Religious nationalism and negotiation : Islamic identity and the resolution of the Israel/Palestine conflic
- Authors: De Villiers, Shirley
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Arab-Israeli conflict Palestinian Arabs -- Civil rights -- Israel Nationalism -- Middle East Religion and politics -- Middle East Jewish-Arab relations Nationalism -- Religious aspects -- Islam -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007815
- Description: The use of violence in the Israel/Palestine conflict has been justified and legitimised by an appeal to religion. Militant Islamist organisations like Ramas have become central players in the Palestinian political landscape as a result of the popular support that they enjoy. This thesis aims to investigate the reasons for this support by analysing the Israel/Palestine conflict in terms of Ruman Needs Theory. According to this Theory, humans have essential needs that need to be fulfilled in order to ensure survival and development. Among these needs, the need for identity and recognition of identity is of vital importance. This thesis thus explores the concept of identity as a need, and investigates this need as it relates to inter-group conflict. In situating this theory in the Israel/Palestine conflict, the study exammes how organisations like Ramas have Islamised Palestinian national identity in order to garner political support. The central contention, then, is that the primary identity group of the Palestinian population is no longer nationalist, but Islamic/nationalist. In Islamising the conflict with Israel as well as Palestinian identity, Ramas has been able to justify its often indiscriminate use of violence by appealing to religion. The conflict is thus perceived to be one between two absolutes - that of Islam versus Judaism. In considering the conflict as one of identities struggling for survival in a climate of perceived threat, any attempt at resolution of the conflict needs to include a focus on needs-based issues. The problem-solving approach to negotiation allows for parties to consider issues of identity, recognition and security needs, and thus ensures that the root causes of conflicts are addressed, The contention is that this approach is vital to any conflict resolution strategy where identity needs are at stake, and it provides the grounding for the success of more traditional zero-sum bargaining methods. A recognition of Islamic identity in negotiation processes in Israel/Palestine may thus make for a more comprehensive conflict resolution strategy, and make the outcomes of negotiations more acceptable to the people of Palestine, thus undermining the acceptance of violence that exists at present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: De Villiers, Shirley
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Arab-Israeli conflict Palestinian Arabs -- Civil rights -- Israel Nationalism -- Middle East Religion and politics -- Middle East Jewish-Arab relations Nationalism -- Religious aspects -- Islam -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007815
- Description: The use of violence in the Israel/Palestine conflict has been justified and legitimised by an appeal to religion. Militant Islamist organisations like Ramas have become central players in the Palestinian political landscape as a result of the popular support that they enjoy. This thesis aims to investigate the reasons for this support by analysing the Israel/Palestine conflict in terms of Ruman Needs Theory. According to this Theory, humans have essential needs that need to be fulfilled in order to ensure survival and development. Among these needs, the need for identity and recognition of identity is of vital importance. This thesis thus explores the concept of identity as a need, and investigates this need as it relates to inter-group conflict. In situating this theory in the Israel/Palestine conflict, the study exammes how organisations like Ramas have Islamised Palestinian national identity in order to garner political support. The central contention, then, is that the primary identity group of the Palestinian population is no longer nationalist, but Islamic/nationalist. In Islamising the conflict with Israel as well as Palestinian identity, Ramas has been able to justify its often indiscriminate use of violence by appealing to religion. The conflict is thus perceived to be one between two absolutes - that of Islam versus Judaism. In considering the conflict as one of identities struggling for survival in a climate of perceived threat, any attempt at resolution of the conflict needs to include a focus on needs-based issues. The problem-solving approach to negotiation allows for parties to consider issues of identity, recognition and security needs, and thus ensures that the root causes of conflicts are addressed, The contention is that this approach is vital to any conflict resolution strategy where identity needs are at stake, and it provides the grounding for the success of more traditional zero-sum bargaining methods. A recognition of Islamic identity in negotiation processes in Israel/Palestine may thus make for a more comprehensive conflict resolution strategy, and make the outcomes of negotiations more acceptable to the people of Palestine, thus undermining the acceptance of violence that exists at present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The career development of adolescents in a children's home: a career systems perspective
- Authors: Dullabh, Asha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/319 , Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Description: Adolescents in a children’s home are exposed to unique experiences from an early age. These adolescents develop in a system with early deprivation experiences, which may result in developmental and adjustment problems that impact on several spheres of their lives, including their career development. Given the lack of South African career research on adolescents, the present study aimed to explore and describe the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Specifically, this exploration takes the perspective of the systems theory framework of career development which is comprised of three interrelated systems, namely the individual, social, and the environmental/societal systems. The research approach was exploratory and descriptive in nature and was conducted both within a qualitative and quantitative framework. A workbook titled My System of Career Influences (McMahon, Patton, & Watson, 2003a), was used to collect the data. A non-probability, purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain the sample which consisted of 16 English-speaking adolescents, aged between 13 and17 years. Age, gender and culture were not considered in this study. The qualitative data was subjected to content analysis to identify themes, while frequency counts were used for the quantitative data. The results indicate that the present sample of adolescents is presently in the process of exploring and crystallizing their career choice, therefore fitting well within Super’s (1990) theoretical career stage of Exploration. The majority of the adolescents indicated that their present career situation involves making choices regarding schools, subjects, and participation in activities. Quantitative findings indicate that all influences within the three interrelated career systems have an influence on the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Based on frequency counts, individual system influences such as personality, health, interests and abilities were identified as prominent influences. Within the social system, prominent xi influences included parents, friends, teachers and reading. Within the environmental/societal system, influences such as financial support, location of universities, availability of jobs, and opportunities to work overseas were identified as prominent influences. In addition, adolescents were able to reflect on their personalized diagram of system influences and thus to examine the inter-relatedness of the three systems. The present study highlights the applicability of both the systems theory framework and the My Systems of Career Influences measure in exploring and describing the career development of adolescents in the unique contexts within which they live. Limitations and recommendations for future research based on the present findings are suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dullabh, Asha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/319 , Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Description: Adolescents in a children’s home are exposed to unique experiences from an early age. These adolescents develop in a system with early deprivation experiences, which may result in developmental and adjustment problems that impact on several spheres of their lives, including their career development. Given the lack of South African career research on adolescents, the present study aimed to explore and describe the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Specifically, this exploration takes the perspective of the systems theory framework of career development which is comprised of three interrelated systems, namely the individual, social, and the environmental/societal systems. The research approach was exploratory and descriptive in nature and was conducted both within a qualitative and quantitative framework. A workbook titled My System of Career Influences (McMahon, Patton, & Watson, 2003a), was used to collect the data. A non-probability, purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain the sample which consisted of 16 English-speaking adolescents, aged between 13 and17 years. Age, gender and culture were not considered in this study. The qualitative data was subjected to content analysis to identify themes, while frequency counts were used for the quantitative data. The results indicate that the present sample of adolescents is presently in the process of exploring and crystallizing their career choice, therefore fitting well within Super’s (1990) theoretical career stage of Exploration. The majority of the adolescents indicated that their present career situation involves making choices regarding schools, subjects, and participation in activities. Quantitative findings indicate that all influences within the three interrelated career systems have an influence on the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Based on frequency counts, individual system influences such as personality, health, interests and abilities were identified as prominent influences. Within the social system, prominent xi influences included parents, friends, teachers and reading. Within the environmental/societal system, influences such as financial support, location of universities, availability of jobs, and opportunities to work overseas were identified as prominent influences. In addition, adolescents were able to reflect on their personalized diagram of system influences and thus to examine the inter-relatedness of the three systems. The present study highlights the applicability of both the systems theory framework and the My Systems of Career Influences measure in exploring and describing the career development of adolescents in the unique contexts within which they live. Limitations and recommendations for future research based on the present findings are suggested.
- Full Text:
The effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
- Authors: Joubert, Christine
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/397 , Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Description: This study determined the effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with Development Coordination Disorder (DCD). The water-based programme promoted an alternative environment for DCD children, involving all dimensions of movement. Thirty-one (31) children from Port Elizabeth participated, with an experimental group (n=15) following the eight-week water-based programme, while a control group (n=16) carried on with daily activities. Motor proficiency was measured during three tests, utilizing the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP). Results indicated positive effects of the intervention on all the variables of the BOTMP (p < 0.05). Confirming this, three variables obtained practical significance with Cohen’s d > 0.8, and one with 0.2 < d < 0.8. At the end of the three-month duration of the study, the experimental group indicated better performances at the end of the study than at the start, thereby confirming the positive and lasting effect of the water-based intervention programme. Therefore, the use of a water-based programme in improving motor proficiency is supported. However, implementation of the programme over a longer period is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Joubert, Christine
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/397 , Hydrotherapy for children -- South Africa , Motor ability in children -- South Africa -- Testing , Children with disabilities -- South Africa
- Description: This study determined the effect of a water-based programme on the motor proficiency of children with Development Coordination Disorder (DCD). The water-based programme promoted an alternative environment for DCD children, involving all dimensions of movement. Thirty-one (31) children from Port Elizabeth participated, with an experimental group (n=15) following the eight-week water-based programme, while a control group (n=16) carried on with daily activities. Motor proficiency was measured during three tests, utilizing the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP). Results indicated positive effects of the intervention on all the variables of the BOTMP (p < 0.05). Confirming this, three variables obtained practical significance with Cohen’s d > 0.8, and one with 0.2 < d < 0.8. At the end of the three-month duration of the study, the experimental group indicated better performances at the end of the study than at the start, thereby confirming the positive and lasting effect of the water-based intervention programme. Therefore, the use of a water-based programme in improving motor proficiency is supported. However, implementation of the programme over a longer period is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The effect of commercialisation, privatisation and liberalisation on universal access in South Africa
- Gardner, Sean Patrick Newell
- Authors: Gardner, Sean Patrick Newell
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Telkom (Firm : South Africa) , Telecommunication , Telecommunication -- South Africa , Privatization -- South Africa , Trade regulation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3431 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002885 , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) , Telecommunication , Telecommunication -- South Africa , Privatization -- South Africa , Trade regulation -- South Africa
- Description: From the 1990s onwards, significant developments have occurred in the international telecommunications sector that have affected the South African telecommunications industry and peoples’ access to the network. Rapid developments in Information and Communication Technologies and the reorganisation of telecommunications operators through commercialisation, privatisation and the effects of market liberalisation have resulted in monopoly operators moving away from their public service mandates. Globalisation and adherence to World Trade Organisation rules are causing operators to rebalance their tariffs closer to cost. Long-distance rates are decreasing while the cost of local calls is increasing. High-end users of telecommunications services are benefiting while low-end, largely residential users are being priced off the network. The end result is a negative effect on universal access to telecommunications services. This study examines the extent to which commercialisation, privatisation and liberalization are affecting the provision of telecommunications services and the government’s goal of achieving universal access in South Africa. Qualitative research methods were utilised to establish that the state owned operator, Telkom, has transformed itself from a public service operator to one that is fully commercialised and prepared for an Initial Public Offering and competition. Telkom no longer attempts to ensure that its tariffs are affordable for all people. However, positive developments presented themselves in the form of an increasingly competent regulator, a reorganised and dedicated Universal Service Agency, and the popularity of cellular telephony. The primary discovery of this study is that the liberalisation of the South African telecommunications sector cannot be assumed to have a negative effect on the provision of service. This study finds that liberalisation will most likely benefit the country through the role out of new infrastructure, the provision of new services and ultimately the reduction of those services themselves. In order for universal access to be achieved in this country the study recommends that the resources of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa be enhanced to enable the regulator oversee the industry effectively. Secondly, the Universal Service Agency must provide clear definitions of universal access and universal service as well as manage the Universal Service Fund with greater efficiency. Lastly, the two bodies mentioned above must ensure that services are affordable for all people of this country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Gardner, Sean Patrick Newell
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Telkom (Firm : South Africa) , Telecommunication , Telecommunication -- South Africa , Privatization -- South Africa , Trade regulation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3431 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002885 , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) , Telecommunication , Telecommunication -- South Africa , Privatization -- South Africa , Trade regulation -- South Africa
- Description: From the 1990s onwards, significant developments have occurred in the international telecommunications sector that have affected the South African telecommunications industry and peoples’ access to the network. Rapid developments in Information and Communication Technologies and the reorganisation of telecommunications operators through commercialisation, privatisation and the effects of market liberalisation have resulted in monopoly operators moving away from their public service mandates. Globalisation and adherence to World Trade Organisation rules are causing operators to rebalance their tariffs closer to cost. Long-distance rates are decreasing while the cost of local calls is increasing. High-end users of telecommunications services are benefiting while low-end, largely residential users are being priced off the network. The end result is a negative effect on universal access to telecommunications services. This study examines the extent to which commercialisation, privatisation and liberalization are affecting the provision of telecommunications services and the government’s goal of achieving universal access in South Africa. Qualitative research methods were utilised to establish that the state owned operator, Telkom, has transformed itself from a public service operator to one that is fully commercialised and prepared for an Initial Public Offering and competition. Telkom no longer attempts to ensure that its tariffs are affordable for all people. However, positive developments presented themselves in the form of an increasingly competent regulator, a reorganised and dedicated Universal Service Agency, and the popularity of cellular telephony. The primary discovery of this study is that the liberalisation of the South African telecommunications sector cannot be assumed to have a negative effect on the provision of service. This study finds that liberalisation will most likely benefit the country through the role out of new infrastructure, the provision of new services and ultimately the reduction of those services themselves. In order for universal access to be achieved in this country the study recommends that the resources of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa be enhanced to enable the regulator oversee the industry effectively. Secondly, the Universal Service Agency must provide clear definitions of universal access and universal service as well as manage the Universal Service Fund with greater efficiency. Lastly, the two bodies mentioned above must ensure that services are affordable for all people of this country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The experiences and needs of HIV/AIDS counsellors at Settlers Hospital, Grahamstown
- Authors: Nulty, Maria
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- Supervision of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002541
- Description: Cognisant of the fact that counselling has become an essential aspect of dealing with HIV/AIDS in South Africa, the researcher aimed to explore the stressors experienced by HIV/AIDS counsellors. It was envisioned that the results obtained would both help to improve the counselling services provided at Settlers Hospital, and assist other organisations to do so. The research focused on how the participants dealt with the dual roles of non-directive listening and the more prescriptive advice-giving, the stressors they experienced and the support structures they had, or needed, to assist them in being more effective HIV/AIDS counsellors. The sample consisted of four HIV/AIDS counsellors working at Settlers Hospital, Grahamstown. The co-ordinator of HIV/AIDS at the hospital was interviewed for collateral information. A qualitative, multiple case study was undertaken. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data which were recorded and transcribed and then constructed into coherently organised personal narratives of each participant’s experiences. A composite description of all the results was arrived at through the use of a reading guide which reduced the data into a thematic content analysis. The analysed data served to present an understanding of the counsellors’ experiences and to enable recommendations to be made which could assist them in pursuing their work more effectively. The findings of this study indicate that HIV/AIDS counselling is an emotionally stressful occupation. Contributory factors include the twofold role of promoting prevention and serving as empathic listeners. Other stressors derive from issues of confidentiality and stigma concerning HIV/AIDS, counsellors’ identification with clients’ experiences and the demographics of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Situational stressors which arise from working as both nurses and counsellors in a public health institution were also identified. Recommendations are made to alleviate the counsellors’ stress in the form of facilitated emotional support groups, professional supervision, managerial support to improve the working environment, and ongoing in-service training.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Nulty, Maria
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- Supervision of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Counselors -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002541
- Description: Cognisant of the fact that counselling has become an essential aspect of dealing with HIV/AIDS in South Africa, the researcher aimed to explore the stressors experienced by HIV/AIDS counsellors. It was envisioned that the results obtained would both help to improve the counselling services provided at Settlers Hospital, and assist other organisations to do so. The research focused on how the participants dealt with the dual roles of non-directive listening and the more prescriptive advice-giving, the stressors they experienced and the support structures they had, or needed, to assist them in being more effective HIV/AIDS counsellors. The sample consisted of four HIV/AIDS counsellors working at Settlers Hospital, Grahamstown. The co-ordinator of HIV/AIDS at the hospital was interviewed for collateral information. A qualitative, multiple case study was undertaken. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data which were recorded and transcribed and then constructed into coherently organised personal narratives of each participant’s experiences. A composite description of all the results was arrived at through the use of a reading guide which reduced the data into a thematic content analysis. The analysed data served to present an understanding of the counsellors’ experiences and to enable recommendations to be made which could assist them in pursuing their work more effectively. The findings of this study indicate that HIV/AIDS counselling is an emotionally stressful occupation. Contributory factors include the twofold role of promoting prevention and serving as empathic listeners. Other stressors derive from issues of confidentiality and stigma concerning HIV/AIDS, counsellors’ identification with clients’ experiences and the demographics of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Situational stressors which arise from working as both nurses and counsellors in a public health institution were also identified. Recommendations are made to alleviate the counsellors’ stress in the form of facilitated emotional support groups, professional supervision, managerial support to improve the working environment, and ongoing in-service training.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The Harry Potter phenomenon literary production, generic traditions, and the question of values
- Authors: Glover, Jayne Ashleigh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Rowling, J. K. Criticism and interpretation , Potter, Harry (Fictitious character) , Children's literature -- History and criticism , Fantasy fiction, English -- History and criticism , Wizards in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2201 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002243 , Rowling, J. K. Criticism and interpretation , Potter, Harry (Fictitious character) , Children's literature -- History and criticism , Fantasy fiction, English -- History and criticism , Wizards in literature
- Description: This thesis is a study of the first four books of J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. It accounts for the widespread success of the novels by examining their publication and marketing histories, and their literary achievement as narratives including a sophisticated mix of generic traditions. Chapter One looks at the popularity of the novels, comparing their material production and marketing by Rowling’s English language publishers: Bloomsbury in Britain and Scholastic in the United States of America. The publisher’s influence on the public perception of each book is demonstrated by comparative study of its mode of illustration and layout. Further, the design of the books is linked to their strategic marketing and branding within the literary world. The second chapter considers Rowling’s debt to the school story. It concentrates first on the history of this relatively short-lived genre, briefly discussing its stereotypical features and values. Traditional elements of setting and characterisation are then examined to show how the Harry Potter novels present a value system which, though apparently old-fashioned, still has an ethical standpoint designed to appeal to the modern reader. Chapter Three focuses on the characterisation of Harry as a hero-figure, especially on how the influence of classical and medieval texts infuses Rowling’s portrayal of Harry as a hero in the chivalric mode. The episodes of “quest” and “test” in each book illustrate specifically how he learns the values of selflessness, loyalty, mercy and fairness. Chapter Four surveys the contribution of modern fantasy writing to the series. It shows how Rowling creates a secondary world that allows us to perceive magic as a metaphorical representation of power. This focus on the relationship between magic and power in turn has a bearing on our assessment of the author’s moral stance. The thesis concludes by suggesting that Rowling’s unusual mix of genres is justified by the values they share, and which are inscribed in her work: the generic combination forms a workable, new and exciting mode of writing that helps to account for the phenomenal popularity of the series.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Glover, Jayne Ashleigh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Rowling, J. K. Criticism and interpretation , Potter, Harry (Fictitious character) , Children's literature -- History and criticism , Fantasy fiction, English -- History and criticism , Wizards in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2201 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002243 , Rowling, J. K. Criticism and interpretation , Potter, Harry (Fictitious character) , Children's literature -- History and criticism , Fantasy fiction, English -- History and criticism , Wizards in literature
- Description: This thesis is a study of the first four books of J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. It accounts for the widespread success of the novels by examining their publication and marketing histories, and their literary achievement as narratives including a sophisticated mix of generic traditions. Chapter One looks at the popularity of the novels, comparing their material production and marketing by Rowling’s English language publishers: Bloomsbury in Britain and Scholastic in the United States of America. The publisher’s influence on the public perception of each book is demonstrated by comparative study of its mode of illustration and layout. Further, the design of the books is linked to their strategic marketing and branding within the literary world. The second chapter considers Rowling’s debt to the school story. It concentrates first on the history of this relatively short-lived genre, briefly discussing its stereotypical features and values. Traditional elements of setting and characterisation are then examined to show how the Harry Potter novels present a value system which, though apparently old-fashioned, still has an ethical standpoint designed to appeal to the modern reader. Chapter Three focuses on the characterisation of Harry as a hero-figure, especially on how the influence of classical and medieval texts infuses Rowling’s portrayal of Harry as a hero in the chivalric mode. The episodes of “quest” and “test” in each book illustrate specifically how he learns the values of selflessness, loyalty, mercy and fairness. Chapter Four surveys the contribution of modern fantasy writing to the series. It shows how Rowling creates a secondary world that allows us to perceive magic as a metaphorical representation of power. This focus on the relationship between magic and power in turn has a bearing on our assessment of the author’s moral stance. The thesis concludes by suggesting that Rowling’s unusual mix of genres is justified by the values they share, and which are inscribed in her work: the generic combination forms a workable, new and exciting mode of writing that helps to account for the phenomenal popularity of the series.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The influence of an adapted knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment, on sprint starting performance
- Authors: Schultz, Adrian Brent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11029 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/317 , Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Muscle strength has been identified as an important contributor to athletic performance. Little attention however, has been paid to the specific relationship between peak isokinetic muscle strength and sprint starting performance. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an adapted front knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment (the angle of peak torque production), on starting performance. Sixteen track sprinters, of elite-national or competitive-regional standard, were asked to perform eight sprints over 50m using four separate starting techniques. Technique 1 featured the athlete’s usual starting preferences while Techniques 2, 3 and 4 featured a standardised set of starting preferences with experimental modifications of the front knee angle in the “set” position. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured at slow (60°/s) and fast (240°/s) test speeds in order to determine the angle of peak torque production for concentric knee extension of each subject’s lead leg. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc analysis (LSD), no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between the experimental techniques for: block time, force-time measures during block time, sprint times, sprint velocity and acceleratio n measures at intervals up to 50m. Significant differences (p<0.05) were however observed between reaction times for the experimental techniques. Slower reaction times are most likely due to increased upper body pretension, resulting from the increased hip elevation seen for these techniques. The results indicate that increased hip elevation may have delayed the initiation of the relevant motor response required to affect an optimal sprint start. Technique 1 resulted in the shortest reaction times, shortest block times, fastest sprint times and greatest sprint velocities for all four techniques. This result was possibly due to the athlete’s experience with, and repeated use of, this technique. The experimental techniques therefore provided no added advantage over the subject’s preferred starting technique and did not significantly optimise sprint starting performance. The results show that modification of the front knee angle had no significant influence on sprint starting performance and sprint running ve locity or acceleration patterns up to 50m. Using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to determine the strongest correlations between isokinetic knee strength and sprint starting performance, analysis revealed that the strongest relationships were found between sprint starting performance expressed as acceleration and isokinetic knee strength expressed as relative peak torque and absolute peak torque. For Technique 1 the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (30m - 40m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.62). For the remaining experimental techniques, the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (10m - 20m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.53) for Technique 2, between acceleration (40m - 50m) and peak torque measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.72) for Technique 3, and between acceleration (0m - 5m) and peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.71) for Technique 4. These results suggest that isokinetic muscle strength does not correlate strongly with sprint starting performance and that additional factors, such as neuromuscular organisation and muscle fibre typing, possibly make a greater contribution to optimal sprint starting performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Schultz, Adrian Brent
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11029 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/317 , Sprinting -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects -- Testing , Muscle strength -- Testing , Runners (Sports) -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Muscle strength has been identified as an important contributor to athletic performance. Little attention however, has been paid to the specific relationship between peak isokinetic muscle strength and sprint starting performance. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an adapted front knee angle, as determined by isokinetic assessment (the angle of peak torque production), on starting performance. Sixteen track sprinters, of elite-national or competitive-regional standard, were asked to perform eight sprints over 50m using four separate starting techniques. Technique 1 featured the athlete’s usual starting preferences while Techniques 2, 3 and 4 featured a standardised set of starting preferences with experimental modifications of the front knee angle in the “set” position. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured at slow (60°/s) and fast (240°/s) test speeds in order to determine the angle of peak torque production for concentric knee extension of each subject’s lead leg. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc analysis (LSD), no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between the experimental techniques for: block time, force-time measures during block time, sprint times, sprint velocity and acceleratio n measures at intervals up to 50m. Significant differences (p<0.05) were however observed between reaction times for the experimental techniques. Slower reaction times are most likely due to increased upper body pretension, resulting from the increased hip elevation seen for these techniques. The results indicate that increased hip elevation may have delayed the initiation of the relevant motor response required to affect an optimal sprint start. Technique 1 resulted in the shortest reaction times, shortest block times, fastest sprint times and greatest sprint velocities for all four techniques. This result was possibly due to the athlete’s experience with, and repeated use of, this technique. The experimental techniques therefore provided no added advantage over the subject’s preferred starting technique and did not significantly optimise sprint starting performance. The results show that modification of the front knee angle had no significant influence on sprint starting performance and sprint running ve locity or acceleration patterns up to 50m. Using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to determine the strongest correlations between isokinetic knee strength and sprint starting performance, analysis revealed that the strongest relationships were found between sprint starting performance expressed as acceleration and isokinetic knee strength expressed as relative peak torque and absolute peak torque. For Technique 1 the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (30m - 40m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.62). For the remaining experimental techniques, the strongest correlation was found between acceleration (10m - 20m) and relative peak torque as measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.53) for Technique 2, between acceleration (40m - 50m) and peak torque measured at a test speed of 60°/s (r = 0.72) for Technique 3, and between acceleration (0m - 5m) and peak torque as measured at a test speed of 240°/s (r = 0.71) for Technique 4. These results suggest that isokinetic muscle strength does not correlate strongly with sprint starting performance and that additional factors, such as neuromuscular organisation and muscle fibre typing, possibly make a greater contribution to optimal sprint starting performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The location of meaning in the postmodernist literary text: a reading of Mark Z. Danielewski's House of Leaves and related material
- Authors: Jeffery, Thomas Carnegie
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Danielewski, Mark Z. House of leaves , Danielewski, Mark Z. Criticism and interpretation , Horror tales , English literature -- Criticism, Textual , Literature, Modern -- History and criticism , Postmodernism (Literature)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002238
- Description: In House of Leaves, Mark Z. Danielewski has produced a text which epitomises the traits and concerns of postmodernist literature. Through his attention to aspects such as metafiction, intertextuality and parody, Danielewski develops a narrative structure which is best understood as a literary labyrinth. It is a structure intended to reflect the social conditions of the twenty-first century and comment on the experience of people living at this time. Some of the meaning-making strategies within the book’s labyrinthine structure are thus discussed in detail in order to demonstrate the relevance and importance of House of Leaves as social commentary. House of Leaves is an exemplary postmodernist text, but it is also one that seeks to guide the reader beyond the intellectual impasse of the postmodernist paradigm toward a renewed ethical and political engagement with the world. One of the most important goals of both Danielewski’s novel and this thesis is to attempt to redefine the postmodernist perspective in such a way as to insist on the necessity of what I call a new realism. This is founded upon an awareness of the pervasiveness of the self-perpetuating ideology of capitalism, even in the perspective of postmodernism (which purports to subvert all authoritative ideologies). Playing a crucial role in perpetuating the status quo of capitalism is the growth of entertainment culture, which works to sideline crucial political issues by replacing information with infotainment. The result is an intensification of the processes of commodification. Such an intensification, it is argued, may be countered by a radical scepticism which draws upon the methods and insights of contemporary science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jeffery, Thomas Carnegie
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Danielewski, Mark Z. House of leaves , Danielewski, Mark Z. Criticism and interpretation , Horror tales , English literature -- Criticism, Textual , Literature, Modern -- History and criticism , Postmodernism (Literature)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002238
- Description: In House of Leaves, Mark Z. Danielewski has produced a text which epitomises the traits and concerns of postmodernist literature. Through his attention to aspects such as metafiction, intertextuality and parody, Danielewski develops a narrative structure which is best understood as a literary labyrinth. It is a structure intended to reflect the social conditions of the twenty-first century and comment on the experience of people living at this time. Some of the meaning-making strategies within the book’s labyrinthine structure are thus discussed in detail in order to demonstrate the relevance and importance of House of Leaves as social commentary. House of Leaves is an exemplary postmodernist text, but it is also one that seeks to guide the reader beyond the intellectual impasse of the postmodernist paradigm toward a renewed ethical and political engagement with the world. One of the most important goals of both Danielewski’s novel and this thesis is to attempt to redefine the postmodernist perspective in such a way as to insist on the necessity of what I call a new realism. This is founded upon an awareness of the pervasiveness of the self-perpetuating ideology of capitalism, even in the perspective of postmodernism (which purports to subvert all authoritative ideologies). Playing a crucial role in perpetuating the status quo of capitalism is the growth of entertainment culture, which works to sideline crucial political issues by replacing information with infotainment. The result is an intensification of the processes of commodification. Such an intensification, it is argued, may be countered by a radical scepticism which draws upon the methods and insights of contemporary science.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The mentally retarded offender in a forensic setting: a South African study
- Authors: Solomons, Warren Stanley
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa , Forensic psychology , People with mental disabilities and crime -- South Africa , People with mental disabilities -- Rehabilitation , Mental health laws -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002572 , Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa , Forensic psychology , People with mental disabilities and crime -- South Africa , People with mental disabilities -- Rehabilitation , Mental health laws -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined, within the South African context, the prevalence of mental retardation in a forensic observation setting, and the impediments of and successes to forensic rehabilitation. The results of the study indicated that a significant amount of forensic observation patients (25.16%) are ultimately diagnosed as being mentally retarded, with 39.24 percent of such offenders being found unfit to plead. Further 32.91 percent of the same sample was found to be not responsible for their actions. A link was also drawn between the mentally retarded offender and violent offenses. The advantages and disadvantages of a current rehabilitative process are discussed in light of alternate community-based forms of rehabilitation that are being implemented in other countries, for example the United States of America, with a view towards investigated their usefulness and adaptability to South African circumstances. The findings of the study have implications for mental health professionals working within forensic settings concerning the future management of mentally retarded offenders, particularly within the rehabilitative process .
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Solomons, Warren Stanley
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa , Forensic psychology , People with mental disabilities and crime -- South Africa , People with mental disabilities -- Rehabilitation , Mental health laws -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002572 , Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa , Forensic psychology , People with mental disabilities and crime -- South Africa , People with mental disabilities -- Rehabilitation , Mental health laws -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined, within the South African context, the prevalence of mental retardation in a forensic observation setting, and the impediments of and successes to forensic rehabilitation. The results of the study indicated that a significant amount of forensic observation patients (25.16%) are ultimately diagnosed as being mentally retarded, with 39.24 percent of such offenders being found unfit to plead. Further 32.91 percent of the same sample was found to be not responsible for their actions. A link was also drawn between the mentally retarded offender and violent offenses. The advantages and disadvantages of a current rehabilitative process are discussed in light of alternate community-based forms of rehabilitation that are being implemented in other countries, for example the United States of America, with a view towards investigated their usefulness and adaptability to South African circumstances. The findings of the study have implications for mental health professionals working within forensic settings concerning the future management of mentally retarded offenders, particularly within the rehabilitative process .
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The performance of children with autism on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales of Mental Development
- Authors: Gowar, Rosemary Vera
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Autism in children -- South Africa , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/353 , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Autism in children -- South Africa , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Description: Despite a widespread perception that the number of children coming to clinical attention with Autism Spectrum Disorders has greatly increased, limited South African Research has been conducted on children with Autism. Thus a need exists to accumulate knowledge about the cognitive, psychological and personalsocial growth of children diagnosed with Autism. This study is aimed at exploring the performance of children with Autism between the ages of 7 years (from 72 months) and 8 years (to 95.9 months), in South Africa (SA), utilising the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales of Mental Development (GSMD). The sample comprised an experimental group of 30 children with Autism from four schools for Specialised Education for learners with Autism in SA, and a control group comprised of 30 “normal” children, where normalcy can be broadly defined as “an absence of any sensory, physical or mental handicap”. The six areas of general development assessed included Locomotor, Personal- Social, Language, Eye and Hand co-ordination, Performance, and Practical Reasoning. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was applied. The major findings of the present study were as follows: (i) Children with Autism (years 7 & 8) showed a characteristic cognitive profile when tested with the revised Extended Griffiths Scales. Their performance indicates lower performance on Subcales B, C and F than on the other Subscales. (ii) Some children with Autism experienced major fall-outs, whereas others were slightly below average. The general performance of children with Autism was, however, in the range “cognitively impaired”. (iii) There was significant difference between the Autistic sample and the normal sample on the GQ. xiv In view of the findings, it is recommended that the results of the study, which focused on the children’s areas of developmental weakness, be widely disseminated. This could facilitate the development of therapeutic programmes, so as to allow for appropriate stimulation for children with Autism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Gowar, Rosemary Vera
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Autism in children -- South Africa , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11016 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/353 , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Autism in children -- South Africa , Children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa
- Description: Despite a widespread perception that the number of children coming to clinical attention with Autism Spectrum Disorders has greatly increased, limited South African Research has been conducted on children with Autism. Thus a need exists to accumulate knowledge about the cognitive, psychological and personalsocial growth of children diagnosed with Autism. This study is aimed at exploring the performance of children with Autism between the ages of 7 years (from 72 months) and 8 years (to 95.9 months), in South Africa (SA), utilising the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales of Mental Development (GSMD). The sample comprised an experimental group of 30 children with Autism from four schools for Specialised Education for learners with Autism in SA, and a control group comprised of 30 “normal” children, where normalcy can be broadly defined as “an absence of any sensory, physical or mental handicap”. The six areas of general development assessed included Locomotor, Personal- Social, Language, Eye and Hand co-ordination, Performance, and Practical Reasoning. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was applied. The major findings of the present study were as follows: (i) Children with Autism (years 7 & 8) showed a characteristic cognitive profile when tested with the revised Extended Griffiths Scales. Their performance indicates lower performance on Subcales B, C and F than on the other Subscales. (ii) Some children with Autism experienced major fall-outs, whereas others were slightly below average. The general performance of children with Autism was, however, in the range “cognitively impaired”. (iii) There was significant difference between the Autistic sample and the normal sample on the GQ. xiv In view of the findings, it is recommended that the results of the study, which focused on the children’s areas of developmental weakness, be widely disseminated. This could facilitate the development of therapeutic programmes, so as to allow for appropriate stimulation for children with Autism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The performance of hearing impaired children on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales
- Authors: Schröder, Ingrid Anita
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Griffiths Developmental Scales , Deaf children -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11031 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/333 , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Griffiths Developmental Scales , Deaf children -- South Africa
- Description: In this unique time of nation building in South Africa, education is seen as the key foundation stone to prosperity and development. However, despite a decade of restructuring, many differing groups of children still do not receive the quality of education they deserve. Amongst those are children with special needs, including those who have a hearing impairment. These children are the focus of the present study. It is a widely accepted principle that early assessment and intervention is necessary to maximise a child’s potential. It is for this reason that the global aim of this study was to explore and describe the developmental profile of hearing impaired children on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales. Further aims were to compare the performance of the clinical sample to a normal South African sample. A quantitative, exploratory-descriptive research design was employed. The sample of hearing impaired children (N = 58), between the ages of 36 and 95 months, attended the Carel du Toit Pre-School in the Western Cape, South Africa and were obtained by means of a non-probability, purposive sampling procedure. The normal sample (N = 58) was drawn from an existing database created for the revision of the Scales. Information was collated using clinical files, biographical data as well as the results of an assessment on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales. The major findings of the study are summarised below. The general performance of the hearing impaired sample on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales was average. The performance of the children on the six subscales ranged from below average to average, with major fall-outs occurring on the Hearing and Speech and Practical Reasoning Subscales. The normal sample performed significantly better than the hearing impaired sample on all of the subscales of the measure. However, significant differences were found on four of the six subscales, namely, the Locomotor, Personal-Social, Hearing and Speech and Practical Reasoning Subscales. Generally, the results of the current study suggest that a specific developmental profile is obtained for hearing impaired children. In addition, this study has highlighted the success with which the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales can be utilised on a hearing impaired population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Schröder, Ingrid Anita
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Griffiths Developmental Scales , Deaf children -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11031 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/333 , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa , Griffiths Developmental Scales , Deaf children -- South Africa
- Description: In this unique time of nation building in South Africa, education is seen as the key foundation stone to prosperity and development. However, despite a decade of restructuring, many differing groups of children still do not receive the quality of education they deserve. Amongst those are children with special needs, including those who have a hearing impairment. These children are the focus of the present study. It is a widely accepted principle that early assessment and intervention is necessary to maximise a child’s potential. It is for this reason that the global aim of this study was to explore and describe the developmental profile of hearing impaired children on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales. Further aims were to compare the performance of the clinical sample to a normal South African sample. A quantitative, exploratory-descriptive research design was employed. The sample of hearing impaired children (N = 58), between the ages of 36 and 95 months, attended the Carel du Toit Pre-School in the Western Cape, South Africa and were obtained by means of a non-probability, purposive sampling procedure. The normal sample (N = 58) was drawn from an existing database created for the revision of the Scales. Information was collated using clinical files, biographical data as well as the results of an assessment on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales. The major findings of the study are summarised below. The general performance of the hearing impaired sample on the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales was average. The performance of the children on the six subscales ranged from below average to average, with major fall-outs occurring on the Hearing and Speech and Practical Reasoning Subscales. The normal sample performed significantly better than the hearing impaired sample on all of the subscales of the measure. However, significant differences were found on four of the six subscales, namely, the Locomotor, Personal-Social, Hearing and Speech and Practical Reasoning Subscales. Generally, the results of the current study suggest that a specific developmental profile is obtained for hearing impaired children. In addition, this study has highlighted the success with which the Revised Extended Griffiths Scales can be utilised on a hearing impaired population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The relationship between trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity
- Authors: Farrington, Robin Mark
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Anxiety sensitivity -- South Africa , Anxiety -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/352 , Anxiety sensitivity -- South Africa , Anxiety -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) is a useful psychological construct in understanding the development of general and clinical anxiety. An increased amount of research has recently been conducted in this area. Since the development of the 16-item Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), there has been deliberation in the literature about the relationship of the AS construct and the ASI, to the personality construct of trait anxiety. Central to this discus sion is the notion that AS is nothing more than trait anxiety. This position brings into question the conceptual and empirical validity of AS. This study aimed to explore and describe the relationship between trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity, through the use of an exploratory-descriptive correlational design. Levels of trait anxiety were determined through the use of subscales on the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF) and anxiety sensitivity through the use of the ASI. Using a convenience sampling technique, 84 student volunteers completed the 16PF and ASI. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the sample group had the capacity to express emotional energy along integrated channels and was thus well suited for exploring the relationship between the construct of trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity. The relationship between trait anxiety and AS in the sample group was explored through the use of two statistical procedures. Firstly, the coefficient of determination (r²) was calculated and revealed that 24% of the variance among the ASI scores were attributable to variations in Factor QII scores of the 16PF and viceversa. Secondly, a multiple regression analysis technique revealed that 28% of the variance in the ASI score could be explained by the combination of factors Q4 (free- floating anxiety), O (guilt proneness), C (ego strength), L (suspiciousness), Q3 (ability to bind anxiety) of the 16PF. These key findings are in line with other research in that the constructs of trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity showed a level of variance. As such, it was concluded that although the constructs may be related, they are not synonymous.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Farrington, Robin Mark
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Anxiety sensitivity -- South Africa , Anxiety -- South Africa -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/352 , Anxiety sensitivity -- South Africa , Anxiety -- South Africa -- Testing
- Description: Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) is a useful psychological construct in understanding the development of general and clinical anxiety. An increased amount of research has recently been conducted in this area. Since the development of the 16-item Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), there has been deliberation in the literature about the relationship of the AS construct and the ASI, to the personality construct of trait anxiety. Central to this discus sion is the notion that AS is nothing more than trait anxiety. This position brings into question the conceptual and empirical validity of AS. This study aimed to explore and describe the relationship between trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity, through the use of an exploratory-descriptive correlational design. Levels of trait anxiety were determined through the use of subscales on the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF) and anxiety sensitivity through the use of the ASI. Using a convenience sampling technique, 84 student volunteers completed the 16PF and ASI. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the sample group had the capacity to express emotional energy along integrated channels and was thus well suited for exploring the relationship between the construct of trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity. The relationship between trait anxiety and AS in the sample group was explored through the use of two statistical procedures. Firstly, the coefficient of determination (r²) was calculated and revealed that 24% of the variance among the ASI scores were attributable to variations in Factor QII scores of the 16PF and viceversa. Secondly, a multiple regression analysis technique revealed that 28% of the variance in the ASI score could be explained by the combination of factors Q4 (free- floating anxiety), O (guilt proneness), C (ego strength), L (suspiciousness), Q3 (ability to bind anxiety) of the 16PF. These key findings are in line with other research in that the constructs of trait anxiety and anxiety sensitivity showed a level of variance. As such, it was concluded that although the constructs may be related, they are not synonymous.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The use of computer-based management information systems as a recruitment tool an assessment of the attitudes of recruitment agents in a selected area of the Western Cape on 10 February 2004
- Authors: Victor, Louana
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Employment agencies -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Evaluation , Employee selection -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Data processing , Management information systems -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10997 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/342 , Employment agencies -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Evaluation , Employee selection -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Data processing , Management information systems -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Description: Recruitment and selection has become a specialised industry and is competing in a global market. To remain competitive, recruitment agents have to stay ahead of their competitors, by providing an excellent service to customers and applicants, and by keeping up with technological developments in their field. The current investigation focuses on an assessment of the attitudes of recruitment agents in a selected area of the Western Cape Province to the use of computer-based management information systems as a recruitment tool. A questionnaire was distributed amongst recruitment agents in the identified area. It focused on recruiter biographical information, the services they offer, the methods and processes they use in recruitment, the knowledge and skills they need in their field, and their knowledge and attitude towards electronic-recruitment. The literature indicated a move towards using technology in the field of recruitment, and this was consistent with the findings of the study. Although the respondents were familiar with developments in technology used for recruitment, only a small number were familiar with the major business information systems, namely, SAP R/3, Oracle and PeopleSoft. Information specifically related to recruitment agents in South Africa was limited, but the study provided some insight into this field. It was found that recruitment agents disagree on what a good advertisement, as well as a good résumé, should contain, and this is problematic as these are two of the most important things that recruitment agents work with every day. The literature provided no indication of the qualifications needed by a recruitment agent, and resulting from this, a second finding of the study indicated that, according to the respondents, the qualifications needed by a recruitment agent are varied. It was found that qualifications of the sample group varied from only a school-leaving certificate to post-graduate degrees. A significant trend identified that only 24.2 per cent of recruitment agents are involved in research related to recruitment, and write articles related to their field. This contributes to the fact that so little information is available about South African recruitment agents. The study indicated that recruitment agents hold a positive attitude towards computer-based information systems, although they are accepted with caution because of various logistical problems in the South African market. The study also provided useful information to start a process of drawing up a profile of the South African recruitment agency business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Victor, Louana
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Employment agencies -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Evaluation , Employee selection -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Data processing , Management information systems -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10997 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/342 , Employment agencies -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Evaluation , Employee selection -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Data processing , Management information systems -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Description: Recruitment and selection has become a specialised industry and is competing in a global market. To remain competitive, recruitment agents have to stay ahead of their competitors, by providing an excellent service to customers and applicants, and by keeping up with technological developments in their field. The current investigation focuses on an assessment of the attitudes of recruitment agents in a selected area of the Western Cape Province to the use of computer-based management information systems as a recruitment tool. A questionnaire was distributed amongst recruitment agents in the identified area. It focused on recruiter biographical information, the services they offer, the methods and processes they use in recruitment, the knowledge and skills they need in their field, and their knowledge and attitude towards electronic-recruitment. The literature indicated a move towards using technology in the field of recruitment, and this was consistent with the findings of the study. Although the respondents were familiar with developments in technology used for recruitment, only a small number were familiar with the major business information systems, namely, SAP R/3, Oracle and PeopleSoft. Information specifically related to recruitment agents in South Africa was limited, but the study provided some insight into this field. It was found that recruitment agents disagree on what a good advertisement, as well as a good résumé, should contain, and this is problematic as these are two of the most important things that recruitment agents work with every day. The literature provided no indication of the qualifications needed by a recruitment agent, and resulting from this, a second finding of the study indicated that, according to the respondents, the qualifications needed by a recruitment agent are varied. It was found that qualifications of the sample group varied from only a school-leaving certificate to post-graduate degrees. A significant trend identified that only 24.2 per cent of recruitment agents are involved in research related to recruitment, and write articles related to their field. This contributes to the fact that so little information is available about South African recruitment agents. The study indicated that recruitment agents hold a positive attitude towards computer-based information systems, although they are accepted with caution because of various logistical problems in the South African market. The study also provided useful information to start a process of drawing up a profile of the South African recruitment agency business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The viability of small-scale farming at the Tyhefu Irrigation Scheme, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sishuta, Happy Babalwa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004924 , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This investigation is conducted against the background of current attempts to rehabilitate and revive the now defunct Tyhefu irrigation scheme. The poor track record of many irrigation schemes (despite huge investments) in the former homelands has prompted the government to reconsider its active and direct role in small-scale irrigation farming. This has resulted in the closure of many irrigation schemes including Tyhefu irrigation scheme. The new policy framework in South Africa, known as the irrigation management transfer, is premised on the transfer of ownership, authority and responsibility of small-scale irrigation schemes from government to the farmers. Tyhefu irrigation scheme was a state-driven, top-down initiative. This study argues that the justifications for the Tyhefu irrigation scheme were conflated, with the result that the need for political control of the Tyhefu area far outweighed the considerations regarding the financial viability and sustainability of the proposed project. Given the repressive political climate of the time in South Africa, the planners' proposals were a mechanism for the realization of the socio-political and economic agendas of the apartheid state and Ciskei government. Although technical factors critical for project success were examined, little or no attention was paid to the socio-economic aspects. For the planners, the main requirements for success entailed centralized managerial control, no participation of the beneficiaries, capital intensive and sophisticated agricultural techniques and the production of high value crops. Therefore, it can be argued that the nature of the planning and implementation of the Tyhefu irrigation scheme was ill-conceived, short-sighted and misguided. A review of the literature on irrigation development on the African continent provided useful insights for this study. The lessons from irrigation development experience in Sub-Saharan Africa indicate that the continent is littered with examples of derelict and costly failures. What stands out in many of these irrigation projects is their over-emphasis on technical issues to the complete neglect of human and other social aspects. Working partnerships between the farmers and irrigation scheme management could, thus, not be realized. Almost without exception the case studies used here indicate that the industrious type of farmer was never developed as was envisioned in the planning documents. Neither were rural livelihoods improved in a sustainable manner. The findings of this study suggest that irrigation management transfer is a complex and delicate process. In this new set of arrangements, beneficiaries face formidable challenges in terms of capacity (human and financial) if small-scale irrigation farming is to become a viable sector. No doubt, the viability and sustainability of the Tyhefu irrigation scheme demands a comprehensive package of interventions that address various issues of markets and marketing, capital investment and access to finance, technology, education and training, support and extension services. It is evident that institutional aspects and the related issue of functional literacy require much more attention than thus far. As a result, at the moment there is no possibility for independent agricultural production. , KMBT_363
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Sishuta, Happy Babalwa
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004924 , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This investigation is conducted against the background of current attempts to rehabilitate and revive the now defunct Tyhefu irrigation scheme. The poor track record of many irrigation schemes (despite huge investments) in the former homelands has prompted the government to reconsider its active and direct role in small-scale irrigation farming. This has resulted in the closure of many irrigation schemes including Tyhefu irrigation scheme. The new policy framework in South Africa, known as the irrigation management transfer, is premised on the transfer of ownership, authority and responsibility of small-scale irrigation schemes from government to the farmers. Tyhefu irrigation scheme was a state-driven, top-down initiative. This study argues that the justifications for the Tyhefu irrigation scheme were conflated, with the result that the need for political control of the Tyhefu area far outweighed the considerations regarding the financial viability and sustainability of the proposed project. Given the repressive political climate of the time in South Africa, the planners' proposals were a mechanism for the realization of the socio-political and economic agendas of the apartheid state and Ciskei government. Although technical factors critical for project success were examined, little or no attention was paid to the socio-economic aspects. For the planners, the main requirements for success entailed centralized managerial control, no participation of the beneficiaries, capital intensive and sophisticated agricultural techniques and the production of high value crops. Therefore, it can be argued that the nature of the planning and implementation of the Tyhefu irrigation scheme was ill-conceived, short-sighted and misguided. A review of the literature on irrigation development on the African continent provided useful insights for this study. The lessons from irrigation development experience in Sub-Saharan Africa indicate that the continent is littered with examples of derelict and costly failures. What stands out in many of these irrigation projects is their over-emphasis on technical issues to the complete neglect of human and other social aspects. Working partnerships between the farmers and irrigation scheme management could, thus, not be realized. Almost without exception the case studies used here indicate that the industrious type of farmer was never developed as was envisioned in the planning documents. Neither were rural livelihoods improved in a sustainable manner. The findings of this study suggest that irrigation management transfer is a complex and delicate process. In this new set of arrangements, beneficiaries face formidable challenges in terms of capacity (human and financial) if small-scale irrigation farming is to become a viable sector. No doubt, the viability and sustainability of the Tyhefu irrigation scheme demands a comprehensive package of interventions that address various issues of markets and marketing, capital investment and access to finance, technology, education and training, support and extension services. It is evident that institutional aspects and the related issue of functional literacy require much more attention than thus far. As a result, at the moment there is no possibility for independent agricultural production. , KMBT_363
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- Date Issued: 2004