Educators’ views on the effectiveness of alternatives to corporal punishment to maintain discipline: a case of four high schools in the O.R. Tambo District
- Kassim, Abdul Fatau, Pylman, N J
- Authors: Kassim, Abdul Fatau , Pylman, N J
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11329 , vital:39060
- Description: The purpose of this study is to explore educators’ views on the effectiveness of alternatives to corporal punishment to maintain discipline in selected high schools in the O.R. Tambo District. Corporal punishment has been outlawed in all South African schools through the South African Schools Act and was replaced by alternatives to corporal punishment. The objectives of this research were to determine educators’ understanding of alternatives to corporal punishment; the interface between alternatives to corporal punishment and learner behaviour; alternatives to corporal punishment in relation to effective teaching and learning and the barriers that educators experience with the implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment. This research study is fundamentally placed within two schools of thought, namely, Thorndike’s traditional behaviour modification theory and Roger’s diffusion of innovations theory. This study is a multiple-case study located within the interpretivist paradigm, and qualitative in nature. Purposive sampling was used to sample four secondary schools in the O.R. Tambo districts. Twelve (12) participants comprising four principals, four teachers and four SMT members were purposively selected from the four schools. In depth semi-structured interviews and document reviews were used as data generating instruments. Thematic analysis was used to analyse taperecorded data obtained from the semi-structured interviews and document reviews. Findings revealed that there seems to be a common understanding amongst participants around the issue of alternatives to corporal punishment. The findings indicated that participants are aware of the different strategies that can be used to discipline learners without causing physical pain or a violation of their rights. The second finding noted that alternatives to corporal punishment did not serve the purpose which it was intended to. This view points to the fact that learners do not take alternatives to corporal punishment seriously and as such do not lead to improved discipline and behaviour amongst learners. The third finding also revealed that the implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment does not contribute to effective teaching and learning as well as the academic performance in the classroom, because learners frequently absent themselves and are also bunking classes which leads to poor academic performance. It was also claimed that teaching and learning is not all that effective as learners do not respect educators anymore and as such also fail to v complete homework and assignments on a regular basis. The final finding alluded to the fact that insufficient orientation and lack of training on alternative methods of discipline by the Department of Education made it extremely difficult for teachers to implement and administer alternatives to corporal punishment in schools. Given the aforementioned findings, it can be concluded that alternatives to corporal are mainly viewed as ineffective. Furthermore, findings from this study also revealed that educators have not adopted alternatives to corporal punishment, which is in line with Rogers’ theory who aptly states that any new idea or innovation can either be adopted or rejected by social groups. In addition is also seems as if educators have as yet not undergone a change in behaviour in line with Thorndike’s traditional behaviour modification theory, which further hinders the successful implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kassim, Abdul Fatau , Pylman, N J
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: School discipline -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11329 , vital:39060
- Description: The purpose of this study is to explore educators’ views on the effectiveness of alternatives to corporal punishment to maintain discipline in selected high schools in the O.R. Tambo District. Corporal punishment has been outlawed in all South African schools through the South African Schools Act and was replaced by alternatives to corporal punishment. The objectives of this research were to determine educators’ understanding of alternatives to corporal punishment; the interface between alternatives to corporal punishment and learner behaviour; alternatives to corporal punishment in relation to effective teaching and learning and the barriers that educators experience with the implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment. This research study is fundamentally placed within two schools of thought, namely, Thorndike’s traditional behaviour modification theory and Roger’s diffusion of innovations theory. This study is a multiple-case study located within the interpretivist paradigm, and qualitative in nature. Purposive sampling was used to sample four secondary schools in the O.R. Tambo districts. Twelve (12) participants comprising four principals, four teachers and four SMT members were purposively selected from the four schools. In depth semi-structured interviews and document reviews were used as data generating instruments. Thematic analysis was used to analyse taperecorded data obtained from the semi-structured interviews and document reviews. Findings revealed that there seems to be a common understanding amongst participants around the issue of alternatives to corporal punishment. The findings indicated that participants are aware of the different strategies that can be used to discipline learners without causing physical pain or a violation of their rights. The second finding noted that alternatives to corporal punishment did not serve the purpose which it was intended to. This view points to the fact that learners do not take alternatives to corporal punishment seriously and as such do not lead to improved discipline and behaviour amongst learners. The third finding also revealed that the implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment does not contribute to effective teaching and learning as well as the academic performance in the classroom, because learners frequently absent themselves and are also bunking classes which leads to poor academic performance. It was also claimed that teaching and learning is not all that effective as learners do not respect educators anymore and as such also fail to v complete homework and assignments on a regular basis. The final finding alluded to the fact that insufficient orientation and lack of training on alternative methods of discipline by the Department of Education made it extremely difficult for teachers to implement and administer alternatives to corporal punishment in schools. Given the aforementioned findings, it can be concluded that alternatives to corporal are mainly viewed as ineffective. Furthermore, findings from this study also revealed that educators have not adopted alternatives to corporal punishment, which is in line with Rogers’ theory who aptly states that any new idea or innovation can either be adopted or rejected by social groups. In addition is also seems as if educators have as yet not undergone a change in behaviour in line with Thorndike’s traditional behaviour modification theory, which further hinders the successful implementation of alternatives to corporal punishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effect of the nature of nanoparticles on the photophysicochemical properties and photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy of phthalocyanines
- Authors: Magadla, Aviwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Phthalocyanines , Anti-infective agents -- Therapeutic use , Photochemotherapy , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123107 , vital:35406
- Description: In this work, the syntheses and characterisation of Zn monocaffeic acid tri–tert–butyl phthalocyanine (1), Zn monocarboxyphenoxy tri– tert–butylphenoxyl phthalocyanine (2), tetrakis phenoxy N,N-dimethyl-4-(methylimino) phthalocyanine indium (III) chloride (3) and tetrakis N,N-dimethyl-4-(methylimino) phthalocyanine indium (III) chloride (5) are presented. Complexes 3 and 5 were further quartenised with 1,3- propanesultone to form corresponding complexes (4) and (6), respectively. Complexes 1 and 2 were covalently linked to amino functionalised nanoparticles (NPs). Complexes 3, 4, 5 and 6 where linked to oleic acid/oleylamine capped (OLA/OLM) silver-iron dimers (Ag-Fe3O4 OLA/OLM) and silver-iron core shell (Ag@Fe3O4 OLA/OLM) NPs via interaction between the nanoparticles and the imino group on the phthalocyanines. The phthalocyanine-NP conjugates afforded an increase in triplet quantum yields with a corresponding decrease in fluorescence quantum yield as compared to the phthalocyanine complexes alone. Complexes 3, 4 and their conjugates were then used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy on E. coli. The zwitterionic photosensitiser 4 and its conjugates showed better efficiency for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy compared to their neutral counterparts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Magadla, Aviwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Phthalocyanines , Anti-infective agents -- Therapeutic use , Photochemotherapy , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123107 , vital:35406
- Description: In this work, the syntheses and characterisation of Zn monocaffeic acid tri–tert–butyl phthalocyanine (1), Zn monocarboxyphenoxy tri– tert–butylphenoxyl phthalocyanine (2), tetrakis phenoxy N,N-dimethyl-4-(methylimino) phthalocyanine indium (III) chloride (3) and tetrakis N,N-dimethyl-4-(methylimino) phthalocyanine indium (III) chloride (5) are presented. Complexes 3 and 5 were further quartenised with 1,3- propanesultone to form corresponding complexes (4) and (6), respectively. Complexes 1 and 2 were covalently linked to amino functionalised nanoparticles (NPs). Complexes 3, 4, 5 and 6 where linked to oleic acid/oleylamine capped (OLA/OLM) silver-iron dimers (Ag-Fe3O4 OLA/OLM) and silver-iron core shell (Ag@Fe3O4 OLA/OLM) NPs via interaction between the nanoparticles and the imino group on the phthalocyanines. The phthalocyanine-NP conjugates afforded an increase in triplet quantum yields with a corresponding decrease in fluorescence quantum yield as compared to the phthalocyanine complexes alone. Complexes 3, 4 and their conjugates were then used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy on E. coli. The zwitterionic photosensitiser 4 and its conjugates showed better efficiency for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy compared to their neutral counterparts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effectiveness of different interventions to reduce occupational sitting among office administrators at Rhodes University
- Authors: Malesa, Thato
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Standing position , Sedentary behavior , Work environment , Employee health promotion , Office furniture -- Design , Industrial hygiene , Employees -- Health risk assessment , Human engineering , Compliance
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166403 , vital:41360
- Description: Background: Sitting for prolonged periods is common in the working environment. Office workers are exposed to long periods of sitting time at work. Research has reported associations between prolonged sitting and negative health implications. As such studies have proposed different interventions aimed at reducing sitting times in the workplace. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two different interventions, physical intervention (sit-stand worktables) and personal intervention (instruction to stretch) on compliance and reducing occupational sitting behaviour. The study also aimed to investigate the effectiveness of interventions in improving or impairing mood. Methods: The study took the form of a fieldbased study atRhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa. Fifteen full–time office workers in different divisions participated in the study. Participants were randomly allocated to either the physical or personal intervention group. In both intervention groups, partic ipants were prompted to stand for five minutes every hour during the workday to either work in a standing position or perform stretches. Over the course of the experiment, desk occupancy, sitting/standing time and mood effect were recorded in both intervention groups Both intervention groups were monitored for a period of three months (58 days). Results: The study found that the physical intervention group was an effective approach to reduce prolonged sitting in the workplace in comparison to the personal intervention group. Over the course of the experiment, there was sustain usage of interventions in both groups, however, in the physical intervention group desk usage decreased overtime. The findings of the study also show that some participants were more compliant with the study procedures than others. It was also found that mood improved upon introducing interventions in the workplace. However, with the outcomes of the results, the study acknowledges that several factors emerged which are likely to impact compliance, which future studies may investigate. Conclusion: Although sit-stand worktables are expensive, it seems like introducing them was successful in reducing sitting time and changing sitting behaviour in comparison to an intervention that instruct s individuals to stand up and stretch.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Malesa, Thato
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Standing position , Sedentary behavior , Work environment , Employee health promotion , Office furniture -- Design , Industrial hygiene , Employees -- Health risk assessment , Human engineering , Compliance
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166403 , vital:41360
- Description: Background: Sitting for prolonged periods is common in the working environment. Office workers are exposed to long periods of sitting time at work. Research has reported associations between prolonged sitting and negative health implications. As such studies have proposed different interventions aimed at reducing sitting times in the workplace. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two different interventions, physical intervention (sit-stand worktables) and personal intervention (instruction to stretch) on compliance and reducing occupational sitting behaviour. The study also aimed to investigate the effectiveness of interventions in improving or impairing mood. Methods: The study took the form of a fieldbased study atRhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa. Fifteen full–time office workers in different divisions participated in the study. Participants were randomly allocated to either the physical or personal intervention group. In both intervention groups, partic ipants were prompted to stand for five minutes every hour during the workday to either work in a standing position or perform stretches. Over the course of the experiment, desk occupancy, sitting/standing time and mood effect were recorded in both intervention groups Both intervention groups were monitored for a period of three months (58 days). Results: The study found that the physical intervention group was an effective approach to reduce prolonged sitting in the workplace in comparison to the personal intervention group. Over the course of the experiment, there was sustain usage of interventions in both groups, however, in the physical intervention group desk usage decreased overtime. The findings of the study also show that some participants were more compliant with the study procedures than others. It was also found that mood improved upon introducing interventions in the workplace. However, with the outcomes of the results, the study acknowledges that several factors emerged which are likely to impact compliance, which future studies may investigate. Conclusion: Although sit-stand worktables are expensive, it seems like introducing them was successful in reducing sitting time and changing sitting behaviour in comparison to an intervention that instruct s individuals to stand up and stretch.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme
- Authors: Greyling, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical fitness--Soccer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50795 , vital:42701
- Description: Background: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide with an estimated 270 million people involved in the sport. Soccer is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires physical capabilities such as speed, agility, strength, power, aerobic and anaerobic fitness in addition to technical proficiency. Most goals are preceded by a linear sprint, jump or change of direction which is why the ability to perform fast powerful movements is important. Research has indicated that resistance training performed in combination with high intensity speed and plyometric training, improves athletic performance of soccer players. Aims and Objectives: This study investigated the effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme in Addo in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach in the form of a quasi-experimental design with an experimental and control group. The sample was conveniently selected based on availability of players and on them meeting specific inclusion criteria. Local soccer clubs in the Nomathamsanqa township - an impoverished area in Addo, which forms part of the Addo Soccer Development Programme (ASDP) - were invited to participate in the study. The final sample for this study consisted of 12 participants. A 10-week soccer-based resistance training intervention, addressing the components of physical fitness with specific emphasis on resistance training, was implemented after completion of the baseline testing. The intervention was designed to be suitable for a rural setting. Results: Within group comparisons revealed significant improvements in the experimental group for power (p = 0.028), speed (p = 0.028) and overall performance (grouped physical fitness measures) (p = 0.018) whereas the control group improved significantly in speed (p = 0.043) and regressed significantly in cardiovascular endurance (p = 0.043). Between group comparisons revealed significant differences for overall performance improvement in the experimental group (p = 0.006) and a reduction in cardiovascular endurance in the control group (p = 0.028). The main finding of this study is therefore this: that the individual parameters did not show consistent improvement when viewed in isolation, however that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance when all the physical fitness measures were computed as a collective result. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance however more research is required on soccer in rural and disadvantaged settings of South Africa to develop a convincing model for supplementary training other than conventional soccer practice to improve performance and to overcome the unique challenges faced in a rural setting.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Greyling, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical fitness--Soccer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50795 , vital:42701
- Description: Background: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide with an estimated 270 million people involved in the sport. Soccer is a fast-paced contact team sport that requires physical capabilities such as speed, agility, strength, power, aerobic and anaerobic fitness in addition to technical proficiency. Most goals are preceded by a linear sprint, jump or change of direction which is why the ability to perform fast powerful movements is important. Research has indicated that resistance training performed in combination with high intensity speed and plyometric training, improves athletic performance of soccer players. Aims and Objectives: This study investigated the effects of a resistance training intervention on the physical fitness of youth in a rural soccer development programme in Addo in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach in the form of a quasi-experimental design with an experimental and control group. The sample was conveniently selected based on availability of players and on them meeting specific inclusion criteria. Local soccer clubs in the Nomathamsanqa township - an impoverished area in Addo, which forms part of the Addo Soccer Development Programme (ASDP) - were invited to participate in the study. The final sample for this study consisted of 12 participants. A 10-week soccer-based resistance training intervention, addressing the components of physical fitness with specific emphasis on resistance training, was implemented after completion of the baseline testing. The intervention was designed to be suitable for a rural setting. Results: Within group comparisons revealed significant improvements in the experimental group for power (p = 0.028), speed (p = 0.028) and overall performance (grouped physical fitness measures) (p = 0.018) whereas the control group improved significantly in speed (p = 0.043) and regressed significantly in cardiovascular endurance (p = 0.043). Between group comparisons revealed significant differences for overall performance improvement in the experimental group (p = 0.006) and a reduction in cardiovascular endurance in the control group (p = 0.028). The main finding of this study is therefore this: that the individual parameters did not show consistent improvement when viewed in isolation, however that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance when all the physical fitness measures were computed as a collective result. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on overall performance however more research is required on soccer in rural and disadvantaged settings of South Africa to develop a convincing model for supplementary training other than conventional soccer practice to improve performance and to overcome the unique challenges faced in a rural setting.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions
- Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Authors: Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Greenhouse gases -- Environmental aspects -- Africa , Climate change mitigation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50404 , vital:42162
- Description: This study employs the panel cointegration and Pooled Mean Group technique to examine the effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions using the panel data from the period of 1970 to 2014 for five Southern African Development Community group of countries. The increase in the combustion of burning fossil fuels has become the global threat in environmental quality. The Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis postulates that at the primary stages of industrial economies there is more extracting of natural resources and more agricultural activities taking place as a result the waste generation and resource depletion accelerate. However, as the economic development improves more, the curve reaches a threshold where it starts to decline due to the increase in economic growth and the change to information-based industries. Based on the empirical evidence, the variables of this study were found to be stationary at first difference and integrated of I(0) and I(1) using Im, Pesaran & Shin W-stat, Fisher ADF, and Levin, Lin & Chu panel unit root test. The existing long-run relationship between the variables were found in both the Pedroni and Kao cointegration test and were significant at 5% in finding the relationship between the variables. The Pooled Mean Group demonstrated mixed results in the study’s regressions, monotonic relationship was found between carbon dioxide and economic growth. The strong existence relationship between economic growth and energy consumption was found to be significant at the 1% level. These results are in line with the EKC hypothesis, which assumes that as the income level increases the society will start to be environmentally friendly and the technology advancement will decrease the emission of pollutants. In addition, in finding the causal relationship between variables, the researcher used the Granger causality test, with the results from this test revealing a unidirectional and bidirectional relationship between all the chosen variables. These results are important for policy makers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Greenhouse gases -- Environmental aspects -- Africa , Climate change mitigation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50404 , vital:42162
- Description: This study employs the panel cointegration and Pooled Mean Group technique to examine the effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions using the panel data from the period of 1970 to 2014 for five Southern African Development Community group of countries. The increase in the combustion of burning fossil fuels has become the global threat in environmental quality. The Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis postulates that at the primary stages of industrial economies there is more extracting of natural resources and more agricultural activities taking place as a result the waste generation and resource depletion accelerate. However, as the economic development improves more, the curve reaches a threshold where it starts to decline due to the increase in economic growth and the change to information-based industries. Based on the empirical evidence, the variables of this study were found to be stationary at first difference and integrated of I(0) and I(1) using Im, Pesaran & Shin W-stat, Fisher ADF, and Levin, Lin & Chu panel unit root test. The existing long-run relationship between the variables were found in both the Pedroni and Kao cointegration test and were significant at 5% in finding the relationship between the variables. The Pooled Mean Group demonstrated mixed results in the study’s regressions, monotonic relationship was found between carbon dioxide and economic growth. The strong existence relationship between economic growth and energy consumption was found to be significant at the 1% level. These results are in line with the EKC hypothesis, which assumes that as the income level increases the society will start to be environmentally friendly and the technology advancement will decrease the emission of pollutants. In addition, in finding the causal relationship between variables, the researcher used the Granger causality test, with the results from this test revealing a unidirectional and bidirectional relationship between all the chosen variables. These results are important for policy makers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of high-intensity speed training on the speed reserve of university middle-distance and field sport athletes
- Authors: Thomas, Emma Jayne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Athletes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46346 , vital:39599
- Description: Context: Despite the multiple differences between athletic events and sports, they all share the sporadic bouts of moderate to extreme intensities and all require some contribution from an integrated bioenergetic system to allow for optimal performance. Although D’ is often considered as an ‘anaerobic work capacity’, such a definition is over-simplistic and its precise composition is nebulous, especially given the mixed findings of the experimental evidence. Clearly, further research is needed to provide a more complete understanding of the D’ parameter, as well as the speed reserve(range of speeds exceeding critical speed) especially within high-intensity exercise. Purpose (Aim): The aim of this study is to determine whether a short term high-intensity speed training intervention within the severe intensity domain effects speed reserve in athletic and non-athletic individuals considered moderately trained.Methods: A quantitative research design was used. Participantscompletedbaseline testing (pre-test), after which they were assigned into two groups. Both groups received a HIIT training program, with group 1 (G140%) receiving a program based on intensity prescription (work bouts performed at 140% of CS)and group 2 (G90-s) receiving a program based on time intervals (work bouts performed for 90-s). HIIT sessions were performed twice-weekly for a total of 6-weeks. A post-test assessment was then conducted by both groups to determine whether any changes have accrued in any of the physiological variables in question. Participants of the study met a specific criterion(18 –30 years of age, residing in Nelson Mandela Bay, and met the minimum fitness requirements). Results: No significant between-group differences were evident prior to and following cessation of the HIIT intervention. Findings that can be highlighted holistically include improvements in CS(G140%: M = 0.62 m.s-1; G90-s: M = 0.46 m.s-1)and 𝑉̇𝑂2𝑚𝑎𝑥 (G140%: +3.81 ml.kg-1.min-1; G90-s: +5.19 ml.kg-1.min-1)and a decrease in fatigue index (G140%: M = -6.75%; G90-s: M = -4.38%) and D’(G140%: M = -56.34 m; G90-s: M = -18.36 m).Normative data were generated for athletic and non-athletic participants using the standard nine (Stanine) categorization to facilitate interpretation and recommendations of key parameters for coaches and clinicians. Moreover, a deterministic model was also generated which revealed novel interactions and the strength of the relationship between variables-potentially opening new and innovative areas of future research. Conclusions: The interval durations and speeds utilised in the present study were insufficient to stimulate an increase in D’. To elicit an increase of D’, one would have to decrease the duration of the intervals performed(i.e. < 90-sec), while increasing speed at which the intervals performed at some speed greater than 140% of CS, but below MSS. Further research is needed to understand the physiological underpinning of the D’ parameter both in isolation and in conjunction with CS. It is clear that D’ is influenced by parameters such as MSS, 𝜏d and FI%; therefore, these sub-parameters should be explored further as potentiators for moderating the D’ parameter.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Thomas, Emma Jayne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Athletes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46346 , vital:39599
- Description: Context: Despite the multiple differences between athletic events and sports, they all share the sporadic bouts of moderate to extreme intensities and all require some contribution from an integrated bioenergetic system to allow for optimal performance. Although D’ is often considered as an ‘anaerobic work capacity’, such a definition is over-simplistic and its precise composition is nebulous, especially given the mixed findings of the experimental evidence. Clearly, further research is needed to provide a more complete understanding of the D’ parameter, as well as the speed reserve(range of speeds exceeding critical speed) especially within high-intensity exercise. Purpose (Aim): The aim of this study is to determine whether a short term high-intensity speed training intervention within the severe intensity domain effects speed reserve in athletic and non-athletic individuals considered moderately trained.Methods: A quantitative research design was used. Participantscompletedbaseline testing (pre-test), after which they were assigned into two groups. Both groups received a HIIT training program, with group 1 (G140%) receiving a program based on intensity prescription (work bouts performed at 140% of CS)and group 2 (G90-s) receiving a program based on time intervals (work bouts performed for 90-s). HIIT sessions were performed twice-weekly for a total of 6-weeks. A post-test assessment was then conducted by both groups to determine whether any changes have accrued in any of the physiological variables in question. Participants of the study met a specific criterion(18 –30 years of age, residing in Nelson Mandela Bay, and met the minimum fitness requirements). Results: No significant between-group differences were evident prior to and following cessation of the HIIT intervention. Findings that can be highlighted holistically include improvements in CS(G140%: M = 0.62 m.s-1; G90-s: M = 0.46 m.s-1)and 𝑉̇𝑂2𝑚𝑎𝑥 (G140%: +3.81 ml.kg-1.min-1; G90-s: +5.19 ml.kg-1.min-1)and a decrease in fatigue index (G140%: M = -6.75%; G90-s: M = -4.38%) and D’(G140%: M = -56.34 m; G90-s: M = -18.36 m).Normative data were generated for athletic and non-athletic participants using the standard nine (Stanine) categorization to facilitate interpretation and recommendations of key parameters for coaches and clinicians. Moreover, a deterministic model was also generated which revealed novel interactions and the strength of the relationship between variables-potentially opening new and innovative areas of future research. Conclusions: The interval durations and speeds utilised in the present study were insufficient to stimulate an increase in D’. To elicit an increase of D’, one would have to decrease the duration of the intervals performed(i.e. < 90-sec), while increasing speed at which the intervals performed at some speed greater than 140% of CS, but below MSS. Further research is needed to understand the physiological underpinning of the D’ parameter both in isolation and in conjunction with CS. It is clear that D’ is influenced by parameters such as MSS, 𝜏d and FI%; therefore, these sub-parameters should be explored further as potentiators for moderating the D’ parameter.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Efficacy of the rind physiological disorder oleocellosis control measures in lemon fruit (Citrus limon) under shade netting
- Authors: Njili, Zamazima
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Citrus fruits--Storage--Diseases and injuries , Citrus--Diseases and pests Citrus fruit industry Citrus products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49237 , vital:41613
- Description: Lemon growers aim to produce fruit with no blemishes on the rind. Fruit without blemishes is regarded as high value fruit required for the export market. Leakage of phytotoxic oil from the rind tissues damages them and results in the development of oleocellosis symptoms. Four experiments were conducted to investigate methods of avoiding and controlling the development of oleocellosis during harvest and post-harvest handling. The first experiment indicated that the rind oil release pressure (RORP) test is the method most effective at predicting oleocellosis incidents. The experiment also suggested that fruit not exposed to the sun are the most susceptible to oleocellosis due to low temperatures that cause high turgidity. Oleocellosis results when turgid fruit is mishandled. A cultivar experiment was carried out to ascertain the lemon cultivar most susceptible to oleocellosis. The results show that the Limoneira cultivar is the most susceptible to oleocellosis and 2PH seedless is the least susceptible cultivar when compared to other lemon cultivars such as Lisbon, Eureka and Genoa. When the use of shade netting was tested to determine its effect on oleocellosis severity, it was found that using shade netting did not have an effect. Fruit grown under shade netting had the same colour and average diameter as fruit grown in an open orchard. In the same experiment, mature fruit were shown to be more susceptible to oleocellosis than immature fruit. The final part of the project investigated harvesting and post-harvest practices to determine those that cause oleocellosis the most. It was found that fruit after degreening had greater oleocellosis due to exposure to moisture conditions and rough handling. Another practice that results in oleocellosis occurs before waxing when the fruit was roughly transferred from the bins into the packline. The third oleocellosis inducing practice was moving fruit along the conveyor belt while it is turgid. Improvement of handling procedures to reduce oleocellosis can increase export volume and result in higher value of fruit per carton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Njili, Zamazima
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Citrus fruits--Storage--Diseases and injuries , Citrus--Diseases and pests Citrus fruit industry Citrus products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49237 , vital:41613
- Description: Lemon growers aim to produce fruit with no blemishes on the rind. Fruit without blemishes is regarded as high value fruit required for the export market. Leakage of phytotoxic oil from the rind tissues damages them and results in the development of oleocellosis symptoms. Four experiments were conducted to investigate methods of avoiding and controlling the development of oleocellosis during harvest and post-harvest handling. The first experiment indicated that the rind oil release pressure (RORP) test is the method most effective at predicting oleocellosis incidents. The experiment also suggested that fruit not exposed to the sun are the most susceptible to oleocellosis due to low temperatures that cause high turgidity. Oleocellosis results when turgid fruit is mishandled. A cultivar experiment was carried out to ascertain the lemon cultivar most susceptible to oleocellosis. The results show that the Limoneira cultivar is the most susceptible to oleocellosis and 2PH seedless is the least susceptible cultivar when compared to other lemon cultivars such as Lisbon, Eureka and Genoa. When the use of shade netting was tested to determine its effect on oleocellosis severity, it was found that using shade netting did not have an effect. Fruit grown under shade netting had the same colour and average diameter as fruit grown in an open orchard. In the same experiment, mature fruit were shown to be more susceptible to oleocellosis than immature fruit. The final part of the project investigated harvesting and post-harvest practices to determine those that cause oleocellosis the most. It was found that fruit after degreening had greater oleocellosis due to exposure to moisture conditions and rough handling. Another practice that results in oleocellosis occurs before waxing when the fruit was roughly transferred from the bins into the packline. The third oleocellosis inducing practice was moving fruit along the conveyor belt while it is turgid. Improvement of handling procedures to reduce oleocellosis can increase export volume and result in higher value of fruit per carton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Efficient market hypothesis : testing weak-form efficiency on the Johannesburg stock exchange
- Authors: Eaton, Bradley Hayes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Efficient market theory
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47895 , vital:40396
- Description: Understanding financial markets is paramount in acknowledging the flow of domestic and foreign funds over time. In this study, net market capitalisation price and simple return characteristics were investigated for the period from January 2009 to December 2017. An empirical, statistical approach was used to explore the possibility that, since the 2008 financial crisis, forward-looking, aggregate market and financial-oriented equity indices have conformed to the Efficient Market Hypothesis. Accordingly, monthly observations were made to ensure long-run traits were identified and scrutinised. Such revelations are important for portfolio diversification, risk, and expected return potentials with respect to South African equity markets. Based on the study, it was found that random walks were evident in both the price and return time-series as a result of significant stochastic price action, supported by evidence suggesting non-normality of price and return distributions. Unit root and stationarity modelling confirmed such traits. However, significant trending behaviours were evident in the auto-correlation figures with regards to prices, despite mean-reverting and stochastic influences. Therefore, it was concluded from the results of the study that the respective time-series were weak-form efficient. The empirical component was supplemented by a comprehensive investigation into the market determinants of financial market inefficiencies, including partial correlations, contagion effects, momentum, financial bubbles, and liquidity issues. Secondary objectives of the study included identifying the roles of security exchanges and the effect of international linkages, as a result of globalisation, on the financial markets. Increased macro-economic and systems integration has led to positive and negative connotations for business cycles. Spill-over effects into global equity markets are evident as can be seen through the co-integration of leading world exchanges, both in the developed and emerging market spheres. Fundamental to this study was the sensitivity of South African equity markets to recessionary pressures, as analysed through the efficiency of aggregated equity indices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Eaton, Bradley Hayes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Efficient market theory
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47895 , vital:40396
- Description: Understanding financial markets is paramount in acknowledging the flow of domestic and foreign funds over time. In this study, net market capitalisation price and simple return characteristics were investigated for the period from January 2009 to December 2017. An empirical, statistical approach was used to explore the possibility that, since the 2008 financial crisis, forward-looking, aggregate market and financial-oriented equity indices have conformed to the Efficient Market Hypothesis. Accordingly, monthly observations were made to ensure long-run traits were identified and scrutinised. Such revelations are important for portfolio diversification, risk, and expected return potentials with respect to South African equity markets. Based on the study, it was found that random walks were evident in both the price and return time-series as a result of significant stochastic price action, supported by evidence suggesting non-normality of price and return distributions. Unit root and stationarity modelling confirmed such traits. However, significant trending behaviours were evident in the auto-correlation figures with regards to prices, despite mean-reverting and stochastic influences. Therefore, it was concluded from the results of the study that the respective time-series were weak-form efficient. The empirical component was supplemented by a comprehensive investigation into the market determinants of financial market inefficiencies, including partial correlations, contagion effects, momentum, financial bubbles, and liquidity issues. Secondary objectives of the study included identifying the roles of security exchanges and the effect of international linkages, as a result of globalisation, on the financial markets. Increased macro-economic and systems integration has led to positive and negative connotations for business cycles. Spill-over effects into global equity markets are evident as can be seen through the co-integration of leading world exchanges, both in the developed and emerging market spheres. Fundamental to this study was the sensitivity of South African equity markets to recessionary pressures, as analysed through the efficiency of aggregated equity indices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Either way you die: a collection of short stories
- Authors: Sithole, Sipho
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145081 , vital:38406
- Description: Part A: Thesis (Creative Work); Part B: Portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sithole, Sipho
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145081 , vital:38406
- Description: Part A: Thesis (Creative Work); Part B: Portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Elucidation of the effect of cannabinoids on ER stress to determine their molecular mechanism of action in breast cancer cells
- Authors: De la Harpe, Amy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Endoplasmic reticulum -- Pathophysiology , Breast -- Cancer -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48213 , vital:40525
- Description: Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is defined as an imbalance between the ER’s protein-folding load and folding capacity. ER stress is induced by various physiological conditions and subsequently triggers the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) to re-establish homeostasis and promote cell survival. However, under severe or chronic stress, apoptosis is induced. Normal cells generally do not experience ER stress; however, stressful conditions in the tumour micro-environment facilitates chronic ER stress and UPR activation, which plays a pivotal role in tumour survival. Exacerbation of pre-existing ER stress can trigger cancer cell death, with a minimal effect on normal cells. Currently, no high-throughput method exists to detect and quantify ER stress in cell lines. This study showed that Thioflavin T, a fluorescent dye that binds to misfolded protein aggregates, can be used for the high-throughput detection of ER stress, and provides several advantages over currently used methods. Current literature suggests that cannabinoid treatment may induce cancer cell death via ER stress, however little is known about the mechanism of induction. This study proposed a mechanism that occurs via the influx of Ca2+ via the vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1), and subsequent ROS production, which affects protein folding. ER stress was induced using various cannabinoids and measured using Thioflavin T and western blot analysis. The effect of cannabinoid treatment on ROS production and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured. Cannabidiol (CBD) was the most potent ER stress inducer, significantly increasing Ca2+ and ROS accumulation; however, the level of accumulated Ca2+ across cell lines varied, which may be due to the differences in the TRPV1 expression and localization. Concomitant treatment of CBD with an antioxidant significantly increased cell viability and decreased ER stress induction in the MCF7 cell line. Concomitant treatment with a TRPV1 antagonist increased viability in this cell line. In conclusion, the results suggested that CBD may induce ER stress via Ca2+ influx through the TRPV1 receptor, thereby elevating intracellular ROS levels and disrupting protein folding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De la Harpe, Amy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Endoplasmic reticulum -- Pathophysiology , Breast -- Cancer -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48213 , vital:40525
- Description: Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is defined as an imbalance between the ER’s protein-folding load and folding capacity. ER stress is induced by various physiological conditions and subsequently triggers the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) to re-establish homeostasis and promote cell survival. However, under severe or chronic stress, apoptosis is induced. Normal cells generally do not experience ER stress; however, stressful conditions in the tumour micro-environment facilitates chronic ER stress and UPR activation, which plays a pivotal role in tumour survival. Exacerbation of pre-existing ER stress can trigger cancer cell death, with a minimal effect on normal cells. Currently, no high-throughput method exists to detect and quantify ER stress in cell lines. This study showed that Thioflavin T, a fluorescent dye that binds to misfolded protein aggregates, can be used for the high-throughput detection of ER stress, and provides several advantages over currently used methods. Current literature suggests that cannabinoid treatment may induce cancer cell death via ER stress, however little is known about the mechanism of induction. This study proposed a mechanism that occurs via the influx of Ca2+ via the vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1), and subsequent ROS production, which affects protein folding. ER stress was induced using various cannabinoids and measured using Thioflavin T and western blot analysis. The effect of cannabinoid treatment on ROS production and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured. Cannabidiol (CBD) was the most potent ER stress inducer, significantly increasing Ca2+ and ROS accumulation; however, the level of accumulated Ca2+ across cell lines varied, which may be due to the differences in the TRPV1 expression and localization. Concomitant treatment of CBD with an antioxidant significantly increased cell viability and decreased ER stress induction in the MCF7 cell line. Concomitant treatment with a TRPV1 antagonist increased viability in this cell line. In conclusion, the results suggested that CBD may induce ER stress via Ca2+ influx through the TRPV1 receptor, thereby elevating intracellular ROS levels and disrupting protein folding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Employee retention as a strategy for the sustainability of rehabilitation services within the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District
- Authors: Campbell, Teneille Dawn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47530 , vital:40124
- Description: Health care facilities in the South African public sector have, over time, become notorious for poor service delivery, peppered with issues of poor governance, weak administration capabilities, and ailing working conditions. Often, the consequence hereof is a loss of good talent to both the private sector and health sectors abroad, all the while placing more strain on institutional service delivery capabilities. To achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the strengthening of health systems is critical. The purpose of this study is therefore to offer supportable solutions to improve and maintain a sustainable rehabilitation service in the Nelson Mandela Metro through successful retention of staff. The aim of this study then is to investigate the influence that Human Resources (HR) processes, working conditions and leadership have had on retention of staff. A review of the available literature was conducted on possible factors that contribute to the problem and the solutions thereof. The study population included all staff that worked in rehabilitation service departments in the public health institutions in the Nelson Mandela Metro, namely; physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and audiology. The sample constituted n=51 respondents. Data was collected via a questionnaire as the selected measurement tool. The data was analysed using the statistical data analysis software system, TIBCO Statistica (version 13), and selected methods for quantitative data. The results of the study showed that only HR processes were significantly and positively (r = 0.67, p < 0.05) related to retention. It means that satisfying the HR needs of this population is most likely to retain their employ and improve and maintain rehabilitation service delivery in the selected metro. Descriptive statistics of all the variables were also calculated and reported on. Lastly, the managerial implications of the study findings were reported on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Campbell, Teneille Dawn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47530 , vital:40124
- Description: Health care facilities in the South African public sector have, over time, become notorious for poor service delivery, peppered with issues of poor governance, weak administration capabilities, and ailing working conditions. Often, the consequence hereof is a loss of good talent to both the private sector and health sectors abroad, all the while placing more strain on institutional service delivery capabilities. To achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the strengthening of health systems is critical. The purpose of this study is therefore to offer supportable solutions to improve and maintain a sustainable rehabilitation service in the Nelson Mandela Metro through successful retention of staff. The aim of this study then is to investigate the influence that Human Resources (HR) processes, working conditions and leadership have had on retention of staff. A review of the available literature was conducted on possible factors that contribute to the problem and the solutions thereof. The study population included all staff that worked in rehabilitation service departments in the public health institutions in the Nelson Mandela Metro, namely; physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and audiology. The sample constituted n=51 respondents. Data was collected via a questionnaire as the selected measurement tool. The data was analysed using the statistical data analysis software system, TIBCO Statistica (version 13), and selected methods for quantitative data. The results of the study showed that only HR processes were significantly and positively (r = 0.67, p < 0.05) related to retention. It means that satisfying the HR needs of this population is most likely to retain their employ and improve and maintain rehabilitation service delivery in the selected metro. Descriptive statistics of all the variables were also calculated and reported on. Lastly, the managerial implications of the study findings were reported on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Enabling violence: the ethics of writing and reading rape in South Africa
- Authors: Lloyd Dylan Reumen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Rape -- South Africa , Rape -- Fiction , Rape in literature , Rape in literature -- South Africa , Psychic trauma in literature , Post-traumatic stress disorder in literature , Dystopias in literature , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- Disgrace , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166173 , vital:41335
- Description: This thesis is concerned with describing the stakes of reading, writing and criticising fictional depictions of rape in a country plagued by high levels of sexual violence. I consider the capacity of rape representations to cause harm to women and rape survivors, and worsen the various injuries suffered by survivors as a direct or indirect consequence of rape. The possibility of such harm prompts me to examine the role and responsibilities of readers and critics in facilitating or preventing such harm. I further discuss the potential strategies of harm prevention that readers of novelistic portrayals of rape might adopt as well as the positive outcomes that such reading strategies make possible, and which might balance out the risks that accompany them. My description of the potential harm of rape representations combines postmodern critical feminist analysis with Miranda Fricker’s work on epistemic justice and Judith Herman’s work on trauma in order to illustrate the way that these representations shape our conception of rape in a manner that affects everything from how it is enacted to our treatment of survivors to the possibility of their recovery from posttraumatic stress disorder. In order to situate my analysis in the context of South African literature and to explore the notion of responsibility in relation to the writing of scenes of rape, I utilise a close reading of J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace. Furthermore, I discuss the utility and limits of the critical feminist strategy of using a normative critical approach to rape representations in order to prevent harm. Ultimately, I argue that the use of such a strategy, along with the development of a purpose-honed adaptive critical style, is essential to the fulfilment of our responsibilities as readers and to the prevention of further suffering.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Lloyd Dylan Reumen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Rape -- South Africa , Rape -- Fiction , Rape in literature , Rape in literature -- South Africa , Psychic trauma in literature , Post-traumatic stress disorder in literature , Dystopias in literature , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- Disgrace , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166173 , vital:41335
- Description: This thesis is concerned with describing the stakes of reading, writing and criticising fictional depictions of rape in a country plagued by high levels of sexual violence. I consider the capacity of rape representations to cause harm to women and rape survivors, and worsen the various injuries suffered by survivors as a direct or indirect consequence of rape. The possibility of such harm prompts me to examine the role and responsibilities of readers and critics in facilitating or preventing such harm. I further discuss the potential strategies of harm prevention that readers of novelistic portrayals of rape might adopt as well as the positive outcomes that such reading strategies make possible, and which might balance out the risks that accompany them. My description of the potential harm of rape representations combines postmodern critical feminist analysis with Miranda Fricker’s work on epistemic justice and Judith Herman’s work on trauma in order to illustrate the way that these representations shape our conception of rape in a manner that affects everything from how it is enacted to our treatment of survivors to the possibility of their recovery from posttraumatic stress disorder. In order to situate my analysis in the context of South African literature and to explore the notion of responsibility in relation to the writing of scenes of rape, I utilise a close reading of J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace. Furthermore, I discuss the utility and limits of the critical feminist strategy of using a normative critical approach to rape representations in order to prevent harm. Ultimately, I argue that the use of such a strategy, along with the development of a purpose-honed adaptive critical style, is essential to the fulfilment of our responsibilities as readers and to the prevention of further suffering.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Enactment of hands-on practical activities through using easily accessible resources in a Grade 10 Physical Science classroom
- Authors: Ndevahoma, Martha Kashike
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/110229 , vital:33251
- Description: The Namibian National Subject Policy Guide for Physical Science Grade 8-12 (MoE, 2010) indicates that science teachers should be creative and innovative in producing their own teaching and learning support materials that are linked to practice. Practical activities play a major role in the learning of science. Due to the lack of science laboratory equipment, however, minimal practical activities are done in some schools especially under-resourced disadvantaged schools. It is against this background that this case study investigated the possibilities and challenges associated with the use of easily accessible resources to carry out hands-on practical activities. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, this study used a mixed-method approach by generating both quantitative and qualitative data. It was carried out in the Otjozondjupa region in Namibia at Wato Secondary School (pseudonym). It was conducted with a Grade 10 Physical Science class consisting of 30 learners. To generate data, questionnaires, focus group interviews, lesson observations, stimulated recall interviews, as well as learners’ journal reflections were used. Conceptions, dispositions, interest and sense-making were used as conceptual lenses while Vygotsky’s social constructivism was the theoretical framework that informed this study. Quantitative data were analysed using the conceptual lenses and were subsequently presented in tables and graphs. That is, a deductive approach to analysis was used. On the other hand, a thematic approach was used to analyse the qualitative data. That is, qualitative data were inductively analysed to come up with sub-themes and themes. The findings from this study revealed significant shifts in learners’ conceptions, dispositions and interest towards science after the use of easily accessible resources to do hands-on practical activities. Similarly, learners’ sense-making of science concepts improved. This study thus recommends that science teachers should, where possible, make use of easily accessible resources to carry out hands-on practical activities during their science lessons. During such hands-on practicals, however, emphasis should be on the development of scientific concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ndevahoma, Martha Kashike
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/110229 , vital:33251
- Description: The Namibian National Subject Policy Guide for Physical Science Grade 8-12 (MoE, 2010) indicates that science teachers should be creative and innovative in producing their own teaching and learning support materials that are linked to practice. Practical activities play a major role in the learning of science. Due to the lack of science laboratory equipment, however, minimal practical activities are done in some schools especially under-resourced disadvantaged schools. It is against this background that this case study investigated the possibilities and challenges associated with the use of easily accessible resources to carry out hands-on practical activities. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, this study used a mixed-method approach by generating both quantitative and qualitative data. It was carried out in the Otjozondjupa region in Namibia at Wato Secondary School (pseudonym). It was conducted with a Grade 10 Physical Science class consisting of 30 learners. To generate data, questionnaires, focus group interviews, lesson observations, stimulated recall interviews, as well as learners’ journal reflections were used. Conceptions, dispositions, interest and sense-making were used as conceptual lenses while Vygotsky’s social constructivism was the theoretical framework that informed this study. Quantitative data were analysed using the conceptual lenses and were subsequently presented in tables and graphs. That is, a deductive approach to analysis was used. On the other hand, a thematic approach was used to analyse the qualitative data. That is, qualitative data were inductively analysed to come up with sub-themes and themes. The findings from this study revealed significant shifts in learners’ conceptions, dispositions and interest towards science after the use of easily accessible resources to do hands-on practical activities. Similarly, learners’ sense-making of science concepts improved. This study thus recommends that science teachers should, where possible, make use of easily accessible resources to carry out hands-on practical activities during their science lessons. During such hands-on practicals, however, emphasis should be on the development of scientific concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Energy management as an element of a financial efficiency strategy : a case of the City Tshwane
- Authors: Maubane, Lekgatla Donald
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Industries -- Energy conservation -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49507 , vital:41727
- Description: The costs of operating buildings and facilities which the City of Tshwane utilises for conducting business have substantially increased due to the cost of electricity more than quadrupling in the past decade in South Africa, worsening the already constrained budgets. Research has shown that implementation of successful and sustainable energy management of built environment assets is effective in reducing costs due to resulting reduction in energy consumption and is therefore fitting to include it as an element of a financial efficiency strategy in organisations. This study aims to investigate how the City of Tshwane utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency and to make recommendations where necessary. Building on existing literature on energy management, it asks: How does the City of Tshwane utilise energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency? In this context, energy management is defined as the continuous process of managing behavioural, organisational and technical change to improve an organisation’s energy performance. An instrument suitable for collecting qualitative data was constructed based on theories found in the reviewed literature. Interview participants were purposively sampled from departments which have direct influence on the energy management chain in the city. Relevant documents provided by the city were also reviewed to support triangulation of data. An analysis of data demonstrated that the city utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency. The results also indicated that there are several deficiencies in the manner in which the city currently manages energy. On this basis, it is recommended that the city installs meters for all energy consuming built environment assets; abandons the practice of accounting for energy costs as part of overheads and adopt the practice of direct costs accounting; and implements measures to review relevant strategy documents at planned intervals in order to ensure their continuing suitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Maubane, Lekgatla Donald
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Industries -- Energy conservation -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49507 , vital:41727
- Description: The costs of operating buildings and facilities which the City of Tshwane utilises for conducting business have substantially increased due to the cost of electricity more than quadrupling in the past decade in South Africa, worsening the already constrained budgets. Research has shown that implementation of successful and sustainable energy management of built environment assets is effective in reducing costs due to resulting reduction in energy consumption and is therefore fitting to include it as an element of a financial efficiency strategy in organisations. This study aims to investigate how the City of Tshwane utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency and to make recommendations where necessary. Building on existing literature on energy management, it asks: How does the City of Tshwane utilise energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency? In this context, energy management is defined as the continuous process of managing behavioural, organisational and technical change to improve an organisation’s energy performance. An instrument suitable for collecting qualitative data was constructed based on theories found in the reviewed literature. Interview participants were purposively sampled from departments which have direct influence on the energy management chain in the city. Relevant documents provided by the city were also reviewed to support triangulation of data. An analysis of data demonstrated that the city utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency. The results also indicated that there are several deficiencies in the manner in which the city currently manages energy. On this basis, it is recommended that the city installs meters for all energy consuming built environment assets; abandons the practice of accounting for energy costs as part of overheads and adopt the practice of direct costs accounting; and implements measures to review relevant strategy documents at planned intervals in order to ensure their continuing suitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Enriching my teaching around the inverse order relationship in unit fractions at the Grade 5 level through the inclusion of musical activities: an action research case study
- Authors: Lovemore, Tarryn Shirley
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Case studies , Interdisciplinary approach in education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Music -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Case studies , Music -- Mathematics , Musical notation -- Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142431 , vital:38079
- Description: This research study explored how the use of musical activities, specifically based on note values, might enrich my teaching around the inverse order relation of unit fractions in my Grade 5 mathematics classroom. Much research has identified fractions as a problematic concept to teach in primary schools. Curriculum expectations of mathematics and music, as well as prior research, recognise a link between these two subject areas. Based on these connections between mathematics and music, I make the case for further research into practical ways in which music and mathematics can be integrated to support teaching and learning in the South African context. This study is located within a qualitative and interpretive framework. The concepts of integration, learning style theory, Gardner’s multiple intelligences and Bresler’s styles of arts integration guide the research. I made use of practical and theoretical activities relating to note values in music. I explored these strategies and the use of learning support materials through an action research case study, in which I engaged in cycles of trialing, reflecting, adjusting and re-trialing within the ‘case’ of my own mathematics class. Data sources comprised of my reflective journal, learner feedback, video- and audio-recorded lessons, examples of learners’ work and interviews with critical peers who observed critical moments from the video recordings. I was guided through the analysis phase by two analytical frameworks: Karsenty and Arcavi’s Six Lense Framework (SLF) and Adler and Ronda’s Mathematics Discourse in Instruction (MDI) framework which I adapted. Using three key lessons, I provide detailed descriptions of how the lessons progressed and then identify and discuss some of the key findings and recurring themes in relation to my study’s research question and goals. Through this process, I show that my integration of mathematics and musical activities helped promote active engagement amongst learners and provided them with co-equivalent opportunities to appreciate the importance of note values in music, and relate this back to understandings around the inverse order relation of unit fractions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Lovemore, Tarryn Shirley
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Case studies , Interdisciplinary approach in education -- South Africa -- Case studies , Music -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Case studies , Music -- Mathematics , Musical notation -- Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142431 , vital:38079
- Description: This research study explored how the use of musical activities, specifically based on note values, might enrich my teaching around the inverse order relation of unit fractions in my Grade 5 mathematics classroom. Much research has identified fractions as a problematic concept to teach in primary schools. Curriculum expectations of mathematics and music, as well as prior research, recognise a link between these two subject areas. Based on these connections between mathematics and music, I make the case for further research into practical ways in which music and mathematics can be integrated to support teaching and learning in the South African context. This study is located within a qualitative and interpretive framework. The concepts of integration, learning style theory, Gardner’s multiple intelligences and Bresler’s styles of arts integration guide the research. I made use of practical and theoretical activities relating to note values in music. I explored these strategies and the use of learning support materials through an action research case study, in which I engaged in cycles of trialing, reflecting, adjusting and re-trialing within the ‘case’ of my own mathematics class. Data sources comprised of my reflective journal, learner feedback, video- and audio-recorded lessons, examples of learners’ work and interviews with critical peers who observed critical moments from the video recordings. I was guided through the analysis phase by two analytical frameworks: Karsenty and Arcavi’s Six Lense Framework (SLF) and Adler and Ronda’s Mathematics Discourse in Instruction (MDI) framework which I adapted. Using three key lessons, I provide detailed descriptions of how the lessons progressed and then identify and discuss some of the key findings and recurring themes in relation to my study’s research question and goals. Through this process, I show that my integration of mathematics and musical activities helped promote active engagement amongst learners and provided them with co-equivalent opportunities to appreciate the importance of note values in music, and relate this back to understandings around the inverse order relation of unit fractions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Entrepreneurship education in the agro-biodiversity sector: a case study of G-Tech PLA roll planter value creation for a youth community of practice in Gauteng
- Authors: Thupana, Mabora
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: G-Tech PLA roll planter , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167620 , vital:41497
- Description: Entrepreneurship is widely recognised as a basic skill that can be learned through practice. The main focus of this study was to investigate entrepreneurship education and the type of biodiversity entrepreneurial practices and opportunities that could create value for youth via the use of green technology: the PLA Roll Planter in the biodiversity and agriculture sector. The study was inspired by the need to identify and analyse knowledge, skills and entrepreneurial aspects associated with the use of green technology to strengthen entrepreneurial learning for youth participation in the green economy and green work. The study employed the use of Communities of Practice (COP) and Value Creation adopted from Wenger as theories and a focal lens to portray the contribution of technological practices to youth sustainable livelihoods and green work in the biodiversity sector. Research on the GTECH technology that was in focus in this study, the PLA Roll Planter, shows that newly introduced green innovations can increase agricultural outputs without depleting presently available resources. The study applied qualitative research approaches in a case study of the G-Tech PLA Roll Planter training and participation of a youth Community of Practice (COP) in Gauteng. It started by examining the knowledge capital as potential value embedded in the training and knowledge, skills and entrepreneurial aspects of the G-Tech PLA Roll Planter practices. The study then constructed four value creation stories of youth in the COP to understand other forms of value that were created for youth. The findings of the study depicted that the adoption of improved agricultural technology (PLA Roll Planter) has positive impacts and knowledge capital that can translate into other forms of value to support the emergence of viable economic activity in the agricultural sector. This can help increase food security and the ability to withstand risk of damaging the environment. The study shows that different forms of value were created for youth, and offers insight into how learning in communities of practice can help to advance entrepreneursip education in the biodiversity and especially the agro-ecological production sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Thupana, Mabora
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: G-Tech PLA roll planter , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167620 , vital:41497
- Description: Entrepreneurship is widely recognised as a basic skill that can be learned through practice. The main focus of this study was to investigate entrepreneurship education and the type of biodiversity entrepreneurial practices and opportunities that could create value for youth via the use of green technology: the PLA Roll Planter in the biodiversity and agriculture sector. The study was inspired by the need to identify and analyse knowledge, skills and entrepreneurial aspects associated with the use of green technology to strengthen entrepreneurial learning for youth participation in the green economy and green work. The study employed the use of Communities of Practice (COP) and Value Creation adopted from Wenger as theories and a focal lens to portray the contribution of technological practices to youth sustainable livelihoods and green work in the biodiversity sector. Research on the GTECH technology that was in focus in this study, the PLA Roll Planter, shows that newly introduced green innovations can increase agricultural outputs without depleting presently available resources. The study applied qualitative research approaches in a case study of the G-Tech PLA Roll Planter training and participation of a youth Community of Practice (COP) in Gauteng. It started by examining the knowledge capital as potential value embedded in the training and knowledge, skills and entrepreneurial aspects of the G-Tech PLA Roll Planter practices. The study then constructed four value creation stories of youth in the COP to understand other forms of value that were created for youth. The findings of the study depicted that the adoption of improved agricultural technology (PLA Roll Planter) has positive impacts and knowledge capital that can translate into other forms of value to support the emergence of viable economic activity in the agricultural sector. This can help increase food security and the ability to withstand risk of damaging the environment. The study shows that different forms of value were created for youth, and offers insight into how learning in communities of practice can help to advance entrepreneursip education in the biodiversity and especially the agro-ecological production sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Essential services in light of the 2014 Labour Law amendments
- Authors: Seshoka, Lesiba Job
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47427 , vital:39990
- Description: The topic of the treatise is “Essential Services in light of the 2014 Labour Law amendments”. It aims to investigate the state of essential services in the wake of the 2014 changes to the Labour Relations Act. As Pillay1 puts it, Furthermore, 15 years under our new essential services regime, it is time for reflection to preserve and improve what works and to fix what does not. The treatment of essential services is not playing as planned. In the meantime, notwithstanding the prohibition of strikes in essential services, they occur with disconcerting frequency, duration and intensity”. From these, one can deduce that prior to the changes effected in 2014, there have been serious challenges facing essential service personnel and employers which necessitated a change in legislation. The question, which this treatise tries to answer, is whether such change in legislation would in all likelihood addresses the challenges, which faced essential service employers and employees before it was enacted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Seshoka, Lesiba Job
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47427 , vital:39990
- Description: The topic of the treatise is “Essential Services in light of the 2014 Labour Law amendments”. It aims to investigate the state of essential services in the wake of the 2014 changes to the Labour Relations Act. As Pillay1 puts it, Furthermore, 15 years under our new essential services regime, it is time for reflection to preserve and improve what works and to fix what does not. The treatment of essential services is not playing as planned. In the meantime, notwithstanding the prohibition of strikes in essential services, they occur with disconcerting frequency, duration and intensity”. From these, one can deduce that prior to the changes effected in 2014, there have been serious challenges facing essential service personnel and employers which necessitated a change in legislation. The question, which this treatise tries to answer, is whether such change in legislation would in all likelihood addresses the challenges, which faced essential service employers and employees before it was enacted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Establishment of an information technology risk management framework within food manufacturing enterprises in South Africa
- Authors: Sandi, Siyabulela
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Information technology -- Security measures Computer security Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47128 , vital:39812
- Description: Enterprises of all kinds, regardless of the sector, are directly or indirectly dependent on Information Technology (IT) to carry out their daily activities. With this in mind, and correlated with the problem statement that it is “the lack of IT governance principles that lead to exposing enterprises to IT-related threats, vulnerabilities, and risks”, the objective of this study was to establish an Information Technology Risk Management Framework for enterprises within the Food manufacturing industry in South Africa that will ensure that IT-related threats, vulnerabilities, and risks are properly managed. In order to accomplish this, the research followed a process called design science research. The design science research paradigm was used to create a design artificial artefact in the form of a framework. The Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Framework Methodology (NMU-DSFM) was adopted since the objective of the study was to develop a framework. The study has revealed that enterprises within the sector are indeed lagging behind in terms of IT governance principles, hence an artefact called the IT Risk Management Framework for Enterprises within Food Manufacturing Industries in South Africa was developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sandi, Siyabulela
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Information technology -- Security measures Computer security Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47128 , vital:39812
- Description: Enterprises of all kinds, regardless of the sector, are directly or indirectly dependent on Information Technology (IT) to carry out their daily activities. With this in mind, and correlated with the problem statement that it is “the lack of IT governance principles that lead to exposing enterprises to IT-related threats, vulnerabilities, and risks”, the objective of this study was to establish an Information Technology Risk Management Framework for enterprises within the Food manufacturing industry in South Africa that will ensure that IT-related threats, vulnerabilities, and risks are properly managed. In order to accomplish this, the research followed a process called design science research. The design science research paradigm was used to create a design artificial artefact in the form of a framework. The Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Framework Methodology (NMU-DSFM) was adopted since the objective of the study was to develop a framework. The study has revealed that enterprises within the sector are indeed lagging behind in terms of IT governance principles, hence an artefact called the IT Risk Management Framework for Enterprises within Food Manufacturing Industries in South Africa was developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Ethics amongst public sector built environment professionals: Gauteng Provincial Government
- Authors: Magabuko, Thando Zuko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Civil service ethics -- South Africa -- Gauteng Public administration -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49484 , vital:41725
- Description: This study sought to establish whether there are merits to the perceptions of lack of professional, personal and corporate ethics amongst Built Environment professionals in Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), and to decipher the variance in the lack of ethics per built environment discipline. It also sought to propose ways to address the lack thereof, if it exists. The method that was utilised in this study is the quantitative research technique. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to analyse the data. The gathering of the primary data was done through the use of semi-structured questionnaires. The questionnaire was divided into three sections, with A being the demographical information, B the closed questions on the type of ethics (namely professional, personal and corporate) and C the open-ended questions on the type of ethics (namely professional, personal and corporate). This study has revealed that the lack of ethics amongst the professionals is marginal; but enforcement of the code of conduct and the willingness of senior management to address the ethical issues indeed varies per GPG department. The implications of the findings are that although unethical conduct is not rampant amongst built-environmental professionals in the Gauteng Provincial Government, it needs to be addressed and contained through mechanisms, such as training, the conducting of awareness campaigns and enforcement by senior management. If management can enforce the department’s code of conduct; and if professional bodies conduct awareness campaigns, the issue of unethical conduct could be reduced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Magabuko, Thando Zuko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Civil service ethics -- South Africa -- Gauteng Public administration -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49484 , vital:41725
- Description: This study sought to establish whether there are merits to the perceptions of lack of professional, personal and corporate ethics amongst Built Environment professionals in Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), and to decipher the variance in the lack of ethics per built environment discipline. It also sought to propose ways to address the lack thereof, if it exists. The method that was utilised in this study is the quantitative research technique. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to analyse the data. The gathering of the primary data was done through the use of semi-structured questionnaires. The questionnaire was divided into three sections, with A being the demographical information, B the closed questions on the type of ethics (namely professional, personal and corporate) and C the open-ended questions on the type of ethics (namely professional, personal and corporate). This study has revealed that the lack of ethics amongst the professionals is marginal; but enforcement of the code of conduct and the willingness of senior management to address the ethical issues indeed varies per GPG department. The implications of the findings are that although unethical conduct is not rampant amongst built-environmental professionals in the Gauteng Provincial Government, it needs to be addressed and contained through mechanisms, such as training, the conducting of awareness campaigns and enforcement by senior management. If management can enforce the department’s code of conduct; and if professional bodies conduct awareness campaigns, the issue of unethical conduct could be reduced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Evaluating the exclusion of certain categories of workers from the coverage of the unemployment insurance act 63 of 2001 and the consequences thereof
- Authors: Ncamane, Ntando
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Social security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18347 , vital:42254
- Description: The South African Unemployment Insurance system esteems from Social Insurance as a stream of Social Security, which consist of various elements, such as private savings, social assistance and social relief as well as social insurance. The Unemployment Insurance Act 63 of 2001 together with its sister Act, which is the Unemployment Insurance Contribution Act 4 of 2002 regulate South Africa’s unemployment insurance system. The Unemployment Insurance Act made provision for the establishment of the Unemployment Insurance Fund, which will pay unemployment benefits to certain categories of employees for unemployment, illness, maternity, adoption and dependents benefits. The UIA further makes provision for the establishment of the Unemployment Insurance Board and the appointment of the Unemployment Insurance Commissioner. The UIA applies to all employers and employees including domestic workers and seasonal workers, except to employees who work for less than 24 hours a month, employees who are employed on a leanership registered under the Skills Development Act 97 of 1998 and employees employed by the national or provincial government. Although the new Unemployment Insurance Amendment Bill makes provision for workers who were previously excluded from the coverage to be covered under the Amendment Act, these workers includes, workers on learnership, government workers and migrant workers. However, there are still some workers who do not enjoy the scope and application of the UIA those workers are workers working in the informal sector and employees who work less than 24 hours a month and workers who voluntary resign. Apart from the challenge of coverage, the study also examines other challenges faced by the UIA such as non-compliance with international standards, failure to minimise unemployment, discrimination of women against unemployment benefits, the short financial intervention provided by the UIF and the lack of proper dispute resolution mechanism. It is therefore the aim of this study to evaluate the exclusionary practice of the UIA and its repercussions on these certain categories of workers mentioned above. To achieve this abovementioned aim, the study embarks on a journey in which the background is outlined; the historical background of both social security and unemployment insurance including both the constitutional and legislative background (vi) is examined. The study scrutinises the unemployment insurance legal framework this include the structure of the UIF, benefits paid by the UIF, requirements for qualifying for benefits stipulated by the UIA. It goes further in scrutinising these certain categories of workers and other notable challenges of the UIA and UIF. Lastly but not least, an International Perspective and Comparative study is engaged on, so to outline relevant international instrument to the study and to get a better understanding of other countries unemployment insurance system and to enable South Africa to learn from these countries to enhance its unemployment insurance. Finally, recommendations are made to provide solutions to the UIA shortcomings identified in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ncamane, Ntando
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Social security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18347 , vital:42254
- Description: The South African Unemployment Insurance system esteems from Social Insurance as a stream of Social Security, which consist of various elements, such as private savings, social assistance and social relief as well as social insurance. The Unemployment Insurance Act 63 of 2001 together with its sister Act, which is the Unemployment Insurance Contribution Act 4 of 2002 regulate South Africa’s unemployment insurance system. The Unemployment Insurance Act made provision for the establishment of the Unemployment Insurance Fund, which will pay unemployment benefits to certain categories of employees for unemployment, illness, maternity, adoption and dependents benefits. The UIA further makes provision for the establishment of the Unemployment Insurance Board and the appointment of the Unemployment Insurance Commissioner. The UIA applies to all employers and employees including domestic workers and seasonal workers, except to employees who work for less than 24 hours a month, employees who are employed on a leanership registered under the Skills Development Act 97 of 1998 and employees employed by the national or provincial government. Although the new Unemployment Insurance Amendment Bill makes provision for workers who were previously excluded from the coverage to be covered under the Amendment Act, these workers includes, workers on learnership, government workers and migrant workers. However, there are still some workers who do not enjoy the scope and application of the UIA those workers are workers working in the informal sector and employees who work less than 24 hours a month and workers who voluntary resign. Apart from the challenge of coverage, the study also examines other challenges faced by the UIA such as non-compliance with international standards, failure to minimise unemployment, discrimination of women against unemployment benefits, the short financial intervention provided by the UIF and the lack of proper dispute resolution mechanism. It is therefore the aim of this study to evaluate the exclusionary practice of the UIA and its repercussions on these certain categories of workers mentioned above. To achieve this abovementioned aim, the study embarks on a journey in which the background is outlined; the historical background of both social security and unemployment insurance including both the constitutional and legislative background (vi) is examined. The study scrutinises the unemployment insurance legal framework this include the structure of the UIF, benefits paid by the UIF, requirements for qualifying for benefits stipulated by the UIA. It goes further in scrutinising these certain categories of workers and other notable challenges of the UIA and UIF. Lastly but not least, an International Perspective and Comparative study is engaged on, so to outline relevant international instrument to the study and to get a better understanding of other countries unemployment insurance system and to enable South Africa to learn from these countries to enhance its unemployment insurance. Finally, recommendations are made to provide solutions to the UIA shortcomings identified in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020