The influence of the real business cycle shocks on aggregate demand in South Africa
- Authors: Mesatywa, Msa Pumelela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business cycles -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa Macroeconomics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42407 , vital:36653
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of the real business cycle shocks on aggregate demand in South Africa. These shocks consist of government expenditure, oil prices, technology (proxied by research and development), labour productivity, and droughts. The theoretical framework is presented consisting of the literature review and empirical review. The Neo-classical, Keynesian and Structuralist theories are explained in the literature review. Furthermore, the empirical section consists of previous studies from developed and developing countries, and as well as studies conducted in South Africa based on the topic of this study. The Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model approach was used to find the influence between economic growth, government expenditures, oil prices, technology shock (proxy research and development), labour productivity and droughts in South Africae using quarterly data from 1995 to 2017. The Hodrick-Prescott (HP) filter was used to extract the shocks and to test their influence on economic growth. The NARDL technique uses a single reduced form of equation to examine the long run relationship of the variables as opposed to other models. The NARDL technique is also suitable to use to test co-integration and does not require the underlying variables to be integrated of similar order. The results from the NARDL bounds test showed that there is a long run relationship for government expenditure, oil prices, technology, labour productivity and droughts. Furthermore, the labour productivity shock tends out to be the larger shock affecting South Africa’s economy. This study will provide policy recommendations on how to improve and increase labour productivity in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mesatywa, Msa Pumelela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business cycles -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa Macroeconomics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42407 , vital:36653
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of the real business cycle shocks on aggregate demand in South Africa. These shocks consist of government expenditure, oil prices, technology (proxied by research and development), labour productivity, and droughts. The theoretical framework is presented consisting of the literature review and empirical review. The Neo-classical, Keynesian and Structuralist theories are explained in the literature review. Furthermore, the empirical section consists of previous studies from developed and developing countries, and as well as studies conducted in South Africa based on the topic of this study. The Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model approach was used to find the influence between economic growth, government expenditures, oil prices, technology shock (proxy research and development), labour productivity and droughts in South Africae using quarterly data from 1995 to 2017. The Hodrick-Prescott (HP) filter was used to extract the shocks and to test their influence on economic growth. The NARDL technique uses a single reduced form of equation to examine the long run relationship of the variables as opposed to other models. The NARDL technique is also suitable to use to test co-integration and does not require the underlying variables to be integrated of similar order. The results from the NARDL bounds test showed that there is a long run relationship for government expenditure, oil prices, technology, labour productivity and droughts. Furthermore, the labour productivity shock tends out to be the larger shock affecting South Africa’s economy. This study will provide policy recommendations on how to improve and increase labour productivity in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The use of the performance management system as management tool to accelerate service delivery in municipalities, case study Amathole District Municipality Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nako, Mkhululi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management Public administration Local government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13824 , vital:39715
- Description: In the recent years have been several public protests in our communities which was a result of slow pace in the provision of services by the municipalities in the district which has led to the use of the performance management system in order to accelerate the service delivery. The study focused on the usage of the system like performance management to accelerate service delivery in Amatole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape Province. There is limited research regarding the usage of the system like performance management to accelerate service delivery in Amatole District Municipality. Mixed research methodology was used. The sample (n=10) comprised of individual involved in performance management systems. Data was collected through the questionnaire method and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data analysis. The study results show that while the performance management systems are being practiced at the municipality it is not done effectively and efficiently. In addition, not all municipal employees had the necessary knowledge and expertise to implement PMS. It can also be noted that every respondent in the study agreed that performance management systems do accelerate service delivery if done efficiently. The study recommends that local government should not only focus on their plans on dealing with backlogs but also on the rapid development taking place and the performance management system framework should cater for individual performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nako, Mkhululi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management Public administration Local government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13824 , vital:39715
- Description: In the recent years have been several public protests in our communities which was a result of slow pace in the provision of services by the municipalities in the district which has led to the use of the performance management system in order to accelerate the service delivery. The study focused on the usage of the system like performance management to accelerate service delivery in Amatole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape Province. There is limited research regarding the usage of the system like performance management to accelerate service delivery in Amatole District Municipality. Mixed research methodology was used. The sample (n=10) comprised of individual involved in performance management systems. Data was collected through the questionnaire method and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data analysis. The study results show that while the performance management systems are being practiced at the municipality it is not done effectively and efficiently. In addition, not all municipal employees had the necessary knowledge and expertise to implement PMS. It can also be noted that every respondent in the study agreed that performance management systems do accelerate service delivery if done efficiently. The study recommends that local government should not only focus on their plans on dealing with backlogs but also on the rapid development taking place and the performance management system framework should cater for individual performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of quality health care in the operating theatres of Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Bennett, Fabion Charton
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medical care Surgical instruments and apparatus -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13425 , vital:39660
- Description: BACKGROUND: Operating theatres are one of most expensive resources in a hospital. The management of operating theatres is complex due to the conflicting priorities and preferences of all stakeholders. Operating theatres also pose one of the greatest medico legal risks to any hospital. This study was conducted at Frere Hospital in East London to assess the functioning of the operating theatre system. The focus of this study was on Pre-operative categorisation of emergency cases, the utilisation of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist, compliance to the National Core Standards for Health, the effectiveness of governance and review processes, theatre staffing as well as theatre efficiency indicators (start time/tardiness, utilisation, turn-around time, re-admission to theatre rate, cancellation on day of procedure, slate under/over runs, Anaesthetic time as a percentage of theatre time). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to promote the adherence to the various operating theatre universal approaches by operating theatre staff with the goal of reducing costs and errors caused by poor quality in operating theatres and improving the overall health system. METHOD: In this research a convergent parallel mixed method research design was applied. The research was non-experimental and descriptive in approach, using a mixed method questionnaire, a structured open ended interview, a structured infrastructure assessment, a structured observation checklist and an audit of patient files for a review of emergency surgical cases. Data was collected during October 2016 and January 2017.The study population consisted of 13 operating rooms across 6 operating theatre suites, surgical management staff as well as clinical and nursing staff in the operating theatres at Frere Hospital in East London. RESULTS: The study showed opportunities for improvement in the overall management of the operating theatres to ensure efficient quality care; the data from the observations, questionnaires, interviews as well as the analysis of the efficiency indicators consistently showed that an effective process of operating theatre governance and performance is non-existent, the Pre- operative categorisation of emergency cases is inconsistently applied, the compliance to the principles of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist Is very low, theatre nursing staff levels per case is low, staff are also demotivated and theatre efficiency indicators require improvement. During this study, the Paediatric theatre suite appeared to be well run and compliant with opportunity to increase theatre utilisation, the casualty theatre is underutilised and has potential to be utilised as an enabler to improve the efficiency of other theatres. The main theatre and endoscopy suites have opportunities to improve its compliance to universal operating theatre quality and efficiency standards, the Orthopaedics and Obstetrics theatre suites, however, require urgent improvement focus. DISCUSSION: According to the findings, a structured operating theatre governance and performance review processes should be implemented with the intention of ensuring consistency across the management of the 6 operating theatre suites in the hospital. A review of staffing allocation and relative task allocation should be conducted. Interventions should be implemented to increase utilisation rates, improve the pre-operative categorisation of emergency cases, improve the compliance to the principles of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist, reduce case start time variance/tardiness, reduce cancellation on day of procedure, increase anaesthetic time as a percentage of theatre time by introducing pre- anaesthetic induction prior to the patient being wheeled into the operating room.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of quality health care in the operating theatres of Frere Hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Bennett, Fabion Charton
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medical care Surgical instruments and apparatus -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13425 , vital:39660
- Description: BACKGROUND: Operating theatres are one of most expensive resources in a hospital. The management of operating theatres is complex due to the conflicting priorities and preferences of all stakeholders. Operating theatres also pose one of the greatest medico legal risks to any hospital. This study was conducted at Frere Hospital in East London to assess the functioning of the operating theatre system. The focus of this study was on Pre-operative categorisation of emergency cases, the utilisation of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist, compliance to the National Core Standards for Health, the effectiveness of governance and review processes, theatre staffing as well as theatre efficiency indicators (start time/tardiness, utilisation, turn-around time, re-admission to theatre rate, cancellation on day of procedure, slate under/over runs, Anaesthetic time as a percentage of theatre time). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to promote the adherence to the various operating theatre universal approaches by operating theatre staff with the goal of reducing costs and errors caused by poor quality in operating theatres and improving the overall health system. METHOD: In this research a convergent parallel mixed method research design was applied. The research was non-experimental and descriptive in approach, using a mixed method questionnaire, a structured open ended interview, a structured infrastructure assessment, a structured observation checklist and an audit of patient files for a review of emergency surgical cases. Data was collected during October 2016 and January 2017.The study population consisted of 13 operating rooms across 6 operating theatre suites, surgical management staff as well as clinical and nursing staff in the operating theatres at Frere Hospital in East London. RESULTS: The study showed opportunities for improvement in the overall management of the operating theatres to ensure efficient quality care; the data from the observations, questionnaires, interviews as well as the analysis of the efficiency indicators consistently showed that an effective process of operating theatre governance and performance is non-existent, the Pre- operative categorisation of emergency cases is inconsistently applied, the compliance to the principles of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist Is very low, theatre nursing staff levels per case is low, staff are also demotivated and theatre efficiency indicators require improvement. During this study, the Paediatric theatre suite appeared to be well run and compliant with opportunity to increase theatre utilisation, the casualty theatre is underutilised and has potential to be utilised as an enabler to improve the efficiency of other theatres. The main theatre and endoscopy suites have opportunities to improve its compliance to universal operating theatre quality and efficiency standards, the Orthopaedics and Obstetrics theatre suites, however, require urgent improvement focus. DISCUSSION: According to the findings, a structured operating theatre governance and performance review processes should be implemented with the intention of ensuring consistency across the management of the 6 operating theatre suites in the hospital. A review of staffing allocation and relative task allocation should be conducted. Interventions should be implemented to increase utilisation rates, improve the pre-operative categorisation of emergency cases, improve the compliance to the principles of the World Health Organisation Safety Checklist, reduce case start time variance/tardiness, reduce cancellation on day of procedure, increase anaesthetic time as a percentage of theatre time by introducing pre- anaesthetic induction prior to the patient being wheeled into the operating room.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of migrants in the Pan Africanist struggle for liberation from 1962 to 1963 : the case of Cofimvaba
- Authors: Mwanda, Sindiswa Christina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- History -- 1962-1963 South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1962-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , History
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9883 , vital:35107
- Description: The perspective of South African liberation history needs to be balanced by recalling events that might otherwise be overshadowed by the subsequent electoral dominance of the African National Congress since 1994. This study is concerned with one such: the Cofimvaba struggles of 1962-3 which was organised by Cofimvaba migrants under the ideology of the Pan Africanist Congress. Whereas previous historians have based their accounts mainly on trial records, this thesis strives to recover the migrants’ own perspective through intensive and detailed interviews with the surviving veterans. It aims to provide an accurate historical account of the role played by migrant labourers, thereby correcting the historical distortions arising from overreliance on official sources to record the memories and perceptions of the struggle veterans, as exemplified by transcripts of interviews with and thereby provide some balance to the overall perspective of South African liberation history. The thesis opens with a description of the situation on the ground in Cofimvaba and Western Thembuland which gave rise to resistance. It continues with a discussion of the Pan-African Congress, especially in the Western Cape, the labour centre where most Cofimvaba migrants were concentrated. It proceeds to a detailed narrative of the events in Cofimvaba, more especially the battle of Ntlonze. The final chapter concludes with a critical reassessment of previous historical work, showing that the role of the migrants and the non-elite require greater appreciation and respect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mwanda, Sindiswa Christina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- History -- 1962-1963 South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1962-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , History
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9883 , vital:35107
- Description: The perspective of South African liberation history needs to be balanced by recalling events that might otherwise be overshadowed by the subsequent electoral dominance of the African National Congress since 1994. This study is concerned with one such: the Cofimvaba struggles of 1962-3 which was organised by Cofimvaba migrants under the ideology of the Pan Africanist Congress. Whereas previous historians have based their accounts mainly on trial records, this thesis strives to recover the migrants’ own perspective through intensive and detailed interviews with the surviving veterans. It aims to provide an accurate historical account of the role played by migrant labourers, thereby correcting the historical distortions arising from overreliance on official sources to record the memories and perceptions of the struggle veterans, as exemplified by transcripts of interviews with and thereby provide some balance to the overall perspective of South African liberation history. The thesis opens with a description of the situation on the ground in Cofimvaba and Western Thembuland which gave rise to resistance. It continues with a discussion of the Pan-African Congress, especially in the Western Cape, the labour centre where most Cofimvaba migrants were concentrated. It proceeds to a detailed narrative of the events in Cofimvaba, more especially the battle of Ntlonze. The final chapter concludes with a critical reassessment of previous historical work, showing that the role of the migrants and the non-elite require greater appreciation and respect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Understanding the role of the media in Zimbabwe African Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) factional fights and the representations of the Lacoste faction in Zimbabwe public discourses
- Mauswa, Desmond Tagara Tavengwa
- Authors: Mauswa, Desmond Tagara Tavengwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: ZANU-PF (Organization : Zimbabwe) , Political parties , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12582 , vital:39290
- Description: This thesis sought to critically examine the origins, nature and impact of ZANU PF factionalist tendencies and how a particular faction headed by former Vice President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa was represented in Zimbabwean public discourses. Drawing from comparative politics, history, media studies and Zimbabwean current affairs, this interdisciplinary narrative detailed how the new media played a central role in precipitating factional implosion in the liberation war based political party (ZANU PF). Clearly, ZANU PF internecine conflicts in and outside the state controlled and new media had far-reaching socio-economic and political ramifications as rival ZANU PF factions resorted to dirty strategies and tactics to try and weaken and outwit each other. These political machinations took the form of slandering, use of hate speech, dissemination of fake news, assassinations and poisoning among others. As the battle for factional supremacy raged on, the Zimbabwean economy continued on a downward spiral due to inter alia policy contradictions and uncertainty but at the end, November 2017 saw Mugabe being unexpectedly deposed in a coup after 37 years in power. This study went on to identify a number of factors that were working against Mugabe’s patient and heir apparent – Mnangagwa, as he sought to take over the reins of power. These included inter alia the presence and close proximity of the G40 faction linked to the first family but opposing the former vice president, his tainted political record as a result of his involvement in the Matabeleland massacre of the Ndebele ethnic group in the 1980s, allegedly masterminding and engineering electoral fraud in 2008 and having been Mugabe's right hand man for almost four decades. On the other hand, findings from this study suggest that Mnangagwa’s liberation war credentials and his close association with the military and the war veterans played a pivotal role in assisting him to land the presidency following Mugabe’s forced resignation or what was defined by many as a coup. While the Lacoste faction eventually prevailed over their G40 rivals, the study concluded that ZANU PF factionalism negatively impacted on governmental decisions, policies and systems and the aftermath of the military coup continues to pose serious challenges to Zimbabwe’s political future however defined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mauswa, Desmond Tagara Tavengwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: ZANU-PF (Organization : Zimbabwe) , Political parties , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12582 , vital:39290
- Description: This thesis sought to critically examine the origins, nature and impact of ZANU PF factionalist tendencies and how a particular faction headed by former Vice President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa was represented in Zimbabwean public discourses. Drawing from comparative politics, history, media studies and Zimbabwean current affairs, this interdisciplinary narrative detailed how the new media played a central role in precipitating factional implosion in the liberation war based political party (ZANU PF). Clearly, ZANU PF internecine conflicts in and outside the state controlled and new media had far-reaching socio-economic and political ramifications as rival ZANU PF factions resorted to dirty strategies and tactics to try and weaken and outwit each other. These political machinations took the form of slandering, use of hate speech, dissemination of fake news, assassinations and poisoning among others. As the battle for factional supremacy raged on, the Zimbabwean economy continued on a downward spiral due to inter alia policy contradictions and uncertainty but at the end, November 2017 saw Mugabe being unexpectedly deposed in a coup after 37 years in power. This study went on to identify a number of factors that were working against Mugabe’s patient and heir apparent – Mnangagwa, as he sought to take over the reins of power. These included inter alia the presence and close proximity of the G40 faction linked to the first family but opposing the former vice president, his tainted political record as a result of his involvement in the Matabeleland massacre of the Ndebele ethnic group in the 1980s, allegedly masterminding and engineering electoral fraud in 2008 and having been Mugabe's right hand man for almost four decades. On the other hand, findings from this study suggest that Mnangagwa’s liberation war credentials and his close association with the military and the war veterans played a pivotal role in assisting him to land the presidency following Mugabe’s forced resignation or what was defined by many as a coup. While the Lacoste faction eventually prevailed over their G40 rivals, the study concluded that ZANU PF factionalism negatively impacted on governmental decisions, policies and systems and the aftermath of the military coup continues to pose serious challenges to Zimbabwe’s political future however defined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring how teachers mediate learning of experimental techniques using fermentation and distillation of a traditional brew
- Authors: Paulus, Demetria
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/17637 , vital:22266
- Description: Physical Science is one of the subjects in which learners perform poorly in most Namibian schools. For instance, in ║Kharas region where the study was conducted, from 2010 to 2016, the overall performance has ranged between 20-40%. Furthermore, according to the results analysis report from the Directorate of National, Examination and Assessments (DNEA), from 2012 to 2016, the ||Kharas region was ranked 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th and 10th in the regional rankings. From the Examiner’s reports, the most poorly answered questions in the National Senior Certificate examinations are those that require learners to explain and show understanding. Additionally, the reports highlighted that learners lack practical skills or lack exposure to experiments and demonstrations to enhance their understanding (Namibia, 20142015). It is against this background that this study sought to explore how teachers mediate learning of experimental techniques using fermentation and distillation of a traditional brew. In particular, the study addressed the following sub-questions:1) what are Grade 11 Physical Science teachers’ perceptions and experiences on the inclusion of indigenous knowledge during Science lessons? 2) What factors influence Grade 11 Physical Science teachers’ perceptions and experiences on the inclusion of indigenous knowledge? 3) How do Grade 11 Physical Science teachers teach experimental techniques conventionally- fermentation and distillation? 4) How does the inclusion of a practical demonstration on making Ombike enable or constrain Grade 11 Physical Science teachers when explaining concepts on experimental techniques - fermentation and distillation? Thus, the focus was on conceptual understanding through linking content to the context of the learners. The study was underpinned by an interpretive paradigm whose focus is on understanding people’s worldviews. Within the interpretive paradigm, a mixed methods (Quant-QUAL methods) case study approach was employed in two sequential phases with Physical Science teachers at one secondary school in Keetmanshoop. Data were collected using document analysis (to strengthen my context). In the first phase, a questionnaire with closed-ended and open-ended questions was used to gather quantitative and qualitative data from 17 Physical Science teachers. Additionally, I conducted interviews with two Physical Science teachers from one Secondary School in Keetmanshoop who were selected based on their expertise, teaching experience and their qualifications. Quantitative data were analysed using frequency tables and graphs. For phase two, lesson and the practical demonstration observations were videotaped and transcribed inductively. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The study was informed by Vygotsky’s (1978) socio-cultural theory with a focus on the mediation of learning, social interactions and learner engagement within the learners’ Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) in conjunction with Shulman’s (1987) theory on pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). The findings of the study indicated that the majority of the Physical Science teachers were aware of and supported the inclusion of IK; on the other hand the teachers indicated some challenges that come with IK integration. Some teachers acknowledged the importance of IK, such as the enhancement of understanding, proving of theories, and arousal of interest and context relevance. However, some teachers felt that there are misconceptions in IK that can be carried into the classroom, IK resources like textbooks are not available, and IK is not integrated in the syllabus and examinations and lack of teacher training inter alia.The study recommends that the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture especially the Division of Curriculum Planning and Development (NIED) needs to explicitly include IK in the Syllabus documents and suggest the inclusion of IK in the textbooks to the publishers to address these challenges. In order to enhance the teaching and learning with IK in Science, it is critical that teachers’ training workshops are conducted and IK resources are designed so that IK integration can be successfully implemented. For that to happen, it is recognized that the teachers’ PCK should be regularly upgraded through Continuous Professional Development (CPD) by the Subject Advisors (SA) so that the teachers are consistently guided on appropriate teaching methodologies and pedagogies about the inclusion of IK.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Paulus, Demetria
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/17637 , vital:22266
- Description: Physical Science is one of the subjects in which learners perform poorly in most Namibian schools. For instance, in ║Kharas region where the study was conducted, from 2010 to 2016, the overall performance has ranged between 20-40%. Furthermore, according to the results analysis report from the Directorate of National, Examination and Assessments (DNEA), from 2012 to 2016, the ||Kharas region was ranked 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th and 10th in the regional rankings. From the Examiner’s reports, the most poorly answered questions in the National Senior Certificate examinations are those that require learners to explain and show understanding. Additionally, the reports highlighted that learners lack practical skills or lack exposure to experiments and demonstrations to enhance their understanding (Namibia, 20142015). It is against this background that this study sought to explore how teachers mediate learning of experimental techniques using fermentation and distillation of a traditional brew. In particular, the study addressed the following sub-questions:1) what are Grade 11 Physical Science teachers’ perceptions and experiences on the inclusion of indigenous knowledge during Science lessons? 2) What factors influence Grade 11 Physical Science teachers’ perceptions and experiences on the inclusion of indigenous knowledge? 3) How do Grade 11 Physical Science teachers teach experimental techniques conventionally- fermentation and distillation? 4) How does the inclusion of a practical demonstration on making Ombike enable or constrain Grade 11 Physical Science teachers when explaining concepts on experimental techniques - fermentation and distillation? Thus, the focus was on conceptual understanding through linking content to the context of the learners. The study was underpinned by an interpretive paradigm whose focus is on understanding people’s worldviews. Within the interpretive paradigm, a mixed methods (Quant-QUAL methods) case study approach was employed in two sequential phases with Physical Science teachers at one secondary school in Keetmanshoop. Data were collected using document analysis (to strengthen my context). In the first phase, a questionnaire with closed-ended and open-ended questions was used to gather quantitative and qualitative data from 17 Physical Science teachers. Additionally, I conducted interviews with two Physical Science teachers from one Secondary School in Keetmanshoop who were selected based on their expertise, teaching experience and their qualifications. Quantitative data were analysed using frequency tables and graphs. For phase two, lesson and the practical demonstration observations were videotaped and transcribed inductively. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The study was informed by Vygotsky’s (1978) socio-cultural theory with a focus on the mediation of learning, social interactions and learner engagement within the learners’ Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) in conjunction with Shulman’s (1987) theory on pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). The findings of the study indicated that the majority of the Physical Science teachers were aware of and supported the inclusion of IK; on the other hand the teachers indicated some challenges that come with IK integration. Some teachers acknowledged the importance of IK, such as the enhancement of understanding, proving of theories, and arousal of interest and context relevance. However, some teachers felt that there are misconceptions in IK that can be carried into the classroom, IK resources like textbooks are not available, and IK is not integrated in the syllabus and examinations and lack of teacher training inter alia.The study recommends that the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture especially the Division of Curriculum Planning and Development (NIED) needs to explicitly include IK in the Syllabus documents and suggest the inclusion of IK in the textbooks to the publishers to address these challenges. In order to enhance the teaching and learning with IK in Science, it is critical that teachers’ training workshops are conducted and IK resources are designed so that IK integration can be successfully implemented. For that to happen, it is recognized that the teachers’ PCK should be regularly upgraded through Continuous Professional Development (CPD) by the Subject Advisors (SA) so that the teachers are consistently guided on appropriate teaching methodologies and pedagogies about the inclusion of IK.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Garnishee orders as a tax collection tool: a critical review of the South African and Zimbabwean models
- Authors: Nzombe, Kudzanayi
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/8082 , vital:21352
- Description: Taxation statues of most jurisdictions contain provisions that deal with defaulting taxpayers. The taxation statutes of Zimbabwe and South Africa have employed the concept of garnishee orders as a method of recovering tax. This method is codified in the respective taxation statutes under the guise of “third party appointments”, or simply “appointment of an agent”. This method is very convenient and expeditious for the tax collection authorities, namely, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) and the South Africa Revenue Service (SARS). Other jurisdictions have also employed this method, with varying degrees of invasiveness into the taxpayers’ constitutional rights. The concept of garnishee orders can have negative constitutional implications for the taxpayers in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. In Zimbabwe, compared to South Africa, the tax collection field is not as developed in terms of jurisprudence and the legislation. There are lessons that Zimbabwe could learn from South Africa, considering that the latter has experienced more than two decades of constitutional democracy. Therefore, in order to identify areas for development, the two jurisdictions are critically reviewed, with particular attention to the legislative provisions and case law dealing with garnishee orders in the tax collection context. Approaches employed by other countries in relation to similar concepts and provisions are also analysed. The lessons learned from this analysis could suggest a less invasive method of recovering tax from defaulting taxpayers and an approach to be followed by the tax authorities, ZIMRA and SARS that would allow them to fulfil their responsibilities and mandate with taxpayer-friendly measures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nzombe, Kudzanayi
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/8082 , vital:21352
- Description: Taxation statues of most jurisdictions contain provisions that deal with defaulting taxpayers. The taxation statutes of Zimbabwe and South Africa have employed the concept of garnishee orders as a method of recovering tax. This method is codified in the respective taxation statutes under the guise of “third party appointments”, or simply “appointment of an agent”. This method is very convenient and expeditious for the tax collection authorities, namely, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) and the South Africa Revenue Service (SARS). Other jurisdictions have also employed this method, with varying degrees of invasiveness into the taxpayers’ constitutional rights. The concept of garnishee orders can have negative constitutional implications for the taxpayers in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. In Zimbabwe, compared to South Africa, the tax collection field is not as developed in terms of jurisprudence and the legislation. There are lessons that Zimbabwe could learn from South Africa, considering that the latter has experienced more than two decades of constitutional democracy. Therefore, in order to identify areas for development, the two jurisdictions are critically reviewed, with particular attention to the legislative provisions and case law dealing with garnishee orders in the tax collection context. Approaches employed by other countries in relation to similar concepts and provisions are also analysed. The lessons learned from this analysis could suggest a less invasive method of recovering tax from defaulting taxpayers and an approach to be followed by the tax authorities, ZIMRA and SARS that would allow them to fulfil their responsibilities and mandate with taxpayer-friendly measures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Synthesis and characterization of titanium dioxide nanotubes using electrochemical anodization technique for solar cell applications
- Authors: Lupiwana, Mpheleki
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Titanium dioxide Nanostructured materials Nanotubes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Chemistry
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11795 , vital:39107
- Description: High demand on energy conversion in dye-sensitized solar solar cells (DSSCs), requires development of well-organized TiO2 nanotube (TNT) structures because of their large surface area-to-volume ratio, superior lifetime and provision of optimal pathways for electron percolation. In this work TiO2 nanotube membranes with an average length of 2.40 μm and average pore diameter of 41.08 nm have been fabricated using electrochemical anodisation employing an organic electrolyte consisting of 0.5wt.percent NH4F + 3 vol percent H2O + Glycerol at an applied voltage of 60 V for 12 hours. The fabricated TNTs were annealed at different annealing temperatures. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that anodisation at these conditions yields nanotubes with periodic rings which present the roughness of the walls. Surface SEM images have revealed the presence of porous structures on the fabricated TNT membranes. Also evident from SEM cross-sectional images are multi-layered TiO2 nanotubes with top and bottom layers. The effect of annealing temperature on the structural, morphological and topographical has been investigated for TNTs. Surface SEM morphological analyses have revealed that the surface morphology of the annealed TNTs membranes changes with an increase in annealing temperature from 350°C to 650°C. The surface SEM analysis has revealed that as the annealing temperature increases the fabricated nanotubes deforms and collapses at annealing temperatures above 550°C. The TNTs annealed at 350°C have a modal pore size of 34.56 nm which is somewhat smaller compared to the TNTs annealed at 650°C with a modal pore size of 31.05 nm. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) topographical measurements have confirmed the presence of porous structure on the surface of the as-annealed TNTs with a modal pore diameter decreasing with increasing in annealing temperature. SEM-EDS analysis have revealed the presence of Ti, O and C and no other additional impurities. The presence of Ti and O confirms the successful electro-anodization of titanium metal sheets to TNTs. C must be due to glycerol electrolyte that got absorbed onto the TNTs structured during electro anodization. Structure investigation through X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis has revealed that as-anodised TNTs have peaks at 2Ɵ positions 35.62°, 39.02°, 40.76°, 53.55°, 63.49°, 71.14°, and 76.71° belonging to the amorphous phase of TiO2. Additionally XRD analysis has revealed that for the annealed samples in the temperature range from 350°C to 450°C have peaks at 24.66° (101), 27.11° (110) belonging Anatase and Rutile phase of TiO2 respectively. Confocal Raman Spectroscopy (CRM) image analysis through a large area scan, and Raman depth profiling have also been used to evaluate the phase changes in TNTs annealed at different temperatures. CRM large area scan and depth profiling has revealed the presence of Anatase phase of TiO2 with Raman vibration modes at 142.37 cm-1, 199.04 cm-1, 394.67 cm-1,516.16 cm-1 and 639.29 cm-1 and the presence of some Rutile phase of TiO2 peaks with Raman vibration modes at 445.26 cm-1 and 612.07 cm-1. These findings were correlated to the XRD analysis, SEM analysis as well as AFM. In XRD the transformation of Anatase to Rutile phase was observed as the annealing temperature increased, that was also supported by SEM analysis whereby nanotube structures collapsed and deformed as annealing temperature increased due to phase transformation. In AFM pore diameter decreased as annealing temperature increases, which was also due to the effect of phase transformation observed in XRD and CRM. These findings showed that TiO2 nanotube membranes were successfully fabricated, which may have wide applications in the development of electronic materials for the solar devices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lupiwana, Mpheleki
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Titanium dioxide Nanostructured materials Nanotubes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Chemistry
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11795 , vital:39107
- Description: High demand on energy conversion in dye-sensitized solar solar cells (DSSCs), requires development of well-organized TiO2 nanotube (TNT) structures because of their large surface area-to-volume ratio, superior lifetime and provision of optimal pathways for electron percolation. In this work TiO2 nanotube membranes with an average length of 2.40 μm and average pore diameter of 41.08 nm have been fabricated using electrochemical anodisation employing an organic electrolyte consisting of 0.5wt.percent NH4F + 3 vol percent H2O + Glycerol at an applied voltage of 60 V for 12 hours. The fabricated TNTs were annealed at different annealing temperatures. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that anodisation at these conditions yields nanotubes with periodic rings which present the roughness of the walls. Surface SEM images have revealed the presence of porous structures on the fabricated TNT membranes. Also evident from SEM cross-sectional images are multi-layered TiO2 nanotubes with top and bottom layers. The effect of annealing temperature on the structural, morphological and topographical has been investigated for TNTs. Surface SEM morphological analyses have revealed that the surface morphology of the annealed TNTs membranes changes with an increase in annealing temperature from 350°C to 650°C. The surface SEM analysis has revealed that as the annealing temperature increases the fabricated nanotubes deforms and collapses at annealing temperatures above 550°C. The TNTs annealed at 350°C have a modal pore size of 34.56 nm which is somewhat smaller compared to the TNTs annealed at 650°C with a modal pore size of 31.05 nm. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) topographical measurements have confirmed the presence of porous structure on the surface of the as-annealed TNTs with a modal pore diameter decreasing with increasing in annealing temperature. SEM-EDS analysis have revealed the presence of Ti, O and C and no other additional impurities. The presence of Ti and O confirms the successful electro-anodization of titanium metal sheets to TNTs. C must be due to glycerol electrolyte that got absorbed onto the TNTs structured during electro anodization. Structure investigation through X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis has revealed that as-anodised TNTs have peaks at 2Ɵ positions 35.62°, 39.02°, 40.76°, 53.55°, 63.49°, 71.14°, and 76.71° belonging to the amorphous phase of TiO2. Additionally XRD analysis has revealed that for the annealed samples in the temperature range from 350°C to 450°C have peaks at 24.66° (101), 27.11° (110) belonging Anatase and Rutile phase of TiO2 respectively. Confocal Raman Spectroscopy (CRM) image analysis through a large area scan, and Raman depth profiling have also been used to evaluate the phase changes in TNTs annealed at different temperatures. CRM large area scan and depth profiling has revealed the presence of Anatase phase of TiO2 with Raman vibration modes at 142.37 cm-1, 199.04 cm-1, 394.67 cm-1,516.16 cm-1 and 639.29 cm-1 and the presence of some Rutile phase of TiO2 peaks with Raman vibration modes at 445.26 cm-1 and 612.07 cm-1. These findings were correlated to the XRD analysis, SEM analysis as well as AFM. In XRD the transformation of Anatase to Rutile phase was observed as the annealing temperature increased, that was also supported by SEM analysis whereby nanotube structures collapsed and deformed as annealing temperature increased due to phase transformation. In AFM pore diameter decreased as annealing temperature increases, which was also due to the effect of phase transformation observed in XRD and CRM. These findings showed that TiO2 nanotube membranes were successfully fabricated, which may have wide applications in the development of electronic materials for the solar devices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
"Let loose in the unthinkable unspeakable": waiting and alterity in Samuel Beckett's trilogy
- Authors: Marais, Jessica
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3917 , vital:20557
- Description: In this thesis, I examine the interrelated roles of waiting and alterity in Samuel Beckett's trilogy of novels: Molloy, Malone Dies and The Unnamable. The conventional understanding of waiting is as an intentional relationship between a waiting subject and an awaited object. This kind of waiting is end-directed, and, in order for it to be worthwhile, the awaited must, at some point, arrive. In the trilogy, however, the awaited never does arrive, and it is my contention that the novels are concerned with an unconventional kind of waiting, which, being without object or end, takes the form of a non-intentional relationship between waiter and awaited. Significantly, through the non-intentional wait, the subject awaits the unawaited. She or he thereby encounters the radically other, or that which cannot be rendered familiar or assimilated in any way – an unthinkable, unspeakable, ungraspable excess that overflows the limits of thought and language. The texts foreground the vexed question of response to such alterity: how can one approach the ungraspable as ungraspable, when it is in the nature of any approach to attempt to grasp? I argue that the texts explore a paradoxical form of "incurious seeking" as an avenue to accommodate the absolutely other.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Marais, Jessica
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3917 , vital:20557
- Description: In this thesis, I examine the interrelated roles of waiting and alterity in Samuel Beckett's trilogy of novels: Molloy, Malone Dies and The Unnamable. The conventional understanding of waiting is as an intentional relationship between a waiting subject and an awaited object. This kind of waiting is end-directed, and, in order for it to be worthwhile, the awaited must, at some point, arrive. In the trilogy, however, the awaited never does arrive, and it is my contention that the novels are concerned with an unconventional kind of waiting, which, being without object or end, takes the form of a non-intentional relationship between waiter and awaited. Significantly, through the non-intentional wait, the subject awaits the unawaited. She or he thereby encounters the radically other, or that which cannot be rendered familiar or assimilated in any way – an unthinkable, unspeakable, ungraspable excess that overflows the limits of thought and language. The texts foreground the vexed question of response to such alterity: how can one approach the ungraspable as ungraspable, when it is in the nature of any approach to attempt to grasp? I argue that the texts explore a paradoxical form of "incurious seeking" as an avenue to accommodate the absolutely other.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An assessment of the small-scale fisheries in the Kogelberg district of the Western Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Jordan, Tia
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/997 , vital:20011
- Description: Small-scale fisheries play a critical role in communities by contributing to food security, poverty alleviation and source of income. The study focused on the Kleinmond small-scale fishery and estimated the current economic value of the fishery as well as exploring the potential for increasing this and also whether it is being used in a way that ensures sustainable harvesting of the marine resources. It was important to evaluate the ecological, economic and social dimensions of the fishing community in order to address the problems currently facing the community. The study draws on previous research done in the Kleinmond area. Data were collected to update and complement previous research and addresses current research. In order to investigate the fisheries catch contribution in the area, data were obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Three different questionnaires were developed and conducted in face-to-face formal and informal interviews with the various stakeholders (n=42) in the value-chain. Interviews were also conducted telephonically with other stakeholders and a focus group was formed to supplement previous available data. Simple economic models were developed for the fisheries working from the Kleinmond harbour, which were used to estimate the gross and net economic value of catches for individual right-holders, as well as the Kleinmond area as a whole. The economic models used in this study showed that the West Coast rock lobster Jasus lalandii, fishery was the primary source of income for small-scale fishers. This was due to the rock lobsters being sold to the export market as a high-valued commodity, whereas the linefish were sold to the local market as a lower-valued commodity. However, linefish were found to be more of a commodity to the community as a portion would be retained for personal consumption. The linefishers were concerned in that over the past couple of years, snoek Thrysites atun have been absent the Kleinmond area, resulting in and the fishing effort shifting to a resident species Cape bream Pachymetopon blochii. Whereas West Coast rock lobster were considered to be harvested sustainably under the current total allowable catch strategy, there was concern for the future of the fishery because of the occurrence of illegal fishing, both locally and nationally. Small-scale fisheries in the Kleinmond community are largely dependent on fishing resources, even though the industry is only marginally profitable. Future management measures should concentrate on optimising the value-chain to provide both sustainability for the resources and improve the livelihoods of the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jordan, Tia
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/997 , vital:20011
- Description: Small-scale fisheries play a critical role in communities by contributing to food security, poverty alleviation and source of income. The study focused on the Kleinmond small-scale fishery and estimated the current economic value of the fishery as well as exploring the potential for increasing this and also whether it is being used in a way that ensures sustainable harvesting of the marine resources. It was important to evaluate the ecological, economic and social dimensions of the fishing community in order to address the problems currently facing the community. The study draws on previous research done in the Kleinmond area. Data were collected to update and complement previous research and addresses current research. In order to investigate the fisheries catch contribution in the area, data were obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Three different questionnaires were developed and conducted in face-to-face formal and informal interviews with the various stakeholders (n=42) in the value-chain. Interviews were also conducted telephonically with other stakeholders and a focus group was formed to supplement previous available data. Simple economic models were developed for the fisheries working from the Kleinmond harbour, which were used to estimate the gross and net economic value of catches for individual right-holders, as well as the Kleinmond area as a whole. The economic models used in this study showed that the West Coast rock lobster Jasus lalandii, fishery was the primary source of income for small-scale fishers. This was due to the rock lobsters being sold to the export market as a high-valued commodity, whereas the linefish were sold to the local market as a lower-valued commodity. However, linefish were found to be more of a commodity to the community as a portion would be retained for personal consumption. The linefishers were concerned in that over the past couple of years, snoek Thrysites atun have been absent the Kleinmond area, resulting in and the fishing effort shifting to a resident species Cape bream Pachymetopon blochii. Whereas West Coast rock lobster were considered to be harvested sustainably under the current total allowable catch strategy, there was concern for the future of the fishery because of the occurrence of illegal fishing, both locally and nationally. Small-scale fisheries in the Kleinmond community are largely dependent on fishing resources, even though the industry is only marginally profitable. Future management measures should concentrate on optimising the value-chain to provide both sustainability for the resources and improve the livelihoods of the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An evaluation of the implementation of Mercedes Benz production system (MPS) and the employee change readiness at Mercedes Benz commercial vehicles South Africa
- Authors: McAllister, Rozane Ronardo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft , Organizational change -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Employees -- Attitudes , Continuous improvement process -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:850 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017518
- Description: The evaluation report section describes the evaluation of the implementation of Mercedes Benz Production System (MPS) at Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles, which is a division of Mercedes Benz South Africa’s manufacturing plant situated in East London. The section evaluates the changes the implementation of MPS brought to the Key Performance Indicators (KPI’S) of the division and evaluates the change readiness of the employees in the division prior to the change. The change implementation was initiated by the management of MBCV as a strategic organisational change to bring about continuous improvement to the KPI’s of the organisation. These KPI’s are Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and Morale (SQDCM). The reason behind the change at the time was deemed critical to MBCV in order to meet the annual KPI targets and remain cost competitive and sustainable. The evaluation report further describes the results of the change with regards to the organisational KPI’s and the level of employee change readiness which was conducted through a questionnaire survey. A brief literature review is included in the Evaluation Report under section one describing key concepts about Production Systems, Lean Manufacturing and Change Management. The evaluation section includes recommendations based on the results of the research findings and ends with a conclusion. The literature review section explores the literature that supports production systems, lean manufacturing and change management concepts, its definitions, importance and benefits. The literature review describes and critiques key concepts of the research such as productions systems, MPS in particular, lean manufacturing concepts and related change management topics relevant to the research. The literature review defines production systems and the concepts of lean manufacturing, highlighting the benefits of the concepts to enhance organisations’ manufacturing capabilities. An integrated part of lean manufacturing is people and the implementation of lean manufacturing into an organisation requires change management theories therefore key understanding in this particular research was to discuss change management concepts, in particular, employee change readiness. The literature will discuss different tools to assess employee change readiness and from this develop an employee change readiness tool. The change management concepts evaluated change readiness and the consequences if organisations are not ready for change. The research methodology section describes how that the research was conducted in two phases, one to evaluate the implementation of MPS with regards to the organisational KPI’s (SQDCM). This was assessed through reports from projects and presentations made by the project teams on improvements of the organisational KPI’s. The second phase evaluated the change readiness of the employees prior to the implementation of MPS. This phase of the research was intended to retrieve quantitative data with an adapted questionnaire which was distributed to employees. To evaluate the change readiness, a change model known as ADKAR was used as an evaluation instrument. The modified ADKAR questionnaire was distributed to employees in hard copies and completed during a weekly team meeting. The results were summarised and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the final results. Microsoft Excel (2010 version) was used to illustrate and display the graphs. Section three discussed the research methodology in more detail. The study shows that although there were some positive changes that came from the implementation of MPS in MBCV, especially to the following KPI’s (Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost), real consideration should be given to employee morale and the level of change readiness of MBCV employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: McAllister, Rozane Ronardo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft , Organizational change -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Employees -- Attitudes , Continuous improvement process -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:850 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017518
- Description: The evaluation report section describes the evaluation of the implementation of Mercedes Benz Production System (MPS) at Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles, which is a division of Mercedes Benz South Africa’s manufacturing plant situated in East London. The section evaluates the changes the implementation of MPS brought to the Key Performance Indicators (KPI’S) of the division and evaluates the change readiness of the employees in the division prior to the change. The change implementation was initiated by the management of MBCV as a strategic organisational change to bring about continuous improvement to the KPI’s of the organisation. These KPI’s are Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and Morale (SQDCM). The reason behind the change at the time was deemed critical to MBCV in order to meet the annual KPI targets and remain cost competitive and sustainable. The evaluation report further describes the results of the change with regards to the organisational KPI’s and the level of employee change readiness which was conducted through a questionnaire survey. A brief literature review is included in the Evaluation Report under section one describing key concepts about Production Systems, Lean Manufacturing and Change Management. The evaluation section includes recommendations based on the results of the research findings and ends with a conclusion. The literature review section explores the literature that supports production systems, lean manufacturing and change management concepts, its definitions, importance and benefits. The literature review describes and critiques key concepts of the research such as productions systems, MPS in particular, lean manufacturing concepts and related change management topics relevant to the research. The literature review defines production systems and the concepts of lean manufacturing, highlighting the benefits of the concepts to enhance organisations’ manufacturing capabilities. An integrated part of lean manufacturing is people and the implementation of lean manufacturing into an organisation requires change management theories therefore key understanding in this particular research was to discuss change management concepts, in particular, employee change readiness. The literature will discuss different tools to assess employee change readiness and from this develop an employee change readiness tool. The change management concepts evaluated change readiness and the consequences if organisations are not ready for change. The research methodology section describes how that the research was conducted in two phases, one to evaluate the implementation of MPS with regards to the organisational KPI’s (SQDCM). This was assessed through reports from projects and presentations made by the project teams on improvements of the organisational KPI’s. The second phase evaluated the change readiness of the employees prior to the implementation of MPS. This phase of the research was intended to retrieve quantitative data with an adapted questionnaire which was distributed to employees. To evaluate the change readiness, a change model known as ADKAR was used as an evaluation instrument. The modified ADKAR questionnaire was distributed to employees in hard copies and completed during a weekly team meeting. The results were summarised and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the final results. Microsoft Excel (2010 version) was used to illustrate and display the graphs. Section three discussed the research methodology in more detail. The study shows that although there were some positive changes that came from the implementation of MPS in MBCV, especially to the following KPI’s (Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost), real consideration should be given to employee morale and the level of change readiness of MBCV employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation into the nature of mathematical connections selected grade 7 teachers make when teaching fractions : a Namibian case study.
- Authors: Amupolo, Loide M
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Namibia , Fractions -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016374
- Description: The general understanding of mathematics as a subject and its implications is, in reality alarmingly low. Evidence of this is evident in learners’ performance and their reaction towards the subject. Fractions as a domain of Mathematics are no exception. The majority of the learners do not learn Fractions comfortably. The causes of this may be varied. However, it is believed that one way of ensuring meaningful teaching and learning is to make use of appropriate connections. The significance and the important role of the teacher in making mathematical connections in learning for understanding are well documented in the literature. This study focuses on the nature of mathematical connections selected Grade 7 teachers make when teaching Fractions, as well as their perceptions of the importance of making such connections. This qualitative case study was conducted in three schools in the Oshana region. The purpose was to investigate how mathematics teachers make connections in fractions. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, the study made use of observations and interviews to generate data. The framework borrowed from Businkas’ (2008) study was used in analysing and coding the nature of connections used in the lessons observed. An individual conversation on the nature and perceptions of the connections made in the observed lessons was undertaken with each teacher followed by a focus group discussion that aimed at analysing deeper perceptions on connections. The main findings of the study revealed that teachers made use of all the different types of connections as per Businkas’s framework. The frequency of occurrence showed that Instruction-Oriented Connection and Multiple Representation connections topped the list of connections used. Teachers pointed out that connections to prior knowledge and making multiple representations were most significant, as they related to learners’ existing knowledge and pointed to different ways of solving a problem. The teachers were, however, not familiar with the other connections identified as this was their first experience of interrogating connections. They, however, agreed on the importance of making those connections. The teachers agreed that meaningful connections indeed helped with their conceptual understanding of Mathematics. They believed that connections can increase learners’ interest in school and help reduce negative views of fractions, in particular, and mathematics in general. However, they felt that the limited number of resources, poor teaching approaches and the inability of creating fraction sense may hinder them from making appropriate connections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Amupolo, Loide M
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Namibia , Fractions -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016374
- Description: The general understanding of mathematics as a subject and its implications is, in reality alarmingly low. Evidence of this is evident in learners’ performance and their reaction towards the subject. Fractions as a domain of Mathematics are no exception. The majority of the learners do not learn Fractions comfortably. The causes of this may be varied. However, it is believed that one way of ensuring meaningful teaching and learning is to make use of appropriate connections. The significance and the important role of the teacher in making mathematical connections in learning for understanding are well documented in the literature. This study focuses on the nature of mathematical connections selected Grade 7 teachers make when teaching Fractions, as well as their perceptions of the importance of making such connections. This qualitative case study was conducted in three schools in the Oshana region. The purpose was to investigate how mathematics teachers make connections in fractions. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, the study made use of observations and interviews to generate data. The framework borrowed from Businkas’ (2008) study was used in analysing and coding the nature of connections used in the lessons observed. An individual conversation on the nature and perceptions of the connections made in the observed lessons was undertaken with each teacher followed by a focus group discussion that aimed at analysing deeper perceptions on connections. The main findings of the study revealed that teachers made use of all the different types of connections as per Businkas’s framework. The frequency of occurrence showed that Instruction-Oriented Connection and Multiple Representation connections topped the list of connections used. Teachers pointed out that connections to prior knowledge and making multiple representations were most significant, as they related to learners’ existing knowledge and pointed to different ways of solving a problem. The teachers were, however, not familiar with the other connections identified as this was their first experience of interrogating connections. They, however, agreed on the importance of making those connections. The teachers agreed that meaningful connections indeed helped with their conceptual understanding of Mathematics. They believed that connections can increase learners’ interest in school and help reduce negative views of fractions, in particular, and mathematics in general. However, they felt that the limited number of resources, poor teaching approaches and the inability of creating fraction sense may hinder them from making appropriate connections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Altering urbanscapes: South African writers re-imagining Johannesburg, with specific reference to Lauren Beukes, K. Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Phaswane Mpe
- Authors: Fryer, Jocelyn Teri
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Novelists, South African , Johannesburg (South Africa) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020877
- Description: The following dissertation considers the ways in which we have come to perceive of our post-apartheid South African urban spaces. It focusses on the representation of our contemporary urban spaces as I posit that they are re-imagined in the works of Phaswane Mpe, K.Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Lauren Beukes. In particular, it is concerned with the representation of Johannesburg, and specifically Hillbrow, in relation to the space of the rural, the suburban enclave and the city of Cape Town. I argue that while so-called urban ‘slums’ such as Hillbrow have been denigrated in the local imaginary, the texts that I have selected draw attention to the potentialities of such spaces. Rather than aspiring to ‘First World’ aesthetics of modernity then, we might come to see such spaces as Hillbrow anew, and even to learn from them as models, so as to better create more fully integrated and dynamic African cities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Fryer, Jocelyn Teri
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Novelists, South African , Johannesburg (South Africa) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020877
- Description: The following dissertation considers the ways in which we have come to perceive of our post-apartheid South African urban spaces. It focusses on the representation of our contemporary urban spaces as I posit that they are re-imagined in the works of Phaswane Mpe, K.Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Lauren Beukes. In particular, it is concerned with the representation of Johannesburg, and specifically Hillbrow, in relation to the space of the rural, the suburban enclave and the city of Cape Town. I argue that while so-called urban ‘slums’ such as Hillbrow have been denigrated in the local imaginary, the texts that I have selected draw attention to the potentialities of such spaces. Rather than aspiring to ‘First World’ aesthetics of modernity then, we might come to see such spaces as Hillbrow anew, and even to learn from them as models, so as to better create more fully integrated and dynamic African cities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An analysis of the correlation beween packet loss and network delay on the perfomance of congested networks and their impact: case study University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Lutshete, Sizwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer network protocols -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Packet switching (Data transmission) , Cactus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network analysis (Planning) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network performance (Telecommunication) , Network Time Protocol (Computer network protocol)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006843 , Computer network protocols -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Packet switching (Data transmission) , Cactus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network analysis (Planning) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network performance (Telecommunication) , Network Time Protocol (Computer network protocol)
- Description: In this paper we study packet delay and loss rate at the University of Fort Hare network. The focus of this paper is to evaluate the information derived from a multipoint measurement of, University of Fort Hare network which will be collected for a duration of three Months during June 2011 to August 2011 at the TSC uplink and Ethernet hubs outside and inside relative to the Internet firewall host. The specific value of this data set lies in the end to end instrumentation of all devices operating at the packet level, combined with the duration of observation. We will provide measures for the normal day−to−day operation of the University of fort hare network both at off-peak and during peak hours. We expect to show the impact of delay and loss rate at the University of Fort Hare network. The data set will include a number of areas, where service quality (delay and packet loss) is extreme, moderate, good and we will examine the causes and impacts on network users.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Lutshete, Sizwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer network protocols -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Packet switching (Data transmission) , Cactus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network analysis (Planning) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network performance (Telecommunication) , Network Time Protocol (Computer network protocol)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006843 , Computer network protocols -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Packet switching (Data transmission) , Cactus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network analysis (Planning) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Network performance (Telecommunication) , Network Time Protocol (Computer network protocol)
- Description: In this paper we study packet delay and loss rate at the University of Fort Hare network. The focus of this paper is to evaluate the information derived from a multipoint measurement of, University of Fort Hare network which will be collected for a duration of three Months during June 2011 to August 2011 at the TSC uplink and Ethernet hubs outside and inside relative to the Internet firewall host. The specific value of this data set lies in the end to end instrumentation of all devices operating at the packet level, combined with the duration of observation. We will provide measures for the normal day−to−day operation of the University of fort hare network both at off-peak and during peak hours. We expect to show the impact of delay and loss rate at the University of Fort Hare network. The data set will include a number of areas, where service quality (delay and packet loss) is extreme, moderate, good and we will examine the causes and impacts on network users.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Explorative study on the efficacy of the Total Quality Management System as a performance enhancement instrument: the case of Walter Sisulu University (Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa)
- Authors: Gwele, Xolani
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11681 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013544
- Description: With the advent of a democratic South Africa in 1994, national public administration has effected reforms to improve government performance and service delivery. The importance of education for the development of excellence, expertise and knowledge leading to overall development in economy cannot be undermined. This has necessitated a sound strategy for the development of higher education in South Africa. Establishing leadership in this country is possible only when there is a developed system of higher education in which efficiency remains the sole criteria to evaluate performance. Higher education institutions are faced with an increasing number of complex challenges including implementing and maintaining a quality management system. This study seeks to explore the efficacy of total quality management as the performance enhancement instrument at Walter Sisulu University, in the Eastern Cape Province – South Africa. Relevant literature regarding quality, quality assurance, total quality management and performance management has been reviewed in order to establish and test if this study is researchable. Interviews with students have been conducted in order understand a sense of student perception towards quality assurance in the university. Observations and Staff questionnaires have been used to collect more data on total quality management and performance management system. The data collected is analysed and interpreted in chapter four and chapter five provides for findings and recommendations in concluding this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gwele, Xolani
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11681 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013544
- Description: With the advent of a democratic South Africa in 1994, national public administration has effected reforms to improve government performance and service delivery. The importance of education for the development of excellence, expertise and knowledge leading to overall development in economy cannot be undermined. This has necessitated a sound strategy for the development of higher education in South Africa. Establishing leadership in this country is possible only when there is a developed system of higher education in which efficiency remains the sole criteria to evaluate performance. Higher education institutions are faced with an increasing number of complex challenges including implementing and maintaining a quality management system. This study seeks to explore the efficacy of total quality management as the performance enhancement instrument at Walter Sisulu University, in the Eastern Cape Province – South Africa. Relevant literature regarding quality, quality assurance, total quality management and performance management has been reviewed in order to establish and test if this study is researchable. Interviews with students have been conducted in order understand a sense of student perception towards quality assurance in the university. Observations and Staff questionnaires have been used to collect more data on total quality management and performance management system. The data collected is analysed and interpreted in chapter four and chapter five provides for findings and recommendations in concluding this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Rural livelihoods and adherence to HIV and AIDS antiretroviral therapy in Chivanhu Settlement, Nemamwa Village in Masvingo District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Wapinduka, Tendai
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo Rural development -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo Antiretroviral agents -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3336 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003743
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic has had massive detrimental impacts on rural communities across Africa including in Zimbabwe. In response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic, the government of Zimbabwe has developed and adopted comprehensive programmes to address HIV and AIDS prevention, care and support. One of the critical components of these programmes relates specifically to treatment of the HIV infected given that HIV and AIDS is increasingly seen as a manageable threatening disease. However the success and effectiveness of the treatment regimen (involving antiretroviral drugs or ARVs) is dependent heavily on complete adherence to the rigid and complex regimens. It is against this background that this thesis studies a particular rural community in Zimbabwe called Chivanhu (in Masvingo Province) in terms of the relationship between rural livelihoods and HIV and AIDS (particularly HIV treatment and treatment adherence). Unlike other rural communities (notably in communal areas), Chivanhu is an informal and unstable community with a turbulent history. Most rural studies of HIV and AIDS in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in the region have focused on well-established and stable communities in which agricultural production is still of some significance. In such communities, the impact of HIV and AIDS on livelihoods is severe but, in more informal settlements, the vulnerability of households to the epidemic (and challenges pertaining to treatment adherence) is even more pronounced. Using a rural livelihoods framework, this thesis seeks to identify, understand and analyse the conditions which shape levels of adherence to HIV and AIDS in the informalsettlement of Chivanhu in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Wapinduka, Tendai
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo Rural development -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo Antiretroviral agents -- Zimbabwe -- Masvingo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3336 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003743
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic has had massive detrimental impacts on rural communities across Africa including in Zimbabwe. In response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic, the government of Zimbabwe has developed and adopted comprehensive programmes to address HIV and AIDS prevention, care and support. One of the critical components of these programmes relates specifically to treatment of the HIV infected given that HIV and AIDS is increasingly seen as a manageable threatening disease. However the success and effectiveness of the treatment regimen (involving antiretroviral drugs or ARVs) is dependent heavily on complete adherence to the rigid and complex regimens. It is against this background that this thesis studies a particular rural community in Zimbabwe called Chivanhu (in Masvingo Province) in terms of the relationship between rural livelihoods and HIV and AIDS (particularly HIV treatment and treatment adherence). Unlike other rural communities (notably in communal areas), Chivanhu is an informal and unstable community with a turbulent history. Most rural studies of HIV and AIDS in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in the region have focused on well-established and stable communities in which agricultural production is still of some significance. In such communities, the impact of HIV and AIDS on livelihoods is severe but, in more informal settlements, the vulnerability of households to the epidemic (and challenges pertaining to treatment adherence) is even more pronounced. Using a rural livelihoods framework, this thesis seeks to identify, understand and analyse the conditions which shape levels of adherence to HIV and AIDS in the informalsettlement of Chivanhu in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An exploration of entrepreneurship within established family businesses in Grahamstown
- Authors: Lancaster, Talia Grace Palm
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Entrepreneurship -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Small business -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3006 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002515
- Description: Family businesses make up a large number of businesses in South Africa, although they are not often researched. Many of these family businesses are SME (Small and Medium Enterprises), however they contribute substantially to the local economy, as well as job creation. Despite their extensive presence there is a very poor success rate of family businesses. One of the reasons for their low success rate could be the seemingly increased conservative nature of family businesses over time. Thus, a look into entrepreneurial processes, which promote adaptation, innovation and learning, may give family businesses a competitive advantage. An Abbreviated Grounded Theory approach was used to explore the presence, if any, of entrepreneurial processes within established family businesses in Grahamstown. Two generations of family owners as well as a non-family employee across four local businesses were interviewed. The results show that all four business show signs of entrepreneurship within their business, these include: risk taking, creativity, active competition, opportunity grasping and change. Previous generations within the business also showed signs of learning new technology, in turn the new generations learnt from the experience that their parents have had in the businesses. The results show that family businesses are capable of change, adaptation and learning, thus it may enable consultants and future researchers to strengthen family businesses across generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Lancaster, Talia Grace Palm
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Entrepreneurship -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Small business -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3006 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002515
- Description: Family businesses make up a large number of businesses in South Africa, although they are not often researched. Many of these family businesses are SME (Small and Medium Enterprises), however they contribute substantially to the local economy, as well as job creation. Despite their extensive presence there is a very poor success rate of family businesses. One of the reasons for their low success rate could be the seemingly increased conservative nature of family businesses over time. Thus, a look into entrepreneurial processes, which promote adaptation, innovation and learning, may give family businesses a competitive advantage. An Abbreviated Grounded Theory approach was used to explore the presence, if any, of entrepreneurial processes within established family businesses in Grahamstown. Two generations of family owners as well as a non-family employee across four local businesses were interviewed. The results show that all four business show signs of entrepreneurship within their business, these include: risk taking, creativity, active competition, opportunity grasping and change. Previous generations within the business also showed signs of learning new technology, in turn the new generations learnt from the experience that their parents have had in the businesses. The results show that family businesses are capable of change, adaptation and learning, thus it may enable consultants and future researchers to strengthen family businesses across generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Investigating factors inhibiting the implementation of IQMS in a South African school
- Authors: Mji, Lwazi Knowledge
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Evaluation Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1586 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003468
- Description: After the 1994 elections education reform has been characterized by the introduction of laws and policies, including IQMS, that seek to reconcile post‐apartheid traditions to practices that would address deficiencies borne by the era in the education field. The IQMS is a clear reaction to the autocratic mode of evaluation that operated during the apartheid era and is a major shift from the old paradigm of external evaluators. It was designed to review performance and identify strengths and weaknesses, encouraging personal and professional development, drawing on peer and collegial feedback rather than official Department of Education surveillance. However, recent studies have shown that the IQMS has failed and is failing to achieve what it was intended to achieve. This study examines the reasons for this failure in a secondary school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This research is an interpretive case study that uses observation, document analysis and interviews utilising theories of learning organizations, management and leadership. The study reveals that the policy is not applied in the way it was intended and is failing in this regard. The policy process has been bureaucratised and suffers from superficial compliance. The developmental thrust of the policy seems to have been lost. It was also discovered that the involvement of teacher unions has both positively and negatively affected the implementation process and that the support schools receive from the department is not enough to keep the policy alive in schools. This research is likely to benefit school principals, policy makers and implementers, and IQMS coordinators, as it provides clarity on the issues restraining IQMS implementation in schools. The study also demonstrates the need for school principals to consider adopting transformational leadership as a strategy to lead teachers against political influence and expose them to professional development opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mji, Lwazi Knowledge
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Evaluation Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Teacher effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1586 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003468
- Description: After the 1994 elections education reform has been characterized by the introduction of laws and policies, including IQMS, that seek to reconcile post‐apartheid traditions to practices that would address deficiencies borne by the era in the education field. The IQMS is a clear reaction to the autocratic mode of evaluation that operated during the apartheid era and is a major shift from the old paradigm of external evaluators. It was designed to review performance and identify strengths and weaknesses, encouraging personal and professional development, drawing on peer and collegial feedback rather than official Department of Education surveillance. However, recent studies have shown that the IQMS has failed and is failing to achieve what it was intended to achieve. This study examines the reasons for this failure in a secondary school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This research is an interpretive case study that uses observation, document analysis and interviews utilising theories of learning organizations, management and leadership. The study reveals that the policy is not applied in the way it was intended and is failing in this regard. The policy process has been bureaucratised and suffers from superficial compliance. The developmental thrust of the policy seems to have been lost. It was also discovered that the involvement of teacher unions has both positively and negatively affected the implementation process and that the support schools receive from the department is not enough to keep the policy alive in schools. This research is likely to benefit school principals, policy makers and implementers, and IQMS coordinators, as it provides clarity on the issues restraining IQMS implementation in schools. The study also demonstrates the need for school principals to consider adopting transformational leadership as a strategy to lead teachers against political influence and expose them to professional development opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Macroeconomic determinants of stock market behaviour in South Africa
- Authors: Junkin, Kyle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Stocks -- Prices -- South Africa Macroeconomics Risk management -- South Africa Stock exchanges -- South Africa Interest rates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002751
- Description: This study investigates whether stock prices in South Africa are influenced by macroeconomic variables, and furthermore, the effects of financial crises on stock prices. The relationship between stock prices and the macroeconomy is a particularly important issue for investors, since a thorough understanding of such a relationship is likely to yield profitable or risk mitigating opportunities. Using monthly data for the period 1995 to 2010 the study focused at a macro level using the FTSE/JSE All Share Index, and at a micro level using sector indices. These included the construction and materials, financial, food producers’, general retailers, industrial, mining and pharmaceuticals indices. The Johansen and Juselius (1990) multivariate cointegration approach was employed, along with impulse response and variance decomposition tests to address the issue. The results showed that macroeconomic variables do have a significant influence on stock prices in South Africa. Also, the influences of these variables were found to have an inconsistent effect across the sectors under investigation. For example, inflation was found to negatively influence the All Share Index, but impacted the industrial index positively. These inconsistent influences on the various sectors were seen to have important diversification implications for investors. The impact of past financial crises proved to be significant on certain indices, however, indices such as that of the pharmaceuticals sector was found to be largely unaffected by such crises. The findings of the study were discussed through an investor’s perspective, and recommendations on investment decisions were given. The limitations of the study were such that certain results may have been influenced by a mis-specification of variables, particularly the Treasury bill rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Junkin, Kyle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Stocks -- Prices -- South Africa Macroeconomics Risk management -- South Africa Stock exchanges -- South Africa Interest rates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002751
- Description: This study investigates whether stock prices in South Africa are influenced by macroeconomic variables, and furthermore, the effects of financial crises on stock prices. The relationship between stock prices and the macroeconomy is a particularly important issue for investors, since a thorough understanding of such a relationship is likely to yield profitable or risk mitigating opportunities. Using monthly data for the period 1995 to 2010 the study focused at a macro level using the FTSE/JSE All Share Index, and at a micro level using sector indices. These included the construction and materials, financial, food producers’, general retailers, industrial, mining and pharmaceuticals indices. The Johansen and Juselius (1990) multivariate cointegration approach was employed, along with impulse response and variance decomposition tests to address the issue. The results showed that macroeconomic variables do have a significant influence on stock prices in South Africa. Also, the influences of these variables were found to have an inconsistent effect across the sectors under investigation. For example, inflation was found to negatively influence the All Share Index, but impacted the industrial index positively. These inconsistent influences on the various sectors were seen to have important diversification implications for investors. The impact of past financial crises proved to be significant on certain indices, however, indices such as that of the pharmaceuticals sector was found to be largely unaffected by such crises. The findings of the study were discussed through an investor’s perspective, and recommendations on investment decisions were given. The limitations of the study were such that certain results may have been influenced by a mis-specification of variables, particularly the Treasury bill rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Adult adjustment and independent functioning in individuals who were raised in a children's home
- Authors: Bond, Susan Jane
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Child welfare , Foster children -- Counseling of , Children -- Institutional care , Adjustment (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9994 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008161 , Child welfare , Foster children -- Counseling of , Children -- Institutional care , Adjustment (Psychology)
- Description: Children are placed in a children’s home when a Presiding Officer finds them to be in need of care and when there is no viable community placement alternative. The body of literature on children’s homes focuses primarily on the negative effects and outcomes of such statutory placement. The assertion that children who grew up in children’s homes will continue to use the services of welfare organisations in adulthood, is supported by the researcher’s observation as a practicing social worker. This, and the study of available literature, resulted in this qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual research study with the following goal: to enhance the understanding of how intervention programmes at children’s homes can contribute to adult adjustment and independent functioning of those children in their care. A purposive sampling method was used to identify ten participants who had spent at least 2 years in a children’s home and who had been discharged from the children’s home at least 5 years ago (to the date of data collection). The sample was drawn from clients at non governmental social welfare agencies who fitted the sampling criteria. The data was collected via semi-structured interviews using an interview guide, which were recorded, transcribed and then analysed using a thematic content analysis approach. The results of the study may be used to develop and implement meaningful intervention strategies for individuals placed in children’s homes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Bond, Susan Jane
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Child welfare , Foster children -- Counseling of , Children -- Institutional care , Adjustment (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9994 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008161 , Child welfare , Foster children -- Counseling of , Children -- Institutional care , Adjustment (Psychology)
- Description: Children are placed in a children’s home when a Presiding Officer finds them to be in need of care and when there is no viable community placement alternative. The body of literature on children’s homes focuses primarily on the negative effects and outcomes of such statutory placement. The assertion that children who grew up in children’s homes will continue to use the services of welfare organisations in adulthood, is supported by the researcher’s observation as a practicing social worker. This, and the study of available literature, resulted in this qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual research study with the following goal: to enhance the understanding of how intervention programmes at children’s homes can contribute to adult adjustment and independent functioning of those children in their care. A purposive sampling method was used to identify ten participants who had spent at least 2 years in a children’s home and who had been discharged from the children’s home at least 5 years ago (to the date of data collection). The sample was drawn from clients at non governmental social welfare agencies who fitted the sampling criteria. The data was collected via semi-structured interviews using an interview guide, which were recorded, transcribed and then analysed using a thematic content analysis approach. The results of the study may be used to develop and implement meaningful intervention strategies for individuals placed in children’s homes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010