Development role players' knowledge of ecological infrastructure in Eden district, South Africa
- Authors: Crisp, Abigail Gilmour
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa , Environmental management , Coastal engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8725 , vital:26424
- Description: Coastal disasters have been increasing in intensity and frequency around the world causing loss of life and millions of Rands’ worth of damage to infrastructure. Coastal communities are growing as more people are drawn to urban areas. These people depend on the services the coastal ecosystem provide but through degradation and land use change the supply of services is reduced. The ability of these communities and landscapes to bounce back from disturbance has been severely hampered. As a result communities are looking for ways in which they can protect their lives and their assets and become more resilient. Through development planning structures such as coastal foredunes, that offer a buffering capacity against storm surges, can be used to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities. The type of defences used in communities would be dependent on the knowledge of the decision makers. This study explores the discourses and practices that are present in development processes regarding ecological infrastructure (in its buffering capacity for risk reduction) as an option for adaptation to global environmental change in the coastal areas of Eden District. Qualitative data collection and analysis techniques were used. In-depth interviews were used to collect data, which was transformed into frequency data using content analysis. Descriptive statistics was then applied to the coded frequencies. The interpretation of the data was presented alongside the frequency data, via the descriptive statistics and quotations from interviews. It was determined that role players in development processes are aware of the complexities surrounding coastal social-ecological systems and understand the role foredunes play as ecological infrastructure within this system. Those who lack knowledge are aware of their knowledge gaps. Participants believe the study area is at risk due to human impacts and overall, participants felt that there is a general lack of awareness with regard to issues affecting our coastline, compounded by the absence of an enabling environment brought about by a lack of finances and time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Crisp, Abigail Gilmour
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa , Environmental management , Coastal engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8725 , vital:26424
- Description: Coastal disasters have been increasing in intensity and frequency around the world causing loss of life and millions of Rands’ worth of damage to infrastructure. Coastal communities are growing as more people are drawn to urban areas. These people depend on the services the coastal ecosystem provide but through degradation and land use change the supply of services is reduced. The ability of these communities and landscapes to bounce back from disturbance has been severely hampered. As a result communities are looking for ways in which they can protect their lives and their assets and become more resilient. Through development planning structures such as coastal foredunes, that offer a buffering capacity against storm surges, can be used to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities. The type of defences used in communities would be dependent on the knowledge of the decision makers. This study explores the discourses and practices that are present in development processes regarding ecological infrastructure (in its buffering capacity for risk reduction) as an option for adaptation to global environmental change in the coastal areas of Eden District. Qualitative data collection and analysis techniques were used. In-depth interviews were used to collect data, which was transformed into frequency data using content analysis. Descriptive statistics was then applied to the coded frequencies. The interpretation of the data was presented alongside the frequency data, via the descriptive statistics and quotations from interviews. It was determined that role players in development processes are aware of the complexities surrounding coastal social-ecological systems and understand the role foredunes play as ecological infrastructure within this system. Those who lack knowledge are aware of their knowledge gaps. Participants believe the study area is at risk due to human impacts and overall, participants felt that there is a general lack of awareness with regard to issues affecting our coastline, compounded by the absence of an enabling environment brought about by a lack of finances and time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Wireless mobile android technology in the monitoring and control of a safety integrated robotic cell
- Authors: Cumberlege, Aidan
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Android (Electronic resource) , Application software -- Development , Computer software -- Development , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46284 , vital:39543
- Description: The constant strive for improving the efficiency of production processes has become a worldwide challenge. In high speed production facilities response time between man and machine is of utmost importance when financial implications are taken into account. This dissertation contributes to improving the response time by making use of wireless notification between the machine and the maintenance technician when process faults occur. The tool used to achieve this is based on Android. Research is carried out on the latest Android technology while taking the safety aspects of a production environment into consideration. Research in designing a rule based intelligent system is established by using a tablet as the user interface for automatic notification and corrective action recommendations. Quick response is achieved by setting up a wireless network. As a result of designing a wireless intelligent maintenance tool, production downtime is improved. Management can recall all activities logged by the system for graphical representation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Wireless mobile android technology in the monitoring and control of a safety integrated robotic cell
- Authors: Cumberlege, Aidan
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Android (Electronic resource) , Application software -- Development , Computer software -- Development , Mobile computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46284 , vital:39543
- Description: The constant strive for improving the efficiency of production processes has become a worldwide challenge. In high speed production facilities response time between man and machine is of utmost importance when financial implications are taken into account. This dissertation contributes to improving the response time by making use of wireless notification between the machine and the maintenance technician when process faults occur. The tool used to achieve this is based on Android. Research is carried out on the latest Android technology while taking the safety aspects of a production environment into consideration. Research in designing a rule based intelligent system is established by using a tablet as the user interface for automatic notification and corrective action recommendations. Quick response is achieved by setting up a wireless network. As a result of designing a wireless intelligent maintenance tool, production downtime is improved. Management can recall all activities logged by the system for graphical representation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Cost-benefit analysis of land restoration in the Assegaaibos Catchment Area with regard to water yield and tourism benefit
- Authors: Currie, Bianca
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Reclamation of land -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area , Land use -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/726 , Reclamation of land -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area , Land use -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area
- Description: With the emergence of the new field of resource economics, one now has the ability to value and to include natural resources in decision making. This thesis aims to explore the valuation of natural resources by reviewing the economic values, techniques, methods and ecological aspects of restoration. Assegaaibos mountain catchment in the Western Cape Province has been used as a case-study example. A cost-benefit analysis of the restoration of the mountain catchment, in terms of the direct benefits of water and tourism, has been performed. The costs of restoration were observed to see whether they outweighed the benefits (income) derived (water and tourism). The results show that the water and tourism benefits did outweigh the costs of a basic restoration scenario. However, the basic restoration scenario did not fulfil the ecological requirements of the project. The results also illustrated that in the moderate restoration scenario, costs only outweighed the benefits when a three percent discount rate was applied. With the optimistic restoration scenario, costs outweighed benefits only when an eight percent discount rate was used. In the comprehensive restoration scenario, costs were shown to outweigh by far the water and tourism benefits over a thirty-year time frame. However, it should be noted that the deterioration of the environment (accelerated erosion, reinvasion, reduced water quality) was not factored into the costs of failure to rehabilitate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Currie, Bianca
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Reclamation of land -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area , Land use -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/726 , Reclamation of land -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area , Land use -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Assegaaibos Catchment Area
- Description: With the emergence of the new field of resource economics, one now has the ability to value and to include natural resources in decision making. This thesis aims to explore the valuation of natural resources by reviewing the economic values, techniques, methods and ecological aspects of restoration. Assegaaibos mountain catchment in the Western Cape Province has been used as a case-study example. A cost-benefit analysis of the restoration of the mountain catchment, in terms of the direct benefits of water and tourism, has been performed. The costs of restoration were observed to see whether they outweighed the benefits (income) derived (water and tourism). The results show that the water and tourism benefits did outweigh the costs of a basic restoration scenario. However, the basic restoration scenario did not fulfil the ecological requirements of the project. The results also illustrated that in the moderate restoration scenario, costs only outweighed the benefits when a three percent discount rate was applied. With the optimistic restoration scenario, costs outweighed benefits only when an eight percent discount rate was used. In the comprehensive restoration scenario, costs were shown to outweigh by far the water and tourism benefits over a thirty-year time frame. However, it should be noted that the deterioration of the environment (accelerated erosion, reinvasion, reduced water quality) was not factored into the costs of failure to rehabilitate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Factors affecting the acceptance and meaningful use of picture archive and communication systems by referring clinicians in private practice
- Authors: D'Assonville, Gustav Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Picture archiving and communication systems in medicine , Imaging systems in medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4688 , vital:20648
- Description: A Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS) is a health information technology that facilitates the electronic storage, transmission, presentation and processing of digital medical-imaging datasets. The benefits of PACS have been well-documented. It provides a means to replace traditional film-based workflows and their inherent limitations. Referring clinicians’ acceptance is a critical factor in the overall success of a PACS implementation; and given the financial implications of project failure, research into physician acceptance and meaningful use is crucial. Very few PACS acceptance studies have focused on the referring clinicians, and even less in the context of the private sector. Therefore, the problem that this research aims to address is: There is a lack of understanding on which factors influence PACS acceptance and the meaningful use thereof by referring clinicians in private practice. This explorative study follows an embedded mixed methodology approach in order to meet the research objectives, favouring a qualitative method of inquiry with the support of a quantitative strand. Electronic questionnaires were distributed to private practice referring clinicians to probe the aspects related to PACS acceptance and its meaningful use. The conceptual framework, as devised by Paré and Trudel (2007), was used as a theoretical lens to categorize and discuss the research results in terms of Project, Technological, Organizational and Behavioural factors that affect PACS acceptance and its meaningful use. The findings showed good acceptance rates, which is in line with other research conducted in this field, including research done in the public sector. Technical and Organizational factors were the most prevalent. An extension of the above-mentioned theoretical framework was proposed to assist in maintaining positive results after the project Implementation phase has been completed. This research expands the Information Technology PACS body of knowledge – by identifying both the technical and the non-technical factors that are crucial in private practice referring doctor acceptance and meaningful use. By addressing these factors, institutions can improve the likelihood of PACS project success in private practice settings. Maximising referring doctor acceptance and meaningful use could also give private practices a competitive advantage over their competitors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: D'Assonville, Gustav Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Picture archiving and communication systems in medicine , Imaging systems in medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4688 , vital:20648
- Description: A Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS) is a health information technology that facilitates the electronic storage, transmission, presentation and processing of digital medical-imaging datasets. The benefits of PACS have been well-documented. It provides a means to replace traditional film-based workflows and their inherent limitations. Referring clinicians’ acceptance is a critical factor in the overall success of a PACS implementation; and given the financial implications of project failure, research into physician acceptance and meaningful use is crucial. Very few PACS acceptance studies have focused on the referring clinicians, and even less in the context of the private sector. Therefore, the problem that this research aims to address is: There is a lack of understanding on which factors influence PACS acceptance and the meaningful use thereof by referring clinicians in private practice. This explorative study follows an embedded mixed methodology approach in order to meet the research objectives, favouring a qualitative method of inquiry with the support of a quantitative strand. Electronic questionnaires were distributed to private practice referring clinicians to probe the aspects related to PACS acceptance and its meaningful use. The conceptual framework, as devised by Paré and Trudel (2007), was used as a theoretical lens to categorize and discuss the research results in terms of Project, Technological, Organizational and Behavioural factors that affect PACS acceptance and its meaningful use. The findings showed good acceptance rates, which is in line with other research conducted in this field, including research done in the public sector. Technical and Organizational factors were the most prevalent. An extension of the above-mentioned theoretical framework was proposed to assist in maintaining positive results after the project Implementation phase has been completed. This research expands the Information Technology PACS body of knowledge – by identifying both the technical and the non-technical factors that are crucial in private practice referring doctor acceptance and meaningful use. By addressing these factors, institutions can improve the likelihood of PACS project success in private practice settings. Maximising referring doctor acceptance and meaningful use could also give private practices a competitive advantage over their competitors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Factors impacting the introduction of information technology usage in netball coaching
- Authors: Daniell, Janine
- Subjects: Information technology , Netball -- Coaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9828 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020878
- Description: With the growth in the use of technology in sports, there has been an improvement in sporting performances. Some may argue that the two go hand in hand, while others will write it off as coincidence. Nevertheless the use of technology in sport is seen on a daily basis. Cricket uses Hotspot, tennis uses Hawk-Eye and rugby uses slow motion video replays. In these sports codes, technology is already an aid to umpires. Little is known, however, about the technologies used to assist coaches in sports codes such as netball. This study investigated the factors impacting the introduction of information technology in the coaching of netball. The study commenced with using the term technology in the broader sense of the word to gain an understanding from netball coaches as to how technology could be incorporated into the sport. It was later narrowed down more specifically to computer technologies. The investigation was done at the Spar National Netball Championships in 2012, where coaches were surveyed about the preparation for the tournament of the provincial teams. The surveys included questions to coaches regarding the technologies used in preparation for a national tournament. The results obtained from the coaches were used to identify the current technologies used. Interviews were conducted after the analysis of the initial results to probe into the potential use of social media as a tool to assist coaches. Based on the results of the study, a number of factors that impact on the introduction of technology in the coaching of netball were identified. The factors and basic guidelines were validated through expert focus groups. Based on the findings from the experts, the factors and guidelines were refined. It is envisaged that the findings from this research can be used to assist netball coaches in deciding how to introduce the use of information technology into the sport.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Daniell, Janine
- Subjects: Information technology , Netball -- Coaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9828 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020878
- Description: With the growth in the use of technology in sports, there has been an improvement in sporting performances. Some may argue that the two go hand in hand, while others will write it off as coincidence. Nevertheless the use of technology in sport is seen on a daily basis. Cricket uses Hotspot, tennis uses Hawk-Eye and rugby uses slow motion video replays. In these sports codes, technology is already an aid to umpires. Little is known, however, about the technologies used to assist coaches in sports codes such as netball. This study investigated the factors impacting the introduction of information technology in the coaching of netball. The study commenced with using the term technology in the broader sense of the word to gain an understanding from netball coaches as to how technology could be incorporated into the sport. It was later narrowed down more specifically to computer technologies. The investigation was done at the Spar National Netball Championships in 2012, where coaches were surveyed about the preparation for the tournament of the provincial teams. The surveys included questions to coaches regarding the technologies used in preparation for a national tournament. The results obtained from the coaches were used to identify the current technologies used. Interviews were conducted after the analysis of the initial results to probe into the potential use of social media as a tool to assist coaches. Based on the results of the study, a number of factors that impact on the introduction of technology in the coaching of netball were identified. The factors and basic guidelines were validated through expert focus groups. Based on the findings from the experts, the factors and guidelines were refined. It is envisaged that the findings from this research can be used to assist netball coaches in deciding how to introduce the use of information technology into the sport.
- Full Text:
The development of a science competency test for technikon students
- Authors: Davids, Samiega
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/87 , Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Description: In the mid-1980’s institutions of higher learning were coerced by the South African government to admit students from all races. As a result, these institutions were confronted with the need to identify preparedness for higher learning, especially amongst the ex-Department of Education and Training (DET) learners. Grade 12 results were not a sufficient predictor for ex-DET learners, and a review of current admission criteria became a necessity. This study aims to develop a suitable science entry-level test to be used as a component of an existing test battery. The test battery is used as an admission tool by the Port Elizabeth Technikon to further assess first year applicants who do not meet the normal entrance requirements for a science course. The only requirement for further assessment being Grade 12 physical science. The science entry-level test consists of a list of validated science skills and knowledge to be used to assess the skills and knowledge mastered at the time of test taking. On the basis of test scores, an assessment is made regarding the applicant’s preparedness for higher learning. This study holds the view that preparedness in students for higher learning in science can be measured by means of valid science competencies. In addition, knowledge of the level of preparedness of the applicant enables further educational support and guidance to be provided where necessary. Research which measures manifest academic ability rather than potential to learn is favoured since it is believed that the former generates psychometric evidence of that which was already mastered academically whilst the latter determines whether the student will be able to achieve under ideal conditions. The content covered by the proposed Science Competency Test was sanctioned by technikon lecturers of first year physics and chemistry courses. The content was taken from the examinable section of the Grade 11 and 12 physical science syllabi. This content is the most acceptable and fair knowledge-base a prospective science student can be expected to have mastered at school. The content was limited to those skills and knowledge believed by the lecturers to contribute to academic success in the first year. Items that tested this content were compiled and pilot tests were administered to Grade 12 physical science learners at various disadvantaged schools. The Science Competency Test was compiled from the pool of trial items after the performance of the items was statistically determined. This final Science Competency Test was completed by a sample of 179 first-time first year science students. The findings of the study were inconclusive as the Science Competency Test showed a moderate predictive ability for only one section of the sample. It further showed that the weighted matric score, WMS was not a significant predictor of future academic performance of the sample either. A discrepancy in performance amongst learners of different home languages and educational backgrounds was also noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Davids, Samiega
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/87 , Science -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Entrance requirements , Port Elizabeth Technikon Entrance requirements
- Description: In the mid-1980’s institutions of higher learning were coerced by the South African government to admit students from all races. As a result, these institutions were confronted with the need to identify preparedness for higher learning, especially amongst the ex-Department of Education and Training (DET) learners. Grade 12 results were not a sufficient predictor for ex-DET learners, and a review of current admission criteria became a necessity. This study aims to develop a suitable science entry-level test to be used as a component of an existing test battery. The test battery is used as an admission tool by the Port Elizabeth Technikon to further assess first year applicants who do not meet the normal entrance requirements for a science course. The only requirement for further assessment being Grade 12 physical science. The science entry-level test consists of a list of validated science skills and knowledge to be used to assess the skills and knowledge mastered at the time of test taking. On the basis of test scores, an assessment is made regarding the applicant’s preparedness for higher learning. This study holds the view that preparedness in students for higher learning in science can be measured by means of valid science competencies. In addition, knowledge of the level of preparedness of the applicant enables further educational support and guidance to be provided where necessary. Research which measures manifest academic ability rather than potential to learn is favoured since it is believed that the former generates psychometric evidence of that which was already mastered academically whilst the latter determines whether the student will be able to achieve under ideal conditions. The content covered by the proposed Science Competency Test was sanctioned by technikon lecturers of first year physics and chemistry courses. The content was taken from the examinable section of the Grade 11 and 12 physical science syllabi. This content is the most acceptable and fair knowledge-base a prospective science student can be expected to have mastered at school. The content was limited to those skills and knowledge believed by the lecturers to contribute to academic success in the first year. Items that tested this content were compiled and pilot tests were administered to Grade 12 physical science learners at various disadvantaged schools. The Science Competency Test was compiled from the pool of trial items after the performance of the items was statistically determined. This final Science Competency Test was completed by a sample of 179 first-time first year science students. The findings of the study were inconclusive as the Science Competency Test showed a moderate predictive ability for only one section of the sample. It further showed that the weighted matric score, WMS was not a significant predictor of future academic performance of the sample either. A discrepancy in performance amongst learners of different home languages and educational backgrounds was also noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The identification of operations strategies based on business principles that will enhance the public sector's ability to retain its client departments
- Authors: Davids, Shahied
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Public Works Department , Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006192 , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Public Works Department , Customer services
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to identify operational strategies that will enhance the ability of National Public Works Department (NPWD) of the Eastern Cape to retain its Client Departments. Privatisation has lead to performance management becoming essential to satisfy the client departments needs and requirements. In order to identify operational strategies which will enhance NPWD’s operation’s performance, questionnaires with relevant operation questions were used as well as a brain-writing session. The findings of the literature survey clearly highlight the specific areas where attention is required for improvements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Davids, Shahied
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Public Works Department , Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006192 , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Public Works Department , Customer services
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to identify operational strategies that will enhance the ability of National Public Works Department (NPWD) of the Eastern Cape to retain its Client Departments. Privatisation has lead to performance management becoming essential to satisfy the client departments needs and requirements. In order to identify operational strategies which will enhance NPWD’s operation’s performance, questionnaires with relevant operation questions were used as well as a brain-writing session. The findings of the literature survey clearly highlight the specific areas where attention is required for improvements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
A framework for implementing bring your own device in higher education institutions in South Africa
- Authors: De Kock, Ryan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7191 , vital:21300
- Description: Although the concept of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) was only first introduced in 2009, organisations and higher education institutions have shown an increasing interest in and tolerance for employees and students using their own mobile devices for work and academic purposes, to such an extent that it is predicted that BYOD will become the leading practice for all educational environments by the year 2017. Although mobile device usage is increasing in higher education institutions, it has been found that currently no generally recognised framework exists to aid South African higher education institutions with the implementation of BYOD. The problem is further worsened as research suggests that the number of new mobile vulnerabilities reported each year has increased. The primary objective of this study is to develop a framework for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions in South Africa. This primary objective is divided into several secondary objectives, which collectively aim to address the proposed problem. Therefore, the secondary objectives are to understand BYOD in organisations and the challenges it brings; to determine how BYOD challenges differ in higher education institutions; to determine the key components for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions; to determine the extent to which the BYOD key components relate to a higher education institution in South Africa; and to validate the proposed BYOD framework, verifying its quality, efficacy and utility. At first, a comprehensive literature study is used to determine and understand the benefits, challenges and key components for the implementation of BYOD in both organisations and higher education institutions. Thereafter, a case study is used to determine the extent to which the components, identified in the literature study, relate to an educational institution in South Africa. The findings from the case study, in combination with the key components, are then triangulated and a preliminary framework for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions in South Africa is argued. Furthermore, elite interviews are used to determine the quality, efficacy and utility of the proposed BYOD framework. To address the proposed problem, this research proposes a stepby- step holistic framework to aid South African higher education institutions with the implementation of BYOD. This framework adds a significant contribution to the work on this topic, as it provides a foundation upon which further such research can build. It is believed that such a framework would be useful for higher education institutions in South Africa and would result in the improved implementation of BYOD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: De Kock, Ryan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7191 , vital:21300
- Description: Although the concept of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) was only first introduced in 2009, organisations and higher education institutions have shown an increasing interest in and tolerance for employees and students using their own mobile devices for work and academic purposes, to such an extent that it is predicted that BYOD will become the leading practice for all educational environments by the year 2017. Although mobile device usage is increasing in higher education institutions, it has been found that currently no generally recognised framework exists to aid South African higher education institutions with the implementation of BYOD. The problem is further worsened as research suggests that the number of new mobile vulnerabilities reported each year has increased. The primary objective of this study is to develop a framework for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions in South Africa. This primary objective is divided into several secondary objectives, which collectively aim to address the proposed problem. Therefore, the secondary objectives are to understand BYOD in organisations and the challenges it brings; to determine how BYOD challenges differ in higher education institutions; to determine the key components for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions; to determine the extent to which the BYOD key components relate to a higher education institution in South Africa; and to validate the proposed BYOD framework, verifying its quality, efficacy and utility. At first, a comprehensive literature study is used to determine and understand the benefits, challenges and key components for the implementation of BYOD in both organisations and higher education institutions. Thereafter, a case study is used to determine the extent to which the components, identified in the literature study, relate to an educational institution in South Africa. The findings from the case study, in combination with the key components, are then triangulated and a preliminary framework for implementing BYOD in higher education institutions in South Africa is argued. Furthermore, elite interviews are used to determine the quality, efficacy and utility of the proposed BYOD framework. To address the proposed problem, this research proposes a stepby- step holistic framework to aid South African higher education institutions with the implementation of BYOD. This framework adds a significant contribution to the work on this topic, as it provides a foundation upon which further such research can build. It is believed that such a framework would be useful for higher education institutions in South Africa and would result in the improved implementation of BYOD.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A framework for information security management in local government
- Authors: De Lange, Joshua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7588 , vital:21932
- Description: Information has become so pervasive within enterprises and everyday life, that it is almost indispensable. This is clear as information has become core to the business operations of any enterprise. Information and communication technology (ICT) systems are heavily relied upon to store, process and transmit this valuable commodity. Due to its immense value, information and related ICT resources have to be adequately protected. This protection of information is commonly referred to as information security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: De Lange, Joshua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7588 , vital:21932
- Description: Information has become so pervasive within enterprises and everyday life, that it is almost indispensable. This is clear as information has become core to the business operations of any enterprise. Information and communication technology (ICT) systems are heavily relied upon to store, process and transmit this valuable commodity. Due to its immense value, information and related ICT resources have to be adequately protected. This protection of information is commonly referred to as information security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Guidelines to establish an e-safety awareness in South Africa
- Authors: De Lange, Mariska
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007863 , Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of almost every individual’s life. Although ICT, particularly the Internet, might offer numerous opportunities, individuals should also be aware of the associated risks. Especially with the younger generations who can be seen as being the most vulnerable to online dangers as they are becoming more involved in online activities. Children are utilizing new technologies from an early age and should know how to keep themselves and others safe whilst accessing the Internet. However, most of them do not have the required knowledge and expertise to protect themselves. This is because, under most circumstances, the parents do not understand their children’s online behaviours and activities and are, therefore, unable to teach their children how to utilize it safe and responsibly. A school can be seen as the perfect place to teach children safe online behaviours. However, there is currently a definite lack of e-Safety in South African schools, because no e-Safety policies are in place and there is little or nothing in curricula with regards to e-Safety. This can lead to additional concerns. The primary objective of this research study is, therefore, to develop, motivate and verify a framework that might contribute towards the development of an e-Safety culture. This e-Safety culture should allow individuals to adapt their behavior towards the secure utilization of ICT. However, for the purpose of this research study, the focus will primarily be on learners from primary and secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: De Lange, Mariska
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007863 , Internet and children--Safety measures , Internet in education , Online etiquette
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of almost every individual’s life. Although ICT, particularly the Internet, might offer numerous opportunities, individuals should also be aware of the associated risks. Especially with the younger generations who can be seen as being the most vulnerable to online dangers as they are becoming more involved in online activities. Children are utilizing new technologies from an early age and should know how to keep themselves and others safe whilst accessing the Internet. However, most of them do not have the required knowledge and expertise to protect themselves. This is because, under most circumstances, the parents do not understand their children’s online behaviours and activities and are, therefore, unable to teach their children how to utilize it safe and responsibly. A school can be seen as the perfect place to teach children safe online behaviours. However, there is currently a definite lack of e-Safety in South African schools, because no e-Safety policies are in place and there is little or nothing in curricula with regards to e-Safety. This can lead to additional concerns. The primary objective of this research study is, therefore, to develop, motivate and verify a framework that might contribute towards the development of an e-Safety culture. This e-Safety culture should allow individuals to adapt their behavior towards the secure utilization of ICT. However, for the purpose of this research study, the focus will primarily be on learners from primary and secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An exploration of the materiality of forged steel as medium for visual artists
- Authors: De Lange, Neil
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blacksmithing , Art -- 21st century Art -- Sculpture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39425 , vital:35245
- Description: This research is an exploration into the materiality of forged steel, and is aimed at the preservation of traditional blacksmith forging techniques and methods by incorporating these methods as added skill set during the making of three dimensional visual art. An investigation into the history of traditional forging (iron works) serves as background aimed at the identification of the various techniques and methods utilized during the processes found in traditional blacksmith forging. The practice of this research consists of three parts: firstly, a textual investigation to establish the basics (note taking- visual journal); secondly, practical exercises to gain a better understanding of the behaviour of various steels by utilizing traditional methods of forging to explore the potential applications for the forge as a tool in service of the visual arts; and lastly, reflection on the process to modify and adapt processes (methods and techniques) to promote further interest in the use of a forge as tool during the making of three-dimensional visual art.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: De Lange, Neil
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blacksmithing , Art -- 21st century Art -- Sculpture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39425 , vital:35245
- Description: This research is an exploration into the materiality of forged steel, and is aimed at the preservation of traditional blacksmith forging techniques and methods by incorporating these methods as added skill set during the making of three dimensional visual art. An investigation into the history of traditional forging (iron works) serves as background aimed at the identification of the various techniques and methods utilized during the processes found in traditional blacksmith forging. The practice of this research consists of three parts: firstly, a textual investigation to establish the basics (note taking- visual journal); secondly, practical exercises to gain a better understanding of the behaviour of various steels by utilizing traditional methods of forging to explore the potential applications for the forge as a tool in service of the visual arts; and lastly, reflection on the process to modify and adapt processes (methods and techniques) to promote further interest in the use of a forge as tool during the making of three-dimensional visual art.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Investigating the effects of mopane worms (Imbrasia belina) on nutrients, Venetia-Limpopo Nature Reserve, South Africa
- De Swardt, Donovan Barry, O’Connor, Tim
- Authors: De Swardt, Donovan Barry , O’Connor, Tim
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Herbivores -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Phytophagous insects -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Mopane worm -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Soil fertility -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9273 , vital:26558
- Description: Ecologists have long been aware that large mammalian herbivores can alter ecosystem functioning in various ways, for example through changing where they defecate and urinate, which consequently affects nutrient cycling. The effects of herbivorous insects on ecosystems, however, have received limited attention until recently. Insects are capable of mass outbreaks, they can consume large volumes of vegetative material and can deposit large quantities of dung (frass), one example being the mopane worm, Imbrasia belina. This study looked at the effect of mopane worm frass on soil fertility in the mopane veld of the Venetia-Limpopo Nature Reserve and neighbouring Haakdoring farm. It found that mopane worms are capable of altering soil nutrient dynamics beneath the trees where they are browsing in three ways. Firstly, they increase the potential amount of nutrients deposited when compared with that deposited through conventional leaf litter. Secondly, they alter the rate of nutrient recycling by depositing nutrients in frass which decomposes more rapidly than conventional leaf litter. Lastly, they increase the amounts of potassium and phosphorus in the soil. While there is no conclusive data from this study that the mopane veld would become extinct if mopane worms were harvested to extinction, it has shown that there is relatively little evidence on how herbivorous insects could affect ecosystem functioning in the landscapes in which they occur. Further research is recommended that investigates how mopane worms influence soil fertility in more detail and over multiple geographical locations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: De Swardt, Donovan Barry , O’Connor, Tim
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Herbivores -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Phytophagous insects -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Mopane worm -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Soil fertility -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9273 , vital:26558
- Description: Ecologists have long been aware that large mammalian herbivores can alter ecosystem functioning in various ways, for example through changing where they defecate and urinate, which consequently affects nutrient cycling. The effects of herbivorous insects on ecosystems, however, have received limited attention until recently. Insects are capable of mass outbreaks, they can consume large volumes of vegetative material and can deposit large quantities of dung (frass), one example being the mopane worm, Imbrasia belina. This study looked at the effect of mopane worm frass on soil fertility in the mopane veld of the Venetia-Limpopo Nature Reserve and neighbouring Haakdoring farm. It found that mopane worms are capable of altering soil nutrient dynamics beneath the trees where they are browsing in three ways. Firstly, they increase the potential amount of nutrients deposited when compared with that deposited through conventional leaf litter. Secondly, they alter the rate of nutrient recycling by depositing nutrients in frass which decomposes more rapidly than conventional leaf litter. Lastly, they increase the amounts of potassium and phosphorus in the soil. While there is no conclusive data from this study that the mopane veld would become extinct if mopane worms were harvested to extinction, it has shown that there is relatively little evidence on how herbivorous insects could affect ecosystem functioning in the landscapes in which they occur. Further research is recommended that investigates how mopane worms influence soil fertility in more detail and over multiple geographical locations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The influence of student engagement on the academic success of first-year human resource management diploma students
- Authors: De Villiers, Bridget
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Academic achievement -- South Africa , College freshmen -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Universities and colleges -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9391 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020792
- Description: Student success rates in South African higher education institutions are unacceptable. There are many contextual challenges facing these institutions, some as a result of the legacy of the apartheid educational system and some related to the challenges surrounding increased access to higher education. The impact in terms of the costs associated with re-educating students and the added pressure of readmitting failed students into continually growing classes, are substantial. In addition, there is a growing contention that the level of preparedness of students is declining. All of these challenges place immense pressure on academics to support students and ensure acceptable pass rates. There are numerous factors, both academic and non-academic, which have an influence on academic success including prior academic achievement, the academic experience, institutional expectations and commitment, finances, family support and university support services. Many factors are beyond the control of higher education. Student engagement, however, appears to be one factor over which educators have some control. Student engagement may be defined as student involvement in educationally purposive activities. For the purposes of this study two main factors contributing to student engagement were explored. Firstly, the amount of time and effort that the student spends on academic and other activities that lead to experiences and outcomes that constitute academic success. This factor was termed “student behaviours”. Secondly, the ways in which the institution allocates resources and organises learning opportunities and services in such a way as to induce the student to participate in and benefit from these activities. This factor was termed “institutional conditions”. The main research problem of this study was to determine the influence of student engagement on the academic success of first-year Human Resource Management (HRM) students at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The main research problem had five sub-problems which were addressed through the following actions: A literature study was conducted, highlighting the challenges faced in higher education, building a case for student engagement and identifying the factors that contribute towards student engagement, more specifically the student behaviours and institutional conditions. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with staff members lecturing first-year HRM diploma students at NMMU, with students registered as second- and third-year HRM diploma students, and with a staff member of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Media (CTLM) at NMMU, to obtain their views on the nature of student engagement and its impact on academic success, as well as the student behaviours and institutional conditions that contribute towards student engagement. The insights gained from the literature survey and the interviews were incorporated into a survey questionnaire which was developed for use in the empirical study to identify the existence and levels of the student behaviours and perceived institutional conditions that contributed towards student engagement among HRM diploma students who were in their first year of study at NMMU in 2012. The final year marks achieved by these HRM diploma students in their first year of study were obtained and correlated with the levels of engagement identified as part of the empirical study. The results of the study revealed that the respondents demonstrated a fair range of the student behaviours which are conducive to promoting student engagement. Their perception of the existence of institutional conditions conducive to promoting student engagement was good. The results also revealed a significant positive correlation between the average final year mark and “student-staff interaction” for both student behaviours and institutional conditions. A significant relationship was revealed between student behaviours and institutional conditions related to “academic focus”, “student-staff interaction” and “social integration”. In exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables and academic success, living arrangements emerged as an important consideration in promoting academic success as all the respondents who failed, lived far from the university. First generation learners were found not to achieve the levels of success of their peers who have had exposure to family members and significant others with tertiary experience. Overall the importance of good relationships between students and staff in promoting engagement and ensuring academic success emerged as an important factor. The importance of improving student success rates should be of paramount importance to all educators. The factors contributing towards student success are numerous and vast. Educators who understand the nature of student engagement and are aware of the student behaviours and institutional conditions that can be promoted in the higher education setting to improve engagement could become more effective in improving student success rates. Their efforts could be further enhanced if students are made aware of how their behaviour, understanding and utilisation of the resources, learning opportunities and services provided by the institution, can positively influence their academic success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: De Villiers, Bridget
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Academic achievement -- South Africa , College freshmen -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Universities and colleges -- Curricula -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9391 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020792
- Description: Student success rates in South African higher education institutions are unacceptable. There are many contextual challenges facing these institutions, some as a result of the legacy of the apartheid educational system and some related to the challenges surrounding increased access to higher education. The impact in terms of the costs associated with re-educating students and the added pressure of readmitting failed students into continually growing classes, are substantial. In addition, there is a growing contention that the level of preparedness of students is declining. All of these challenges place immense pressure on academics to support students and ensure acceptable pass rates. There are numerous factors, both academic and non-academic, which have an influence on academic success including prior academic achievement, the academic experience, institutional expectations and commitment, finances, family support and university support services. Many factors are beyond the control of higher education. Student engagement, however, appears to be one factor over which educators have some control. Student engagement may be defined as student involvement in educationally purposive activities. For the purposes of this study two main factors contributing to student engagement were explored. Firstly, the amount of time and effort that the student spends on academic and other activities that lead to experiences and outcomes that constitute academic success. This factor was termed “student behaviours”. Secondly, the ways in which the institution allocates resources and organises learning opportunities and services in such a way as to induce the student to participate in and benefit from these activities. This factor was termed “institutional conditions”. The main research problem of this study was to determine the influence of student engagement on the academic success of first-year Human Resource Management (HRM) students at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The main research problem had five sub-problems which were addressed through the following actions: A literature study was conducted, highlighting the challenges faced in higher education, building a case for student engagement and identifying the factors that contribute towards student engagement, more specifically the student behaviours and institutional conditions. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with staff members lecturing first-year HRM diploma students at NMMU, with students registered as second- and third-year HRM diploma students, and with a staff member of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Media (CTLM) at NMMU, to obtain their views on the nature of student engagement and its impact on academic success, as well as the student behaviours and institutional conditions that contribute towards student engagement. The insights gained from the literature survey and the interviews were incorporated into a survey questionnaire which was developed for use in the empirical study to identify the existence and levels of the student behaviours and perceived institutional conditions that contributed towards student engagement among HRM diploma students who were in their first year of study at NMMU in 2012. The final year marks achieved by these HRM diploma students in their first year of study were obtained and correlated with the levels of engagement identified as part of the empirical study. The results of the study revealed that the respondents demonstrated a fair range of the student behaviours which are conducive to promoting student engagement. Their perception of the existence of institutional conditions conducive to promoting student engagement was good. The results also revealed a significant positive correlation between the average final year mark and “student-staff interaction” for both student behaviours and institutional conditions. A significant relationship was revealed between student behaviours and institutional conditions related to “academic focus”, “student-staff interaction” and “social integration”. In exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables and academic success, living arrangements emerged as an important consideration in promoting academic success as all the respondents who failed, lived far from the university. First generation learners were found not to achieve the levels of success of their peers who have had exposure to family members and significant others with tertiary experience. Overall the importance of good relationships between students and staff in promoting engagement and ensuring academic success emerged as an important factor. The importance of improving student success rates should be of paramount importance to all educators. The factors contributing towards student success are numerous and vast. Educators who understand the nature of student engagement and are aware of the student behaviours and institutional conditions that can be promoted in the higher education setting to improve engagement could become more effective in improving student success rates. Their efforts could be further enhanced if students are made aware of how their behaviour, understanding and utilisation of the resources, learning opportunities and services provided by the institution, can positively influence their academic success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Towards a user centric model for identity and access management within the online environment
- Authors: Deas, Matthew Burns
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Computers -- Access control , Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/775 , Computers -- Access control , Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Today, one is expected to remember multiple user names and passwords for different domains when one wants to access on the Internet. Identity management seeks to solve this problem through creating a digital identity that is exchangeable across organisational boundaries. Through the setup of collaboration agreements between multiple domains, users can easily switch across domains without being required to sign in again. However, use of this technology comes with risks of user identity and personal information being compromised. Criminals make use of spoofed websites and social engineering techniques to gain illegal access to user information. Due to this, the need for users to be protected from online threats has increased. Two processes are required to protect the user login information at the time of sign-on. Firstly, user’s information must be protected at the time of sign-on, and secondly, a simple method for the identification of the website is required by the user. This treatise looks at the process for identifying and verifying user information, and how the user can verify the system at sign-in. Three models for identity management are analysed, namely the Microsoft .NET Passport, Liberty Alliance Federated Identity for Single Sign-on and the Mozilla TrustBar for system authentication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Deas, Matthew Burns
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Computers -- Access control , Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/775 , Computers -- Access control , Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Today, one is expected to remember multiple user names and passwords for different domains when one wants to access on the Internet. Identity management seeks to solve this problem through creating a digital identity that is exchangeable across organisational boundaries. Through the setup of collaboration agreements between multiple domains, users can easily switch across domains without being required to sign in again. However, use of this technology comes with risks of user identity and personal information being compromised. Criminals make use of spoofed websites and social engineering techniques to gain illegal access to user information. Due to this, the need for users to be protected from online threats has increased. Two processes are required to protect the user login information at the time of sign-on. Firstly, user’s information must be protected at the time of sign-on, and secondly, a simple method for the identification of the website is required by the user. This treatise looks at the process for identifying and verifying user information, and how the user can verify the system at sign-in. Three models for identity management are analysed, namely the Microsoft .NET Passport, Liberty Alliance Federated Identity for Single Sign-on and the Mozilla TrustBar for system authentication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A framework for the corporate governance of ICT in local government
- Delport, Petrus Marthinus Jacobus
- Authors: Delport, Petrus Marthinus Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7015 , vital:21191
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become critical and pervasive in any well-run modern enterprise across all sectors, which include local government. As a result, ICT demands to be managed and governed in a sustainable manner. Therefore, local government should accept the responsibility of implementing good Corporate Governance of ICT (CGICT). Without sound CGICT, ICT is unable to support local government in the achievement of their strategic objectives. This will most likely result in local government not being able to serve the interests of the community. Even though local government is aware of their responsibility regarding CGICT, the Auditor-General reports that their attempts are unsatisfactory, in this regard. This is most probably due to the fact that ample information exists on guiding local government with `what' they should do towards good CGICT, but unfortunately a lack of guidance on `how' to achieve it. Thus, it is imperative for local government to adopt a CGICT framework which provides guidance not only on what they must do towards implementing good CGICT but also on how they should achieve it. In doing so, local government would most likely be able to properly manage and govern ICT and support the needs of the community. Therefore, the aim of this study is to report on research undertaken, in order to assist local government with a CGICT framework that is relevant to their unique environment. Accordingly, this CGICT framework aims to be usable and scallable to the needs of any sized local government entity. As a result, the CGICT framework aims to be simplistic in nature to promote self-implementation of sound CGICT in local government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Delport, Petrus Marthinus Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7015 , vital:21191
- Description: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become critical and pervasive in any well-run modern enterprise across all sectors, which include local government. As a result, ICT demands to be managed and governed in a sustainable manner. Therefore, local government should accept the responsibility of implementing good Corporate Governance of ICT (CGICT). Without sound CGICT, ICT is unable to support local government in the achievement of their strategic objectives. This will most likely result in local government not being able to serve the interests of the community. Even though local government is aware of their responsibility regarding CGICT, the Auditor-General reports that their attempts are unsatisfactory, in this regard. This is most probably due to the fact that ample information exists on guiding local government with `what' they should do towards good CGICT, but unfortunately a lack of guidance on `how' to achieve it. Thus, it is imperative for local government to adopt a CGICT framework which provides guidance not only on what they must do towards implementing good CGICT but also on how they should achieve it. In doing so, local government would most likely be able to properly manage and govern ICT and support the needs of the community. Therefore, the aim of this study is to report on research undertaken, in order to assist local government with a CGICT framework that is relevant to their unique environment. Accordingly, this CGICT framework aims to be usable and scallable to the needs of any sized local government entity. As a result, the CGICT framework aims to be simplistic in nature to promote self-implementation of sound CGICT in local government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Alternative products in the inhibition of te plant pathogen scleroyinia sclerotiorum on potato production
- Authors: Dhliwayo, Tererayi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Potatoes -- Diseases and pests
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10587 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/941 , Potatoes -- Diseases and pests
- Description: White mold caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum attacks a wide host range of broad-leafed plants which includes potatoes. Current control is limited to the use of chemicals, but biological control has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative. For the study, 19 bacterial strains and 18 fungal strains obtained from soil samples taken from a potato field naturally infested with the pathogen S. sclerotiorum were tested for the effects on S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth and sclerotia viability in vitro. A total of eight bacterial strains and six fungal strains proved to be effective in the inhibition of S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth on PDA plate using a dual culture technique. These antagonistic microbes were six Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilis, Bacillus marisflavi, Fusarium solani, Fusarium equiseti, Fusarium chlamydosporum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus insuetus and Penicillium citrinum. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the interaction between S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth and the time after inoculation with a S. sclerotiorum mycelium plug for both bacterial and fungal soil isolates. An additional sclerotia viability test was carried out using four of the eight antagonistic bacteria, and six of the antagonistic fungi. The results showed that two Bacillus species, namely B. pumilis and B. marisflavi can effectively reduce sclerotia viability. The other two bacteria (both B. subtilis), recorded low percentage reduction in sclerotia viability. As for the six antagonistic fungi, the viability test proved to be less effective in determining sclerotia viability. However, the result of this study supports the use of bio-control agents, not only because they are environmentally friendly, but because they are also an effective way of controlling the plant pathogen, S. sclerotiorum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Dhliwayo, Tererayi
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Potatoes -- Diseases and pests
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10587 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/941 , Potatoes -- Diseases and pests
- Description: White mold caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum attacks a wide host range of broad-leafed plants which includes potatoes. Current control is limited to the use of chemicals, but biological control has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative. For the study, 19 bacterial strains and 18 fungal strains obtained from soil samples taken from a potato field naturally infested with the pathogen S. sclerotiorum were tested for the effects on S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth and sclerotia viability in vitro. A total of eight bacterial strains and six fungal strains proved to be effective in the inhibition of S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth on PDA plate using a dual culture technique. These antagonistic microbes were six Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilis, Bacillus marisflavi, Fusarium solani, Fusarium equiseti, Fusarium chlamydosporum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus insuetus and Penicillium citrinum. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the interaction between S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth and the time after inoculation with a S. sclerotiorum mycelium plug for both bacterial and fungal soil isolates. An additional sclerotia viability test was carried out using four of the eight antagonistic bacteria, and six of the antagonistic fungi. The results showed that two Bacillus species, namely B. pumilis and B. marisflavi can effectively reduce sclerotia viability. The other two bacteria (both B. subtilis), recorded low percentage reduction in sclerotia viability. As for the six antagonistic fungi, the viability test proved to be less effective in determining sclerotia viability. However, the result of this study supports the use of bio-control agents, not only because they are environmentally friendly, but because they are also an effective way of controlling the plant pathogen, S. sclerotiorum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Navigating between information security management documents : a modeling methodology
- Authors: Domingues, Steve
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Business -- Data processing -- Security measures , Information resources management -- Security measures , Business -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9761 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1212 , Computer security -- Management , Business -- Data processing -- Security measures , Information resources management -- Security measures , Business -- Standards
- Description: Organizations no longer draft their own standards. Instead, organizations take advantage of the available international standards. One standard may not cover all the organization's needs, requiring organizations to implement more than one standard. The same aspect in an organization may be covered by two or more standards, creating an overlap. An awareness of such overlaps led to various institutions creating mapping documents illustrating how a control from one standard relates to a control from a different standard. The mapping documents are consulted by the end user, to identify how a control in one standard may relate to other standards. This allows the end user to navigate between the standards documents. These mapping documents are valuable to a person who wishes to grasp how different standards deal with a specific control. However, the navigation between standards is a cumbersome task. In order to navigate between the standards the end user is required to consult three or more documents, depending on the number of standards that are mapped to the control being investigated. The need for a tool that will provide fast and efficient navigation between standards was identified. The data tier of the tool is the focus of this dissertation. As a result, this research proposes a modeling methodology that will allow for the modeling of the standards and the information about the mapping between standards, thereby contributing to the creation of tools to aid in the navigation between standards. A comparison between the major data modeling paradigms identifies multi-dimensional modeling as the most appropriate technique to model standards. Adapting an existing modeling methodology to cater for the modeling standards, yield a five step standard modeling methodology. Once modeled, the standards can be physically implemented as a database. The database schema that results from the standard modeling methodology adheres to a specific pattern and can thus be expressed according to well-defined meta-model. This allows for the generation of SQL statements by a tool with limited knowledge of the standards in a way that allows the quick navigation between standards. To determine the usefulness of the standards modeling methodology the research presents iv a prototype that utilizes the well-defined meta-model to navigate between standards. It is shown that, as far as navigation is concerned, no code changes are necessary when adding a new standard or new mappings between standards. This research contributes to the creation of a tool that can easily navigate between standards by providing the ability to model the data tier in such a way that it is extensible, yet remains independent of the application and presentation tiers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Domingues, Steve
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Business -- Data processing -- Security measures , Information resources management -- Security measures , Business -- Standards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9761 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1212 , Computer security -- Management , Business -- Data processing -- Security measures , Information resources management -- Security measures , Business -- Standards
- Description: Organizations no longer draft their own standards. Instead, organizations take advantage of the available international standards. One standard may not cover all the organization's needs, requiring organizations to implement more than one standard. The same aspect in an organization may be covered by two or more standards, creating an overlap. An awareness of such overlaps led to various institutions creating mapping documents illustrating how a control from one standard relates to a control from a different standard. The mapping documents are consulted by the end user, to identify how a control in one standard may relate to other standards. This allows the end user to navigate between the standards documents. These mapping documents are valuable to a person who wishes to grasp how different standards deal with a specific control. However, the navigation between standards is a cumbersome task. In order to navigate between the standards the end user is required to consult three or more documents, depending on the number of standards that are mapped to the control being investigated. The need for a tool that will provide fast and efficient navigation between standards was identified. The data tier of the tool is the focus of this dissertation. As a result, this research proposes a modeling methodology that will allow for the modeling of the standards and the information about the mapping between standards, thereby contributing to the creation of tools to aid in the navigation between standards. A comparison between the major data modeling paradigms identifies multi-dimensional modeling as the most appropriate technique to model standards. Adapting an existing modeling methodology to cater for the modeling standards, yield a five step standard modeling methodology. Once modeled, the standards can be physically implemented as a database. The database schema that results from the standard modeling methodology adheres to a specific pattern and can thus be expressed according to well-defined meta-model. This allows for the generation of SQL statements by a tool with limited knowledge of the standards in a way that allows the quick navigation between standards. To determine the usefulness of the standards modeling methodology the research presents iv a prototype that utilizes the well-defined meta-model to navigate between standards. It is shown that, as far as navigation is concerned, no code changes are necessary when adding a new standard or new mappings between standards. This research contributes to the creation of a tool that can easily navigate between standards by providing the ability to model the data tier in such a way that it is extensible, yet remains independent of the application and presentation tiers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The impact of the global financial crisis on small businesses
- Authors: Dontoni, Jovani Zavatunga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Global Financial Crisis , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021187
- Description: The creation and survival of SMEs largely continues to depend upon access to financing. When a financial crisis in the USA becomes a global economic crisis, SMEs and entrepreneurs all over the world suffer what can be called a double shock; a drop in demand for goods and services and a further tightening in credit terms. It becomes important therefore, to have a strategy on how to tackle the difficulties created by the crisis. Governments are trying to respond by helping to support sales and prevent bankruptcy of SMEs; by increasing access to liquidity, and by helping SMEs to maintain their investment level. Adequate responses of small businesses to the global financial crisis will determine how they will be impacted by the global financial crisis. Many research studies have shown how businesses behave in times of economic abundance. Although over ten economic recessions occurred during the past century, research on the response of businesses to financial challenges remains low. For this reason, the aim of this research was to demonstrate the response of small business owners and managers to the global financial crisis. To achieve this objective, the researcher used an integrated study method, as follows: A systematic literature review of the importance of small businesses in the economy and the implications of the global financial crises in the world and the South African economies. An empirical survey was conducted on small businesses in the Nelson Mandela Bay area in order to demonstrate their response to the global financial crisis. The results of the literature review and the empirical survey allowed the research to come to the conclusion that during times of financial challenges, small businesses decrease the number of people employed (only employ the people needed), increase efficiency through management, and reduce costs through efficient operations. This study contributes to the literature on small business responsive behaviour during times of economic crisis. As a result, this study presents recommendations and suggestions to assist owners and/or managers to respond appropriately to times of financial contraction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dontoni, Jovani Zavatunga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Global Financial Crisis , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9333 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021187
- Description: The creation and survival of SMEs largely continues to depend upon access to financing. When a financial crisis in the USA becomes a global economic crisis, SMEs and entrepreneurs all over the world suffer what can be called a double shock; a drop in demand for goods and services and a further tightening in credit terms. It becomes important therefore, to have a strategy on how to tackle the difficulties created by the crisis. Governments are trying to respond by helping to support sales and prevent bankruptcy of SMEs; by increasing access to liquidity, and by helping SMEs to maintain their investment level. Adequate responses of small businesses to the global financial crisis will determine how they will be impacted by the global financial crisis. Many research studies have shown how businesses behave in times of economic abundance. Although over ten economic recessions occurred during the past century, research on the response of businesses to financial challenges remains low. For this reason, the aim of this research was to demonstrate the response of small business owners and managers to the global financial crisis. To achieve this objective, the researcher used an integrated study method, as follows: A systematic literature review of the importance of small businesses in the economy and the implications of the global financial crises in the world and the South African economies. An empirical survey was conducted on small businesses in the Nelson Mandela Bay area in order to demonstrate their response to the global financial crisis. The results of the literature review and the empirical survey allowed the research to come to the conclusion that during times of financial challenges, small businesses decrease the number of people employed (only employ the people needed), increase efficiency through management, and reduce costs through efficient operations. This study contributes to the literature on small business responsive behaviour during times of economic crisis. As a result, this study presents recommendations and suggestions to assist owners and/or managers to respond appropriately to times of financial contraction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A model for assessing and reporting network performance measurement in SANReN
- Authors: Draai, Kevin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer networks -- Evaluation Network performance (Telecommunication) , Computer networks -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16131 , vital:28326
- Description: The performance measurement of a service provider network is an important activity. It is required for the smooth operation of the network as well as for reporting and planning. SANReN is a service provider tasked with serving the research and education network of South Africa. It currently has no structure or process for determining network performance metrics to measure the performance of its network. The objective of this study is to determine, through a process or structure, which metrics are best suited to the SANReN environment. This study is conducted in 3 phases in order to discover and verify the solution to this problem. The phases are "Contextualisation", "Design",and "Verification". The "Contextualisation" phase includes the literature review. This provides the context for the problem area but also serves as a search function for the solution. This study adopts the design science research paradigm which requires the creation of an artefact. The "Design" phase involves the creation of the conceptual network performance measurement model. This is the artefact and a generalised model for determining the network performance metrics for an NREN. To prove the utility of the model it is implemented in the SANReN environment. This is done in the "Verification" phase. The network performance measurement model proposes a process to determine network performance metrics. This process includes getting NREN requirements and goals, defining the NRENs network design goals through these requirements, define network performance metrics from these goals, evaluating the NRENs monitoring capability, and measuring what is possible. This model provides a starting point for NRENs to determine network performance metrics tailored to its environment. This is done in the SANReN environment as a proof of concept. The utility of the model is shown through the implementation in the SANReN environment thus it can be said that it is generic.The tools that monitor the performance of the SANReN network are used to retrieve network performance data from. Through understanding the requirements, determining network design goals and performance metrics, and determining the gap the retrieving of results took place. These results are analysed and finally aggregated to provide information that feeds into SANReN reporting and planning processes. A template is provided to do the aggregation of metric results. This template provides the structure to enable metrics results aggregation but leaves the categories or labels for the reporting and planning sections blank. These categories are specific to each NREN. At this point SANReN has the aggregated information to use for planning and reporting. The model is verified and thus the study’s main research objective is satisfied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Draai, Kevin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer networks -- Evaluation Network performance (Telecommunication) , Computer networks -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16131 , vital:28326
- Description: The performance measurement of a service provider network is an important activity. It is required for the smooth operation of the network as well as for reporting and planning. SANReN is a service provider tasked with serving the research and education network of South Africa. It currently has no structure or process for determining network performance metrics to measure the performance of its network. The objective of this study is to determine, through a process or structure, which metrics are best suited to the SANReN environment. This study is conducted in 3 phases in order to discover and verify the solution to this problem. The phases are "Contextualisation", "Design",and "Verification". The "Contextualisation" phase includes the literature review. This provides the context for the problem area but also serves as a search function for the solution. This study adopts the design science research paradigm which requires the creation of an artefact. The "Design" phase involves the creation of the conceptual network performance measurement model. This is the artefact and a generalised model for determining the network performance metrics for an NREN. To prove the utility of the model it is implemented in the SANReN environment. This is done in the "Verification" phase. The network performance measurement model proposes a process to determine network performance metrics. This process includes getting NREN requirements and goals, defining the NRENs network design goals through these requirements, define network performance metrics from these goals, evaluating the NRENs monitoring capability, and measuring what is possible. This model provides a starting point for NRENs to determine network performance metrics tailored to its environment. This is done in the SANReN environment as a proof of concept. The utility of the model is shown through the implementation in the SANReN environment thus it can be said that it is generic.The tools that monitor the performance of the SANReN network are used to retrieve network performance data from. Through understanding the requirements, determining network design goals and performance metrics, and determining the gap the retrieving of results took place. These results are analysed and finally aggregated to provide information that feeds into SANReN reporting and planning processes. A template is provided to do the aggregation of metric results. This template provides the structure to enable metrics results aggregation but leaves the categories or labels for the reporting and planning sections blank. These categories are specific to each NREN. At this point SANReN has the aggregated information to use for planning and reporting. The model is verified and thus the study’s main research objective is satisfied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Developing end-user requirements for the design of an eProcurement portal
- Authors: Du Preez, Pedro Gordon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: End-user computing , Government purchasing -- South Africa Business information services Management information systems Business logistics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33272 , vital:32628
- Description: During the 2015 South African budget speech, the country was made aware of the proposed changes to be introduced to the tendering process. These changes were to be implemented from 1 April 2015 and were to span over two years. The changes were to facilitate the transition of the tendering process from a paper- based system to a completely digital process, where the majority of the processes will take place on an eProcurement portal (www.etenders.gov.za). This means that businesses will be obligated to use the portal, in order to access tender opportunities and ultimately, to submit tenders on this portal, with the phasing out of all paper-based tender processes. If the portal is to succeed it has to be well adopted by its users. If the portal is not adopted or is used incorrectly, businesses might struggle to access tender opportunities for their business. This research searches to address this problem by helping the users of this portal to gain efficient and effective access to tendering opportunities, through finding and developing user requirements for successful adoption from a user experience perspective. The primary objective of this research is to develop end-user requirements for the design of an eProcurement portal. To achieve this, a general understanding of the legal policies in place for tendering is necessary, as well as a first-hand experience of the users. Case study research methodology and a mixed method approach are used to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. The case study is conducted in the Eastern Cape and directed at business within the construction sector that do tender, as this research is only focusing on the end user and their roles within the tendering process and not on the government internal tendering processes. The outcome of this research is to offer a list of user requirements that can be used within the design of the eProcurement portal that will function as valuable material towards the adoption and effectiveness of the eProcurement portal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Du Preez, Pedro Gordon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: End-user computing , Government purchasing -- South Africa Business information services Management information systems Business logistics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33272 , vital:32628
- Description: During the 2015 South African budget speech, the country was made aware of the proposed changes to be introduced to the tendering process. These changes were to be implemented from 1 April 2015 and were to span over two years. The changes were to facilitate the transition of the tendering process from a paper- based system to a completely digital process, where the majority of the processes will take place on an eProcurement portal (www.etenders.gov.za). This means that businesses will be obligated to use the portal, in order to access tender opportunities and ultimately, to submit tenders on this portal, with the phasing out of all paper-based tender processes. If the portal is to succeed it has to be well adopted by its users. If the portal is not adopted or is used incorrectly, businesses might struggle to access tender opportunities for their business. This research searches to address this problem by helping the users of this portal to gain efficient and effective access to tendering opportunities, through finding and developing user requirements for successful adoption from a user experience perspective. The primary objective of this research is to develop end-user requirements for the design of an eProcurement portal. To achieve this, a general understanding of the legal policies in place for tendering is necessary, as well as a first-hand experience of the users. Case study research methodology and a mixed method approach are used to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. The case study is conducted in the Eastern Cape and directed at business within the construction sector that do tender, as this research is only focusing on the end user and their roles within the tendering process and not on the government internal tendering processes. The outcome of this research is to offer a list of user requirements that can be used within the design of the eProcurement portal that will function as valuable material towards the adoption and effectiveness of the eProcurement portal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017