Die liturgiese gebruik van die orrel in 'n post-mordene era: persepsies van kerkmusici en leraars van die Nederduitse Gereformeerde gemeentes in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Heunis, Sulani
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Organ music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Chorale preludes
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8511 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/787 , Organ music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Chorale preludes
- Description: In this study the liturgical usage of the organ is investigated within a post-modern society. It focuses specifically on the church services of the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth with regards to the functionality of the organ during morning and evening services. The objectives of the study are to demonstrate the current situation of musical worship in the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth. Furthermore it serves as a way to indicate any deficiency in the field, which would need to be addressed. In order to achieve these objectives, both a qualitative and quantitative study is undertaken. The qualitative study investigates existing literature regarding the church service and its music. The quantitative study comprises an analysis of self-administered questionnaires that was handed over for completion by the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth. The results obtained were electronically processed to percentages and graphic illustrations. In this mini-treatise it is argued that the usage of other music instruments (in the form of music worship groups) during church services could possibly lead to a change in the liturgical function of the organ. It was found that the usage of the organ in the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth was mainly retained during morning services. During evening services however, the usage of other music instruments was in the majority, which resulted in a decrease of organ usage. It was further discovered that a large group of organists are not involved with music worship groups. Training of organists in a contemporary style of music worship will therefore serve as a significant purpose to fulfil this deficiency.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Heunis, Sulani
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Organ music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Chorale preludes
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8511 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/787 , Organ music -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Chorale preludes
- Description: In this study the liturgical usage of the organ is investigated within a post-modern society. It focuses specifically on the church services of the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth with regards to the functionality of the organ during morning and evening services. The objectives of the study are to demonstrate the current situation of musical worship in the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth. Furthermore it serves as a way to indicate any deficiency in the field, which would need to be addressed. In order to achieve these objectives, both a qualitative and quantitative study is undertaken. The qualitative study investigates existing literature regarding the church service and its music. The quantitative study comprises an analysis of self-administered questionnaires that was handed over for completion by the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth. The results obtained were electronically processed to percentages and graphic illustrations. In this mini-treatise it is argued that the usage of other music instruments (in the form of music worship groups) during church services could possibly lead to a change in the liturgical function of the organ. It was found that the usage of the organ in the Dutch Reformed Congregations of Port Elizabeth was mainly retained during morning services. During evening services however, the usage of other music instruments was in the majority, which resulted in a decrease of organ usage. It was further discovered that a large group of organists are not involved with music worship groups. Training of organists in a contemporary style of music worship will therefore serve as a significant purpose to fulfil this deficiency.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Education in the wetlands and wetlands in the education: a case of contextualizing primary/basic education in Tanzania
- Authors: Hogan, Alice Rosemary
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Tanzania Environmental education -- Tanzania Education, Rural -- Tanzania Education -- Curricula -- Tanzania Community and school -- Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1504 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003386
- Description: This dissertation describes an action research case study carried out at a sub-village school at Nyamakurukuru, Utete, Rufiji District, Tanzania. The study was a fully independent research activity funded and led by a female Irish environmental and community specialist who has fifteen years experience of working in rural Tanzania, five of which were in Rufiji District. The aim of the action research was to engage a community of villagers, teachers, students and district officers in a participatory process to adapt a module of a school curriculum to the local context, and teach it in order to describe one way in which contextualization, using local and indigenous knowledge and active discovery teaching-learning processes, can be done. The major research question, which I wished to answer for one specific case, was: Does integrating local environmental cultural knowledge into formal schooling contribute to curriculum relevance? If so, in what way? This document describes the background and context of the research, the motivation and the theoretical basis for the work, the methodology and methods, and the action research process itself. The results are interpreted and discussed in the light of current theoretical perspectives on education and environmental education. The main findings within the case are that: Contextualization improved relevance of education and thus its quality by: • breaking through traditional frames/barriers between teachers and students, students and elders and community and teachers, • allowing formal education to take place outside of the school, • necessitating a change in pedagogy1 to more learner-centered, discovery methods, • allowing indigenous knowledge to come into the classroom, • stimulating creativity and increased confidence, and • bringing local socio-political environmental issues into the classroom. This study provides a case example of how education processes, when engaging local cultural knowledge, can improve the relevance, and thus an aspect of the quality of teaching and learning in school-community contexts, while providing a conduit for integrating environmental education into the formal school curriculum. It provides insights into the key issue of relevance which currently faces educators of children in wetlands in Tanzania. Recommendations were made for the case studied and may be useful beyond the boundaries of the case: • Give more explicit government policy and strategic support for community involvement in educational content–epistemologies and pedagogies. • Weaken framing (hierarchical power positions) to encourage greater partnership between school, home and community to improve relevance. • Investigate the provision of education beyond schools. • Provide practical teacher and community training on use of learner-centered, discovery and active pedagogies. • Provide teacher and community education on biodiversity and the environment. • Provide relevant reference texts and research data on the ecology, biodiversity, vegetation, hydrology, agriculture, sociology, history and other relevant subjects. • Officially nurture a culture that learning should be enjoyable. • Allow the curriculum freedom, in these times of increasing risk for rural tropical wetland communities, to make the curriculum fit the local issues rather than vice versa. • Nurture critical analysis of the curriculum in local pedagogic discourse i.e., at the local contextualization level of the home, community and school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hogan, Alice Rosemary
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Tanzania Environmental education -- Tanzania Education, Rural -- Tanzania Education -- Curricula -- Tanzania Community and school -- Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1504 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003386
- Description: This dissertation describes an action research case study carried out at a sub-village school at Nyamakurukuru, Utete, Rufiji District, Tanzania. The study was a fully independent research activity funded and led by a female Irish environmental and community specialist who has fifteen years experience of working in rural Tanzania, five of which were in Rufiji District. The aim of the action research was to engage a community of villagers, teachers, students and district officers in a participatory process to adapt a module of a school curriculum to the local context, and teach it in order to describe one way in which contextualization, using local and indigenous knowledge and active discovery teaching-learning processes, can be done. The major research question, which I wished to answer for one specific case, was: Does integrating local environmental cultural knowledge into formal schooling contribute to curriculum relevance? If so, in what way? This document describes the background and context of the research, the motivation and the theoretical basis for the work, the methodology and methods, and the action research process itself. The results are interpreted and discussed in the light of current theoretical perspectives on education and environmental education. The main findings within the case are that: Contextualization improved relevance of education and thus its quality by: • breaking through traditional frames/barriers between teachers and students, students and elders and community and teachers, • allowing formal education to take place outside of the school, • necessitating a change in pedagogy1 to more learner-centered, discovery methods, • allowing indigenous knowledge to come into the classroom, • stimulating creativity and increased confidence, and • bringing local socio-political environmental issues into the classroom. This study provides a case example of how education processes, when engaging local cultural knowledge, can improve the relevance, and thus an aspect of the quality of teaching and learning in school-community contexts, while providing a conduit for integrating environmental education into the formal school curriculum. It provides insights into the key issue of relevance which currently faces educators of children in wetlands in Tanzania. Recommendations were made for the case studied and may be useful beyond the boundaries of the case: • Give more explicit government policy and strategic support for community involvement in educational content–epistemologies and pedagogies. • Weaken framing (hierarchical power positions) to encourage greater partnership between school, home and community to improve relevance. • Investigate the provision of education beyond schools. • Provide practical teacher and community training on use of learner-centered, discovery and active pedagogies. • Provide teacher and community education on biodiversity and the environment. • Provide relevant reference texts and research data on the ecology, biodiversity, vegetation, hydrology, agriculture, sociology, history and other relevant subjects. • Officially nurture a culture that learning should be enjoyable. • Allow the curriculum freedom, in these times of increasing risk for rural tropical wetland communities, to make the curriculum fit the local issues rather than vice versa. • Nurture critical analysis of the curriculum in local pedagogic discourse i.e., at the local contextualization level of the home, community and school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Her master's: the experiences of mature women in postgraduate study
- Authors: Hood, Mary Ann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Women graduate students -- South Africa , Women scholars -- South Africa , Women -- Education (Graduate)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/211 , Women graduate students -- South Africa , Women scholars -- South Africa , Women -- Education (Graduate)
- Description: This study explored the experiences of mature women undertaking Master’s degrees at a Historically Disadvantaged Institution of Higher Learning in South Africa. Attaining a Master’s degree is a significant milestone in education and the process may take from one to three, or more, years. The study aims to describe aspects of the women’s experiences of their research journeys and the goal of the study is to present descriptions of these experiences. The methodology is qualitative and uses a critical feminist approach, appropriate to exploring the research questions. A critical feminist stance holds that women experience the world differently to men given the patriarchal structure of society. Emphasis is placed on the primacy of the co-researcher’s perceptions of their experiences. A single method research design was followed using semi-structured interviews. The analysis resulted in the emergence of a number of central themes. Together these reflect the experiences of the co-researchers, although they did not automatically share all the experiences. The findings show that postgraduate study, in the form of a Master’s degree, was found to be transformative, meaningful and worthwhile, although not without difficulties; mainly the demands required of multiple roles within home, community, work, and the university. This study contributes towards the larger body of research within education, in particular in the understanding the experiences of mature women within the field of postgraduate study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hood, Mary Ann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Women graduate students -- South Africa , Women scholars -- South Africa , Women -- Education (Graduate)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16159 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/211 , Women graduate students -- South Africa , Women scholars -- South Africa , Women -- Education (Graduate)
- Description: This study explored the experiences of mature women undertaking Master’s degrees at a Historically Disadvantaged Institution of Higher Learning in South Africa. Attaining a Master’s degree is a significant milestone in education and the process may take from one to three, or more, years. The study aims to describe aspects of the women’s experiences of their research journeys and the goal of the study is to present descriptions of these experiences. The methodology is qualitative and uses a critical feminist approach, appropriate to exploring the research questions. A critical feminist stance holds that women experience the world differently to men given the patriarchal structure of society. Emphasis is placed on the primacy of the co-researcher’s perceptions of their experiences. A single method research design was followed using semi-structured interviews. The analysis resulted in the emergence of a number of central themes. Together these reflect the experiences of the co-researchers, although they did not automatically share all the experiences. The findings show that postgraduate study, in the form of a Master’s degree, was found to be transformative, meaningful and worthwhile, although not without difficulties; mainly the demands required of multiple roles within home, community, work, and the university. This study contributes towards the larger body of research within education, in particular in the understanding the experiences of mature women within the field of postgraduate study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Learning organisations: an exploration of the extent to which early childhood development non-government organisations (NGOS) in the Eastern Cape Province are learning organisations
- Authors: Hornby, Diana Scot
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Early childhood education , Child development , Child psychology , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Community Development)
- Identifier: vital:11843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/242 , Early childhood education , Child development , Child psychology , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The first decade of democracy marks a massive transition in the life of South African children. The South African Constitution is perhaps the most assertive affirmation of the rights of children any where in the world. The new Government has highlighted the plight of young children by publishing the first white paper for children under the age of 6 years: Education White Paper (5) on Early Childhood Development (RSA, 2001) as well as other policies to guide an integrated developmental approach to early childhood services. Despite progress, according to Porteus (in Chisholm 2004), the gains have not been strong enough to work against the momentum of inequity facing the nation’s young. Non Government Organisations have played a key role over the past thirty years to establish services that address the developmental needs of disadvantaged young children under the age of 6 years. Their challenge now, is to respond to the changes in a transforming state and provide services that are relevant and appropriate. There has been a ‘realignment’ occurring in the ECD sector where activities have shifted beyond the formal classroom possibilities to pro-child social development. This adjustment is making huge demands on the ECD sector as they grapple with the paradigm shift. The Learning Organisation is a strategy that allows organisations to re-invent themselves and remain relevant. The focus of this study examines five ECD NGO’s in the Eastern Cape Province, to assess the extent to which they meet the characteristics that make a learning organisation, in the current democratic context of South Africa. The research was qualitative in nature and utilizing the case study method and through semi-structured interview schedules and document analysis, the researcher was able to gain insight into the Organisations. The Directors in five organisations formed the core of the research sample. The research findings suggest that although the Directors are grappling with the paradigm shift to an integrated, pro-child social development approach, the human resources within organisations are not being fully mobilised, enhanced and tapped. Practicing a Learning Organisation strategy would assist the ECD NGO’s to re-invent themselves, but the research findings suggest that these characteristics remain under-utilized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hornby, Diana Scot
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Early childhood education , Child development , Child psychology , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Community Development)
- Identifier: vital:11843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/242 , Early childhood education , Child development , Child psychology , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The first decade of democracy marks a massive transition in the life of South African children. The South African Constitution is perhaps the most assertive affirmation of the rights of children any where in the world. The new Government has highlighted the plight of young children by publishing the first white paper for children under the age of 6 years: Education White Paper (5) on Early Childhood Development (RSA, 2001) as well as other policies to guide an integrated developmental approach to early childhood services. Despite progress, according to Porteus (in Chisholm 2004), the gains have not been strong enough to work against the momentum of inequity facing the nation’s young. Non Government Organisations have played a key role over the past thirty years to establish services that address the developmental needs of disadvantaged young children under the age of 6 years. Their challenge now, is to respond to the changes in a transforming state and provide services that are relevant and appropriate. There has been a ‘realignment’ occurring in the ECD sector where activities have shifted beyond the formal classroom possibilities to pro-child social development. This adjustment is making huge demands on the ECD sector as they grapple with the paradigm shift. The Learning Organisation is a strategy that allows organisations to re-invent themselves and remain relevant. The focus of this study examines five ECD NGO’s in the Eastern Cape Province, to assess the extent to which they meet the characteristics that make a learning organisation, in the current democratic context of South Africa. The research was qualitative in nature and utilizing the case study method and through semi-structured interview schedules and document analysis, the researcher was able to gain insight into the Organisations. The Directors in five organisations formed the core of the research sample. The research findings suggest that although the Directors are grappling with the paradigm shift to an integrated, pro-child social development approach, the human resources within organisations are not being fully mobilised, enhanced and tapped. Practicing a Learning Organisation strategy would assist the ECD NGO’s to re-invent themselves, but the research findings suggest that these characteristics remain under-utilized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Microfinance sustainability versus development objectives: an assessment of the South African environment
- Authors: Hoskinson, Brenda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poor -- Finance, Personal Microfinance -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002992
- Description: In a world where almost half of the population lives in poverty, the alleviation of poverty is a serious developmental challenge for many states. Microfinance has grown in popularity as a means for achieving poverty reduction all over the world. Due to the success of microfinance institutions, such as the Grameen Bank, in achieving self-sufficiency and improving the lives of its clients, the expectations for similar institutions are high. MFIs attempt to find a balance between business and development goals. It is not necessarily a contradiction to be a business seeking profit as well as being an institution committed to development. However, the values coupled with these two objectives are sometimes conflicting. Thus it is important to see how equilibrium can be achieved and to note what sacrifices must be made in order to reach a balance. This thesis will focus on examining and assessing the challenges faced by South African MFIs in balancing development goals while at the same time having to be self-sufficient. The Small Enterprise Foundation will be used as a case study to consider the particular experiences of a South African MFI. The evaluation of the unique challenges that the South African landscape presents will provide a context in which to understand microfinance operations and a clearer understanding of the particular problems and challenges faced by the South African micro-finance industry in balancing the achievement of development goals against the imperative to be self sustainable in providing services to the poor. Through that understanding the common conception of what makes a “successful” MFI will also be challenged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hoskinson, Brenda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poor -- Finance, Personal Microfinance -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002992
- Description: In a world where almost half of the population lives in poverty, the alleviation of poverty is a serious developmental challenge for many states. Microfinance has grown in popularity as a means for achieving poverty reduction all over the world. Due to the success of microfinance institutions, such as the Grameen Bank, in achieving self-sufficiency and improving the lives of its clients, the expectations for similar institutions are high. MFIs attempt to find a balance between business and development goals. It is not necessarily a contradiction to be a business seeking profit as well as being an institution committed to development. However, the values coupled with these two objectives are sometimes conflicting. Thus it is important to see how equilibrium can be achieved and to note what sacrifices must be made in order to reach a balance. This thesis will focus on examining and assessing the challenges faced by South African MFIs in balancing development goals while at the same time having to be self-sufficient. The Small Enterprise Foundation will be used as a case study to consider the particular experiences of a South African MFI. The evaluation of the unique challenges that the South African landscape presents will provide a context in which to understand microfinance operations and a clearer understanding of the particular problems and challenges faced by the South African micro-finance industry in balancing the achievement of development goals against the imperative to be self sustainable in providing services to the poor. Through that understanding the common conception of what makes a “successful” MFI will also be challenged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
The perceptions of Chinese tourists of the Western Cape Region travel destination
- Authors: Hu, Jiang
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Chinese -- Travel -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Attitudes , Tourism -- South Africa -- Marketing , Tourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9365 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/967 , Chinese -- Travel -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Attitudes , Tourism -- South Africa -- Marketing , Tourism -- South Africa
- Description: As a result of significantly improving relationship between South Africa and China, Chinese tourists traveling to South Africa have become a more noticeable group of travelers. More and more Chinese tourists choose South Africa as a tourism destination; especially Cape Town in the Western Cape region for a variety purposes such as relaxation, business and/or shopping. This research investigates the perceptions and motivation of Chinese tourists coming to the Western Cape region of South Africa. The proposed strategy of promoting the Western Cape region as a travel destination can be made based on the perceptions and motivation of Chinese tourists to the Western Cape. The study focuses on clearly understanding the perception of Chinese tourists by studying tourist behaviour and consumer motivation. The process of decision making and factors impacting on decision making are addressed in the research. A survey questionnaire was administered to Chinese tourists visiting South Africa. The primary data received by questionnaire was analyzed to show what actually Chinese tourists consider Western Cape as a travel destination. The Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) was utilized for analysis of data collected by the questionnaire. These general groups of data are discussed in the research. There are personal information, the motivation for travelling, and perceptions of respondents in the Western Cape region in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hu, Jiang
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Chinese -- Travel -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Attitudes , Tourism -- South Africa -- Marketing , Tourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9365 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/967 , Chinese -- Travel -- South Africa -- Western Cape -- Attitudes , Tourism -- South Africa -- Marketing , Tourism -- South Africa
- Description: As a result of significantly improving relationship between South Africa and China, Chinese tourists traveling to South Africa have become a more noticeable group of travelers. More and more Chinese tourists choose South Africa as a tourism destination; especially Cape Town in the Western Cape region for a variety purposes such as relaxation, business and/or shopping. This research investigates the perceptions and motivation of Chinese tourists coming to the Western Cape region of South Africa. The proposed strategy of promoting the Western Cape region as a travel destination can be made based on the perceptions and motivation of Chinese tourists to the Western Cape. The study focuses on clearly understanding the perception of Chinese tourists by studying tourist behaviour and consumer motivation. The process of decision making and factors impacting on decision making are addressed in the research. A survey questionnaire was administered to Chinese tourists visiting South Africa. The primary data received by questionnaire was analyzed to show what actually Chinese tourists consider Western Cape as a travel destination. The Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) was utilized for analysis of data collected by the questionnaire. These general groups of data are discussed in the research. There are personal information, the motivation for travelling, and perceptions of respondents in the Western Cape region in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and soil microbial populations in the rhizosphere
- Authors: Ike-Izundu, Nnenna Esther
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mycorrhizas , Mycorrhizal fungi , Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizas , Soil microbiology , Rhizosphere , Revegetation , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3962 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004021 , Mycorrhizas , Mycorrhizal fungi , Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizas , Soil microbiology , Rhizosphere , Revegetation , Restoration ecology
- Description: This study examined the rehabilitation potential of AM fungi with organic and inorganic fertilisers under pot and field trial conditions as well as their interaction with rhizospheric organisms and specific functional groups. In addition, the study highlighted the effects of land-use management on AM fungal populations in soil and the mycorrhizal status of some selected plants from one of the study sites. The study focussed on two sites that differ in operational activities and these included a mined area that was to be rehabilitated and a commercial farming site. A pot trial was conducted using an overburdened soil resulting from kaolin clay mining. Pots were seeded with Cynodon dactylon and treated with either Organic Tea or NPK (3:1:5) fertiliser, with or without AM fungal inoculum. The compatibility of these fertilisers with AM fungi was assessed by plant growth and percentage root colonisation. Maximum shoot height and plant biomass were observed at the 28th week with NPK (3:1:5) fertiliser supporting mycorrhizal colonisation by 80%. The result indicated the potential of AM fungi to be used in rehabilitation with minimal phosphate fertiliser. Similarly, a field trial was set-up using 17 x 17 m[superscript 2] plots in the mining site that were treated with the same organic and inorganic fertilisers as well as with AM fungal inoculum in different combinations. The interaction between AM fungi and soil microbial population was determined using culture dependent and culture independent techniques. The culture dependent technique involved the use of soil dilution and plating on general purpose and selective media. The result showed that there was no change in the total culturable bacterial number in the untreated and AM fungal treated plots, while a change in species composition was observed in the functional groups. Different functional groups identified included nitrogen fixing bacteria, pseudomonads, actinomycetes, phosphate solubilisers and the fungal counterparts. Gram-positive bacteria were observed as the predominant phenotypic type, while nitrogen fixers and actinomycetes were the predominant functional groups. Species identified from each functional group were Pseudomonas fulva, Bacillus megaterium, Streptomyces and actinomycetales bacteria. Meanwhile, fungi such as Ampelomyces, Fusarium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium and Exserohilium were identified morphologically and molecularly. Furthermore, the mining site had a significantly higher bacterial number than the farming site thereby indicating the effects of land-use management on culturable bacterial numbers. The culture independent technique was carried out by cloning of the bacterial 16S rDNA and sequencing. Identified clones were Bradyrhizobium, Propionibacterium and Sporichthya. A cladogram constructed with the nucleotides sequences of identified functional species, clones and closely related nucleotide sequences from the Genbank indicated that nucleotide sequences differed in terms of the method used. The activity and establishment of the introduced AM fungal population was determined by spore enumeration, infectivity assay, percentage root colonisation and assessment of glomalin concentrations. The results indicated that the two land use types affected AM fungal populations. However, the establishment of AM fungi in the farming site was more successful than in the mining site as indicated by the higher infectivity pontential. Selected host plants, which were collected around the mine area, were observed to be mainly colonised by AM fungi and these were identified as Pentzia incana, Elytropappus rhinocerotis, Euphorbia meloformis, Selago corymbosa, Albuca canadensis and Helichrysum rosum. These plant species were able to thrive under harsh environmental conditions, thereby indicating their potential use as rehabilitation host plants. Generally, the findings of this study has provided an insight into the interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and other soil microorganisms in two fields with differing land use management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Ike-Izundu, Nnenna Esther
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mycorrhizas , Mycorrhizal fungi , Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizas , Soil microbiology , Rhizosphere , Revegetation , Restoration ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3962 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004021 , Mycorrhizas , Mycorrhizal fungi , Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizas , Soil microbiology , Rhizosphere , Revegetation , Restoration ecology
- Description: This study examined the rehabilitation potential of AM fungi with organic and inorganic fertilisers under pot and field trial conditions as well as their interaction with rhizospheric organisms and specific functional groups. In addition, the study highlighted the effects of land-use management on AM fungal populations in soil and the mycorrhizal status of some selected plants from one of the study sites. The study focussed on two sites that differ in operational activities and these included a mined area that was to be rehabilitated and a commercial farming site. A pot trial was conducted using an overburdened soil resulting from kaolin clay mining. Pots were seeded with Cynodon dactylon and treated with either Organic Tea or NPK (3:1:5) fertiliser, with or without AM fungal inoculum. The compatibility of these fertilisers with AM fungi was assessed by plant growth and percentage root colonisation. Maximum shoot height and plant biomass were observed at the 28th week with NPK (3:1:5) fertiliser supporting mycorrhizal colonisation by 80%. The result indicated the potential of AM fungi to be used in rehabilitation with minimal phosphate fertiliser. Similarly, a field trial was set-up using 17 x 17 m[superscript 2] plots in the mining site that were treated with the same organic and inorganic fertilisers as well as with AM fungal inoculum in different combinations. The interaction between AM fungi and soil microbial population was determined using culture dependent and culture independent techniques. The culture dependent technique involved the use of soil dilution and plating on general purpose and selective media. The result showed that there was no change in the total culturable bacterial number in the untreated and AM fungal treated plots, while a change in species composition was observed in the functional groups. Different functional groups identified included nitrogen fixing bacteria, pseudomonads, actinomycetes, phosphate solubilisers and the fungal counterparts. Gram-positive bacteria were observed as the predominant phenotypic type, while nitrogen fixers and actinomycetes were the predominant functional groups. Species identified from each functional group were Pseudomonas fulva, Bacillus megaterium, Streptomyces and actinomycetales bacteria. Meanwhile, fungi such as Ampelomyces, Fusarium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium and Exserohilium were identified morphologically and molecularly. Furthermore, the mining site had a significantly higher bacterial number than the farming site thereby indicating the effects of land-use management on culturable bacterial numbers. The culture independent technique was carried out by cloning of the bacterial 16S rDNA and sequencing. Identified clones were Bradyrhizobium, Propionibacterium and Sporichthya. A cladogram constructed with the nucleotides sequences of identified functional species, clones and closely related nucleotide sequences from the Genbank indicated that nucleotide sequences differed in terms of the method used. The activity and establishment of the introduced AM fungal population was determined by spore enumeration, infectivity assay, percentage root colonisation and assessment of glomalin concentrations. The results indicated that the two land use types affected AM fungal populations. However, the establishment of AM fungi in the farming site was more successful than in the mining site as indicated by the higher infectivity pontential. Selected host plants, which were collected around the mine area, were observed to be mainly colonised by AM fungi and these were identified as Pentzia incana, Elytropappus rhinocerotis, Euphorbia meloformis, Selago corymbosa, Albuca canadensis and Helichrysum rosum. These plant species were able to thrive under harsh environmental conditions, thereby indicating their potential use as rehabilitation host plants. Generally, the findings of this study has provided an insight into the interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and other soil microorganisms in two fields with differing land use management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Diet and feeding effects of introduced giraffe in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Jacobs, Evert Philippus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Giraffe -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Giraffe -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Introduced mammals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10703 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/964 , Giraffe -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Giraffe -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Introduced mammals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study presents the results of a study on introduced giraffe diet and feeding effects within the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Five sites were selected over a moisture gradient from the mesic east to the arid west of the Eastern Cape to describe giraffe diet and provide baseline data for feeding effect experiments. At each site faecal samples were collected seasonally and diet composition determined by microhistological analysis. Plant species availability was measured using the point intersect method in order to compare plant availability to plant consumption to determine diet preferences. Giraffe diet across the sites showed a unimodal response to rainfall by utilising fewer species in drier areas where plant availability is low and increasing the number of species consumed as the rainfall increases. In higher rainfall areas, giraffe reduced the number of plant species fed upon because of the high availability of important species that reduces the need for a varied diet. Across all sites, plant availability was dominated by woody plant species (more than 90 percent at each site). A total of 57 plants species were recorded as being eaten across the five sites. Several PDI (Principle Diet Items) plant species (Acacia karroo, Schotia afra, Pappea capensis and Euclea undulata) were eaten across sites. Over all the sites, significantly preferred species were Asparagus striatus, Schotia latifolia, Asparagus suaveolens, Commelina benghalensis, Viscum rotundifolium, and Acacia cyclops. Acacia karroo, Schotia afra, Pappea capensis, Rhus crenata, A. tetracantha, and Grewia robusta were utilised in proportion to their availability. Euclea undulata, Rhus longispina and Putterlickia pyracantha were avoided. Feeding effects were tested by erecting exclosures around trees, covering one half of each tree. Ten trees were selected for these manipulative experiments which ran from September 2003 to February 2005. The number of branches, number of leaves, branch orders, branch diameter, branch length, leaf length and leaf width were measured for ten samples per side (enclosed vs. exposed) and analysed using a Wilcoxon matched pairs test and tested for effect size using Cohen’s d. Although no significant differences were detected between the sides measured, the effect size indicated differences in all measurements between sides ranging from low to moderate. Leaf length was greater on the outside of exclosures and showed a moderate difference between the sides in terms of the d-value with the p-value (0.059) tending towards significance. Although leaf width was higher on the inside of exclosures, it only showed a moderate difference for d with no statistical significance. Leaf area was higher on the inside of exclosures and tended to significance (p = 0.059) and similarly the d value indicated moderate differences between the sides in terms of effect size. Similarly branch length was higher on the inside of exclosures although not significantly, the p-value (0.07) approached significance. The effect size for branch length also showed a moderate difference between the sides. The number of branches and the number of leaves showed no statistical differences between the sides although the p-value (0.059) for the number of branches, as well as number of leaves (p = 0.07) approached significance. For both these variables, effect size showed a moderate difference. Giraffe showed diversity in their diet selection across sites but mainly fed upon available species. Some preferred species were however less available and this preference could possibly result in increased pressure on the selected plant species Exclosure experiments showed no significant differences in leaf and shoot characteristics although all measurements showed differences in terms of effect size meriting further investigation. It is concluded that giraffe impact on sites may be reduced if populations are properly managed however, high densities of giraffe could lead to similar vegetation impacts as observed in other areas where giraffe have been introduced and potentially change vegetation structure and plant community composition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jacobs, Evert Philippus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Giraffe -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Giraffe -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Introduced mammals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10703 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/964 , Giraffe -- Food -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Giraffe -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal-plant relationships -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Introduced mammals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study presents the results of a study on introduced giraffe diet and feeding effects within the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Five sites were selected over a moisture gradient from the mesic east to the arid west of the Eastern Cape to describe giraffe diet and provide baseline data for feeding effect experiments. At each site faecal samples were collected seasonally and diet composition determined by microhistological analysis. Plant species availability was measured using the point intersect method in order to compare plant availability to plant consumption to determine diet preferences. Giraffe diet across the sites showed a unimodal response to rainfall by utilising fewer species in drier areas where plant availability is low and increasing the number of species consumed as the rainfall increases. In higher rainfall areas, giraffe reduced the number of plant species fed upon because of the high availability of important species that reduces the need for a varied diet. Across all sites, plant availability was dominated by woody plant species (more than 90 percent at each site). A total of 57 plants species were recorded as being eaten across the five sites. Several PDI (Principle Diet Items) plant species (Acacia karroo, Schotia afra, Pappea capensis and Euclea undulata) were eaten across sites. Over all the sites, significantly preferred species were Asparagus striatus, Schotia latifolia, Asparagus suaveolens, Commelina benghalensis, Viscum rotundifolium, and Acacia cyclops. Acacia karroo, Schotia afra, Pappea capensis, Rhus crenata, A. tetracantha, and Grewia robusta were utilised in proportion to their availability. Euclea undulata, Rhus longispina and Putterlickia pyracantha were avoided. Feeding effects were tested by erecting exclosures around trees, covering one half of each tree. Ten trees were selected for these manipulative experiments which ran from September 2003 to February 2005. The number of branches, number of leaves, branch orders, branch diameter, branch length, leaf length and leaf width were measured for ten samples per side (enclosed vs. exposed) and analysed using a Wilcoxon matched pairs test and tested for effect size using Cohen’s d. Although no significant differences were detected between the sides measured, the effect size indicated differences in all measurements between sides ranging from low to moderate. Leaf length was greater on the outside of exclosures and showed a moderate difference between the sides in terms of the d-value with the p-value (0.059) tending towards significance. Although leaf width was higher on the inside of exclosures, it only showed a moderate difference for d with no statistical significance. Leaf area was higher on the inside of exclosures and tended to significance (p = 0.059) and similarly the d value indicated moderate differences between the sides in terms of effect size. Similarly branch length was higher on the inside of exclosures although not significantly, the p-value (0.07) approached significance. The effect size for branch length also showed a moderate difference between the sides. The number of branches and the number of leaves showed no statistical differences between the sides although the p-value (0.059) for the number of branches, as well as number of leaves (p = 0.07) approached significance. For both these variables, effect size showed a moderate difference. Giraffe showed diversity in their diet selection across sites but mainly fed upon available species. Some preferred species were however less available and this preference could possibly result in increased pressure on the selected plant species Exclosure experiments showed no significant differences in leaf and shoot characteristics although all measurements showed differences in terms of effect size meriting further investigation. It is concluded that giraffe impact on sites may be reduced if populations are properly managed however, high densities of giraffe could lead to similar vegetation impacts as observed in other areas where giraffe have been introduced and potentially change vegetation structure and plant community composition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
The role of the school management in addressing the problem of drug abuse in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Jacobs, Lee-Ann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9545 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/675 , High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Drug abuse by teenagers is a problem encountered by educators in South African schools. This study focuses on the reasons for, and the consequences of teenage drug abuse in one school in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. The main aim of this study was to formulate strategies which school managers can use to alleviate the problem of drug abuse among learners. A naturalistic approach was followed to conduct qualitative research. The research design used is a case study. Data-collection techniques consisted of semi-structured and unstructured interviews, observations and questionnaires. Respondents consisted of 150 learners, 5 parents, 10 educators from the school, 2 social workers and 1 auxiliary social worker, 2 priests involved in Youth Ministry, 1 adult involved in running a drug rehabilitation centre, and 1 ex-addict who is involved in arranging drug awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs. This study found family aspects and family dynamics, personal aspects and the self-concept of the teenager, and societal or environmental aspects to be the main reasons for teenage drug abuse. Drugs have an adverse effect on the community within which the abuse is occurring. It also has a negative effect on the health, psychological state, behaviour and the family of the teenager. Strategies to alleviate the problem emphasise the role which the school can play in terms of drug education for educators, learners and parents; the role of the Government in allocating additional funds for drug education; the role which the church can play in terms of drug education and providing opportunities for positive interactions with peers; and the role which the media can play in influencing the decisions of teenagers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jacobs, Lee-Ann
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9545 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/675 , High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Drug abuse by teenagers is a problem encountered by educators in South African schools. This study focuses on the reasons for, and the consequences of teenage drug abuse in one school in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth. The main aim of this study was to formulate strategies which school managers can use to alleviate the problem of drug abuse among learners. A naturalistic approach was followed to conduct qualitative research. The research design used is a case study. Data-collection techniques consisted of semi-structured and unstructured interviews, observations and questionnaires. Respondents consisted of 150 learners, 5 parents, 10 educators from the school, 2 social workers and 1 auxiliary social worker, 2 priests involved in Youth Ministry, 1 adult involved in running a drug rehabilitation centre, and 1 ex-addict who is involved in arranging drug awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs. This study found family aspects and family dynamics, personal aspects and the self-concept of the teenager, and societal or environmental aspects to be the main reasons for teenage drug abuse. Drugs have an adverse effect on the community within which the abuse is occurring. It also has a negative effect on the health, psychological state, behaviour and the family of the teenager. Strategies to alleviate the problem emphasise the role which the school can play in terms of drug education for educators, learners and parents; the role of the Government in allocating additional funds for drug education; the role which the church can play in terms of drug education and providing opportunities for positive interactions with peers; and the role which the media can play in influencing the decisions of teenagers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Faktore wat die oorlewing van volstruiskuikens (Struthio Camelus) verhoog
- Authors: Janse Van Vuuren, Maryke
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Ostrich farming -- South Africa , Ostriches -- Breeding -- South Africa
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10588 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/848 , Ostrich farming -- South Africa , Ostriches -- Breeding -- South Africa
- Description: Hierdie verhandeling is ‘n samestelling van verskeie studies, elk opgeskryf in die formaat en styl soos vereis deur die Suid-Afrikaanse Vereeniging vir Diereproduksie (South African Society of Animal Science). Hoofstuk 1 is ‘n literatuurstudie bestaande uit ‘n algemene inleiding wat agtergrond oor die studie verskaf en sluit die probleemstelling in, naamlik die swak oorlewing van volstruiskuikens wat onder kunsmatige toestande grootgemaak word. Hoofstukke 2, 3, 4 en 5 bestaan uit die eerste vier studies, waartydens sekere bestuurs-aspekte, wat moontlik oorlewing van volstruiskuikens kan verbeter (nl: populasiedigtheid, tipe vloer-oppervlak, die aanwending van broeipare en die aanwending van peetouers), ondersoek is. Hoofstukke 6, 7, 8 & 9 handel oor studies wat gerig is om voeding meer aanloklik te maak vir volstruiskuikens teneinde voedselinname te stimuleer en sodoende produksie en oorlewing te verbeter (nl: verskaffing van groenvoer, geur van voer, kleur van voer en beligting van voer). Die laaste hoofstuk bestaan uit ‘n algemene gevolgtrekking en aanbevelings. Alhoewel daar gepoog is om herhaling in hoofstukke te beperk, was dit onmoontlik om herhaling van sekere gedeeltes van hoofstukke te voorkom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Janse Van Vuuren, Maryke
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Ostrich farming -- South Africa , Ostriches -- Breeding -- South Africa
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10588 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/848 , Ostrich farming -- South Africa , Ostriches -- Breeding -- South Africa
- Description: Hierdie verhandeling is ‘n samestelling van verskeie studies, elk opgeskryf in die formaat en styl soos vereis deur die Suid-Afrikaanse Vereeniging vir Diereproduksie (South African Society of Animal Science). Hoofstuk 1 is ‘n literatuurstudie bestaande uit ‘n algemene inleiding wat agtergrond oor die studie verskaf en sluit die probleemstelling in, naamlik die swak oorlewing van volstruiskuikens wat onder kunsmatige toestande grootgemaak word. Hoofstukke 2, 3, 4 en 5 bestaan uit die eerste vier studies, waartydens sekere bestuurs-aspekte, wat moontlik oorlewing van volstruiskuikens kan verbeter (nl: populasiedigtheid, tipe vloer-oppervlak, die aanwending van broeipare en die aanwending van peetouers), ondersoek is. Hoofstukke 6, 7, 8 & 9 handel oor studies wat gerig is om voeding meer aanloklik te maak vir volstruiskuikens teneinde voedselinname te stimuleer en sodoende produksie en oorlewing te verbeter (nl: verskaffing van groenvoer, geur van voer, kleur van voer en beligting van voer). Die laaste hoofstuk bestaan uit ‘n algemene gevolgtrekking en aanbevelings. Alhoewel daar gepoog is om herhaling in hoofstukke te beperk, was dit onmoontlik om herhaling van sekere gedeeltes van hoofstukke te voorkom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
The development of a total quality management organisational culture for Eden District Municipality
- Authors: Jantjies, Xavier
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Total quality management in government -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Organizational effectiveness , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8708 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/988 , Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Total quality management in government -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Organizational effectiveness , Industrial management
- Description: Local governments are under tremendous pressure to control their costs and improve their services. Managing quality at local government level implies an enormous upheaval in organisational culture. The changing environment calls for new approaches to meeting the organisation’s mission. Total quality management is one of the tools, which government organisations are embracing to meet the growing demand of a changing environment. This paper will discuss the quest for service excellence and continuous improvement and the role of employees in total quality management and how this can be maximized by managers. It will also focus on cultural transformation principles that are useful in promoting quality processes and output and consequently service excellence in an organisation. The main objective of this research study is to investigate how a total quality management organisational culture can be developed at Eden District Municipality. To realize it, the current organisational culture at Eden District Municipality was analysed to determine what should be done. A literature review was conducted to determine the components of a total quality management organisational culture. All this information was used to formulate an approach for the development of a total quality management organisational culture. The empirical study involved a questionnaire, a sample and statistical analysis adapted to solve the main and sub-problems of the study. The research data indicated that Eden District Municipality does not support a total quality management organisational culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jantjies, Xavier
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Total quality management in government -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Organizational effectiveness , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8708 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/988 , Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Total quality management in government -- South Africa -- Eden district municipality , Organizational effectiveness , Industrial management
- Description: Local governments are under tremendous pressure to control their costs and improve their services. Managing quality at local government level implies an enormous upheaval in organisational culture. The changing environment calls for new approaches to meeting the organisation’s mission. Total quality management is one of the tools, which government organisations are embracing to meet the growing demand of a changing environment. This paper will discuss the quest for service excellence and continuous improvement and the role of employees in total quality management and how this can be maximized by managers. It will also focus on cultural transformation principles that are useful in promoting quality processes and output and consequently service excellence in an organisation. The main objective of this research study is to investigate how a total quality management organisational culture can be developed at Eden District Municipality. To realize it, the current organisational culture at Eden District Municipality was analysed to determine what should be done. A literature review was conducted to determine the components of a total quality management organisational culture. All this information was used to formulate an approach for the development of a total quality management organisational culture. The empirical study involved a questionnaire, a sample and statistical analysis adapted to solve the main and sub-problems of the study. The research data indicated that Eden District Municipality does not support a total quality management organisational culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An adaptive user interface model for contact centres
- Authors: Jason, Bronwin Anastasia
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Call centers -- Management , Customer services -- Management , Call centers -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10467 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/989 , Call centers -- Management , Customer services -- Management , Call centers -- Customer services
- Description: Contact centres (CC), are the primary interaction point between a company and its customers and these are rapidly expanding in terms of both workforce and economic scope. An important challenge for today's CC solutions is to increase the speed at which CCAs retrieve information to answer customer queries. CCAs, however, differ in their ability to respond to these queries and do not interact with the computer user interface (UI) in the same way as they each have different capabilities, experience and expertise. Studies have provided empirical support that user performance can be increased when the computer UI characteristics match the user skill level. Adaptive user interfaces (AUIs) are the key to creating personalised systems. Their sole task is to provide an interface most suitable to users' needs whilst facilitating the users' varying skill levels. The aim of this research was to develop an AUI model for CCs to support and improve the expertise level of CCAs. A literature review of CCs, user expertise, AUIs and existing AUI models resulted in the proposal of an AUI model for CCs. The proposed AUI model was described in terms of its architecture, component-level and interface design. An AUI prototype was developed as a proof-of-concept of the proposed AUI model. A literature review on existing AUI evaluation approaches resulted in an evaluation strategy for the proposed AUI model. The AUI prototype was evaluated according to the evaluation strategy that was identified. User testing incorporating eye-tracking and a post-test questionnaire was used to determine the usefulness and usability of the AUI prototype. Significant results were found with regards to user satisfaction ratings, the learnability of the AUI prototype and its effectiveness. This dissertation makes an important contribution in the design of an AUI model that supports and improves the expertise level of CCAs. The model could be used to assist the development of CC applications incorporating AUIs. Future research is however needed to evaluate the effect of the proposed AUI model in a larger CC environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jason, Bronwin Anastasia
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Call centers -- Management , Customer services -- Management , Call centers -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10467 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/989 , Call centers -- Management , Customer services -- Management , Call centers -- Customer services
- Description: Contact centres (CC), are the primary interaction point between a company and its customers and these are rapidly expanding in terms of both workforce and economic scope. An important challenge for today's CC solutions is to increase the speed at which CCAs retrieve information to answer customer queries. CCAs, however, differ in their ability to respond to these queries and do not interact with the computer user interface (UI) in the same way as they each have different capabilities, experience and expertise. Studies have provided empirical support that user performance can be increased when the computer UI characteristics match the user skill level. Adaptive user interfaces (AUIs) are the key to creating personalised systems. Their sole task is to provide an interface most suitable to users' needs whilst facilitating the users' varying skill levels. The aim of this research was to develop an AUI model for CCs to support and improve the expertise level of CCAs. A literature review of CCs, user expertise, AUIs and existing AUI models resulted in the proposal of an AUI model for CCs. The proposed AUI model was described in terms of its architecture, component-level and interface design. An AUI prototype was developed as a proof-of-concept of the proposed AUI model. A literature review on existing AUI evaluation approaches resulted in an evaluation strategy for the proposed AUI model. The AUI prototype was evaluated according to the evaluation strategy that was identified. User testing incorporating eye-tracking and a post-test questionnaire was used to determine the usefulness and usability of the AUI prototype. Significant results were found with regards to user satisfaction ratings, the learnability of the AUI prototype and its effectiveness. This dissertation makes an important contribution in the design of an AUI model that supports and improves the expertise level of CCAs. The model could be used to assist the development of CC applications incorporating AUIs. Future research is however needed to evaluate the effect of the proposed AUI model in a larger CC environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Curriculum recontextualising using gardens for the health promotion in the life orientation learning area of the senior phase
- Authors: Jenkins, Msawenkosi Wiseman
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies School gardens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gardening -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental education -- Curricula -- Case studies Environmental policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003368
- Description: With a view to understanding how curriculum is interpreted at classroom practice level, the study examined three stories of how the environmental discourse of the National Curriculum Statements (R-9) was recontextualised using school gardens in the Life Orientation Learning Area for the Senior Phase. To understand how the curriculum is recontextualised, I used Bernstein's theory of recontexutalisation where he explained how official pedagogic discourse (OPD) (in this case the environmental discourse is first delocated once it is transferred from the field of production (FOP) and relocated in the recontextualising field (where teacher educators and departmental officials mediate the discourse) and in the field of reproduction (FOR) which is the classroom and school. Bernstein explained that as the discourse is delocated and relocated it undergoes transformation. This transformation is influenced by practitioners' prior-knowledge, experience, culture and beliefs and other factors. To understand how transformation of the environmental discourse takes place, Bernstein's conceptual constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation were applied to an interpretation of three lesson processes, to explain how the discourse was changed. Each lesson was reviewed in terms of the selective appropriations and ideological transformations which took place. All three of the lessons observed took place in one school, and as such the study is designed as an interpretive case study where I have tried to make meaning from a rich, thick description of a specific case context. The school is located in Bizana, one of the villages in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province,, and is currently in the process of implementing South Africa’s new National Curriculum Statement (NCS) like all other schools in South Africa. In conducting the research I observed lessons, interviewed the learners and teachers, and a community member and the manager of the SANBI greening project, and I also analysed documents which included the NCS for Life Orientation, and teachers planning documents and learners work produced in the lessons. I started the study by conducting a document analysis of the NCS, through which I identified dimensions of the Official Pedagogic Discourse. This was used as a framework to review the lessons to understand how the OPD was being recontextualised. The study concludes by discussing the key findings of the study in the form of a set of analytical statements. Some of the findings indicate that teachers have not been given adequate training for understanding and implementing the NCS which affects the recontextualisation process. The study shows that there is a dire need for professional development if the OPD is to be interpreted adequately by teachers so that its implementation at the meso and micro- levels becomes clear and effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jenkins, Msawenkosi Wiseman
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies School gardens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Gardening -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental education -- Curricula -- Case studies Environmental policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003368
- Description: With a view to understanding how curriculum is interpreted at classroom practice level, the study examined three stories of how the environmental discourse of the National Curriculum Statements (R-9) was recontextualised using school gardens in the Life Orientation Learning Area for the Senior Phase. To understand how the curriculum is recontextualised, I used Bernstein's theory of recontexutalisation where he explained how official pedagogic discourse (OPD) (in this case the environmental discourse is first delocated once it is transferred from the field of production (FOP) and relocated in the recontextualising field (where teacher educators and departmental officials mediate the discourse) and in the field of reproduction (FOR) which is the classroom and school. Bernstein explained that as the discourse is delocated and relocated it undergoes transformation. This transformation is influenced by practitioners' prior-knowledge, experience, culture and beliefs and other factors. To understand how transformation of the environmental discourse takes place, Bernstein's conceptual constructs of selective appropriation and ideological transformation were applied to an interpretation of three lesson processes, to explain how the discourse was changed. Each lesson was reviewed in terms of the selective appropriations and ideological transformations which took place. All three of the lessons observed took place in one school, and as such the study is designed as an interpretive case study where I have tried to make meaning from a rich, thick description of a specific case context. The school is located in Bizana, one of the villages in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province,, and is currently in the process of implementing South Africa’s new National Curriculum Statement (NCS) like all other schools in South Africa. In conducting the research I observed lessons, interviewed the learners and teachers, and a community member and the manager of the SANBI greening project, and I also analysed documents which included the NCS for Life Orientation, and teachers planning documents and learners work produced in the lessons. I started the study by conducting a document analysis of the NCS, through which I identified dimensions of the Official Pedagogic Discourse. This was used as a framework to review the lessons to understand how the OPD was being recontextualised. The study concludes by discussing the key findings of the study in the form of a set of analytical statements. Some of the findings indicate that teachers have not been given adequate training for understanding and implementing the NCS which affects the recontextualisation process. The study shows that there is a dire need for professional development if the OPD is to be interpreted adequately by teachers so that its implementation at the meso and micro- levels becomes clear and effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Corporate governance for sustainable development : implications for non-executive directors and the management accounting function
- Jodwana, Thembinkosi Anthony Vincent
- Authors: Jodwana, Thembinkosi Anthony Vincent
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Corporate governance , Sustainable development , Directors of corporations , Corporations -- Finance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8975 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/807 , Corporate governance , Sustainable development , Directors of corporations , Corporations -- Finance -- Management
- Description: This paper will discuss the role that corporate governance can play in promoting sustainable development. Sustainable development is discussed in relation to three things: • Current development which does not result in the damage and destruction of the environment to the detriment of future inhabitants of this planet. This paper will discuss the role that corporate governance can play in promoting sustainable development. Sustainable development is discussed in relation to three things: • Current development which does not result in the damage and destruction of the environment to the detriment of future inhabitants of this planet.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jodwana, Thembinkosi Anthony Vincent
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Corporate governance , Sustainable development , Directors of corporations , Corporations -- Finance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8975 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/807 , Corporate governance , Sustainable development , Directors of corporations , Corporations -- Finance -- Management
- Description: This paper will discuss the role that corporate governance can play in promoting sustainable development. Sustainable development is discussed in relation to three things: • Current development which does not result in the damage and destruction of the environment to the detriment of future inhabitants of this planet. This paper will discuss the role that corporate governance can play in promoting sustainable development. Sustainable development is discussed in relation to three things: • Current development which does not result in the damage and destruction of the environment to the detriment of future inhabitants of this planet.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Development of platinum metal specific separating agents
- Authors: Jonck, Heine
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Platinum , Platinum -- Separation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10401 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/712 , Platinum , Platinum -- Separation
- Description: In this dissertation, the aim was to develop a platinum specific resin to be utilized for the early removal of platinum from the industrial feed solution. Efforts were therefore directed towards the syntheses of silica based resins, with active centra, designed for platinum. The large chlorometallate ions present in the feed stream, were characterized in terms of physical parameters relevant to phase distribution, namely distortability (RD), charge density, softness (σ) etc. Matching cations for each of the types were investigated. In order to attempt the design of platinum specific resins, different structural amines were used to aminate the silicone precursor and to subsequently fix these onto the silica framework. Two different solvents namely alcohol and dmf were used in this process, resulting in two sets of resins, with different properties. The design was based on previous experience with these ions, with reference to their behaviour towards different types of cations. The platinum species, PtCl6 2- and PtCl4 2-, as well as the most important contaminants in the feed stream, were typified, bearing in mind size, charge, charge density and distortability. Different types of cationic centra, having differences in charge density, stereochemical crowding and extent of hydrophobicity, were synthesized and tested-both as solvent extractants (where possible) and silica based resins. The results indicated that, partly screened secondary ammonium cationic resin species, which could be regarded as “intermediate”, proved to be satisfactory both in their high percentage extraction for PtCl4 2- and rejection of contaminants like chlororhodates, chloroiridates(III) and FeCl4 -. It was however necessary, to work at a redox potential, where iridium(IV) in the form of IrCl6 2-, was absent. Various 2-aminoalkane resins were prepared, with variation in the length of alkane group and synthesised by the two different solvents. The latter resulted in two sets of resins with not only differing compactness, but also having significantly different properties with reference to platinum specificity, HCl effect and stripping potential. The 2-aminobutane and 2-aminoheptane resins in particular, proved to be very satisfactory platinum specific resins, both with respect to selectivity, platinum capacity and stripping potential. The various physical parameters could be applied to identify the chemical behaviour of anions and assist in the development of anion specificity for the relevant species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Jonck, Heine
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Platinum , Platinum -- Separation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10401 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/712 , Platinum , Platinum -- Separation
- Description: In this dissertation, the aim was to develop a platinum specific resin to be utilized for the early removal of platinum from the industrial feed solution. Efforts were therefore directed towards the syntheses of silica based resins, with active centra, designed for platinum. The large chlorometallate ions present in the feed stream, were characterized in terms of physical parameters relevant to phase distribution, namely distortability (RD), charge density, softness (σ) etc. Matching cations for each of the types were investigated. In order to attempt the design of platinum specific resins, different structural amines were used to aminate the silicone precursor and to subsequently fix these onto the silica framework. Two different solvents namely alcohol and dmf were used in this process, resulting in two sets of resins, with different properties. The design was based on previous experience with these ions, with reference to their behaviour towards different types of cations. The platinum species, PtCl6 2- and PtCl4 2-, as well as the most important contaminants in the feed stream, were typified, bearing in mind size, charge, charge density and distortability. Different types of cationic centra, having differences in charge density, stereochemical crowding and extent of hydrophobicity, were synthesized and tested-both as solvent extractants (where possible) and silica based resins. The results indicated that, partly screened secondary ammonium cationic resin species, which could be regarded as “intermediate”, proved to be satisfactory both in their high percentage extraction for PtCl4 2- and rejection of contaminants like chlororhodates, chloroiridates(III) and FeCl4 -. It was however necessary, to work at a redox potential, where iridium(IV) in the form of IrCl6 2-, was absent. Various 2-aminoalkane resins were prepared, with variation in the length of alkane group and synthesised by the two different solvents. The latter resulted in two sets of resins with not only differing compactness, but also having significantly different properties with reference to platinum specificity, HCl effect and stripping potential. The 2-aminobutane and 2-aminoheptane resins in particular, proved to be very satisfactory platinum specific resins, both with respect to selectivity, platinum capacity and stripping potential. The various physical parameters could be applied to identify the chemical behaviour of anions and assist in the development of anion specificity for the relevant species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Confiscation orders in terms of the prevention of Organised Crime Act
- Authors: Juicy, Gavin Winston Bill
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Forfeiture -- South Africa , Organized crime -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/750 , Forfeiture -- South Africa , Organized crime -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Description: The Prevention of Organised Crime Act brought major changes to the South African criminal law context. Through the Act, major confiscatory provisions were established. The Act does not only target convicted criminals, but also any person who is in possession of tainted property that was used in the commission of offences. Civil forfeiture is the most widely used procedure in forfeiture proceedings. In the dissertation the effectiveness of criminal and civil confiscation is outlined. The historical development of confiscation and forfeiture provisions in South African is discussed with reference to the common law, legislation and international instruments and how international developments have influenced local development. This treatise consist of an overview of the confiscation provisions in the Prevention of Organised Act 121 of 1998 as one of the measures the South African legislature put in place to deal with organised crime. Since the Prevention of Organised Crime Act was passed, the courts have given meaning to what is an instrumentality of an offence and the proceeds of unlawful activities as a measure to counter organised crime. This treatise refers to those cases given the definition of an instrumentality of an offence and the proceeds of unlawful activities. For the purpose of effectively dealing with organised crime, this treatise contains a discussion on the effectiveness of criminal and civil confiscation procedure. The justification for asset forfeiture is outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Juicy, Gavin Winston Bill
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Forfeiture -- South Africa , Organized crime -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/750 , Forfeiture -- South Africa , Organized crime -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Description: The Prevention of Organised Crime Act brought major changes to the South African criminal law context. Through the Act, major confiscatory provisions were established. The Act does not only target convicted criminals, but also any person who is in possession of tainted property that was used in the commission of offences. Civil forfeiture is the most widely used procedure in forfeiture proceedings. In the dissertation the effectiveness of criminal and civil confiscation is outlined. The historical development of confiscation and forfeiture provisions in South African is discussed with reference to the common law, legislation and international instruments and how international developments have influenced local development. This treatise consist of an overview of the confiscation provisions in the Prevention of Organised Act 121 of 1998 as one of the measures the South African legislature put in place to deal with organised crime. Since the Prevention of Organised Crime Act was passed, the courts have given meaning to what is an instrumentality of an offence and the proceeds of unlawful activities as a measure to counter organised crime. This treatise refers to those cases given the definition of an instrumentality of an offence and the proceeds of unlawful activities. For the purpose of effectively dealing with organised crime, this treatise contains a discussion on the effectiveness of criminal and civil confiscation procedure. The justification for asset forfeiture is outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Land management in the Wild Coast: the case of indigenous people in Coffee Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Kalumba, Ahmed Mukalazi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/79 , Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: An under-reported consequence of the democratic transition is the impact on land management (LM) within communal areas of South Africa (SA).Yet land is an essential natural resource, both for the survival and prosperity of humanity, and for the maintenance of all terrestrial ecosystems (FAO&UNEP,1997.)This study focuses on land management in the Wild Coast with special reference to indigenous people in Coffee Bay.Using the concept of the land management paradigm, the study adopts an intensive research design for the analysis and interpretation of data.The study aims to examine how land as a 'resource'is managed by the local indigenous people with special reference to wether it is moving towards or away from sustainability.The study discusses LM in the rural-built up environment with emphasis on land based activities, land tenure, gender issues,indigenous knowledge systems, changes in land use and degradation.The study looks at the indigenous people's participation in the new LM policy formation as predetermined by the grand scheme of democratization and decentralization.It highlights that indigenous knowledge systems are at the centre in rural sustainable LM, and equity in land issues forms another breakthrough for communal tenure system in the new SA.Indigenous people's views in policy formulation are not necessarily matched with national policy objectives due to poor public consultation.In general, the study provides an understanding of how indigenous people grapple with new policy changes in LM, to ensure sustainable land management in the rural South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kalumba, Ahmed Mukalazi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/79 , Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: An under-reported consequence of the democratic transition is the impact on land management (LM) within communal areas of South Africa (SA).Yet land is an essential natural resource, both for the survival and prosperity of humanity, and for the maintenance of all terrestrial ecosystems (FAO&UNEP,1997.)This study focuses on land management in the Wild Coast with special reference to indigenous people in Coffee Bay.Using the concept of the land management paradigm, the study adopts an intensive research design for the analysis and interpretation of data.The study aims to examine how land as a 'resource'is managed by the local indigenous people with special reference to wether it is moving towards or away from sustainability.The study discusses LM in the rural-built up environment with emphasis on land based activities, land tenure, gender issues,indigenous knowledge systems, changes in land use and degradation.The study looks at the indigenous people's participation in the new LM policy formation as predetermined by the grand scheme of democratization and decentralization.It highlights that indigenous knowledge systems are at the centre in rural sustainable LM, and equity in land issues forms another breakthrough for communal tenure system in the new SA.Indigenous people's views in policy formulation are not necessarily matched with national policy objectives due to poor public consultation.In general, the study provides an understanding of how indigenous people grapple with new policy changes in LM, to ensure sustainable land management in the rural South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Teachers' perceptions of participative management in a primary school in Namibia
- Authors: Kambonde, Samuel Angaleni
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education, Elementary -- Namibia Teachers -- Namibia School management and organization -- Namibia Educational leadership -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003680
- Description: Participative management, a key theme in contemporary management literature, is one of the central aims of the decentralization policy in Namibian education. Current perceptions of participative management on the part of teachers in Namibia are therefore of topical interest. This study set out to explore such perceptions among teachers in a Namibian primary school. The study is an interpretive case study focusing on six individual teachers’ understanding and experience of participative management within their place of work, a primary school in the Oshikoto region of Namibia. Semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis were used to gather data. The study revealed a strong sense of commitment among the respondents to participative management and its accompanying practices, such as shared decision making and broad stakeholder involvement. Participative management was implemented chiefly through a committee structure for school organisation and government. Respondents also highlighted challenges facing participative management, such as the persistence of autocratic leadership, conflicts of interest in decision making, laziness and unwillingness among staff members, and a lack of understanding among parents concerning their role in the schooling of their children. HIV/AIDS was also seen to pose challenges to the free and frequent participation of stakeholders. The chief recommendation arising from these findings is that school leaders and managers’ understanding of tenets of participative management, such as site-based management and democratic management approaches, requires improvement and development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kambonde, Samuel Angaleni
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education, Elementary -- Namibia Teachers -- Namibia School management and organization -- Namibia Educational leadership -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003680
- Description: Participative management, a key theme in contemporary management literature, is one of the central aims of the decentralization policy in Namibian education. Current perceptions of participative management on the part of teachers in Namibia are therefore of topical interest. This study set out to explore such perceptions among teachers in a Namibian primary school. The study is an interpretive case study focusing on six individual teachers’ understanding and experience of participative management within their place of work, a primary school in the Oshikoto region of Namibia. Semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis were used to gather data. The study revealed a strong sense of commitment among the respondents to participative management and its accompanying practices, such as shared decision making and broad stakeholder involvement. Participative management was implemented chiefly through a committee structure for school organisation and government. Respondents also highlighted challenges facing participative management, such as the persistence of autocratic leadership, conflicts of interest in decision making, laziness and unwillingness among staff members, and a lack of understanding among parents concerning their role in the schooling of their children. HIV/AIDS was also seen to pose challenges to the free and frequent participation of stakeholders. The chief recommendation arising from these findings is that school leaders and managers’ understanding of tenets of participative management, such as site-based management and democratic management approaches, requires improvement and development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Effect of salinity on oxygen consumption and growth of juvenile white steenbras, litohognathus lithognathus
- Authors: Kandjou, Kaunahama
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Lithognathus -- Growth , Salinity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5275 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005119 , Lithognathus -- Growth , Salinity
- Description: A stress-induced increase in metabolic rate of fish consumes energy within the metabolic scope of a fish that could otherwise be used for such functions as growth and reproduction. By estimating the degree of the metabolic response under given salinity levels and sudden changes thereof, it could be tested whether growth under given culture conditions could be predicted. Using intermittent respirometers, this study investigated the metabolic response of juvenile Lithognathus lithognathus following gradual acclimation to 5, 25 and 35‰ and, as a result of abrupt change from 35‰ to 5‰ or from 35‰ to 25‰ at 20˚C. The main aim of the study was to establish whether the magnitude of such responses could be used to predict growth of juvenile L. lithognathus under culture conditions. Hence, in addition to the respirometry study, two growth studies were conducted at 5, 10, 25 and 35‰ salinities. The baseline metabolic rates of juvenile L. lithognathus were also determined. Oxygen consumption measurements over 24-hours showed that most fish exhibited a diurnal peak in metabolic rates. The standard and active metabolic rates calculated from juvenile L. lithognathus with a diurnal peak in oxygen consumption were 0.06±0.001mgO₂g⁻¹h⁻¹ (mean±SEM, n = 5), and 0.11±0.01mg O₂g⁻¹h⁻¹, respectively. The standard and active metabolic rates of juvenile L lithognathus showing a nocturnal peak in metabolic activities were 0.04±0.001mgO₂g-1h-1 (n = 1), and 0.12±0.003 mg O₂g⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively. Routine metabolic rate of these fish calculated over a 3-h measurement period was 0.09±0.005mgO₂g⁻¹h⁻¹ (n = 6). Juvenile L. lithognathus showed a relationship between metabolic rate (mo₂) and body weight (W) following the equation: mo₂ = 0.62 W⁻°·⁵³.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kandjou, Kaunahama
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Lithognathus -- Growth , Salinity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5275 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005119 , Lithognathus -- Growth , Salinity
- Description: A stress-induced increase in metabolic rate of fish consumes energy within the metabolic scope of a fish that could otherwise be used for such functions as growth and reproduction. By estimating the degree of the metabolic response under given salinity levels and sudden changes thereof, it could be tested whether growth under given culture conditions could be predicted. Using intermittent respirometers, this study investigated the metabolic response of juvenile Lithognathus lithognathus following gradual acclimation to 5, 25 and 35‰ and, as a result of abrupt change from 35‰ to 5‰ or from 35‰ to 25‰ at 20˚C. The main aim of the study was to establish whether the magnitude of such responses could be used to predict growth of juvenile L. lithognathus under culture conditions. Hence, in addition to the respirometry study, two growth studies were conducted at 5, 10, 25 and 35‰ salinities. The baseline metabolic rates of juvenile L. lithognathus were also determined. Oxygen consumption measurements over 24-hours showed that most fish exhibited a diurnal peak in metabolic rates. The standard and active metabolic rates calculated from juvenile L. lithognathus with a diurnal peak in oxygen consumption were 0.06±0.001mgO₂g⁻¹h⁻¹ (mean±SEM, n = 5), and 0.11±0.01mg O₂g⁻¹h⁻¹, respectively. The standard and active metabolic rates of juvenile L lithognathus showing a nocturnal peak in metabolic activities were 0.04±0.001mgO₂g-1h-1 (n = 1), and 0.12±0.003 mg O₂g⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively. Routine metabolic rate of these fish calculated over a 3-h measurement period was 0.09±0.005mgO₂g⁻¹h⁻¹ (n = 6). Juvenile L. lithognathus showed a relationship between metabolic rate (mo₂) and body weight (W) following the equation: mo₂ = 0.62 W⁻°·⁵³.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Revised parameter estimation methods for the Pitman monthly rainfall-runoff model
- Authors: Kapangaziwiri, Evison
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models , Water supply -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6033 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006172 , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models , Water supply -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa
- Description: In recent years, increased demands have been placed on hydrologists to find the most effective methods of making predictions of hydrologic variables in ungauged basins. A huge part of the southern African region is ungauged and, in gauged basins, the extent to which observed flows represent natural flows is unknown, given unquantified upstream activities. The need to exploit water resources for social and economic development, considered in the light of water scarcity forecasts for the region, makes the reliable quantification of water resources a priority. Contemporary approaches to the problem of hydrological prediction in ungauged basins in the region have relied heavily on calibration against a limited gauged streamflow database and somewhat subjective parameter regionalizations using areas of assumed hydrological similarity. The reliance of these approaches on limited historical records, often of dubious quality, introduces uncertainty in water resources decisions. Thus, it is necessary to develop methods of estimating model parameters that are less reliant on calibration. This thesis addresses the question of whether physical basin properties and the role they play in runoff generation processes can be used directly in the estimation of parameter values of the Pitman monthly rainfall-runoff model. A physically-based approach to estimating the soil moisture accounting and runoff parameters of a conceptual, monthly time-step rainfall-runoff model is proposed. The study investigates the physical meaning of the model parameters, establishes linkages between parameter values and basin physical properties and develops relationships and equations for estimating the parameters taking into account the spatial and temporal scales used in typical model applications. The estimationmethods are then tested in selected gauged basins in southern Africa and the results of model simulations evaluated against historical observed flows. The results of 71 basins chosen from the southern African region suggest that it is possible to directly estimate hydrologically relevant parameters for the Pitman model from physical basin attributes. For South Africa, the statistical and visual fit of the simulations using the revised parameters were at least as good as the current regional sets, albeit the parameter sets being different. In the other countries where no regionalized parameter sets currently exist, simulations were equally good. The availability, within the southern African region, of the appropriate physical basin data and the disparities in the spatial scales and the levels of detail of the data currently available were identified as potential sources of uncertainty. GIS and remote sensing technologies and a widespread use of this revised approach are expected to facilitate access to these data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kapangaziwiri, Evison
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models , Water supply -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6033 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006172 , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models , Water supply -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa
- Description: In recent years, increased demands have been placed on hydrologists to find the most effective methods of making predictions of hydrologic variables in ungauged basins. A huge part of the southern African region is ungauged and, in gauged basins, the extent to which observed flows represent natural flows is unknown, given unquantified upstream activities. The need to exploit water resources for social and economic development, considered in the light of water scarcity forecasts for the region, makes the reliable quantification of water resources a priority. Contemporary approaches to the problem of hydrological prediction in ungauged basins in the region have relied heavily on calibration against a limited gauged streamflow database and somewhat subjective parameter regionalizations using areas of assumed hydrological similarity. The reliance of these approaches on limited historical records, often of dubious quality, introduces uncertainty in water resources decisions. Thus, it is necessary to develop methods of estimating model parameters that are less reliant on calibration. This thesis addresses the question of whether physical basin properties and the role they play in runoff generation processes can be used directly in the estimation of parameter values of the Pitman monthly rainfall-runoff model. A physically-based approach to estimating the soil moisture accounting and runoff parameters of a conceptual, monthly time-step rainfall-runoff model is proposed. The study investigates the physical meaning of the model parameters, establishes linkages between parameter values and basin physical properties and develops relationships and equations for estimating the parameters taking into account the spatial and temporal scales used in typical model applications. The estimationmethods are then tested in selected gauged basins in southern Africa and the results of model simulations evaluated against historical observed flows. The results of 71 basins chosen from the southern African region suggest that it is possible to directly estimate hydrologically relevant parameters for the Pitman model from physical basin attributes. For South Africa, the statistical and visual fit of the simulations using the revised parameters were at least as good as the current regional sets, albeit the parameter sets being different. In the other countries where no regionalized parameter sets currently exist, simulations were equally good. The availability, within the southern African region, of the appropriate physical basin data and the disparities in the spatial scales and the levels of detail of the data currently available were identified as potential sources of uncertainty. GIS and remote sensing technologies and a widespread use of this revised approach are expected to facilitate access to these data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008