A holistic investigation of amateur batters performance responses to a century protocol: a focused cognitive perspective
- Authors: Goble, David
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cricket -- Batting -- Physiological aspects , Cricket players -- Physiology , Cricket players -- Health and hygiene , Cognition -- Testing , Neurophysiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/40725 , vital:25020
- Description: No cognitive study has implemented an exercise modality that requires both physical effort and cognitive control, therefore, the effects of such exercise are unknown. Additionally, no studies have investigated how prolonged batting impacts cognitive functioning nor how physical responses and cognitive functioning are related while batting. At intensities of 6070 percent heart rate maximum, acute and prolonged bouts of physical activity have been shown to improve cognitive functioning. At higher intensities, the beneficial effects are minimal and in some cases performance is impaired. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to determine how prolonged intermittent batting (a task that requires high muscular and cardiovascular loads but also continuous cognitive control) affects cognitive, physiological, physical and biophysical responses in amateur batters. Further aims included to test the reliability of the method employed in assessing these responses. To answer this question, the investigation was separated into three studies: phase 1 (a large-scale pilot) and phase 2 and 3 (a repeated measures test-retest hypothesis). In each phase, batters completed the 30 over BATEX simulation, which replicated the demands of scoring a one-day international century. To establish physiological, physical and perceptual strain; heart rate, sprint times and perceived exertion data were collected each over. Changes in body mass over time were compared to determine the effects of fluid loss on cognitive performance. Before, during and after the simulation, psychomotor function, visual attention, working memory, visual learning and memory as well as executive functions were assessed (CogState brief test battery). During cognitive assessments, heart rate and heart rate variability parameters were sampled so that autonomic modulation of the heart could be determined. The methodological differences between phase 1 and phase 2 and 3, were (respectively); the frequency of cognitive assessments (five vs. three), the samples used (15 schoolboy vs. 16 academy batters), hydration protocols (250ml of Energade vs. water ad libitum) and a singular change in a physical dependent variable (batting accuracy vs. vertical jump). In schoolboy and academy batters, the prolonged batting simulation placed significant strain on the cardiovascular and muscular subsystems; increasing heart rate (p<0.01), decreasing body mass (p<0.01) and deteriorating sprint performance (p<0.01) over time. In each sample, batters’ perceived exertion increased significantly (p<0.01) and exertion was highest in the final over of the protocol. Interestingly, the changes in cardiovascular and muscular responses were larger in schoolboy batters. While the cognitive performance decrements over time were not significant in academy batters (p>0.05; d<0.2), the magnitude of impairment in psychomotor function (p>0.05; d = 0.37), visual attention (p>0.05; d = 0.56), working memory (p>0.05; d = 0.61) and executive function (p>0.05; d = 0.58) was larger in schoolboy batters. In both samples, the simulation altered the modulation of heart rate significantly. Heart rate variability decreased linearly with time spent batting (p<0.01; d>0.8). During cognitive assessments, heart rate variability increased with time-on-task, where responses were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the last task of the battery compared to the first. Importantly, the results of the retest phase were the same as in the test phase and only two condition effects were observed; (i) heart rate (retest lower: p<0.04;d = 0.39), (ii) body mass (retest lower: p<0.03;d = 0.09). A task-related condition effect in heart rate variability (PNN30) was also observed (retest higher: p<0.03; d = not calculated). Resultantly, the test-retest reliability of phase 2 and 3 was high. The results indicate that prolonged intermittent batting at an intensity of 64-77 %HRmax impaired cognitive functioning in amateur batters. However, the cardiovascular and muscular strain induced by prolonged intermittent batting and its effects on cognitive functioning are mediated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors (age, training status, playing experience and hydration). Therefore, while prolonged batting has similar effects on cognitive functioning as acute bouts of physical activity, they do not share the same relationship. The author hypothesises that the continuous cognitive component inherent in prolonged batting mitigates the beneficial effects of physical activity, as demonstrated previously. Future research is needed to elucidate this relationship. Additionally, player experience affects the way in which batters regulate performance while batting; which also affects the rate of and magnitude of impairment during batting. Finally, the methodological limitations of this study provide direction for future research into batting.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Goble, David
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cricket -- Batting -- Physiological aspects , Cricket players -- Physiology , Cricket players -- Health and hygiene , Cognition -- Testing , Neurophysiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/40725 , vital:25020
- Description: No cognitive study has implemented an exercise modality that requires both physical effort and cognitive control, therefore, the effects of such exercise are unknown. Additionally, no studies have investigated how prolonged batting impacts cognitive functioning nor how physical responses and cognitive functioning are related while batting. At intensities of 6070 percent heart rate maximum, acute and prolonged bouts of physical activity have been shown to improve cognitive functioning. At higher intensities, the beneficial effects are minimal and in some cases performance is impaired. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to determine how prolonged intermittent batting (a task that requires high muscular and cardiovascular loads but also continuous cognitive control) affects cognitive, physiological, physical and biophysical responses in amateur batters. Further aims included to test the reliability of the method employed in assessing these responses. To answer this question, the investigation was separated into three studies: phase 1 (a large-scale pilot) and phase 2 and 3 (a repeated measures test-retest hypothesis). In each phase, batters completed the 30 over BATEX simulation, which replicated the demands of scoring a one-day international century. To establish physiological, physical and perceptual strain; heart rate, sprint times and perceived exertion data were collected each over. Changes in body mass over time were compared to determine the effects of fluid loss on cognitive performance. Before, during and after the simulation, psychomotor function, visual attention, working memory, visual learning and memory as well as executive functions were assessed (CogState brief test battery). During cognitive assessments, heart rate and heart rate variability parameters were sampled so that autonomic modulation of the heart could be determined. The methodological differences between phase 1 and phase 2 and 3, were (respectively); the frequency of cognitive assessments (five vs. three), the samples used (15 schoolboy vs. 16 academy batters), hydration protocols (250ml of Energade vs. water ad libitum) and a singular change in a physical dependent variable (batting accuracy vs. vertical jump). In schoolboy and academy batters, the prolonged batting simulation placed significant strain on the cardiovascular and muscular subsystems; increasing heart rate (p<0.01), decreasing body mass (p<0.01) and deteriorating sprint performance (p<0.01) over time. In each sample, batters’ perceived exertion increased significantly (p<0.01) and exertion was highest in the final over of the protocol. Interestingly, the changes in cardiovascular and muscular responses were larger in schoolboy batters. While the cognitive performance decrements over time were not significant in academy batters (p>0.05; d<0.2), the magnitude of impairment in psychomotor function (p>0.05; d = 0.37), visual attention (p>0.05; d = 0.56), working memory (p>0.05; d = 0.61) and executive function (p>0.05; d = 0.58) was larger in schoolboy batters. In both samples, the simulation altered the modulation of heart rate significantly. Heart rate variability decreased linearly with time spent batting (p<0.01; d>0.8). During cognitive assessments, heart rate variability increased with time-on-task, where responses were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the last task of the battery compared to the first. Importantly, the results of the retest phase were the same as in the test phase and only two condition effects were observed; (i) heart rate (retest lower: p<0.04;d = 0.39), (ii) body mass (retest lower: p<0.03;d = 0.09). A task-related condition effect in heart rate variability (PNN30) was also observed (retest higher: p<0.03; d = not calculated). Resultantly, the test-retest reliability of phase 2 and 3 was high. The results indicate that prolonged intermittent batting at an intensity of 64-77 %HRmax impaired cognitive functioning in amateur batters. However, the cardiovascular and muscular strain induced by prolonged intermittent batting and its effects on cognitive functioning are mediated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors (age, training status, playing experience and hydration). Therefore, while prolonged batting has similar effects on cognitive functioning as acute bouts of physical activity, they do not share the same relationship. The author hypothesises that the continuous cognitive component inherent in prolonged batting mitigates the beneficial effects of physical activity, as demonstrated previously. Future research is needed to elucidate this relationship. Additionally, player experience affects the way in which batters regulate performance while batting; which also affects the rate of and magnitude of impairment during batting. Finally, the methodological limitations of this study provide direction for future research into batting.
- Full Text:
A meteorological analysis of extreme flood events in the southern parts of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Jacobs, Tennielle Lindsay
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Floods -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Floods -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Cast studies , Lows (Meteorology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rain and rainfall -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rainfall anomalies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/50525 , vital:25996
- Description: Extreme flood events have been found to occur in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The southern and south-eastern coastal regions are particularly susceptible to floods with daily rainfall records of up to 490 mm having been recorded here. In order to gain a better understanding of these floods, historical floods in the southern parts of the Eastern Cape have been analysed in this study. This study aimed to investigate the most extreme flood events in the history of the area and to analyse the surface observational data during the heavy rainfall events found, to contribute to the understanding of these heavy rainfall events. Seven case studies were investigated using NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis 1 data and surface observational data, to analysis the synoptic circulation and surface data tendencies during heavy rainfall events. All of the case studies that had synoptic data available showed to have a COL system present with the upper air low lying westward of the flood area. The surface synoptic situation presented an intense high pressure system lying south west or south of the country in the Atlantic Ocean between 35-45°S. Another key factor was a surface trough over the interior of the country, due to the COL, extending southwards to protrude off of the south or south eastern coastline east of the flood areas. The combination of these three systems colloquially referred to as a “Black South-Easter”, produced dangerous rainfall intensities when the winds were perpendicular to the coast. The results of the surface observations revealed temperatures increasing at night (against diurnal cycles) with increasing relative humidity preceding the heavy rainfall events. The pressure showed both increasing and decreasing trends during heavy rainfall events however in five of six cases a tight pressure gradient was present producing an influx of moist air into the flood area. Onshore winds were found to be of high importance in heavy rainfall events to bring moist air into the area. Wind speeds greater than 5m/s occurred during times of high rainfall intensities.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jacobs, Tennielle Lindsay
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Floods -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Floods -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Cast studies , Lows (Meteorology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rain and rainfall -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rainfall anomalies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/50525 , vital:25996
- Description: Extreme flood events have been found to occur in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The southern and south-eastern coastal regions are particularly susceptible to floods with daily rainfall records of up to 490 mm having been recorded here. In order to gain a better understanding of these floods, historical floods in the southern parts of the Eastern Cape have been analysed in this study. This study aimed to investigate the most extreme flood events in the history of the area and to analyse the surface observational data during the heavy rainfall events found, to contribute to the understanding of these heavy rainfall events. Seven case studies were investigated using NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis 1 data and surface observational data, to analysis the synoptic circulation and surface data tendencies during heavy rainfall events. All of the case studies that had synoptic data available showed to have a COL system present with the upper air low lying westward of the flood area. The surface synoptic situation presented an intense high pressure system lying south west or south of the country in the Atlantic Ocean between 35-45°S. Another key factor was a surface trough over the interior of the country, due to the COL, extending southwards to protrude off of the south or south eastern coastline east of the flood areas. The combination of these three systems colloquially referred to as a “Black South-Easter”, produced dangerous rainfall intensities when the winds were perpendicular to the coast. The results of the surface observations revealed temperatures increasing at night (against diurnal cycles) with increasing relative humidity preceding the heavy rainfall events. The pressure showed both increasing and decreasing trends during heavy rainfall events however in five of six cases a tight pressure gradient was present producing an influx of moist air into the flood area. Onshore winds were found to be of high importance in heavy rainfall events to bring moist air into the area. Wind speeds greater than 5m/s occurred during times of high rainfall intensities.
- Full Text:
A moderate elevation in [CO 2] results in potential hypervirulence on SABBIErica
- Gallagher, Sean, Hill, Jaclyn M, Murugan, N, Botha, Christiaan E J
- Authors: Gallagher, Sean , Hill, Jaclyn M , Murugan, N , Botha, Christiaan E J
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68835 , vital:29329 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2017.10.010
- Description: The Russian Wheat Aphid (Diuraphis noxia Kurdjumov, 1913) (RWA) is a serious pest of grain crops and is of considerable concern in South Africa, particularly in terms of barley grown specifically for the brewing industry. This paper highlights the effect of a small (50 ppm) increase in [CO2] on the growth rate of the four South African RWA biotypes on the SABBIErica barley cultivar. Controlled environment experiments revealed that the colony growth rate for RWASA4 was significantly lower than SA1 under ambient conditions as well as significantly lower than SA1, SA2 or SA3 under elevated CO2 conditions. The unexpected difference suggested an atypical, non-preferential feeding habit on SABBIErica, for RWASA4. The small RWASA4 colonies inflicted similar morphological damage to the significantly larger RWASA1 – RWASA3 biotype populations — indicative of potential hypervirulence under elevated CO2. The continuous feeding of RWASA biotypes causes damage to the transport system as well as substantial, catastrophic damage to mesophyll chloroplasts as well as mitochondria within the host plant's leaves. The TEM study revealed evidence of sequential/systematic degeneration of chloroplasts and mitochondria with continued aphid feeding, which we suggest is an indication of potential emergent hypervirulence under elevated CO2 conditions.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Gallagher, Sean , Hill, Jaclyn M , Murugan, N , Botha, Christiaan E J
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68835 , vital:29329 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2017.10.010
- Description: The Russian Wheat Aphid (Diuraphis noxia Kurdjumov, 1913) (RWA) is a serious pest of grain crops and is of considerable concern in South Africa, particularly in terms of barley grown specifically for the brewing industry. This paper highlights the effect of a small (50 ppm) increase in [CO2] on the growth rate of the four South African RWA biotypes on the SABBIErica barley cultivar. Controlled environment experiments revealed that the colony growth rate for RWASA4 was significantly lower than SA1 under ambient conditions as well as significantly lower than SA1, SA2 or SA3 under elevated CO2 conditions. The unexpected difference suggested an atypical, non-preferential feeding habit on SABBIErica, for RWASA4. The small RWASA4 colonies inflicted similar morphological damage to the significantly larger RWASA1 – RWASA3 biotype populations — indicative of potential hypervirulence under elevated CO2. The continuous feeding of RWASA biotypes causes damage to the transport system as well as substantial, catastrophic damage to mesophyll chloroplasts as well as mitochondria within the host plant's leaves. The TEM study revealed evidence of sequential/systematic degeneration of chloroplasts and mitochondria with continued aphid feeding, which we suggest is an indication of potential emergent hypervirulence under elevated CO2 conditions.
- Full Text: false
A narrative, child-participatory study of domestic mobility within grandmother-headed households in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lotter, Jaclyn Oehley
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women heads of households South Africa Eastern Cape , Poor women South Africa Eastern Cape , Migration, Internal South Africa , Poverty South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Economic aspects South Africa , AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , AIDS (Disease) Economic aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7678 , vital:21285
- Description: The movement of adults and children between households in South Africa is a tradition entrenched by apartheid state policies and fuelled by poverty and HIV/AIDS. Children affected by domestic mobility include not only orphans, but those whose families are struggling financially or are deprived of income through illness or death. One example of domestic mobility is the redistribution of children through grandmother-headed households. While domestic mobility has been researched from a number of different academic perspectives, there is scanty psychological literature on the subject, and a gap around children’s experiences of their own mobility. Children’s roles and agency in their mobility, and how these are shaped by their environments, social relations and resilience, are not considered. This research aimed to explore the meanings that domestic mobility had in the lives, identity constructions and personal narratives of South African children currently residing in grandmother-headed households in the Eastern Cape. This was achieved through a narrative approach, interested in big life-stories, as well as small stories of everyday interaction. Over the course of two years, five child participants aged between eight and 12 years constructed narrative material through participatory action research methodologies, including the mapping of time-lines and their lived environments, and photovoice. Child participants and their families were selected from the client-base of a non-governmental organisation, Isibindi (Alice). Narratives were analysed as case studies to tell detailed stories of children’s lives, and to comment on issues associated with domestic mobility, socio-economic status, gender, education, HIV/AIDS and social protection. The study found that blanket definitions of poverty and domestic mobility conceal important variations in levels of poverty and individual experiences of mobility. While children are excluded from processes of decision-making about their mobility, they perform their agency by contributing to household survival and ensuring the continuation of mutually beneficial attachment relationships. This research argues that interventions which act on various systemic levels (macro, meso and exo) add support and protection for vulnerable children. This research also argues for psychological “scaffolding” of potentially traumatic or precarious processes, such as domestic mobility and deaths in families, through caregivers preparing and consulting with children before events happen.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lotter, Jaclyn Oehley
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women heads of households South Africa Eastern Cape , Poor women South Africa Eastern Cape , Migration, Internal South Africa , Poverty South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Economic aspects South Africa , AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , AIDS (Disease) Economic aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7678 , vital:21285
- Description: The movement of adults and children between households in South Africa is a tradition entrenched by apartheid state policies and fuelled by poverty and HIV/AIDS. Children affected by domestic mobility include not only orphans, but those whose families are struggling financially or are deprived of income through illness or death. One example of domestic mobility is the redistribution of children through grandmother-headed households. While domestic mobility has been researched from a number of different academic perspectives, there is scanty psychological literature on the subject, and a gap around children’s experiences of their own mobility. Children’s roles and agency in their mobility, and how these are shaped by their environments, social relations and resilience, are not considered. This research aimed to explore the meanings that domestic mobility had in the lives, identity constructions and personal narratives of South African children currently residing in grandmother-headed households in the Eastern Cape. This was achieved through a narrative approach, interested in big life-stories, as well as small stories of everyday interaction. Over the course of two years, five child participants aged between eight and 12 years constructed narrative material through participatory action research methodologies, including the mapping of time-lines and their lived environments, and photovoice. Child participants and their families were selected from the client-base of a non-governmental organisation, Isibindi (Alice). Narratives were analysed as case studies to tell detailed stories of children’s lives, and to comment on issues associated with domestic mobility, socio-economic status, gender, education, HIV/AIDS and social protection. The study found that blanket definitions of poverty and domestic mobility conceal important variations in levels of poverty and individual experiences of mobility. While children are excluded from processes of decision-making about their mobility, they perform their agency by contributing to household survival and ensuring the continuation of mutually beneficial attachment relationships. This research argues that interventions which act on various systemic levels (macro, meso and exo) add support and protection for vulnerable children. This research also argues for psychological “scaffolding” of potentially traumatic or precarious processes, such as domestic mobility and deaths in families, through caregivers preparing and consulting with children before events happen.
- Full Text:
A netFlow scoring framework for incident detection
- Sweeney, Michael, Irwin, Barry V W
- Authors: Sweeney, Michael , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428301 , vital:72501 , https://researchspace.csir.co.za/dspace/bitstream/handle/10204/9693/Sweeney_19662_2017.pdf?sequence=1andisAllowed=y
- Description: As networks have grown, so has the data available for monitoring and security purposes. This increase in volume has raised significant chal-lenges for administrators in terms of how to identify threats in amongst the large volumes of network traffic, a large part of which is often back-ground noise. In this paper we propose a framework for scoring and coding NetFlow data with security related information. The scores and codes are added through the application of a series of independent tests, each of which may flag some form of suspicious behaviour. The cumulative effect of the scoring and coding raises the more serious po-tential threats to the fore, allowing for quick and effective investigation or action. The framework is presented along with a description of an implementation and some findings that uncover potentially malicious network traffic.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sweeney, Michael , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/428301 , vital:72501 , https://researchspace.csir.co.za/dspace/bitstream/handle/10204/9693/Sweeney_19662_2017.pdf?sequence=1andisAllowed=y
- Description: As networks have grown, so has the data available for monitoring and security purposes. This increase in volume has raised significant chal-lenges for administrators in terms of how to identify threats in amongst the large volumes of network traffic, a large part of which is often back-ground noise. In this paper we propose a framework for scoring and coding NetFlow data with security related information. The scores and codes are added through the application of a series of independent tests, each of which may flag some form of suspicious behaviour. The cumulative effect of the scoring and coding raises the more serious po-tential threats to the fore, allowing for quick and effective investigation or action. The framework is presented along with a description of an implementation and some findings that uncover potentially malicious network traffic.
- Full Text:
A participant-focused sociological analysis of Beedz, a Grahamstown skills training project for women
- Authors: Bobo, Azola Benita Dorothea
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Beedz (Makhanda, South Africa) , Feminist theory -- Developing countries , Training -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Occupational training -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women -- South Africa -- Makhanda -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5686 , vital:20964
- Description: This research looked at a participant-focused sociological analysis of Beedz, a Grahamstown skills training project for women. Beedz is run by the River of Life Church and aims to equip women with the necessary skills to participate in the economy, either as entrepreneurs or as employees. Using third world feminist theory, this research explored the experiences of women who have participated in the Beedz programme, what they went through, and whether the programme benefited them or not. In particular, this research explored how the participants experienced Beedz as a programme for women without an exclusive focus on traditional feminist issues. This research was qualitative in nature; with in-depth, semi-structured interviews being used as a means of data collection. Data was analysed using key themes emerging from the interviews. The key findings of this research were that it is important to include women in training projects, as by including them you create spaces and enabling environments for women to empower themselves. Secondly, although Beedz does not deliberately work from the third world feminist theory, it could be argued that it fits in this framework as this programme facilitates skills training through looking at women as a whole, taking into account not only their gender, but also their class and race. Recommendations were made on how the Beedz programme may be improved, based on the information gathered from the participants from the interviews conducted during the research, with the key recommendation being that the organisers of the programme need to create a space for the participants’ voice to be heard, so that the programme can be relevant and beneficial to them.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bobo, Azola Benita Dorothea
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Beedz (Makhanda, South Africa) , Feminist theory -- Developing countries , Training -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Occupational training -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women -- South Africa -- Makhanda -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5686 , vital:20964
- Description: This research looked at a participant-focused sociological analysis of Beedz, a Grahamstown skills training project for women. Beedz is run by the River of Life Church and aims to equip women with the necessary skills to participate in the economy, either as entrepreneurs or as employees. Using third world feminist theory, this research explored the experiences of women who have participated in the Beedz programme, what they went through, and whether the programme benefited them or not. In particular, this research explored how the participants experienced Beedz as a programme for women without an exclusive focus on traditional feminist issues. This research was qualitative in nature; with in-depth, semi-structured interviews being used as a means of data collection. Data was analysed using key themes emerging from the interviews. The key findings of this research were that it is important to include women in training projects, as by including them you create spaces and enabling environments for women to empower themselves. Secondly, although Beedz does not deliberately work from the third world feminist theory, it could be argued that it fits in this framework as this programme facilitates skills training through looking at women as a whole, taking into account not only their gender, but also their class and race. Recommendations were made on how the Beedz programme may be improved, based on the information gathered from the participants from the interviews conducted during the research, with the key recommendation being that the organisers of the programme need to create a space for the participants’ voice to be heard, so that the programme can be relevant and beneficial to them.
- Full Text:
A perfect end: a study of syllable codas in South African Sign Language
- Köhlo, Mikhaela Demitria Katebe
- Authors: Köhlo, Mikhaela Demitria Katebe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African Sign Language , South African Sign Language Phonology , Linguistics , Grammar, Comparative and general Syllable
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36127 , vital:24492
- Description: Coda constraints are common in spoken languages. German, for example, can only have voiceless obstruents in the coda position (Lombardi 1999). Most sign language research has been on other sign languages, most notably American Sign Language (ASL). This research serves to contribute to syllable theory and has a methodology that allows for cross-linguistic research, strengthening the understanding of sign languages in general, and enhancing the description of SASL in particular. It is well known that syllables in spoken languages require a vowel nucleus to be well-formed. Sandler and Lillo-Martin (2006) provide evidence of sign languages requiring movement to be considered well-formed: even seemingly stationary signs such as WHO, which occurs at the chin, will have finger wiggling as some form of movement. It is thus natural to assume that movement is akin to vowels in syllable theory (Brentari 1998). Thus, locations are similar to consonants. However, the visual nature of sign allows for simultaneity - holds do not occur by themselves. Next to location, handshapes are phonetically complex features that may impact the constraints at coda position. To my knowledge, there is no formal research on the coda constraints of sign language syllables. The data examined here comes from a video dictionary of approximately 175 words. From this dictionary, a database of coded locations and handshapes are recorded for both the onset and the coda. From this, a consonant inventory is made and patterns are identified. Each source of data is analysed individually based on Brentari’s (1998) Prosodic Model. Patterns that are noticed are then looked at using Brentari’s (1998) framework to account for what phonological rules are dictating constraints. However, as a hearing researcher cannot claim native knowledge of a sign language, the conclusions drawn from the data will be tested using native SASL signers for negative judgement. The preliminary findings of the research suggest that there are constraints on the coda location and handshape of a sign and that this may be a result of the natural classes of handshape and location prohibiting certain onset-coda combinations. The onset and coda on monosyllabic signs mirror each other’s location, while the handshape cannot change in repeated and many monosyllabic signs. These constraints provide more understanding into the rich phonological nature of sign languages.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Köhlo, Mikhaela Demitria Katebe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African Sign Language , South African Sign Language Phonology , Linguistics , Grammar, Comparative and general Syllable
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36127 , vital:24492
- Description: Coda constraints are common in spoken languages. German, for example, can only have voiceless obstruents in the coda position (Lombardi 1999). Most sign language research has been on other sign languages, most notably American Sign Language (ASL). This research serves to contribute to syllable theory and has a methodology that allows for cross-linguistic research, strengthening the understanding of sign languages in general, and enhancing the description of SASL in particular. It is well known that syllables in spoken languages require a vowel nucleus to be well-formed. Sandler and Lillo-Martin (2006) provide evidence of sign languages requiring movement to be considered well-formed: even seemingly stationary signs such as WHO, which occurs at the chin, will have finger wiggling as some form of movement. It is thus natural to assume that movement is akin to vowels in syllable theory (Brentari 1998). Thus, locations are similar to consonants. However, the visual nature of sign allows for simultaneity - holds do not occur by themselves. Next to location, handshapes are phonetically complex features that may impact the constraints at coda position. To my knowledge, there is no formal research on the coda constraints of sign language syllables. The data examined here comes from a video dictionary of approximately 175 words. From this dictionary, a database of coded locations and handshapes are recorded for both the onset and the coda. From this, a consonant inventory is made and patterns are identified. Each source of data is analysed individually based on Brentari’s (1998) Prosodic Model. Patterns that are noticed are then looked at using Brentari’s (1998) framework to account for what phonological rules are dictating constraints. However, as a hearing researcher cannot claim native knowledge of a sign language, the conclusions drawn from the data will be tested using native SASL signers for negative judgement. The preliminary findings of the research suggest that there are constraints on the coda location and handshape of a sign and that this may be a result of the natural classes of handshape and location prohibiting certain onset-coda combinations. The onset and coda on monosyllabic signs mirror each other’s location, while the handshape cannot change in repeated and many monosyllabic signs. These constraints provide more understanding into the rich phonological nature of sign languages.
- Full Text:
A perfect end: A study of syllable codas in South African Sign Language
- Köhlo, Mikhaela D.K., Siebörger, Ian, Bennett, William G
- Authors: Köhlo, Mikhaela D.K. , Siebörger, Ian , Bennett, William G
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/385295 , vital:68005 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/splp/article/view/156629"
- Description: South African Sign Language (SASL) is an understudied language with a rich and interesting phonology. For instance, while the language allows onsetless syllables, it does not allow codaless syllables, except in a small class of signs which do not include path movement. This article identifies and defines possible constraints on syllable codas in SASL. Using a video dictionary as data, we have coded handshapes at locations occurring at the onset and coda of the more common signs in the lexicon. In handshape, it has been found that the selected fingers may move to create different handshapes in the coda position, but that these coda handshapes are often [1], [5], [A], [Å] or [S], which are the unmarked handshapes of the non-dominant hand in asymmetrical two-handed signs (Sandler and Lillo-Martin 2006). Furthermore, the joint specification for the selected fingers can also vary in the coda position, but there appear to be strict limitations on which joint combinations are permitted in the onset-coda relationship. There are also constraints on coda location. The major body region can change within a single syllable, and the preferred body regions in the coda position are [body] and [H2]. It is evident not only that handshape and location constraints occur at the coda position, but that these constraints show patterns similar to coda neutralisation in many spoken languages.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Köhlo, Mikhaela D.K. , Siebörger, Ian , Bennett, William G
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/385295 , vital:68005 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/splp/article/view/156629"
- Description: South African Sign Language (SASL) is an understudied language with a rich and interesting phonology. For instance, while the language allows onsetless syllables, it does not allow codaless syllables, except in a small class of signs which do not include path movement. This article identifies and defines possible constraints on syllable codas in SASL. Using a video dictionary as data, we have coded handshapes at locations occurring at the onset and coda of the more common signs in the lexicon. In handshape, it has been found that the selected fingers may move to create different handshapes in the coda position, but that these coda handshapes are often [1], [5], [A], [Å] or [S], which are the unmarked handshapes of the non-dominant hand in asymmetrical two-handed signs (Sandler and Lillo-Martin 2006). Furthermore, the joint specification for the selected fingers can also vary in the coda position, but there appear to be strict limitations on which joint combinations are permitted in the onset-coda relationship. There are also constraints on coda location. The major body region can change within a single syllable, and the preferred body regions in the coda position are [body] and [H2]. It is evident not only that handshape and location constraints occur at the coda position, but that these constraints show patterns similar to coda neutralisation in many spoken languages.
- Full Text:
A political discourse analysis of social memory, collective identity and nation-building in the Sunday Mail and the Standard of Zimbabwe between 1999 and 2013
- Authors: Santos, Phillip
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/41753 , vital:25130
- Description: Although much effort has been expended on studying many sites of social memory, little attention has been directed at the media’s work of memory, especially in post-colonial Africa. The media’s work of memory is important because of its social standing as a communicative and cultural institution, and because social memory is imbricated in processes of both collective identity formation and nation-building which partly shape patterns of economic distribution, recognition, and representation in society. It is in this context that this study shows how Zimbabwe’s The Sunday Mail and The Standard newspapers used social memory to construct the country’s national identity between 1999 and 2013 in the context of a socio-economic and political crisis for the country’s poly-racial, and poly-ethno-linguistic communities. The study also explores how these newspapers worked as memory sites through their construction of Zimbabwe’s national identity during the period under study. It achieves these tasks by analysing how these newspapers reported on such issues as Zimbabwe’s colonial history, the country’s narrative of decolonisation, the Gukurahundi narrative, the land reform process, elections and independence celebrations. The study takes a critical realist approach to qualitative research, and uses Fairclough and Fairclough’s (2012) method of political discourse analysis as well as Aristotle’s approach to rhetoric for a close reading of the sampled newspaper articles. It is informed by Nancy Fraser’s Theory of Justice, Chantal Mouffe’s Model of Agonistic Pluralism, and Jurgen Habermas’s Discourse Ethics Theory. The study concludes that these two newspapers actively use social memory to construct versions of national identity for specific socio-political and economic ends. Editorials and opinions from The Sunday Mail, which construct Zimbabwean-ness in nativist terms represent the hegemonic appropriation of social memory to construct a sense of Zimbabwean nationhood. In contrast, The Standard uses social memory to construct Zimbabwean-ness in modernist terms with citizenship as the core organising principle of belonging. The political discourse analysis of The Sunday Mail’s and The Standard’s evocation of social memory shows that the two newspapers reflect the tension between indigenist and universalist imaginaries of belonging in Zimbabwe. But the newspapers’ construction of belonging in Zimbabwe is informed by justice claims as seen from each of their political standpoints. As such, their respective definitions of Zimbabweans’ justice claims in terms of their political standpoints, also propose how those justice claims should be addressed and who stands to benefit from them.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Santos, Phillip
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/41753 , vital:25130
- Description: Although much effort has been expended on studying many sites of social memory, little attention has been directed at the media’s work of memory, especially in post-colonial Africa. The media’s work of memory is important because of its social standing as a communicative and cultural institution, and because social memory is imbricated in processes of both collective identity formation and nation-building which partly shape patterns of economic distribution, recognition, and representation in society. It is in this context that this study shows how Zimbabwe’s The Sunday Mail and The Standard newspapers used social memory to construct the country’s national identity between 1999 and 2013 in the context of a socio-economic and political crisis for the country’s poly-racial, and poly-ethno-linguistic communities. The study also explores how these newspapers worked as memory sites through their construction of Zimbabwe’s national identity during the period under study. It achieves these tasks by analysing how these newspapers reported on such issues as Zimbabwe’s colonial history, the country’s narrative of decolonisation, the Gukurahundi narrative, the land reform process, elections and independence celebrations. The study takes a critical realist approach to qualitative research, and uses Fairclough and Fairclough’s (2012) method of political discourse analysis as well as Aristotle’s approach to rhetoric for a close reading of the sampled newspaper articles. It is informed by Nancy Fraser’s Theory of Justice, Chantal Mouffe’s Model of Agonistic Pluralism, and Jurgen Habermas’s Discourse Ethics Theory. The study concludes that these two newspapers actively use social memory to construct versions of national identity for specific socio-political and economic ends. Editorials and opinions from The Sunday Mail, which construct Zimbabwean-ness in nativist terms represent the hegemonic appropriation of social memory to construct a sense of Zimbabwean nationhood. In contrast, The Standard uses social memory to construct Zimbabwean-ness in modernist terms with citizenship as the core organising principle of belonging. The political discourse analysis of The Sunday Mail’s and The Standard’s evocation of social memory shows that the two newspapers reflect the tension between indigenist and universalist imaginaries of belonging in Zimbabwe. But the newspapers’ construction of belonging in Zimbabwe is informed by justice claims as seen from each of their political standpoints. As such, their respective definitions of Zimbabweans’ justice claims in terms of their political standpoints, also propose how those justice claims should be addressed and who stands to benefit from them.
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A privacy and security threat assessment framework for consumer health wearables
- Mnjama, Javan, Foster, Greg, Irwin, Barry V W
- Authors: Mnjama, Javan , Foster, Greg , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429217 , vital:72568 , https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8251776
- Description: Health data is important as it provides an individual with knowledge of the factors needed to be improved for oneself. The development of fitness trackers and their associated software aid consumers to understand the manner in which they may improve their physical wellness. These devices are capable of collecting health data for a consumer such sleeping patterns, heart rate readings or the number of steps taken by an individual. Although, this information is very beneficial to guide a consumer to a better healthier state, it has been identified that they have privacy and security concerns. Privacy and Security are of great concern for fitness trackers and their associated applications as protecting health data is of critical importance. This is so, as health data is one of the highly sort after information by cyber criminals. Fitness trackers and their associated applications have been identified to contain privacy and security concerns that places the health data of consumers at risk to intruders. As the study of Consumer Health continues to grow it is vital to understand the elements that are needed to better protect the health information of a consumer. This research paper therefore provides a conceptual threat assessment framework that can be used to identify the elements needed to better secure Consumer Health Wearables. These elements consist of six core elements from the CIA triad and Microsoft STRIDE framework. Fourteen vulnerabilities were further discovered that were classified within these six core elements. Through this, better guidance can be achieved to improve the privacy and security of Consumer Health Wearables.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mnjama, Javan , Foster, Greg , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429217 , vital:72568 , https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8251776
- Description: Health data is important as it provides an individual with knowledge of the factors needed to be improved for oneself. The development of fitness trackers and their associated software aid consumers to understand the manner in which they may improve their physical wellness. These devices are capable of collecting health data for a consumer such sleeping patterns, heart rate readings or the number of steps taken by an individual. Although, this information is very beneficial to guide a consumer to a better healthier state, it has been identified that they have privacy and security concerns. Privacy and Security are of great concern for fitness trackers and their associated applications as protecting health data is of critical importance. This is so, as health data is one of the highly sort after information by cyber criminals. Fitness trackers and their associated applications have been identified to contain privacy and security concerns that places the health data of consumers at risk to intruders. As the study of Consumer Health continues to grow it is vital to understand the elements that are needed to better protect the health information of a consumer. This research paper therefore provides a conceptual threat assessment framework that can be used to identify the elements needed to better secure Consumer Health Wearables. These elements consist of six core elements from the CIA triad and Microsoft STRIDE framework. Fourteen vulnerabilities were further discovered that were classified within these six core elements. Through this, better guidance can be achieved to improve the privacy and security of Consumer Health Wearables.
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A psychosocial study of young adults’ experiences of their sibling’s mental illness
- Authors: Laurie, Gina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- South Africa -- Case studies , Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- Psychology , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mentally ill -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6165 , vital:21053
- Description: There are a number of studies that investigate the experiences of mental illness in the context of sibling relationships. However, these studies have not focused on young adulthood and limited research has been conducted in South Africa. This research uses a psychosocial framework which combines psychoanalytic theory and social constructionism to account for individual subjectivity and social influences. This method sought to answer two main research questions: how do young adults construct their experiences of having a sibling with a mental illness and with what effects, and how might we understand the emotional investments in these constructions? Six participants were interviewed and the findings suggest that participants draw on four main discourses in constructing their siblings’ mental illness: a discourse of mental illness as a sickness, a discourse of mental illness as part of the person, a discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, and a discourse of mental illness as a spiritual issue. These discourses and the function of these discourses are discussed. Furthermore, an extract from one participant is examined in a case study format so as to explore the emotional investments in the discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, arguing that her investments in this discourse serves to protect her by enabling her to manage feelings of not being ‘good enough’.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Laurie, Gina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- South Africa -- Case studies , Brothers and sisters of people with disabilities -- Psychology , Mentally ill -- Family relationships , Mentally ill -- Care -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6165 , vital:21053
- Description: There are a number of studies that investigate the experiences of mental illness in the context of sibling relationships. However, these studies have not focused on young adulthood and limited research has been conducted in South Africa. This research uses a psychosocial framework which combines psychoanalytic theory and social constructionism to account for individual subjectivity and social influences. This method sought to answer two main research questions: how do young adults construct their experiences of having a sibling with a mental illness and with what effects, and how might we understand the emotional investments in these constructions? Six participants were interviewed and the findings suggest that participants draw on four main discourses in constructing their siblings’ mental illness: a discourse of mental illness as a sickness, a discourse of mental illness as part of the person, a discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, and a discourse of mental illness as a spiritual issue. These discourses and the function of these discourses are discussed. Furthermore, an extract from one participant is examined in a case study format so as to explore the emotional investments in the discourse of mental illness as bad behaviour, arguing that her investments in this discourse serves to protect her by enabling her to manage feelings of not being ‘good enough’.
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A record of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) diet in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Botswana
- Craig, Christie A, Brassine, Eleanor I, Parker, Daniel M
- Authors: Craig, Christie A , Brassine, Eleanor I , Parker, Daniel M
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123004 , vital:35395 , https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12374
- Description: Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) typically prey upon the most available small to medium-sized (23–56 kg) antelope (Hayward et al., 2006). In Botswana, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), followed by steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), are the prey species most frequently killed by cheetahs (Klein, 2007). Juvenile eland (Tragelaphus oryx), gemsbok (Oryx gazella), hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus) and kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) are also taken (Klein, 2007). The Northern Tuli Game Reserve (NOTUGRE) in eastern Botswana is naturally delineated by the nonperennial Shashe and Limpopo rivers in the east and south and has relatively porous game fencing along portions of the western and southern boundaries (Fig. 1) (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). Neither the fences nor the rivers restrict the movement of large carnivores such as cheetahs, lions (Panthera leo), leopards (Panthera pardus), spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) and African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) onto neighbouring pastoral land (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). It is thus possible that cheetahs are feeding on livestock outside of the park. However, the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE has not been evaluated. Our study serves to describe the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE using both scats and kill sightings.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Craig, Christie A , Brassine, Eleanor I , Parker, Daniel M
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123004 , vital:35395 , https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12374
- Description: Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) typically prey upon the most available small to medium-sized (23–56 kg) antelope (Hayward et al., 2006). In Botswana, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), followed by steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), are the prey species most frequently killed by cheetahs (Klein, 2007). Juvenile eland (Tragelaphus oryx), gemsbok (Oryx gazella), hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus) and kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) are also taken (Klein, 2007). The Northern Tuli Game Reserve (NOTUGRE) in eastern Botswana is naturally delineated by the nonperennial Shashe and Limpopo rivers in the east and south and has relatively porous game fencing along portions of the western and southern boundaries (Fig. 1) (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). Neither the fences nor the rivers restrict the movement of large carnivores such as cheetahs, lions (Panthera leo), leopards (Panthera pardus), spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) and African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) onto neighbouring pastoral land (Jackson, McNutt & Apps, 2012). It is thus possible that cheetahs are feeding on livestock outside of the park. However, the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE has not been evaluated. Our study serves to describe the diet of the cheetahs in NOTUGRE using both scats and kill sightings.
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A review of how teachers are using the renewable energy materials in their lessons
- Authors: Lambrechts, Therese
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- South Africa , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/13888 , vital:21864
- Description: Climate change and renewable energy have recently become part of the school curriculum in South Africa. Many teachers at the secondary school level thus have to teach topics with which they are not (necessarily) familiar. The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies at Stellenbosch University has established a schools' programme to provide materials to aid the educators in the teaching of renewable energy topics. A research-based set of Learning Teaching Support Material (LTSM) was developed for high school educators. The learning material includes a DVD, PowerPoint presentations, posters, a teacher's manual, and assignments that can be used in different subjects. This study reports and reviews how teachers are currently using the material. Teacher accounts of materials use and evidence of learning in students work were solicited using an appreciative inquiry review process. The data reflected the value being created through patterns of materials use. A Vygotskian based task sequencing framework of Anne Edwards was used to examine the patterns of use which support learning. The use of the task sequencing as an analytical lens allowed the review to probe how knowledge representation was the primary use by teachers. Here they introduced learners to key concepts and to broaden their knowledge on renewable energy. The activities served to scaffold a clear learning progression but the activities were not strongly enough orientated towards ESD as learner-led processes of enquiry and action. The outcomes of the study will be used to update and better align the materials with a need for teachers to strengthen important ESD outcomes in the current curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lambrechts, Therese
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Renewable energy sources -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- South Africa , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/13888 , vital:21864
- Description: Climate change and renewable energy have recently become part of the school curriculum in South Africa. Many teachers at the secondary school level thus have to teach topics with which they are not (necessarily) familiar. The Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies at Stellenbosch University has established a schools' programme to provide materials to aid the educators in the teaching of renewable energy topics. A research-based set of Learning Teaching Support Material (LTSM) was developed for high school educators. The learning material includes a DVD, PowerPoint presentations, posters, a teacher's manual, and assignments that can be used in different subjects. This study reports and reviews how teachers are currently using the material. Teacher accounts of materials use and evidence of learning in students work were solicited using an appreciative inquiry review process. The data reflected the value being created through patterns of materials use. A Vygotskian based task sequencing framework of Anne Edwards was used to examine the patterns of use which support learning. The use of the task sequencing as an analytical lens allowed the review to probe how knowledge representation was the primary use by teachers. Here they introduced learners to key concepts and to broaden their knowledge on renewable energy. The activities served to scaffold a clear learning progression but the activities were not strongly enough orientated towards ESD as learner-led processes of enquiry and action. The outcomes of the study will be used to update and better align the materials with a need for teachers to strengthen important ESD outcomes in the current curriculum.
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A review of the development and enactment of a radio programme on rainwater harvesting in expanding social learning interactions: a case of the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lupele, Chisala
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network , Amanzi for Food , Radio in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational broadcasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Radio stations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental education -- South Africa , Water conservation -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Rhodes University. Environmental Learning Research Centre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/12991 , vital:21786
- Description: The use of radio and associated information and communications technologies (ICTs) has not been widely explored as a process of environmental education over the years. If environmental education is to involve many people, the use of radio and associated ICTs, particularly in community radio, needs to be researched because radio has multilayered functions. This study examines how practitioners in an agricultural Community of Practice (CoP), namely the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa developed a radio programme on rainwater harvesting for the promotion of food security. The study probes the expansion and social learning of the network and into the public sphere after broadcasts. The study draws on research data generated in the Amanzi for Food project which was funded by the Water Research Commission of South Africa and was led by the Rhodes University Environmental Learning Research Centre. Using interviews, radio programme transcripts and observations, the study found that through using their prior knowledge from a training of trainers’ course on rain water harvesting and drawing on everyday experience of rainwater harvesting the CoP members had an expansion in their mutual engagement, joint enterprise, diversity, shared repertoire and identity into a knowledge community. This learning process developed through a successive elaboration of social ecological and social articulations related to the expansive functioning of the CoP; and experience of the benefits of rainwater harvesting as radio programme listeners deliberated how the different practices related to their existing knowledge and experience. The study also found that these expansive processes of social learning occurred across the spectrum of smallholder farmers and homestead food growers in a stimulated radio listening focus group discussion. The study concludes that agriculture practitioners involved in education for sustainable development could expand their knowledge sharing platforms by giving more attention to community radio as a means of both involving participants and engaging learning communities in local environment and sustainability concerns.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lupele, Chisala
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network , Amanzi for Food , Radio in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational broadcasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Radio stations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental education -- South Africa , Water conservation -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Rhodes University. Environmental Learning Research Centre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/12991 , vital:21786
- Description: The use of radio and associated information and communications technologies (ICTs) has not been widely explored as a process of environmental education over the years. If environmental education is to involve many people, the use of radio and associated ICTs, particularly in community radio, needs to be researched because radio has multilayered functions. This study examines how practitioners in an agricultural Community of Practice (CoP), namely the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network in the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa developed a radio programme on rainwater harvesting for the promotion of food security. The study probes the expansion and social learning of the network and into the public sphere after broadcasts. The study draws on research data generated in the Amanzi for Food project which was funded by the Water Research Commission of South Africa and was led by the Rhodes University Environmental Learning Research Centre. Using interviews, radio programme transcripts and observations, the study found that through using their prior knowledge from a training of trainers’ course on rain water harvesting and drawing on everyday experience of rainwater harvesting the CoP members had an expansion in their mutual engagement, joint enterprise, diversity, shared repertoire and identity into a knowledge community. This learning process developed through a successive elaboration of social ecological and social articulations related to the expansive functioning of the CoP; and experience of the benefits of rainwater harvesting as radio programme listeners deliberated how the different practices related to their existing knowledge and experience. The study also found that these expansive processes of social learning occurred across the spectrum of smallholder farmers and homestead food growers in a stimulated radio listening focus group discussion. The study concludes that agriculture practitioners involved in education for sustainable development could expand their knowledge sharing platforms by giving more attention to community radio as a means of both involving participants and engaging learning communities in local environment and sustainability concerns.
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A risk-based framework for new products: a South African telecommunication’s study
- Authors: Jeffries, Michael
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Telephone companies -- Risk management -- South Africa , Telephone companies -- South Africa -- Case studies , Telecommunication -- Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4765 , vital:20722
- Description: The integrated reports of Vodacom, Telkom and MTN — telecommunication organisations in South Africa — show that they are diversifying their product offerings from traditional voice and data services. These organisations are including new offerings covering the financial, health, insurance and mobile education services. The potential exists for these organisations to launch products that are substandard and which either do not take into account customer needs or do not comply with current legislations or regulations. Most telecommunication organisations have a well-defined enterprise risk management program, to ensure compliance to King III, however risk management processes specifically for new products and services might be lacking. The responsibility usually resides with the product managers for the implementation of robust products; however they do not always have the correct skillset to ensure adherence to governance requirements and therefore might not be aware of which laws they might not be adhering to, or understand the customers’ requirements. More complex products, additional competition, changes to technology and new business ventures have reinforced the need to manage risk on telecommunication products. Failure to take risk requirements into account could lead to potential fines, damage the organisation’s reputation which could lead to customers churning from these service providers. This research analyses three periods of data captured from a mobile telecommunication organisation to assess the current status quo of risk management maturity within the organisation’s product and service environment. Based on the analysis as well as industry best practices, a risk management framework for products is proposed that can assist product managers analyse concepts to ensure adherence to governance requirements. This could assist new product or service offerings in the marketplace do not create a perception of distrust by consumers.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jeffries, Michael
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Telephone companies -- Risk management -- South Africa , Telephone companies -- South Africa -- Case studies , Telecommunication -- Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4765 , vital:20722
- Description: The integrated reports of Vodacom, Telkom and MTN — telecommunication organisations in South Africa — show that they are diversifying their product offerings from traditional voice and data services. These organisations are including new offerings covering the financial, health, insurance and mobile education services. The potential exists for these organisations to launch products that are substandard and which either do not take into account customer needs or do not comply with current legislations or regulations. Most telecommunication organisations have a well-defined enterprise risk management program, to ensure compliance to King III, however risk management processes specifically for new products and services might be lacking. The responsibility usually resides with the product managers for the implementation of robust products; however they do not always have the correct skillset to ensure adherence to governance requirements and therefore might not be aware of which laws they might not be adhering to, or understand the customers’ requirements. More complex products, additional competition, changes to technology and new business ventures have reinforced the need to manage risk on telecommunication products. Failure to take risk requirements into account could lead to potential fines, damage the organisation’s reputation which could lead to customers churning from these service providers. This research analyses three periods of data captured from a mobile telecommunication organisation to assess the current status quo of risk management maturity within the organisation’s product and service environment. Based on the analysis as well as industry best practices, a risk management framework for products is proposed that can assist product managers analyse concepts to ensure adherence to governance requirements. This could assist new product or service offerings in the marketplace do not create a perception of distrust by consumers.
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A satrean account of the role of social narratives in the identity-formation and self-conception of the queer and intersex subject
- Authors: Phillips, Bianca Jewel
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/41554 , vital:25101
- Description: Successful, fully-fledged identity-formation and positive self-conception are contingent on the availability and sufficiency of social narratives. Following a Sartrean account of the human subject, identity will be shown to depend on externally-derived features (termed facticity). Facticity contains both material and social components. This thesis will show the two to be inextricably interlinked, and in so doing endorse Judith Butler's view that the material comes to us already seeped in social meaning. The interactive relationship between the discursive and the material will be illustrated by examining the phenomenon of intersexuality, in which the prevailing narrative of a dichotomized two-sex system has, through surgical, hormonal, and psychological procedures, become written into the flesh of non-binary individuals. The absence of affirming, diverse, and pluralistic narratives surrounding intersexuality, coupled with the imposition of the two-sex script, has (negatively) affected the material experiences, and subsequent identity-formation, of intersex individuals. Given the reliance of identity on socially-constituted facticities, the pursuit of flourishing, dignity, and an authentic and cohesive sense of self requires inclusive and diverse social scripts. Drawing on Mirander Fricker, I will elucidate how lacunae in the hermeneutical resource have resulted in confusion, unhappiness, and a lack of proper self-conception for individuals belonging to subjugated groups. Conversely, the availability of positive, diverse, and inclusive narratives will be shown to allow for more self-aware, self-determined subjects. I will ground my advocacy of inclusive, diverse social narratives in an examination of the beneficial genesis and development of the identity politics present in LGBTQIA++ movements (such as "Out and Proud", recognition of queer identity, and the development of non-binary gender). Assuming that self-understanding, authenticity, and flourishing are ethical goods that are valued, inclusive and affirming narratives for subjugated groups will be shown to be a normative necessity.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Phillips, Bianca Jewel
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/41554 , vital:25101
- Description: Successful, fully-fledged identity-formation and positive self-conception are contingent on the availability and sufficiency of social narratives. Following a Sartrean account of the human subject, identity will be shown to depend on externally-derived features (termed facticity). Facticity contains both material and social components. This thesis will show the two to be inextricably interlinked, and in so doing endorse Judith Butler's view that the material comes to us already seeped in social meaning. The interactive relationship between the discursive and the material will be illustrated by examining the phenomenon of intersexuality, in which the prevailing narrative of a dichotomized two-sex system has, through surgical, hormonal, and psychological procedures, become written into the flesh of non-binary individuals. The absence of affirming, diverse, and pluralistic narratives surrounding intersexuality, coupled with the imposition of the two-sex script, has (negatively) affected the material experiences, and subsequent identity-formation, of intersex individuals. Given the reliance of identity on socially-constituted facticities, the pursuit of flourishing, dignity, and an authentic and cohesive sense of self requires inclusive and diverse social scripts. Drawing on Mirander Fricker, I will elucidate how lacunae in the hermeneutical resource have resulted in confusion, unhappiness, and a lack of proper self-conception for individuals belonging to subjugated groups. Conversely, the availability of positive, diverse, and inclusive narratives will be shown to allow for more self-aware, self-determined subjects. I will ground my advocacy of inclusive, diverse social narratives in an examination of the beneficial genesis and development of the identity politics present in LGBTQIA++ movements (such as "Out and Proud", recognition of queer identity, and the development of non-binary gender). Assuming that self-understanding, authenticity, and flourishing are ethical goods that are valued, inclusive and affirming narratives for subjugated groups will be shown to be a normative necessity.
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A social justice approach for counselling psychology in South Africa: lessons from a collaborative action research intervention
- Authors: Schwartz, Abegail Faraja
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5233 , vital:20791
- Description: In the past decade, increased attention has been paid to the changing role of counselling psychology in South Africa. The aim of this study is to contribute to the debates about the social responsiveness, scope and focus of the field. The following research question was formulated: What lessons about a social justice approach can a counselling psychologist learn from a youth unemployment community engagement activity? Through engagement with a group of unemployed young people about their status and exploring the role that a counselling psychologist might take, a collaborative action research approach was employed. Data were generated through collaborative action research cycles, semi-structured interviews, social media communications and the researcher’s reflective journal. Template analysis was used to make sense of the data and generate preliminary themes. Process findings illustrated the supportive and constraining role of the academic research process, the time frame and the characteristics of the target group. The content-related findings illustrated the impact of contextual and demographic factors on the participants’ unemployed status. The findings confirmed the negative effect of unemployment on psychological well-being despite support from family, friends and community members. Factors such as education and socioeconomic status influenced the job seeking behaviour of participants and although participants were aware that societal change is needed, there was evidence of internalised self-blame. Recommendations emphasise the inclusion of relevant social justice models for the context of South Africa in the training of counselling psychologists; and a pressing need to engage in micro-, meso- and macro-level advocacy to collaboratively debate the identity and scope of practice of the profession and the review of professional and ethical guidelines.
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- Authors: Schwartz, Abegail Faraja
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5233 , vital:20791
- Description: In the past decade, increased attention has been paid to the changing role of counselling psychology in South Africa. The aim of this study is to contribute to the debates about the social responsiveness, scope and focus of the field. The following research question was formulated: What lessons about a social justice approach can a counselling psychologist learn from a youth unemployment community engagement activity? Through engagement with a group of unemployed young people about their status and exploring the role that a counselling psychologist might take, a collaborative action research approach was employed. Data were generated through collaborative action research cycles, semi-structured interviews, social media communications and the researcher’s reflective journal. Template analysis was used to make sense of the data and generate preliminary themes. Process findings illustrated the supportive and constraining role of the academic research process, the time frame and the characteristics of the target group. The content-related findings illustrated the impact of contextual and demographic factors on the participants’ unemployed status. The findings confirmed the negative effect of unemployment on psychological well-being despite support from family, friends and community members. Factors such as education and socioeconomic status influenced the job seeking behaviour of participants and although participants were aware that societal change is needed, there was evidence of internalised self-blame. Recommendations emphasise the inclusion of relevant social justice models for the context of South Africa in the training of counselling psychologists; and a pressing need to engage in micro-, meso- and macro-level advocacy to collaboratively debate the identity and scope of practice of the profession and the review of professional and ethical guidelines.
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A social realist analysis of participation in academic professional development for the integration of digital technologies in higher education
- Authors: Mistri, Gitanjali Umesh
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Education, Higher -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa , Durban University of Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:20936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5510
- Description: The introduction of digital technologies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in keeping with higher education institutions globally, has had a significant impact on the learning environment at the institution. Despite this the anticipated demand for academic professional development (APD) did not materialise at DUT. Using Margaret Archer’s Realist Social Theory (1995) this single-institution case study offers a critical examination of cultural, structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain academic professional development (APD) for the integration of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at a higher education institution in South Africa. Archer’s (1995) morphogenetic approach enabled an investigation of the interface between the conditions encountered by the academics (at macro, meso and micro levels), in order to theorise about the material, ideational and agential conditions that obtained and which in turn influenced the decision to participate or not participate in the APD programmes. This longitudinal study from 2012 until 2016 traced the APD related changes following the decision to promote the implementation of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions as an institutional imperative. The theoretical framework allowed for an examination of the interpretation of the conditions experienced by academics, either as compatible or contradictory to their individual or collective concerns. It further provided an insight into their evaluation of the legitimacy and value of the APD programmes. The study examined the impact of the provision of resources for APD on the nature of the use of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at the site of the case study, the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. The analysis of academic reactions to the changes instituted at both the meso (institutional) and micro (academic professional development) levels revealed that the changes produced conditions that resulted in limited morphogenesis. In particular, it seems that the disruption brought about by the introduction of the technology imperative was accompanied by conditions resulting in further diversification of academic capacities at the institution. This study advances concrete propositions about the conditions that influenced the APD related responses of the academics to the institutionalisation of e-Learning. The research adds to knowledge through insights into the process theory approach to causation, which recognises that structures, mechanisms and events produce unique effects and that the same mechanisms at times produce different events. This study argues that understanding what underlies a certain course of events may enable informed interventions to create better correspondences between APD and the introduction of digital technologies in higher education. Further, this study has generated insights into the importance of taking into consideration the discipline-related knowledge structures in the design and provision of academic development programmes. It is proposed that the incorporation of organising principles of knowledge practices within the academic professional development programme design would earn value and legitimacy for the programme, and promote participation by academics in digital technology-related academic professional development. In summary, the research contributes to an understanding of why it has been that, even with many first order barriers – such as digital access and infrastructural limitations – reduced, the uptake of digital technologies and participation in related academic professional development programmes by academics in higher education has yet to initiate a move beyond doing what is familiar in a digitally-mediated learning environment.
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- Authors: Mistri, Gitanjali Umesh
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Education, Higher -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa , Durban University of Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:20936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5510
- Description: The introduction of digital technologies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in keeping with higher education institutions globally, has had a significant impact on the learning environment at the institution. Despite this the anticipated demand for academic professional development (APD) did not materialise at DUT. Using Margaret Archer’s Realist Social Theory (1995) this single-institution case study offers a critical examination of cultural, structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain academic professional development (APD) for the integration of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at a higher education institution in South Africa. Archer’s (1995) morphogenetic approach enabled an investigation of the interface between the conditions encountered by the academics (at macro, meso and micro levels), in order to theorise about the material, ideational and agential conditions that obtained and which in turn influenced the decision to participate or not participate in the APD programmes. This longitudinal study from 2012 until 2016 traced the APD related changes following the decision to promote the implementation of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions as an institutional imperative. The theoretical framework allowed for an examination of the interpretation of the conditions experienced by academics, either as compatible or contradictory to their individual or collective concerns. It further provided an insight into their evaluation of the legitimacy and value of the APD programmes. The study examined the impact of the provision of resources for APD on the nature of the use of digital technologies in teaching–learning interactions at the site of the case study, the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. The analysis of academic reactions to the changes instituted at both the meso (institutional) and micro (academic professional development) levels revealed that the changes produced conditions that resulted in limited morphogenesis. In particular, it seems that the disruption brought about by the introduction of the technology imperative was accompanied by conditions resulting in further diversification of academic capacities at the institution. This study advances concrete propositions about the conditions that influenced the APD related responses of the academics to the institutionalisation of e-Learning. The research adds to knowledge through insights into the process theory approach to causation, which recognises that structures, mechanisms and events produce unique effects and that the same mechanisms at times produce different events. This study argues that understanding what underlies a certain course of events may enable informed interventions to create better correspondences between APD and the introduction of digital technologies in higher education. Further, this study has generated insights into the importance of taking into consideration the discipline-related knowledge structures in the design and provision of academic development programmes. It is proposed that the incorporation of organising principles of knowledge practices within the academic professional development programme design would earn value and legitimacy for the programme, and promote participation by academics in digital technology-related academic professional development. In summary, the research contributes to an understanding of why it has been that, even with many first order barriers – such as digital access and infrastructural limitations – reduced, the uptake of digital technologies and participation in related academic professional development programmes by academics in higher education has yet to initiate a move beyond doing what is familiar in a digitally-mediated learning environment.
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A sociological analysis of Rhodes University Students previously diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and prescribed psychostimulant medications
- Authors: Brasher, Chelsea Marilyn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) , Mental illness -- Public opinion , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Treatment , Symbolic interactionism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7610 , vital:21278
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, bringing into account the labelling theory, the stigmas attached upon mental health issues and the medicalization approach, this study sought to document and analyze the viewpoints that previously diagnosed Rhodes University students hold towards the ADHD label and the subsequent usage of psychostimulant medications. Seven respondents were involved in an in-depth interviewing process. Out of the seven respondents chosen, five of the respondents were diagnosed in their primary school years, whereas the other two respondents were diagnosed in their late teenage years or early adult years. These respondents were included to enlighten and support the narrative of the five respondents diagnosed in their youth. The findings varied, with some of the respondents feeling negatively affected by having the ADHD label attached to them, and others, positively affected by it. The findings were also diverse in terms of how the respondents experienced stimulant usage, with some believing that the benefits of usage outweigh the costs, and others, the opposite. At a general level, it was discovered that the respondents were not affected by the ADHD label in terms of their interactions with others in primary school. It was only as they got older did some become fearful of the stigma attached to the ADHD label, and that of medication.
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- Authors: Brasher, Chelsea Marilyn
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) , Mental illness -- Public opinion , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Treatment , Symbolic interactionism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7610 , vital:21278
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, bringing into account the labelling theory, the stigmas attached upon mental health issues and the medicalization approach, this study sought to document and analyze the viewpoints that previously diagnosed Rhodes University students hold towards the ADHD label and the subsequent usage of psychostimulant medications. Seven respondents were involved in an in-depth interviewing process. Out of the seven respondents chosen, five of the respondents were diagnosed in their primary school years, whereas the other two respondents were diagnosed in their late teenage years or early adult years. These respondents were included to enlighten and support the narrative of the five respondents diagnosed in their youth. The findings varied, with some of the respondents feeling negatively affected by having the ADHD label attached to them, and others, positively affected by it. The findings were also diverse in terms of how the respondents experienced stimulant usage, with some believing that the benefits of usage outweigh the costs, and others, the opposite. At a general level, it was discovered that the respondents were not affected by the ADHD label in terms of their interactions with others in primary school. It was only as they got older did some become fearful of the stigma attached to the ADHD label, and that of medication.
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A sociological analysis of the lives and livelihoods of child support grant caregivers in Queenstown, South Africa
- Authors: Ntantiso, Ziyanda
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7925 , vital:21325
- Description: The post-apartheid state in South Africa has initiated and implemented a large-scale social assistance programme in the form of social grants, including the child support grant. The grant system is meant to provide recipients, who comprise mainly people from poor black households, with the capacity to reduce levels of poverty in their households. The grant with the largest number of recipients is the child support grant, and it is given to the caregiver of a child eligible to receive the grant. Though the value of the monthly grant is minimal, the prevailing literature suggests that it does contribute in some way to enhancing the welfare of the recipients. This thesis focuses on child support grant recipients in the town of Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, and particularly those recipients for whom the grant is the crucial source of income. The main objective of the thesis is to understand and analyse the lives and livelihoods of child support grant recipients (all women) in Queenstown, South Africa. In this regard, the vast majority of caregivers of grant children are women and they often rely exclusively on the grant in taking care of themselves and the children. The thesis does not seek to determine any direct causal relationship between the child grant and poverty reduction, as much of the existing literature seeks to do. It focuses instead on the lives of the grant recipients, including the many challenges they face, as well as how they use the grant to pursue livelihoods in a manner which may at least inhibit the prospects of entering into deeper levels of poverty. The thesis demonstrates that, despite their deprived conditions of material existence, the female caregivers in Queenstown display significant agency in caring for their grant children.
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- Authors: Ntantiso, Ziyanda
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7925 , vital:21325
- Description: The post-apartheid state in South Africa has initiated and implemented a large-scale social assistance programme in the form of social grants, including the child support grant. The grant system is meant to provide recipients, who comprise mainly people from poor black households, with the capacity to reduce levels of poverty in their households. The grant with the largest number of recipients is the child support grant, and it is given to the caregiver of a child eligible to receive the grant. Though the value of the monthly grant is minimal, the prevailing literature suggests that it does contribute in some way to enhancing the welfare of the recipients. This thesis focuses on child support grant recipients in the town of Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, and particularly those recipients for whom the grant is the crucial source of income. The main objective of the thesis is to understand and analyse the lives and livelihoods of child support grant recipients (all women) in Queenstown, South Africa. In this regard, the vast majority of caregivers of grant children are women and they often rely exclusively on the grant in taking care of themselves and the children. The thesis does not seek to determine any direct causal relationship between the child grant and poverty reduction, as much of the existing literature seeks to do. It focuses instead on the lives of the grant recipients, including the many challenges they face, as well as how they use the grant to pursue livelihoods in a manner which may at least inhibit the prospects of entering into deeper levels of poverty. The thesis demonstrates that, despite their deprived conditions of material existence, the female caregivers in Queenstown display significant agency in caring for their grant children.
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