Blogging, journalism and the public sphere: assessing the value of the 'blogosphere' as a new form of the public sphere : a case study of the Mail & Guardian Online's Blogmark
- Authors: Sibanda, Fortune
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Habermas, Jürgen -- Criticism and interpretation , Mail & Guardian , Blogs -- South Africa , Online journalism -- South Africa , Electronic newspapers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3483 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002938 , Habermas, Jürgen -- Criticism and interpretation , Mail & Guardian , Blogs -- South Africa , Online journalism -- South Africa , Electronic newspapers -- South Africa
- Description: The study seeks to investigate whether weblogs can act as virtual public spheres, where people can meet to discuss issues of interest to them. It uses the Mail & Guardian Online’s Blogmark as a case study. Weblogs – highly interactive online journals comprised of links and postings in reverse chronological order – are fast becoming an avenue of choice for many internet users wanting to share opinions and news with others online. Because of their unique read-and-write characteristics, some have equated them to the 18th century coffeehouses, around which the early forms of citizen involvement in public affairs began in early capitalist Europe. Despite their growing popularity, however, not much scholarly work has been dedicated to the practice of blogging in Africa, and particularly in South Africa. The study’s theoretical framework is drawn from Jürgen Habermas’s concept of the public sphere. While noting some of the criticisms of the Habermasian model, it is argued that the concept is instrumental in our understanding of the relationship between the media and democracy. The study, however, adopted a re-worked model of the concept of the public sphere. This model argues for the need to have a multiplicity of public sphericules (instead of one single public sphere as advocated by Habermas), around which individuals can congregate to discuss issues of common concern to them. Using a combination of qualitative content analysis, self-completion questionnaires and a semi-structured interview, the study found Blogmark to be an example of how emerging internet genres such as weblogs can be vehicles of citizen involvement in public life. A range of issues were discussed in the blog, from politics, race and ii i gender issues, to personal anecdotes, relationships, and sex. However, while some posts exhibited high levels of interactivity, with many bloggers joining in to offer their opinions, some read like online monologues. The study argues that although blogging is a practice that is still limited to a few privileged individuals, with the everrising size of the ‘blogosphere’, weblogs such as Blogmark are making a small but not insignificant contribution to the number of voices that can be heard in the public realm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Sibanda, Fortune
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Habermas, Jürgen -- Criticism and interpretation , Mail & Guardian , Blogs -- South Africa , Online journalism -- South Africa , Electronic newspapers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3483 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002938 , Habermas, Jürgen -- Criticism and interpretation , Mail & Guardian , Blogs -- South Africa , Online journalism -- South Africa , Electronic newspapers -- South Africa
- Description: The study seeks to investigate whether weblogs can act as virtual public spheres, where people can meet to discuss issues of interest to them. It uses the Mail & Guardian Online’s Blogmark as a case study. Weblogs – highly interactive online journals comprised of links and postings in reverse chronological order – are fast becoming an avenue of choice for many internet users wanting to share opinions and news with others online. Because of their unique read-and-write characteristics, some have equated them to the 18th century coffeehouses, around which the early forms of citizen involvement in public affairs began in early capitalist Europe. Despite their growing popularity, however, not much scholarly work has been dedicated to the practice of blogging in Africa, and particularly in South Africa. The study’s theoretical framework is drawn from Jürgen Habermas’s concept of the public sphere. While noting some of the criticisms of the Habermasian model, it is argued that the concept is instrumental in our understanding of the relationship between the media and democracy. The study, however, adopted a re-worked model of the concept of the public sphere. This model argues for the need to have a multiplicity of public sphericules (instead of one single public sphere as advocated by Habermas), around which individuals can congregate to discuss issues of common concern to them. Using a combination of qualitative content analysis, self-completion questionnaires and a semi-structured interview, the study found Blogmark to be an example of how emerging internet genres such as weblogs can be vehicles of citizen involvement in public life. A range of issues were discussed in the blog, from politics, race and ii i gender issues, to personal anecdotes, relationships, and sex. However, while some posts exhibited high levels of interactivity, with many bloggers joining in to offer their opinions, some read like online monologues. The study argues that although blogging is a practice that is still limited to a few privileged individuals, with the everrising size of the ‘blogosphere’, weblogs such as Blogmark are making a small but not insignificant contribution to the number of voices that can be heard in the public realm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Building cultural capital through value-driven leadership: a case study in an international finance company
- Authors: Ackerman, Mariana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Financial institutions, International -- Namibia Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia Case studies , Corporate culture -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational change -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:2919 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002428 , Financial institutions, International -- Namibia Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia Case studies , Corporate culture -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational change -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia Case studies
- Description: Today, organizations are placed under extreme pressure to adapt to the ever-increasing changes in their environments in order to survive. Research proves that corporate culture has the ability to either blunt or aid change. Past research conducted in Z-Nam, a subsidiary of an international finance company situated in Namibia, indicated that a divided culture resulted in limitations in their functioning, including their adaptability. Pressure was placed on Z-Nam by its majority shareholder to internalise a set of core values into its daily functioning in order to build a strong adaptable culture. This objective called for values-driven leadership. The four core values identified by Head Office were integrity, respect, accountability and pushing beyond boundaries. In becoming more values-driven, values theory posits that Z-Nam will build its cultural capital and so reap the benefits of higher performance, talent retention and adaptability. In this way Z-Nam will be able to combat the weaknesses in its current culture. Leadership adaptability and the capacity to lead change were seen to distinguish cultural changes that succeed from those that do not. Principles inherent in the field of OD were also considered, as they are seen to assist in the effective management of change. The methodology involved a purposive sample being drawn that included the top leadership team and internal OD consultant. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematic analysis employed in analysing the resultant data with three main aims in mind. Firstly, to assess Z-Nam's top management's perception of the current set of values being lived in the organization, to establish their level of support for the desired set of values proposed by Head Office and lastly to establish whether the leadership team is ready to promote the adoption of a new set of core values. Through comparing the themes that emerged from the data with literature on OD, values, culture and change, the researcher was able to make inferences as to the leadership's readiness and capacity to successfully lead cultural change. These findings were substantiated with secondary data from previous research activities. It was found that Z-Nam was not utilising its culture as an asset and that several barriers existed to adopting and implementing the desired values. It was concluded that Z-Nam will not be able to successfully embark on cultural change until its leadership recognises the importance of culture and their personal responsibility in bringing about the desired change, adequately assimilates information from past research and comes to a consensus as to the necessary accommodations that need to be made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ackerman, Mariana
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Financial institutions, International -- Namibia Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia Case studies , Corporate culture -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational change -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:2919 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002428 , Financial institutions, International -- Namibia Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia Case studies , Corporate culture -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational change -- Namibia Case studies , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia Case studies
- Description: Today, organizations are placed under extreme pressure to adapt to the ever-increasing changes in their environments in order to survive. Research proves that corporate culture has the ability to either blunt or aid change. Past research conducted in Z-Nam, a subsidiary of an international finance company situated in Namibia, indicated that a divided culture resulted in limitations in their functioning, including their adaptability. Pressure was placed on Z-Nam by its majority shareholder to internalise a set of core values into its daily functioning in order to build a strong adaptable culture. This objective called for values-driven leadership. The four core values identified by Head Office were integrity, respect, accountability and pushing beyond boundaries. In becoming more values-driven, values theory posits that Z-Nam will build its cultural capital and so reap the benefits of higher performance, talent retention and adaptability. In this way Z-Nam will be able to combat the weaknesses in its current culture. Leadership adaptability and the capacity to lead change were seen to distinguish cultural changes that succeed from those that do not. Principles inherent in the field of OD were also considered, as they are seen to assist in the effective management of change. The methodology involved a purposive sample being drawn that included the top leadership team and internal OD consultant. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematic analysis employed in analysing the resultant data with three main aims in mind. Firstly, to assess Z-Nam's top management's perception of the current set of values being lived in the organization, to establish their level of support for the desired set of values proposed by Head Office and lastly to establish whether the leadership team is ready to promote the adoption of a new set of core values. Through comparing the themes that emerged from the data with literature on OD, values, culture and change, the researcher was able to make inferences as to the leadership's readiness and capacity to successfully lead cultural change. These findings were substantiated with secondary data from previous research activities. It was found that Z-Nam was not utilising its culture as an asset and that several barriers existed to adopting and implementing the desired values. It was concluded that Z-Nam will not be able to successfully embark on cultural change until its leadership recognises the importance of culture and their personal responsibility in bringing about the desired change, adequately assimilates information from past research and comes to a consensus as to the necessary accommodations that need to be made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Cases of recontextualising the environmental discourse in the National Curriculum Statement (R-9)
- Authors: Ramsarup, Presha
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Education -- South Africa -- Curricula Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1444 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003325
- Description: With an intention of opening a vantage point on the story of how curriculum is actually created, this study follows the recontextualising of the environmental discourse of the National Curriculum Statement (R-9) in three case sites. These are: Grade seven Department of Education training material developed to introduce educators to the NCS (R-9), Delta Environmental Centre an environmental education non-governmental organisation, a rural primary school situated south of Durban. Using elements of the Bernstein’s (1990) framework of pedagogic discourse, the study traces how the environmental discourse was de-located from the field of production and relocated into the pedagogic practice of each case. In trying to follow the continuity, changes and discontinuities in the official [environmental] discourse as it is recontextualised, the study utilises Bernstein’s conceptual constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation. These constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation enabled me to ‘look into’ each case and get a perspective of how to explain the recontextualising processes. The study acknowledged that discourses are shaped and steered by historical, political and economic realities and begins by tracing the genesis of the environmental discourse within formal curriculum policy in South Africa. This socio-historical review highlights the main factors and happenings that shaped the present curriculum discourse and its production as official policy discourse. The study highlighted that within each case the recontextualising story is unique but some clear patterns emerged as factors that impacted on recontextualising processes. These were the role of history and context, knowledge and experience of the discourse, ideology and emphasis, and the depth with which the discourse was engaged. The discussion of these factors gave valuable insights into the recontextualising of curriculum discourses. The study comments on the need to clarify the environmental focus in the Learning Areas and to actualise this into practice so that the discourse becomes an integral part of teaching, learning and assessment. The study also highlights the need for professional development opportunities that will enable educators to clarify the nature and focus of the environmental discourse in the NCS (R-9), and its articulation in Learning Area in context. In particular, the environment and social justice relationships appear to require greater clarity of focus and interpretation in recontextualising processes. There also appears to be a need to develop educators’ foundational knowledge of environmental issues to strengthen the recontextualising of this discourse.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ramsarup, Presha
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Education -- South Africa -- Curricula Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1444 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003325
- Description: With an intention of opening a vantage point on the story of how curriculum is actually created, this study follows the recontextualising of the environmental discourse of the National Curriculum Statement (R-9) in three case sites. These are: Grade seven Department of Education training material developed to introduce educators to the NCS (R-9), Delta Environmental Centre an environmental education non-governmental organisation, a rural primary school situated south of Durban. Using elements of the Bernstein’s (1990) framework of pedagogic discourse, the study traces how the environmental discourse was de-located from the field of production and relocated into the pedagogic practice of each case. In trying to follow the continuity, changes and discontinuities in the official [environmental] discourse as it is recontextualised, the study utilises Bernstein’s conceptual constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation. These constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation enabled me to ‘look into’ each case and get a perspective of how to explain the recontextualising processes. The study acknowledged that discourses are shaped and steered by historical, political and economic realities and begins by tracing the genesis of the environmental discourse within formal curriculum policy in South Africa. This socio-historical review highlights the main factors and happenings that shaped the present curriculum discourse and its production as official policy discourse. The study highlighted that within each case the recontextualising story is unique but some clear patterns emerged as factors that impacted on recontextualising processes. These were the role of history and context, knowledge and experience of the discourse, ideology and emphasis, and the depth with which the discourse was engaged. The discussion of these factors gave valuable insights into the recontextualising of curriculum discourses. The study comments on the need to clarify the environmental focus in the Learning Areas and to actualise this into practice so that the discourse becomes an integral part of teaching, learning and assessment. The study also highlights the need for professional development opportunities that will enable educators to clarify the nature and focus of the environmental discourse in the NCS (R-9), and its articulation in Learning Area in context. In particular, the environment and social justice relationships appear to require greater clarity of focus and interpretation in recontextualising processes. There also appears to be a need to develop educators’ foundational knowledge of environmental issues to strengthen the recontextualising of this discourse.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Changes in English writing in computer mediated communication a case study
- Authors: Yang, Ranran
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/452 , Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Description: This research study aims to identity the shifts in form and function of English writing in Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) and determine whether writing changed through CMC. It critically evaluates English writing in CMC in South Africa, and includes a case study of both synchronous and asynchronous forms of CMC. Chapter 1, outlines the problem concerning the changes of writing in both form and function in the present age of CMC. This chapter, also gives a detailed description and outlines the methodology of this study. Chapter 2, centres on the historical and theoretical aspects of writing using the work done by scholars such as McLuhan, Shlain and Baron. The literature is divided into two subsections. The research and theories highlights the importance and complexity of writing in human history. It also gives insight into understanding the impacts of different mediums on writing. This chapter similarly depicts an understanding in the use of writing to represent language, and in particular, how speech and writing divvied up communication functions in literature societies. Chapter 3, gives a detailed theoretical and critical outline of writing in the present age of CMC. Based on the nature of the computer medium, writing in CMC often has its own characteristics which can serve both developmental and social purposes. The aim of this chapter is to grasp an appropriate analogy through which to capture the changes the computer technology would engender in writing communication, and re-examine the relationship between writing and speech in CMC. Chapter 4, comprises of an empirical research study done in South African on-line discourse, focusing on the changes of writing in CMC. The hypothesis of this case study is that writing in CMC differentiates the conventional writing in a variety of ways. Therefore, the study looks at the particular writing style in CMC and determines whether computer-mediated writing is gradually becoming a mirror of speech. This chapter explains methodology and the process of data coding in this case study. It also includes a summary of the survey results, as well as a discussion of the findings from this case study. Chapter 5, includes a conclusion of this study and suggestions for further research. It is the hope of the researcher that this study will provoke questions and thoughts for further inquiries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Yang, Ranran
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/452 , Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Description: This research study aims to identity the shifts in form and function of English writing in Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) and determine whether writing changed through CMC. It critically evaluates English writing in CMC in South Africa, and includes a case study of both synchronous and asynchronous forms of CMC. Chapter 1, outlines the problem concerning the changes of writing in both form and function in the present age of CMC. This chapter, also gives a detailed description and outlines the methodology of this study. Chapter 2, centres on the historical and theoretical aspects of writing using the work done by scholars such as McLuhan, Shlain and Baron. The literature is divided into two subsections. The research and theories highlights the importance and complexity of writing in human history. It also gives insight into understanding the impacts of different mediums on writing. This chapter similarly depicts an understanding in the use of writing to represent language, and in particular, how speech and writing divvied up communication functions in literature societies. Chapter 3, gives a detailed theoretical and critical outline of writing in the present age of CMC. Based on the nature of the computer medium, writing in CMC often has its own characteristics which can serve both developmental and social purposes. The aim of this chapter is to grasp an appropriate analogy through which to capture the changes the computer technology would engender in writing communication, and re-examine the relationship between writing and speech in CMC. Chapter 4, comprises of an empirical research study done in South African on-line discourse, focusing on the changes of writing in CMC. The hypothesis of this case study is that writing in CMC differentiates the conventional writing in a variety of ways. Therefore, the study looks at the particular writing style in CMC and determines whether computer-mediated writing is gradually becoming a mirror of speech. This chapter explains methodology and the process of data coding in this case study. It also includes a summary of the survey results, as well as a discussion of the findings from this case study. Chapter 5, includes a conclusion of this study and suggestions for further research. It is the hope of the researcher that this study will provoke questions and thoughts for further inquiries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Changes in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite soccer players aged 15 to 18 years within a training year
- Authors: Baatjes, Sherman Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10100 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/472 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011990 , Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal changes that occur in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite junior soccer players over the course of a training year. The participants targeted were elite soccer players from the NMMU-FCK Soccer School of Excellence and a total of 18 players between the ages of 15 to 18 years were recruited to comprise the sample for the study. The participants in the sample were assessed on four separate occasions. Each testing period was separated by a three month interval with the first testing period taking place in June 2005, at the start of their pre-season period, and the last testing session taking place in March of the following year, at the end of their playing season. In order to determine which specific characteristics of soccer were to be tested, the relevant literature was reviewed to establish the requirements, attributes and indicators of success in elite soccer. Therefore the test battery used was compiled in an attempt to address each of the identified physical attributes that contributes to successful soccer play. The battery included the following tests: weight, height and percentage body fat to represent the anthropometric characteristics. The physical characteristics were assessed by testing flexibility, anaerobic speed endurance, aerobic endurance, and muscular strength tests (1 RM bench and leg press, grip strength, and isokinetic knee strength). The motor assessments comprised of tests for speed (10-m, 20-m, and 40-m), explosive leg power (vertical jump), agility, and soccer-specific tests (dribbling and shooting at goal). In addition maturity status during the study was assessed using grip strength and height scores. All of the participants within the study sample were assessed on each day of the testing period, in alphabetical order, and this order was maintained during each testing period. Each of the four testing sessions lasted three days. On entering the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University-Biokinetics and Sport Science Centre (NMMU-BSSC) laboratory on day 1, the participants completed the test battery in the following order: anthropometric measurements (weight, height, skinfolds), flexibility test (sit and reach), leg power test (vertical jump), muscular strength tests (1RM bench press, 1RM leg press, grip strength), and an aerobic endurance test (Multi-Stage Shuttle Run). The tests conducted on day 2 of the test battery were conducted as field tests at the NMMU-FCK soccer playing fields and the participants completed the tests in the same alphabetical order as day 1. The testing battery was conducted in the following order: speed tests (10m, 20m, and 40m sprinting), agility test (Illinois agility run), soccer-specific tests (dribbling and accuracy tests), speed endurance test (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test). Testing on day 3 consisted of Isokinetic dynamometry strength testing and was conducted at the NMMU-BSSC. Each participant completed the testing protocol according to the same alphabetical order as was used on days 1 and 2. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were set: to determine the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of the participants at the pre-season, start of season, mid-season and end of season stages of the training year and to identify the peak scores achieved for each variable tested; to compare the variables tested at each of the four testing sessions to determine the progression of each variable tested and to identify at which testing session peak performance related fitness was achieved; to compare the results obtained with relevant data from other research literature; and to monitor the maturation status of the participants. Based on the results achieved it can be concluded that the participants achieved peak physical fitness at the mid-season period (testing session 3). It would appear that the attainment of these results was determined by the participants being exposed to both a pre-season and an in-season training period. It seems that both the completion of the specific types of training that occurred during these two periods, as well as the competitive matches played, elevated the participants physical fitness to the levels required for success at the elite level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Baatjes, Sherman Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10100 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/472 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011990 , Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal changes that occur in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite junior soccer players over the course of a training year. The participants targeted were elite soccer players from the NMMU-FCK Soccer School of Excellence and a total of 18 players between the ages of 15 to 18 years were recruited to comprise the sample for the study. The participants in the sample were assessed on four separate occasions. Each testing period was separated by a three month interval with the first testing period taking place in June 2005, at the start of their pre-season period, and the last testing session taking place in March of the following year, at the end of their playing season. In order to determine which specific characteristics of soccer were to be tested, the relevant literature was reviewed to establish the requirements, attributes and indicators of success in elite soccer. Therefore the test battery used was compiled in an attempt to address each of the identified physical attributes that contributes to successful soccer play. The battery included the following tests: weight, height and percentage body fat to represent the anthropometric characteristics. The physical characteristics were assessed by testing flexibility, anaerobic speed endurance, aerobic endurance, and muscular strength tests (1 RM bench and leg press, grip strength, and isokinetic knee strength). The motor assessments comprised of tests for speed (10-m, 20-m, and 40-m), explosive leg power (vertical jump), agility, and soccer-specific tests (dribbling and shooting at goal). In addition maturity status during the study was assessed using grip strength and height scores. All of the participants within the study sample were assessed on each day of the testing period, in alphabetical order, and this order was maintained during each testing period. Each of the four testing sessions lasted three days. On entering the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University-Biokinetics and Sport Science Centre (NMMU-BSSC) laboratory on day 1, the participants completed the test battery in the following order: anthropometric measurements (weight, height, skinfolds), flexibility test (sit and reach), leg power test (vertical jump), muscular strength tests (1RM bench press, 1RM leg press, grip strength), and an aerobic endurance test (Multi-Stage Shuttle Run). The tests conducted on day 2 of the test battery were conducted as field tests at the NMMU-FCK soccer playing fields and the participants completed the tests in the same alphabetical order as day 1. The testing battery was conducted in the following order: speed tests (10m, 20m, and 40m sprinting), agility test (Illinois agility run), soccer-specific tests (dribbling and accuracy tests), speed endurance test (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test). Testing on day 3 consisted of Isokinetic dynamometry strength testing and was conducted at the NMMU-BSSC. Each participant completed the testing protocol according to the same alphabetical order as was used on days 1 and 2. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were set: to determine the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of the participants at the pre-season, start of season, mid-season and end of season stages of the training year and to identify the peak scores achieved for each variable tested; to compare the variables tested at each of the four testing sessions to determine the progression of each variable tested and to identify at which testing session peak performance related fitness was achieved; to compare the results obtained with relevant data from other research literature; and to monitor the maturation status of the participants. Based on the results achieved it can be concluded that the participants achieved peak physical fitness at the mid-season period (testing session 3). It would appear that the attainment of these results was determined by the participants being exposed to both a pre-season and an in-season training period. It seems that both the completion of the specific types of training that occurred during these two periods, as well as the competitive matches played, elevated the participants physical fitness to the levels required for success at the elite level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Communication strategies in management: a case study of interpersonal manager-staff communication at a South African university
- Authors: Balarin, Megan Georgina
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Communication in management -- South Africa Interpersonal communication -- South Africa Communication -- Education College personnel management -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1452 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003333
- Description: Communication is a central feature of human life. The ability to talk is the very feature that distinguishes us from our primate ancestors. Knowing how to use language effectively gives the bearers of this knowledge power over their environment and an upper hand in their dealings with others. Thus, understanding the importance of communication in management is an essential tool for managers who wish to build and develop their organisations and their staff within these organisations. This thesis takes a case study view of manager-staff communication at a South African university. In this study managers and staff members contribute their feelings on current communication practices at this organisation through an online questionnaire and in-depth interviews. In an interpretive paradigm this thesis answers three central questions: 1) what role do managers and staff think communication plays in their working relationships, 2) what do they perceive to be effective and ineffective communication strategies and 3) What strategies can they suggest to enhance effective communication? Through in-depth qualitative research and numerical data analysis this thesis discovers central themes that pertain to the effective flow of communication in this organisation. These themes include: motivation and praise, the role of listening, building relationships, respect, acknowledging others’ languages and cultures, building teams, communicating frequently and using email and technology effectively, as well as keeping notes of meetings and discussions. Challenges to effective communication include not having enough time, suffering from stress, and the challenges of physical space and distance. By paying attention to basic human principles, such as the fact that acknowledging people for a job well done encourages them to perform well in future, this thesis relates the general concepts of communication and management theory to the specific realities and individual, personal experiences of manager-staff communication. In this way it sheds a beam of light on management communication practices and points the way towards an ideal where managers and staff members use communication as a tool of empowerment and understanding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Balarin, Megan Georgina
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Communication in management -- South Africa Interpersonal communication -- South Africa Communication -- Education College personnel management -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1452 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003333
- Description: Communication is a central feature of human life. The ability to talk is the very feature that distinguishes us from our primate ancestors. Knowing how to use language effectively gives the bearers of this knowledge power over their environment and an upper hand in their dealings with others. Thus, understanding the importance of communication in management is an essential tool for managers who wish to build and develop their organisations and their staff within these organisations. This thesis takes a case study view of manager-staff communication at a South African university. In this study managers and staff members contribute their feelings on current communication practices at this organisation through an online questionnaire and in-depth interviews. In an interpretive paradigm this thesis answers three central questions: 1) what role do managers and staff think communication plays in their working relationships, 2) what do they perceive to be effective and ineffective communication strategies and 3) What strategies can they suggest to enhance effective communication? Through in-depth qualitative research and numerical data analysis this thesis discovers central themes that pertain to the effective flow of communication in this organisation. These themes include: motivation and praise, the role of listening, building relationships, respect, acknowledging others’ languages and cultures, building teams, communicating frequently and using email and technology effectively, as well as keeping notes of meetings and discussions. Challenges to effective communication include not having enough time, suffering from stress, and the challenges of physical space and distance. By paying attention to basic human principles, such as the fact that acknowledging people for a job well done encourages them to perform well in future, this thesis relates the general concepts of communication and management theory to the specific realities and individual, personal experiences of manager-staff communication. In this way it sheds a beam of light on management communication practices and points the way towards an ideal where managers and staff members use communication as a tool of empowerment and understanding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Community structure and predation impact of carnivorous macrozooplankton in the polar frontal zone (Southern Ocean), with particular reference to chaetognaths
- Authors: Lukáč, Danica
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zooplankton -- Antarctic Ocean , Chaetognatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5653 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005336 , Zooplankton -- Antarctic Ocean , Chaetognatha
- Description: The community structure and predation impact of carnivorous macrozooplankton (>2 cm; chaetognaths, medusae, ctenophores and mysids), with particular emphasis on the chaetognaths Eukrohnia hamata and Sagitta gazellae, were investigated during three surveys conducted in late austral summer (April/May) of 2001, 2004 and 2005 in the Polar Frontal Zone in the vicinity of the Prince Edward Islands (46º45’S, 37º50’E), Southern Ocean. The 2001 survey formed part of the Marion Offshore Variability Ecosystem Study (MOVES II), while the 2004 and 2005 surveys formed part of the Dynamics of Eddy Impacts on Marion’s Ecosystem study (DEIMEC III and IV respectively). Macrozooplankton samples were collected using WP-2, RMT-8 and Bongo nets. Results of the hydrographic survey indicated that the region of investigation, the Polar Frontal Zone (PFZ), is an area of high mesoscale variability. During the 2004 survey the Antarctic Polar Front (APF) and the Subantarctic Front (SAF) merged to form an intense frontal feature with subsurface temperature and salinity ranging from 8.5-7.5ºC and 34.15-33.88, respectively. A cyclonic cold core eddy, believed to have been spawned from the APF, was observed during the 2005 survey. Macrozooplankton abundance and biomass ranged from 0 to 43.731 ind. m⁻³, and from 0 to 41.55 mg wwt m⁻³ respectively, during the three surveys. Among the carnivorous macrozooplankton, chaetognaths (Eukrohnia hamata and Sagitta gazellae) were most prominent, contributing up to 85% of the total biomass during all three surveys. Elevated biomass values were found near and within the frontal feature during the 2004 survey, and also along the eddy edge during the 2005 survey. However, hierarchical cluster analysis did not reveal the presence of distinct zooplankton groupings associated with the various water masses encountered during the surveys and this is probably due to the high mesoscale variability in oceanographic conditions that are characteristic of the PFZ. The total average predation impact of the selected carnivorous macrozooplankton during the 2001, 2004 and 2005 surveys accounted for 4.93 ± 6.76%, 0.55 ± 0.51% and 4.88 ± 4.45 of the mesozooplankton standing stock, respectively. S. gazellae had the highest consumption rate in all three surveys, consuming up to 800 g Dwt 1000m⁻³d⁻¹ during the study. Of the two chaetognaths, E. hamata dominated the chaetognath standing stock. The combined abundance and biomass values of E. hamata and S. gazellae ranged from 0 to 43.73 ind. m⁻³ and from 0 to 41.551 mg wwt m⁻³ respectively, during the three surveys. Inter-annual variability in the chaetognath densities was apparent. Highest abundances and biomasses tended to be associated with specific water masses, confirming the existence of a relationship between zooplankton community structure and hydrographic conditions. Generally, about 90% of the chaetognaths contained no food in their guts. S. gazellae consumed a wider variety of prey. Oil droplets occurred in the guts of ≈ 51% of E. hamata. Cannibalism was low in both species, but greater in S. gazellae than E. hamata. During the three surveys, the feeding rate values of E. hamata and S. gazellae went up to 0.48 and 2.099 prey d⁻¹ respectively. S. gazellae also had a greater predation impact on the mesozooplankton standing stock than E. hamata. The mean predation impact of the chaetognaths combined was 0.31 ± 0.291%, 0.52 ± 0.28% and 0.53 ± 0.56% of the mesozooplankton standing stock during the 2001, 2004 and 2005 surveys, respectively. During all three surveys, the majority of individuals (≈ 76%) of the chaetognaths were at stage I maturity, suggesting that during the time of study the chaetognaths were not reproducing. In both species a significant difference (log-linear analysis, p < 0.05) in maturities between the years investigated was observed. In general, there were no differences in lengths and maturities between the different water masses encountered during the surveys. The lengths of E. hamata and S. gazellae ranged from 5 to 24 mm and from 9.4 to 63.6 mm, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Lukáč, Danica
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zooplankton -- Antarctic Ocean , Chaetognatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5653 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005336 , Zooplankton -- Antarctic Ocean , Chaetognatha
- Description: The community structure and predation impact of carnivorous macrozooplankton (>2 cm; chaetognaths, medusae, ctenophores and mysids), with particular emphasis on the chaetognaths Eukrohnia hamata and Sagitta gazellae, were investigated during three surveys conducted in late austral summer (April/May) of 2001, 2004 and 2005 in the Polar Frontal Zone in the vicinity of the Prince Edward Islands (46º45’S, 37º50’E), Southern Ocean. The 2001 survey formed part of the Marion Offshore Variability Ecosystem Study (MOVES II), while the 2004 and 2005 surveys formed part of the Dynamics of Eddy Impacts on Marion’s Ecosystem study (DEIMEC III and IV respectively). Macrozooplankton samples were collected using WP-2, RMT-8 and Bongo nets. Results of the hydrographic survey indicated that the region of investigation, the Polar Frontal Zone (PFZ), is an area of high mesoscale variability. During the 2004 survey the Antarctic Polar Front (APF) and the Subantarctic Front (SAF) merged to form an intense frontal feature with subsurface temperature and salinity ranging from 8.5-7.5ºC and 34.15-33.88, respectively. A cyclonic cold core eddy, believed to have been spawned from the APF, was observed during the 2005 survey. Macrozooplankton abundance and biomass ranged from 0 to 43.731 ind. m⁻³, and from 0 to 41.55 mg wwt m⁻³ respectively, during the three surveys. Among the carnivorous macrozooplankton, chaetognaths (Eukrohnia hamata and Sagitta gazellae) were most prominent, contributing up to 85% of the total biomass during all three surveys. Elevated biomass values were found near and within the frontal feature during the 2004 survey, and also along the eddy edge during the 2005 survey. However, hierarchical cluster analysis did not reveal the presence of distinct zooplankton groupings associated with the various water masses encountered during the surveys and this is probably due to the high mesoscale variability in oceanographic conditions that are characteristic of the PFZ. The total average predation impact of the selected carnivorous macrozooplankton during the 2001, 2004 and 2005 surveys accounted for 4.93 ± 6.76%, 0.55 ± 0.51% and 4.88 ± 4.45 of the mesozooplankton standing stock, respectively. S. gazellae had the highest consumption rate in all three surveys, consuming up to 800 g Dwt 1000m⁻³d⁻¹ during the study. Of the two chaetognaths, E. hamata dominated the chaetognath standing stock. The combined abundance and biomass values of E. hamata and S. gazellae ranged from 0 to 43.73 ind. m⁻³ and from 0 to 41.551 mg wwt m⁻³ respectively, during the three surveys. Inter-annual variability in the chaetognath densities was apparent. Highest abundances and biomasses tended to be associated with specific water masses, confirming the existence of a relationship between zooplankton community structure and hydrographic conditions. Generally, about 90% of the chaetognaths contained no food in their guts. S. gazellae consumed a wider variety of prey. Oil droplets occurred in the guts of ≈ 51% of E. hamata. Cannibalism was low in both species, but greater in S. gazellae than E. hamata. During the three surveys, the feeding rate values of E. hamata and S. gazellae went up to 0.48 and 2.099 prey d⁻¹ respectively. S. gazellae also had a greater predation impact on the mesozooplankton standing stock than E. hamata. The mean predation impact of the chaetognaths combined was 0.31 ± 0.291%, 0.52 ± 0.28% and 0.53 ± 0.56% of the mesozooplankton standing stock during the 2001, 2004 and 2005 surveys, respectively. During all three surveys, the majority of individuals (≈ 76%) of the chaetognaths were at stage I maturity, suggesting that during the time of study the chaetognaths were not reproducing. In both species a significant difference (log-linear analysis, p < 0.05) in maturities between the years investigated was observed. In general, there were no differences in lengths and maturities between the different water masses encountered during the surveys. The lengths of E. hamata and S. gazellae ranged from 5 to 24 mm and from 9.4 to 63.6 mm, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Comparitive study of automation strategies at VW Germany and South Africa
- Authors: Wessel, Oliver
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/823 , Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Description: This master thesis analyses the Volkswagen assembly lines of the Golf A5 manufacture in the mother plant in Wolfsburg, the Touran manufacture in the Auto 5000 GmbH in Wolfsburg as well as the Golf A5 manufacture in Uitenhage in South Africa - all with regard to the level of automation. The target of the analysis is the determination of the optimal level of automation in the three production sites and therefore, the investigation of the potential to automate, or rather to deautomate in particular sections of the assembly in the prevailing production locations. The three production sites are to be investigated with regard to costs, quality and quantity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wessel, Oliver
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/823 , Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Description: This master thesis analyses the Volkswagen assembly lines of the Golf A5 manufacture in the mother plant in Wolfsburg, the Touran manufacture in the Auto 5000 GmbH in Wolfsburg as well as the Golf A5 manufacture in Uitenhage in South Africa - all with regard to the level of automation. The target of the analysis is the determination of the optimal level of automation in the three production sites and therefore, the investigation of the potential to automate, or rather to deautomate in particular sections of the assembly in the prevailing production locations. The three production sites are to be investigated with regard to costs, quality and quantity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Competing interests and change within the pharmacy education system in South Africa
- Authors: Allan, Lucie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- South Africa Pharmacy -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Pharmacy -- Practice -- South Africa Community pharmacy services -- South Africa Community health services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003219
- Description: This thesis provides a historical account of the emergence of the pharmacy education system in South Africa, and an analysis of the influence of competing interest groups over the pharmacy education curriculum. It provides a critical evaluation of structural-consensus and micro-interpretive approaches to medical and pharmacy education, and sets out a macrointerpretive account of pharmacy education in South Africa. Following Margaret Archer (1979) it analyzes three forms of negotiation between competing interest groups in their efforts to change the pharmacy curriculum; these are political manipulation, external transaction and internal initiation. The thesis argues that whilst the private sector interest group (comprising of retail, wholesale and manufacturing pharmacy) dominated the pharmacy education system until 1994, since then a newly emerged government interest group has begun to compete for educational control. The priorities pursued by this interest group have consistently reflected the objectives set out in the ANC National Health Plan of 1994. The thesis maintains that given its frustration over the non-implementation of the ANC’s health policy objectives, the government interest group is likely to resort to direct political manipulation by passing legislation to alter the content of the current pharmacy curriculum. Such changes would seek to ensure that the syllabus more accurately reflects the ANC Plan’s community health and primary health care objectives. The thesis asserts that such an outcome (of direct political manipulation of the curriculum) is not inevitable, and can be avoided through a process of internally initiated change. It presents the findings of an interpretive case study into how the Rhodes University Community Experience Programme (CEP) influenced final year pharmacy students’ perceptions of the role of the pharmacist. The students’ comments were collected by means of focus group interviews, participant observation and documentary analysis. Whilst the CEP did not successfully transform their concept of the pharmacist’s role, it did succeed in influencing students’ understanding of the notions of community pharmacy and primary health care in line with the government interest group’s health objectives. This thesis concludes that internally initiated change within the pharmacy education system, would be preferable to that imposed through external political manipulation, as such change would be more likely to preserve the independent professional interests of pharmacy academics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Allan, Lucie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- South Africa Pharmacy -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Pharmacy -- Practice -- South Africa Community pharmacy services -- South Africa Community health services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003219
- Description: This thesis provides a historical account of the emergence of the pharmacy education system in South Africa, and an analysis of the influence of competing interest groups over the pharmacy education curriculum. It provides a critical evaluation of structural-consensus and micro-interpretive approaches to medical and pharmacy education, and sets out a macrointerpretive account of pharmacy education in South Africa. Following Margaret Archer (1979) it analyzes three forms of negotiation between competing interest groups in their efforts to change the pharmacy curriculum; these are political manipulation, external transaction and internal initiation. The thesis argues that whilst the private sector interest group (comprising of retail, wholesale and manufacturing pharmacy) dominated the pharmacy education system until 1994, since then a newly emerged government interest group has begun to compete for educational control. The priorities pursued by this interest group have consistently reflected the objectives set out in the ANC National Health Plan of 1994. The thesis maintains that given its frustration over the non-implementation of the ANC’s health policy objectives, the government interest group is likely to resort to direct political manipulation by passing legislation to alter the content of the current pharmacy curriculum. Such changes would seek to ensure that the syllabus more accurately reflects the ANC Plan’s community health and primary health care objectives. The thesis asserts that such an outcome (of direct political manipulation of the curriculum) is not inevitable, and can be avoided through a process of internally initiated change. It presents the findings of an interpretive case study into how the Rhodes University Community Experience Programme (CEP) influenced final year pharmacy students’ perceptions of the role of the pharmacist. The students’ comments were collected by means of focus group interviews, participant observation and documentary analysis. Whilst the CEP did not successfully transform their concept of the pharmacist’s role, it did succeed in influencing students’ understanding of the notions of community pharmacy and primary health care in line with the government interest group’s health objectives. This thesis concludes that internally initiated change within the pharmacy education system, would be preferable to that imposed through external political manipulation, as such change would be more likely to preserve the independent professional interests of pharmacy academics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Composition portfolio
- Authors: Wynne, Donovan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music) String quartets -- Scores
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003121
- Description: Introductory remarks: Being a middle-class white South African, I grew up on a diet of predominantly "white" music: rock, pop and Western classical music. I was later introduced to a broader range of musics: blues, jazz, kwaito and traditional Southern African idioms. I found myself particularly attracted to the traditional music of the amaXhosa (especially that of the uhadi bow), possibly due to the fact that this music is hexatonic (that is, based on two major triads whose tonics are one tone apart), a system that bears certain resemblances to the Western tonal idiom. However, much of my musical experience tended to be entrenched in the piano and flute music I played: mostly works by composers who were neatly ensconced in the traditional Western canon. Therefore, despite the broad range of musics with which I was familiarisedduring my tertiary studies, I feel that this early experiential background is the reason I feel most comfortable with Western-influenced music. More recently, I discovered a whole new genre to explore: film music, particularly the work of Elliot Goldenthal, Danny Elfman, John Williams and Philip Glass, whose unique brand of minimalism has extended from the concert hall to thefilm theatre. I am fascinated by the ways in which film scores function. A "main titles" theme usually appears as the film opens, upon which most of the subsequent music is based. This is not a linear process, like a theme and its variations, but a lateral, where the main titles theme is the core that engenders other themes that all share a familial resemblance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wynne, Donovan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music) String quartets -- Scores
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003121
- Description: Introductory remarks: Being a middle-class white South African, I grew up on a diet of predominantly "white" music: rock, pop and Western classical music. I was later introduced to a broader range of musics: blues, jazz, kwaito and traditional Southern African idioms. I found myself particularly attracted to the traditional music of the amaXhosa (especially that of the uhadi bow), possibly due to the fact that this music is hexatonic (that is, based on two major triads whose tonics are one tone apart), a system that bears certain resemblances to the Western tonal idiom. However, much of my musical experience tended to be entrenched in the piano and flute music I played: mostly works by composers who were neatly ensconced in the traditional Western canon. Therefore, despite the broad range of musics with which I was familiarisedduring my tertiary studies, I feel that this early experiential background is the reason I feel most comfortable with Western-influenced music. More recently, I discovered a whole new genre to explore: film music, particularly the work of Elliot Goldenthal, Danny Elfman, John Williams and Philip Glass, whose unique brand of minimalism has extended from the concert hall to thefilm theatre. I am fascinated by the ways in which film scores function. A "main titles" theme usually appears as the film opens, upon which most of the subsequent music is based. This is not a linear process, like a theme and its variations, but a lateral, where the main titles theme is the core that engenders other themes that all share a familial resemblance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Composition portfolio
- Authors: Webb, Cassidy Frank
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2659 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003729
- Description: Introduction: This portfolio consists of musical ideas which I have had for some time now. I have attempted to capture these ideas throughout the portfolio, starting with the smaller works (Brumes et Pluies) and building up to the larger works (James Tiberius, The tide). Brumes et Pluies is minimalistic in style. The interlocking of the two pianos plays an important role in the texture of the piece. The rhythms are repetitive throughout, with only slight variations. Kalahari is more idiomatic, rhythmical and has a main theme which recurs throughout the piece. Melodic fragments are used, sometimes with slight variations. This piece was inspired by the Kalahari desert, with its abundance of life. I enjoy the string quartet because of the homogeneity of sound on the one hand, and the diversity possible by using different techniques and effects on the other. James Tiberius is a work for chamber orchestra. Motifs in the music resemble certain animals. The rhythm is unstable, as is the harmony. There are many melodic fragments throughout. The texture is thin in certain areas (at the beginning) and dense in others (the waltz). The harmony is sometimes unconventional. The Tide was written in response to a memory of a drowning incident I experienced when I was a child. This orchestral piece is strong in form. The opening, for example, is tense and slightly atonal in harmony. The pomposo section tends to utilise most of the orchestra, so the texture is a lot denser here and the harmony is more conventional. I try not to use traditional forms in my composition. Rather, I prefer to compose by re-using and re-introducing ideas as I proceed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Webb, Cassidy Frank
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2659 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003729
- Description: Introduction: This portfolio consists of musical ideas which I have had for some time now. I have attempted to capture these ideas throughout the portfolio, starting with the smaller works (Brumes et Pluies) and building up to the larger works (James Tiberius, The tide). Brumes et Pluies is minimalistic in style. The interlocking of the two pianos plays an important role in the texture of the piece. The rhythms are repetitive throughout, with only slight variations. Kalahari is more idiomatic, rhythmical and has a main theme which recurs throughout the piece. Melodic fragments are used, sometimes with slight variations. This piece was inspired by the Kalahari desert, with its abundance of life. I enjoy the string quartet because of the homogeneity of sound on the one hand, and the diversity possible by using different techniques and effects on the other. James Tiberius is a work for chamber orchestra. Motifs in the music resemble certain animals. The rhythm is unstable, as is the harmony. There are many melodic fragments throughout. The texture is thin in certain areas (at the beginning) and dense in others (the waltz). The harmony is sometimes unconventional. The Tide was written in response to a memory of a drowning incident I experienced when I was a child. This orchestral piece is strong in form. The opening, for example, is tense and slightly atonal in harmony. The pomposo section tends to utilise most of the orchestra, so the texture is a lot denser here and the harmony is more conventional. I try not to use traditional forms in my composition. Rather, I prefer to compose by re-using and re-introducing ideas as I proceed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Contrasting livelihoods in the upper and lower Gariep River basin: a study of livelihood change and household development
- Authors: McDermott, Lindsay
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rural development -- Lesotho , Rural development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sustainable development -- Lesotho , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Rural poor -- Lesotho , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Agriculture -- Lesotho , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:4758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007147 , Rural development -- Lesotho , Rural development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sustainable development -- Lesotho , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Rural poor -- Lesotho , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Agriculture -- Lesotho , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Description: This study investigated rural livelihoods in two contrasting environments in the upper and lower reaches of the Gariep River: Sehlabathebe in the Lesotho highlands, and the Richtersveld in the Northern Cape, and how these have changed over time. Livelihoods were examined using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework in conjunction with the household development cycle. This study therefore adopted a multi-scale approach, where a micro-level household analysis was framed within the macro level social, political, environmental, economic and institutional context, while taking into account the role of temporal scale of livelihood change. A multi-scale approach facilitated the identification of the major drivers of change, both exogenous and endogenous. The combination of livelihood strategies pursued differed between the two sites. Households in Sehlabathebe are reliant mainly on arable and garden cultivation, livestock in some households, occasional remittances, use of wild resources, petty trading and reliance on donations. Households in the Richtersveld relied primarily on livestock, wage labour, use of wild resources and State grants or pensions. The livelihood strategies pursued in each site have not changed markedly over time, but rather the relative importance of those strategies was found to have changed. The assets available to households, the livelihood strategies adopted and the changes in these livelihood strategies are influenced by a households stage in the development cycle and differing macro-level factors. Drivers of change operate at multiple spatial and temporal scales, and are often complex and interrelated. The major drivers of livelihood change were identified as macro-economic, demographic, institutional and social and climatic. This study highlights the importance of using historical analysis in the study of livelihoods, as well as the complexity and diversity of rural livelihoods. Ecosystem goods and services were found to play a fundamental role in rural livelihoods and are influenced by institutional factors. Rural households are heavily reliant on the formal economy, and macro-economic changes have had a significant impact on livelihoods. This is highlighted by how the drastic decline in migrant labour opportunities for households in Sehlabathebe has negatively affected them. Vulnerability was shown to be a result of external shocks and trends, such as institutional transformation, a decline in employment opportunities, theft and climatic variation; and differed between the two sites. The role of institutional breakdown was shown to be a major factor influencing rural livelihoods, and this is related to broader economic and political changes. This study contributes to the growing literature on rural livelihoods by allowing for an appreciation of how differing environments and contextual factors influence livelihood strategies adopted, and which different factors are driving change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: McDermott, Lindsay
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rural development -- Lesotho , Rural development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sustainable development -- Lesotho , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Rural poor -- Lesotho , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Agriculture -- Lesotho , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:4758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007147 , Rural development -- Lesotho , Rural development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sustainable development -- Lesotho , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Households -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Households -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Rural poor -- Lesotho , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Agriculture -- Lesotho , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Description: This study investigated rural livelihoods in two contrasting environments in the upper and lower reaches of the Gariep River: Sehlabathebe in the Lesotho highlands, and the Richtersveld in the Northern Cape, and how these have changed over time. Livelihoods were examined using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework in conjunction with the household development cycle. This study therefore adopted a multi-scale approach, where a micro-level household analysis was framed within the macro level social, political, environmental, economic and institutional context, while taking into account the role of temporal scale of livelihood change. A multi-scale approach facilitated the identification of the major drivers of change, both exogenous and endogenous. The combination of livelihood strategies pursued differed between the two sites. Households in Sehlabathebe are reliant mainly on arable and garden cultivation, livestock in some households, occasional remittances, use of wild resources, petty trading and reliance on donations. Households in the Richtersveld relied primarily on livestock, wage labour, use of wild resources and State grants or pensions. The livelihood strategies pursued in each site have not changed markedly over time, but rather the relative importance of those strategies was found to have changed. The assets available to households, the livelihood strategies adopted and the changes in these livelihood strategies are influenced by a households stage in the development cycle and differing macro-level factors. Drivers of change operate at multiple spatial and temporal scales, and are often complex and interrelated. The major drivers of livelihood change were identified as macro-economic, demographic, institutional and social and climatic. This study highlights the importance of using historical analysis in the study of livelihoods, as well as the complexity and diversity of rural livelihoods. Ecosystem goods and services were found to play a fundamental role in rural livelihoods and are influenced by institutional factors. Rural households are heavily reliant on the formal economy, and macro-economic changes have had a significant impact on livelihoods. This is highlighted by how the drastic decline in migrant labour opportunities for households in Sehlabathebe has negatively affected them. Vulnerability was shown to be a result of external shocks and trends, such as institutional transformation, a decline in employment opportunities, theft and climatic variation; and differed between the two sites. The role of institutional breakdown was shown to be a major factor influencing rural livelihoods, and this is related to broader economic and political changes. This study contributes to the growing literature on rural livelihoods by allowing for an appreciation of how differing environments and contextual factors influence livelihood strategies adopted, and which different factors are driving change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Corporate information risk : an information security governance framework
- Authors: Posthumus, Shaun Murray
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/814 , Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Information Security is currently viewed from a technical point of view only. Some authors believe that Information Security is a process that involves more than merely Risk Management at the department level, as it is also a strategic and potentially legal issue. Hence, there is a need to elevate the importance of Information Security to a governance level through Information Security Governance and propose a framework to help guide the Board of Directors in their Information Security Governance efforts. IT is a major facilitator of organizational business processes and these processes manipulate and transmit sensitive customer and financial information. IT, which involves major risks, may threaten the security if corporate information assets. Therefore, IT requires attention at board level to ensure that technology-related information risks are within an organization’s accepted risk appetite. However, IT issues are a neglected topic at board level and this could bring about enronesque disasters. Therefore, there is a need for the Board of Directors to direct and control IT-related risks effectively to reduce the potential for Information Security breaches and bring about a stronger system of internal control. The IT Oversight Committee is a proven means of achieving this, and this study further motivates the necessity for such a committee to solidify an organization’s Information Security posture among other IT-related issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Posthumus, Shaun Murray
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/814 , Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Information Security is currently viewed from a technical point of view only. Some authors believe that Information Security is a process that involves more than merely Risk Management at the department level, as it is also a strategic and potentially legal issue. Hence, there is a need to elevate the importance of Information Security to a governance level through Information Security Governance and propose a framework to help guide the Board of Directors in their Information Security Governance efforts. IT is a major facilitator of organizational business processes and these processes manipulate and transmit sensitive customer and financial information. IT, which involves major risks, may threaten the security if corporate information assets. Therefore, IT requires attention at board level to ensure that technology-related information risks are within an organization’s accepted risk appetite. However, IT issues are a neglected topic at board level and this could bring about enronesque disasters. Therefore, there is a need for the Board of Directors to direct and control IT-related risks effectively to reduce the potential for Information Security breaches and bring about a stronger system of internal control. The IT Oversight Committee is a proven means of achieving this, and this study further motivates the necessity for such a committee to solidify an organization’s Information Security posture among other IT-related issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Corporate social responsibility: evaluating three South African Companies' initiatives
- Authors: Fourie, Neil
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/568 , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of this research project was to evaluate the available theoretical information on Corporate Social Responsibility and with this knowledge to then also evaluate three companieś initiatives based on this information. Gone are the days when an organisation could do business for the sole purpose of making a profit. If the organisation does not take the environment into account in doing business, or if the community where this organisation is situated or does business, feel “abused” or that their needs are not being addressed, the organisation will not survive and its future sustainability can not be assured or guaranteed. This has been proven internationally, but how does South African organisations fare when it comes to corporate social responsibility, and more specifically, what social responsible initiatives are taken? The research also attempted to determine how “industry specific” the three companies'́ initiatives are and whether any changes in initiative-directions should be considered. The Social Responsibility Initiatives of Woolworths, ENGEN and SABMiller (South Africa) were evaluated and certain shortcomings were identified and presented to the various companies. These companies deliver excellent products and services to their client base, but it was felt that should adherence be given to the recommendations that were made, the mentioned companies could in future improve their turnover, market position and increase their client support base. Finally, it could also assist in increasing brand loyalty amongst their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Fourie, Neil
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/568 , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of this research project was to evaluate the available theoretical information on Corporate Social Responsibility and with this knowledge to then also evaluate three companieś initiatives based on this information. Gone are the days when an organisation could do business for the sole purpose of making a profit. If the organisation does not take the environment into account in doing business, or if the community where this organisation is situated or does business, feel “abused” or that their needs are not being addressed, the organisation will not survive and its future sustainability can not be assured or guaranteed. This has been proven internationally, but how does South African organisations fare when it comes to corporate social responsibility, and more specifically, what social responsible initiatives are taken? The research also attempted to determine how “industry specific” the three companies'́ initiatives are and whether any changes in initiative-directions should be considered. The Social Responsibility Initiatives of Woolworths, ENGEN and SABMiller (South Africa) were evaluated and certain shortcomings were identified and presented to the various companies. These companies deliver excellent products and services to their client base, but it was felt that should adherence be given to the recommendations that were made, the mentioned companies could in future improve their turnover, market position and increase their client support base. Finally, it could also assist in increasing brand loyalty amongst their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Cross-cultural differences in IQ test performance: extension of an existing normative database on WAIS-III test performance
- Authors: Gaylard, Emma K
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa , Black people -- Education , Black people -- Social conditions , Intelligence tests -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002488 , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa , Black people -- Education , Black people -- Social conditions , Intelligence tests -- South Africa
- Description: Prior research (Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2004) presented preliminary normative data for the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – III (WAIS-III) for Southern Africa, stratified according to gender (female vs. male), language (black African vs. white English), level of education (matric/12+ years of education vs. Graduate/15+ years of education) and quality of education (disadvantaged – Department of Education and Training vs. advantaged - Private/Model C). IQ scores for black African language and white English Southern Africans were comparable with the United States of America (USA) standardization when level and quality of education were equitable. (‘White English’ is the term used to denote those of European descent whose first language is English). A limitation of the research was the lack of control for language for most of the black groups and particularly in the Private/Model C Graduate group, where sixty percent of the participants originated from Zimbabwe. These represented a particularly elite group whose education was equitable to that of the white participants throughout their education (i.e. at primary, secondary and tertiary level). In order to rectify the lack of homogeneity of language, all non- Xhosa first language participants were excluded from the black sample and sixteen additional Xhosa first language participants were tested on the WAIS-III. Data analyses found no significant differences between the original and new groups, except in the comparison between Mixed African language Private/Model C Graduates and the Xhosa first language Private/Model C Graduate/15+ years of education, where there was a lowering of WAIS-III subtest, index and IQ scores in the newly constituted group. This lowering in test performance is explained in that the new Xhosa first language 15+ years of education group was a less advantaged group than the original Mixed African Language Private/Model C Graduate group, as the new group generally had less advantaged primary school education and had generally studied less at a tertiary level. Overall, these results demonstrate an incremental increase in WAIS-III test performance for sample groups on a continuum of quality of education from least to most advantaged education. This was true for both verbal and non-verbal subtests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Gaylard, Emma K
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa , Black people -- Education , Black people -- Social conditions , Intelligence tests -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002488 , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa , Black people -- Education , Black people -- Social conditions , Intelligence tests -- South Africa
- Description: Prior research (Shuttleworth-Edwards et al., 2004) presented preliminary normative data for the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – III (WAIS-III) for Southern Africa, stratified according to gender (female vs. male), language (black African vs. white English), level of education (matric/12+ years of education vs. Graduate/15+ years of education) and quality of education (disadvantaged – Department of Education and Training vs. advantaged - Private/Model C). IQ scores for black African language and white English Southern Africans were comparable with the United States of America (USA) standardization when level and quality of education were equitable. (‘White English’ is the term used to denote those of European descent whose first language is English). A limitation of the research was the lack of control for language for most of the black groups and particularly in the Private/Model C Graduate group, where sixty percent of the participants originated from Zimbabwe. These represented a particularly elite group whose education was equitable to that of the white participants throughout their education (i.e. at primary, secondary and tertiary level). In order to rectify the lack of homogeneity of language, all non- Xhosa first language participants were excluded from the black sample and sixteen additional Xhosa first language participants were tested on the WAIS-III. Data analyses found no significant differences between the original and new groups, except in the comparison between Mixed African language Private/Model C Graduates and the Xhosa first language Private/Model C Graduate/15+ years of education, where there was a lowering of WAIS-III subtest, index and IQ scores in the newly constituted group. This lowering in test performance is explained in that the new Xhosa first language 15+ years of education group was a less advantaged group than the original Mixed African Language Private/Model C Graduate group, as the new group generally had less advantaged primary school education and had generally studied less at a tertiary level. Overall, these results demonstrate an incremental increase in WAIS-III test performance for sample groups on a continuum of quality of education from least to most advantaged education. This was true for both verbal and non-verbal subtests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Cytokine signalling functions of human soluble IgE receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal and hyper-allergic individuals and in B-lymphoblastoid and monocytic cell lines
- Authors: Askew, Sandra Lyn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/455 , Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Description: CD23 is a multifunctional receptor/ligand, found in a variety of cell types, such as human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, mast cells and basophils. It is also found on a variety of haematopoietic cell lines. As the low-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (IgE), CD23 plays a role in antigen-presentation and macrophage activation. As a surface molecule cleaved from the cell membrane, soluble CD23 (sCD23) can act as an adhesion molecule and a cytokine. Perturbances of such molecular interactions may lead to various diseases such as allergies and other inflammatory diseases. It has been speculated that elevated levels of sCD23 may be used to bind secreted IgE, thus preventing it from binding to membrane CD23 on haematopoietic cells, preventing B cells from being activated into IgE producing cells. Signal transduction by sCD23 is dependent on cell subsets, ligands and co-factors required for its function. sCD23 plays a direct role in inducing tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and soluble IL-1 receptor from activated human monocytes and PBMCs in vitro. Recombinant forms of 25 and 37 kDa human sCD23 were produced by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-cloning into pET23a, a bacterial expression vector. The proteins were expressed and refolded, followed by purification by gel filtration chromatography. The purified proteins were biochemically characterized to ensure purity and biological activity, by observing the binding to human IgE both in enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. ELISA showed KD values of 7.23 x 10-9M and 8.12 x 10-9M for the 25 and 37 kDa proteins, respectively. These values were significantly lower than that of Hibbert et al., (2005). SPR data obtained for the 25 kDa CD23 was not of reliable quality but SPR for the 33kDa sCD23 showed a KD of 1.18 x 10-7M, close to that of Hibbert et al., (2005), J. Exp. Med, 202: 751-760. To test the therapeutic potential of the recombinant molecule, a B-lymphoblastoid cell line (Raji), a pre-monocytic cell line (U937), and PBMCs from normal and hyper-allergic individuals were used. All cells showed no change in production of cytokines. It is essential to investigate further cytokine functions and production implicated by recombinant forms of sCD23, as well as binding of sCD23 to CD21 and CD11b/c, and in vivo IgE regulation before a conclusion can be drawn as to whether recombinant sCD23 is a potential therapeutic target against allergic disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Askew, Sandra Lyn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/455 , Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Description: CD23 is a multifunctional receptor/ligand, found in a variety of cell types, such as human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, mast cells and basophils. It is also found on a variety of haematopoietic cell lines. As the low-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (IgE), CD23 plays a role in antigen-presentation and macrophage activation. As a surface molecule cleaved from the cell membrane, soluble CD23 (sCD23) can act as an adhesion molecule and a cytokine. Perturbances of such molecular interactions may lead to various diseases such as allergies and other inflammatory diseases. It has been speculated that elevated levels of sCD23 may be used to bind secreted IgE, thus preventing it from binding to membrane CD23 on haematopoietic cells, preventing B cells from being activated into IgE producing cells. Signal transduction by sCD23 is dependent on cell subsets, ligands and co-factors required for its function. sCD23 plays a direct role in inducing tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and soluble IL-1 receptor from activated human monocytes and PBMCs in vitro. Recombinant forms of 25 and 37 kDa human sCD23 were produced by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-cloning into pET23a, a bacterial expression vector. The proteins were expressed and refolded, followed by purification by gel filtration chromatography. The purified proteins were biochemically characterized to ensure purity and biological activity, by observing the binding to human IgE both in enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. ELISA showed KD values of 7.23 x 10-9M and 8.12 x 10-9M for the 25 and 37 kDa proteins, respectively. These values were significantly lower than that of Hibbert et al., (2005). SPR data obtained for the 25 kDa CD23 was not of reliable quality but SPR for the 33kDa sCD23 showed a KD of 1.18 x 10-7M, close to that of Hibbert et al., (2005), J. Exp. Med, 202: 751-760. To test the therapeutic potential of the recombinant molecule, a B-lymphoblastoid cell line (Raji), a pre-monocytic cell line (U937), and PBMCs from normal and hyper-allergic individuals were used. All cells showed no change in production of cytokines. It is essential to investigate further cytokine functions and production implicated by recombinant forms of sCD23, as well as binding of sCD23 to CD21 and CD11b/c, and in vivo IgE regulation before a conclusion can be drawn as to whether recombinant sCD23 is a potential therapeutic target against allergic disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Decorating Asterisk : experiments in service creation for a multi-protocol telephony environment using open source tools
- Authors: Hitchcock, Jonathan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Asterisk (Computer file) , Internet telephony
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4635 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006539 , Asterisk (Computer file) , Internet telephony
- Description: As Voice over IP becomes more prevalent, value-adds to the service will become ubiquitous. Voice over IP (VoIP) is no longer a single service application, but an array of marketable services of increasing depth, which are moving into the non-desktop market. In addition, as the range of devices being generally used increases, it will become necessary for all services, including VoIP services, to be accessible from multiple platforms and through varied interfaces. With the recent introduction and growth of the open source software PBX system named Asterisk, the possibility of achieving these goals has become more concrete. In addition to Asterisk, a number of open source systems are being developed which facilitate the development of systems that interoperate over a wide variety of platforms and through multiple interfaces. This thesis investigates Asterisk in terms of its viability to provide the depth of services that will be required in a VoIP environment, as well as a number of other open source systems in terms of what they can offer such a system. In addition, it investigates whether these services can be made available on different devices. Using various systems built as a proof-of-concept, this thesis shows that Asterisk, in conjunction with various other open source projects, such as the Twisted framework provides a concrete tool which can be used to realise flexible and protocol independent telephony solutions for a small to medium enterprise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Hitchcock, Jonathan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Asterisk (Computer file) , Internet telephony
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4635 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006539 , Asterisk (Computer file) , Internet telephony
- Description: As Voice over IP becomes more prevalent, value-adds to the service will become ubiquitous. Voice over IP (VoIP) is no longer a single service application, but an array of marketable services of increasing depth, which are moving into the non-desktop market. In addition, as the range of devices being generally used increases, it will become necessary for all services, including VoIP services, to be accessible from multiple platforms and through varied interfaces. With the recent introduction and growth of the open source software PBX system named Asterisk, the possibility of achieving these goals has become more concrete. In addition to Asterisk, a number of open source systems are being developed which facilitate the development of systems that interoperate over a wide variety of platforms and through multiple interfaces. This thesis investigates Asterisk in terms of its viability to provide the depth of services that will be required in a VoIP environment, as well as a number of other open source systems in terms of what they can offer such a system. In addition, it investigates whether these services can be made available on different devices. Using various systems built as a proof-of-concept, this thesis shows that Asterisk, in conjunction with various other open source projects, such as the Twisted framework provides a concrete tool which can be used to realise flexible and protocol independent telephony solutions for a small to medium enterprise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Democracy in Lesotho: theory and practice of opposition
- Authors: Mohapi, Refiloe Alphonce
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Democracy -- Lesotho , Political parties -- Lesotho , Lesotho -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003016 , Democracy -- Lesotho , Political parties -- Lesotho , Lesotho -- Politics and government
- Description: Using theoretical insights from elsewhere, this thesis examines and explains Lesotho’s opposition. It argues that the decline of single-member constituency and the rise of Mixed Member Proportionality (MMP) has weakened the prospects for a strong opposition in Lesotho; more parties in parliament have strengthened the hold of the ruling party. These parties cannot overturn the parliamentary decisions of the ruling Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD), which continues to win more than 90% of majority seats in successive elections. So, most bills and motions passed in parliament have support of the majority of the MPs of LCD. Opposition parties have little legislative impact in challenging the policies of government. Paradoxically, MPs of the LCD are often the only source of opposition in the country’s parliament.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Mohapi, Refiloe Alphonce
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Democracy -- Lesotho , Political parties -- Lesotho , Lesotho -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003016 , Democracy -- Lesotho , Political parties -- Lesotho , Lesotho -- Politics and government
- Description: Using theoretical insights from elsewhere, this thesis examines and explains Lesotho’s opposition. It argues that the decline of single-member constituency and the rise of Mixed Member Proportionality (MMP) has weakened the prospects for a strong opposition in Lesotho; more parties in parliament have strengthened the hold of the ruling party. These parties cannot overturn the parliamentary decisions of the ruling Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD), which continues to win more than 90% of majority seats in successive elections. So, most bills and motions passed in parliament have support of the majority of the MPs of LCD. Opposition parties have little legislative impact in challenging the policies of government. Paradoxically, MPs of the LCD are often the only source of opposition in the country’s parliament.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Designing a lean manufacturing model for Johnson Controls SA
- Authors: Andersson, Carl
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/188 , Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Description: An increase in global competitiveness has forced manufacturing organisations to re – look at their facility from an output and quality standpoint. Leveraging a manufacturing operation into a competitive advantage must at all times support the organisation’s objectives. It is therefore vital that the operation reviews its strategy so that it fulfils the everchanging needs of its market. The main objective of this research was to identify possible approaches that Johnson Controls South Africa (JCI SA) could pursue when implementing a Lean Manufacturing model. In doing this it will improve JCI SA’s manufacturing efficiency and quality, thus giving the organisation a competitive edge over its opposition. The research presented an empirical study of how a Lean Manufacturing model should be implemented in JCI SA. A theoretical and empirical study was conducted on how to successfully implement Lean Manufacturing within an organisation. The main purpose was to establish a theoretical Lean Manufacturing model that the organisation can utilise as a strategic plan to become the global leader in its market place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Andersson, Carl
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/188 , Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Description: An increase in global competitiveness has forced manufacturing organisations to re – look at their facility from an output and quality standpoint. Leveraging a manufacturing operation into a competitive advantage must at all times support the organisation’s objectives. It is therefore vital that the operation reviews its strategy so that it fulfils the everchanging needs of its market. The main objective of this research was to identify possible approaches that Johnson Controls South Africa (JCI SA) could pursue when implementing a Lean Manufacturing model. In doing this it will improve JCI SA’s manufacturing efficiency and quality, thus giving the organisation a competitive edge over its opposition. The research presented an empirical study of how a Lean Manufacturing model should be implemented in JCI SA. A theoretical and empirical study was conducted on how to successfully implement Lean Manufacturing within an organisation. The main purpose was to establish a theoretical Lean Manufacturing model that the organisation can utilise as a strategic plan to become the global leader in its market place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Designing for maintenance
- Authors: Syce, Melvin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011924 , Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise is a study of the methodology and the thought processes followed when buildings are designed, in order to determine to what extent, if any, designers consider the need for buildings to be maintained long after they walk off site and part with the project. The concept of taking future maintenance requirements into account as part of the design process is referred to as “designing for maintenance” (DFM). It can be assumed that, from a professional perspective, designers must keep the client’s needs in mind when designing. Facilities managers face the challenge of balancing a budget with maintaining a functional building – a dream building would be a maintenance-free building. Armed with the knowledge of DFM it is hoped that future buildings will be designed in a manner that will facilitate maintenance, thereby achieving significant savings on the life cycle costing of buildings. Buys (2004) suggests that designers should adopt a more open-minded approach toward maintenance during the design stages of buildings. Maintenance, with reference to access, methods, material and funding, could benefit from this approach, with a positive effect on the life cycle costing of a building. In order of priority when starting a building project, the design process is at the top of the list. Because this process happens right at the outset of a project, it is important to address the level of maintenance awareness that goes into designing, at this stage. The research concludes that one of the methods which could have a permanent effect on designers’ awareness of DFM would be to include it in the subjects taught at schools where designers are trained. This idea was discussed with a number of lecturers in this field and they were all in favour of this approach. There is a perception that built environment practitioners and professionals such as architects and contractors in the various fields related to the built environment, often engage in their particular task as if they exist in isolation from the project as a whole and from the rest of the project team. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that all built environment aspects are interwoven and interlinked, and that all are part of a larger context. With reference to the built environment as a whole, no action or element exists in isolation from a larger web of activity. The challenge, to nurture within students an awareness of the range and interconnectedness of elements and processes that contribute to the holistic idea, rests with the educators in the design fields, because it is clear that the final impact of any project relies to a large extent on what was specified by the designers in terms of materials and construction methods. The impact of the world’s six billion inhabitants on the environment is clearly a critical issue but does little to influence the actions of most design professionals. Documented experiences should serve as valuable tools to guide designers towards making more educated decisions on building design. Built environment professionals should educate themselves about the range of issues involved in the analysis, design and production of the built environment and the interaction between these factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Syce, Melvin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011924 , Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise is a study of the methodology and the thought processes followed when buildings are designed, in order to determine to what extent, if any, designers consider the need for buildings to be maintained long after they walk off site and part with the project. The concept of taking future maintenance requirements into account as part of the design process is referred to as “designing for maintenance” (DFM). It can be assumed that, from a professional perspective, designers must keep the client’s needs in mind when designing. Facilities managers face the challenge of balancing a budget with maintaining a functional building – a dream building would be a maintenance-free building. Armed with the knowledge of DFM it is hoped that future buildings will be designed in a manner that will facilitate maintenance, thereby achieving significant savings on the life cycle costing of buildings. Buys (2004) suggests that designers should adopt a more open-minded approach toward maintenance during the design stages of buildings. Maintenance, with reference to access, methods, material and funding, could benefit from this approach, with a positive effect on the life cycle costing of a building. In order of priority when starting a building project, the design process is at the top of the list. Because this process happens right at the outset of a project, it is important to address the level of maintenance awareness that goes into designing, at this stage. The research concludes that one of the methods which could have a permanent effect on designers’ awareness of DFM would be to include it in the subjects taught at schools where designers are trained. This idea was discussed with a number of lecturers in this field and they were all in favour of this approach. There is a perception that built environment practitioners and professionals such as architects and contractors in the various fields related to the built environment, often engage in their particular task as if they exist in isolation from the project as a whole and from the rest of the project team. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that all built environment aspects are interwoven and interlinked, and that all are part of a larger context. With reference to the built environment as a whole, no action or element exists in isolation from a larger web of activity. The challenge, to nurture within students an awareness of the range and interconnectedness of elements and processes that contribute to the holistic idea, rests with the educators in the design fields, because it is clear that the final impact of any project relies to a large extent on what was specified by the designers in terms of materials and construction methods. The impact of the world’s six billion inhabitants on the environment is clearly a critical issue but does little to influence the actions of most design professionals. Documented experiences should serve as valuable tools to guide designers towards making more educated decisions on building design. Built environment professionals should educate themselves about the range of issues involved in the analysis, design and production of the built environment and the interaction between these factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006