African traditional medicines-antiretroviral drug interactions: the effect of African potato (Hypoxis hemerocallidea) on the pharmacokinetics of efavirenz in humans
- Authors: Mogatle, Seloi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Potatoes -- Africa Potatoes -- Therapeutic use Medicinal plants Traditional medicine AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment HIV infections -- Drug therapy Drug interactions Antiretroviral agents Pharmacokinetics Hypoxidaceae -- Therapeutic use High performance liquid chromatography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3773 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003251
- Description: African Potato (Hypoxis hemerocallidea), (AP) is an African traditional medicine (TM) that is commonly used for various nutritional/medicinal purposes and also by people infected with the human immuno deficiency virus HIV and AIDS patients as an immune booster. The use of AP has also been recommended by the former Minister of Health of South Africa for use by HIV positive people. The main phytochemical component of AP is a norlignan glucoside, hypoxoside, and other relatively minor components have also been reported. A recent in vitro study reported the effects of AP extracts, hypoxoside and rooperol (the metabolite of hypoxoside) on human metabolic enzymes such as the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) group of enzymes and also on the transporter protein, p-glycoprotein (P-gp). This research focussed on investigating the clinical significance of those in vitro effects on the pharmacokinetics of efavirenz (EFV) in humans. EFV was chosen as the substrate drug because it is in first-line regimen of treatment of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, and also has been reported to be a substrate for the specific CYP isozymes, 3A4 and 2B6, in common with APs metabolic involvement with 3A4. A high performance liquid chromatography method with ultra-violet detection (HPLC-UV) for the quantitative determination of EFV in plasma was developed and successfully validated according to international standards with good reproducibility, accuracy, recovery, linear response and requisite sensitivity. The preparation of the plasma samples for analysis was effected by using a simple and rapid precipitation method, and the mobile phase consisted of readily available solvents. EFV in plasma samples was found to be stable under the relevant storage conditions studied. The oral dose of AP, administered as a freshly prepared traditional decoction, was standardised based on the hypoxoside content, and the quality of all the AP decoctions was analysed immediately prior to administration, using a validated HPLC-UV method. A single dose, two-phase sequential study was conducted over a period of 31 days in 10 healthy volunteers. The clinical study was approved by the Rhodes University Ethical Standards Committee, and all the participants agreed to the conditions of the study by giving their informed consent. On day 1 of the study, human subjects were administered a 600 mg EFV tablet and blood samples were collected before dosing and at various intervals over a period of 48 hr post dosing. From day 16, a traditionally prepared AP decoction was administered daily at a standardized dose of 15 mg/kg/day per subject until day 30. On day 29, volunteers were administered a single 600 mg dose of EFV as was done on day 1. Plasma samples were harvested immediately after blood sample collection and frozen at -80 ºC until assayed. Geometric mean ratios of relevant pharmacokinetic parameters, Cmax (maximum plasma concentration achieved following dosing) and AUC0-48 (area under the curve of a plot of drug plasma concentrations versus time representing the extent of absorption) of EFV before and after co-administration of 14 successive daily doses of AP were compared and evaluated to determine whether an interaction had occurred. All subjects completed the study and the geometric mean ratios of Cmax and AUC0-48 were 97.30 and 102.82 with corresponding 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of 78.81-120.14% and 89.04-118.80%, respectively. Whereas the acceptance criteria for the ratios of the AUCs fell within the preset 90% CIs indicating no interaction, the Cmax ratios fell outside the limits. Although the protocol was developed in accordance with the United States of America Food & Drug Administration’s Guidance for Drug Interactions, a priori stating that both criteria need to fall within the acceptance limits to indicate no interaction, an argument is presented to waive the Cmax requirement for the declaration of an interaction. As a result, the pharmacokinetic data generated during this study indicated that the effect of AP on the pharmacokinetics of EFV is not clinically significant. Hence, co-administration of AP is unlikely to affect the clinical use of EFV. In summary the objectives of this project were: 1. To develop and validate a suitable HPLC-UV method for the quantitative determination of EFV in plasma. 2. To perform a mini-validation of the determination of hypoxoside for use as a marker in the quality control and standardisation of AP decoctions. 3. To conduct a clinical interaction study in order to determine whether AP affects the pharmacokinetics of EFV following concurrent administration. 4. To apply the validated HPLC-UV method to determine plasma concentrations of EFV in plasma of human subjects. 5. To use appropriate statistical methods and treatments such as a non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis to determine the occurrence of an interaction.
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An analysis of the money market linkages between South Africa and selected major world economies
- Authors: Barnor, Joel A
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South African Reserve Bank , Banks and banking, Central -- South Africa , Money market -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , International economic relations , Interest rates -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:956 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002690 , South African Reserve Bank , Banks and banking, Central -- South Africa , Money market -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , International economic relations , Interest rates -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Description: Globalisation and financial liberalisation has increased the linkages across countries in recent times. The existence of money market links has important implications for both domestic monetary policy and for investment decisions. This study examines the linkages between South Africa’s money market and selected major international money markets. The objectives of the study are firstly to examine the links between the repo rate of South Africa and the central bank rates of the EU, Japan, UK and US. Secondly, is to compare the influence of domestic and foreign monetary policy decisions on South Africa’s money market. The third objective is to examine the long run relationship between the South African money market and the money markets of its major trading partners. Three estimation techniques are used to examine the different links. Principal components analysis, four tests of cointegration, and stationarity tests of the spreads/risk premium between South Africa’s interest rates and the interest rates of the other countries. All three techniques show that there is no long-run link between South Africa’s central bank rates and the central bank rates of the other countries. This shows that the repo rate does not depend on movements in other central bank rates. Domestic money market interest rates respond strongly to changes in the repo rate whilst showing no dependence on central bank rates of the other countries. This confirms the autonomy of the South African Reserve Bank in carrying out policy objectives. When the risk premium is accounted for under the third technique, evidence of integration is found. This indicates that the risk premium plays a crucial part in the level of integration between South Africa and the countries included in the study.
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An assessment of the environmental compliance monitoring capacity of the Department of Minerals and Energy, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Watkins, Deidre Ann
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa. Dept. of Mineral and Energy Affairs Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mineral industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mineral industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mineral industries -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mines and mineral resources -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mines and mineral resources -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental auditing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:728 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003848
- Description: One of the greatest challenges facing the world today is integrating industrial activities such as mining with environmental integrity and social concerns. Monitoring is fundamental to environmental management, both to assess the adherence to standards and to allow environmental managers to learn from practical experiences. However, a problem arises when the regulatory authorities cannot keep up with their mandate of enforcement and compliance monitoring. This research examined how the Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) implements the concept of sustainable development in the mining sector of the Eastern Cape (EC) and, more specifically, the extent to which the Mine Environmental Management (MEM) section is able to effectively monitor compliance of mining operations with environmental legislation. This was the first systematic compilation of statistical data for the DME, and presents the first study in the EC regional office in terms of environmental sustainability. Results indicate that there has been a sustained increase in mining activity over the past three years, possibly as a result of the boom in the construction industry and the accelerated road maintenance and improvement programmes in the Eastern Cape. Mining applications received by the DME have increased by 47% from 2006 to 2007 (January-May) and by a further 100% from 2007 to 2008. In addition to the increasing number of mining concerns being established, 98 mining concerns will need to apply for the conversion of their old order rights to new order rights by the 1st May 2009. Mining in the province is predominantly small scale with mining permits (mined areas less than 1.5Ha) making up 52.3% of all applications, with larger mining concerns contributing 29.3% and prospecting contributing the remaining 18.4%. In terms of compliance inspections, the EC regional office is required to conduct 120 environmental compliance inspections annually in terms of contributing to sustainable development. The MEM section exceeded this target since 2003. However, when the number of operational mines is considered, 120 inspections per year equates to one mine being visited, on average once every four years (based on 2008 data). Based on projected figures (number of compliance audits and number of operational mines) for 2009, the DME’s target of 150 inspections for 2009/10 combined with the limited staff D. Watkins – MBA Dissertation 2008 capacity will, at best, mean that mines would be inspected once in seven years. However, the target of 150 inspections will not actually even cover the expected number of EMP evaluation inspections. This has serious implications in terms of regulating the compliance of the mining concerns with their EMPR’s. The low level of compliance monitoring can be directly related to staff capacity and logistics problems at the regional office as well as provincial targets being based on staff capacity rather than the number of operational mines. Thus, considering potential environmental damage associated with mining operations and the capacity constraints of the MEM to conduct frequent compliance audits, it is likely that mining operations will have negative implications for sustainable development in the region. Currently there are many challenges facing the DME in terms of contributing positively to sustainability in the mining sector and there is a need to base future actions on the idea of continuous improvement and ultimately progress.
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An assessment of the experience of small town local economic development in the Eastern Cape Midlands
- Authors: Pio, Elizabeth
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Small cities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , City planning -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:4888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015464
- Description: This thesis is an assessment of the experience of small town local economic development in four towns namely Graaff-Reinet, Somerset East, Aberdeen and Pearston situated in the Eastern Cape Midlands, South Africa. It aims firstly to provide a critical overview of these selected small town economies before evaluating their local responses to the changing economic climate. The study is contextualized within the framework of locality development and emphasizes the heterogeneity of small towns with regards to physical, socio-economic, demographic and historical elements. From this, the original economic reasons for existence of these small towns are ascertained and then the major changes that occurred are identified. Amongst other aspects, the changes in the agricultural sector, the demographic changes particularly with regard to the significant increase in the urban population and the fluctuations in the quantity and types of businesses have all played a part in transforming the small towns' economies. As a result of these changes and many external driving forces such as changes in the regional and national economy, there are many severe challenges facing these small towns especially regarding the high unemployment rate, the associated poverty, HIV/AIDS and the low volume or absence of private investment into these localities. The responses of these small towns to the daunting challenges that they face have been considered in terms of Local Economic Development (LED) strategies that have been implemented. The LED initiatives in each town are examined in the context of their general characteristics, objectives, achievements and challenges. Emphasis is placed on Somerset East as it is the only town in the study area that has a development agency actively promoting various forms of LED. What has ultimately been established is: in all four towns, LED is not making a significant or meaningful difference and that natural market and economic forces play an important role in shaping and dictating the local economy. Somerset East is the only town where the economy could potentially be restructured with the proposed mega market-led approach to tourism and planning in the form of the Boschberg Development node. Four sectors perceived to be required for locality development are considered in this study, namely the export sector, the human resources, the local service sector and the government agencies. It is ascertained that although these sectors need to be part of a symbiotic relationship to promote and enhance economic development, they are not present in all the towns and as a result development, at both a household and a macro town level, is further hindered. Ultimately, these small towns in the Eastern Cape Midlands defy the notion that they are dying. 'Growth' and 'decline' have been two central features throughout this thesis and one of the biggest contradictions and challenges that these small towns face is the population growth with a declining or stagnant economy that cannot accommodate the increased number of people.
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An assessment of the relationship between organisational climate and organisational commitment within the IT department of a telecommunications company
- Authors: Saunders, John
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Corporate culture Organizational behavior Management -- Employee participation Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003849
- Description: The main objective of this study was to assess the relationship between organisational climate and organisational commitment within the Information Technology department of a South African Telecommunications company. Firstly, the research considered the organisational climate from a qualitative perspective. Research interviews that were based on organisational climate literature were performed with 4 members of the relevant department. Qualitative data analysis revealed several themes. The themes highlighted include: perceived ineffective structure and decision-making; lack of mistake tolerance; risk aversion by employees; recognition and reward systems perceived to be inadequate; performance management is perceived to be ineffective and inadequate; Employee Share Options Program (ESOP) perceived to have a negative influence on employee behaviours; the nature of the social environment perceived to be unfriendly; low level of knowledge and skills sharing; inadequate human resource management practices; These findings highlight the importance of certain aspects within the environment that influence employee perceptions. Organisational climate literature suggests that organisational climate has various behavioral influences and its consideration is essential in the effective functioning of the organisation. Secondly, the research considered the relationship between organisational climate and organisational commitment within the relevant department. The Patterson et al. (2005) Organisational Climate Measure (OCM®) and Meyer and Allen (1991) Organisational Commitment Questionnaire (OCQ) were used to assess the relationship between organisational climate and organisational commitment, respectively. Significant correlations were found between integration, pressure to produce, innovation, supervisory support, reflexivity, clarity, involvement, autonomy, welfare and tradition, and both affective and normative commitment, Training was only significantly correlated to affective commitment. No significant correlations were found with continuance commitment.
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An evaluation of the brand campus concept implemented at Mercedes-Benz South Africa: a case study
- Authors: Samkange, Tichaona
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Mercedes-Benz of South Africa DaimlerChrysler -- South Africa Consumer satisfaction Case studies -- South Africa Product management Case studies -- South Africa Brand name products -- Management Case studies Brand name products -- Valuation Case studies Marketing Case studies -- South Africa Brand choices Case studies -- South Africa Customer preferences Case studies -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003861
- Description: Primarily, this research study was concerned with the evaluation of the brand campus concept implemented at then DaimlerChrysler South Africa in 2002, as a case study. Pretoria-based Mercedes-Benz South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (MBSA) is a subsidiary of global vehicle manufacturer Germany’s Daimler-Benz AG (DBAG). They are responsible for assembling, distributing and retailing, certain Mercedes-Benz and Mitsubishi vehicle brands, and spare parts. The landmark 1998 DaimlerChrysler global ‘merger of equals’ was preceded by the 1995 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Mitsubishi Motor Corporation. Consequently, three brands (Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler and Mitsubishi) were retailed and marketed under DaimlerChrysler South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (DCSA), positioned next to each other in the same showroom. This report identifies key challenges stemming from this approach, namely: brand strength dilution, more than 80 multi-franchised dealers and multi-branded showrooms, service capacity problems, old working environment and infrastructure, and perceived intra-brand competition. The research evidence suggests that these problems prompted then DCSA to launch the 2000 Dealer Network Strategy (DNS). In the grand scheme of things, the DNS intervention entailed partitioning the dealer network into five brand centres in five metro regions, and eighteen market centres in the rural areas. The brand campus concept was borne out of DNS and proved to be a masterstroke since, the primary focus was on streamlining the retail facilities for DCSA vehicle sales, service and spare parts for both the passenger and commercial vehicles. This study highlights key pillars of the brand campus concept, namely: profitability, brand focus, customer orientation and diversity. The challenge was to address seven major drivers of the brand campus concept, namely: after-sales vehicle support, vehicle service capacity, lead-times, spare parts availability, sales information propagation, behavior of sales personnel and the overall vehicle dealership appearance. Semi-structured interviews constituted part of the evaluation based on the perspectives of five customers, three dealer principals and two MBSA marketing executives. The research evidence, which also came from MBSA documentation and direct observation, shows that this innovative concept has been remarkably successful.
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An evaluation of the quality of customer service delivery offered by the East London public transport commuter rail service provider (operated by Metrorail)
- Authors: Bosch, Colin
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Railroads -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Transportation -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Railroads -- Quality control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:744 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003865
- Description: The aim of this survey is to evaluate the quality of customer service delivery offered by the East London public transport commuter rail service provider Metrorail, a division of the state owned enterprise (SOE) PRASA. The former tolerant rail commuter has become increasingly frustrated at the ever-decreasing quality of rail service delivery. This is evidenced by increasing incidents of commuter arson to failed rail assets and the practice is considered to be a strategy to enforce the replacement of unreliable infrastructure and ineffective/reactive management controls. The objectives of the research are guided by three fundamental service quality indicators. In order to evaluate these indicators, the research focuses on whether the quality of customer services provided by Metrorail meets commuter expectations, whether commuters rank five dimensions of service quality differently and whether the level of service quality provided is perceived differently amongst the various demographic commuter segments. Service organizations which are highly interactive, labour-intensive, reliant on a number of service providers, required to perform at various locations and have high intensity/volume operations, will be susceptible to failure; Metrorail services fall into this category. The legacy of the apartheid era regime and strategy resulted in poor rail planning and underfunding. Commuter rail operations in South Africa are fraught with a myriad of inadequacies of the past that only now manifest. As a consequence, their ability to operate effectively and efficiently is impaired. The situation is further exacerbated by the global economic crisis of 2008 and the impact of constricted budget allocations by the State to all SOE's which could further impede the interventions and innovation required to improve service quality. The in-depth literature review provided sufficient information relating to a wide array of service organizations similar in nature to Metrorail. This information is translated into useable knowledge and recommendations from which Metrorail can benefit. The research methodology is clearly articulated and the data analysis ensures distinct findings which are discussed in the final chapter. The research undertaken identifies and prioritises the service quality attributes and dimensions that will require redress to improve overall service quality. The findings are clearly defined from which a set of recommendations are suggested.
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An examination of an incentive system to maximize performance in an automobile manufacturing environment
- Authors: Fourie, Dawie
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Daimlerchrysler -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Incentives in industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Automobile industry workers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Performance Performance -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Goal setting in personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Achievement motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:745 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003866
- Description: This investigation was undertaken to explore an incentive system to maximize performance in an automotive manufacturing environment. The unit under study was a motor manufacturing company in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The approach to this investigation was to start with a quantitative analysis to identify if there was a relationship between the incentive reward and employee satisfaction. This was to be done by correlation analysis between the Job Descriptive Index (JDI) and the performance related incentive reward (PBR) of the abovementioned company. The data was then used to develop an interview guide, which was used in a focus group study, to evaluate the current incentive system as a motivator of performance. The analysis of the qualitative interview data was to be done through the use of thematic analysis. Using a percentage based estimation per production line, 150 workers were selected from the 2100 shop floor workers. The Job Descriptive Index (JDI) questionnaires were used to measure the satisfaction index of the workers. The performance data was gathered from the company's incentive statistics over the past year, 2004. All other related data was obtained though thematic analysis by the researcher, who was interested to get the insiders' view. From the emic perspective, more data could be obtained by the researcher by probing with follow-up questions. After both the quantitative and qualitative procedures were completed, the results of the study were found to be much the same as those described in the reviewed literature. The quantitative analysis did not prove a significant correlation between incentive reward and satisfaction; and employees were most satisfied with work, supervision and co-workers and less satisfied with pay and promotion. The qualitative procedure (thematic analysis) highlighted that the current reward system was not motivating performance, but rather demoralised employees, as it was used as a punitive measure to encourage work attendance. The current system also confirmed the error made by many organisations, where the organization purely concentrates on motivating employees with extrinsic rewards and little thought is given to intrinsic recognition.
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An exploration of problems experienced in the interpretation of word problems by grade 12 learners
- Authors: Neshuku, Christian N
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Education (Secondary) -- Namibia Word problems (Mathematics) Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008206
- Description: This research sought to investigate the problems experienced in the interpretation of word problems by senior secondary school learners, in particular to see how the language used in the articulation of word problems affects the interpretation. The study was conducted in a school in the Oshikoto region of Namibia, a school located in a semi-rural area of Namibia, and selected owing to the accessibility of the required participants. The research was located within an interpretive paradigm focusing on a study sample of 40 learners from a specified class in the selected school. Data were collected through written tests and a semi-structured interview based on written tests, and a comprehensive descriptive analysis of test results was prepared. The findings of the study indicate that the language in which the word problem was articulated did not make a difference. The performance in both English and Oshindonga tests was almost the same. The findings also indicate that vocabulary, syntactic interpretation, semantic relationships, algebraic skills, and practical sense making in relation to real-life are all important for the successful interpretation and solving of word problems. In view of these findings, the study has provided valuable insights into aspects of the teacher education curriculum that need to be revisited in order to improve the training of teachers In teaching word problems.
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An illustrated information leaflet for low-literate HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy : design, development and evaluation
- Authors: Ramela, Thato
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa HIV-positive persons -- Care -- South Africa AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa AIDS (Disease) -- Africa, Sub-Saharan -- Statistics Communication in medicine -- South Africa Communication in public health -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007563
- Description: South Africa's HIV prevalence rate is estimated to be 5.7 million and at the end of2007 a total of 45845 HIV/AIDS adult patients were taking antiretroviral therapy (ART). The global incidence of HIV/AIDS has been slowly decreasing over the years but is still widespread. This disease is still more prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa than in other parts of the world, with more than 60% people living with HIV/AIDS. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), the treatment of choice, slows the progression of the human immunovirus but demands a high adherence rate in excess of 95%. Patients who are poorly informed about antiretrovirals (ARVs) and misunderstand medicine-taking instructions or experience unexpected side effects may interrupt therapy, predisposing them to the development of resistance. Such patients need information but, given the poor literacy skills prevalent in South Africa, written information is often not fully comprehended and is often written at too high a reading level. The objectives of this research project were to design, modify and evaluate HIV / AIDS patient education materials for low-literate isiXhosa speaking adults residing in Grahamstown and to examine their impact on the understanding of various aspects of the disease and its treatment. Pictograms illustrating common side effects of ARVs (e.g. stavudine, efavirenz, lamivudine), as well as various sources 'for purchasing nonprescription medicines, storage and medicine-taking instructions were designed and evaluated both qualitatively, using group discussions, and quantitatively through individual interviews where interpretation of the pictograms was assessed. These pictograms were incorporated in a patient information leaflet (PIL) which had been specifically designed for people with limited reading skills and was a simple document containing the minimum of essential text. A previously developed PIL was modified in collaboration with the target population and two versions were produced, one incorporating pictograms illustrating side effects, the other with none. Pictograms were used in both to illustrate other medicine-taking instructions. The PILs were tested objectively to assess the readability, format, content, and general design. They were translated into isiXhosa prior to being qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated in a low-literate isiXhosa speaking population. Understanding of the PILs was assessed by asking a series of questions about the PIL content. Participant opinion of the readability and appearance of the PIL was recorded. The relationship between PIL understanding and selected demographic variables was investigated. Findings from this study illustrated that well designed pictograms assist in the location of information in written leaflets and they may enhance understanding of the information. It was further demonstrated that education influences total understanding of PIL content thus emphasizing the need for tailor-written information in accordance with the education level of the target population. A desire to receive PILs incorporating pictograms was expressed by the majority of participants. Collaboration with the intended target population is essential to design culturally acceptable, easily interpreted pictograms and to produce user-friendly, easy-to-read, comprehensible patient education materials. The rigorous, iterative design, modification and testing process described in this study is one that should be adopted in producing all health-related education materials.
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An investigation into causes of success and failure in small businesses within the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Petrus, Henry George
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa -- Dept. of Social Development , South Africa -- Dept. of Trade and Industry , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Business enterprises -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003942
- Description: The failure rate of small business initiatives in South Africa is phenomenal, and much is needed to unravel the causes contributing to such failures. Yet small businesses are playing a vital part in our global economy and in particular in terms of job creation and poverty eradication. There are internal as well as external factors that play a significant role in determining the success of these small businesses. In South Africa much emphasis is placed by national, provincial and local governments on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive wealth creation and black economic empowerment. Therefore, an investigation into the factors contributing to the success and failure of SMEs is of vital importance. The South African government’s poverty eradication strategy, which is driven by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), allocated funds for job creation programmes as a method to combat poverty and more importantly, to develop young entrepreneurs. Among the seven departments mandated by DTI was the Department of Social Development. Since the birth of the new democracy, this department has transformed from offering a traditional remedial method of service delivery to an integrated developmental approach. This approach included extensive community work, which includes job creation and economic empowerment through the establishment of small businesses. Given the availability of funding, the inability to spend fiscal budgets as per allocation as well as the charity element of receiving involved, it is important to explore whether factors contributing to the success of these SMEs are any different to the traditional business strategies. In this study, the researcher gave special consideration to the social capital element and its contribution in the context of community support as well as the ability of SMEs to become sustainable business ventures over time. The research study aims to highlight unique factors contributing to the success and failures of SMEs established by the Department of Social Development and in doing so hopes to manifest an improved understanding of the management of these SMEs. In chapter one, the researcher gives a brief description of the activities of the Department of Social Development and its mandate to establish SMEs for job creation. A brief explanation regarding the context of the problem that was investigated is also given. Chapter two provides a detailed theoretical overview of the study, focusing in particular on factors contributing to the success and failure of small businesses. In chapter three, the research design and the various instruments used are discussed. Here, emphasis is placed on procedural issues and ethical considerations. The validity and reliability of the research is strongly motivated. In chapter four the research results are discussed. Chapter five aims to discuss the findings of the research with reference to the theoretical overview outlined in chapter two. Lastly, chapter six makes recommendations to the various stakeholders who may benefit from this research. These recommendations are the most important objectives of the research and should add value with regards to the management of SMEs in future, with special reference to the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape.
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An investigation into the design and implementation of an internet-scale network simulator
- Authors: Richter, John Peter Frank
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Computer simulation , Computer network resources , Computer networks , Internet
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4597 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004840 , Computer simulation , Computer network resources , Computer networks , Internet
- Description: Simulation is a complex task with many research applications - chiey as a research tool, to test and evaluate hypothetical scenarios. Though many simulations execute similar operations and utilise similar data, there are few simulation frameworks or toolkits that allow researchers to rapidly develop their concepts. Those that are available to researchers are limited in scope, or use old technology that is no longer useful to modern researchers. As a result of this, many researchers build their own simulations without a framework, wasting time and resources on a system that could already cater for the majority of their simulation's requirements. In this work, a system is proposed for the creation of a scalable, dynamic-resolution network simulation framework that provides scalable scope for researchers, using modern technologies and languages. This framework should allow researchers to rapidly develop a broad range of semantically-rich simulations, without the necessity of superor grid-computers or clusters. Design and implementation are discussed and alternative network simulations are compared to the proposed framework. A series of simulations, focusing on malware, is run on an implementation of this framework, and the results are compared to expectations for the outcomes of those simulations. In conclusion, a critical review of the simulator is made, considering any extensions or shortcomings that need to be addressed.
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An investigation into the development of environmental education as a field of practice in South African National Parks
- Authors: Taljaard, Sandra
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa National parks and reserves -- South Africa Environmental education -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1603 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003485
- Description: This study looks at aspects of the development of environmental education in South African National Parks (SANParks), in relation to the emergence of national and organisational policy frameworks. In order to put current environmental education practices into context, the study firstly looks at the historical development line of environmental education in SANParks, as well as in the broader national context. This provides a framework within which the processes of change and development can be traced in terms of social, political and economic influences on an international and national front. The study finds that the promulgation of legislation, including the Constitution, National Acts and various other policies, reflected the trends of thinking and set the pace in a democratic South Africa, which led to the emergence of more explicit processes and refined policies. Popkewitz’s finding, that education emerged in modernity, is used in the study to illustrate this tendency. It finds that these changes in South Africa resulted in the establishment of more structured environmental education processes within SANParks, and led to the expansion, diversification and strengthening of environmental education as a field of practice over time. The study traces significant processes of recontextualisation of international and national environmental education related policies according to the framework established by Bernstein (1980). These processes of recontextualisation were followed in the formulation processes of SANParks policy and strategy documents in the period from 1999 to 2005, and resulted in an official pedagogic discourse for environmental education in SANParks. The study establishes a second level of recontextualisation, that is, the official pedagogic discourse of environmental education in SANParks is recontextualised to a pedagogic discourse of reproduction. The pedagogic discourse of reproduction relates to park practices, where contextualisation within park-based programmes appears to be strong. The park-based programmes resemble a ‘curriculum in practice’, which brings us to Cornbleth’s critical curriculum approach. The study utilises this approach to explore and explain the meaning of the critical perspective taken on curriculum construction and change efforts at park implementation level (Cornbleth, 1990). The study finds that the contextualisation of park programmes and practices lead to variety in park programmes, which adds richness to environmental education programmes and activities, and further highlights the fact that environmental education practices are prolific in national parks. The study also finds that historical and contextual processes associated with specific parks strongly characterise environmental education programmes and practices in those parks, and that partnership programmes, such as the Kids in Parks programme, contribute towards, and enhance the growth of environmental education as a specialised field of practice in SANParks. The study comments on the need for environmental education practices in SANParks to be reviewed and expanded in line with the contemporary approach towards the environment as a social construct of interacting components. These components include the biophysical, social, economic and political dimensions. The study also highlights the need for the recognition and acknowledgement of the long, historical development line of environmental education in SANParks in order to build on established structures in a holistic way. The study further determines a need for strong leadership to successfully expand this specialised field of practice and encourages a participatory approach in the review and further development of this field of practice in SANParks. The study ultimately finds that environmental education in SANParks has a long and rich development profile, which has placed it in a strong position for further development. However, it concludes that there is a great need for a rejuvenated approach, which requires expert knowledge, professionalism and broad based networking approach to enable meaningful expansion within this specialised field of practice.
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An investigation into the hardware abstraction layer of the plural node architecture for IEEE 1394 audio devices
- Authors: Chigwamba, Nyasha
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: IEEE 1394 (Standard) , Digital communications , Computer sound processing , Local area networks (Computer networks) , Computer network architectures , Sound -- Recording and reproducing -- Digital techniques
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4598 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004841 , IEEE 1394 (Standard) , Digital communications , Computer sound processing , Local area networks (Computer networks) , Computer network architectures , Sound -- Recording and reproducing -- Digital techniques
- Description: Digital audio network technologies are becoming more prevalent in audio related environments. Yamaha Corporation has created a digital audio network solution, named mLAN (music Local Area Network), that uses IEEE 1394 as its underlying network technology. IEEE 1394 is a digital network technology that is specifically designed for real-time multimedia data transmission. The second generation of mLAN is based on the Plural Node Architecture, where the control of audio and MIDI routings between IEEE 1394 devices is split between two node types, namely an Enabler and a Transporter. The Transporter typically resides in an IEEE 1394 device and is solely responsible for transmission and reception of audio or MIDI data. The Enabler typically resides in a workstation and exposes an abstract representation of audio or MIDI plugs on each Transporter to routing control applications. The Enabler is responsible for configuring audio and MIDI routings between plugs on different Transporters. A Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) within the Enabler allows it to uniformly communicate with Transporters that are created by various vendors. A plug-in mechanism is used to provide this capability. When vendors create Transporters, they also create device-specific plug-ins for the Enabler. These plug-ins are created against a Transporter HAL Application Programming Interface (API) that defines methods to access the capabilities of Transporters. An Open Generic Transporter (OGT) guideline document which models all the capabilities of Transporters has been produced. These guidelines make it possible for manufacturers to create Transporters that make use of a common plug-in, although based on different hardware architectures. The introduction of the OGT concept has revealed additional Transporter capabilities that are not incorporated in the existing Transporter HAL API. This has led to the underutilisation of OGT capabilities. The main goals of this investigation have been to improve the Enabler’s plug-in mechanism, and to incorporate the additional capabilities that have been revealed by the OGT into the Transporter HAL API. We propose a new plug-in mechanism, and a new Transporter HAL API that fully utilises both the additional capabilities revealed by the OGT and the capabilities of existing Transporters.
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An investigation into the persistence of traditional teaching methods in grade 9 mathematics classrooms in Rundu : a case study
- Authors: Ausiku, Charity M
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia -- Case studies Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- Namibia -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1852 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004461
- Description: I embarked upon this study to investigate mathematics teachers' practices that have led to the persistence of traditional teaching methods in grade 9 mathematics classrooms in Rundu. The study was conducted from a learner-centred (L-C) perspective or reform approach in the Namibian context. It is a qualitative study oriented in the interpretive paradigm- a paradigm that seeks to understand the meanings attached to human actions. The participants involved in this study were purposively selected and they are composed of two mathematics teachers and their grade 9 learners. This study was conducted at two schools in Rundu. One is an urban school while the other one is a rural school on the outskirts of Rundu. The research tools employed in this study are questionnaires, interviews and observations. The questionnaires were used to identify and select my participants while the observations were used to investigate the participants teaching strategies. The purpose of the interviews was mainly to investigate teachers' understanding, interpretation and implementation of learner-centre education (LCE). Amongst other findings, this study reveals that inadequate teacher-training, controversial educational policies and challenges such as overcrowdedness in mathematics classrooms, lack of teaching and learning materials, lack of cooperation among mathematics teachers and learners' negative attitude towards mathematics are some of the contributing factors to the persistence of traditional teaching methods in mathematics classrooms. Moreover, the study reveals that the persistence of traditional teaching methods in mathematics classes can no longer be attributed to the lack of understanding of LCE. The teachers in this study seem to be well acquainted with the theoretical aspect of the LCE framework while the implementation aspect seems to be a concern.
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An investigation into the role of student participation in school governance : a Namibian perspective
- Authors: Shekupakela-Nelulu, Rauna
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Education and state -- Namibia Education, Secondary -- Namibia Student government -- Namibia Student participation in administration -- Namibia School management and organization -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1923 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007449
- Description: The issue of student participation in school governance is not a new concept in Namibian schools. Student involvement dates back to the 1970's when the country's administration was under the South African apartheid regime. Back then the involvement of students in school affairs was seen by the regime as a political act and attempts by student leaders to involve themselves in educational issues were often quashed. When the country became independent student representation continued as Student Representative Councils (SRC's), later renamed Learners Representative Councils (LRCs). This study attempted to investigate the perceptions of LRCs and other stakeholders - narnely the school principals and the school board members - of the role of students in school governance. The study was conducted in three Senior Secondary Schools in the Kavango region in Namibia. The research respondents were school principals, chairpersons of the LRCs and one chairperson of a school board. The study was conducted in the interpretive paradigm employing the following three qualitative research methods interviews, observation and document analysis to collect data. Through triangulation it was possible to formulate a rich response to the research question. The study found that, although the notion of student participation in school governance was widely accepted, a number of challenges exist that hamper the effectiveness of LRCs in the schools. It was revealed that there was no national policy docunlent that outlined the roles and function of the LRCs. As a result schools had little direction about the LRCs and subsequently they were given little or no attention by the school authorities. This resulted in misunderstandings and in some cases conflict between learners and the school management. The most significant consequence of these problems was the fact that LRCs were not regarded as true role players in school governance. The study thus recommends that a national policy document that legitimates the role of students in school governance be drafted to provide direction and that schools embark on meaningful training programmes for LRC members. The study also calls for further research to address the gap in literature on this phenomenon, particularly in Namibia.
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An investigation of changing socio-economic conditions, opportunities and development interventions in small Eastern Cape towns in South Africa
- Authors: Keal, Duncan
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Local Economic Development (Programme) Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:4840 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005516
- Description: Small towns internationally and in South Africa are becoming increasingly marginalised, and they are often experiencing economic downturn, demographic shifts and a rearticulation of their role in the urban hierarchy. In the case of South Africa many of these small towns are also faced with low levels of social development. The urgent need to address such conditions is evident by the fact that a large proportion of the South African population resides in small towns, and their surrounding hinterlands. This said, there are examples of small towns, internationally and in South Africa which, through the use of various Local Economic Development actions, have managed to remain sustainable, and in some cases become economically viable localities once again. In light of the above, the research conducted for this thesis seeks first to establish the socio-economic changes occurring over time in three small towns in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, namely Stutterheim, Bedford and Hamburg. Secondly, the research aims to identify the nature of LED activities in the three small towns, highlighting those factors contributing to the success of LED initiatives as well as those factors inhibiting LED in small towns. This is done with the intention of developing future lessons for LED in small towns. The research was conducted using a mix of qualitative and quantitative data generated through the interviews with key role players in each town, as well as secondary data sources. Findings from the research suggest that the small towns investigated are characterised by low levels of socio-economic development. In addition, it appears that the development opportunities for the towns are limited. Current initiatives are being driven by private role players with local government being largely uninvolved. Such initiatives are limited in nature, with benefits only felt by small groups of the local community. However, examples do exist of where LED has successfully benefited the broader spheres of the local community, thus suggesting that if implemented properly such an approach does have potential to assist in the socio-economic development of small towns. In light of this, a number of lessons are identified for LED in small towns, including the need for strong leadership, community involvement, partnerships between role players, and planning for project sustainability.
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An investigation of lower primary teachers' content knowledge of mathematics in Ohangwena region in Namibia
- Authors: Haufiku, Amon
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: SACMEQ Namibia. Presidential Commission on Education, Culture and Training Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Namibia Education -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1637 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003519
- Description: The poor performance in mathematics of learners in schools in Namibia, especially in the grades where learners sit for the national examinations, has been a concern of everybody. Since independence, the Ministry of Education in collaboration with several donor agencies has been aware of the poor performance in mathematics in the country. Several international and local studies have been made in an effort to identify the problems that are hindering learners’ performance in mathematics in Namibia. The findings of some studies that were conducted in the country such as the Southern Africa Consortium Monitoring Education Quality (2004), the Presidential Commission on Education, Culture and Training (1999), and the Mathematics and Science Teachers Extension Program (2002) revealed that the inadequate proficiency of primary teachers in mathematics content could be responsible for learners’ poor performance in mathematics. This study, therefore, is aimed at investigating the mathematical proficiency of lower primary (LP) teachers in Namibia. The study used three instruments to collect data namely, a profile questionnaire – to collect teachers’ demographic data, a proficiency test – to test their proficiency level of mathematics using the content of Grade 4 and 5 learners’ mathematics syllabi and a semi-structured interview schedule – to get views about their own mathematics content knowledge, attitudes towards mathematics as well as problems that hinder effective teaching and learning of mathematics at LP phase. The study was conducted with 30 lower primary teachers from five primary and combined schools in the Ohangwena circuit of the Ohangwena region. The study found out that: (1) the mathematical proficiency of LP teachers is below the Grade 7 Mathematics content. Most teachers are not able to solve the content of mathematics at upper primary (UP) phase. (2) LP education is receiving very little support from the Ministry compared to other phases. (3) There are no workshops or training courses organised for LP teachers. They do not receive enough textbooks and materials, their classrooms are overcrowded and teachers cannot pay attention to individual learners. (4) There is a dire need for LP Head of Departments (HODs) who are specialised at LP; most HODs for LP at schools are not specialised in this area. When it comes to views about future content of mathematics that should be given to LP teachers in Namibia, respondents recommended that future LP teachers should have knowledge of mathematics up to at least Grade 10 but preferably up to Grade 12. They do not want to be restricted to LP mathematics, but would like to have a broader knowledge of mathematics content. This would make them more confident in solving their children’s problems in mathematics. Overall, participants recognised the value of mathematics and the role that it plays in society.
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An investigation of newsroom convergence at the MoAfrika media company in Lesotho and its implications for gatekeeping: a qualitative case study
- Authors: Senthebane, Teboho
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: MoAfrika Convergence (Telecommunication) Mass media -- Management -- Lesotho Journalism -- Management -- Lesotho Journalism -- Technological innovations -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3501 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006112
- Description: This research is based on a case study of MoAfrika, a news organisation that has embraced digitisation to produce and distribute content across three platforms. It draws upon observation and in-depth interviews to show how MoAfrika's embrace of a degree of convergence has led to a fragmentation for journalists whose daily work now include additional responsibilities and pressures of time. While there is an increase in the quantity of news disseminated via radio, newspaper and online, questions arise about the quality of such news produced in a multi-skilled, multiple media news production environment. The result is repurposed stories with little original content and augmented employee workloads without training and compensation. The study examines these issues drawing on theories of gatekeeping and convergence. The decision to include a news story at MoAfrika depends partly on which medium it fits into most easily. News values, deadlines, organisational norms and national trends are some of the considerations which factored into gatekeepers' decisions. Primary decision-making was made within a group which also considered expense and expertise, and where the Managing Editor made the final call and set the frameworks for how content played across the enterprise's three platforms.
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An investigation of school gardens in the curriculum: recontextualising the biodiversity discourse in the national curriculum statement: a case of Mount Zion Junior Secondary School
- Authors: Tundzi, Kenneth Simphiwe Vuyisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South African National Biodiversity Institute Curriculum change -- South Africa Case studies Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Case studies School gardens -- South Africa -- Case studies Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Case studies Teacher participation in curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Case studies Educational change -- South Africa -- Case studies Education -- South Africa -- Curricula Education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1642 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003524
- Description: With the dawning of a new era in South African politics in 1994 it became evident that education was going to be re-organised along with other government structures in South Africa. I begin the study by reviewing this curriculum change in South Africa that has taken place since 1995. This involved the development Curriculum 2005 (C2005) and the subsequent revision of C2005, which is now the National Curriculum Statement (NCS). This curriculum introduced an environmental focus into all the Learning Areas, which gave teachers a mandate not only to teach about environmental concepts and issues (such as biodiversity) at schools but to also address them in the communities outside the schools. This study considers biodiversity issues as biodiversity is a new focus in South African policy more broadly, and particularly in the Natural Science Learning Area. Our school has received vegetable and indigenous plant gardens from the South African National Biodiversity Institute, which provides a rich new resource for teaching about biodiversity, particularly in the Natural Sciences. My interest in the study was to investigate how schools (teachers) can use school gardens in the recontextualisation of the National Curriculum Statements focusing on the Natural Science Learning Area in Grade 7 at my school. I used Bernstein’s (1990) concepts of delocation, relocation, ideological transformation and selective appropriation and Cornbleth’s (1990) theory of curriculum contextualization to understand and interpret the recontextualisation process in the four lessons studied. In this research I was involved in the planning of the lessons with the Grade 7 Natural Science teacher. I taught one lesson as a demonstration and then observed while the teacher taught the other three lessons. I conducted this study as an action research case study. I used focus group interviews, classroom observations, document analysis and interviews as methods of data collection. The study found that the use of school gardens for teaching biodiversity can help with the recontextualisation of NCS in schools, and for the teaching of biodiversity, but that there is a need to understand and address various recontextualisation issues if this is to be done effectively. The study revealed that use of the school gardens for learning about biodiversity in the NS Learning Area is influenced by teachers’ knowledge, experience, teaching styles and available resources, as well as management issues and the complexity of the NCS discourse itself. The study also revealed that socio-cultural and structural factors (e.g. language and class size) also affect how biodiversity is taught in schools, and thus how the recontextualisation of the NCS takes place. The study concludes by making recommendations for taking this work forward in the context of our school as it addresses the gap that exists between policy and practice.
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