53 stitches : sustainability, ecology and social engagement in contemporary art
- Authors: Salton, Bronwen Lauren
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Crocheting Community development -- South Africa Ecology in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2390 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001580
- Description: Through an exploration of both the sculptural and socially-engaged art practices undertaken in creating my Master of Fine Art exhibition, 53 Stitches, I unpack some of the possibilities pertaining to the practice of sustainability, ecology and social engagement in contemporary art. This thesis explores the history and concepts of sustainable development and what the implications are of the far-reaching global consideration of sustainability for contemporary art production. Looking at the writings of Felix Guattari’s (2000 [1989]) and Suzi Gablik’s (1992) on the effects of the economic model of capitalism on our environmental, social and mental ecologies, I discuss the necessary paradigm shift of the artists’ identity from the ‘individual self’ towards the ‘relational self’, affirming our interdependence upon our social and natural environments. With reference to the writings of Maja and Reuben Fowkes (2008), I explore the principles of sustainability in contemporary art and discuss the notion of ‘sustainability of form’ through insight into dematerialisation, recycling and the prospect of artists now becoming knowledge producers/facilitators. This is supportive of my personal exploration and experimentation with recyclable materials as a creative medium, used as a means of knowledge and skills facilitation in socially-engaged arts practice and the process of art-making as research. I refer to the sculptural and ‘painterly’ constructions of Sofi Zezmer and Mbongeni Buthelezi, respectively, as a means to elucidate a practical contextualisation of my practical work, particularly with regard to the use of plastic as a constructive medium. Looking at the works of Linda Weintraub (2006), Marnie Badham (2010) and Miwon Kwon (2002), I expand on the theoretical discourse pertaining to sociallyengaged art practices, and elucidate the reconfiguration of the role of the artist towards now becoming a cultural service administrator, organiser and knowledge facilitator. With reference to Arjen Wals and Johnson et al., I further discuss the role of education in sustainability and explore the necessary reconciliation between university institutions and the social and environmental context in which they are located, in the form of place-based capacity building and service learning. I explore within this thesis the concepts and processbased research of my own sculptures
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Salton, Bronwen Lauren
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Crocheting Community development -- South Africa Ecology in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2390 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001580
- Description: Through an exploration of both the sculptural and socially-engaged art practices undertaken in creating my Master of Fine Art exhibition, 53 Stitches, I unpack some of the possibilities pertaining to the practice of sustainability, ecology and social engagement in contemporary art. This thesis explores the history and concepts of sustainable development and what the implications are of the far-reaching global consideration of sustainability for contemporary art production. Looking at the writings of Felix Guattari’s (2000 [1989]) and Suzi Gablik’s (1992) on the effects of the economic model of capitalism on our environmental, social and mental ecologies, I discuss the necessary paradigm shift of the artists’ identity from the ‘individual self’ towards the ‘relational self’, affirming our interdependence upon our social and natural environments. With reference to the writings of Maja and Reuben Fowkes (2008), I explore the principles of sustainability in contemporary art and discuss the notion of ‘sustainability of form’ through insight into dematerialisation, recycling and the prospect of artists now becoming knowledge producers/facilitators. This is supportive of my personal exploration and experimentation with recyclable materials as a creative medium, used as a means of knowledge and skills facilitation in socially-engaged arts practice and the process of art-making as research. I refer to the sculptural and ‘painterly’ constructions of Sofi Zezmer and Mbongeni Buthelezi, respectively, as a means to elucidate a practical contextualisation of my practical work, particularly with regard to the use of plastic as a constructive medium. Looking at the works of Linda Weintraub (2006), Marnie Badham (2010) and Miwon Kwon (2002), I expand on the theoretical discourse pertaining to sociallyengaged art practices, and elucidate the reconfiguration of the role of the artist towards now becoming a cultural service administrator, organiser and knowledge facilitator. With reference to Arjen Wals and Johnson et al., I further discuss the role of education in sustainability and explore the necessary reconciliation between university institutions and the social and environmental context in which they are located, in the form of place-based capacity building and service learning. I explore within this thesis the concepts and processbased research of my own sculptures
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
[Research projects]
- Authors: Muluse, Lungile J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: History -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Textbooks -- Evaluation History -- Study and teaching South Africa -- History -- Textbooks Toise Senior Secondary School High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1739 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003623
- Description: This study is a situational analysis of a school located at Nonkcampa village, just ten kilometres from King William’s Town, west of the national road between Peddie and King William’s Town. Toise Senior Secondary School is in the former Ciskei region. The Bulembu / Bisho airport is just next to our school. My focus on Toise Senior Secondary School, provides me as the principal of the school with a golden opportunity to find out more about the school. As a relative newcomer to the school this study also enables me to look at the school community, from this particular focal point. As this is a situational analysis, my focus will be on the history, the biophysical and socio-political aspects that influenced the development of the school to the present. In this way I will be able to analyse the school’s readiness to implement the new Out-Comes-Based Education (OBE) Curriculum soon to be implemented at secondary school level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Muluse, Lungile J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: History -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Textbooks -- Evaluation History -- Study and teaching South Africa -- History -- Textbooks Toise Senior Secondary School High schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1739 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003623
- Description: This study is a situational analysis of a school located at Nonkcampa village, just ten kilometres from King William’s Town, west of the national road between Peddie and King William’s Town. Toise Senior Secondary School is in the former Ciskei region. The Bulembu / Bisho airport is just next to our school. My focus on Toise Senior Secondary School, provides me as the principal of the school with a golden opportunity to find out more about the school. As a relative newcomer to the school this study also enables me to look at the school community, from this particular focal point. As this is a situational analysis, my focus will be on the history, the biophysical and socio-political aspects that influenced the development of the school to the present. In this way I will be able to analyse the school’s readiness to implement the new Out-Comes-Based Education (OBE) Curriculum soon to be implemented at secondary school level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
A "lean-led-evaluation" of infrastructure development improvement programme in South Africa
- Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey, Emuze, Fidelis
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey , Emuze, Fidelis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accounting , Construction industry -- South Africa Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44929 , vital:38189
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Monyane, Thabiso Godfrey , Emuze, Fidelis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Accounting , Construction industry -- South Africa Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44929 , vital:38189
- Description: A doctoral study was embarked upon with the intentions of addressing cost management problems encountered on Infrastructure Delivery Projects in South Africa. Given that poor cost performance constitute hindrance to the realization of project goals, it is imperative to eliminate it from project delivery. The prevalence of cost overrun in public sector projects is a call to all stakeholders to address cost management issues in the construction industry. The predominance of cost overruns in public sector construction projects in South Africa has been observed. With the decline of the current economic conditions in South Africa, project performance is a great concern that needs attention. In addition, ineffective initiatives to curb the abuse of the procurement processes are directly affecting the outcomes of construction projects, and if these status quo remains, the sector will continue to have a bad image and continued waste of taxpayers’ money will not cease until the public sector remove non-value adding activities in their operations. Study adopted a mixed methods designed that collected both textual and statistical data. Semistructured interviews were undertaken to determine the outcomes of current project management practices in South Africa. In terms of performance of projects, the status quo paints a disconsolate picture. Findings reveal protracted processes, and the use of unqualified and inexperienced contribute to poor performance of public sector projects. Poor performance continues to dominate the construction sector, especially in the public sector. Interviews data were contrasted with evidence from project-related documents. Based on the data, the study produces a vignette of existing cost management frameworks applied to such projects. Encompassing various stages of the project delivery lifecycle, this vignette will enable an identification of the challenges afflicting cost management on projects. Accordingly, this study identified Lean opportunities from existing cost management practices. Such opportunities will enable identification of effective cost management during project delivery. There appears a need for collaborative cost management practices. Lean tools mentioned for improvement include the 5Whys, the big room, target value design, and the integration of design and construction. A collaborative cost management framework was developed through relevant theories to improve the cost management process of public sector projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A 150 MHz all sky survey with the Precision Array to Probe the Epoch of Reionization
- Authors: Chege, James Kariuki
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Epoch of reionization -- Research , Astronomy -- Observations , Radio interferometers
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/117733 , vital:34556
- Description: The Precision Array to Probe the Epoch of Reionization (PAPER) was built to measure the redshifted 21 cm line of hydrogen from cosmic reionization. Such low frequency observations promise to be the best means of understanding the cosmic dawn; when the first galaxies in the universe formed, and also the Epoch of Reionization; when the intergalactic medium changed from neutral to ionized. The major challenges to these observations is the presence of astrophysical foregrounds that are much brighter than the cosmological signal. Here, I present an all-sky survey at 150 MHz obtained from the analysis of 300 hours of PAPER observations. Particular focus is given to the calibration and imaging techniques that need to deal with the wide field of view of a non-tracking instrument. The survey covers ~ 7000 square degrees of the southern sky. From a sky area of 4400 square degrees out of the total survey area, I extract a catalogue of sources brighter than 4 Jy whose accuracy was tested against the published GLEAM catalogue, leading to a fractional difference rms better than 20%. The catalogue provides an all-sky accurate model of the extragalactic foreground to be used for the calibration of future Epoch of Reionization observations and to be subtracted from the PAPER observations themselves in order to mitigate the foreground contamination.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chege, James Kariuki
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Epoch of reionization -- Research , Astronomy -- Observations , Radio interferometers
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/117733 , vital:34556
- Description: The Precision Array to Probe the Epoch of Reionization (PAPER) was built to measure the redshifted 21 cm line of hydrogen from cosmic reionization. Such low frequency observations promise to be the best means of understanding the cosmic dawn; when the first galaxies in the universe formed, and also the Epoch of Reionization; when the intergalactic medium changed from neutral to ionized. The major challenges to these observations is the presence of astrophysical foregrounds that are much brighter than the cosmological signal. Here, I present an all-sky survey at 150 MHz obtained from the analysis of 300 hours of PAPER observations. Particular focus is given to the calibration and imaging techniques that need to deal with the wide field of view of a non-tracking instrument. The survey covers ~ 7000 square degrees of the southern sky. From a sky area of 4400 square degrees out of the total survey area, I extract a catalogue of sources brighter than 4 Jy whose accuracy was tested against the published GLEAM catalogue, leading to a fractional difference rms better than 20%. The catalogue provides an all-sky accurate model of the extragalactic foreground to be used for the calibration of future Epoch of Reionization observations and to be subtracted from the PAPER observations themselves in order to mitigate the foreground contamination.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A 22 GHz radio telescope
- Authors: Mutch, Laurence Ian
- Date: 1976
- Subjects: Radio telescopes , Paraboloid , Radio astronomy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012919
- Description: This thesis reports on the design, construction, testing and operation of the spectral line and continuum receivers built for the 22 GHz Radio Telescope. First results from 'the telescope were obtained and have been analysed to give an estimate of system efficiency. Tests have been performed on the front end and in particular on the 22 GHz mixer in order to determine the minimum detectable temperature. The Sun, Moon and major planets are sources suitable for antenna alignment and consequently a literature survey of emission at 22 GHz from elements of the Solar system has been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1976
- Authors: Mutch, Laurence Ian
- Date: 1976
- Subjects: Radio telescopes , Paraboloid , Radio astronomy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012919
- Description: This thesis reports on the design, construction, testing and operation of the spectral line and continuum receivers built for the 22 GHz Radio Telescope. First results from 'the telescope were obtained and have been analysed to give an estimate of system efficiency. Tests have been performed on the front end and in particular on the 22 GHz mixer in order to determine the minimum detectable temperature. The Sun, Moon and major planets are sources suitable for antenna alignment and consequently a literature survey of emission at 22 GHz from elements of the Solar system has been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1976
A 22 GHz water maser radiometer
- Authors: Nunn, Brian J
- Date: 1975
- Subjects: Masers , Radiometers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5535 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012987
- Description: This thesis describes the properties of interstellar water maser sources, and other sources near 22 GHz. Calculations based on manufacturer's specifications of the 22 GHz mixer, which was to be used in a water radiometer, and on the size antenna aperture of the proposed antenna aperture, show the viability of constructing such a radiometer for spectral line and continuum work. Various sections of the radiometer were constructed, including the Cassegrain feed system and its support, an intermediate frequency amplifier and buffer, a timing control unit, and a data processor. These units are part of the radiometer, which is almost ready for observations of sources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1975
- Authors: Nunn, Brian J
- Date: 1975
- Subjects: Masers , Radiometers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5535 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012987
- Description: This thesis describes the properties of interstellar water maser sources, and other sources near 22 GHz. Calculations based on manufacturer's specifications of the 22 GHz mixer, which was to be used in a water radiometer, and on the size antenna aperture of the proposed antenna aperture, show the viability of constructing such a radiometer for spectral line and continuum work. Various sections of the radiometer were constructed, including the Cassegrain feed system and its support, an intermediate frequency amplifier and buffer, a timing control unit, and a data processor. These units are part of the radiometer, which is almost ready for observations of sources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1975
A baculovirus-mediated expression system for the analysis of HaSV RNA packaging
- Authors: Mendes, Adriano
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: RNA , Baculoviruses , Helicoverpa armigera , Plasmids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004085 , RNA , Baculoviruses , Helicoverpa armigera , Plasmids
- Description: The Helicoverpa armigera stunt virus (HaSV) is a member of a family of small nonenveloped (+) ssRNA insect viruses currently known as the Tetraviridae. This family is unique in terms of the T=4 quasi-symmetry of its capsid particles and the unusually narrow host range and tissue tropism. Assembly of tetraviral particles has been well characterised and involves the combination of 240 copies of a single capsid precursor protein (VCap) into a procapsid followed by autoproteolytic cleavage to yield the major (β) and minor (γ) capsid subunits within the mature particle. HaSV has two genomic RNAs, RNA 1 encoding the replicase and RNA 2 encoding VCap and p17, the ORF of which lies upstream of and overlaping with the 5’ end of the VCap ORF. Prior to this study, Vlok (2009) used a plasmid expression system to study RNA packaging in HaSV VLPs assembled in Spodoptera frugiperda 9 (Sf9) cells co-expressing p17 and VCap. The study showed that the p17 ORF was required for the packaging of RNA 2 during capsid assembly but it was unclear whether p17 expression was required for packaging. In addition, expression from the transfected plasmids was sub-optimal affecting both the yield of VLPs and the detection of p17. The aim of this study was to use the plasmid system to test whether p17 expression was required for plasmid-derived VLP RNA packaging and then develop a baculovirus-mediated system to test this hypothesis. By using a plasmid in which the start codon of p17 was mutated, it was shown that p17 expression was required for RNA 2 packaging into plasmid-VLPs. For the baculovirus system, four recombinant baculoviruses based upon the pFastBac Dual expression system, were constructed. These included Bac20, expressing wild type RNA 2, Bac21, RNA 2 with p17 silenced, Bac23, RNA 2 and p17 expressed on a separate transcript and Bac24, RNA 2 with p17 silenced plus p17 expressed on a separate transcript. Assembly of VLPs was more efficient using the baculovirus expression system and p17 expression was observed in cells infected with Bac20, Bac23 and Bac24, but not Bac21. In contrast to the plasmid-VLPs, bac-VLPs did not require p17 for the encapsidation of RNA 2. In addition to RNA 2, Bac23 and Bac24 packaged the p17 mRNA transcribed separately from RNA 2. This insinuated that bac-VLPs may be packaging RNA non-selectively. It was proposed that p17 may play a role in packaging in an RNA-limiting environment (plasmid system) but functioned differently when viral RNA was in excess (baculovirus system). This data points to the importance of developing a replication system for the analysis of the packaging pathways of these viruses and this study has laid down the foundations for such a system in which RNA 1 and RNA 2 can be introduced into a single cell by means of a single recombinant virus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mendes, Adriano
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: RNA , Baculoviruses , Helicoverpa armigera , Plasmids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4025 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004085 , RNA , Baculoviruses , Helicoverpa armigera , Plasmids
- Description: The Helicoverpa armigera stunt virus (HaSV) is a member of a family of small nonenveloped (+) ssRNA insect viruses currently known as the Tetraviridae. This family is unique in terms of the T=4 quasi-symmetry of its capsid particles and the unusually narrow host range and tissue tropism. Assembly of tetraviral particles has been well characterised and involves the combination of 240 copies of a single capsid precursor protein (VCap) into a procapsid followed by autoproteolytic cleavage to yield the major (β) and minor (γ) capsid subunits within the mature particle. HaSV has two genomic RNAs, RNA 1 encoding the replicase and RNA 2 encoding VCap and p17, the ORF of which lies upstream of and overlaping with the 5’ end of the VCap ORF. Prior to this study, Vlok (2009) used a plasmid expression system to study RNA packaging in HaSV VLPs assembled in Spodoptera frugiperda 9 (Sf9) cells co-expressing p17 and VCap. The study showed that the p17 ORF was required for the packaging of RNA 2 during capsid assembly but it was unclear whether p17 expression was required for packaging. In addition, expression from the transfected plasmids was sub-optimal affecting both the yield of VLPs and the detection of p17. The aim of this study was to use the plasmid system to test whether p17 expression was required for plasmid-derived VLP RNA packaging and then develop a baculovirus-mediated system to test this hypothesis. By using a plasmid in which the start codon of p17 was mutated, it was shown that p17 expression was required for RNA 2 packaging into plasmid-VLPs. For the baculovirus system, four recombinant baculoviruses based upon the pFastBac Dual expression system, were constructed. These included Bac20, expressing wild type RNA 2, Bac21, RNA 2 with p17 silenced, Bac23, RNA 2 and p17 expressed on a separate transcript and Bac24, RNA 2 with p17 silenced plus p17 expressed on a separate transcript. Assembly of VLPs was more efficient using the baculovirus expression system and p17 expression was observed in cells infected with Bac20, Bac23 and Bac24, but not Bac21. In contrast to the plasmid-VLPs, bac-VLPs did not require p17 for the encapsidation of RNA 2. In addition to RNA 2, Bac23 and Bac24 packaged the p17 mRNA transcribed separately from RNA 2. This insinuated that bac-VLPs may be packaging RNA non-selectively. It was proposed that p17 may play a role in packaging in an RNA-limiting environment (plasmid system) but functioned differently when viral RNA was in excess (baculovirus system). This data points to the importance of developing a replication system for the analysis of the packaging pathways of these viruses and this study has laid down the foundations for such a system in which RNA 1 and RNA 2 can be introduced into a single cell by means of a single recombinant virus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten: a critique of bargain retail practices and homemaking through critical design
- Authors: Hawley, Ami Jessica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stores, Retail -- Designs and plans -- South Africa , Interior decoration -- South Africa House furnishings -- South Africa -- 20th century Furniture -- South Africa Store decoration Interior architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40349 , vital:36146
- Description: Although bargains commonly manifest as loud advertisements and trivial objects, as a moment of exchange they provide a basis to critique economic relations and judgements of taste. This research presents a document study of “bargains” in the context of bargain retail practices and homemaking, illustrated in the case of OK Furniture in South Africa; further situated by Julier’s study of economy and class within design culture, and Bourdieu’s fields of cultural production. The investigation builds to a discussion of the research practice, alluded to in the research project’s title, “A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten”. The title is an entry from this practice’s journal that conveys how the everyday experience of a bargain might find a connection to poetry when its exchange is seen as a performance; as a moment or encounter “unwritten”, capable of generating different modes of meaning and sociability. Using critical design strategies, the research practice explores the manifesting discountproduct cultures and retail practices associated with homes as a way to inhabit richer interpersonal relationships and unscripted sociability. This is discussed through four critical design proposals and 26 thought experiments, resulting in Text me when you see this, an online concept store that sells bargains, personal agreements, quality time, conversation and curio: www.textmewhenyouseethis.com. The research explores the limits to a bargain’s economic and emotional exchange by asking What if a bargain represented other forms of sociability, and How else might this mode of exchange look? These questions are used in the critique to model critical design towards both poetic expression and pragmatic embodiment of criticality in the project of reflecting on everyday life and what it might “dissolve into”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hawley, Ami Jessica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stores, Retail -- Designs and plans -- South Africa , Interior decoration -- South Africa House furnishings -- South Africa -- 20th century Furniture -- South Africa Store decoration Interior architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40349 , vital:36146
- Description: Although bargains commonly manifest as loud advertisements and trivial objects, as a moment of exchange they provide a basis to critique economic relations and judgements of taste. This research presents a document study of “bargains” in the context of bargain retail practices and homemaking, illustrated in the case of OK Furniture in South Africa; further situated by Julier’s study of economy and class within design culture, and Bourdieu’s fields of cultural production. The investigation builds to a discussion of the research practice, alluded to in the research project’s title, “A bargain that dissolves into a poem unwritten”. The title is an entry from this practice’s journal that conveys how the everyday experience of a bargain might find a connection to poetry when its exchange is seen as a performance; as a moment or encounter “unwritten”, capable of generating different modes of meaning and sociability. Using critical design strategies, the research practice explores the manifesting discountproduct cultures and retail practices associated with homes as a way to inhabit richer interpersonal relationships and unscripted sociability. This is discussed through four critical design proposals and 26 thought experiments, resulting in Text me when you see this, an online concept store that sells bargains, personal agreements, quality time, conversation and curio: www.textmewhenyouseethis.com. The research explores the limits to a bargain’s economic and emotional exchange by asking What if a bargain represented other forms of sociability, and How else might this mode of exchange look? These questions are used in the critique to model critical design towards both poetic expression and pragmatic embodiment of criticality in the project of reflecting on everyday life and what it might “dissolve into”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A baseline for information security knowledge for end users
- Authors: Boshoff, Ryno
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Data protection -- Management , Computer security -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013260
- Description: Information plays a vast contributing role to all resources within an organisation. Organisations should recognise the importance of information and implement information security controls to protect their information as this will ensure that the organisation‟s information retains its confidentiality, integrity and availability. Information security controls, which are the means of managing information risks, rely heavily on the user‟s knowledge regarding the use of these controls for their effectiveness, and as such, users should be educated in order to maximise effectiveness of these controls. Current information security educational programmes are created without necessarily taking into account the target audience, who comprises of all employees, stakeholders, suppliers, third parties, customers or other external parties or third party that requires access to the organisation‟s information. This results in programmes that are not linguistically appropriate; or that present knowledge at an inappropriate level for the target audience. This could leave users bored or confused, without successfully changing their behaviour or improving knowledge. This dissertation identifies a baseline for information security knowledge targeted at end users. This was done by means of a Delphi Study, where a profile of “generic” end users comprised of information security topics and concepts were rated by experts from the field of information security education. This resulted in the elimination of inappropriate topics and concepts and retaining the relevant and appropriate aspects. This baseline for information security knowledge can be characterised as a minimum standard that everybody should be educated on as an introductory or refresher course. This can also serve as the foundation phase to educate end users with knowledge of the basic topics and concepts to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities in order to protect information. If needed, topics and concepts could be added to the baseline for information security knowledge for specialised target audiences (e.g. specialised End Users, ICT Staff or Top Management).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Boshoff, Ryno
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Data protection -- Management , Computer security -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013260
- Description: Information plays a vast contributing role to all resources within an organisation. Organisations should recognise the importance of information and implement information security controls to protect their information as this will ensure that the organisation‟s information retains its confidentiality, integrity and availability. Information security controls, which are the means of managing information risks, rely heavily on the user‟s knowledge regarding the use of these controls for their effectiveness, and as such, users should be educated in order to maximise effectiveness of these controls. Current information security educational programmes are created without necessarily taking into account the target audience, who comprises of all employees, stakeholders, suppliers, third parties, customers or other external parties or third party that requires access to the organisation‟s information. This results in programmes that are not linguistically appropriate; or that present knowledge at an inappropriate level for the target audience. This could leave users bored or confused, without successfully changing their behaviour or improving knowledge. This dissertation identifies a baseline for information security knowledge targeted at end users. This was done by means of a Delphi Study, where a profile of “generic” end users comprised of information security topics and concepts were rated by experts from the field of information security education. This resulted in the elimination of inappropriate topics and concepts and retaining the relevant and appropriate aspects. This baseline for information security knowledge can be characterised as a minimum standard that everybody should be educated on as an introductory or refresher course. This can also serve as the foundation phase to educate end users with knowledge of the basic topics and concepts to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities in order to protect information. If needed, topics and concepts could be added to the baseline for information security knowledge for specialised target audiences (e.g. specialised End Users, ICT Staff or Top Management).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A baseline study of teacher and learner perspectives of language demands in science classrooms in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Woods, Tracey
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Language arts -- Correlation with content subjects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Interpersonal communication -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Communication in education -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Communicative competence -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21153 , vital:29451
- Description: Globally, one of the challenges in science education is providing equitable access to increasingly diverse learners in equally diverse learning contexts. In South Africa, science is taught to learners by means of English, which is the preferred language of instruction even if it is only spoken by 9.6% of the South African population. In the Eastern Cape, the majority of the population speak isiXhosa and the minority speak English. Parents of isiXhosa-speaking children often choose schools where English is the language of learning and teaching (LoLT) as they feel their children will have better career opportunities as English is considered to be the language of economic power. The aim of this study was to determine teachers’ and learners’ perspectives of language in science classrooms. To this end, a baseline study was conducted. A quantitative research method was used and data were collected through questionnaires. The research found that English is the preferred language for teaching and learning, even though the majority of the participants were isiXhosa home-language speakers. In addition, learners in South African whose home language is not English do not have the necessary language skills to cope with the switch to English as LoLT. Science teachers are therefore faced with two distinct challenges: firstly teaching content and secondly teaching the LoLT, if it is not the learners’ home language. The major difficulty experienced by learners when learning science is learning the language of science, as science is regarded as having a language of its own, with its own specific register and discourse. Thus, for many learners, learning the language of science is a challenge as it contains unfamiliar technical words and everyday words that have specialised scientific meanings (e.g. diagrams, procedures, table, current and force). English is seen as the language in which to explore these concepts. A conclusion that can be drawn is that English is regarded as the language in which to learn science thus reflecting the continued hegemony of English.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Woods, Tracey
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Language arts -- Correlation with content subjects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Interpersonal communication -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Communication in education -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Communicative competence -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21153 , vital:29451
- Description: Globally, one of the challenges in science education is providing equitable access to increasingly diverse learners in equally diverse learning contexts. In South Africa, science is taught to learners by means of English, which is the preferred language of instruction even if it is only spoken by 9.6% of the South African population. In the Eastern Cape, the majority of the population speak isiXhosa and the minority speak English. Parents of isiXhosa-speaking children often choose schools where English is the language of learning and teaching (LoLT) as they feel their children will have better career opportunities as English is considered to be the language of economic power. The aim of this study was to determine teachers’ and learners’ perspectives of language in science classrooms. To this end, a baseline study was conducted. A quantitative research method was used and data were collected through questionnaires. The research found that English is the preferred language for teaching and learning, even though the majority of the participants were isiXhosa home-language speakers. In addition, learners in South African whose home language is not English do not have the necessary language skills to cope with the switch to English as LoLT. Science teachers are therefore faced with two distinct challenges: firstly teaching content and secondly teaching the LoLT, if it is not the learners’ home language. The major difficulty experienced by learners when learning science is learning the language of science, as science is regarded as having a language of its own, with its own specific register and discourse. Thus, for many learners, learning the language of science is a challenge as it contains unfamiliar technical words and everyday words that have specialised scientific meanings (e.g. diagrams, procedures, table, current and force). English is seen as the language in which to explore these concepts. A conclusion that can be drawn is that English is regarded as the language in which to learn science thus reflecting the continued hegemony of English.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A baseline survey of channel geomorphology with particular reference to the effects of sediment characteristics on ecosystem health in the Tsitsa River, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Huchzermeyer, Nicholaus Heinrich
- Authors: Huchzermeyer, Nicholaus Heinrich
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fluvial geomorphology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Stream health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , River sediments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Watershed management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Dams -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tsitsa River (South Africa) , Ntabelanga Dam (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/58056 , vital:27040
- Description: Fluvial systems are dynamic systems in which variables in a catchment and river channel affect the morphology of river reaches. South African rivers are increasingly being exposed to stresses from a combination of factors, one of the most prevalent being the impacts of damming rivers which result in varying downstream sediment fluxes and flow regimes. The sediment load combined with flow characteristics for respective river channels provides the physical habitat for aquatic ecosystems. The damming of the Tsitsa River, through the construction of the Ntabelanga Dam, will change the overall downstream geomorphology. This creates an opportunity for research in the preconstruction window. The current condition of the Tsitsa River was monitored by completing a baseline survey of the channel geomorphology with specific reference to the influence of sediment on river habitats and ecosystem health. Five sites were established in variable reaches of the Tsitsa River, with Site 1 located above the proposed Ntabelanga Dam inundation and Sites 2-5 below the proposed dam wall. Each site included a range of features that can be monitored for their response to the dam. Physical variables, water quality and biota were monitored seasonally to note changes in habitat quality. A baseline survey of the present geomorphology and associated instream habitats of the selected reaches was set up by conducting cross-sectional surveys of channel topography, water slope surveys, discharge measurements and visual and quantitative assessments of substrate. Level loggers were installed at each site to collect continuous data on variations in depth and temperature. Monitoring surveys, in terms of fine sediment accumulation, were conducted to characterise dynamic habitat arrangements and macroinvertebrate community composition. A taxa related physical habitat score for the Tsitsa River was created. The relationship between water quality, physical and ecological characteristics of the Tsitsa River will aid further research in the area as well as create a better understanding of the influence of sediment on river habitats and ecosystem health. Monitoring sites can be used to monitor the impact of catchment-wide rehabilitation on river health prior to the dam being built. After dam construction, the top site above the dam inundation can still be used as a point to monitor the impact of catchment rehabilitation on ecosystem health in terms of fine sediment accumulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Huchzermeyer, Nicholaus Heinrich
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fluvial geomorphology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Stream health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , River sediments -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Watershed management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Dams -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tsitsa River (South Africa) , Ntabelanga Dam (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/58056 , vital:27040
- Description: Fluvial systems are dynamic systems in which variables in a catchment and river channel affect the morphology of river reaches. South African rivers are increasingly being exposed to stresses from a combination of factors, one of the most prevalent being the impacts of damming rivers which result in varying downstream sediment fluxes and flow regimes. The sediment load combined with flow characteristics for respective river channels provides the physical habitat for aquatic ecosystems. The damming of the Tsitsa River, through the construction of the Ntabelanga Dam, will change the overall downstream geomorphology. This creates an opportunity for research in the preconstruction window. The current condition of the Tsitsa River was monitored by completing a baseline survey of the channel geomorphology with specific reference to the influence of sediment on river habitats and ecosystem health. Five sites were established in variable reaches of the Tsitsa River, with Site 1 located above the proposed Ntabelanga Dam inundation and Sites 2-5 below the proposed dam wall. Each site included a range of features that can be monitored for their response to the dam. Physical variables, water quality and biota were monitored seasonally to note changes in habitat quality. A baseline survey of the present geomorphology and associated instream habitats of the selected reaches was set up by conducting cross-sectional surveys of channel topography, water slope surveys, discharge measurements and visual and quantitative assessments of substrate. Level loggers were installed at each site to collect continuous data on variations in depth and temperature. Monitoring surveys, in terms of fine sediment accumulation, were conducted to characterise dynamic habitat arrangements and macroinvertebrate community composition. A taxa related physical habitat score for the Tsitsa River was created. The relationship between water quality, physical and ecological characteristics of the Tsitsa River will aid further research in the area as well as create a better understanding of the influence of sediment on river habitats and ecosystem health. Monitoring sites can be used to monitor the impact of catchment-wide rehabilitation on river health prior to the dam being built. After dam construction, the top site above the dam inundation can still be used as a point to monitor the impact of catchment rehabilitation on ecosystem health in terms of fine sediment accumulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A Bayesian approach to tilted-ring modelling of galaxies
- Authors: Maina, Eric Kamau
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Bayesian statistical decision theory , Galaxies , Radio astronomy , TiRiFiC (Tilted Ring Fitting Code) , Neutral hydrogen , Spectroscopic data cubes , Galaxy parametrisation
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145783 , vital:38466
- Description: The orbits of neutral hydrogen (H I) gas found in most disk galaxies are circular and also exhibit long-lived warps at large radii where the restoring gravitational forces of the inner disk become weak (Spekkens and Giovanelli 2006). These warps make the tilted-ring model an ideal choice for galaxy parametrisation. Analysis software utilizing the tilted-ring-model can be grouped into two and three-dimensional based software. Józsa et al. (2007b) demonstrated that three dimensional based software is better suited for galaxy parametrisation because it is affected by the effect of beam smearing only by increasing the uncertainty of parameters but not with the notorious systematic effects observed for two-dimensional fitting techniques. TiRiFiC, The Tilted Ring Fitting Code (Józsa et al. 2007b), is a software to construct parameterised models of high-resolution data cubes of rotating galaxies. It uses the tilted-ring model, and with that, a combination of some parameters such as surface brightness, position angle, rotation velocity and inclination, to describe galaxies. TiRiFiC works by directly fitting tilted-ring models to spectroscopic data cubes and hence is not affected by beam smearing or line-of-site-effects, e.g. strong warps. Because of that, the method is unavoidable as an analytic method in future Hi surveys. In the current implementation, though, there are several drawbacks. The implemented optimisers search for local solutions in parameter space only, do not quantify correlations between parameters and cannot find errors of single parameters. In theory, these drawbacks can be overcome by using Bayesian statistics, implemented in Multinest (Feroz et al. 2008), as it allows for sampling a posterior distribution irrespective of its multimodal nature resulting in parameter samples that correspond to the maximum in the posterior distribution. These parameter samples can be used as well to quantify correlations and find errors of single parameters. Since this method employs Bayesian statistics, it also allows the user to leverage any prior information they may have on parameter values.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Maina, Eric Kamau
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Bayesian statistical decision theory , Galaxies , Radio astronomy , TiRiFiC (Tilted Ring Fitting Code) , Neutral hydrogen , Spectroscopic data cubes , Galaxy parametrisation
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145783 , vital:38466
- Description: The orbits of neutral hydrogen (H I) gas found in most disk galaxies are circular and also exhibit long-lived warps at large radii where the restoring gravitational forces of the inner disk become weak (Spekkens and Giovanelli 2006). These warps make the tilted-ring model an ideal choice for galaxy parametrisation. Analysis software utilizing the tilted-ring-model can be grouped into two and three-dimensional based software. Józsa et al. (2007b) demonstrated that three dimensional based software is better suited for galaxy parametrisation because it is affected by the effect of beam smearing only by increasing the uncertainty of parameters but not with the notorious systematic effects observed for two-dimensional fitting techniques. TiRiFiC, The Tilted Ring Fitting Code (Józsa et al. 2007b), is a software to construct parameterised models of high-resolution data cubes of rotating galaxies. It uses the tilted-ring model, and with that, a combination of some parameters such as surface brightness, position angle, rotation velocity and inclination, to describe galaxies. TiRiFiC works by directly fitting tilted-ring models to spectroscopic data cubes and hence is not affected by beam smearing or line-of-site-effects, e.g. strong warps. Because of that, the method is unavoidable as an analytic method in future Hi surveys. In the current implementation, though, there are several drawbacks. The implemented optimisers search for local solutions in parameter space only, do not quantify correlations between parameters and cannot find errors of single parameters. In theory, these drawbacks can be overcome by using Bayesian statistics, implemented in Multinest (Feroz et al. 2008), as it allows for sampling a posterior distribution irrespective of its multimodal nature resulting in parameter samples that correspond to the maximum in the posterior distribution. These parameter samples can be used as well to quantify correlations and find errors of single parameters. Since this method employs Bayesian statistics, it also allows the user to leverage any prior information they may have on parameter values.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A best practice e-learning environment for software training
- Authors: Esterhuyse, Maxine Pier
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Internet in education Computer-assisted instruction Web-based instruction -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12165 , vital:27039
- Description: The incorporation of best practice in e-learning environments can increase the probability of success for companies and learners alike. By identifying and understanding the barriers that potential learners may face when interacting with e-learning products, the potential for e-learning failure may be alleviated. There are a variety of benefits that may be realised by companies incorporating e-learning opportunities into their management strategies. However, certain pedagogical principles, metrics and components need to be investigated and implemented in order for a corporate e-learning environment to be successful. The aim of this research is to prototype and evaluate a practical e-learning environment for software training (eLESTP) with e-learning components consisting of interactive learning objects that can guide the development and management of online training in the corporate context. The eLESTP is based on a theoretical contribution that is conceptualised in the form of an e-learning environment for software training (eLESTT). Hence, this study followed a research methodology that is appropriate for educational technologies, namely the Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology, which was applied in iterative cycles. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected by means of a case study, interviews, a focus group and survey. The proposed eLESTP underwent several iterations of feedback and improvement and the result is a real-world solution to the problem at hand. With the purpose of determining the success of corporate e-learning, the barriers and critical success factors for e-learning as well as evaluation criteria were explored. Interviews, a focus group and a survey were conducted in order to validate the investigated literature in a real-world context. Informal interviews enabled a better understanding of the organisational context of this study. The focus group was conducted with customers who were undergoing face-to-face training using conveyancing software developed by Korbitec. Many of the issues faced by learners identified in literature regarding e-learning in developing countries were identified by the participants from the case study. An e-learning survey was used to gather information regarding the intention of Korbitec’s customers to use e-learning as well as their satisfaction with using e-learning. From the survey, it was found that respondents were positive regarding intention to use and satisfaction toward e-learning usage. DBR Cycle 1: Problem Investigation and Proposal entailed the initial problem investigation by conducting a literature review, focus group and survey. DBR Cycle 2: Design Alternative 1 of this study involved a design alternative for eLESTP, namely Prototype 1. DBR Cycle 3: Design and Evaluate Alternative 2 involved the design and prototyping of Prototype 2 for eLESTP as well as the improvement of Prototype 2 through sub-cycles of testing and refinement. The suggestions for improvement were obtained from the relevant stakeholders at Korbitec who are content developers and subject-matter experts. The criteria used to evaluate the success of eLESTP, including its e-learning components, were synthesised and adapted from literature and a new set of evaluation criteria for e-learning environments in software training contexts was proposed. The evaluated eLESTP consists of the technology basis of the Modular Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle), design guidelines for e-learning components, certification and competency-based training, pedagogical principles and best practice. Overall, eLESTP was positively received by various evaluator groups in formative and summative evaluations. The research results indicate that the use of an e-learning environment for software training purposes was useful and necessary. In support of this Masters dissertation, the following three conference papers have been published and presented at one local conference and two international conferences. In addition, an article has been published in an accredited journal: 1. IDIA 2015, Conference Paper – Zanzibar (Tanzania); 2. Conf-IRM 2016, Conference Paper – Cape Town (South Africa); 3. MCIS 2016, Conference Paper – Cyprus (Europe); and 4. IJIKM 2016, Journal Article.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Esterhuyse, Maxine Pier
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Internet in education Computer-assisted instruction Web-based instruction -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12165 , vital:27039
- Description: The incorporation of best practice in e-learning environments can increase the probability of success for companies and learners alike. By identifying and understanding the barriers that potential learners may face when interacting with e-learning products, the potential for e-learning failure may be alleviated. There are a variety of benefits that may be realised by companies incorporating e-learning opportunities into their management strategies. However, certain pedagogical principles, metrics and components need to be investigated and implemented in order for a corporate e-learning environment to be successful. The aim of this research is to prototype and evaluate a practical e-learning environment for software training (eLESTP) with e-learning components consisting of interactive learning objects that can guide the development and management of online training in the corporate context. The eLESTP is based on a theoretical contribution that is conceptualised in the form of an e-learning environment for software training (eLESTT). Hence, this study followed a research methodology that is appropriate for educational technologies, namely the Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology, which was applied in iterative cycles. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected by means of a case study, interviews, a focus group and survey. The proposed eLESTP underwent several iterations of feedback and improvement and the result is a real-world solution to the problem at hand. With the purpose of determining the success of corporate e-learning, the barriers and critical success factors for e-learning as well as evaluation criteria were explored. Interviews, a focus group and a survey were conducted in order to validate the investigated literature in a real-world context. Informal interviews enabled a better understanding of the organisational context of this study. The focus group was conducted with customers who were undergoing face-to-face training using conveyancing software developed by Korbitec. Many of the issues faced by learners identified in literature regarding e-learning in developing countries were identified by the participants from the case study. An e-learning survey was used to gather information regarding the intention of Korbitec’s customers to use e-learning as well as their satisfaction with using e-learning. From the survey, it was found that respondents were positive regarding intention to use and satisfaction toward e-learning usage. DBR Cycle 1: Problem Investigation and Proposal entailed the initial problem investigation by conducting a literature review, focus group and survey. DBR Cycle 2: Design Alternative 1 of this study involved a design alternative for eLESTP, namely Prototype 1. DBR Cycle 3: Design and Evaluate Alternative 2 involved the design and prototyping of Prototype 2 for eLESTP as well as the improvement of Prototype 2 through sub-cycles of testing and refinement. The suggestions for improvement were obtained from the relevant stakeholders at Korbitec who are content developers and subject-matter experts. The criteria used to evaluate the success of eLESTP, including its e-learning components, were synthesised and adapted from literature and a new set of evaluation criteria for e-learning environments in software training contexts was proposed. The evaluated eLESTP consists of the technology basis of the Modular Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle), design guidelines for e-learning components, certification and competency-based training, pedagogical principles and best practice. Overall, eLESTP was positively received by various evaluator groups in formative and summative evaluations. The research results indicate that the use of an e-learning environment for software training purposes was useful and necessary. In support of this Masters dissertation, the following three conference papers have been published and presented at one local conference and two international conferences. In addition, an article has been published in an accredited journal: 1. IDIA 2015, Conference Paper – Zanzibar (Tanzania); 2. Conf-IRM 2016, Conference Paper – Cape Town (South Africa); 3. MCIS 2016, Conference Paper – Cyprus (Europe); and 4. IJIKM 2016, Journal Article.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A best practice guideline for a healthy work environment for professional nurses working in the South African Military Health Service
- Authors: Mabona, Jean Fezeka Madi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nurses -- Employment -- South Africa , Medicine, Military -- South Africa South Africa -- National Defence Force -- Medical care , Work environment -- National Defence Force -- Medical care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30811 , vital:31146
- Description: Governments, internationally and nationally, are becoming aware of the importance of healthy work environments within their health departments, environments that are caring and supportive to health professionals. This awareness is brought about by the mounting evidence that healthy work environments are critical to recruiting and retaining health professionals. On the other hand, unhealthy work environments can contribute to medical errors, ineffective delivery of care, and conflict and stress among health professionals in the clinical setting and faculty shortage that can compromise academic excellence in the academic setting. The professional nurses working in the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), a branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) could experience the military environment as unhealthy because it is rigid and controlled. The hierarchical rank structure could deprive them of their autonomy as the decision-making powers are directly proportional to the rank. Stressful conditions could be experienced when these professional nurses are taken away from the well equipped hospital environment to the deployment areas away from home. There was, however, no evidence found on the work environment of professional nurses in the SAMHS during literature review. The aim of the study is therefore to explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses working in the SAMHS and their understanding of a healthy work environment and the scope and nature of a best practice guideline, then to integrate the evidence generated to the evidence emanating from the critical appraisal of the existing best practice guidelines from other health settings in order to develop a best practice guideline for a healthy work environment for nurses in the SAMHS. The study adopted a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design. The research study was made up of three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews were conducted with professional nurses to collect information on their experiences of working in the SAMHS and their understanding of evidence-based best practice guidelines. The interviews were transcribed by an independent transcriptionist and data analyzed using the eight steps of data analysis as suggested by Tesch. Themes were identified and grouped together to form new categories. The process of coding was supported by an independent coder. Lincoln and Guba’s model of Page | vii trustworthiness consisting of credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability was used to ensure the validity of the study. An integrative literature review was conducted where the existing evidence-based best practice guidelines for healthy work environment for nurses were searched for, appraised, had data extracted and were synthesized in Phase 2. In Phase 3, evidence generated in Phase 1 and Phase 2 was triangulated, forming recommendations that were utilized to develop a best practice draft guideline for a healthy work environment for professional nurses working in the SAMHS. The draft guideline was sent to five expert reviewers for their comments and recommendations. These were considered in the development of the final guideline. The final guideline consists of several recommendations in four themes: the need for effective leadership to create an empowering environment; effective communication amongst members of the health team; a culture that supports team work, and; the need for an environment that promotes professional autonomy. Further recommendations were made to address factors that impact negatively on enhancement of a healthy work environment. The guideline is intended for use by SAMHS’ leadership, at Levels 2, the strategic level, Level 3, the formation level and Level 4, the unit level (hospitals, sickbays and clinics and nursing college) and all professional nurses working in all the military health institutions of the SAMHS, including the military clinics, sickbays and hospitals irrespective of positions. However, the guideline may also be adapted by nursing institutions outside the military such as public and private hospitals and clinics where they find it applicable. Results
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mabona, Jean Fezeka Madi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nurses -- Employment -- South Africa , Medicine, Military -- South Africa South Africa -- National Defence Force -- Medical care , Work environment -- National Defence Force -- Medical care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30811 , vital:31146
- Description: Governments, internationally and nationally, are becoming aware of the importance of healthy work environments within their health departments, environments that are caring and supportive to health professionals. This awareness is brought about by the mounting evidence that healthy work environments are critical to recruiting and retaining health professionals. On the other hand, unhealthy work environments can contribute to medical errors, ineffective delivery of care, and conflict and stress among health professionals in the clinical setting and faculty shortage that can compromise academic excellence in the academic setting. The professional nurses working in the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), a branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) could experience the military environment as unhealthy because it is rigid and controlled. The hierarchical rank structure could deprive them of their autonomy as the decision-making powers are directly proportional to the rank. Stressful conditions could be experienced when these professional nurses are taken away from the well equipped hospital environment to the deployment areas away from home. There was, however, no evidence found on the work environment of professional nurses in the SAMHS during literature review. The aim of the study is therefore to explore and describe the experiences of professional nurses working in the SAMHS and their understanding of a healthy work environment and the scope and nature of a best practice guideline, then to integrate the evidence generated to the evidence emanating from the critical appraisal of the existing best practice guidelines from other health settings in order to develop a best practice guideline for a healthy work environment for nurses in the SAMHS. The study adopted a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design. The research study was made up of three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews were conducted with professional nurses to collect information on their experiences of working in the SAMHS and their understanding of evidence-based best practice guidelines. The interviews were transcribed by an independent transcriptionist and data analyzed using the eight steps of data analysis as suggested by Tesch. Themes were identified and grouped together to form new categories. The process of coding was supported by an independent coder. Lincoln and Guba’s model of Page | vii trustworthiness consisting of credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability was used to ensure the validity of the study. An integrative literature review was conducted where the existing evidence-based best practice guidelines for healthy work environment for nurses were searched for, appraised, had data extracted and were synthesized in Phase 2. In Phase 3, evidence generated in Phase 1 and Phase 2 was triangulated, forming recommendations that were utilized to develop a best practice draft guideline for a healthy work environment for professional nurses working in the SAMHS. The draft guideline was sent to five expert reviewers for their comments and recommendations. These were considered in the development of the final guideline. The final guideline consists of several recommendations in four themes: the need for effective leadership to create an empowering environment; effective communication amongst members of the health team; a culture that supports team work, and; the need for an environment that promotes professional autonomy. Further recommendations were made to address factors that impact negatively on enhancement of a healthy work environment. The guideline is intended for use by SAMHS’ leadership, at Levels 2, the strategic level, Level 3, the formation level and Level 4, the unit level (hospitals, sickbays and clinics and nursing college) and all professional nurses working in all the military health institutions of the SAMHS, including the military clinics, sickbays and hospitals irrespective of positions. However, the guideline may also be adapted by nursing institutions outside the military such as public and private hospitals and clinics where they find it applicable. Results
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A best practice guideline for clinical teaching at a public college of nursing
- Authors: Gcawu, Sybil Nyameka
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching , Clinical medicine Medicine -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30194 , vital:30860
- Description: Clinical teaching is a critical component of the education and training of undergraduate nursing students. It determines the level of clinical competence that nursing students achieve during their studies. It should be informed by current best practice evidence available in the nursing care literature (Emanuel, Day, Diegnan & Prys-Muller, 2011:21-22). Clinical teaching is centred around provision of patient care in clinical practice. It takes place through an interaction between the nurse educator and the nursing students. During this process nursing students are moulded so they can demonstrate minimum competency in order to be registered by the regulatory body. Nursing students learn to become competent nurses in the clinical learning environment (Baxter 2006; Nash, 2007 in Franklin, 2013:35). In South Africa nurse educators are required to be fully responsible for clinical teaching through the use of appropriate teaching approaches and learning facilitation techniques (RSA DoH, 2013:91). The overall purpose of the current research study was to explore and describe the current clinical teaching practices of nurse educators; to search, appraise, extract and synthesise literature related to clinical teaching in nursing; and to develop A Best Practice Guideline for Clinical Teaching at a Public College of Nursing in the Eastern Cape Province. This had to be realized in three phases. In Phase One a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual study was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the nurse educators involved in clinical teaching within the Diploma in Nursing (General, Community, Psychiatric) and Midwifery programme. The data analysed was used as the basis of Phase Two—namely, an integrative literature review of evidence pertaining to the clinical teaching practices of nurse educators doing clinical teaching within the undergraduate programmes. The evidence from Phases One and Two was used to develop a draft Best Practice Guideline. The draft guideline was reviewed by a group of expert reviewers and their suggestions were incorporated in the final guideline. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the research study. The rigour of the research process was ensured by cognitive testing of the questionnaire, and by critical appraisal of the literature accessed from an integrative literature review. The v authenticity of critical appraisal was ensured by having the critical appraisal done by the researcher and an independent reviewer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Gcawu, Sybil Nyameka
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching , Clinical medicine Medicine -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30194 , vital:30860
- Description: Clinical teaching is a critical component of the education and training of undergraduate nursing students. It determines the level of clinical competence that nursing students achieve during their studies. It should be informed by current best practice evidence available in the nursing care literature (Emanuel, Day, Diegnan & Prys-Muller, 2011:21-22). Clinical teaching is centred around provision of patient care in clinical practice. It takes place through an interaction between the nurse educator and the nursing students. During this process nursing students are moulded so they can demonstrate minimum competency in order to be registered by the regulatory body. Nursing students learn to become competent nurses in the clinical learning environment (Baxter 2006; Nash, 2007 in Franklin, 2013:35). In South Africa nurse educators are required to be fully responsible for clinical teaching through the use of appropriate teaching approaches and learning facilitation techniques (RSA DoH, 2013:91). The overall purpose of the current research study was to explore and describe the current clinical teaching practices of nurse educators; to search, appraise, extract and synthesise literature related to clinical teaching in nursing; and to develop A Best Practice Guideline for Clinical Teaching at a Public College of Nursing in the Eastern Cape Province. This had to be realized in three phases. In Phase One a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual study was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the nurse educators involved in clinical teaching within the Diploma in Nursing (General, Community, Psychiatric) and Midwifery programme. The data analysed was used as the basis of Phase Two—namely, an integrative literature review of evidence pertaining to the clinical teaching practices of nurse educators doing clinical teaching within the undergraduate programmes. The evidence from Phases One and Two was used to develop a draft Best Practice Guideline. The draft guideline was reviewed by a group of expert reviewers and their suggestions were incorporated in the final guideline. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the research study. The rigour of the research process was ensured by cognitive testing of the questionnaire, and by critical appraisal of the literature accessed from an integrative literature review. The v authenticity of critical appraisal was ensured by having the critical appraisal done by the researcher and an independent reviewer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A best practice guideline for evidence based teaching strategies for nurse educators
- Authors: Breytenbach, Cecile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Great Britain , Nurse educators , Evidence-based nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4831 , vital:20699
- Description: Evidence based practice (EBP) is a worldwide phenomena defined as the “conscientious explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the patient’s care”. The evidence based practice concept’s aim is to effectively guide health care professionals to build knowledge that will be supported by evidence. Evidence based practice must be supported by evidence based teaching. Nurse educators must be up to date with evidence based teaching as well as the latest evidence based teaching strategies, in order to teach the new millennial nursing students and for the new qualifications structure. Teaching the concept of evidence based practice by implementing evidence based teaching to nursing students will enable them to transform the future of healthcare by delivering high quality care practice. A paucity of evidence is available on evidence based teaching and teaching strategies in the South African context. Therefore the researcher used a systematic review methodology to explore and describe the best available evidence based teaching strategies and to develop a guideline on evidence based teaching strategies for nurse educators. The data bases searched included: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed and Google Scholar. Manual searches were done and completed with the assistance of librarians. A total number of n=50 studies were identified as potentially relevant to the study. The number or articles included for critical appraisal were 20. On completion of the critical appraisal n=17 articles were identified for the review. The included studies for the review were n=7 Level 1, systematic reviews and n=10 Level 2, quasi-experimental studies. Three studies were excluded after critical appraisal from two reviewers, appraisal was done independently, and consensuses were reached between the two reviewers. The Joanna Briggs Institutes critical appraisal and data extraction instruments were used for the study. The descriptive data synthesis was done of the included studies as well as a comparison of teaching strategies to determine which one to better than the other one. Although n = 4 of the teaching strategies (concept mapping, internet-based learning, evidence based interactive strategy and cultural competence) significantly increased knowledge, the overall results found that a variety of teaching strategies to be implemented to increase the knowledge outcomes of the nursing students. The different teaching strategies found were: e-learning, concept mapping, internet-based learning, web-based learning, gaming, problem-based learning, and case studies, evidence based learning and cultural competence. However, more research is needed to investigate the best use of the different teaching strategies and compare the impact of a variety of teaching strategies on increasing knowledge of the nursing student.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Breytenbach, Cecile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Great Britain , Nurse educators , Evidence-based nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4831 , vital:20699
- Description: Evidence based practice (EBP) is a worldwide phenomena defined as the “conscientious explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the patient’s care”. The evidence based practice concept’s aim is to effectively guide health care professionals to build knowledge that will be supported by evidence. Evidence based practice must be supported by evidence based teaching. Nurse educators must be up to date with evidence based teaching as well as the latest evidence based teaching strategies, in order to teach the new millennial nursing students and for the new qualifications structure. Teaching the concept of evidence based practice by implementing evidence based teaching to nursing students will enable them to transform the future of healthcare by delivering high quality care practice. A paucity of evidence is available on evidence based teaching and teaching strategies in the South African context. Therefore the researcher used a systematic review methodology to explore and describe the best available evidence based teaching strategies and to develop a guideline on evidence based teaching strategies for nurse educators. The data bases searched included: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed and Google Scholar. Manual searches were done and completed with the assistance of librarians. A total number of n=50 studies were identified as potentially relevant to the study. The number or articles included for critical appraisal were 20. On completion of the critical appraisal n=17 articles were identified for the review. The included studies for the review were n=7 Level 1, systematic reviews and n=10 Level 2, quasi-experimental studies. Three studies were excluded after critical appraisal from two reviewers, appraisal was done independently, and consensuses were reached between the two reviewers. The Joanna Briggs Institutes critical appraisal and data extraction instruments were used for the study. The descriptive data synthesis was done of the included studies as well as a comparison of teaching strategies to determine which one to better than the other one. Although n = 4 of the teaching strategies (concept mapping, internet-based learning, evidence based interactive strategy and cultural competence) significantly increased knowledge, the overall results found that a variety of teaching strategies to be implemented to increase the knowledge outcomes of the nursing students. The different teaching strategies found were: e-learning, concept mapping, internet-based learning, web-based learning, gaming, problem-based learning, and case studies, evidence based learning and cultural competence. However, more research is needed to investigate the best use of the different teaching strategies and compare the impact of a variety of teaching strategies on increasing knowledge of the nursing student.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
A best practice guideline for patient-centred care in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Jardien-Baboo, Sihaam
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Patient-centered health care -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Evidence-based medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public health nurses -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020370
- Description: In South Africa, the quality of health care is directly related to the concept of patient-centred care and the enactment of the Batho Pele Principles and the Patients’ Rights Charter. The quality of health care delivery has dropped drastically, and reports in the media indicate that public hospitals in the Eastern Cape Province are on the brink of collapse, with thousands of patients being treated in condemned hospitals. Receiving and rendering health care in the face of such challenges, the question arose: “Are patients receiving patient-centred care in public hospitals?” The answer to this rhetorical inquiry appeared to be obvious, but this research study explored and described professional nurses’ perceptions of patient-centred care in public hospitals and their understanding of evidence-based practice and best practice guidelines. The proposed study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The research population included professional nurses who are employed in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay, and consisted of nurse managers and nurses who work in the wards. The research study consisted of three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with nurse managers and professional nurses working in the wards in order to collect data about their perceptions of patient-centred care and their understanding of evidence-based practice and best practice guidelines. The interviews were transcribed and Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. Themes were identified and grouped together to form new categories. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness, which consists of the following four constructs: credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. An independent coder assisted with the coding process. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted in order to identify previous guidelines regarding best practice for patient-centred care. Relevant guidelines were selected, critically appraised, data was extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for patient-centred care. An independent appraiser critically appraised the guidelines, thereby ensuring trustworthiness. In Phase 3, the data in Phase 1 and Phase 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for patient-centred care. The guideline was submitted to an expert panel for review and was modified according to the recommendations of the panel, whereby the best practice guideline for patient-centred care in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay was finalized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Jardien-Baboo, Sihaam
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Patient-centered health care -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Evidence-based medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public health nurses -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020370
- Description: In South Africa, the quality of health care is directly related to the concept of patient-centred care and the enactment of the Batho Pele Principles and the Patients’ Rights Charter. The quality of health care delivery has dropped drastically, and reports in the media indicate that public hospitals in the Eastern Cape Province are on the brink of collapse, with thousands of patients being treated in condemned hospitals. Receiving and rendering health care in the face of such challenges, the question arose: “Are patients receiving patient-centred care in public hospitals?” The answer to this rhetorical inquiry appeared to be obvious, but this research study explored and described professional nurses’ perceptions of patient-centred care in public hospitals and their understanding of evidence-based practice and best practice guidelines. The proposed study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The research population included professional nurses who are employed in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay, and consisted of nurse managers and nurses who work in the wards. The research study consisted of three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with nurse managers and professional nurses working in the wards in order to collect data about their perceptions of patient-centred care and their understanding of evidence-based practice and best practice guidelines. The interviews were transcribed and Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were followed to create meaning from the data collected. Themes were identified and grouped together to form new categories. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness, which consists of the following four constructs: credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. An independent coder assisted with the coding process. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted in order to identify previous guidelines regarding best practice for patient-centred care. Relevant guidelines were selected, critically appraised, data was extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for patient-centred care. An independent appraiser critically appraised the guidelines, thereby ensuring trustworthiness. In Phase 3, the data in Phase 1 and Phase 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for patient-centred care. The guideline was submitted to an expert panel for review and was modified according to the recommendations of the panel, whereby the best practice guideline for patient-centred care in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay was finalized.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A best practice guideline for screening and managing chorioamnionitis
- Authors: Du Plessis, Allison Herlene
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Bacterial diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46374 , vital:39575
- Description: Due to the complex nature of chorioamnionitis, women are often misdiagnosed, undiagnosed or only diagnosed after birth when it is too late to prevent maternal and neonatal complications. A lack of a comprehensive best practice guidelinefor screening and managing women withchorioamnionitis resultsin delayed treatment and management that could minimise maternal and neonatal complications. Saving Babiesreported that unexplained intra-uterine deathsremained the main primary (obstetric) cause of death for babies with a weight above 1000g (24.4%of all deaths). Of these unexplained uterine deaths, 33% are of normal birth weight (>2500g), and,therefore,most likely term gestation. Saving Babies further reported that 22.9% of all live births in South Africa was premature and 22.8% of birthswere unexplained intra-uterine deaths. Prematurity is one major complication of chorioamnionitis. When susceptibility for chorioamnionitis is considered during early pregnancy, it is possible to intervene and prevent or even reduce the incidences and complications of chorioamnionitis.A qualitative research study was conducted in three phases. In Phase One(Part One), a theoretically constructed patient scenario of chorioamnionitis was presented to ten midwives,and semi-structured individual interviews were done to elicit information regarding how they screen for and manage chorioamnionitis. In Phase One(Part Two), experienced medical practitioners in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology were individually interviewed, also using semi-structured individual interviewsto gain their views regarding chorioamnionitis as a contributing factor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Qualitative findings in Phase Oneindicated that there is a general lack of knowledge regarding chorioamnionitis among midwives, resulting ininadequate screening, misdiagnosis and mismanagement of the condition. Experienced medical practitioners confirmed that chorioamnionitis is underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed or undiagnosed and underreported,and they hold views that it is difficult to treat and control pregnancy-related infections according to current practice.An integrative literature review was conductedin Phase Twoand literature regarding diagnostic biomarkers, screening options to diagnose chorioamnionitis and management of chorioamnionitis were extracted. After evidence synthesisofPhase Oneand Phase Twodata, a best practice guidelinefor screening and managing viiwomen withchorioamnionitiswas developed usingthe National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guideline development approach in Phase Three. The purpose of the best practice guideline for screening and managing women with chorioamnionitis was to provide a guideline onhow to manage women who are at risk and those who present with signs and symptoms of chorioamnionitis at any stage during their pregnancy. Five recommendations were made that involve screening for chorioamnionitisand causative factors, biomarkers to diagnose chorioamnionitis, management of chorioamnionitis that includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, and health education to women.Ethics for this research study were guided by the ethical principles and guidelines of the Belmont Report. The trustworthiness of this research study was adopted from Ravitch and Carl,and was based on criticality, reflexivity, collaboration, and rigour. An independent coder and reviewer wereto verify the data that were included in the best practice guideline. Expert reviewersappraised the best practice guidelineusing Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Du Plessis, Allison Herlene
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Bacterial diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46374 , vital:39575
- Description: Due to the complex nature of chorioamnionitis, women are often misdiagnosed, undiagnosed or only diagnosed after birth when it is too late to prevent maternal and neonatal complications. A lack of a comprehensive best practice guidelinefor screening and managing women withchorioamnionitis resultsin delayed treatment and management that could minimise maternal and neonatal complications. Saving Babiesreported that unexplained intra-uterine deathsremained the main primary (obstetric) cause of death for babies with a weight above 1000g (24.4%of all deaths). Of these unexplained uterine deaths, 33% are of normal birth weight (>2500g), and,therefore,most likely term gestation. Saving Babies further reported that 22.9% of all live births in South Africa was premature and 22.8% of birthswere unexplained intra-uterine deaths. Prematurity is one major complication of chorioamnionitis. When susceptibility for chorioamnionitis is considered during early pregnancy, it is possible to intervene and prevent or even reduce the incidences and complications of chorioamnionitis.A qualitative research study was conducted in three phases. In Phase One(Part One), a theoretically constructed patient scenario of chorioamnionitis was presented to ten midwives,and semi-structured individual interviews were done to elicit information regarding how they screen for and manage chorioamnionitis. In Phase One(Part Two), experienced medical practitioners in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology were individually interviewed, also using semi-structured individual interviewsto gain their views regarding chorioamnionitis as a contributing factor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Qualitative findings in Phase Oneindicated that there is a general lack of knowledge regarding chorioamnionitis among midwives, resulting ininadequate screening, misdiagnosis and mismanagement of the condition. Experienced medical practitioners confirmed that chorioamnionitis is underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed or undiagnosed and underreported,and they hold views that it is difficult to treat and control pregnancy-related infections according to current practice.An integrative literature review was conductedin Phase Twoand literature regarding diagnostic biomarkers, screening options to diagnose chorioamnionitis and management of chorioamnionitis were extracted. After evidence synthesisofPhase Oneand Phase Twodata, a best practice guidelinefor screening and managing viiwomen withchorioamnionitiswas developed usingthe National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guideline development approach in Phase Three. The purpose of the best practice guideline for screening and managing women with chorioamnionitis was to provide a guideline onhow to manage women who are at risk and those who present with signs and symptoms of chorioamnionitis at any stage during their pregnancy. Five recommendations were made that involve screening for chorioamnionitisand causative factors, biomarkers to diagnose chorioamnionitis, management of chorioamnionitis that includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, and health education to women.Ethics for this research study were guided by the ethical principles and guidelines of the Belmont Report. The trustworthiness of this research study was adopted from Ravitch and Carl,and was based on criticality, reflexivity, collaboration, and rigour. An independent coder and reviewer wereto verify the data that were included in the best practice guideline. Expert reviewersappraised the best practice guidelineusing Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A best-practice guideline for facilitating adherence to anti-retroviral therapy for persons attending public hospitals in Ghana
- Authors: Agyeman-Yeboah, Joana
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Treatment -- Ghana , Health services administration -- Ghana Public health -- Ghana Hospital care -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13603 , vital:27256
- Description: The retention of persons on an HIV programme has been a global challenge. The success of any strategy to optimize adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) depends on the intensive and effective adherence counselling and strategies. It is important to research whether persons receiving anti-retroviral therapy in public hospitals in Ghana are receiving the needed service that would optimize their adherence to the anti-retroviral therapy. Therefore, this study explored and described the experiences of healthcare professionals providing care, support and guidance to persons on ART at public hospitals in Ghana, as well as the best-practice guideline that could contribute to facilitating the ART adherence of patients. This study also explored and described the experiences of persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) on ART, regarding their adherence to the therapy. The study was organized into three phases. In Phase One: a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was employed. The research population included healthcare professionals, providing services at the HIV clinic at the public hospitals in Ghana, namely the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital; the 37 Military Hospital and the Ridge Hospital. The healthcare professionals comprised of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and trained counsellors employed in any of the three public hospitals. Persons receiving ART at any of the three public hospitals were also part of the research population. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals and persons receiving ART. Data were collected from healthcare professionals in relation to their experiences regarding the provision of ART services, their understanding of evidence-based practice and best-practice guidelines, as well as data on the experiences of persons receiving ART in relation to their adherence to the therapy. The data were analysed using Creswell’s six steps of data analysis; and the coding of the data was done according to Tesch’s eight steps of coding. Trustworthiness was ensured by using Lincoln and Guba’s framework which comprised credibility, transferability, dependability, confirmability and authenticity. Ethical principles such as beneficence and non-maleficence, respect for human dignity, justice, veracity, privacy and confidentiality were considered in the study. In phase two, the literature was searched by using an integrative literature review approach and critically appraising the methodological quality of the guidelines in order to identify the best available evidence related to adherence to ART. In Phase Three, a best-practice guideline for facilitating adherence to ART was developed for public hospitals in Ghana based on the findings of the empirical research of Phase One and the integrative literature review in Phase Two. The guideline was submitted to an expert panel for review; and it was modified, according to the recommendations of the panel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Agyeman-Yeboah, Joana
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Treatment -- Ghana , Health services administration -- Ghana Public health -- Ghana Hospital care -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13603 , vital:27256
- Description: The retention of persons on an HIV programme has been a global challenge. The success of any strategy to optimize adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) depends on the intensive and effective adherence counselling and strategies. It is important to research whether persons receiving anti-retroviral therapy in public hospitals in Ghana are receiving the needed service that would optimize their adherence to the anti-retroviral therapy. Therefore, this study explored and described the experiences of healthcare professionals providing care, support and guidance to persons on ART at public hospitals in Ghana, as well as the best-practice guideline that could contribute to facilitating the ART adherence of patients. This study also explored and described the experiences of persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) on ART, regarding their adherence to the therapy. The study was organized into three phases. In Phase One: a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was employed. The research population included healthcare professionals, providing services at the HIV clinic at the public hospitals in Ghana, namely the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital; the 37 Military Hospital and the Ridge Hospital. The healthcare professionals comprised of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and trained counsellors employed in any of the three public hospitals. Persons receiving ART at any of the three public hospitals were also part of the research population. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals and persons receiving ART. Data were collected from healthcare professionals in relation to their experiences regarding the provision of ART services, their understanding of evidence-based practice and best-practice guidelines, as well as data on the experiences of persons receiving ART in relation to their adherence to the therapy. The data were analysed using Creswell’s six steps of data analysis; and the coding of the data was done according to Tesch’s eight steps of coding. Trustworthiness was ensured by using Lincoln and Guba’s framework which comprised credibility, transferability, dependability, confirmability and authenticity. Ethical principles such as beneficence and non-maleficence, respect for human dignity, justice, veracity, privacy and confidentiality were considered in the study. In phase two, the literature was searched by using an integrative literature review approach and critically appraising the methodological quality of the guidelines in order to identify the best available evidence related to adherence to ART. In Phase Three, a best-practice guideline for facilitating adherence to ART was developed for public hospitals in Ghana based on the findings of the empirical research of Phase One and the integrative literature review in Phase Two. The guideline was submitted to an expert panel for review; and it was modified, according to the recommendations of the panel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A Biblical theology of ministry to refugees for Baptist Churches in South Africa
- Authors: Stemmett, David John
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Baptists -- South Africa , Church and social problems -- South Africa , Church work with refugees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: vital:11799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/131 , Baptists -- South Africa , Church and social problems -- South Africa , Church work with refugees
- Description: The issue of refugees in South Africa has come under the spotlight recently, particularly in the light of the xenophobic violence that swept the country in 2008. As a Baptist pastor, working in a congregation which has a vital ministry towards refugees, the writer became aware that only a handful of Baptist congregations in the Western Cape had a similar concern for refugees and asylum seekers. These observations raised the question of ministry to refugees on the part of Baptist churches in SA. As Baptist churches adhere to the principle of the supremacy of Scripture, the motivation for churches to minister to refugees should to be based upon biblical theology. This dissertation seeks to provide such a biblical theology of ministry to refugees that can in turn provide a basis from which local congregation can develop such ministry. To provide the context of refugees in SA, this study begins by outlining the phenomenon of refugees in the context of SA, as well as the conditions experienced by refugees. This dissertation further seeks to delineate a number of Baptist principles that relate to the issue of Baptist churches and ministry to refugees. It also seeks to look at the role that various Baptist agencies such as the Baptist Union of Southern Africa (BUSA) and the Western Province Baptist Association have to play in ministry to refugees. The study then goes on to discuss biblical material from both the Old and New The issue of refugees in South Africa has come under the spotlight recently, particularly in the light of the xenophobic violence that swept the country in 2008. As a Baptist pastor, working in a congregation which has a vital ministry towards refugees, the writer became aware that only a handful of Baptist congregations in the Western Cape had a similar concern for refugees and asylum seekers. These observations raised the question of ministry to refugees on the part of Baptist churches in SA. As Baptist churches adhere to the principle of the supremacy of Scripture, the motivation for churches to minister to refugees should to be based upon biblical theology. This dissertation seeks to provide such a biblical theology of ministry to refugees that can in turn provide a basis from which local congregation can develop such ministry. To provide the context of refugees in SA, this study begins by outlining the phenomenon of refugees in the context of SA, as well as the conditions experienced by refugees. This dissertation further seeks to delineate a number of Baptist principles that relate to the issue of Baptist churches and ministry to refugees. It also seeks to look at the role that various Baptist agencies such as the Baptist Union of Southern Africa (BUSA) and the Western Province Baptist Association have to play in ministry to refugees. The study then goes on to discuss biblical material from both the Old and New Testaments pertaining to refugees. The dissertation then seeks to develop a theology of ministry to refugees based upon the biblical material that can be used to motivate local Baptist congregations to minister to refugees. In the final section the theology of ministry to refugees is used to evaluate current models of ministry directed towards refugees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Stemmett, David John
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Baptists -- South Africa , Church and social problems -- South Africa , Church work with refugees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: vital:11799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/131 , Baptists -- South Africa , Church and social problems -- South Africa , Church work with refugees
- Description: The issue of refugees in South Africa has come under the spotlight recently, particularly in the light of the xenophobic violence that swept the country in 2008. As a Baptist pastor, working in a congregation which has a vital ministry towards refugees, the writer became aware that only a handful of Baptist congregations in the Western Cape had a similar concern for refugees and asylum seekers. These observations raised the question of ministry to refugees on the part of Baptist churches in SA. As Baptist churches adhere to the principle of the supremacy of Scripture, the motivation for churches to minister to refugees should to be based upon biblical theology. This dissertation seeks to provide such a biblical theology of ministry to refugees that can in turn provide a basis from which local congregation can develop such ministry. To provide the context of refugees in SA, this study begins by outlining the phenomenon of refugees in the context of SA, as well as the conditions experienced by refugees. This dissertation further seeks to delineate a number of Baptist principles that relate to the issue of Baptist churches and ministry to refugees. It also seeks to look at the role that various Baptist agencies such as the Baptist Union of Southern Africa (BUSA) and the Western Province Baptist Association have to play in ministry to refugees. The study then goes on to discuss biblical material from both the Old and New The issue of refugees in South Africa has come under the spotlight recently, particularly in the light of the xenophobic violence that swept the country in 2008. As a Baptist pastor, working in a congregation which has a vital ministry towards refugees, the writer became aware that only a handful of Baptist congregations in the Western Cape had a similar concern for refugees and asylum seekers. These observations raised the question of ministry to refugees on the part of Baptist churches in SA. As Baptist churches adhere to the principle of the supremacy of Scripture, the motivation for churches to minister to refugees should to be based upon biblical theology. This dissertation seeks to provide such a biblical theology of ministry to refugees that can in turn provide a basis from which local congregation can develop such ministry. To provide the context of refugees in SA, this study begins by outlining the phenomenon of refugees in the context of SA, as well as the conditions experienced by refugees. This dissertation further seeks to delineate a number of Baptist principles that relate to the issue of Baptist churches and ministry to refugees. It also seeks to look at the role that various Baptist agencies such as the Baptist Union of Southern Africa (BUSA) and the Western Province Baptist Association have to play in ministry to refugees. The study then goes on to discuss biblical material from both the Old and New Testaments pertaining to refugees. The dissertation then seeks to develop a theology of ministry to refugees based upon the biblical material that can be used to motivate local Baptist congregations to minister to refugees. In the final section the theology of ministry to refugees is used to evaluate current models of ministry directed towards refugees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008