The implementation and evaluation of a service-learning component in a second year undergraduate organic chemistry course
- Authors: Abel, Sarah Ruth
- Date: 2011 , 2010-10-03
- Subjects: Chemistry, Organic -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Action research in education -- South Africa , Experiential learning -- South Africa , Service learning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006008 , Chemistry, Organic -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Action research in education -- South Africa , Experiential learning -- South Africa , Service learning -- South Africa
- Description: The project describes the action research implementation, and evaluation of learning, of a service-learning component in a second year undergraduate organic chemistry course. The research aims to explore the learning that takes place in a service-learning context while utilizing an action research methodology within the critical theory paradigm. This occurs in response to the world-wide call for Higher Education to produce people with civic competencies and responsiveness to the society in which they live (Boyer 1996). Educating young Chemists to see the importance of their knowledge and their responsibilities in society is an important pedagogical step in the effort to cross boundaries and make connections between people communities (Eyler and Giles 1999). The goal of this project was to explore and categorize the learning that takes place in a service-learning context and discover how these areas of learning impact the awareness of the parties involved with regard to the discipline of chemistry as well as social issues. The project makes use of Kolb‘s (1984) Experiential Learning Theory, and Eyler and Giles‘ (1999) categories of learning in service-learning and results indicate that service-learning can be a powerful pedagogical tool to increase learning in chemistry as well as in the areas of critical thinking, personal and social development, reflection and citizenship. Students‘ perceptions of themselves, their discipline and their responsibility to society were transformed by their experience of service-learning in their undergraduate chemistry course.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Abel, Sarah Ruth
- Date: 2011 , 2010-10-03
- Subjects: Chemistry, Organic -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Action research in education -- South Africa , Experiential learning -- South Africa , Service learning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4393 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006008 , Chemistry, Organic -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Action research in education -- South Africa , Experiential learning -- South Africa , Service learning -- South Africa
- Description: The project describes the action research implementation, and evaluation of learning, of a service-learning component in a second year undergraduate organic chemistry course. The research aims to explore the learning that takes place in a service-learning context while utilizing an action research methodology within the critical theory paradigm. This occurs in response to the world-wide call for Higher Education to produce people with civic competencies and responsiveness to the society in which they live (Boyer 1996). Educating young Chemists to see the importance of their knowledge and their responsibilities in society is an important pedagogical step in the effort to cross boundaries and make connections between people communities (Eyler and Giles 1999). The goal of this project was to explore and categorize the learning that takes place in a service-learning context and discover how these areas of learning impact the awareness of the parties involved with regard to the discipline of chemistry as well as social issues. The project makes use of Kolb‘s (1984) Experiential Learning Theory, and Eyler and Giles‘ (1999) categories of learning in service-learning and results indicate that service-learning can be a powerful pedagogical tool to increase learning in chemistry as well as in the areas of critical thinking, personal and social development, reflection and citizenship. Students‘ perceptions of themselves, their discipline and their responsibility to society were transformed by their experience of service-learning in their undergraduate chemistry course.
- Full Text:
A study of a class of invariant optimal control problems on the Euclidean group SE(2)
- Authors: Adams, Ross Montague
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Matrix groups Lie groups Extremal problems (Mathematics) Maximum principles (Mathematics) Hamilton-Jacobi equations Lyapunov stability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006060
- Description: The aim of this thesis is to study a class of left-invariant optimal control problems on the matrix Lie group SE(2). We classify, under detached feedback equivalence, all controllable (left-invariant) control affine systems on SE(2). This result produces six types of control affine systems on SE(2). Hence, we study six associated left-invariant optimal control problems on SE(2). A left-invariant optimal control problem consists of minimizing a cost functional over the trajectory-control pairs of a left-invariant control system subject to appropriate boundary conditions. Each control problem is lifted from SE(2) to T*SE(2) ≅ SE(2) x se (2)*and then reduced to a problem on se (2)*. The maximum principle is used to obtain the optimal control and Hamiltonian corresponding to the normal extremals. Then we derive the (reduced) extremal equations on se (2)*. These equations are explicitly integrated by trigonometric and Jacobi elliptic functions. Finally, we fully classify, under Lyapunov stability, the equilibrium states of the normal extremal equations for each of the six types under consideration.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adams, Ross Montague
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Matrix groups Lie groups Extremal problems (Mathematics) Maximum principles (Mathematics) Hamilton-Jacobi equations Lyapunov stability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006060
- Description: The aim of this thesis is to study a class of left-invariant optimal control problems on the matrix Lie group SE(2). We classify, under detached feedback equivalence, all controllable (left-invariant) control affine systems on SE(2). This result produces six types of control affine systems on SE(2). Hence, we study six associated left-invariant optimal control problems on SE(2). A left-invariant optimal control problem consists of minimizing a cost functional over the trajectory-control pairs of a left-invariant control system subject to appropriate boundary conditions. Each control problem is lifted from SE(2) to T*SE(2) ≅ SE(2) x se (2)*and then reduced to a problem on se (2)*. The maximum principle is used to obtain the optimal control and Hamiltonian corresponding to the normal extremals. Then we derive the (reduced) extremal equations on se (2)*. These equations are explicitly integrated by trigonometric and Jacobi elliptic functions. Finally, we fully classify, under Lyapunov stability, the equilibrium states of the normal extremal equations for each of the six types under consideration.
- Full Text:
Marine anti-malarial isonitriles : a synthetic and computational study
- Authors: Adendorff, Matthew Ralph
- Date: 2011 , 2010-05-17
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4398 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006674 , Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Description: The development of Plasmodium falciparum malarial resistance to the current armoury of anti-malarial drugs requires the development of new treatments to help combat this disease. The marine environment is a well established source of potential pharmaceuticals. Of interest to us are isonitrile, isocyanate and isothiocyanate compounds isolated from marine sponges and molluscs which have exhibited nano-molar anti-plasmodial activities. Through quantitative structure-activity relation studies (QSAR), a literature precedent exists for a pseudoreceptor model from which a pharmacophore for the design of novel anti-malarial agents was proposed. The current theory suggests that these marine compounds exert their inhibitory action through interfering with the heme detoxification pathway in P. falciparum. We propose that the computational methods used to draw detailed conclusions about the mode of action of these marine compounds were inadequate. This thesis addresses this problem using contemporary computational methodologies and seeks to propose a more robust method for the rational design of new anti-malarial drug compounds that inhibit heme polymerization to hemozoin. In order to investigate the interactions of the marine compounds with their heme targets, a series of modern computational procedures were formulated, validated and then applied to theoretical systems. The validations of these algorithms, before their application to the marine compound-heme systems, were achieved through two case studies. The first was used to investigate the applicability of the statistical docking algorithm AutoDock to be used for the exploration of conformational space around the heme target. A theoretical P. falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase (PfDXR) enzyme model, constructed by the Biochemistry Department at Rhodes University, provided the ideal model to validate the AutoDock program. The protein model was accordingly subjected to rigorous docking simulations with over 30 different ligand molecules using the AutoDock algorithm which allowed for the docking algorithm’s limitations to be ascertained and improved upon. This investigation facilitated the successful validation of the protein model, which can now be used for the rational design of new PfDXR-inhibiting anti-plasmodial compounds, as well as enabling us to propose an improvement of the docking algorithm for application to the heme systems. The second case study was used to investigate the applicability of an ab initio molecular dynamics algorithm for simulation of bond breaking/forming events between the marine compounds and their heme target. This validation involved the exploration of intermolecular interactions in a naturally occurring nonoligomeric zipper using the Car-Parrinello Molecular Dynamics (CPMD) method. This study allowed us to propose a model for the intermolecular forces responsible for zipper self-assembly and showcased the CPMD method’s abilities to simulate and predict bond forming/breaking events. Data from the computational analyses suggested that the interactions between marine isonitriles, isocyanates and isothiocyanates occur through bond-less electrostatic attractions rather than through formal intermolecular bonds as had been previously suggested. Accordingly, a simple bicyclic tertiary isonitrile (5.14) was synthesized using Kitano et al’s relatively underutilized isonitrile synthetic method for the conversion of tertiary alcohols to their corresponding isonitriles. This compound’s potential for heme detoxification inhibition was then explored in vitro via the pyridine-hemochrome assay. The assay data suggested that the synthesized isonitrile was capable of inhibiting heme polymerization in a similar fashion to the known inhibitor chloroquine. Attempts to synthesize tricyclic analogues of 5.14 were unsuccessful and highlighted the limitation of Kitano et al’s isonitrile synthetic methodology.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adendorff, Matthew Ralph
- Date: 2011 , 2010-05-17
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4398 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006674 , Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Description: The development of Plasmodium falciparum malarial resistance to the current armoury of anti-malarial drugs requires the development of new treatments to help combat this disease. The marine environment is a well established source of potential pharmaceuticals. Of interest to us are isonitrile, isocyanate and isothiocyanate compounds isolated from marine sponges and molluscs which have exhibited nano-molar anti-plasmodial activities. Through quantitative structure-activity relation studies (QSAR), a literature precedent exists for a pseudoreceptor model from which a pharmacophore for the design of novel anti-malarial agents was proposed. The current theory suggests that these marine compounds exert their inhibitory action through interfering with the heme detoxification pathway in P. falciparum. We propose that the computational methods used to draw detailed conclusions about the mode of action of these marine compounds were inadequate. This thesis addresses this problem using contemporary computational methodologies and seeks to propose a more robust method for the rational design of new anti-malarial drug compounds that inhibit heme polymerization to hemozoin. In order to investigate the interactions of the marine compounds with their heme targets, a series of modern computational procedures were formulated, validated and then applied to theoretical systems. The validations of these algorithms, before their application to the marine compound-heme systems, were achieved through two case studies. The first was used to investigate the applicability of the statistical docking algorithm AutoDock to be used for the exploration of conformational space around the heme target. A theoretical P. falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase (PfDXR) enzyme model, constructed by the Biochemistry Department at Rhodes University, provided the ideal model to validate the AutoDock program. The protein model was accordingly subjected to rigorous docking simulations with over 30 different ligand molecules using the AutoDock algorithm which allowed for the docking algorithm’s limitations to be ascertained and improved upon. This investigation facilitated the successful validation of the protein model, which can now be used for the rational design of new PfDXR-inhibiting anti-plasmodial compounds, as well as enabling us to propose an improvement of the docking algorithm for application to the heme systems. The second case study was used to investigate the applicability of an ab initio molecular dynamics algorithm for simulation of bond breaking/forming events between the marine compounds and their heme target. This validation involved the exploration of intermolecular interactions in a naturally occurring nonoligomeric zipper using the Car-Parrinello Molecular Dynamics (CPMD) method. This study allowed us to propose a model for the intermolecular forces responsible for zipper self-assembly and showcased the CPMD method’s abilities to simulate and predict bond forming/breaking events. Data from the computational analyses suggested that the interactions between marine isonitriles, isocyanates and isothiocyanates occur through bond-less electrostatic attractions rather than through formal intermolecular bonds as had been previously suggested. Accordingly, a simple bicyclic tertiary isonitrile (5.14) was synthesized using Kitano et al’s relatively underutilized isonitrile synthetic method for the conversion of tertiary alcohols to their corresponding isonitriles. This compound’s potential for heme detoxification inhibition was then explored in vitro via the pyridine-hemochrome assay. The assay data suggested that the synthesized isonitrile was capable of inhibiting heme polymerization in a similar fashion to the known inhibitor chloroquine. Attempts to synthesize tricyclic analogues of 5.14 were unsuccessful and highlighted the limitation of Kitano et al’s isonitrile synthetic methodology.
- Full Text:
An analysis of the long run comovements between financial system development and mining production in South Africa
- Authors: Ajagbe, Stephen Mayowa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Econometric models , Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Principal components analysis , Cointegration , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002689 , Economic development -- South Africa , Econometric models , Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Principal components analysis , Cointegration , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates
- Description: This study examines the nature of the relationship which exists between mining sector production and development of the financial systems in South Africa. This is particularly important in that the mining sector is considered to be one of the major contributors to the country’s overall economic growth. South Africa is also considered to have a very well developed financial system, to the point where the dominance of one over the other is difficult to identify. Therefore offering insight into the nature of this relationship will assist policy makers in identifying the most effective policies in order to ensure that the developments within the financial systems impact appropriately on the mining sector, and ultimately on the economy. In addition to using the conventional proxies of financial system development, this study utilises the principal component analysis (PCA) to construct an index for the entire financial system. The multivariate cointegration approach as proposed by Johansen (1988) and Johansen and Juselius (1990) was then used to estimate the relationship between the development of the financial systems and the mining sector production for the period 1988-2008. The study reveals mixed results for different measures of financial system development. Those involving the banking system show that a negative relationship exists between total mining production and total credit extended to the private sector, while liquid liabilities has a positive relationship. Similarly, with the stock market system, mixed results are also obtained which reveal a negative relationship between total mining production and stock market capitalisation, while a positive relationship is found with secondary market turnover. Of all the financial system variables, only that of stock market capitalisation was found to be significant. The result with the financial development index reveals that a significant negative relationship exists between financial system development and total mining sector production. Results on the other variables controlled in the estimation show that positive and significant relationships exist between total mining production and both nominal exchange rate and political stability respectively. Increased mining production therefore takes place in periods of appreciating exchange rates, and similarly in the post-apartheid era. On the other hand, negative relationships were found for both trade openness and inflation control variables. The impulse response and variance decomposition analyses showed that total mining production explains the largest amount of shocks within itself. Overall, the study reveals that the mining sector might not have benefited much from the development in the South African financial system.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ajagbe, Stephen Mayowa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Econometric models , Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Principal components analysis , Cointegration , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002689 , Economic development -- South Africa , Econometric models , Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Principal components analysis , Cointegration , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates
- Description: This study examines the nature of the relationship which exists between mining sector production and development of the financial systems in South Africa. This is particularly important in that the mining sector is considered to be one of the major contributors to the country’s overall economic growth. South Africa is also considered to have a very well developed financial system, to the point where the dominance of one over the other is difficult to identify. Therefore offering insight into the nature of this relationship will assist policy makers in identifying the most effective policies in order to ensure that the developments within the financial systems impact appropriately on the mining sector, and ultimately on the economy. In addition to using the conventional proxies of financial system development, this study utilises the principal component analysis (PCA) to construct an index for the entire financial system. The multivariate cointegration approach as proposed by Johansen (1988) and Johansen and Juselius (1990) was then used to estimate the relationship between the development of the financial systems and the mining sector production for the period 1988-2008. The study reveals mixed results for different measures of financial system development. Those involving the banking system show that a negative relationship exists between total mining production and total credit extended to the private sector, while liquid liabilities has a positive relationship. Similarly, with the stock market system, mixed results are also obtained which reveal a negative relationship between total mining production and stock market capitalisation, while a positive relationship is found with secondary market turnover. Of all the financial system variables, only that of stock market capitalisation was found to be significant. The result with the financial development index reveals that a significant negative relationship exists between financial system development and total mining sector production. Results on the other variables controlled in the estimation show that positive and significant relationships exist between total mining production and both nominal exchange rate and political stability respectively. Increased mining production therefore takes place in periods of appreciating exchange rates, and similarly in the post-apartheid era. On the other hand, negative relationships were found for both trade openness and inflation control variables. The impulse response and variance decomposition analyses showed that total mining production explains the largest amount of shocks within itself. Overall, the study reveals that the mining sector might not have benefited much from the development in the South African financial system.
- Full Text:
Stories from forest, river and mountain : exploring children's cultural environmental narratives and their role in the transmission of cultural connection to and protection of biodiversity
- Authors: Alexander, Jamie Kim
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Children and the environment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Environmental education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Oral tradition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social learning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional ecological knowledge -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:6061 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015267
- Description: Preservationist conservation created a legacy of national parks and protected areas that were surrounded by local people dispossessed of their land and denied the rights to use the resources they had previously relied upon. Although conservation is now shifting towards a more participatory approach, research gaps still exist in determining the meaning of 'the environment' and the role of local means of conservation in rural communities in South Africa. This study focused on children's cultural environmental narratives from two rural villages in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Children from grades 4, 7 and 10 were involved in the study, and adult family members, local experts and village elders were included in the study to allow for comparison between children's and adult's narratives and to realise what Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) was being passed on. This thesis considers children's use of the environment for play and their sense of place as key methods in ascertaining children's environmental narratives and perceptions. At both field sites, local experts and community elders possessed a wealth of cultural environmental narratives, but these narratives were not necessarily being passed on. Changing household structures and other socio-economic factors influence cultural environmental practices, which in turn have an impact on the cultural environmental narratives being passed down. In many cases, parents' safety fears strongly impacted upon children's access to the environment, resulting in gendered environmental knowledge. The study compared differing vegetation types and degrees of environmental access. The differing environments produced similar cultural environmental narratives, leading to new understandings in community environment relationships. Children living near the state administered forest had significantly less environmental knowledge, bringing about questions of sustainable bio-cultural diversity in the future. The recognition of cultural environmental values is especially important in the rural areas of South Africa, where unemployment and increased poverty levels have led to greater dependence on natural resources for social, economic and cultural purposes. It is proposed that local cultural environmental narratives and landscape perceptions be included into community conservation and environmental education policies and programmes to provide local solutions to the problem of biodiversity conservation in local contexts.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Alexander, Jamie Kim
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Children and the environment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Environmental education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Oral tradition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social learning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional ecological knowledge -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:6061 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015267
- Description: Preservationist conservation created a legacy of national parks and protected areas that were surrounded by local people dispossessed of their land and denied the rights to use the resources they had previously relied upon. Although conservation is now shifting towards a more participatory approach, research gaps still exist in determining the meaning of 'the environment' and the role of local means of conservation in rural communities in South Africa. This study focused on children's cultural environmental narratives from two rural villages in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Children from grades 4, 7 and 10 were involved in the study, and adult family members, local experts and village elders were included in the study to allow for comparison between children's and adult's narratives and to realise what Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) was being passed on. This thesis considers children's use of the environment for play and their sense of place as key methods in ascertaining children's environmental narratives and perceptions. At both field sites, local experts and community elders possessed a wealth of cultural environmental narratives, but these narratives were not necessarily being passed on. Changing household structures and other socio-economic factors influence cultural environmental practices, which in turn have an impact on the cultural environmental narratives being passed down. In many cases, parents' safety fears strongly impacted upon children's access to the environment, resulting in gendered environmental knowledge. The study compared differing vegetation types and degrees of environmental access. The differing environments produced similar cultural environmental narratives, leading to new understandings in community environment relationships. Children living near the state administered forest had significantly less environmental knowledge, bringing about questions of sustainable bio-cultural diversity in the future. The recognition of cultural environmental values is especially important in the rural areas of South Africa, where unemployment and increased poverty levels have led to greater dependence on natural resources for social, economic and cultural purposes. It is proposed that local cultural environmental narratives and landscape perceptions be included into community conservation and environmental education policies and programmes to provide local solutions to the problem of biodiversity conservation in local contexts.
- Full Text:
Feeding ecology and diet shift of long-beaked common dolphins Delphinus Capensis (Gray 1828) incidentally caught in anti-shark nets off Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Ambrose, Shan Taryn
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Common dolphin -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Food -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Sardinops sagax -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5697 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005383 , Common dolphin -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Food -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Sardinops sagax -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal
- Description: The long-beaked common dolphin, Delphinus capensis (Gray 1828), is one of the most enigmatic predators feeding in the annual sardine run (Sardinops sagax) off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. In recent years, unpredictable inter-annual variations in the timing, spatial extent and intensity of the sardine run have been documented, possibly resulting in changes in the suite of prey available to the common dolphin during winter. Although the diets of a number of predators during the sardine run have been studied in detail (e.g. sharks and flying seabirds), little is known about the diet of long-beaked common dolphins during this period. Each year, a low number of common dolphins are incidentally caught in the anti-shark nets in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal. These captures provide a valuable source of data on selected aspects of the ecology of the long-beaked common dolphins along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. The objective of this study was to provide new dietary data for the common dolphins feeding in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal during winter over the period 2000 to 2009, as well as to determine if any dietary changes had taken place since the common dolphin diet was last assessed, over 15 years ago. Stomach contents from 95 common dolphins (55 females, 40 males) caught between 2000 and 2009 were analysed and compared to historical data from dolphins caught between 1974 and 1992. Mesopelagic fish and squid dominated the diet, with 23 fish and 5 squid species represented in adult dolphins. Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) indicated that there was no resource partitioning between adult male and female dolphins. Numerical analyses indicated that there was a shift in the principal prey species consumed by the dolphins over the past decade, particularly during the winter. Prior to 1992, sardine comprised up to 49% of the total stomach contents, while chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) was the dominant prey item (66% by mass) recorded in the stomach contents over the period 2000 to 2009. The shift in the relative contributions of sardine and mackerel in the diets of the dolphin appeared to correspond to fluctuations in the availability of the two principal prey species. Between 2000 and 2009, the diversity of the dolphins' diets was highest during the sardine run, reflecting the presence of a wide suite of predatory teleosts in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal during the annual sardine run. Conversely, prior to 2000, the diet was dominated by sardine during the peak of the sardine run, whilst diet diversity increased after this period. Apart from sardine and chub mackerel, elf (Pomatomus saltatrix), maasbanker (Trachurus delagoa), strepie (Sarpa salpa) and flying fish (Exocoetid sp.) also formed important components of the diet both prior to 1992, and over the last decade. Blubber thickness was assessed as an indicator of animal condition. No significant change in blubber total weight (R² = 0.0016, N = 185), nor dorsal, lateral or ventral blubber thickness (R² = 0.3146, R² = 0.0003, and R² = 0.0003 respectively, N = 78) was seen over the last 30 years (1970 to 2009). Results of stable isotope analyses conducted on tissue derived from the teeth of D. capensis indicated that there has been no significant shift in the trophic position (δ¹⁵N) and potential prey consumed (δ¹³C) over the corresponding period. These data would suggest that the long-beaked common dolphins along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline can be considered as opportunistic predators generally consuming the most abundant prey species available locally. As common dolphins feed opportunistically, this dietary shift appears to indicate changes in the shoaling characteristics of the most abundant fish prey in KwaZulu-Natal during winter. Given the “Data Deficient” status of the long-beaked common dolphin on the IUCN Red Data List, and the strong climatic forcing of the sardine run, such dietary data have important implications for their conservation in the light of expanding fisheries and climate change.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ambrose, Shan Taryn
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Common dolphin -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Food -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Sardinops sagax -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5697 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005383 , Common dolphin -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Food -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Common dolphin -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal , Sardinops sagax -- South Africa -- Kwazulu-Natal
- Description: The long-beaked common dolphin, Delphinus capensis (Gray 1828), is one of the most enigmatic predators feeding in the annual sardine run (Sardinops sagax) off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. In recent years, unpredictable inter-annual variations in the timing, spatial extent and intensity of the sardine run have been documented, possibly resulting in changes in the suite of prey available to the common dolphin during winter. Although the diets of a number of predators during the sardine run have been studied in detail (e.g. sharks and flying seabirds), little is known about the diet of long-beaked common dolphins during this period. Each year, a low number of common dolphins are incidentally caught in the anti-shark nets in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal. These captures provide a valuable source of data on selected aspects of the ecology of the long-beaked common dolphins along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. The objective of this study was to provide new dietary data for the common dolphins feeding in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal during winter over the period 2000 to 2009, as well as to determine if any dietary changes had taken place since the common dolphin diet was last assessed, over 15 years ago. Stomach contents from 95 common dolphins (55 females, 40 males) caught between 2000 and 2009 were analysed and compared to historical data from dolphins caught between 1974 and 1992. Mesopelagic fish and squid dominated the diet, with 23 fish and 5 squid species represented in adult dolphins. Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) indicated that there was no resource partitioning between adult male and female dolphins. Numerical analyses indicated that there was a shift in the principal prey species consumed by the dolphins over the past decade, particularly during the winter. Prior to 1992, sardine comprised up to 49% of the total stomach contents, while chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) was the dominant prey item (66% by mass) recorded in the stomach contents over the period 2000 to 2009. The shift in the relative contributions of sardine and mackerel in the diets of the dolphin appeared to correspond to fluctuations in the availability of the two principal prey species. Between 2000 and 2009, the diversity of the dolphins' diets was highest during the sardine run, reflecting the presence of a wide suite of predatory teleosts in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal during the annual sardine run. Conversely, prior to 2000, the diet was dominated by sardine during the peak of the sardine run, whilst diet diversity increased after this period. Apart from sardine and chub mackerel, elf (Pomatomus saltatrix), maasbanker (Trachurus delagoa), strepie (Sarpa salpa) and flying fish (Exocoetid sp.) also formed important components of the diet both prior to 1992, and over the last decade. Blubber thickness was assessed as an indicator of animal condition. No significant change in blubber total weight (R² = 0.0016, N = 185), nor dorsal, lateral or ventral blubber thickness (R² = 0.3146, R² = 0.0003, and R² = 0.0003 respectively, N = 78) was seen over the last 30 years (1970 to 2009). Results of stable isotope analyses conducted on tissue derived from the teeth of D. capensis indicated that there has been no significant shift in the trophic position (δ¹⁵N) and potential prey consumed (δ¹³C) over the corresponding period. These data would suggest that the long-beaked common dolphins along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline can be considered as opportunistic predators generally consuming the most abundant prey species available locally. As common dolphins feed opportunistically, this dietary shift appears to indicate changes in the shoaling characteristics of the most abundant fish prey in KwaZulu-Natal during winter. Given the “Data Deficient” status of the long-beaked common dolphin on the IUCN Red Data List, and the strong climatic forcing of the sardine run, such dietary data have important implications for their conservation in the light of expanding fisheries and climate change.
- Full Text:
Where leaders learn: constructions of leadership and leadership development at Rhodes University
- Authors: Andrews, Rushda Ruth
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Leadership -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Leadership -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Development leadership -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Rhodes University -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003903
- Description: This thesis explores the Where Leaders Learn slogan of Rhodes University. It does this by means of an analysis of discourses constructing leadership and leadership development within the institutional context. The discourse analysis was made possible as a result of interviews with a range of people involved in leadership and leadership development at the University. The analysis revealed that leadership development is constructed as taking place within a highly structured system that enables instructional and managerial leadership but constrains transformational leadership. The discourses that give meaning and understanding to the construct of leadership draw heavily on position within a hierarchy. The discourse of functional efficiency is enabled through practices related to reward, recognition, succession planning and mentorship which all serve to replicate the existing leadership structures creating more of the same and in essence stifling the potential for emancipatory leadership. The analysis also shows that a discourse of collegiality serves to create a false sense of a common understanding of leadership in the light of evidence of uncertainty and contestation around the meaning of the slogan Where Leaders Learn and, by association, the very construct of leadership. The discursive process of understanding leadership and developing an institutional theory for the purposes of infusing this into a curriculum poses many challenges. Barriers to new ways of thinking reside within the researchers' ontological and epistemological commitments. This amplifies the need for a more reflective ontology towards leadership and its consequences, especially so in a multidisciplinary environment such as Rhodes University.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Andrews, Rushda Ruth
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Leadership -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Leadership -- Research -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Development leadership -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Rhodes University -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003903
- Description: This thesis explores the Where Leaders Learn slogan of Rhodes University. It does this by means of an analysis of discourses constructing leadership and leadership development within the institutional context. The discourse analysis was made possible as a result of interviews with a range of people involved in leadership and leadership development at the University. The analysis revealed that leadership development is constructed as taking place within a highly structured system that enables instructional and managerial leadership but constrains transformational leadership. The discourses that give meaning and understanding to the construct of leadership draw heavily on position within a hierarchy. The discourse of functional efficiency is enabled through practices related to reward, recognition, succession planning and mentorship which all serve to replicate the existing leadership structures creating more of the same and in essence stifling the potential for emancipatory leadership. The analysis also shows that a discourse of collegiality serves to create a false sense of a common understanding of leadership in the light of evidence of uncertainty and contestation around the meaning of the slogan Where Leaders Learn and, by association, the very construct of leadership. The discursive process of understanding leadership and developing an institutional theory for the purposes of infusing this into a curriculum poses many challenges. Barriers to new ways of thinking reside within the researchers' ontological and epistemological commitments. This amplifies the need for a more reflective ontology towards leadership and its consequences, especially so in a multidisciplinary environment such as Rhodes University.
- Full Text:
An art based support programme for the amelioration of general psychological distress in marginalised children in South Africa
- Authors: Armstrong, Meredith
- Date: 2011 , 2011-06-28
- Subjects: Art therapy for children Child mental health Group psychotherapy for children Abused children -- Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3096 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003730
- Description: This study aimed to construct, and implement an in-school "art expression" based programme designed to aid in mitigation of psychological stress, behavioural difficulties, and self-negativity frequently experienced by marginalised children. It was developed for application within schools that cater for children exposed to neglect and/or abuse resulting from poverty in South Africa. This programme outline was developed and implemented through intensive exploration and review of previously effective art therapy, art expressive methods and techniques in similar contexts, together with the knowledge and experience of a qualified art therapist and educational psychologist. Data was collected through open-ended informal qualitative interviews, observations, and photographs of artworks produced during sessions. These were then analysed in conjunction, using the content analysis method, visual interpretive measures and thematic analysis. This enquiry documented the process of art creation through "art expression", and its ability to ameliorate psychological difficulties affecting marginalised children in South Africa. Following the establishment of trust between the researchers and the participants, the results found that the use of different art modalities demonstrated predominantly positive results in varying degrees. It is hoped that this study can be used to further practical interventions of this nature in comparable milieus in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Armstrong, Meredith
- Date: 2011 , 2011-06-28
- Subjects: Art therapy for children Child mental health Group psychotherapy for children Abused children -- Mental health
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3096 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003730
- Description: This study aimed to construct, and implement an in-school "art expression" based programme designed to aid in mitigation of psychological stress, behavioural difficulties, and self-negativity frequently experienced by marginalised children. It was developed for application within schools that cater for children exposed to neglect and/or abuse resulting from poverty in South Africa. This programme outline was developed and implemented through intensive exploration and review of previously effective art therapy, art expressive methods and techniques in similar contexts, together with the knowledge and experience of a qualified art therapist and educational psychologist. Data was collected through open-ended informal qualitative interviews, observations, and photographs of artworks produced during sessions. These were then analysed in conjunction, using the content analysis method, visual interpretive measures and thematic analysis. This enquiry documented the process of art creation through "art expression", and its ability to ameliorate psychological difficulties affecting marginalised children in South Africa. Following the establishment of trust between the researchers and the participants, the results found that the use of different art modalities demonstrated predominantly positive results in varying degrees. It is hoped that this study can be used to further practical interventions of this nature in comparable milieus in South Africa.
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The strategic management of intellectual capital : a case study in the banking and financial services sector in Zambia
- Authors: Banda, Japhet Mathias
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Intellectual capital -- Management , Intellectual capital -- Zambia , Banks and banking -- Zambia , Financial services industry -- Management -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002795 , Intellectual capital -- Management , Intellectual capital -- Zambia , Banks and banking -- Zambia , Financial services industry -- Management -- Zambia
- Description: Fundamental changes in the global economy are changing the basis of organisational competitive advantage. The challenge in attaining a competitive advantage is characterised by factors such as increased competition, market volatility, geographically dispersed operations, customer awareness, raising workforce diversity and stringent regulatory regimes. These factors have driven, and in turn have been driven by, an increasing complexity of products, services and the processes that create value, resulting in changes in the structural and functional dimensions of the organisation. Business executives and academics recognise the shift in value creating assets from the traditional land, labour and capital to intangible assets such as knowledge and information becoming the most important resources an organisation can muster.The combination and integration of intangible assets such as human resources, structural and relational resources has been grouped under the umbrella of intellectual capital. This study comprises of a single descriptive case study analysis to ascertain how intellectual capital is managed strategically to gain a competitive advantage in an organisation in the banking and financial services sector in Zambia. Based on document review and semi-structured interviews, this thesis investigated the extent to which an organisation in the banking and financial services sector in Zambia leveraged intellectual capital to gain competitive advantage. In this study it was found that there is a low level appreciation of the intellectual capital phenomenon as a strategic management tool in the participating organisation. However, the organisation has adopted aspects of intellectual capital and has implemented them successfully accounting for the organisation‘s competitive edge in the market.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Banda, Japhet Mathias
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Intellectual capital -- Management , Intellectual capital -- Zambia , Banks and banking -- Zambia , Financial services industry -- Management -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002795 , Intellectual capital -- Management , Intellectual capital -- Zambia , Banks and banking -- Zambia , Financial services industry -- Management -- Zambia
- Description: Fundamental changes in the global economy are changing the basis of organisational competitive advantage. The challenge in attaining a competitive advantage is characterised by factors such as increased competition, market volatility, geographically dispersed operations, customer awareness, raising workforce diversity and stringent regulatory regimes. These factors have driven, and in turn have been driven by, an increasing complexity of products, services and the processes that create value, resulting in changes in the structural and functional dimensions of the organisation. Business executives and academics recognise the shift in value creating assets from the traditional land, labour and capital to intangible assets such as knowledge and information becoming the most important resources an organisation can muster.The combination and integration of intangible assets such as human resources, structural and relational resources has been grouped under the umbrella of intellectual capital. This study comprises of a single descriptive case study analysis to ascertain how intellectual capital is managed strategically to gain a competitive advantage in an organisation in the banking and financial services sector in Zambia. Based on document review and semi-structured interviews, this thesis investigated the extent to which an organisation in the banking and financial services sector in Zambia leveraged intellectual capital to gain competitive advantage. In this study it was found that there is a low level appreciation of the intellectual capital phenomenon as a strategic management tool in the participating organisation. However, the organisation has adopted aspects of intellectual capital and has implemented them successfully accounting for the organisation‘s competitive edge in the market.
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Adjustment of commercial banks' interest rates and the effectiveness of monetary policy: evidence from Anglophone West Africa
- Authors: Bangura, Lamin
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Africa, West , Banks and banking -- Africa, West , Interest rates -- Africa, West
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002685 , Monetary policy -- Africa, West , Banks and banking -- Africa, West , Interest rates -- Africa, West
- Description: Most central banks use short-term interest rates as their main instrument of monetary policy. It is assumed that a change in policy rate will influence interest rates set by commercial banks, but this is not usually the case. Commercial banks adjust their interest rates in response to changes in policy rate with lags, which make their interest rates sticky. Stickiness in commercial banks interest rates have been seen as an obstacle to the smooth transmission of monetary policy decisions. Despite the importance of the transmission process, little attention has been given to a systematic measurement of the degree of response of commercial banks‟ interest rates to changes in monetary policy stance in the Anglophone West African countries, specifically within the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) economies. Against this backdrop, this study explores the interest rate adjustment dynamics using monthly interest rate series on discount rate, treasury bill rate, commercial banks‟ deposit and lending rates from 1989 to 2009 (for Gambia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone) and from 2000 to 2009 (for Ghana). Specifically, the study set out to examine how lending and deposit rates respond to changes in the official rates and to see whether there is a convergence among the rates over time. Also, to examine the relative adjustment of commercial bank lending rates to changes in the official rate when there is disequilibrium. The analyses were twofold: a full sample period and a rolling window analysis. Following Cottarelli and Kourelis (1994), the study employed cointegration technique and an asymmetric error correction model to obtain the short-run and long-run parameters from which the error correction coefficients, mean adjustment lags and asymmetric mean adjustment lags were estimated. The results for the entire sample period revealed that the long-run pass-through in Nigeria was 81% and 67% for lending rates and deposit rates respectively. In Ghana, it was 66% and 69% for lending and deposit rates respectively. While in Sierra Leone, long-run pass-through was 62% and 72% for lending and deposit rates respectively. In Gambia, it was 50% and 40% for lending and deposit rates respectively. On the other hand, the short-run pass-through was found to be lower compared to the long-run pass-through: in Nigeria it was 66% and 47%; in Gambia, 26% and 29%; in Sierra Leone, 30% and 13%; and in Ghana, -6% and 35% for lending and deposit rates respectively in each country. The pass-through estimates for the rolling windows were mixed for short-run and long-run pass-through. The mean adjustment lags suggest that the speed of adjustment of Lending rates for full sample period were two, two, seven and twelve months in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Gambia respectively. While for deposit rates they were five, six, seven and eighteen for Ghana, Nigeria, Gambia and Sierra Leone respectively. The average speeds of adjustment for the rolling windows were four and five months for lending and deposit rates respectively. Weak evidence of convergence was found in lending and deposit rates in the short-run and long-run pass-through among the countries. However, the results suggest that the magnitude and speed of the pass-through amongst the countries on average were high compared to emerging Asian countries. Significant asymmetric adjustments were found in the lending rates for Gambia and Sierra Leone, while in Gambia and Nigeria there were asymmetries in deposit rates. Based on the evidence provided, interest rate pass-through is high in Nigeria and Ghana compared to Gambia and Sierra Leone and this calls for the harmonization of financial policies on the part of the financial authorities in the WAMZ. Viewed solely from an interest rate pass-through, the lack of convergence among the countries suggests that WAMZ is far from ready for a monetary union. The relatively low pass-through in some of the countries suggests rigidity in the banking system which may be due to underdevelopment of the system. Thus efforts geared toward strengthening the banking system and the financial system as whole would further enhance the prospect of a monetary union among them.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bangura, Lamin
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Africa, West , Banks and banking -- Africa, West , Interest rates -- Africa, West
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:951 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002685 , Monetary policy -- Africa, West , Banks and banking -- Africa, West , Interest rates -- Africa, West
- Description: Most central banks use short-term interest rates as their main instrument of monetary policy. It is assumed that a change in policy rate will influence interest rates set by commercial banks, but this is not usually the case. Commercial banks adjust their interest rates in response to changes in policy rate with lags, which make their interest rates sticky. Stickiness in commercial banks interest rates have been seen as an obstacle to the smooth transmission of monetary policy decisions. Despite the importance of the transmission process, little attention has been given to a systematic measurement of the degree of response of commercial banks‟ interest rates to changes in monetary policy stance in the Anglophone West African countries, specifically within the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) economies. Against this backdrop, this study explores the interest rate adjustment dynamics using monthly interest rate series on discount rate, treasury bill rate, commercial banks‟ deposit and lending rates from 1989 to 2009 (for Gambia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone) and from 2000 to 2009 (for Ghana). Specifically, the study set out to examine how lending and deposit rates respond to changes in the official rates and to see whether there is a convergence among the rates over time. Also, to examine the relative adjustment of commercial bank lending rates to changes in the official rate when there is disequilibrium. The analyses were twofold: a full sample period and a rolling window analysis. Following Cottarelli and Kourelis (1994), the study employed cointegration technique and an asymmetric error correction model to obtain the short-run and long-run parameters from which the error correction coefficients, mean adjustment lags and asymmetric mean adjustment lags were estimated. The results for the entire sample period revealed that the long-run pass-through in Nigeria was 81% and 67% for lending rates and deposit rates respectively. In Ghana, it was 66% and 69% for lending and deposit rates respectively. While in Sierra Leone, long-run pass-through was 62% and 72% for lending and deposit rates respectively. In Gambia, it was 50% and 40% for lending and deposit rates respectively. On the other hand, the short-run pass-through was found to be lower compared to the long-run pass-through: in Nigeria it was 66% and 47%; in Gambia, 26% and 29%; in Sierra Leone, 30% and 13%; and in Ghana, -6% and 35% for lending and deposit rates respectively in each country. The pass-through estimates for the rolling windows were mixed for short-run and long-run pass-through. The mean adjustment lags suggest that the speed of adjustment of Lending rates for full sample period were two, two, seven and twelve months in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Gambia respectively. While for deposit rates they were five, six, seven and eighteen for Ghana, Nigeria, Gambia and Sierra Leone respectively. The average speeds of adjustment for the rolling windows were four and five months for lending and deposit rates respectively. Weak evidence of convergence was found in lending and deposit rates in the short-run and long-run pass-through among the countries. However, the results suggest that the magnitude and speed of the pass-through amongst the countries on average were high compared to emerging Asian countries. Significant asymmetric adjustments were found in the lending rates for Gambia and Sierra Leone, while in Gambia and Nigeria there were asymmetries in deposit rates. Based on the evidence provided, interest rate pass-through is high in Nigeria and Ghana compared to Gambia and Sierra Leone and this calls for the harmonization of financial policies on the part of the financial authorities in the WAMZ. Viewed solely from an interest rate pass-through, the lack of convergence among the countries suggests that WAMZ is far from ready for a monetary union. The relatively low pass-through in some of the countries suggests rigidity in the banking system which may be due to underdevelopment of the system. Thus efforts geared toward strengthening the banking system and the financial system as whole would further enhance the prospect of a monetary union among them.
- Full Text:
Seductive Manoeuvres: an analysis of the use of feminist performance strategies as a means of staging alternative sexualities in two dance theatre works
- Authors: Barnard, Joni
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76823 , vital:30627
- Description: Located within the discipline of Performance Studies, this thesis seeks to validate performance and theatre, specifically dance theatre, as legitimate fields of research and enquiry that can enrich the polemics surrounding discourse, representation, the body and identity. Within this thesis I explore and analyse the creative processes and performance strategies used in two dance theatres works: Acty Tang’s Chaste (2007) and my own work entitled Displayed and Framed (2008) and how these strategies support the staging of alternative sexualities. I argue that the staging of alternative sexualities calls for an alternative approach to the performance strategies utilised in the production of space, the representations of the body and the use of text in both works. Each work offers a particular exploration of gender and sexuality in the attempt to represent alternative identities, alternative bodies and alternative sexualities. In this thesis I identify the endeavour to stage ‘otherness’ as a feminist endeavour and thus identify the performance strategies utilised in each work as feminist performance strategies. Through my analysis I wish to highlight the ways in which a feminist approach can contribute to and enrich both the staging of and understanding of alternative sexualities. In both Chaste (2007) and Displayed and Framed (2008), the choreographers of each work are also performers in their own work in an endeavour to explore and represent their own identity. The analysis of my own work requires that I play the multiple roles of choreographer, performer and researcher. In this analysis I provide accounts of my own experiences, processes and struggles of creating Displayed and Framed (2008) which are analysed in conjunction with my readings of Chaste (2007) and Tang’s personal experiences in creating the work. Thus this thesis explores the value of reflection and self reflectivity in the processes of creating performance.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Barnard, Joni
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76823 , vital:30627
- Description: Located within the discipline of Performance Studies, this thesis seeks to validate performance and theatre, specifically dance theatre, as legitimate fields of research and enquiry that can enrich the polemics surrounding discourse, representation, the body and identity. Within this thesis I explore and analyse the creative processes and performance strategies used in two dance theatres works: Acty Tang’s Chaste (2007) and my own work entitled Displayed and Framed (2008) and how these strategies support the staging of alternative sexualities. I argue that the staging of alternative sexualities calls for an alternative approach to the performance strategies utilised in the production of space, the representations of the body and the use of text in both works. Each work offers a particular exploration of gender and sexuality in the attempt to represent alternative identities, alternative bodies and alternative sexualities. In this thesis I identify the endeavour to stage ‘otherness’ as a feminist endeavour and thus identify the performance strategies utilised in each work as feminist performance strategies. Through my analysis I wish to highlight the ways in which a feminist approach can contribute to and enrich both the staging of and understanding of alternative sexualities. In both Chaste (2007) and Displayed and Framed (2008), the choreographers of each work are also performers in their own work in an endeavour to explore and represent their own identity. The analysis of my own work requires that I play the multiple roles of choreographer, performer and researcher. In this analysis I provide accounts of my own experiences, processes and struggles of creating Displayed and Framed (2008) which are analysed in conjunction with my readings of Chaste (2007) and Tang’s personal experiences in creating the work. Thus this thesis explores the value of reflection and self reflectivity in the processes of creating performance.
- Full Text:
The role of teacher cognition in the integration of technology into English teaching: a case study
- Authors: Baron, Elizabeth Mary
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: English teachers -- Effect of technological innovations on English teachers -- Psychology English teachers -- Attitudes Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- Computer-assisted instruction Educational technology Computer-assisted instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1753 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003637
- Description: Technology, in one or more of its various forms, is now a part of everyday life for most South African citizens. Many schools are equipped with various forms of technology, at great cost to sponsors, schools, parents or the government. However, this technology is not always exploited and full use is not made of it. As access is not the issue, other factors needed to be considered: in this case, teachers’ beliefs, attitudes and knowledge. This thesis explores the cognitive factors which affect the acceptance and use of technology. Teacher cognition and the factors which influence teacher cognition were examined. Following Borg, teacher cognition is defined as “the unobservable cognitive dimension of teaching – what teachers know, believe and think” (Borg, 2003, p. 81). Teacher cognition determines whether or not a teacher will use technology, if the external barrier of access is removed. In order to study the various aspect of teacher cognition, a case study was performed, which studied 6 teachers at 4 schools. All the schools in this study had some level of access to technology. Following Borg, initial experiences with the educational system (i.e. the teacher’s experience as a learner), teacher training, the context the teacher worked in (as well as social factors and private use) and classroom experience were all examined in order to discover the factors which most affect technology acceptance in teaching. The findings show that having easy access to well-maintained and functioning technology cannot be underestimated. In the study, support from other teachers, particularly those in leadership roles, led to an increase in technology use. This support needed to be explicit; general support did not seem to be effective. These findings suggest that technology integration needs to happen at a ‘whole school’ level.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Baron, Elizabeth Mary
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: English teachers -- Effect of technological innovations on English teachers -- Psychology English teachers -- Attitudes Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- Computer-assisted instruction Educational technology Computer-assisted instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1753 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003637
- Description: Technology, in one or more of its various forms, is now a part of everyday life for most South African citizens. Many schools are equipped with various forms of technology, at great cost to sponsors, schools, parents or the government. However, this technology is not always exploited and full use is not made of it. As access is not the issue, other factors needed to be considered: in this case, teachers’ beliefs, attitudes and knowledge. This thesis explores the cognitive factors which affect the acceptance and use of technology. Teacher cognition and the factors which influence teacher cognition were examined. Following Borg, teacher cognition is defined as “the unobservable cognitive dimension of teaching – what teachers know, believe and think” (Borg, 2003, p. 81). Teacher cognition determines whether or not a teacher will use technology, if the external barrier of access is removed. In order to study the various aspect of teacher cognition, a case study was performed, which studied 6 teachers at 4 schools. All the schools in this study had some level of access to technology. Following Borg, initial experiences with the educational system (i.e. the teacher’s experience as a learner), teacher training, the context the teacher worked in (as well as social factors and private use) and classroom experience were all examined in order to discover the factors which most affect technology acceptance in teaching. The findings show that having easy access to well-maintained and functioning technology cannot be underestimated. In the study, support from other teachers, particularly those in leadership roles, led to an increase in technology use. This support needed to be explicit; general support did not seem to be effective. These findings suggest that technology integration needs to happen at a ‘whole school’ level.
- Full Text:
A regulationist approach to South Africa and a critique of inflation targeting
- Authors: Bax, Ryan Michael Jonathan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa International finance Economic development -- South Africa Sustainable development -- South Africa Inflation targeting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1036 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004533
- Description: Since the 1970s, the international economic system has become prone to the volatility and undue effects associated with booms and busts. This forty year period spanning the present has exhibited restrained growth and repressive economic development. Critical changes to the system are presented by the transition from "Fordism" to the post 1970s neoliberal regime and the globalization of world markets. Underpinning this transformation is an ideological shift towards free market capitalism and the adoption of "reduced form" market models. These "reduced form" models appear to hinder economic sustainability as their grounding in economics fails to account for real economic activity. This thesis aims to provide a more holistic perception of sustainability, one that provides a sound basis on which to develop sustainable economic policy. The Regulationist Approach presents the requisite understanding of economic sustainability required within this research. The inclusion of economic, historical and socio-political fields of research proposes a wider understanding of the political economy and sustainability. The application of the Regulation Approach to the South African economy illustrates many problem areas that require attention. The examination found that firstly, aggregate demand in the South African economy was unsustainable due to the debt driven nature of demand under the asset price bubble of the mid to late 2000s. Secondly, aggregate supply also proved unsustainable as government is failing to provide any substantive growth within important sectors of the economy such as education and the provision of general services. Furthermore, the adoption of inflation targeting in South Africa poses a barrier to sustained economic growth as it focuses singularly on price inflation. The "reduced form" model of inflation targeting fails to account for market failures and a number of vital indicators of sustainability most notably, debt levels and asset prices. The inclusion of these indicators, and financial stability more generally, are found to provide a more holistic and sustainable approach to macroeconomic policymaking.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bax, Ryan Michael Jonathan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa International finance Economic development -- South Africa Sustainable development -- South Africa Inflation targeting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1036 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004533
- Description: Since the 1970s, the international economic system has become prone to the volatility and undue effects associated with booms and busts. This forty year period spanning the present has exhibited restrained growth and repressive economic development. Critical changes to the system are presented by the transition from "Fordism" to the post 1970s neoliberal regime and the globalization of world markets. Underpinning this transformation is an ideological shift towards free market capitalism and the adoption of "reduced form" market models. These "reduced form" models appear to hinder economic sustainability as their grounding in economics fails to account for real economic activity. This thesis aims to provide a more holistic perception of sustainability, one that provides a sound basis on which to develop sustainable economic policy. The Regulationist Approach presents the requisite understanding of economic sustainability required within this research. The inclusion of economic, historical and socio-political fields of research proposes a wider understanding of the political economy and sustainability. The application of the Regulation Approach to the South African economy illustrates many problem areas that require attention. The examination found that firstly, aggregate demand in the South African economy was unsustainable due to the debt driven nature of demand under the asset price bubble of the mid to late 2000s. Secondly, aggregate supply also proved unsustainable as government is failing to provide any substantive growth within important sectors of the economy such as education and the provision of general services. Furthermore, the adoption of inflation targeting in South Africa poses a barrier to sustained economic growth as it focuses singularly on price inflation. The "reduced form" model of inflation targeting fails to account for market failures and a number of vital indicators of sustainability most notably, debt levels and asset prices. The inclusion of these indicators, and financial stability more generally, are found to provide a more holistic and sustainable approach to macroeconomic policymaking.
- Full Text:
The diversity of aquatic insects in the Tsitsikamma region, with implications for aquatic ecosystem conservation
- Authors: Bellingan, Terence Andrew
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Aquatic insects -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic insects -- Classification -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic ecology -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Ecosystem management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Stream conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5664 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005348 , Aquatic insects -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic insects -- Classification -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic ecology -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Ecosystem management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Stream conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Description: As a result of research carried out within the last decade to assess the diversity of macroinvertebrates of the Salt River in the Western Cape Province, South Africa, surveys of macroinvertebrates of 20 sites on 11 selected rivers from the same mountain range source were undertaken. This was done to make a preliminary assessment of the conservation status of the rivers of this region. Aquatic insects from the orders Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Plecoptera, Megaloptera, Trichoptera and the dipteran family Simuliidae were collected using techniques to maximize the number of taxa found. The insects collected were identified to species level where possible. Water physicochemical parameters were recorded at all sites for each sampling trip to characterize these rivers and to establish a set of baseline data for future comparisons. These parameters included measurements made on site and analysis of the concentrations of all the major ions in water samples in the laboratory. Multivariate analyses including Principle Components Analysis and Canonical Correspondence Analysis were used to reveal patterns within the water physicochemistry and species distributional data. Results include the identification of 123 species from 70 genera and 30 families. A total of 31 species were found to be undescribed, of which 17 were not previously collected and are thus completely new to science. In addition, four of these species could not be placed into any known genus. The analysis of water physicochemistry showed a clear distinction between rivers of Table Mountain sandstone and Bokkeveld shale origin. Downstream effects of anthropogenic influences were discernable too. Distinct macroinvertebrate assemblages were found based upon stream order and water chemistry composition. pH proved to be the most important driver of invertebrate assemblage composition. The high levels of endemism of the macroinvertebrates found within the upper reaches of these rivers and their degree of ecological specialization make these systems a priority for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity on a national and global scale.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bellingan, Terence Andrew
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Aquatic insects -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic insects -- Classification -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic ecology -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Ecosystem management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Stream conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5664 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005348 , Aquatic insects -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic insects -- Classification -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Aquatic ecology -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Ecosystem management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Stream conservation -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma
- Description: As a result of research carried out within the last decade to assess the diversity of macroinvertebrates of the Salt River in the Western Cape Province, South Africa, surveys of macroinvertebrates of 20 sites on 11 selected rivers from the same mountain range source were undertaken. This was done to make a preliminary assessment of the conservation status of the rivers of this region. Aquatic insects from the orders Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Plecoptera, Megaloptera, Trichoptera and the dipteran family Simuliidae were collected using techniques to maximize the number of taxa found. The insects collected were identified to species level where possible. Water physicochemical parameters were recorded at all sites for each sampling trip to characterize these rivers and to establish a set of baseline data for future comparisons. These parameters included measurements made on site and analysis of the concentrations of all the major ions in water samples in the laboratory. Multivariate analyses including Principle Components Analysis and Canonical Correspondence Analysis were used to reveal patterns within the water physicochemistry and species distributional data. Results include the identification of 123 species from 70 genera and 30 families. A total of 31 species were found to be undescribed, of which 17 were not previously collected and are thus completely new to science. In addition, four of these species could not be placed into any known genus. The analysis of water physicochemistry showed a clear distinction between rivers of Table Mountain sandstone and Bokkeveld shale origin. Downstream effects of anthropogenic influences were discernable too. Distinct macroinvertebrate assemblages were found based upon stream order and water chemistry composition. pH proved to be the most important driver of invertebrate assemblage composition. The high levels of endemism of the macroinvertebrates found within the upper reaches of these rivers and their degree of ecological specialization make these systems a priority for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity on a national and global scale.
- Full Text:
Financial integration in East Africa: evidence from interest rate pass-through analysis
- Authors: Bholla, Zohaib Salim
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: East African Community -- Economic integration East African Community -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Interest rates -- Africa, East Interest rates -- Econometric models -- Africa, East Interest rates -- Effect of inflation on -- Africa, East Banks and banking -- Africa, East
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006131
- Description: The successful launch of the European Monetary Union (EMU) raised an already ever growing interest in the economics of monetary integration and the formation of monetary unions around the world. Following the EMU experience, countries have considered forming a monetary union amongst themselves. The East African Community (EAC), comprising the three original member countries Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda and now including Burundi and Rwanda, is an example of such a group of countries that seek to form a monetary union. This study aims to identify the current level of financial integration amongst the East African countries. In order to do so the study examines whether the pass-through of monetary policy in the five countries has become similar over time. This is to provide an indication of the extent to which the nominal convergence criteria amongst the member countries have been met. The results of the study provide an indication of whether the formation of a monetary union in East Africa is possible. The empirical analysis used in this study included stationarity tests, four tests of co integration and an asymmetric error correction model to investigate whether the pass-through of monetary policy transmission in the five countries has become more similar over the ten year sample period from 1999 to 2008. The analysis uses three interest rates and 6-year rolling windows to identify the extent of macroeconomic convergence that prevails within the EAC, and consequently whether the formation of a monetary union is possible. The results suggest that the magnitude of the convergence amongst the countries remain low and there are significant rigidities in the deposit and lending rates over time, however the passthrough has improved with respect to the lending rate but not the deposit rate. The overall conclusion of the study suggests that an EAC wide monetary union is currently not possible based on the evidence provided from the pass-through analysis.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bholla, Zohaib Salim
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: East African Community -- Economic integration East African Community -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Interest rates -- Africa, East Interest rates -- Econometric models -- Africa, East Interest rates -- Effect of inflation on -- Africa, East Banks and banking -- Africa, East
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006131
- Description: The successful launch of the European Monetary Union (EMU) raised an already ever growing interest in the economics of monetary integration and the formation of monetary unions around the world. Following the EMU experience, countries have considered forming a monetary union amongst themselves. The East African Community (EAC), comprising the three original member countries Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda and now including Burundi and Rwanda, is an example of such a group of countries that seek to form a monetary union. This study aims to identify the current level of financial integration amongst the East African countries. In order to do so the study examines whether the pass-through of monetary policy in the five countries has become similar over time. This is to provide an indication of the extent to which the nominal convergence criteria amongst the member countries have been met. The results of the study provide an indication of whether the formation of a monetary union in East Africa is possible. The empirical analysis used in this study included stationarity tests, four tests of co integration and an asymmetric error correction model to investigate whether the pass-through of monetary policy transmission in the five countries has become more similar over the ten year sample period from 1999 to 2008. The analysis uses three interest rates and 6-year rolling windows to identify the extent of macroeconomic convergence that prevails within the EAC, and consequently whether the formation of a monetary union is possible. The results suggest that the magnitude of the convergence amongst the countries remain low and there are significant rigidities in the deposit and lending rates over time, however the passthrough has improved with respect to the lending rate but not the deposit rate. The overall conclusion of the study suggests that an EAC wide monetary union is currently not possible based on the evidence provided from the pass-through analysis.
- Full Text:
Ericoid mycorrhizal fungi and potential for inoculation of commercial berry species (Vaccinium corymbosium L.)
- Authors: Bizabani, Christine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Ericaceae , Mycorrhizas , Fynbos
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016127
- Description: Ericaceous plants are the richest growth form of the fynbos vegetation of South Africa. The fynbos is characterized by highly leached acidic soils, low mineral nutrients and climatically it is a winter rainfall and dry summer region. Ericoid mycorrhizal fungi associate with Erica species enhancing their ability to access essential nutrients for survival under unfavourable growth conditions. The aim of this study was to select local Ericaceae plant species and to isolate, identify and characterize the ericoid endophytes and assess these isolates as potential inocula for commercial berry species. Two ericaceous plants Erica cerinthoides L. and Erica demmissa Klotzsch ex Benth. were identified from the Mountain Drive area of Grahamstown, Eastern Cape. Root staining was used to confirm the mycorrhizal status of both plants. Hyphal coils typical of ericoid association were observed within the epidermal cells of the hair roots under a light microscope. The endophytes were successfully isolated in pure culture on 2% malt extract agar (MEA) and modified Fontana medium. Cultural morphology and microscopy were used for initial identification. Two slow growing isolates were selected. These isolates were further subjected to molecular identification; extracted DNA was amplified using ITS1 and ITS4 fungal primers. The rDNA gene internal transcriber spacer (ITS) was then sequenced and analyzed by comparison to sequences in the GenBank. On the basis of percentage sequence identity Lachnum Retz. species and Cadophora Lagerb. & Melin species were identified as the ericoid endophytes of E. cerinthoides and E. demmissa respectively. The optimum growth parameters of the fungal isolates were determined in 2% MEA incubated at varying temperatures and pH. It was established that both species had optimum growth at 27⁰C and pH 5. The Ericaceae species are sometimes found in metal contaminated sites were ericoid fungi have been proved to alleviate toxicity of their host. The fungal isolates were grown in increasing concentration of Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺ in 2% MEA. The growth of Lachnum species decreased with increasing Zn²⁺ ions above 2.7 mM while Cadophora species showed a change in morphology and also decreased in growth with increased ion concentration. However there were no significant differences recorded in the growth of Cadophora and Lachnum species on increasing Cu²⁺ concentration. Lachnum and Cadophora isolates were formulated into a semi solid inoculum and inoculated onto micropropagated Vaccinni corymbosum L. plantlets of 5 different varieties. Colonization was low for all varieties, Elliott and Brightwell varieties recorded the highest colonization of 35% and 31% respectively. Lachnum species infected roots showed potential ericoid structures while the Cadophora inoculated plantlets had hyphal coils within the cortical cells typical of ericoid mycorrhizas. Inoculation significantly enhanced the shoot growth of Brightwell and Elliott varieties. The Chandler variety inoculated with Lachnum species showed improved shoot dry weight. The Bluecrop and Elliott varieties inoculated with Cadophora and Lachnum accumulated more root biomass. All inoculated Bluecrop plantlets had an improved canopy growth index. Brightwell plantlets inoculated with Lachnum species also had an enhanced canopy growth index. The growth responses were variable within varieties and between varieties. Treatments with the Cadophora and Lachnum have shown potential in the promotion of growth of the Blueberry species. The findings indicate the need to conduct trials under conditions which simulate the commercial growth conditions so as explore the optimum potential of the isolates.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bizabani, Christine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Ericaceae , Mycorrhizas , Fynbos
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016127
- Description: Ericaceous plants are the richest growth form of the fynbos vegetation of South Africa. The fynbos is characterized by highly leached acidic soils, low mineral nutrients and climatically it is a winter rainfall and dry summer region. Ericoid mycorrhizal fungi associate with Erica species enhancing their ability to access essential nutrients for survival under unfavourable growth conditions. The aim of this study was to select local Ericaceae plant species and to isolate, identify and characterize the ericoid endophytes and assess these isolates as potential inocula for commercial berry species. Two ericaceous plants Erica cerinthoides L. and Erica demmissa Klotzsch ex Benth. were identified from the Mountain Drive area of Grahamstown, Eastern Cape. Root staining was used to confirm the mycorrhizal status of both plants. Hyphal coils typical of ericoid association were observed within the epidermal cells of the hair roots under a light microscope. The endophytes were successfully isolated in pure culture on 2% malt extract agar (MEA) and modified Fontana medium. Cultural morphology and microscopy were used for initial identification. Two slow growing isolates were selected. These isolates were further subjected to molecular identification; extracted DNA was amplified using ITS1 and ITS4 fungal primers. The rDNA gene internal transcriber spacer (ITS) was then sequenced and analyzed by comparison to sequences in the GenBank. On the basis of percentage sequence identity Lachnum Retz. species and Cadophora Lagerb. & Melin species were identified as the ericoid endophytes of E. cerinthoides and E. demmissa respectively. The optimum growth parameters of the fungal isolates were determined in 2% MEA incubated at varying temperatures and pH. It was established that both species had optimum growth at 27⁰C and pH 5. The Ericaceae species are sometimes found in metal contaminated sites were ericoid fungi have been proved to alleviate toxicity of their host. The fungal isolates were grown in increasing concentration of Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺ in 2% MEA. The growth of Lachnum species decreased with increasing Zn²⁺ ions above 2.7 mM while Cadophora species showed a change in morphology and also decreased in growth with increased ion concentration. However there were no significant differences recorded in the growth of Cadophora and Lachnum species on increasing Cu²⁺ concentration. Lachnum and Cadophora isolates were formulated into a semi solid inoculum and inoculated onto micropropagated Vaccinni corymbosum L. plantlets of 5 different varieties. Colonization was low for all varieties, Elliott and Brightwell varieties recorded the highest colonization of 35% and 31% respectively. Lachnum species infected roots showed potential ericoid structures while the Cadophora inoculated plantlets had hyphal coils within the cortical cells typical of ericoid mycorrhizas. Inoculation significantly enhanced the shoot growth of Brightwell and Elliott varieties. The Chandler variety inoculated with Lachnum species showed improved shoot dry weight. The Bluecrop and Elliott varieties inoculated with Cadophora and Lachnum accumulated more root biomass. All inoculated Bluecrop plantlets had an improved canopy growth index. Brightwell plantlets inoculated with Lachnum species also had an enhanced canopy growth index. The growth responses were variable within varieties and between varieties. Treatments with the Cadophora and Lachnum have shown potential in the promotion of growth of the Blueberry species. The findings indicate the need to conduct trials under conditions which simulate the commercial growth conditions so as explore the optimum potential of the isolates.
- Full Text:
Economic impact studies and methodological bias : the case of the National Arts Festival in South Africa
- Authors: Bragge, Brent Reuben
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Standard Bank National Arts Festival Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects Performing arts festivals- Economic aspects -- South Africa Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Economic impact analysis Edinburgh International Festival -- Economic aspects Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (Oudtshoorn, South Africa) -- Economic aspects Volksbladfees (Bloemfontein, South Africa) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEcon
- Identifier: vital:968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002702
- Description: Over the course of the last three decades, it has become popular practice to evaluate tourism events like cultural festivals in financial terms, through the use of economic impact studies. This can be attributed at least in part to the notable growth in the number of festivals being held globally and, as such, a higher level of competition between festivals for the limited funding which is available. Economic impact studies, and the resultant findings, have thus become powerful tools for the lobbying of sponsorship, and it has become increasingly important that the impact calculations be as accurate as possible, so as to effectively allocate both government and private resources to projects which will be of the greatest benefit to the host region. The allocation of funding is especially vital in an area like the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which is faced with many financial difficulties. The allocation of public funds to an event like the National Arts Festival, which is hosted in a relatively wealthy part of the province, might be weighed against initiatives which directly benefit the poorer parts of the region. Although it is acknowledged that the benefits which are felt by the host community of a cultural event go beyond that of the financial, it is often on this basis that festivals are most easily compared. The primary goal of the thesis was to analyse the various forms of methodological bias which can exist in the economic impact analyses (EIA) associated with cultural events. Theoretical considerations were discussed, specifically regarding economic impact as a method of measuring value. Various forms of bias (including data collection, the calculation of visitor numbers, multipliers, defining the area of interest, inclusion of visitor spending, and accounting for benefits only, not costs) are put into a real-life context, through the investigation of economic impact studies conducted on three selected South African festivals (the Volksblad, the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstfees, and the National Arts Festival), and one international festival (the Edinburgh Festival). An in-depth comparison of two separate studies conducted at the National Arts Festival (NAF) in 2004 (by Antrobus and Snowball) and 2005 (by Saayman et al.) was made, focussing on the manner in which the economic impact was calculated. Having considered the common forms of bias, and assessing several possible reasons for the difference of approximately twenty million Rand in the advertised economic impacts, it was concluded that, most likely, the miscalculation of visitor numbers was the cause. This was confirmed when the Antrobus and Saayman methods were applied to the 2006 NAF data, and noting that the economic impact figures arrived at were strikingly similar. As such, it is advisable that extreme caution be taken when calculating visitor numbers, as they can significantly influence the outcome of an economic impact study. It is recommended that each study should also have transparent checks in place, regarding the key calculation figures, to ensure that less scrupulous researchers are not as easily able to succumb to the pressure event sponsors might impose to produce inflated impact values.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bragge, Brent Reuben
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Standard Bank National Arts Festival Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects Performing arts festivals- Economic aspects -- South Africa Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Economic impact analysis Edinburgh International Festival -- Economic aspects Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (Oudtshoorn, South Africa) -- Economic aspects Volksbladfees (Bloemfontein, South Africa) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEcon
- Identifier: vital:968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002702
- Description: Over the course of the last three decades, it has become popular practice to evaluate tourism events like cultural festivals in financial terms, through the use of economic impact studies. This can be attributed at least in part to the notable growth in the number of festivals being held globally and, as such, a higher level of competition between festivals for the limited funding which is available. Economic impact studies, and the resultant findings, have thus become powerful tools for the lobbying of sponsorship, and it has become increasingly important that the impact calculations be as accurate as possible, so as to effectively allocate both government and private resources to projects which will be of the greatest benefit to the host region. The allocation of funding is especially vital in an area like the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which is faced with many financial difficulties. The allocation of public funds to an event like the National Arts Festival, which is hosted in a relatively wealthy part of the province, might be weighed against initiatives which directly benefit the poorer parts of the region. Although it is acknowledged that the benefits which are felt by the host community of a cultural event go beyond that of the financial, it is often on this basis that festivals are most easily compared. The primary goal of the thesis was to analyse the various forms of methodological bias which can exist in the economic impact analyses (EIA) associated with cultural events. Theoretical considerations were discussed, specifically regarding economic impact as a method of measuring value. Various forms of bias (including data collection, the calculation of visitor numbers, multipliers, defining the area of interest, inclusion of visitor spending, and accounting for benefits only, not costs) are put into a real-life context, through the investigation of economic impact studies conducted on three selected South African festivals (the Volksblad, the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstfees, and the National Arts Festival), and one international festival (the Edinburgh Festival). An in-depth comparison of two separate studies conducted at the National Arts Festival (NAF) in 2004 (by Antrobus and Snowball) and 2005 (by Saayman et al.) was made, focussing on the manner in which the economic impact was calculated. Having considered the common forms of bias, and assessing several possible reasons for the difference of approximately twenty million Rand in the advertised economic impacts, it was concluded that, most likely, the miscalculation of visitor numbers was the cause. This was confirmed when the Antrobus and Saayman methods were applied to the 2006 NAF data, and noting that the economic impact figures arrived at were strikingly similar. As such, it is advisable that extreme caution be taken when calculating visitor numbers, as they can significantly influence the outcome of an economic impact study. It is recommended that each study should also have transparent checks in place, regarding the key calculation figures, to ensure that less scrupulous researchers are not as easily able to succumb to the pressure event sponsors might impose to produce inflated impact values.
- Full Text:
Studies in South African marine molluscan chemistry
- Authors: Bromley, Candice Leigh
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Mollusks -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- South Africa , Marine metabolites -- South Africa , Chemical oceanography -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4356 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005021
- Description: This thesis investigates the variability occurring in the secondary metabolites produced by three South African marine molluscs. Chapter Two discusses the isolation and spectroscopic structure elucidation of the metabolites isolated from two Siphonaria species. The re-investigation of Siphonaria capensis yielded siphonarienfuranone (2.2) as the only common polypropionate isolated from both the 1998 and 2009 collections of S. capensis from the same areas suggesting possible seasonal or genetic variation in polypropionate production. The sterol cholest-7-en-3,5,7- triol (2.33) was also isolated form the 2009 collection of S. capensis and this is the first time this compound has been isolated from a Siphonaria species. The second species, Siphonaria oculus is closely related to S. capensis and the investigation into the former’s secondary metaboliteproduction revealed 2.2 as a major metabolite suggesting an inter-species overlap in polypropionate production. Three new polypropionate metabolites, 2.35, 2.36 and 2.37 were also isolated from S. oculus. An unsuccessful attempt was made to establish the absolute configuration of 2.37 using the modified Mosher’s method and the limited amount of 2.37 available prevented any further attempts at resolving the absolute configuration of this compound. The 1H NMR analysis of the defensive mucus collected directly from S. oculus revealed the presence of the acyclic polypropionate 2.37 as a minor metabolite. The absence of characteristic signals for the furanone containing compounds 2.2, 2.35 and 2.36, might suggest that these compounds cyclise from a hypothetical acyclic precursor (2.38) during standard work up of bulk acetone extracts of Siphonaria species. Chapter Three discusses the re-isolation and spectroscopic structure elucidation of the metabolites isolated from the nudibranch, Leminda millecra. Three known natural products, millecrone A (3.1), 8-hydroxycalamenene (3.6) and cubebenone (3.8) were re-isolated from our 2010 collection of L. millecra, as well as the new minor metabolite 8-acetoxycalamenene (3.16). The cytotoxic prenylated toluquinones and toluhydroquinones (3.9-3.15) initially isolated from the 1998 collection of L. millecra were not found in the 2010 collection supporting the hypothesis that these compounds may be of fungal origin. L. millecra clearly shows variability in the compounds sequestered by this species with millecrone A (3.1) being the only common metabolite in the three investigations of L. millecra to date. An unsuccessful attempt was made to establish the absolute configuration of 3.1, 3.6 and 3.8 through initial LAH reduction of the ketone moiety contained in 3.1 and 3.8 and esterification of the resultant diastereomeric alcohol mixtures and the phenol functionality in 3.6 with (1S)-camphanic chloride. Crystallisation of the (S)- camphanate esters of 3.6 and 3.8 for X-ray analysis were unsuccessful, while the unexpected conjugate addition of a hydride in 3.1 resulted in complex diastereomeric mixtures which could not be separated by HPLC.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bromley, Candice Leigh
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Mollusks -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- South Africa , Marine metabolites -- South Africa , Chemical oceanography -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4356 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005021
- Description: This thesis investigates the variability occurring in the secondary metabolites produced by three South African marine molluscs. Chapter Two discusses the isolation and spectroscopic structure elucidation of the metabolites isolated from two Siphonaria species. The re-investigation of Siphonaria capensis yielded siphonarienfuranone (2.2) as the only common polypropionate isolated from both the 1998 and 2009 collections of S. capensis from the same areas suggesting possible seasonal or genetic variation in polypropionate production. The sterol cholest-7-en-3,5,7- triol (2.33) was also isolated form the 2009 collection of S. capensis and this is the first time this compound has been isolated from a Siphonaria species. The second species, Siphonaria oculus is closely related to S. capensis and the investigation into the former’s secondary metaboliteproduction revealed 2.2 as a major metabolite suggesting an inter-species overlap in polypropionate production. Three new polypropionate metabolites, 2.35, 2.36 and 2.37 were also isolated from S. oculus. An unsuccessful attempt was made to establish the absolute configuration of 2.37 using the modified Mosher’s method and the limited amount of 2.37 available prevented any further attempts at resolving the absolute configuration of this compound. The 1H NMR analysis of the defensive mucus collected directly from S. oculus revealed the presence of the acyclic polypropionate 2.37 as a minor metabolite. The absence of characteristic signals for the furanone containing compounds 2.2, 2.35 and 2.36, might suggest that these compounds cyclise from a hypothetical acyclic precursor (2.38) during standard work up of bulk acetone extracts of Siphonaria species. Chapter Three discusses the re-isolation and spectroscopic structure elucidation of the metabolites isolated from the nudibranch, Leminda millecra. Three known natural products, millecrone A (3.1), 8-hydroxycalamenene (3.6) and cubebenone (3.8) were re-isolated from our 2010 collection of L. millecra, as well as the new minor metabolite 8-acetoxycalamenene (3.16). The cytotoxic prenylated toluquinones and toluhydroquinones (3.9-3.15) initially isolated from the 1998 collection of L. millecra were not found in the 2010 collection supporting the hypothesis that these compounds may be of fungal origin. L. millecra clearly shows variability in the compounds sequestered by this species with millecrone A (3.1) being the only common metabolite in the three investigations of L. millecra to date. An unsuccessful attempt was made to establish the absolute configuration of 3.1, 3.6 and 3.8 through initial LAH reduction of the ketone moiety contained in 3.1 and 3.8 and esterification of the resultant diastereomeric alcohol mixtures and the phenol functionality in 3.6 with (1S)-camphanic chloride. Crystallisation of the (S)- camphanate esters of 3.6 and 3.8 for X-ray analysis were unsuccessful, while the unexpected conjugate addition of a hydride in 3.1 resulted in complex diastereomeric mixtures which could not be separated by HPLC.
- Full Text:
Intimate masculinities in the work of Paul Emmanuel
- Authors: Bronner, Irene Enslé
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emmanuel, Paul, 1969- Masculinity in art Identity (Psychology) in art Gender identity in art Art, South African -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002193
- Description: Paul Emmanuel is a South African artist who produces incised drawings, outdoor installations and prints (particularly intaglio etchings and manière noire lithographs). These focus on the representation of male bodies and experience. Having begun his career as a collaborative printmaker, since 2002, his work has become more ambitious as well as critically acclaimed. In 2010, his most recent body of work, Transitions, was exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum of African Art in Washington D.C. I propose that Emmanuel represents the male body as a presence that either is not easily seen or that actively disappears or erases itself. Its subjectivity, and the viewer’s engagement with it, may be characterised as one of intimacy, exposure, loss and vulnerability. Emmanuel’s work may be said to question conventions and ideals of masculinity while, at the same time, refusing any prescriptive interpretation. To develop this proposition, I examine specifically Emmanuel’s incising drawing technique that ‘holds open’ transitions in male lives. In these liminal moments, Emmanuel represents men as ‘seen’ to change state or status, thereby exposing the ongoing process of building masculine identities. Equally elucidatory is Emmanuel’s imprinting of his own body, which, in his use of “traces” that reveal the vacillation between presence and absence, makes contingently ‘visible’ this gendering process, and has particular implications for the expression of subjectivity in a contemporary South African context.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bronner, Irene Enslé
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emmanuel, Paul, 1969- Masculinity in art Identity (Psychology) in art Gender identity in art Art, South African -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002193
- Description: Paul Emmanuel is a South African artist who produces incised drawings, outdoor installations and prints (particularly intaglio etchings and manière noire lithographs). These focus on the representation of male bodies and experience. Having begun his career as a collaborative printmaker, since 2002, his work has become more ambitious as well as critically acclaimed. In 2010, his most recent body of work, Transitions, was exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum of African Art in Washington D.C. I propose that Emmanuel represents the male body as a presence that either is not easily seen or that actively disappears or erases itself. Its subjectivity, and the viewer’s engagement with it, may be characterised as one of intimacy, exposure, loss and vulnerability. Emmanuel’s work may be said to question conventions and ideals of masculinity while, at the same time, refusing any prescriptive interpretation. To develop this proposition, I examine specifically Emmanuel’s incising drawing technique that ‘holds open’ transitions in male lives. In these liminal moments, Emmanuel represents men as ‘seen’ to change state or status, thereby exposing the ongoing process of building masculine identities. Equally elucidatory is Emmanuel’s imprinting of his own body, which, in his use of “traces” that reveal the vacillation between presence and absence, makes contingently ‘visible’ this gendering process, and has particular implications for the expression of subjectivity in a contemporary South African context.
- Full Text:
A short composition portfolio
- Buitendag, Kingsley Alexander
- Authors: Buitendag, Kingsley Alexander
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002297
- Full Text:
- Authors: Buitendag, Kingsley Alexander
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002297
- Full Text: