Using language as a resource: strategies to teach mathematics in multilingual classes
- Authors: Whale, Susan Gaye
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa , Code switching (Linguistics) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Blacks -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9469 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1669 , Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa , Code switching (Linguistics) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Blacks -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: South Africa is a complex multilingual country. In the majority of schools in the Eastern Cape, a province in South Africa, the teachers and learners share the same home language, isiXhosa, but teach and learn mathematics in English. The purpose of this study was to encourage teachers to use the home language as a resource to teach mathematics in multilingual classes. The study follows a mixed method design, using both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data were collected from a survey and poetry, which teachers crafted, in which they highlighted their perceptions about language in their lives. They also reflected on their practices and submitted pieces of contemplative writing. Quantitative data were collected from participating teachers who administered a pre-test to their learners as well as a post- test approximately nine months later after conducting an intervention. The results showed that where strategies, such as the implementation of exploratory talk and code switching which used language as a resource, had been introduced mathematical reasoning improved and classroom climate became more positive. The learners’ lack of confidence in being able to express their reasoning in English was prevalent throughout the reflective writing. By enabling learners to use isiXhosa in discussions the teachers felt that the learners gained in both confidence and mathematical understanding. This study has demonstrated that using the learners’ and teachers’ home language unlocks doors to communication and spotlights mathematical reasoning, but there is still an urgency to encourage learners to become fluent in Mathematical English. It is important to note that a positive classroom climate is essential for learners to build confidence and to encourage them to attempt to formulate sentences in English - to start on the journey from informal to formal usage of language as advocated by Setati and Adler (2001:250). My main conclusion is that an intervention that develops exploratory talk by using language as a resource can improve learners’ mathematical reasoning. I wish to emphasise that I am not advocating teaching mathematics in isiXhosa only, but the research has shown the advantages of using the home language as a resource together with English in Eastern Cape multilingual mathematics classes. Learners need to be able to express themselves in English, written and spoken, in order to achieve mathematically. This study therefore shows that teachers can gauge their learners’ improvement in mathematical reasoning after an intervention that develops exploratory talk in class by using the home language as a resource.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Whale, Susan Gaye
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa , Code switching (Linguistics) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Blacks -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9469 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1669 , Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa , Code switching (Linguistics) -- South Africa , Education, Bilingual -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Blacks -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: South Africa is a complex multilingual country. In the majority of schools in the Eastern Cape, a province in South Africa, the teachers and learners share the same home language, isiXhosa, but teach and learn mathematics in English. The purpose of this study was to encourage teachers to use the home language as a resource to teach mathematics in multilingual classes. The study follows a mixed method design, using both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data were collected from a survey and poetry, which teachers crafted, in which they highlighted their perceptions about language in their lives. They also reflected on their practices and submitted pieces of contemplative writing. Quantitative data were collected from participating teachers who administered a pre-test to their learners as well as a post- test approximately nine months later after conducting an intervention. The results showed that where strategies, such as the implementation of exploratory talk and code switching which used language as a resource, had been introduced mathematical reasoning improved and classroom climate became more positive. The learners’ lack of confidence in being able to express their reasoning in English was prevalent throughout the reflective writing. By enabling learners to use isiXhosa in discussions the teachers felt that the learners gained in both confidence and mathematical understanding. This study has demonstrated that using the learners’ and teachers’ home language unlocks doors to communication and spotlights mathematical reasoning, but there is still an urgency to encourage learners to become fluent in Mathematical English. It is important to note that a positive classroom climate is essential for learners to build confidence and to encourage them to attempt to formulate sentences in English - to start on the journey from informal to formal usage of language as advocated by Setati and Adler (2001:250). My main conclusion is that an intervention that develops exploratory talk by using language as a resource can improve learners’ mathematical reasoning. I wish to emphasise that I am not advocating teaching mathematics in isiXhosa only, but the research has shown the advantages of using the home language as a resource together with English in Eastern Cape multilingual mathematics classes. Learners need to be able to express themselves in English, written and spoken, in order to achieve mathematically. This study therefore shows that teachers can gauge their learners’ improvement in mathematical reasoning after an intervention that develops exploratory talk in class by using the home language as a resource.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Using mobile information visualisation to support the analysis of telecommunication service ultilisation
- Authors: Twigg, Gianni Gurshwin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Telecommunication , Visualization , Technology -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10497 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020831
- Description: Telecommunication service utilisation (TSU) focuses on how customers make use of telecommunication services and can provide valuable information for decision making for improved customer service delivery. When a telecommunication service provider consults with customers, large amounts of static documentation on TSU data are compiled. Compiling this documentation for in-field investigation is manually intensive and the documentation does not effectively support decision making. Existing systems for visualising TSU data do not efficiently support in-field investigation of TSU and lack dynamic interaction. This highlights the need to investigate a solution to better support in-field investigation of TSU. This research followed a Design Science Research methodology to develop and evaluate a solution to solve the problem identified. The use of tablet devices for in-field investigation of TSU was identified as a suitable solution. Mobile information visualisation (MIV) techniques were investigated to determine appropriate display and interaction techniques for the visualisation of TSU data on a tablet device. An existing visualisation framework for TSU was identified and extended to incorporate touch-based interactions. Three service usage views were identified for visualising TSU, namely a Trend, Network and Detail Usage View. A Dashboard View was also identified to provide a quick reference view of the different views. A prototype called MobiTel was developed on a tablet device. MobiTel incorporated the identified information visualisation techniques. MobiTel was evaluated using an expert review and a user study to determine its usability and usefulness. The results indicated that MobiTel was perceived as being useful for in-field investigation and that the participants perceived the prototype to be easy to use and learn. The user study also indicated that the participants were satisfied with MobiTel. This research has determined that MIV techniques can be used for in-field investigation of TSU. Design recommendations were devised for designing an interactive mobile prototype for visualising service usage information. Future work will involve using map-based visualisation for visualising TSU data on different customer sites.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Twigg, Gianni Gurshwin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Telecommunication , Visualization , Technology -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10497 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020831
- Description: Telecommunication service utilisation (TSU) focuses on how customers make use of telecommunication services and can provide valuable information for decision making for improved customer service delivery. When a telecommunication service provider consults with customers, large amounts of static documentation on TSU data are compiled. Compiling this documentation for in-field investigation is manually intensive and the documentation does not effectively support decision making. Existing systems for visualising TSU data do not efficiently support in-field investigation of TSU and lack dynamic interaction. This highlights the need to investigate a solution to better support in-field investigation of TSU. This research followed a Design Science Research methodology to develop and evaluate a solution to solve the problem identified. The use of tablet devices for in-field investigation of TSU was identified as a suitable solution. Mobile information visualisation (MIV) techniques were investigated to determine appropriate display and interaction techniques for the visualisation of TSU data on a tablet device. An existing visualisation framework for TSU was identified and extended to incorporate touch-based interactions. Three service usage views were identified for visualising TSU, namely a Trend, Network and Detail Usage View. A Dashboard View was also identified to provide a quick reference view of the different views. A prototype called MobiTel was developed on a tablet device. MobiTel incorporated the identified information visualisation techniques. MobiTel was evaluated using an expert review and a user study to determine its usability and usefulness. The results indicated that MobiTel was perceived as being useful for in-field investigation and that the participants perceived the prototype to be easy to use and learn. The user study also indicated that the participants were satisfied with MobiTel. This research has determined that MIV techniques can be used for in-field investigation of TSU. Design recommendations were devised for designing an interactive mobile prototype for visualising service usage information. Future work will involve using map-based visualisation for visualising TSU data on different customer sites.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Value delivered by private game reserves in South Africa : a comparison of visitors' and managers' perceptions
- Authors: Theron, Elizna
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa , Ecotourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9374 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019980
- Description: The uniqueness of the wildlife and the luxurious nature of South African private game reserves could be seen as a valuable niche in the South African tourism market and for this reason make South Africa a desired destination. Due to complex visitor needs and demands regarding price, service, social connection, authenticity, quality or image, value perceptions will differ in terms of visitors’ experiences. If managers do not understand these value requirements, differences might exist between consumers’ and service providers’ perceptions of value. To maintain visitor satisfaction, loyalty and intention for return to the reserves, managers should continue to provide valued offerings and improve their visitors’ wildlife experience. This research investigated visitors’ perceptions of the value delivered by private game reserves in South Africa and compared these with reserve managers’ perceptions of the value delivered. The results of this research study could contribute to a better understanding of perceived value, which in turn could enhance the success of the private game reserves. The literature contextualised the South African private game reserve as part of wildlife tourism, the wildlife tourism offering and the characteristics of wildlife visitors. An overview of customer value, customer value models showing their development over time, and the conceptual framework of the current study was provided. The resulting conceptual model was used to evaluate managers’ and visitors’ perceptions of Quality, Monetary price, Behavioural price, Reputation, Emotional response, Social value and Novelty value delivered by South African private game reserves. The empirical data was collected by means of a survey, using two structured self-administered electronic questionnaires administered to the managers of, and the visitors to, private game reserves. One hundred and sixty two visitors and 30 managers participated in the survey. By performing exploratory factor analysis it was found that the seven value factors were consistent with the value dimensions reported in the literature. These were labelled as Quality, Emotional response, Monetary price, Reputation, Novelty value, Social value and Behavioural price. Most of managers’ perceptions of value provided exceeded visitors’ perceptions of value received. Both managers and visitors rated value items related to Emotional response highly. Considerably more managers (17 percent) thought that the reserve experience can be associated with good service, opposed to only 4 percent of visitors who perceived the service to be good. On the other hand, a larger proportion of visitors (29%) than the managers (20 percent) perceived the reserve experience as relaxing. Managers rated eleven of the thirteen game reserve attributes more positively than what the visitors did. Of these attributes, accommodation services, protection of the natural environment, game drives and service delivery, showed significant differences. It is recommended that South African private game reserve managers: • conduct market research to get a better understanding of what delights visitors. Research should be conducted on a regular basis to ensure management stays current with visitors’ changing needs; • determine whether the prices charged reflect the quality of the physical offerings, service delivery and the time and effort visitors spent to obtain the offering; • use the adventurous activities offered at the reserves as part of their promotional campaigns to attract adventure tourists; • train service delivery staff and game drive guides to educate visitors on the history, culture and eco-friendly practices related to their reserve; • always deliver superior service to ensure memorable wildlife experiences, value for money and exceed visitors’ expectations; • continue using websites, social media and magazines to inform the target market about the reserve offerings; and • stay in regular contact with visitors through social media, newsletters, blogs, follow up emails/calls or face to face discussions at the reserve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Theron, Elizna
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa , Ecotourism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9374 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019980
- Description: The uniqueness of the wildlife and the luxurious nature of South African private game reserves could be seen as a valuable niche in the South African tourism market and for this reason make South Africa a desired destination. Due to complex visitor needs and demands regarding price, service, social connection, authenticity, quality or image, value perceptions will differ in terms of visitors’ experiences. If managers do not understand these value requirements, differences might exist between consumers’ and service providers’ perceptions of value. To maintain visitor satisfaction, loyalty and intention for return to the reserves, managers should continue to provide valued offerings and improve their visitors’ wildlife experience. This research investigated visitors’ perceptions of the value delivered by private game reserves in South Africa and compared these with reserve managers’ perceptions of the value delivered. The results of this research study could contribute to a better understanding of perceived value, which in turn could enhance the success of the private game reserves. The literature contextualised the South African private game reserve as part of wildlife tourism, the wildlife tourism offering and the characteristics of wildlife visitors. An overview of customer value, customer value models showing their development over time, and the conceptual framework of the current study was provided. The resulting conceptual model was used to evaluate managers’ and visitors’ perceptions of Quality, Monetary price, Behavioural price, Reputation, Emotional response, Social value and Novelty value delivered by South African private game reserves. The empirical data was collected by means of a survey, using two structured self-administered electronic questionnaires administered to the managers of, and the visitors to, private game reserves. One hundred and sixty two visitors and 30 managers participated in the survey. By performing exploratory factor analysis it was found that the seven value factors were consistent with the value dimensions reported in the literature. These were labelled as Quality, Emotional response, Monetary price, Reputation, Novelty value, Social value and Behavioural price. Most of managers’ perceptions of value provided exceeded visitors’ perceptions of value received. Both managers and visitors rated value items related to Emotional response highly. Considerably more managers (17 percent) thought that the reserve experience can be associated with good service, opposed to only 4 percent of visitors who perceived the service to be good. On the other hand, a larger proportion of visitors (29%) than the managers (20 percent) perceived the reserve experience as relaxing. Managers rated eleven of the thirteen game reserve attributes more positively than what the visitors did. Of these attributes, accommodation services, protection of the natural environment, game drives and service delivery, showed significant differences. It is recommended that South African private game reserve managers: • conduct market research to get a better understanding of what delights visitors. Research should be conducted on a regular basis to ensure management stays current with visitors’ changing needs; • determine whether the prices charged reflect the quality of the physical offerings, service delivery and the time and effort visitors spent to obtain the offering; • use the adventurous activities offered at the reserves as part of their promotional campaigns to attract adventure tourists; • train service delivery staff and game drive guides to educate visitors on the history, culture and eco-friendly practices related to their reserve; • always deliver superior service to ensure memorable wildlife experiences, value for money and exceed visitors’ expectations; • continue using websites, social media and magazines to inform the target market about the reserve offerings; and • stay in regular contact with visitors through social media, newsletters, blogs, follow up emails/calls or face to face discussions at the reserve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Vapour phase dehydrogenation of cyclohexane on microstructured reactors
- Authors: Mpuhlu, Batsho
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Dehydrogenation , Cyclohexane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8661 , vital:26418
- Description: The work that is described in this thesis forms part of the research and development projects at InnoVenton: NMMU Institute of Chemical Technology in collaboration with Sasol Technologies. The broader view of the project was testing on the so-called “Small Production Platforms” (SPP’s). In particular the main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of micro-structuring on the heterogeneous catalysed, vapour-phase oxidative dehydrogenation of cyclohexane in the presence of air. Ground work studies were done to provide a proper comparison of the micro-structured reactor with a traditional fixed-bed reactor. These included evaluation of a proper vanadium pyrophosphate catalyst for the reaction, testing of reaction parameters for the oxidative dehydrogenation reaction on a fixed-bed reactor and lastly comparing the performance of the micro-structured reactor to that of the fixed-bed reactor Various vanadium pyrophosphate catalysts that were tested for activity included: bulk (VO)2P2O7, bulk (VO)2P2O7 promoted with Fe, (VO)2P2O7 supported on -Al2O3 and Fe promoted (VO)2P2O7 supported on -Al2O3. These catalysts showed significant differences in TOF, however it was not conclusive from the results whether these differences may be traced to increased activity for dehydrogenation for different catalysts since all reactions were run under conditions of oxygen deficiency. It is, however, clear that Fe promotion significantly increase activity, irrespective of the relative degrees of oxidative dehydrogenation and normal dehydrogenation. The Fe promoted catalyst was further tested for long term stability in-view of using it as the catalyst in the micro-structured reactor. These studies showed the catalyst to have a high degree of stability with minimal structural changes under the reaction conditions used. Various response surface models describing the variation in each of the cyclohexane conversion, cyclohexene selectivity, and benzene selectivity, respectively when changing reaction condition, were derived by means of multiple regression. To obtain some idea of the degree and nature of the normal dehydrogenation reaction, the amount of deficit oxygen was estimated from the measured results for cyclohexane conversion and cyclohexene and benzene selectivities. These estimated values were also modelled as described above. The regression models were used to interpret specific trends in the responses for the oxidative dehydrogenation of cyclohexane and account for the oxygen deficit in the system. The performance of a fixed bed tubular reactor (FBR) and micro-structured sandwich reactor (MSSR) were compared over an Fe promoted vanadium pyrophosphate. Reactor performance was evaluated by varying specific reaction conditions (temperature and space velocity). Subsequently the turn-over frequencies, conversion and selectivities from the two reactors were compared. The conversion achieved in the micro-structured reactor was observed to be significantly higher than that achieved in the fixed-bed reactor at all reaction parameters. This is despite the fact that the total amount of catalyst in the micro-structured reactor is approximately 5 times less than that used in the fixed bed reactor. In addition, the contact time (1/MHSV) in the micro-structured reactor is also significantly shorter than in the fixed-bed reactor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mpuhlu, Batsho
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Dehydrogenation , Cyclohexane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8661 , vital:26418
- Description: The work that is described in this thesis forms part of the research and development projects at InnoVenton: NMMU Institute of Chemical Technology in collaboration with Sasol Technologies. The broader view of the project was testing on the so-called “Small Production Platforms” (SPP’s). In particular the main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of micro-structuring on the heterogeneous catalysed, vapour-phase oxidative dehydrogenation of cyclohexane in the presence of air. Ground work studies were done to provide a proper comparison of the micro-structured reactor with a traditional fixed-bed reactor. These included evaluation of a proper vanadium pyrophosphate catalyst for the reaction, testing of reaction parameters for the oxidative dehydrogenation reaction on a fixed-bed reactor and lastly comparing the performance of the micro-structured reactor to that of the fixed-bed reactor Various vanadium pyrophosphate catalysts that were tested for activity included: bulk (VO)2P2O7, bulk (VO)2P2O7 promoted with Fe, (VO)2P2O7 supported on -Al2O3 and Fe promoted (VO)2P2O7 supported on -Al2O3. These catalysts showed significant differences in TOF, however it was not conclusive from the results whether these differences may be traced to increased activity for dehydrogenation for different catalysts since all reactions were run under conditions of oxygen deficiency. It is, however, clear that Fe promotion significantly increase activity, irrespective of the relative degrees of oxidative dehydrogenation and normal dehydrogenation. The Fe promoted catalyst was further tested for long term stability in-view of using it as the catalyst in the micro-structured reactor. These studies showed the catalyst to have a high degree of stability with minimal structural changes under the reaction conditions used. Various response surface models describing the variation in each of the cyclohexane conversion, cyclohexene selectivity, and benzene selectivity, respectively when changing reaction condition, were derived by means of multiple regression. To obtain some idea of the degree and nature of the normal dehydrogenation reaction, the amount of deficit oxygen was estimated from the measured results for cyclohexane conversion and cyclohexene and benzene selectivities. These estimated values were also modelled as described above. The regression models were used to interpret specific trends in the responses for the oxidative dehydrogenation of cyclohexane and account for the oxygen deficit in the system. The performance of a fixed bed tubular reactor (FBR) and micro-structured sandwich reactor (MSSR) were compared over an Fe promoted vanadium pyrophosphate. Reactor performance was evaluated by varying specific reaction conditions (temperature and space velocity). Subsequently the turn-over frequencies, conversion and selectivities from the two reactors were compared. The conversion achieved in the micro-structured reactor was observed to be significantly higher than that achieved in the fixed-bed reactor at all reaction parameters. This is despite the fact that the total amount of catalyst in the micro-structured reactor is approximately 5 times less than that used in the fixed bed reactor. In addition, the contact time (1/MHSV) in the micro-structured reactor is also significantly shorter than in the fixed-bed reactor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Videographic analysis of the Coelacanth, Latimeria Chalumnae, and associated habitats in the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Thornycroft, Rosanne Elizabeth
- Authors: Thornycroft, Rosanne Elizabeth
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Isimangaliso Wetland Park , Coelacanth , Coelacanth -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Habitat (Ecology) , Coelacanth -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Coelacanth -- Habitat -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005179 , Isimangaliso Wetland Park , Coelacanth , Coelacanth -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Habitat (Ecology) , Coelacanth -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Coelacanth -- Habitat -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: Videography is a valuable tool in biological and ecological studies. Using video footage obtained during previous coelacanth surveys, this thesis investigated coelacanths and their associated habitats in the submarine canyons of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. This thesis aimed to (1) describe the biological habitats within the submarine canyons, (2) determine coelacanth distribution within these habitats, and (3) assess the use of computer-aided identification to successfully identify individual coelacanths. Seven different habitat types were noted with the most distinctive being the canyon margins that consisted of dense agglomerations of gorgonians, wire and whip corals, and sponges. Results suggested that although substratum type has a great influence on invertebrate community structure in the canyons, depth is the principal factor. Coelacanths were associated with cave habitats within the steep rocky canyon walls. Habitat analyses allowed predictive classification tree models to be constructed. Depth, underlying percentage of rock, and percentage cover of gorgonians and sponges were the most important variables for determining coelacanth presence and absence. The overall correct classification rate for the model was estimated at 96.6%, correctly predicting coelacanth absence (> 99%) better than presence (60%). Because coelacanths have a unique spot pattern it was possible to quickly and accurately identify specific individuals photographically using computer-aided identification software. Without any manual intervention by an operator the software accurately identified between 56 and 92% of the individuals. Identification success increased to 100% if the operator could also manually select from other potential matching photographs. It was also shown that fish exhibiting a yaw angle not exceeding 60° could be accurately identified in photographs. Each of the sections presented in this thesis represent a possible step towards analysing coelacanth-related habitats, locating and then analysing new habitats. Steps include first locating a population and then performing a habitat analysis. Coelacanth location within the different habitats can then be determined allowing the development of predictive models to potentially identify possible locations of new populations. The final step is to identify individual fish within the population for assessing demographic parameters and population monitoring.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Thornycroft, Rosanne Elizabeth
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Isimangaliso Wetland Park , Coelacanth , Coelacanth -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Habitat (Ecology) , Coelacanth -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Coelacanth -- Habitat -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005179 , Isimangaliso Wetland Park , Coelacanth , Coelacanth -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Habitat (Ecology) , Coelacanth -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Coelacanth -- Habitat -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: Videography is a valuable tool in biological and ecological studies. Using video footage obtained during previous coelacanth surveys, this thesis investigated coelacanths and their associated habitats in the submarine canyons of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. This thesis aimed to (1) describe the biological habitats within the submarine canyons, (2) determine coelacanth distribution within these habitats, and (3) assess the use of computer-aided identification to successfully identify individual coelacanths. Seven different habitat types were noted with the most distinctive being the canyon margins that consisted of dense agglomerations of gorgonians, wire and whip corals, and sponges. Results suggested that although substratum type has a great influence on invertebrate community structure in the canyons, depth is the principal factor. Coelacanths were associated with cave habitats within the steep rocky canyon walls. Habitat analyses allowed predictive classification tree models to be constructed. Depth, underlying percentage of rock, and percentage cover of gorgonians and sponges were the most important variables for determining coelacanth presence and absence. The overall correct classification rate for the model was estimated at 96.6%, correctly predicting coelacanth absence (> 99%) better than presence (60%). Because coelacanths have a unique spot pattern it was possible to quickly and accurately identify specific individuals photographically using computer-aided identification software. Without any manual intervention by an operator the software accurately identified between 56 and 92% of the individuals. Identification success increased to 100% if the operator could also manually select from other potential matching photographs. It was also shown that fish exhibiting a yaw angle not exceeding 60° could be accurately identified in photographs. Each of the sections presented in this thesis represent a possible step towards analysing coelacanth-related habitats, locating and then analysing new habitats. Steps include first locating a population and then performing a habitat analysis. Coelacanth location within the different habitats can then be determined allowing the development of predictive models to potentially identify possible locations of new populations. The final step is to identify individual fish within the population for assessing demographic parameters and population monitoring.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Violence and the cultural logics of pain: representations of sexuality in the work of Nicholas Hlobo and Zanele Muholi
- Authors: Makhubu, Nomusa
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147814 , vital:38675 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1080/02560046.2012.723843
- Description: Nicholas Hlobo and Zanele Muholi have raised critical issues regarding sexual identity in patriarchal contexts since they premiered at the Michael Stevenson Gallery in 2005. Nicholas Hlobo, a sculptor and performance artist, and Zanele Muholi, a photographer and activist, explore different ways of representing sexuality – in particular, homosexuality. Hlobo investigates notions of masculinity and the practice of circumcision, while Muholi documents the existence of transgender and homosexuality in township spaces (her recent work expands to various other spaces). This article focuses on the roles that violence plays in the sexual politics represented in Hlobo and Muholi’s work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Makhubu, Nomusa
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147814 , vital:38675 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1080/02560046.2012.723843
- Description: Nicholas Hlobo and Zanele Muholi have raised critical issues regarding sexual identity in patriarchal contexts since they premiered at the Michael Stevenson Gallery in 2005. Nicholas Hlobo, a sculptor and performance artist, and Zanele Muholi, a photographer and activist, explore different ways of representing sexuality – in particular, homosexuality. Hlobo investigates notions of masculinity and the practice of circumcision, while Muholi documents the existence of transgender and homosexuality in township spaces (her recent work expands to various other spaces). This article focuses on the roles that violence plays in the sexual politics represented in Hlobo and Muholi’s work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Voices from the forest: celebrating nature and culture in Xhosaland
- Dold, Anthony P, Cocks, Michelle L
- Authors: Dold, Anthony P , Cocks, Michelle L
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141427 , vital:37971 , ISBN 9781431402991 , https://www.amazon.com/Voices-Forest-Celebrating-Culture-Xhosaland/dp/1431402990
- Description: The link between people and nature is explored in this fascinating book, revealing how plants, animals, and landscapes are profoundly reflected in South Africa’s Xhosa language, stories, poetry, religious rituals, healing practices, and everyday customs. While the South African landscape has for centuries been molded and manipulated by humans, the country and its plants and animals have in turn influenced South Africans’ cultural and spiritual development. Based on 10 years of research, it consists of unique photographs that portray how both contemporary rural and urban South Africans still find great value in nature. A fresh, positive approach to biodiversity conservation, this volume serves as a guide to sustainable practices in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dold, Anthony P , Cocks, Michelle L
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141427 , vital:37971 , ISBN 9781431402991 , https://www.amazon.com/Voices-Forest-Celebrating-Culture-Xhosaland/dp/1431402990
- Description: The link between people and nature is explored in this fascinating book, revealing how plants, animals, and landscapes are profoundly reflected in South Africa’s Xhosa language, stories, poetry, religious rituals, healing practices, and everyday customs. While the South African landscape has for centuries been molded and manipulated by humans, the country and its plants and animals have in turn influenced South Africans’ cultural and spiritual development. Based on 10 years of research, it consists of unique photographs that portray how both contemporary rural and urban South Africans still find great value in nature. A fresh, positive approach to biodiversity conservation, this volume serves as a guide to sustainable practices in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
VoIP : a corporate governance approach to avoid the risk of civil liability
- Authors: Gerber, Tian Johannes
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet telephony -- Security measures , Telecommunication policy -- South Africa , Computer network protocols -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9812 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016272
- Description: Since the deregulation of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in 2005, many South African organizations are now attempting to leverage its cost saving and competitive values. However, it has been recently cited that VoIP is one of the greatest new risks to organizations and this risk is cited to increase Information Security insurance premiums in the near future. Due to the dynamic nature of the VoIP technology, regulatory and legislative concerns such as lawful interception of communications and privacy may also contribute to business risk. In order to leverage value from the VoIP implementation, an organization should implement the technology with knowledge of the potential risk of civil liability. This is further highlighted by the King III Report which indicates that the Directors of an organization should be ultimately responsible for Corporate Governance and, therefore, IT Governance and Information Security Governance. The report goes further to say that any newly implemented technology, such as VoIP, should comply with all South African legislation and regulations. This responsibility encourages the practice of both due care and due diligence. However, recent trends exercised by Information Security professionals, responsible for drafting Information Security policies and related procedures, often neglect the regulatory requirements and choose to only implement international best practices with no consideration of the risk of civil liability. Although these best practice frameworks may inadvertently comply with existing local legislation, a chance of an oversight is possible. Oversights may not only result in criminal sanctions, but also civil action due to losses or damages suffered. With regard to implementing VoIP, good Corporate Governance could potentially be ensured through the use of both identified regulations and relevant international best practices. This dissertation aims to aid organizations in avoiding or at least mitigating the risk of civil liability to better leverage VoIP’s value, through good Corporate Governance practices. This should aid in the exercise of due care and due diligence when implementing VoIP as a means of conducting business communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gerber, Tian Johannes
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet telephony -- Security measures , Telecommunication policy -- South Africa , Computer network protocols -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9812 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016272
- Description: Since the deregulation of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in 2005, many South African organizations are now attempting to leverage its cost saving and competitive values. However, it has been recently cited that VoIP is one of the greatest new risks to organizations and this risk is cited to increase Information Security insurance premiums in the near future. Due to the dynamic nature of the VoIP technology, regulatory and legislative concerns such as lawful interception of communications and privacy may also contribute to business risk. In order to leverage value from the VoIP implementation, an organization should implement the technology with knowledge of the potential risk of civil liability. This is further highlighted by the King III Report which indicates that the Directors of an organization should be ultimately responsible for Corporate Governance and, therefore, IT Governance and Information Security Governance. The report goes further to say that any newly implemented technology, such as VoIP, should comply with all South African legislation and regulations. This responsibility encourages the practice of both due care and due diligence. However, recent trends exercised by Information Security professionals, responsible for drafting Information Security policies and related procedures, often neglect the regulatory requirements and choose to only implement international best practices with no consideration of the risk of civil liability. Although these best practice frameworks may inadvertently comply with existing local legislation, a chance of an oversight is possible. Oversights may not only result in criminal sanctions, but also civil action due to losses or damages suffered. With regard to implementing VoIP, good Corporate Governance could potentially be ensured through the use of both identified regulations and relevant international best practices. This dissertation aims to aid organizations in avoiding or at least mitigating the risk of civil liability to better leverage VoIP’s value, through good Corporate Governance practices. This should aid in the exercise of due care and due diligence when implementing VoIP as a means of conducting business communication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Vulindela!: opening the gates of journalism
- Authors: Schoon, Alette
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159528 , vital:40305 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC134094
- Description: A group of teenagers crowd together in a hall in Fingo Village, Grahamstown. They listen with rapt attention as one of them shares his anger at being short-changed in terms of his own future - teachers are absent for two out of every six school periods, compromising his chances of education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Schoon, Alette
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159528 , vital:40305 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC134094
- Description: A group of teenagers crowd together in a hall in Fingo Village, Grahamstown. They listen with rapt attention as one of them shares his anger at being short-changed in terms of his own future - teachers are absent for two out of every six school periods, compromising his chances of education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Vulnerability to violence : a comparative perspective of the immigrant business community in the townships of Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Shek, Mohammed Ahmed
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Immigrants , Immigrants -- Violence against -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9144 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018807
- Description: The research seeks to explore why women in Zimbabwe still face hindrances in accessing micro finance services and what can be done to meet their needs in a more holistic and effective way. Women play a crucial role in the economic development of their families and communities but are faced with certain obstacles that hinder them from performing their role effectively. Such hindrances as poverty, unemployment, low household income and societal discrimination. UNIFEM (1992) confirms that the majority of the world‟s poor have a predominantly female face and argues that women earn only 10 percent of world‟s income and own less than 10 percent of the world‟s property. African women have been characterised by the lack of empowerment caused by societal perceptions and negative cultural practice. In many cases of women rights violation it has been noted that this has been exacerbated by the over reliance on the male counterpart. Development practitioners have noted that micro finance as one of the strategies needed for women empowerment. Despite the concept having been practiced for at least 15 years now, women still face challenges in accessing micro finance services. There is need for Micro Finance Institutions to recognise the position of women in relation to men as actors in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Shek, Mohammed Ahmed
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Immigrants , Immigrants -- Violence against -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9144 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018807
- Description: The research seeks to explore why women in Zimbabwe still face hindrances in accessing micro finance services and what can be done to meet their needs in a more holistic and effective way. Women play a crucial role in the economic development of their families and communities but are faced with certain obstacles that hinder them from performing their role effectively. Such hindrances as poverty, unemployment, low household income and societal discrimination. UNIFEM (1992) confirms that the majority of the world‟s poor have a predominantly female face and argues that women earn only 10 percent of world‟s income and own less than 10 percent of the world‟s property. African women have been characterised by the lack of empowerment caused by societal perceptions and negative cultural practice. In many cases of women rights violation it has been noted that this has been exacerbated by the over reliance on the male counterpart. Development practitioners have noted that micro finance as one of the strategies needed for women empowerment. Despite the concept having been practiced for at least 15 years now, women still face challenges in accessing micro finance services. There is need for Micro Finance Institutions to recognise the position of women in relation to men as actors in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Waste services provided by community-based enterprises in the Ngombe Peri-Urban settlement area, Lusaka, Zambia
- Authors: Maninga, Mainess Kapaipi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Refuse disposal industry , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9835 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011560 , Refuse disposal industry , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Description: This qualitative study investigates Waste services provided by community-based enterprises in the Ngombe peri-urban settlement area - Lusaka, Zambia. The aim of the study was to identify and analyze the factors that contribute to illegal dumping of solid waste in the said peri-urban settlement area. The research objectives were as follows: To explore the capability of the community-based enterprises to effectively manage their enterprises in relation to the provision of solid waste services to the residents of the said settlement, To identify and evaluate the solid waste services provided by the community-based enterprises, and To make recommendations for the improvement of solid waste service provision and utilisation based on the findings of the study. The method of data collection for the above listed objectives was a literature study and focus group interviews. In order to achieve the said objectives of the study, the researcher opted for a qualitative research design – utilizing the contextual, descriptive, inductive and deductive approaches. The research population comprised the community-based enterprises involved in the provision of solid waste services in the Ngombe settlement area namely Kutwano and Tiyende Pamodzi Waste Enterprises. The purposive sample method was used for the selection of the focus group. The focus group discussions were captured by means of an audiotape and note-taking. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, within 24 hours of data capturing. Data analysis followed the five steps of Powell and Renner (2003, pp,1-6), namely: familiarization, identifying a thematic framework, categorization (coding or indexing) of data, identifying patterns and connections within and between categories (relationships), and interpretation (bringing it all together). The researcher adhered to the relevant ethical considerations and the principles of trustworthiness, namely: credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability throughout the study. In exploring the capability of the two community-based enterprises to effectively manage their enterprises in relation to the provision of solid waste services to the residents of the said settlement it was found that community-based enterprises do not have the capability to provide adequate solid waste services. This is due to inadequate leadership and entrepreneurship skills of the community-based enterprises management committee members, non-payment of solid waste collection fees by the majority of households and inadequate legal enforcement by the Lusaka City Council’s Waste Management Unit. In identifying and evaluating the solid waste services provided by the community-based enterprises it was found that solid waste services provided by community-based enterprises were inadequate. This is due to the type of equipment (push carts) used for primary solid waste collection that does not carter for other forms of solid waste like construction waste; inappropriate solid waste storage containers (25kg maize meal bags) which do not allow storage of solid waste in a sanitary manner (non-leak proof, accessible to rats, flies and cockroaches and rodents); restriction on the type of solid waste that community-based enterprises should collect (in relation to the specified solid waste storage container, 25kg maize meal bags) and the delay of secondary solid waste collection by Lusaka City Council’s Waste Management Unit. On the basis of the findings of the study, a number of recommendations are being made, which, if implemented effectively, should improve the provision and utilisation of solid waste services within the study area. Such an improvement should lead to a higher level of environmental cleanliness, and ultimately to better health standards of the people living within the area.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maninga, Mainess Kapaipi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Refuse disposal industry , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9835 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011560 , Refuse disposal industry , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Description: This qualitative study investigates Waste services provided by community-based enterprises in the Ngombe peri-urban settlement area - Lusaka, Zambia. The aim of the study was to identify and analyze the factors that contribute to illegal dumping of solid waste in the said peri-urban settlement area. The research objectives were as follows: To explore the capability of the community-based enterprises to effectively manage their enterprises in relation to the provision of solid waste services to the residents of the said settlement, To identify and evaluate the solid waste services provided by the community-based enterprises, and To make recommendations for the improvement of solid waste service provision and utilisation based on the findings of the study. The method of data collection for the above listed objectives was a literature study and focus group interviews. In order to achieve the said objectives of the study, the researcher opted for a qualitative research design – utilizing the contextual, descriptive, inductive and deductive approaches. The research population comprised the community-based enterprises involved in the provision of solid waste services in the Ngombe settlement area namely Kutwano and Tiyende Pamodzi Waste Enterprises. The purposive sample method was used for the selection of the focus group. The focus group discussions were captured by means of an audiotape and note-taking. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, within 24 hours of data capturing. Data analysis followed the five steps of Powell and Renner (2003, pp,1-6), namely: familiarization, identifying a thematic framework, categorization (coding or indexing) of data, identifying patterns and connections within and between categories (relationships), and interpretation (bringing it all together). The researcher adhered to the relevant ethical considerations and the principles of trustworthiness, namely: credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability throughout the study. In exploring the capability of the two community-based enterprises to effectively manage their enterprises in relation to the provision of solid waste services to the residents of the said settlement it was found that community-based enterprises do not have the capability to provide adequate solid waste services. This is due to inadequate leadership and entrepreneurship skills of the community-based enterprises management committee members, non-payment of solid waste collection fees by the majority of households and inadequate legal enforcement by the Lusaka City Council’s Waste Management Unit. In identifying and evaluating the solid waste services provided by the community-based enterprises it was found that solid waste services provided by community-based enterprises were inadequate. This is due to the type of equipment (push carts) used for primary solid waste collection that does not carter for other forms of solid waste like construction waste; inappropriate solid waste storage containers (25kg maize meal bags) which do not allow storage of solid waste in a sanitary manner (non-leak proof, accessible to rats, flies and cockroaches and rodents); restriction on the type of solid waste that community-based enterprises should collect (in relation to the specified solid waste storage container, 25kg maize meal bags) and the delay of secondary solid waste collection by Lusaka City Council’s Waste Management Unit. On the basis of the findings of the study, a number of recommendations are being made, which, if implemented effectively, should improve the provision and utilisation of solid waste services within the study area. Such an improvement should lead to a higher level of environmental cleanliness, and ultimately to better health standards of the people living within the area.
- Full Text:
Water and transformation in South Africa
- Authors: Palmer, Carolyn G
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Text
- Identifier: vital:578 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009525
- Description: Water and transformation in South Africa: in special memory of Kader Asmal and Francois Junod.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Palmer, Carolyn G
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Text
- Identifier: vital:578 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1009525
- Description: Water and transformation in South Africa: in special memory of Kader Asmal and Francois Junod.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Water quality dynamics in an experimental serial-use raceway and its effects on growth of South African abalone, Haliotis midae
- Authors: Naylor, Matthew Aubrey
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Abalones -- Effect of water quality on , Abalones -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Abalones -- Feeding and feeds , Abalones -- Growth , Fish culture -- Water reuse
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5335 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005181 , Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Abalones -- Effect of water quality on , Abalones -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Abalones -- Feeding and feeds , Abalones -- Growth , Fish culture -- Water reuse
- Description: An understanding of species specific water quality requirements is essential for efficient production of aquaculture products, an aspect not well documented for the land-based culture of the South African abalone, Haliotis midae. In order for the industry to remain competitive in international markets, efficient use of water supplies and the development of water reuse technology is needed. This study assessed the changes in water quality between tanks in a tiered serial-use raceway in relation to accumulated biomass and water flow and estimated the flow index (FI) (L h⁻¹ kg⁻¹) at which growth becomes significantly affected. The effect of dietary protein level, supplementation of pure oxygen and addition of sodium hydroxide (NaOH⁻) on water quality and fundamental production parameters in the serial-use raceways was also assessed. The serial-use raceways were used as a tool to create a range of water quality conditions at which the growth, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and condition factor (CF) of "cocktail" size (60 – 70 mm) H. midae could be monitored. The metabolic activity of the abalone resulted in a deterioration in water quality between tanks in series. pH (r² = 0.99; p < 0.001) and dissolved oxygen concentration (r² = 0.99; p < 0.001) were positively correlated with flow index (pH = 7.38 FI°·°² ; dissolved oxygen = 6.92 FI°·°⁴), while free ammonia nitrogen (FAN) (r² = 0.99, p < 0.001) and nitrite (NO²⁻ - N) (r² = 0.93, p < 0.001) were negatively correlated with flow index (FAN = 8.02 FI⁻°·⁷¹). Nitrite concentrations increased over time indicating colonisation of Nitrosomonas bacteria on the basket surfaces. A flow index of 7.2 – 9.0 L h⁻¹ kg⁻¹ was estimated as the minimum to avoid significant reductions in weight and shell length gain and increases in FCR values. Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) and FAN concentrations were significantly correlated to dietary protein (P) (t = 6.63, p < 0.0001 and t = 6.41, p < 0.0001, respectively) and flow index (t = 5.42, p < 0.0001 and t = 3.9, p < 0.0002, respectively) and could be estimated using the models TAN = 9.73 P – 110.3 log (FI), and FAN = 0.132 P – 1.10 log (FI). Mean FAN concentrations were 67 and 41 % lower in tanks fed a diet containing 22 and 26 % protein respectively, when compared to tanks fed a 33 % protein diet. Supplementation with pure oxygen (103 ± 8 % saturation) improved shell length gain (t = 3.45, p = 0.026) in abalone exposed to high FAN (2.43 ± 1.1 μg L⁻¹) and low pH (7.6 ± 0.13), relative to a treatment with no oxygen supplementation (92 ± 6 % saturation). Addition of a sodium hydroxide solution resulted in elevated mean pH in treatment raceways when compared to control raceways. The increased pH resulted in significantly higher weight gain (g abalone⁻¹) (F₁·₁₂ = 4.51; p = 0.055) and shell length gain (mm abalone⁻¹) (F₁·₁₂ = 4.56; p = 0.054) at an α-error level of < 5.5 %. In two trials, weight gain and shell length gain were significantly correlated to pH (p < 0.001), and multiple regression of pH, dissolved oxygen and FAN consistently revealed pH to be the best predictor of growth. It is therefore suggested that decreasing pH is the first limiting water quality variable for abalone in serial-use raceways. As a decrease in water pH is linked to respiration by the abalone and subsequent increase in dissolved carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration, future studies should examine the effects of CO₂ on H. midae metabolic rate, calcification rate and health. The results of this study will contribute toward our understanding of the specific water quality requirements for H. midae in commercial aquaculture systems, and influence the design and management procedures for abalone water reuse systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Naylor, Matthew Aubrey
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Abalones -- Effect of water quality on , Abalones -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Abalones -- Feeding and feeds , Abalones -- Growth , Fish culture -- Water reuse
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5335 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005181 , Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Abalones -- Effect of water quality on , Abalones -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Abalones -- Feeding and feeds , Abalones -- Growth , Fish culture -- Water reuse
- Description: An understanding of species specific water quality requirements is essential for efficient production of aquaculture products, an aspect not well documented for the land-based culture of the South African abalone, Haliotis midae. In order for the industry to remain competitive in international markets, efficient use of water supplies and the development of water reuse technology is needed. This study assessed the changes in water quality between tanks in a tiered serial-use raceway in relation to accumulated biomass and water flow and estimated the flow index (FI) (L h⁻¹ kg⁻¹) at which growth becomes significantly affected. The effect of dietary protein level, supplementation of pure oxygen and addition of sodium hydroxide (NaOH⁻) on water quality and fundamental production parameters in the serial-use raceways was also assessed. The serial-use raceways were used as a tool to create a range of water quality conditions at which the growth, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and condition factor (CF) of "cocktail" size (60 – 70 mm) H. midae could be monitored. The metabolic activity of the abalone resulted in a deterioration in water quality between tanks in series. pH (r² = 0.99; p < 0.001) and dissolved oxygen concentration (r² = 0.99; p < 0.001) were positively correlated with flow index (pH = 7.38 FI°·°² ; dissolved oxygen = 6.92 FI°·°⁴), while free ammonia nitrogen (FAN) (r² = 0.99, p < 0.001) and nitrite (NO²⁻ - N) (r² = 0.93, p < 0.001) were negatively correlated with flow index (FAN = 8.02 FI⁻°·⁷¹). Nitrite concentrations increased over time indicating colonisation of Nitrosomonas bacteria on the basket surfaces. A flow index of 7.2 – 9.0 L h⁻¹ kg⁻¹ was estimated as the minimum to avoid significant reductions in weight and shell length gain and increases in FCR values. Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) and FAN concentrations were significantly correlated to dietary protein (P) (t = 6.63, p < 0.0001 and t = 6.41, p < 0.0001, respectively) and flow index (t = 5.42, p < 0.0001 and t = 3.9, p < 0.0002, respectively) and could be estimated using the models TAN = 9.73 P – 110.3 log (FI), and FAN = 0.132 P – 1.10 log (FI). Mean FAN concentrations were 67 and 41 % lower in tanks fed a diet containing 22 and 26 % protein respectively, when compared to tanks fed a 33 % protein diet. Supplementation with pure oxygen (103 ± 8 % saturation) improved shell length gain (t = 3.45, p = 0.026) in abalone exposed to high FAN (2.43 ± 1.1 μg L⁻¹) and low pH (7.6 ± 0.13), relative to a treatment with no oxygen supplementation (92 ± 6 % saturation). Addition of a sodium hydroxide solution resulted in elevated mean pH in treatment raceways when compared to control raceways. The increased pH resulted in significantly higher weight gain (g abalone⁻¹) (F₁·₁₂ = 4.51; p = 0.055) and shell length gain (mm abalone⁻¹) (F₁·₁₂ = 4.56; p = 0.054) at an α-error level of < 5.5 %. In two trials, weight gain and shell length gain were significantly correlated to pH (p < 0.001), and multiple regression of pH, dissolved oxygen and FAN consistently revealed pH to be the best predictor of growth. It is therefore suggested that decreasing pH is the first limiting water quality variable for abalone in serial-use raceways. As a decrease in water pH is linked to respiration by the abalone and subsequent increase in dissolved carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration, future studies should examine the effects of CO₂ on H. midae metabolic rate, calcification rate and health. The results of this study will contribute toward our understanding of the specific water quality requirements for H. midae in commercial aquaculture systems, and influence the design and management procedures for abalone water reuse systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Water service delivery for improved quality of life in the Mbizana Local Municipal
- Authors: Mpange, Zolisa Bavuyise
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9146 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018891
- Description: This study deals with water service delivery for improved quality of life in the Mbizana Local Municipality. The study sets out to determine how the inner workings of water service delivery work in the Mbizana Local Municipality, situated in the Eastern Cape, and how this should function in terms of South African legislation. The objectives of the study are to understand the current state of water service delivery in the Mbizana Local Municipality, finding out information about South African legislation regarding the ideal state of water service delivery, and recommending development programmes to improve water service delivery. This study is about understanding trends in the body of scientific knowledge or literature, and studying (as objects) the ideas and writings of other scholars. No empirical study was conducted. The research methodology for this study is descriptive, with data sourced from available literature. The findings in this study indicate that backlogs for water service delivery remain high in the Mbizana Local Municipality. Regrettably, the situation has worsened since 2004; backlogs have shifted from 45 percent to 94 percent of households with no access to tap water. A number of normative criteria to deal with the research problem were extracted from available literature, from which conclusions were drawn and recommendations made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mpange, Zolisa Bavuyise
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9146 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018891
- Description: This study deals with water service delivery for improved quality of life in the Mbizana Local Municipality. The study sets out to determine how the inner workings of water service delivery work in the Mbizana Local Municipality, situated in the Eastern Cape, and how this should function in terms of South African legislation. The objectives of the study are to understand the current state of water service delivery in the Mbizana Local Municipality, finding out information about South African legislation regarding the ideal state of water service delivery, and recommending development programmes to improve water service delivery. This study is about understanding trends in the body of scientific knowledge or literature, and studying (as objects) the ideas and writings of other scholars. No empirical study was conducted. The research methodology for this study is descriptive, with data sourced from available literature. The findings in this study indicate that backlogs for water service delivery remain high in the Mbizana Local Municipality. Regrettably, the situation has worsened since 2004; backlogs have shifted from 45 percent to 94 percent of households with no access to tap water. A number of normative criteria to deal with the research problem were extracted from available literature, from which conclusions were drawn and recommendations made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Web-based visualisation techniques for reporting zoonotic outbreaks
- Authors: Ncube, Sinini Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Zoonoses -- Reporting , Communicable diseases -- Reporting , Communication in medicine , Medical telematics , Internet , Information visualization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4664 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006672 , Zoonoses -- Reporting , Communicable diseases -- Reporting , Communication in medicine , Medical telematics , Internet , Information visualization
- Description: Zoonotic diseases are diseases that are transmitted from animals or vectors to humans and vice versa. The public together with veterinarian authorities should readily access disease information as it is vital in rapidly controlling resultant zoonotic outbreak threats through improved awareness. Currently, the reporting of disease information in South Africa is predominantly limited to traditional methods of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) like faxes, monthly newspaper reports, radios, phones and televisions. Although these are effective ways of communication, their disadvantage is that the information that most of them offer can only be accessed at specific times during a crisis. New technologies like the internet have become the most efficient way of distributing information in near-real-time. Many developed countries have used web-based reporting platforms to deliver timely information through temporal and geographic visualisation techniques. There has been an attempt in the use of web-based reporting in South Africa but most of these sites are characterised by heavy text which makes them time consuming to use or maintain. As a result most sites have not been updated or have ceased to exist because of the work load involved. The success of web reporting mechanisms in developed countries offers evidence that web-based reporting systems when appropriately visualised can improve the easy understanding of information and efficiency in the analysis of that data. In this thesis, a web-based reporting prototype was proposed after gathering information from different sources: literature related to disease reporting and the visualisation of infectious diseases; the exploration of the currently deployed web systems; and the investigation of user requirements from relevant parties. The proposed prototype system was then developed using Adobe Flash tools, Java and MySQL languages. A focus group then reviewed the developed system to ascertain that the relevant requirements had been incorporated and to obtain additional ideas about the system. This led to the proposal of a new prototype system that can be used by the authorities concerned as a plan to develop a fully functional disease reporting system for South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ncube, Sinini Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Zoonoses -- Reporting , Communicable diseases -- Reporting , Communication in medicine , Medical telematics , Internet , Information visualization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4664 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006672 , Zoonoses -- Reporting , Communicable diseases -- Reporting , Communication in medicine , Medical telematics , Internet , Information visualization
- Description: Zoonotic diseases are diseases that are transmitted from animals or vectors to humans and vice versa. The public together with veterinarian authorities should readily access disease information as it is vital in rapidly controlling resultant zoonotic outbreak threats through improved awareness. Currently, the reporting of disease information in South Africa is predominantly limited to traditional methods of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) like faxes, monthly newspaper reports, radios, phones and televisions. Although these are effective ways of communication, their disadvantage is that the information that most of them offer can only be accessed at specific times during a crisis. New technologies like the internet have become the most efficient way of distributing information in near-real-time. Many developed countries have used web-based reporting platforms to deliver timely information through temporal and geographic visualisation techniques. There has been an attempt in the use of web-based reporting in South Africa but most of these sites are characterised by heavy text which makes them time consuming to use or maintain. As a result most sites have not been updated or have ceased to exist because of the work load involved. The success of web reporting mechanisms in developed countries offers evidence that web-based reporting systems when appropriately visualised can improve the easy understanding of information and efficiency in the analysis of that data. In this thesis, a web-based reporting prototype was proposed after gathering information from different sources: literature related to disease reporting and the visualisation of infectious diseases; the exploration of the currently deployed web systems; and the investigation of user requirements from relevant parties. The proposed prototype system was then developed using Adobe Flash tools, Java and MySQL languages. A focus group then reviewed the developed system to ascertain that the relevant requirements had been incorporated and to obtain additional ideas about the system. This led to the proposal of a new prototype system that can be used by the authorities concerned as a plan to develop a fully functional disease reporting system for South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Welcome Address of the Vice‐Chancellor of Rhodes University, Dr Saleem Badat, to First‐Year students
- Authors: Badat, Saleem
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: vital:7592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006583
- Description: From introduction: Our first purpose is to produce knowledge, so that we can better understand our natural and social worlds and also enrich our scientific and cultural heritage. The second purpose of a university is to disseminate knowledge and to develop critical and creative minds. Our goals, yours and ours, must be for you to think imaginatively, ‘effectively and critically;’ to ‘achieve depth in some field of knowledge;’ to appreciate how we ‘gain knowledge and understanding of the universe, of society, and of ourselves;’ to have ‘a broad knowledge of other cultures and other times;’ to critique ideas and views and construct alternatives, and to communicate cogently, orally and in writing. Our final purpose as a university is to undertake community engagement, whether this is as part of academic courses or your voluntary participation in community projects organized by our Community Engagement Office.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Welcome Address of the Vice‐Chancellor of Rhodes University, Dr Saleem Badat, to First‐Year students
- Authors: Badat, Saleem
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: vital:7592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006583
- Description: From introduction: Our first purpose is to produce knowledge, so that we can better understand our natural and social worlds and also enrich our scientific and cultural heritage. The second purpose of a university is to disseminate knowledge and to develop critical and creative minds. Our goals, yours and ours, must be for you to think imaginatively, ‘effectively and critically;’ to ‘achieve depth in some field of knowledge;’ to appreciate how we ‘gain knowledge and understanding of the universe, of society, and of ourselves;’ to have ‘a broad knowledge of other cultures and other times;’ to critique ideas and views and construct alternatives, and to communicate cogently, orally and in writing. Our final purpose as a university is to undertake community engagement, whether this is as part of academic courses or your voluntary participation in community projects organized by our Community Engagement Office.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
West meets East in Grahamstown: participatory journalism
- Authors: Nyathi, Sihle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/454976 , vital:75392 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC134092
- Description: If one was to write about the great potential of community broadcasting in southern Africa, the story would not be complete if one did not tell the story of how one afternoon in 2010, the small city of Grahamstown stood still in order to debate its proposed name change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nyathi, Sihle
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/454976 , vital:75392 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC134092
- Description: If one was to write about the great potential of community broadcasting in southern Africa, the story would not be complete if one did not tell the story of how one afternoon in 2010, the small city of Grahamstown stood still in order to debate its proposed name change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Western alumnae influencing the world
- Authors: Steyaert, Marcia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nyokong, Tebello
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:7168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006069 , Nyokong, Tebello
- Description: In September 2011, IT News Africa, named two Western alumnae, Uche Eze, HBA'06, and Tebello Nyokong, PhD1987 (Chemistry) in their list of top 10 most influential women in science and technology in Africa. Nyokong is a professor of medicinal chemistry and nanotechnology at Rhodes University and is recognized as one of the top three publishing scientists in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Steyaert, Marcia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nyokong, Tebello
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:7168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006069 , Nyokong, Tebello
- Description: In September 2011, IT News Africa, named two Western alumnae, Uche Eze, HBA'06, and Tebello Nyokong, PhD1987 (Chemistry) in their list of top 10 most influential women in science and technology in Africa. Nyokong is a professor of medicinal chemistry and nanotechnology at Rhodes University and is recognized as one of the top three publishing scientists in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
What girls could and should become: an analysis of how the print media portray career opportunities for young women
- Authors: Matomela, Nwabisa Dineo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipacility , Young women -- Press coverage , Young women -- Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8419 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014076
- Description: This treatise investigates the representation of career opportunities for young girls as portrayed in three English-medium newspapers published in the Nelson Mandela Bay in 2010.While there have been numerous researches on the representation of women in the media, studies on career opportunities for young girls have yet to be conducted. Previous studies have established that girls were socialized to occupy nurturing roles in society: through parents, schools and social institutions like churches were chief socialization instruments. The use of language and rhetoric in the media often reiterates this socialization. Due to the power of the media to influence perceptions, this research reflects on the messages obtained by readers of the publications. The research is important because it aims to identify the trends of representation of career and life opportunities for girls in: The Herald, the Weekend Post and La Femme newspapers. A pilot study of articles on women and young girls was completed; this was followed by a main study. A content analysis of articles only on women and girls was conducted; whilst articles on young boys and men were excluded from this research, as its main focus was on women. The theoretical frameworks applied were the theories of journalism and feminism to determine the nature of representation. While the media organisations operate solely as a business, whose interest is to make profit, they have the fundamental responsibility of promoting values, particularly in South Africa. Under the leadership of the ANC-led government, plans have been executed to promote a 50/50 representation in government. Also, the participation of women in the private sector has improved through the requirements of the policy of Black Economic Empowerment, which aims to redress the wrongs of the past. This project has established that although the world has embraced feminism and the equality of women and men, much still needs to be done to reinforce these ideals, especially in the socialization of children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Matomela, Nwabisa Dineo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Stereotypes (Social psychology) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipacility , Young women -- Press coverage , Young women -- Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8419 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014076
- Description: This treatise investigates the representation of career opportunities for young girls as portrayed in three English-medium newspapers published in the Nelson Mandela Bay in 2010.While there have been numerous researches on the representation of women in the media, studies on career opportunities for young girls have yet to be conducted. Previous studies have established that girls were socialized to occupy nurturing roles in society: through parents, schools and social institutions like churches were chief socialization instruments. The use of language and rhetoric in the media often reiterates this socialization. Due to the power of the media to influence perceptions, this research reflects on the messages obtained by readers of the publications. The research is important because it aims to identify the trends of representation of career and life opportunities for girls in: The Herald, the Weekend Post and La Femme newspapers. A pilot study of articles on women and young girls was completed; this was followed by a main study. A content analysis of articles only on women and girls was conducted; whilst articles on young boys and men were excluded from this research, as its main focus was on women. The theoretical frameworks applied were the theories of journalism and feminism to determine the nature of representation. While the media organisations operate solely as a business, whose interest is to make profit, they have the fundamental responsibility of promoting values, particularly in South Africa. Under the leadership of the ANC-led government, plans have been executed to promote a 50/50 representation in government. Also, the participation of women in the private sector has improved through the requirements of the policy of Black Economic Empowerment, which aims to redress the wrongs of the past. This project has established that although the world has embraced feminism and the equality of women and men, much still needs to be done to reinforce these ideals, especially in the socialization of children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
What's been built in twenty years?: SADC and Southern Africa's political and regional security culture
- Authors: Bischoff, Paul, 1954-
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/161498 , vital:40633
- Description: The sense of region in Southern Africa is based on nationalism and its struggles for national liberation. Unusually, the norms of smaller states initially shaped the region's scope and culture of interaction. First and foremost, cooperation happened in the area of security, an initial focus being to uphold the independence and sovereignty of the state in the face of challenges from apartheid South Africa. As such, rather atypically, intergovernmental security cooperation preceded broad based economic cooperation. This has meant that security and development have remained largely de-linked and this has helped discourage implementing a society or human rights centred approach to security. Cooperation has been made more difficult by disparate political systems with divergent values, cultures, agendas and sensibilities. As such, regionalism reinforces nationalism to the exclusion of development or wider notions of political and social security. The region amounts to a security regime with only a patchy record in advancing security. Therefore, in the face of developmental challenges and unless a degree of strategic coherence along political and policy fronts is reached, after 20 years of SADC the endeavour to institutionalise security in conventional state-centred ways amounts to a scenario of diminishing returns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Bischoff, Paul, 1954-
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/161498 , vital:40633
- Description: The sense of region in Southern Africa is based on nationalism and its struggles for national liberation. Unusually, the norms of smaller states initially shaped the region's scope and culture of interaction. First and foremost, cooperation happened in the area of security, an initial focus being to uphold the independence and sovereignty of the state in the face of challenges from apartheid South Africa. As such, rather atypically, intergovernmental security cooperation preceded broad based economic cooperation. This has meant that security and development have remained largely de-linked and this has helped discourage implementing a society or human rights centred approach to security. Cooperation has been made more difficult by disparate political systems with divergent values, cultures, agendas and sensibilities. As such, regionalism reinforces nationalism to the exclusion of development or wider notions of political and social security. The region amounts to a security regime with only a patchy record in advancing security. Therefore, in the face of developmental challenges and unless a degree of strategic coherence along political and policy fronts is reached, after 20 years of SADC the endeavour to institutionalise security in conventional state-centred ways amounts to a scenario of diminishing returns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012