence from both fossil and genetic data, but also point out the many challenges to the model that need to be addressed before its validity can be accepted.
- Full Text:
Ultrafast Photodynamics of the Indoline Dye D149 Adsorbed to Porous ZnO in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
- Rohwer, Egmont, Richter, Christoph, Heming, Nadine, Strauch, Kerstin, Litwinski, Christian, Nyokong, Tebello, Schlettwein, Derck, Schwoerer, Heinrich
- Authors: Rohwer, Egmont , Richter, Christoph , Heming, Nadine , Strauch, Kerstin , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello , Schlettwein, Derck , Schwoerer, Heinrich
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/242153 , vital:51006 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cphc.201200715"
- Description: We investigate the ultrafast dynamics of the photoinduced electron transfer between surface-adsorbed indoline D149 dye and porous ZnO as used in the working electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells. Transient absorption spectroscopy was conducted on the dye in solution, on solid state samples and for the latter in contact to a I−/I3− redox electrolyte typical for dye-sensitized solar cells to elucidate the effect of each component in the observed dynamics. D149 in a solution of 1:1 acetonitrile and tert-butyl alcohol shows excited-state lifetimes of 300±50 ps. This signature is severely quenched when D149 is adsorbed to ZnO, with the fastest component of the decay trace measured at 150±20 fs due to the charge-transfer mechanism. Absorption bands of the oxidized dye molecule were investigated to determine regeneration times which are in excess of 1 ns. The addition of the redox electrolyte to the system results in faster regeneration times, of the order of 1 ns.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rohwer, Egmont , Richter, Christoph , Heming, Nadine , Strauch, Kerstin , Litwinski, Christian , Nyokong, Tebello , Schlettwein, Derck , Schwoerer, Heinrich
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/242153 , vital:51006 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cphc.201200715"
- Description: We investigate the ultrafast dynamics of the photoinduced electron transfer between surface-adsorbed indoline D149 dye and porous ZnO as used in the working electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells. Transient absorption spectroscopy was conducted on the dye in solution, on solid state samples and for the latter in contact to a I−/I3− redox electrolyte typical for dye-sensitized solar cells to elucidate the effect of each component in the observed dynamics. D149 in a solution of 1:1 acetonitrile and tert-butyl alcohol shows excited-state lifetimes of 300±50 ps. This signature is severely quenched when D149 is adsorbed to ZnO, with the fastest component of the decay trace measured at 150±20 fs due to the charge-transfer mechanism. Absorption bands of the oxidized dye molecule were investigated to determine regeneration times which are in excess of 1 ns. The addition of the redox electrolyte to the system results in faster regeneration times, of the order of 1 ns.
- Full Text:
Understanding Generation Y : an investigation of how Hilton College can use technology for communication
- Authors: Wyngaard, Richard Clive
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Generation Y -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Cell phones -- Social aspects Mobile communication systems -- Social aspects Information technology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004332
- Description: Background to the academic research. Hilton College is an all boys private school in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands. Since the beginning of 2012 boys have been permitted to carry their phones during the school day, (Thomson, 2012). Wireless internet access was also extended across the campus to allow boys and staff to bring their own devices to class and have access to the internet (Machlachlan, 2012). In the past, communication between staff and boys was either verbal or through the use of a daily notice, called the Daily Routine Order (DRO). The DRO is placed at the dining room tables each day and boys are expected to check for any notices that may pertain to them. These notices are emailed to a secretary who prints them out and places them in the dining room each day at lunch. 2. Objectives to the research. This research sought to establish whether current communication methods were effective or whether the prevalence of mobile phones and wireless devices had presented the school with a more effective method. It was important therefore, to investigate what devices were on campus, how those devices were used and when they were used. In addition to this, the research sought to establish communication preference among staff and boys. 3. Research Methodology. The research was conducted through the use of a qualitative survey that was conducted among both staff and boys. Staff and boys were surveyed to establish generation, device prevalence, device usage and device preference. This data was collected using an anonymous qualitative survey that was administered through the use of Google docs in the school labs. 187 Boys in 3 grades 8 and 9 participated in the survey along with 18 staff members. The data was then analysed and compared to data from similar research that had been conducted elsewhere in the world. Because of significant age differences between boys and staff it was critical to establish whether device usage among staff and boys was tied to their generation. Of particular interest were the device behaviours associated with the Millennial generation, who were born between 1982-2002 (Strauss 2005:10). This generational ‘benchmark’ allowed the researcher to compare the Hilton College cohort to those whose device behaviours and usage had occurred and been discussed in generational research elsewhere. It also allowed for certain assumptions to be made about staff and boys based on their generational profile. 4. Findings It was found that staff and boys exhibited communication traits that were consistent with their generation and consistent with other research in this field. It was also found that staff and boys preferred mobile and digital forms of communication over verbal announcements and the DRO system. For this reason, it was recommended that the Hilton College establish a system that took advantage of technology to improve on communication. Various recommendations were given by the researcher that took advantage of current technologies. These included the use of SMS, Instant Messaging, Social Networks and email. It was also recommended that the school consider prescribing devices that allow for communication between staff and boys.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Wyngaard, Richard Clive
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Generation Y -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Cell phones -- Social aspects Mobile communication systems -- Social aspects Information technology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004332
- Description: Background to the academic research. Hilton College is an all boys private school in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands. Since the beginning of 2012 boys have been permitted to carry their phones during the school day, (Thomson, 2012). Wireless internet access was also extended across the campus to allow boys and staff to bring their own devices to class and have access to the internet (Machlachlan, 2012). In the past, communication between staff and boys was either verbal or through the use of a daily notice, called the Daily Routine Order (DRO). The DRO is placed at the dining room tables each day and boys are expected to check for any notices that may pertain to them. These notices are emailed to a secretary who prints them out and places them in the dining room each day at lunch. 2. Objectives to the research. This research sought to establish whether current communication methods were effective or whether the prevalence of mobile phones and wireless devices had presented the school with a more effective method. It was important therefore, to investigate what devices were on campus, how those devices were used and when they were used. In addition to this, the research sought to establish communication preference among staff and boys. 3. Research Methodology. The research was conducted through the use of a qualitative survey that was conducted among both staff and boys. Staff and boys were surveyed to establish generation, device prevalence, device usage and device preference. This data was collected using an anonymous qualitative survey that was administered through the use of Google docs in the school labs. 187 Boys in 3 grades 8 and 9 participated in the survey along with 18 staff members. The data was then analysed and compared to data from similar research that had been conducted elsewhere in the world. Because of significant age differences between boys and staff it was critical to establish whether device usage among staff and boys was tied to their generation. Of particular interest were the device behaviours associated with the Millennial generation, who were born between 1982-2002 (Strauss 2005:10). This generational ‘benchmark’ allowed the researcher to compare the Hilton College cohort to those whose device behaviours and usage had occurred and been discussed in generational research elsewhere. It also allowed for certain assumptions to be made about staff and boys based on their generational profile. 4. Findings It was found that staff and boys exhibited communication traits that were consistent with their generation and consistent with other research in this field. It was also found that staff and boys preferred mobile and digital forms of communication over verbal announcements and the DRO system. For this reason, it was recommended that the Hilton College establish a system that took advantage of technology to improve on communication. Various recommendations were given by the researcher that took advantage of current technologies. These included the use of SMS, Instant Messaging, Social Networks and email. It was also recommended that the school consider prescribing devices that allow for communication between staff and boys.
- Full Text:
Understanding how teachers scaffold learners to make sense of biological language and concepts when using English as a mediational tool: a case study
- Authors: Nakale, Elifas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia Language and education -- Namibia , English as medium of instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1386 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001517
- Description: For the past few years, Namibian grade 11-12 learners’ achievement level in biology has not been very encouraging. Evidence to this effect is contained in recent examiners’ reports which outline misunderstanding and various misconceptions. The causes of these misunderstandings and misconceptions may be varied, but there is credible evidence that some of it is rooted in the language problem for learners. A classroom is a social unit where many social practices are acquired, including the use of English language. Equally, it is a place where errors in language are learnt and reinforced. Triggered by these challenges facing biology learners, a qualitative case study was conducted at two secondary schools in Ohangwena Region, Namibia. Its purpose was to investigate how biology teachers scaffold learners to make sense of biological language and concepts when English is used as the mediational tool. Underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm, the study made use of document analysis, observation (lessons were also video-taped) and interviews to generate the data. Several data generating techniques were used for triangulation and validation. To further validate the data, transcripts of video-taped lessons and interviews were sent back to the research participants for member checking. The data gathering methods were also used in data presentation, analysis and interpretation to determine the extent of scaffold that teachers provide to their biology learners. The main findings of my study are that, despite efforts by participant teachers to scaffold their learners in making sense of biological language and concepts, success rates in this regard remain disappointingly low due to their (teachers) limited pedagogical content knowledge. Teachers therefore require improved mentorship, monitoring and capacity building.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nakale, Elifas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia Language and education -- Namibia , English as medium of instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1386 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001517
- Description: For the past few years, Namibian grade 11-12 learners’ achievement level in biology has not been very encouraging. Evidence to this effect is contained in recent examiners’ reports which outline misunderstanding and various misconceptions. The causes of these misunderstandings and misconceptions may be varied, but there is credible evidence that some of it is rooted in the language problem for learners. A classroom is a social unit where many social practices are acquired, including the use of English language. Equally, it is a place where errors in language are learnt and reinforced. Triggered by these challenges facing biology learners, a qualitative case study was conducted at two secondary schools in Ohangwena Region, Namibia. Its purpose was to investigate how biology teachers scaffold learners to make sense of biological language and concepts when English is used as the mediational tool. Underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm, the study made use of document analysis, observation (lessons were also video-taped) and interviews to generate the data. Several data generating techniques were used for triangulation and validation. To further validate the data, transcripts of video-taped lessons and interviews were sent back to the research participants for member checking. The data gathering methods were also used in data presentation, analysis and interpretation to determine the extent of scaffold that teachers provide to their biology learners. The main findings of my study are that, despite efforts by participant teachers to scaffold their learners in making sense of biological language and concepts, success rates in this regard remain disappointingly low due to their (teachers) limited pedagogical content knowledge. Teachers therefore require improved mentorship, monitoring and capacity building.
- Full Text:
Understanding livelihood strategies of urban women traders : a case of Magaba, Harare in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chirau, Takunda John
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Zimbabwe -- Harare Women -- Zimbabwe -- Harare -- Social conditions Women -- Zimbabwe -- Harare -- Economic conditions Urban poor -- Zimbabwe -- Harare
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3335 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003742
- Description: This thesis seeks to understand and analyze the livelihood strategies of urban women traders at Magaba in Harare (Zimbabwe) in the context of the contemporary economic and political crisis. The crisis emerged in the 1990s with the introduction of a structural adjustment programme and deepened further with the fast track land reform programme initiated by the Zimbabwean government in the year 2000. The crisis has involved a down-sizing of the Zimbabwean economy and a massive rise in the rate of unemployment in the formal economy. Consequently urban life became increasingly unbearable for poor blacks and informal economic activities blossomed and started to make a significant contribution to household income and livelihoods. The role of women in the informal economy was particularly pronounced. Theoretically, the thesis is underpinned by the sustainable livelihoods framework. In examining the vulnerability context of the Magaba women traders and the institutional interventions which complicate the lives and livelihoods of these traders, I identify and unpack their diverse livelihood activities and strategies and the resources (or assets) they deploy in constructing urban livelihoods. Though their livelihood portfolios complement any earnings from formal employment by household members and though they contribute to their household’s sustenance, there are a number of daily challenges which they face in their trading activities and which they seek to counteract through a range of often ingenious coping mechanisms. The thesis is important for a number of reasons. It fills an important empirical gap in the study of Magaba market specifically, it brings to the fore the gendered character of the informal trading activities in urban Zimbabwe, and it deploys the livelihoods framework in a manner which is sensitive to both structure and agency.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chirau, Takunda John
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Zimbabwe -- Harare Women -- Zimbabwe -- Harare -- Social conditions Women -- Zimbabwe -- Harare -- Economic conditions Urban poor -- Zimbabwe -- Harare
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3335 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003742
- Description: This thesis seeks to understand and analyze the livelihood strategies of urban women traders at Magaba in Harare (Zimbabwe) in the context of the contemporary economic and political crisis. The crisis emerged in the 1990s with the introduction of a structural adjustment programme and deepened further with the fast track land reform programme initiated by the Zimbabwean government in the year 2000. The crisis has involved a down-sizing of the Zimbabwean economy and a massive rise in the rate of unemployment in the formal economy. Consequently urban life became increasingly unbearable for poor blacks and informal economic activities blossomed and started to make a significant contribution to household income and livelihoods. The role of women in the informal economy was particularly pronounced. Theoretically, the thesis is underpinned by the sustainable livelihoods framework. In examining the vulnerability context of the Magaba women traders and the institutional interventions which complicate the lives and livelihoods of these traders, I identify and unpack their diverse livelihood activities and strategies and the resources (or assets) they deploy in constructing urban livelihoods. Though their livelihood portfolios complement any earnings from formal employment by household members and though they contribute to their household’s sustenance, there are a number of daily challenges which they face in their trading activities and which they seek to counteract through a range of often ingenious coping mechanisms. The thesis is important for a number of reasons. It fills an important empirical gap in the study of Magaba market specifically, it brings to the fore the gendered character of the informal trading activities in urban Zimbabwe, and it deploys the livelihoods framework in a manner which is sensitive to both structure and agency.
- Full Text:
Understanding the medicines information-seeking behaviour and information needs of South African long-term patients with limited literacy skills:
- Patel, Sonal, Dowse, Roslind
- Authors: Patel, Sonal , Dowse, Roslind
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/156676 , vital:40037 , doi: 10.1111/hex.12131
- Description: Although much health information‐seeking behaviour (HISB) research has been reported in patients with good literacy skills, little is known about HISB in patients with limited literacy skills served by under‐resourced health‐care systems. To investigate medicine information‐seeking behaviour and information needs in patients with limited literacy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Patel, Sonal , Dowse, Roslind
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/156676 , vital:40037 , doi: 10.1111/hex.12131
- Description: Although much health information‐seeking behaviour (HISB) research has been reported in patients with good literacy skills, little is known about HISB in patients with limited literacy skills served by under‐resourced health‐care systems. To investigate medicine information‐seeking behaviour and information needs in patients with limited literacy.
- Full Text:
Understanding trainee teachers' engagement with prior everyday knowledge and experiences in teaching physical science concepts : a case study
- Authors: Mukwambo, Muzwangowenyu
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Ethnoscience -- Study and teaching -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Experiential learning -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Experiential learning -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Education -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1402 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001874
- Description: The constructivist world view is advocated in the Namibian National Curriculum for Basic Education (NNCBE, 2010) since it encourages teachers to use different knowledge sources. This perspective embraces a multicultural approach to science teaching and learning. Indigenous knowledge (IK) and western science (WS) are some of the knowledge sources that are advocated. Yet, it has been noted that some science textbooks used in school science curricula do not consider IK. It is often diminished and considered of lesser value. The sole use of WS in teaching and learning is often distant from IK sources which can be used as prior knowledge. In this study, I therefore endeavoured to minimize this gap in the science curriculum. Essentially, the study focused on investigating trainee teachers’ engagement with prior everyday knowledge and experiences of natural phenomena in teaching physical science concepts. The rationale behind the study emerged while I was supervising twelve trainee teachers on school based studies (SBS) in the Caprivi Region. Observations revealed that learners frequently asked trainee teachers to relate their IK to WS to contextualize what they were learning. However, most trainee teachers seemed to experience challenges. This pedagogical gap and challenge was investigated using the instruments below. An analysis was done on the Namibian National Curriculum for Basic Education (NNCBE, 2010), extracts of research papers and a chapters on pressure in physical science textbooks. A worksheet was used to orientate trainee teachers with suggestions on how IK could be fused with WS to contextualize teaching and learning. Thereafter, this was followed by the simultaneous use of brainstorming and audio-visual techniques. Base line instruments paved the way for the main data generating techniques; namely, microteaching, audio-visual techniques, critical partners’ observation and focus group interview. There was triangulation of data collection instruments which enhanced validation followed by tabulation and data collation to develop themes. Analysis entailed checking theme repetition, indigenous categories and key words in context techniques. Themes enabled the construction of analytical statements which were discussed with reference to the relevant literature, theory and subsequently aligned to the research questions. Findings from this study include the suggestions that IK can be incorporated into teaching and learning of science concepts through the use of models or practical activities, science language used in the community and some cultural artifacts. The relevance of incorporating such type of knowledge is to contextualize science teaching and learning. The study therefore concluded that the incorporation of IK into teaching and learning of science concepts; (a) broadens the curriculum as it addresses conceptual progression and cohesion; (b) contextualizes concepts taught; (c) empowers teachers to use a practical curriculum and (d) it also creates space for misconceptions that come with IK to be identified and corrected. The study thus recommends that cultural artifacts and the social science jargon used in the community of the trainee teachers can be used to incorporate IK with WS as these types of knowledge are not mutually exclusive but in fact complement one another.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mukwambo, Muzwangowenyu
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Ethnoscience -- Study and teaching -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Experiential learning -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Experiential learning -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Case studies Education -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1402 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001874
- Description: The constructivist world view is advocated in the Namibian National Curriculum for Basic Education (NNCBE, 2010) since it encourages teachers to use different knowledge sources. This perspective embraces a multicultural approach to science teaching and learning. Indigenous knowledge (IK) and western science (WS) are some of the knowledge sources that are advocated. Yet, it has been noted that some science textbooks used in school science curricula do not consider IK. It is often diminished and considered of lesser value. The sole use of WS in teaching and learning is often distant from IK sources which can be used as prior knowledge. In this study, I therefore endeavoured to minimize this gap in the science curriculum. Essentially, the study focused on investigating trainee teachers’ engagement with prior everyday knowledge and experiences of natural phenomena in teaching physical science concepts. The rationale behind the study emerged while I was supervising twelve trainee teachers on school based studies (SBS) in the Caprivi Region. Observations revealed that learners frequently asked trainee teachers to relate their IK to WS to contextualize what they were learning. However, most trainee teachers seemed to experience challenges. This pedagogical gap and challenge was investigated using the instruments below. An analysis was done on the Namibian National Curriculum for Basic Education (NNCBE, 2010), extracts of research papers and a chapters on pressure in physical science textbooks. A worksheet was used to orientate trainee teachers with suggestions on how IK could be fused with WS to contextualize teaching and learning. Thereafter, this was followed by the simultaneous use of brainstorming and audio-visual techniques. Base line instruments paved the way for the main data generating techniques; namely, microteaching, audio-visual techniques, critical partners’ observation and focus group interview. There was triangulation of data collection instruments which enhanced validation followed by tabulation and data collation to develop themes. Analysis entailed checking theme repetition, indigenous categories and key words in context techniques. Themes enabled the construction of analytical statements which were discussed with reference to the relevant literature, theory and subsequently aligned to the research questions. Findings from this study include the suggestions that IK can be incorporated into teaching and learning of science concepts through the use of models or practical activities, science language used in the community and some cultural artifacts. The relevance of incorporating such type of knowledge is to contextualize science teaching and learning. The study therefore concluded that the incorporation of IK into teaching and learning of science concepts; (a) broadens the curriculum as it addresses conceptual progression and cohesion; (b) contextualizes concepts taught; (c) empowers teachers to use a practical curriculum and (d) it also creates space for misconceptions that come with IK to be identified and corrected. The study thus recommends that cultural artifacts and the social science jargon used in the community of the trainee teachers can be used to incorporate IK with WS as these types of knowledge are not mutually exclusive but in fact complement one another.
- Full Text:
Understandings of citizenship in policy and amongst matric learners in three KwaZulu Natal schools
- Authors: Van Lelyveld, Lara Diane
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Citizenship -- Study and teaching -- Kwazulu-Natal (South Africa) Citizenship -- Social aspects -- Kwazulu-Natal (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006116
- Description: This thesis explores the difference between the vision of citizenship within education policy and the actual experiences and understandings of citizenship by Matric learners. Citizenship as envisioned in policy is shown to differ significantly to citizenship as understood and experienced by the interview participants. The citizenship envisioned in policy presents the goal of an equal and united citizenry whereas interview participants described citizenship as unequal and hierarchical. In particular, the racial hierarchy enforced under Apartheid was found to dominate the learners’ experiences of citizenship. Despite progressive legislation, distribution of opportunities remains heavily weighted in favour of those in high-income environments. Education policies that determine the overall structure of the South African education system were selected for analysis. These are the Constitution, the South African Schools Act and the National Education Policy Act. These policies are analysed and a vision of South African citizenship is described as possessing the following characteristics. A common, equal citizenship in a united and transformed South Africa. A citizenship encouraging and mandating critical engagement, dialogue, openness and transparency. A citizenship founded on quality of life for all and developing the potential of each individual. A citizenship in which both state and citizen are responsible and accountable and operate within the rule of law. A citizenship underpinned by human dignity and freedom and security of the person. A citizenship in which there is respect for difference and self-determination and in which ‘unity in diversity’ plays a key role. Matric learners were drawn from three different schools in an area of Kwazulu-Natal. Each of these schools represents a ‘type’ of school in South Africa: a former Model C school, an independent school and a school based in a rural or township area. The interviews aimed not only to understand citizenship from the perspective of these learners, but also to understand how experiences of citizenship varied depending on race, gender and class.
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- Authors: Van Lelyveld, Lara Diane
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Citizenship -- Study and teaching -- Kwazulu-Natal (South Africa) Citizenship -- Social aspects -- Kwazulu-Natal (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006116
- Description: This thesis explores the difference between the vision of citizenship within education policy and the actual experiences and understandings of citizenship by Matric learners. Citizenship as envisioned in policy is shown to differ significantly to citizenship as understood and experienced by the interview participants. The citizenship envisioned in policy presents the goal of an equal and united citizenry whereas interview participants described citizenship as unequal and hierarchical. In particular, the racial hierarchy enforced under Apartheid was found to dominate the learners’ experiences of citizenship. Despite progressive legislation, distribution of opportunities remains heavily weighted in favour of those in high-income environments. Education policies that determine the overall structure of the South African education system were selected for analysis. These are the Constitution, the South African Schools Act and the National Education Policy Act. These policies are analysed and a vision of South African citizenship is described as possessing the following characteristics. A common, equal citizenship in a united and transformed South Africa. A citizenship encouraging and mandating critical engagement, dialogue, openness and transparency. A citizenship founded on quality of life for all and developing the potential of each individual. A citizenship in which both state and citizen are responsible and accountable and operate within the rule of law. A citizenship underpinned by human dignity and freedom and security of the person. A citizenship in which there is respect for difference and self-determination and in which ‘unity in diversity’ plays a key role. Matric learners were drawn from three different schools in an area of Kwazulu-Natal. Each of these schools represents a ‘type’ of school in South Africa: a former Model C school, an independent school and a school based in a rural or township area. The interviews aimed not only to understand citizenship from the perspective of these learners, but also to understand how experiences of citizenship varied depending on race, gender and class.
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Unearthing the essence of nature and the perception of the natural landscape among the amaXhosa in the Eastern Cape : an exploratory study
- Authors: Mogano, Lydia Lehlogonolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Biodiversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Cultural pluralism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007742
- Description: The recognition of the close link between the lifestyles of 'indigenous' and 'local' people and biodiversity is widely acknowledged as crucial, not only for the survival of biological diversity but also for the protection of cultural diversity. Most discussions centre on the argument that cultural diversity can, through a wide variety of uses and practices, sustain and conserve biodiversity, particularly in many developing countries. However, local people's relationship with natural landscapes and the extent to which they value biodiversity has not been fully explored and is in most cases misunderstood, which in fact undermines the bio-cultural diversity link. This misunderstanding exists primarily because the majority of environmental or ecological research conducted so far has been oriented towards economic valuation, in quantifying the estimated value of plants and fauna utilised by local people. As a result, biodiversity is primarily treated as a commodity, with wild harvested plant products being classified as either having subsistence, or commercial and medicinal value. This approach is narrow and conceals the critical, profound noneconomic values of biodiversity among local communities in everyday life. Literature indicates that biodiversity and natural landscapes also include less tangible values such as spiritual, cultural, psychological and social values (e.g., sense of place, place attachment, and psychologically restorative effects) which are crucial to human well-being. This suggests that human-nature interaction is complex, and that the meanings and values that people ascribe to natural landscapes cannot be solely reduced to economic values. Nevertheless, to date, studies investigating these less tangible values have received little attention in South Africa. As a result, we have very little understanding of what local and indigenous communities value or appreciate with regard to natural landscapes, beyond their general economic significance. This study seeks to address this particular limitation by exploring non-economic values of natural landscapes and their significances to local people while illuminating the complexities inherent in human-nature interactions. I argue that the purely economic valuation of natural resources is simplistic and biased, and therefore does not represent the complete meaning and significance that natural resources may hold for local communities and households. Therefore, this study takes an innovative psychological approach to explore in detail the everyday lived experiences of the amaXhosa in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It seeks to investigate the cultural, spiritual, and psychological values that ordinary people attach to natural landscapes in the peri-urban and urban communities of Ndlambe Village l and Grahamstown respectively. This research also aims to study the general perceptions of and meanings ascribed to the natural landscape (referred to by the amaXhosa as ihlathi lesiXhosa). In addition, it carefully integrates the Phenomenological and Transactional approaches to investigate how the amaXhosa engage, interact, and find meaning within the natural landscape. Furthermore, the study explores the impact of such landscape experiences on local people's spiritual and psychological well-being, demonstrating it link to bio-cultural diversity and conservation. The major findings in this study reflect that ihlathi lesiXhosa provides a place for peace and tranquillity to enhance psychological restoration. Moreover, ihlathi contributes towards redefining and strengthening personal and cultural identity; and provides spiritual satisfaction in everyday life. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that i!liathi lesiXhosa plays a profound role in both the personal and social lives of many amaXhosa in the Eastern Cape in that it appears to improve their lives. Therefore, the evidence in this study suggests that, among the amaXhosa, biodiversity and natural landscape management processes should not aim to address and promote ecologicallbiological and economic values in a compartmentalized manner independent of other social, cultural, psychological, and more specifically the spiritual values of these features. An increased understanding of these more intangible values and local people's value system of biodiversity could help towards implementing improved biodiversity conservation and landscape management strategies in South Africa. These insights would not only help us to address the challenges of the previous conservation framework but would also encourage a more inclusive, mutual benefiting process that respects local people's values and needs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mogano, Lydia Lehlogonolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Biodiversity conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Cultural pluralism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007742
- Description: The recognition of the close link between the lifestyles of 'indigenous' and 'local' people and biodiversity is widely acknowledged as crucial, not only for the survival of biological diversity but also for the protection of cultural diversity. Most discussions centre on the argument that cultural diversity can, through a wide variety of uses and practices, sustain and conserve biodiversity, particularly in many developing countries. However, local people's relationship with natural landscapes and the extent to which they value biodiversity has not been fully explored and is in most cases misunderstood, which in fact undermines the bio-cultural diversity link. This misunderstanding exists primarily because the majority of environmental or ecological research conducted so far has been oriented towards economic valuation, in quantifying the estimated value of plants and fauna utilised by local people. As a result, biodiversity is primarily treated as a commodity, with wild harvested plant products being classified as either having subsistence, or commercial and medicinal value. This approach is narrow and conceals the critical, profound noneconomic values of biodiversity among local communities in everyday life. Literature indicates that biodiversity and natural landscapes also include less tangible values such as spiritual, cultural, psychological and social values (e.g., sense of place, place attachment, and psychologically restorative effects) which are crucial to human well-being. This suggests that human-nature interaction is complex, and that the meanings and values that people ascribe to natural landscapes cannot be solely reduced to economic values. Nevertheless, to date, studies investigating these less tangible values have received little attention in South Africa. As a result, we have very little understanding of what local and indigenous communities value or appreciate with regard to natural landscapes, beyond their general economic significance. This study seeks to address this particular limitation by exploring non-economic values of natural landscapes and their significances to local people while illuminating the complexities inherent in human-nature interactions. I argue that the purely economic valuation of natural resources is simplistic and biased, and therefore does not represent the complete meaning and significance that natural resources may hold for local communities and households. Therefore, this study takes an innovative psychological approach to explore in detail the everyday lived experiences of the amaXhosa in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It seeks to investigate the cultural, spiritual, and psychological values that ordinary people attach to natural landscapes in the peri-urban and urban communities of Ndlambe Village l and Grahamstown respectively. This research also aims to study the general perceptions of and meanings ascribed to the natural landscape (referred to by the amaXhosa as ihlathi lesiXhosa). In addition, it carefully integrates the Phenomenological and Transactional approaches to investigate how the amaXhosa engage, interact, and find meaning within the natural landscape. Furthermore, the study explores the impact of such landscape experiences on local people's spiritual and psychological well-being, demonstrating it link to bio-cultural diversity and conservation. The major findings in this study reflect that ihlathi lesiXhosa provides a place for peace and tranquillity to enhance psychological restoration. Moreover, ihlathi contributes towards redefining and strengthening personal and cultural identity; and provides spiritual satisfaction in everyday life. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that i!liathi lesiXhosa plays a profound role in both the personal and social lives of many amaXhosa in the Eastern Cape in that it appears to improve their lives. Therefore, the evidence in this study suggests that, among the amaXhosa, biodiversity and natural landscape management processes should not aim to address and promote ecologicallbiological and economic values in a compartmentalized manner independent of other social, cultural, psychological, and more specifically the spiritual values of these features. An increased understanding of these more intangible values and local people's value system of biodiversity could help towards implementing improved biodiversity conservation and landscape management strategies in South Africa. These insights would not only help us to address the challenges of the previous conservation framework but would also encourage a more inclusive, mutual benefiting process that respects local people's values and needs.
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Unicorn: A unified communication solution for marginalized communities
- Nyathi, Okelitsi, Terzoli, Alfredo, Tsietsi, Mosiuoa
- Authors: Nyathi, Okelitsi , Terzoli, Alfredo , Tsietsi, Mosiuoa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/430666 , vital:72707 , 10.1109/ICASTech.2013.6707506
- Description: The convergence of previously distinct networks into an All-IP network has resulted in an increase in the number and diversity of devices, channels and communication networks available to users. This has increased the number commu-nication options available and is evidenced by the number of different communication devices owned and services subscribed to. How-ever, this has created complexities that call for proper methods to manage these diverse and in-compatible communication options. The objective of Unified Communication (UC) is to seamlessly integrate the dispar-ate communication channels into a device independent plat-form that can easily be managed by users. Due its focus on a largely urban and highly connected market, UC has not benefited marginalized communities. This paper discusses the design and implementation of Unicorn, a UC solution for a middleware software platform called Teleweaver which was designed to support the development of services for marginalized communities. The solution integrates services from a telecommunication container called Mobicents. It seamlessly amalgamates voice, data and video onto one device independent unified platform easily accessible by users.
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- Authors: Nyathi, Okelitsi , Terzoli, Alfredo , Tsietsi, Mosiuoa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/430666 , vital:72707 , 10.1109/ICASTech.2013.6707506
- Description: The convergence of previously distinct networks into an All-IP network has resulted in an increase in the number and diversity of devices, channels and communication networks available to users. This has increased the number commu-nication options available and is evidenced by the number of different communication devices owned and services subscribed to. How-ever, this has created complexities that call for proper methods to manage these diverse and in-compatible communication options. The objective of Unified Communication (UC) is to seamlessly integrate the dispar-ate communication channels into a device independent plat-form that can easily be managed by users. Due its focus on a largely urban and highly connected market, UC has not benefited marginalized communities. This paper discusses the design and implementation of Unicorn, a UC solution for a middleware software platform called Teleweaver which was designed to support the development of services for marginalized communities. The solution integrates services from a telecommunication container called Mobicents. It seamlessly amalgamates voice, data and video onto one device independent unified platform easily accessible by users.
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Updating the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global model using the neural network technique and relevant geophysical input parameters
- Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Authors: Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001609 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Description: This thesis presents an update to the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global empirical model developed by Oyeyemi et al. (2007) (NNO). An additional aim of this research was to produce the updated model in a form that could be used within the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) global model without adding to the complexity of the IRI. M(3000)F2 is the highest frequency at which a radio signal can be received over a distance of 3000 km after reflection in the ionosphere. The study employed the artificial neural network (ANN) technique using relevant geophysical input parameters which are known to influence the M(3000)F2 parameter. Ionosonde data from 135 ionospheric stations globally, including a number of equatorial stations, were available for this work. M(3000)F2 hourly values from 1976 to 2008, spanning all periods of low and high solar activity were used for model development and verification. A preliminary investigation was first carried out using a relatively small dataset to determine the appropriate input parameters for global M(3000)F2 parameter modelling. Inputs representing diurnal variation, seasonal variation, solar variation, modified dip latitude, longitude and latitude were found to be the optimum parameters for modelling the diurnal and seasonal variations of the M(3000)F2 parameter both on a temporal and spatial basis. The outcome of the preliminary study was applied to the overall dataset to develop a comprehensive ANN M(3000)F2 model which displays a remarkable improvement over the NNO model as well as the IRI version. The model shows 7.11% and 3.85% improvement over the NNO model as well as 13.04% and 10.05% over the IRI M(3000)F2 model, around high and low solar activity periods respectively. A comparison of the diurnal structure of the ANN and the IRI predicted values reveal that the ANN model is more effective in representing the diurnal structure of the M(3000)F2 values than the IRI M(3000)F2 model. The capability of the ANN model in reproducing the seasonal variation pattern of the M(3000)F2 values at 00h00UT, 06h00UT, 12h00UT, and l8h00UT more appropriately than the IRI version is illustrated in this work. A significant result obtained in this study is the ability of the ANN model in improving the post-sunset predicted values of the M(3000)F2 parameter which is known to be problematic to the IRI M(3000)F2 model in the low-latitude and the equatorial regions. The final M(3000)F2 model provides for an improved equatorial prediction and a simplified input space that allows for easy incorporation into the IRI model.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001609 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Description: This thesis presents an update to the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global empirical model developed by Oyeyemi et al. (2007) (NNO). An additional aim of this research was to produce the updated model in a form that could be used within the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) global model without adding to the complexity of the IRI. M(3000)F2 is the highest frequency at which a radio signal can be received over a distance of 3000 km after reflection in the ionosphere. The study employed the artificial neural network (ANN) technique using relevant geophysical input parameters which are known to influence the M(3000)F2 parameter. Ionosonde data from 135 ionospheric stations globally, including a number of equatorial stations, were available for this work. M(3000)F2 hourly values from 1976 to 2008, spanning all periods of low and high solar activity were used for model development and verification. A preliminary investigation was first carried out using a relatively small dataset to determine the appropriate input parameters for global M(3000)F2 parameter modelling. Inputs representing diurnal variation, seasonal variation, solar variation, modified dip latitude, longitude and latitude were found to be the optimum parameters for modelling the diurnal and seasonal variations of the M(3000)F2 parameter both on a temporal and spatial basis. The outcome of the preliminary study was applied to the overall dataset to develop a comprehensive ANN M(3000)F2 model which displays a remarkable improvement over the NNO model as well as the IRI version. The model shows 7.11% and 3.85% improvement over the NNO model as well as 13.04% and 10.05% over the IRI M(3000)F2 model, around high and low solar activity periods respectively. A comparison of the diurnal structure of the ANN and the IRI predicted values reveal that the ANN model is more effective in representing the diurnal structure of the M(3000)F2 values than the IRI M(3000)F2 model. The capability of the ANN model in reproducing the seasonal variation pattern of the M(3000)F2 values at 00h00UT, 06h00UT, 12h00UT, and l8h00UT more appropriately than the IRI version is illustrated in this work. A significant result obtained in this study is the ability of the ANN model in improving the post-sunset predicted values of the M(3000)F2 parameter which is known to be problematic to the IRI M(3000)F2 model in the low-latitude and the equatorial regions. The final M(3000)F2 model provides for an improved equatorial prediction and a simplified input space that allows for easy incorporation into the IRI model.
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Use of bioindicators and biomarkers to assess aquatic environmental contamination in selected urban wetlands in Uganda
- Authors: Naigaga, Irene
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Indicators (Biology) Biochemical markers Environmental monitoring -- Uganda Water quality biological assessment -- Uganda Water -- Pollution -- Uganda Wetlands -- Monitoring -- Uganda Wetland management -- Uganda Aquatic resources -- Uganda Aquatic resources conservation -- Uganda Aquatic resources -- Management -- Uganda Fishes -- Histopathaology -- Uganda Urban ecology (Biology) -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002603
- Description: Pollution of aquatic resources in Uganda is on the increase and the trends are expected to increase with increase in population size and urbanisation. Assessment and mitigation of the environmental impacts on water quality and biodiversity have now become necessary. The aim of the study was to integrate invertebrate and fish as bioindicators and fish histopathology as a biomarker in the assessment of water quality deterioration in urban wetlands in Uganda. The integration harnesses the advantages and counteracts the shortcomings of each method and thus builds a more robust diagnostic tool that gives a better view of the impacts to the entire ecosystem. Four endpoints which included, physicochemical variables, benthic macroinvertebrate bioindicators, fish bioindicators and fish histopathology biomarkers were compared between varied effluent-impacted wetlands (Murchison Bay in Kampala, and Kirinya, Masese and Winday Bay in Jinja) and a non-impacted reference wetland (Lwanika in Mayuge). Results from the effluent-impacted sites differed from the less impacted reference site. The two sampling locations at Murchison Bay (inshore and offshore) and one sampling location at Kirinya (inshore), that were highly impacted with urban effluent, showed elevated nutrient levels, low pH, dissolved oxygen and secchi depth readings. This corresponded with low invertebrate taxa and fish species diversity and richness; and severe histopathological responses in liver, gonads and gills of O. niloticus. Sensitive taxa such as ephemeroptera and trichoptera were completely absent while pollution tolerant taxa Chironomus sp, Corbicula and Oligochaeta were present. Also notable was the absence of many native haplochromines and presence of mainly Brycinus sadleri, Oreochromis niloticus and leucostictus. The organs manifested high prevalence of severe inflammatory and regressive changes and higher organ indices that fell within the pathological category. These sites were consistently classified as highly polluted under the four endpoints. The reference site was classified as least polluted while Masese and Winday Bay were moderately polluted. Results suggested that the approach of using invertebrate and fish as bioindicators and the fish histopathology as a biomarker, in relation to water quality physicochemical variables was a useful tool in highlighting the spatial differences in environmental quality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Naigaga, Irene
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Indicators (Biology) Biochemical markers Environmental monitoring -- Uganda Water quality biological assessment -- Uganda Water -- Pollution -- Uganda Wetlands -- Monitoring -- Uganda Wetland management -- Uganda Aquatic resources -- Uganda Aquatic resources conservation -- Uganda Aquatic resources -- Management -- Uganda Fishes -- Histopathaology -- Uganda Urban ecology (Biology) -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002603
- Description: Pollution of aquatic resources in Uganda is on the increase and the trends are expected to increase with increase in population size and urbanisation. Assessment and mitigation of the environmental impacts on water quality and biodiversity have now become necessary. The aim of the study was to integrate invertebrate and fish as bioindicators and fish histopathology as a biomarker in the assessment of water quality deterioration in urban wetlands in Uganda. The integration harnesses the advantages and counteracts the shortcomings of each method and thus builds a more robust diagnostic tool that gives a better view of the impacts to the entire ecosystem. Four endpoints which included, physicochemical variables, benthic macroinvertebrate bioindicators, fish bioindicators and fish histopathology biomarkers were compared between varied effluent-impacted wetlands (Murchison Bay in Kampala, and Kirinya, Masese and Winday Bay in Jinja) and a non-impacted reference wetland (Lwanika in Mayuge). Results from the effluent-impacted sites differed from the less impacted reference site. The two sampling locations at Murchison Bay (inshore and offshore) and one sampling location at Kirinya (inshore), that were highly impacted with urban effluent, showed elevated nutrient levels, low pH, dissolved oxygen and secchi depth readings. This corresponded with low invertebrate taxa and fish species diversity and richness; and severe histopathological responses in liver, gonads and gills of O. niloticus. Sensitive taxa such as ephemeroptera and trichoptera were completely absent while pollution tolerant taxa Chironomus sp, Corbicula and Oligochaeta were present. Also notable was the absence of many native haplochromines and presence of mainly Brycinus sadleri, Oreochromis niloticus and leucostictus. The organs manifested high prevalence of severe inflammatory and regressive changes and higher organ indices that fell within the pathological category. These sites were consistently classified as highly polluted under the four endpoints. The reference site was classified as least polluted while Masese and Winday Bay were moderately polluted. Results suggested that the approach of using invertebrate and fish as bioindicators and the fish histopathology as a biomarker, in relation to water quality physicochemical variables was a useful tool in highlighting the spatial differences in environmental quality.
- Full Text: