Towards theorizing human resource development in South Africa: a critical analysis and the development of a tool to facilitate improved understanding and practice
- Authors: Anderson, Amber Cristal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16130 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/469 , Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Description: The primary objective of this study is to generate pathways to understanding Human Resources Development (HRD) by developing a tool which enables and enhances a shared and common understanding of HRD in South Africa (SA). To achieve this objective, this research explores the nature and importance of HRD and articulates and aggregates these thoughts and practices into a tool which facilitates an understanding of HRD with the overarching aim of improving HRD thoughts and practices in South Africa. While there is substantial international and local literature on HRD, the existing body of research on the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa is skeletal. National HRD concepts and practices are fragmented, and are as diverse as the number of stakeholders and partners that it serves. In addition, theory-building in HRD is disconnected and removed from practice. In order to address this problem, a qualitative, interpretive, theory-building social constructionist research strategy was embarked upon. The research strategy was executed in an iterative, cyclical manner, using theoretical sampling and content analysis rigorously executed within a coding paradigm informed by open, axial and selective coding techniques with local and international literature and informal reviews as the units of analysis. Qualitative and quantitative findings of the South African Qualifications Authority ground-breaking, world-first longitudinal study was analyzed and used to find relevance and corroborate the international literature available on HRD. Informal reviews were conducted with 7 human resources (HR) practitioners and 54 internationally-based HR colleagues of the researcher in order to ensure as appropriate a degree of integration between theory and practice as was possible. This process culminated in the most significant contribution of this research, which is a tool consisting of six pathways, that facilitates an understanding of the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa. The development of the tool enabled the articulation and aggregation of a thorough and coherent description, explanation and representation of HRD. The research highlights the need for HRD scholars and practitioners to channel their energies and effort on all the catalytic aspects of organizational life, namely uniqueness, social complexity, knowledge, and path dependency, by acquiring critical insight into the profound value of HRD which will allow the realization and sustainability of competitive advantage in a rich and dynamic global economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Anderson, Amber Cristal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16130 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/469 , Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Description: The primary objective of this study is to generate pathways to understanding Human Resources Development (HRD) by developing a tool which enables and enhances a shared and common understanding of HRD in South Africa (SA). To achieve this objective, this research explores the nature and importance of HRD and articulates and aggregates these thoughts and practices into a tool which facilitates an understanding of HRD with the overarching aim of improving HRD thoughts and practices in South Africa. While there is substantial international and local literature on HRD, the existing body of research on the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa is skeletal. National HRD concepts and practices are fragmented, and are as diverse as the number of stakeholders and partners that it serves. In addition, theory-building in HRD is disconnected and removed from practice. In order to address this problem, a qualitative, interpretive, theory-building social constructionist research strategy was embarked upon. The research strategy was executed in an iterative, cyclical manner, using theoretical sampling and content analysis rigorously executed within a coding paradigm informed by open, axial and selective coding techniques with local and international literature and informal reviews as the units of analysis. Qualitative and quantitative findings of the South African Qualifications Authority ground-breaking, world-first longitudinal study was analyzed and used to find relevance and corroborate the international literature available on HRD. Informal reviews were conducted with 7 human resources (HR) practitioners and 54 internationally-based HR colleagues of the researcher in order to ensure as appropriate a degree of integration between theory and practice as was possible. This process culminated in the most significant contribution of this research, which is a tool consisting of six pathways, that facilitates an understanding of the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa. The development of the tool enabled the articulation and aggregation of a thorough and coherent description, explanation and representation of HRD. The research highlights the need for HRD scholars and practitioners to channel their energies and effort on all the catalytic aspects of organizational life, namely uniqueness, social complexity, knowledge, and path dependency, by acquiring critical insight into the profound value of HRD which will allow the realization and sustainability of competitive advantage in a rich and dynamic global economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
White women writing white : a study of identity and representation in (post-)apartheid literatures of South Africa
- Authors: West, Mary Eileen
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/442 , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Description: This thesis examines aspects of identity and representation using contemporary theories and definitions emerging out of a growing body of work known as whiteness studies. The condition of whiteness as it continues to inform identity politics in post-apartheid South Africa is explored in an analysis of selected texts written by white women, to demonstrate the ways in which whiteness continues to suggest normativity. In reading a representative selection of literatures produced in contemporary South Africa by white women writers, this study aims to illustrate the ambivalence apparent in the interstitial manifestations of emergent reconciliatory gestures that are at odds with residual traces of superiority. A sampling of disparate texts is examined to explore the representations of race and belonging in post-apartheid South Africa in the light of contemporary theories of whiteness which posit it as a powerful and invisible identification. The analysis attempts to plot a continuum from writers who are least, through to those who are most, aware of whiteness as a cultural construct and of their own positionality in relation to the discursive dynamics that inform South African racial politics. A contextualising overview of the terrain of whiteness studies is provided in Chapter One, marking the ideological and theoretical affiliations of this project, and foregrounding the construction of whiteness as an imagined identity in contemporary cultural criticism. It also provides a justification for the selection of the textual material under scrutiny. Chapter Two explores a genre that has been identified as a growing trend in South African fiction: the production of pulp fiction written by white middle-class women. Two such texts are the focus of this chapter, namely, Pamela Jooste’s People like Ourselves (2004) and Susan Mann’s One Tongue Singing (2005), and the complicities and clichés that are characteristic of popular literature are examined. Antjie Krog’s A Change of Tongue (2003) is the focus of Chapter Three. It is examined as a book offering the writer’s personal response to the difficulties of transformation within the first decade of South African democracy. Krog confronts her own defensiveness, her sense of normalcy, and her sense of alienation in relation to multiple encounters with different people. Chapter Four focuses on the journalism of Marianne Thamm. Her role as columnist for the popular women’s magazine, Fairlady is explored, particularly in relation to the inclusion of a contending voice writing against the general tenets of Fairlady. Thamm’s critique of the mores governing bourgeois white womanhood is read in relation to her role as officially sanctioned Court Jester. Her Fairlady columns have been collected in Mental Floss (2002) but the analysis includes selected columns from 2003 to 2005. Echo Location: A Guide to Sea Point for Residents and Visitors (1998) by Karen Press is the focus of Chapter Five. Her work is read as examining a white South African crisis of belonging in relation to the implications of mapping the co-ordinates of whiteness in South Africa. Chapter Six offers a reading of four short stories, written by Nadine Gordimer and Marlene van Niekerk. These stories are juxtaposed to trace an anxious impasse in white responses to suburbia, the place of enactment of white bourgeois mores, which both writers interrogate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: West, Mary Eileen
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/442 , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Description: This thesis examines aspects of identity and representation using contemporary theories and definitions emerging out of a growing body of work known as whiteness studies. The condition of whiteness as it continues to inform identity politics in post-apartheid South Africa is explored in an analysis of selected texts written by white women, to demonstrate the ways in which whiteness continues to suggest normativity. In reading a representative selection of literatures produced in contemporary South Africa by white women writers, this study aims to illustrate the ambivalence apparent in the interstitial manifestations of emergent reconciliatory gestures that are at odds with residual traces of superiority. A sampling of disparate texts is examined to explore the representations of race and belonging in post-apartheid South Africa in the light of contemporary theories of whiteness which posit it as a powerful and invisible identification. The analysis attempts to plot a continuum from writers who are least, through to those who are most, aware of whiteness as a cultural construct and of their own positionality in relation to the discursive dynamics that inform South African racial politics. A contextualising overview of the terrain of whiteness studies is provided in Chapter One, marking the ideological and theoretical affiliations of this project, and foregrounding the construction of whiteness as an imagined identity in contemporary cultural criticism. It also provides a justification for the selection of the textual material under scrutiny. Chapter Two explores a genre that has been identified as a growing trend in South African fiction: the production of pulp fiction written by white middle-class women. Two such texts are the focus of this chapter, namely, Pamela Jooste’s People like Ourselves (2004) and Susan Mann’s One Tongue Singing (2005), and the complicities and clichés that are characteristic of popular literature are examined. Antjie Krog’s A Change of Tongue (2003) is the focus of Chapter Three. It is examined as a book offering the writer’s personal response to the difficulties of transformation within the first decade of South African democracy. Krog confronts her own defensiveness, her sense of normalcy, and her sense of alienation in relation to multiple encounters with different people. Chapter Four focuses on the journalism of Marianne Thamm. Her role as columnist for the popular women’s magazine, Fairlady is explored, particularly in relation to the inclusion of a contending voice writing against the general tenets of Fairlady. Thamm’s critique of the mores governing bourgeois white womanhood is read in relation to her role as officially sanctioned Court Jester. Her Fairlady columns have been collected in Mental Floss (2002) but the analysis includes selected columns from 2003 to 2005. Echo Location: A Guide to Sea Point for Residents and Visitors (1998) by Karen Press is the focus of Chapter Five. Her work is read as examining a white South African crisis of belonging in relation to the implications of mapping the co-ordinates of whiteness in South Africa. Chapter Six offers a reading of four short stories, written by Nadine Gordimer and Marlene van Niekerk. These stories are juxtaposed to trace an anxious impasse in white responses to suburbia, the place of enactment of white bourgeois mores, which both writers interrogate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Plastochron index - an indicator of plant structure and function a case study using Pisum sativum L
- Ade-Ademilua, Omobolanle Elizabeth
- Authors: Ade-Ademilua, Omobolanle Elizabeth
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Plant anatomy Plant physiology Peas -- Anatomy Peas -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003751
- Description: The use of chronological age for example, using days after sowing (DAS), or days after germination (DAG) as a time variable may result in the inherent variability between plants resulting in differences which can be large enough to obscure subtle developmental trends that become evident among plants sown at the same time. An alternative to DAS or DAG is the plastochron index (PI), first used by Erickson and Michelini (1957) as a morphological time scale and numerical index; which to according to the authors suggested and represented a more accurate reflection of the developmental status of a plant. The research presented in this thesis was therefore aimed specifically at utilizing the index in qualitative and quantitative analyses, to confirm its usefulness in analyzing and predicting plant growth and development. Specifically this research focused on investigating various morphological and physiological events that together, hopefully, would serve as a template for the prediction of the growth, development and reactions of Pisum sativum L. to different growth conditions. In Chapter 3, the use of the average length of the first pair of leaflets on each node as a suitable parameter for calculating PI in P. sativum is suggested. The results presented in Chapter 3 suggest that plant age is best expressed using the plastochron index, as this reflects the time interval between the initiations of successive pairs of leaflets. This section of the research has been published as “Ade-Ademilua OE, Botha CEJ (2005) A re-evaluation of plastochron index in peas - a case for using leaflet length. South African Journal of Botany 71: 76-80”. The PI formula developed was subsequently used in this research to conduct qualitative and quantitative investigations of plant growth and development in which all data and observations were related directly to the plastochron index. In Chapter 4, the sink to source transition in Pisum sativum L. leaves at different plastochron ages in nodulating plants was investigated using the phloem-mobile fluorescent marker, 5,6-carboxyfluorescein (5,6-CF). The results demonstrated that young leaves remained strong sinks up until LPI 0, after which sink-source transition occurred up to LPI 1.8 and leaflets transitioned to strong source systems by LPI 2.0. A well-developed cross-connected phloem system between paired leaflets in peas, and the petiole and the stem vascular supply was observed. The data presented in the second part of Chapter 4 suggest that the phloem transport between leaflet pairs is independent of the sink/source state of the leaflets, or of movement along the source to sink gradient. The data support the presence of a modular transport system which may ensure re-allocation and balancing between leaflets of the same physiological age and photosynthetic and transport status, thereby load-balancing the local transport system, before exporting to other younger (sink) regions. The investigation of leaf development using the plastochron index (Chapter 5) revealed that the formation of air spaces in the palisade and spongy mesophyll, one of the preparatory events for transition from sink to source state in developing leaves, occurs between LPI 0 and LPI 1 in pea leaflets. Results of the anatomical and ultrastructural study related to PI are presented in Chapter 5. The density of wall ingrowths in transfer cells of minor veins increased with LPI and appeared to be associated with the probable transition to source state and the related potential increase in the production of assimilates for export. The onset of wall ingrowth development in leaflets at LPI 0 provided evidence that sink-to-source transition commences at LPI 0 in P. sativum. Presumably-functional plasmodesmata as well as a few mature sieve elements were evident in class IV veins in the apical region of young and older leaflets at LPI 0. The number of mature sieve elements per vein however, increased with increasing LPI. Most class V veins were still undergoing division at LPI 0 and their sieve elements did not show signs of maturity until LPI 1. The increase in the number of mature metaphloem sieve elements in young, supposedly importing tissue at LPI 0 to older, supposedly exporting tissues at LPI 2 is evidence of the association between phloem maturation and transition from importing to exporting status. In Chapter 6, I report on the effects of elevated CO[subscript 2] on the growth and leaf development of nodulating and non-nodulating Pisum sativum L var. Greenfeast grown under controlled environment of the same nitrogen (6mM) and nitrogen- free nutrient solution conditions. Shortterm exposure to elevated CO[subscript 2] induced rapid plant growth, irrespective of treatment. However, long-term elevated CO[subscript 2] treatment did not affect rate of leaf appearance (RLA) in nodulated plants, irrespective of mineral N supply but enhanced RLA in non- nodulating plants supplied with mineral N. Supplied N resulted in a significant increase in leaflet elongation rate (LfER) under both ambient and elevated CO[subscript 2], but LfER was not significantly affected by nodulation but was increased by high CO[subscript 2]. This suggested that the growth of nodulating P. sativum L may not be significantly affected under CO[subscript 2] levels as high as 1000 μmol mol[superscript -1]. The data suggest that elevated CO[subscript 2] will enhance canopy size, provided adequate soil N is available and more so in non-nodulating plants. This section of the research has been published as “Ade-Ademilua OE, Botha CEJ (2004) The effects of elevated CO[subscript 2] and nitrogen availability supersedes the need for nodulation in peas grown under controlled environmental conditions. South African Journal of Botany 70: 816 – 823”. This thesis demonstrates that the similarity in the qualitative analyses results obtained from plants from different CO[subscript 2], nitrogen and nodulation treatment conditions, highlights the fact that plants of same PI value are at the same developmental state, irrespective of the growth condition. Furthermore, changes in plant structure and function observed under different growth conditions can be related simply to changes in plastochron index. The work presented in this thesis demonstrate that changes in plant structure and function analyzed are related to changes in PI. An important finding of this thesis is that with the use of PI, results can be compiled as a template for predicting the structure- function state of pea plants at any plastochron age, under any growth conditions, before using small representative sample populations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ade-Ademilua, Omobolanle Elizabeth
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Plant anatomy Plant physiology Peas -- Anatomy Peas -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003751
- Description: The use of chronological age for example, using days after sowing (DAS), or days after germination (DAG) as a time variable may result in the inherent variability between plants resulting in differences which can be large enough to obscure subtle developmental trends that become evident among plants sown at the same time. An alternative to DAS or DAG is the plastochron index (PI), first used by Erickson and Michelini (1957) as a morphological time scale and numerical index; which to according to the authors suggested and represented a more accurate reflection of the developmental status of a plant. The research presented in this thesis was therefore aimed specifically at utilizing the index in qualitative and quantitative analyses, to confirm its usefulness in analyzing and predicting plant growth and development. Specifically this research focused on investigating various morphological and physiological events that together, hopefully, would serve as a template for the prediction of the growth, development and reactions of Pisum sativum L. to different growth conditions. In Chapter 3, the use of the average length of the first pair of leaflets on each node as a suitable parameter for calculating PI in P. sativum is suggested. The results presented in Chapter 3 suggest that plant age is best expressed using the plastochron index, as this reflects the time interval between the initiations of successive pairs of leaflets. This section of the research has been published as “Ade-Ademilua OE, Botha CEJ (2005) A re-evaluation of plastochron index in peas - a case for using leaflet length. South African Journal of Botany 71: 76-80”. The PI formula developed was subsequently used in this research to conduct qualitative and quantitative investigations of plant growth and development in which all data and observations were related directly to the plastochron index. In Chapter 4, the sink to source transition in Pisum sativum L. leaves at different plastochron ages in nodulating plants was investigated using the phloem-mobile fluorescent marker, 5,6-carboxyfluorescein (5,6-CF). The results demonstrated that young leaves remained strong sinks up until LPI 0, after which sink-source transition occurred up to LPI 1.8 and leaflets transitioned to strong source systems by LPI 2.0. A well-developed cross-connected phloem system between paired leaflets in peas, and the petiole and the stem vascular supply was observed. The data presented in the second part of Chapter 4 suggest that the phloem transport between leaflet pairs is independent of the sink/source state of the leaflets, or of movement along the source to sink gradient. The data support the presence of a modular transport system which may ensure re-allocation and balancing between leaflets of the same physiological age and photosynthetic and transport status, thereby load-balancing the local transport system, before exporting to other younger (sink) regions. The investigation of leaf development using the plastochron index (Chapter 5) revealed that the formation of air spaces in the palisade and spongy mesophyll, one of the preparatory events for transition from sink to source state in developing leaves, occurs between LPI 0 and LPI 1 in pea leaflets. Results of the anatomical and ultrastructural study related to PI are presented in Chapter 5. The density of wall ingrowths in transfer cells of minor veins increased with LPI and appeared to be associated with the probable transition to source state and the related potential increase in the production of assimilates for export. The onset of wall ingrowth development in leaflets at LPI 0 provided evidence that sink-to-source transition commences at LPI 0 in P. sativum. Presumably-functional plasmodesmata as well as a few mature sieve elements were evident in class IV veins in the apical region of young and older leaflets at LPI 0. The number of mature sieve elements per vein however, increased with increasing LPI. Most class V veins were still undergoing division at LPI 0 and their sieve elements did not show signs of maturity until LPI 1. The increase in the number of mature metaphloem sieve elements in young, supposedly importing tissue at LPI 0 to older, supposedly exporting tissues at LPI 2 is evidence of the association between phloem maturation and transition from importing to exporting status. In Chapter 6, I report on the effects of elevated CO[subscript 2] on the growth and leaf development of nodulating and non-nodulating Pisum sativum L var. Greenfeast grown under controlled environment of the same nitrogen (6mM) and nitrogen- free nutrient solution conditions. Shortterm exposure to elevated CO[subscript 2] induced rapid plant growth, irrespective of treatment. However, long-term elevated CO[subscript 2] treatment did not affect rate of leaf appearance (RLA) in nodulated plants, irrespective of mineral N supply but enhanced RLA in non- nodulating plants supplied with mineral N. Supplied N resulted in a significant increase in leaflet elongation rate (LfER) under both ambient and elevated CO[subscript 2], but LfER was not significantly affected by nodulation but was increased by high CO[subscript 2]. This suggested that the growth of nodulating P. sativum L may not be significantly affected under CO[subscript 2] levels as high as 1000 μmol mol[superscript -1]. The data suggest that elevated CO[subscript 2] will enhance canopy size, provided adequate soil N is available and more so in non-nodulating plants. This section of the research has been published as “Ade-Ademilua OE, Botha CEJ (2004) The effects of elevated CO[subscript 2] and nitrogen availability supersedes the need for nodulation in peas grown under controlled environmental conditions. South African Journal of Botany 70: 816 – 823”. This thesis demonstrates that the similarity in the qualitative analyses results obtained from plants from different CO[subscript 2], nitrogen and nodulation treatment conditions, highlights the fact that plants of same PI value are at the same developmental state, irrespective of the growth condition. Furthermore, changes in plant structure and function observed under different growth conditions can be related simply to changes in plastochron index. The work presented in this thesis demonstrate that changes in plant structure and function analyzed are related to changes in PI. An important finding of this thesis is that with the use of PI, results can be compiled as a template for predicting the structure- function state of pea plants at any plastochron age, under any growth conditions, before using small representative sample populations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The investigation, development and characterisation of novel zirconium-based tanning agents
- Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Authors: Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zirconium Tanning Leather
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004977
- Description: Various oxygen- and nitrogen-donor ligands were investigated as potential zirconium masking agents in zirconium tanning. α-Hydroxycarboxylic acid ligands were identified as effective zirconium(IV) chelators in acidic aqueous solution. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, 4-hydroxymandelic acid, 4-chloromandelic acid and 4-bromomandelic acid complexes were synthesised, isolated and characterised using a range of analytical techniques. Linear Free Energy Relationships were examined to optimise the stability of the zirconium complexes. Hammett [sigma] plots and Yukawa-Tsuno modified σ plots of the mandelate ligand and zirconium complex series indicated that inductive effects dominate within the benzene ring, however, mesomeric effects are significant outside the ring. Zirconium 4-hydroxymandelate complex solutions were identified as the most effective tanning agents and achieved shrinkage temperatures of 80 and 97ºC for hide powder and goatskin, respectively. The zirconium and 4-hydroxymandelic acid interact synergistically to yield leather equivalent to combination tanned leather in one step. Tanning was performed similarly to vegetable tanning processes with a pickle pH of approximately 5 and fixation was achieved upon acidification. Pilot-scale tanning of goatskin produced white tanned leathers and crust leathers which were physically and aesthetically comparable to matched chromium tanned material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zirconium Tanning Leather
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004977
- Description: Various oxygen- and nitrogen-donor ligands were investigated as potential zirconium masking agents in zirconium tanning. α-Hydroxycarboxylic acid ligands were identified as effective zirconium(IV) chelators in acidic aqueous solution. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, 4-hydroxymandelic acid, 4-chloromandelic acid and 4-bromomandelic acid complexes were synthesised, isolated and characterised using a range of analytical techniques. Linear Free Energy Relationships were examined to optimise the stability of the zirconium complexes. Hammett [sigma] plots and Yukawa-Tsuno modified σ plots of the mandelate ligand and zirconium complex series indicated that inductive effects dominate within the benzene ring, however, mesomeric effects are significant outside the ring. Zirconium 4-hydroxymandelate complex solutions were identified as the most effective tanning agents and achieved shrinkage temperatures of 80 and 97ºC for hide powder and goatskin, respectively. The zirconium and 4-hydroxymandelic acid interact synergistically to yield leather equivalent to combination tanned leather in one step. Tanning was performed similarly to vegetable tanning processes with a pickle pH of approximately 5 and fixation was achieved upon acidification. Pilot-scale tanning of goatskin produced white tanned leathers and crust leathers which were physically and aesthetically comparable to matched chromium tanned material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An analysis of how the Senior Certificate examination constructs the language needs of English second language learners
- Authors: Blunt, Sandra Viki
- Date: 2006 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Habermas, Jürgen Education, Secondary -- South Africa Examinations -- South Africa -- Evaluation English language -- Examinations -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Foreign speakers Language and education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1902 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006243
- Description: The Senior Certificate (SC) examination, a focus of the research described in this thesis, has an important function in terms of the quality of the education system overall and also in terms of the contribution of education to the achievement of national goals. The SC examination functions i) as a measure of achievement at school ii) as an indicator of work readiness and iii) as an indicator of the potential to succeed in higher education. This thesis offers a critique of the SC examination in respect of its functions. The way in which learners' language related needs are constructed is crucial in discussing the SC examination's legitimacy since perceptions about the needs of learners are reflected in what is taught and assessed. Since the majority of candidates writing the SC exarnination do so using a language which is not their mother tongue, the research described in the thesis attempted to identify the way in which the English second language (ESL) SC examination papers construct learners' needs. Examination papers represent a particular domain of social practice and are constructed through discourse. In the context of the research described in this thesis, discourses are understood as sets of ideas which are shared by communities of people and which give rise to practices which then define and sustain those communities and, thus, the discourses themselves. Discourse is language insofar as it converges with power and positions people in the interests of power. The ideological nature of discourse necessitates a critical orientation to research which interrogates, challenges and critiques the status quo. To identify the discourses constructing ESL learners' needs I conducted a critical discourse analysis on a representative sarnple of ESL SC exarnination papers and also interviewed six ESL examiners to corroborate the findings of the analysis. This then allowed me to identify several dominant discourses constructing ESL learners' needs: meaning-related, literature-related and process-related. The first meaning-related discourse, 'Received Tradition' discourse, focuses on the rules of grammar and spelling. Rather than approaching language as a resource to enable learners to understand the ideas to which they are exposed, learners are being taught discrete 'skills' to equip them for higher education study and the workplace. It is argued that school-based language literacy practices are not generalizable to the workplace and to higher education. Another aspect of 'Received Tradition' discourse holds that the study of English literature is a medium for understanding life and that there is moral value in teaching English literature. Learners are therefore constructed as lacking these values and their needs as having to acquire them. 'Received Tradition' discourse also overlaps with a second meaning-related discourse, 'Autonomous Text' discourse, which holds that the text's meaning is explicit and that if the learners can manipulate the rules of English grammar, 'have' vocabulary and can spell, they can retrieve meanings from texts they encounter in a wide range of contexts and construct texts for themselves. It is argued that a lack of awareness that meaning is constructed through recourse to other contexts, texts and the learner's experience is disadvantaging ESL candidates. 'Language as an Instrument of Communication' discourse, the last meaning-related discourse identified, sees language as the vehicle used to convey ideas, thoughts, information and beliefs, which are viewed as having been constructed independently of language. It is assumed that the answers, which, according to 'Autonomous Text' discourse, are in the text, can be conveyed if the tools of language are used correctly. The first literature-related discourse identified is 'Literature Study Develops Language Proficiency'. It is argued this is a misperception since language is learned as part of situated practice and instruction must thus be embedded in meaningful communicative contexts involving situated practice. The second literature-related discourse identified, 'Literature Study is a Medium for Understanding Life', is connected to the 'Received Tradition' discourse referred to above which holds that there is moral value in teaching English literature. This research identifies the ideological implications of these discourses, arguing that values are culture-specific and learners from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds experience life differently from the way it is depicted in English literature. Process-related discourses, which are part of the processes of teaching and assessment, concern the inadequacy of the ESL learner and of the markers and therefore dictate what can and cannot be expected of ESL learners in the SC examination. The research showed how all of the above discourses work through the SC curriculum to impose the values and beliefs of particular dominant groups on the ESL learner. Because of the robust and invidious nature of discourses this is a cause for concern. Although it is difficult to set a school leaving examination which serves both workplace and academic functions, there is a need to move beyond traditional, hegemonic approaches to understanding language learning. This thesis offers an analysis which can be used to inform practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Blunt, Sandra Viki
- Date: 2006 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Habermas, Jürgen Education, Secondary -- South Africa Examinations -- South Africa -- Evaluation English language -- Examinations -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Foreign speakers Language and education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1902 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006243
- Description: The Senior Certificate (SC) examination, a focus of the research described in this thesis, has an important function in terms of the quality of the education system overall and also in terms of the contribution of education to the achievement of national goals. The SC examination functions i) as a measure of achievement at school ii) as an indicator of work readiness and iii) as an indicator of the potential to succeed in higher education. This thesis offers a critique of the SC examination in respect of its functions. The way in which learners' language related needs are constructed is crucial in discussing the SC examination's legitimacy since perceptions about the needs of learners are reflected in what is taught and assessed. Since the majority of candidates writing the SC exarnination do so using a language which is not their mother tongue, the research described in the thesis attempted to identify the way in which the English second language (ESL) SC examination papers construct learners' needs. Examination papers represent a particular domain of social practice and are constructed through discourse. In the context of the research described in this thesis, discourses are understood as sets of ideas which are shared by communities of people and which give rise to practices which then define and sustain those communities and, thus, the discourses themselves. Discourse is language insofar as it converges with power and positions people in the interests of power. The ideological nature of discourse necessitates a critical orientation to research which interrogates, challenges and critiques the status quo. To identify the discourses constructing ESL learners' needs I conducted a critical discourse analysis on a representative sarnple of ESL SC exarnination papers and also interviewed six ESL examiners to corroborate the findings of the analysis. This then allowed me to identify several dominant discourses constructing ESL learners' needs: meaning-related, literature-related and process-related. The first meaning-related discourse, 'Received Tradition' discourse, focuses on the rules of grammar and spelling. Rather than approaching language as a resource to enable learners to understand the ideas to which they are exposed, learners are being taught discrete 'skills' to equip them for higher education study and the workplace. It is argued that school-based language literacy practices are not generalizable to the workplace and to higher education. Another aspect of 'Received Tradition' discourse holds that the study of English literature is a medium for understanding life and that there is moral value in teaching English literature. Learners are therefore constructed as lacking these values and their needs as having to acquire them. 'Received Tradition' discourse also overlaps with a second meaning-related discourse, 'Autonomous Text' discourse, which holds that the text's meaning is explicit and that if the learners can manipulate the rules of English grammar, 'have' vocabulary and can spell, they can retrieve meanings from texts they encounter in a wide range of contexts and construct texts for themselves. It is argued that a lack of awareness that meaning is constructed through recourse to other contexts, texts and the learner's experience is disadvantaging ESL candidates. 'Language as an Instrument of Communication' discourse, the last meaning-related discourse identified, sees language as the vehicle used to convey ideas, thoughts, information and beliefs, which are viewed as having been constructed independently of language. It is assumed that the answers, which, according to 'Autonomous Text' discourse, are in the text, can be conveyed if the tools of language are used correctly. The first literature-related discourse identified is 'Literature Study Develops Language Proficiency'. It is argued this is a misperception since language is learned as part of situated practice and instruction must thus be embedded in meaningful communicative contexts involving situated practice. The second literature-related discourse identified, 'Literature Study is a Medium for Understanding Life', is connected to the 'Received Tradition' discourse referred to above which holds that there is moral value in teaching English literature. This research identifies the ideological implications of these discourses, arguing that values are culture-specific and learners from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds experience life differently from the way it is depicted in English literature. Process-related discourses, which are part of the processes of teaching and assessment, concern the inadequacy of the ESL learner and of the markers and therefore dictate what can and cannot be expected of ESL learners in the SC examination. The research showed how all of the above discourses work through the SC curriculum to impose the values and beliefs of particular dominant groups on the ESL learner. Because of the robust and invidious nature of discourses this is a cause for concern. Although it is difficult to set a school leaving examination which serves both workplace and academic functions, there is a need to move beyond traditional, hegemonic approaches to understanding language learning. This thesis offers an analysis which can be used to inform practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Assessment of the effect of Goukamma Marine Protected Area on community structure and fishery dynamics
- Authors: Götz, Albrecht
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Goukamma Marine Protected Area Reef fishes -- South Africa Marine fishes -- South Africa Fishery management -- South Africa Marine resources conservation -- South Africa Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa Chrysoblephus laticeps Merluccius Argyrosomus
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005073
- Description: This study presents a detailed investigation into size, density and community structure of temperate marine reef fish in the medium-sized Goukamma Marine Protected Area (Goukamma MPA) and adjacent fishing grounds on the south coast of South Africa. The oceanographic conditions, the spatial distribution of the benthic community and the prevailing fishing effort are also described. Life history traits and per-recruit (PR) models for the principle target species, roman (Crysoblephus laticeps) are compared between the protected and exploited area. From the study results, various strategies are proposed for the use of MPAs in the conservation and management of linefish species along South Africa’s south coast. The distribution and topography of reefs in the protected and exploited sections of the study area were found to be comparable. Atmospheric pressure ranged from 992 to 1,032 mb, being significantly lower in summer. Wind speeds ranged from 0.7 to 71.3 km/h. Water temperatures ranged between 9.0 and 22.2 ºC and turbidity between 0.3 and 45.8 NTU. Water temperature and clarity were uniformly low in winter. In summer the water was generally warm, clear and stratified, with a thermocline at around 20 m, although intermittent upwelling events caused water temperature to decrease and clarity to deteriorate. Current speeds ranged between 0.11 and 2.59 km/h and were significantly higher in spring and autumn. Easterly currents prevailed in spring, summer and autumn and westerly and southerly currents in winter. Hake (Merluccius capensis), various resident reef fish and kob (Argyrosomus japonicus) were most frequently targeted by the local linefishery. A significant amount of illegal fishing was found to occur in the protected area. Fishing effort was found to be highest around the border of the MPA (2.7 boats/km²) and lowest in the core of the MPA (0.2 boats/km²). If law enforcement remains poor it may be necessary to adapt the management strategy to extend the reserve, thereby mitigating against illegal fishing and ensuring a core area of no exploitation. Various other alternatives were investigated and it was demonstrated that the amount of fish caught of legal size could be increased by about 23% and post-release mortality of undersized fish reduced by 50% through the introduction of a suit of restrictive measures. Randomly stratified underwater visual census (UVC) and controlled fishing were used to investigate the ichthyofauna and benthic community at protected and exploited sites in the study area. Resulting density and size data from 273 fishing sites and 177 point counts were analyzed using generalized linear models (GLMs). Fish communities were found to vary significantly, depending on the level of exploitation. Roman, the principle reef fish species targeted by the fishery had significantly higher densities within the protected parts of the study area (CPUE: 4.3 fish/anglerhour; UVC: 2.2 fish/point-count) as compared to the exploited part (CPUE: 3.4 fish/anglerhour; UVC: 1.8 fish/point-count), correlating strongly with the observed fishing effort. Also mean sizes were significantly higher in the protected area (299 mm from fishing survey and 233 mm from diving estimates) as compared to the exploited section (283 mm from fishing survey and 198 mm from diving estimates). Although other fish species also had significantly higher mean sizes at protected sites in most cases their densities were significantly lower. This suggests a top-down control of the fish community by the dominant predator (roman). The results of the UVC showed the diversity of the ichthyofauna to be significantly higher inside the protected area. Interestingly this did not apply to the results of the controlled fishing experiment where the diversity of fish in the catch was lower in the protected area - a result that may be explained by the selectivity of fishing for the most aggressive species – and a reminder of the limitations of controlled fishing experiments. Possibly the most important finding of the study revolved around the benthic community. These were significantly different at exploited and protected sites, with algae and crinoids more abundant at exploited sites. Crinoids are the principle food of roman and were low in abundance where roman abundances were high, suggesting that the dominant top predator reduced crinoids. Furthermore, it substantiates the correlation of roman abundance with fishing effort, since habitat preferences can be ruled out by the observed causal predator-prey distribution pattern. Low algae abundances at protected sites correlated with high strepie (Sarpa salpa) frequencies within the fish communities encountered there. Strepie, a shoaling and abundant benthic grazer, does not compete for food with roman, suggesting a high potential for coexistence of the two species. As expected, and found by other studies, life history traits of roman differed between protected and exploited sample-sites. With a significantly lower age-at-maturity and age-atsex- change, the exploited population showed a typical response to fishing effort. The sex ratio of this protogynous hermaphrodite was found to be sustained at healthy levels by phenotypic plasticity. However, one important additional factor was highlighted by the study; the average condition factor of the protected population was significantly lower (0.0283 g/cm³) compared to the exploited population (0.0295 g/cm³). This was probably due to the higher intra-specific competition for lower food abundance in the protected area. Interestingly the diving and fishing survey methods yielded similar mortality results for roman. Total mortality rate estimates derived from length frequency analysis from the diving and fishing survey were not different (0.32 and 0.29 y⁻¹, respectively) as were natural mortality rate estimates (0.24 and 0.19 y⁻¹, respectively). Natural mortality rate (M) estimates indicated by Pauly’s and Hoenig’s relationship were similar (0.25 and 0.23 y⁻¹, respectively). Detailed yield-per-recruit (Y/R) and spawner biomass-per-recruit (SB/R) analyses were presented for different levels of M, varying age-at-recruitment (tR) and fishing mortality (F). Current tR (7.60 y) and F (0.16 and 0.25 y⁻¹, from the diving and fishing dataset, respectively) suggests an optimal exploitation of the population in the exploited part of the study area. However, a separate SB/R analysis of the male part of the population showed their vulnerability to over-exploitation, even at reduced age-at-sex-change from fishing. There therefore remains a high risk of recruitment failure for the roman population. Of course MPAs can be used to measure stock status directly if the influence of factors such as cachability, habitat and sampling method on CPUE assessments can be limited or reduced. The experimental design in this study allowed for contemporary CPUE comparisons across the border of the Goukamma MPA. Results were similar to those obtained by the SB/R analyses. CPUE extrapolations therefore, using small MPAs, can provide reliable and consistent estimates, and offer a practical alternative to conventional assessment strategies. This study has highlighted the importance of ensuring a well structured and comprehensive survey design when undertaking a comparison of protected and exploited marine areas. The results provide a comprehensive framework for future management of the Goukamma MPA and other protected areas along the temperate coastline of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Götz, Albrecht
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Goukamma Marine Protected Area Reef fishes -- South Africa Marine fishes -- South Africa Fishery management -- South Africa Marine resources conservation -- South Africa Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa Chrysoblephus laticeps Merluccius Argyrosomus
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005073
- Description: This study presents a detailed investigation into size, density and community structure of temperate marine reef fish in the medium-sized Goukamma Marine Protected Area (Goukamma MPA) and adjacent fishing grounds on the south coast of South Africa. The oceanographic conditions, the spatial distribution of the benthic community and the prevailing fishing effort are also described. Life history traits and per-recruit (PR) models for the principle target species, roman (Crysoblephus laticeps) are compared between the protected and exploited area. From the study results, various strategies are proposed for the use of MPAs in the conservation and management of linefish species along South Africa’s south coast. The distribution and topography of reefs in the protected and exploited sections of the study area were found to be comparable. Atmospheric pressure ranged from 992 to 1,032 mb, being significantly lower in summer. Wind speeds ranged from 0.7 to 71.3 km/h. Water temperatures ranged between 9.0 and 22.2 ºC and turbidity between 0.3 and 45.8 NTU. Water temperature and clarity were uniformly low in winter. In summer the water was generally warm, clear and stratified, with a thermocline at around 20 m, although intermittent upwelling events caused water temperature to decrease and clarity to deteriorate. Current speeds ranged between 0.11 and 2.59 km/h and were significantly higher in spring and autumn. Easterly currents prevailed in spring, summer and autumn and westerly and southerly currents in winter. Hake (Merluccius capensis), various resident reef fish and kob (Argyrosomus japonicus) were most frequently targeted by the local linefishery. A significant amount of illegal fishing was found to occur in the protected area. Fishing effort was found to be highest around the border of the MPA (2.7 boats/km²) and lowest in the core of the MPA (0.2 boats/km²). If law enforcement remains poor it may be necessary to adapt the management strategy to extend the reserve, thereby mitigating against illegal fishing and ensuring a core area of no exploitation. Various other alternatives were investigated and it was demonstrated that the amount of fish caught of legal size could be increased by about 23% and post-release mortality of undersized fish reduced by 50% through the introduction of a suit of restrictive measures. Randomly stratified underwater visual census (UVC) and controlled fishing were used to investigate the ichthyofauna and benthic community at protected and exploited sites in the study area. Resulting density and size data from 273 fishing sites and 177 point counts were analyzed using generalized linear models (GLMs). Fish communities were found to vary significantly, depending on the level of exploitation. Roman, the principle reef fish species targeted by the fishery had significantly higher densities within the protected parts of the study area (CPUE: 4.3 fish/anglerhour; UVC: 2.2 fish/point-count) as compared to the exploited part (CPUE: 3.4 fish/anglerhour; UVC: 1.8 fish/point-count), correlating strongly with the observed fishing effort. Also mean sizes were significantly higher in the protected area (299 mm from fishing survey and 233 mm from diving estimates) as compared to the exploited section (283 mm from fishing survey and 198 mm from diving estimates). Although other fish species also had significantly higher mean sizes at protected sites in most cases their densities were significantly lower. This suggests a top-down control of the fish community by the dominant predator (roman). The results of the UVC showed the diversity of the ichthyofauna to be significantly higher inside the protected area. Interestingly this did not apply to the results of the controlled fishing experiment where the diversity of fish in the catch was lower in the protected area - a result that may be explained by the selectivity of fishing for the most aggressive species – and a reminder of the limitations of controlled fishing experiments. Possibly the most important finding of the study revolved around the benthic community. These were significantly different at exploited and protected sites, with algae and crinoids more abundant at exploited sites. Crinoids are the principle food of roman and were low in abundance where roman abundances were high, suggesting that the dominant top predator reduced crinoids. Furthermore, it substantiates the correlation of roman abundance with fishing effort, since habitat preferences can be ruled out by the observed causal predator-prey distribution pattern. Low algae abundances at protected sites correlated with high strepie (Sarpa salpa) frequencies within the fish communities encountered there. Strepie, a shoaling and abundant benthic grazer, does not compete for food with roman, suggesting a high potential for coexistence of the two species. As expected, and found by other studies, life history traits of roman differed between protected and exploited sample-sites. With a significantly lower age-at-maturity and age-atsex- change, the exploited population showed a typical response to fishing effort. The sex ratio of this protogynous hermaphrodite was found to be sustained at healthy levels by phenotypic plasticity. However, one important additional factor was highlighted by the study; the average condition factor of the protected population was significantly lower (0.0283 g/cm³) compared to the exploited population (0.0295 g/cm³). This was probably due to the higher intra-specific competition for lower food abundance in the protected area. Interestingly the diving and fishing survey methods yielded similar mortality results for roman. Total mortality rate estimates derived from length frequency analysis from the diving and fishing survey were not different (0.32 and 0.29 y⁻¹, respectively) as were natural mortality rate estimates (0.24 and 0.19 y⁻¹, respectively). Natural mortality rate (M) estimates indicated by Pauly’s and Hoenig’s relationship were similar (0.25 and 0.23 y⁻¹, respectively). Detailed yield-per-recruit (Y/R) and spawner biomass-per-recruit (SB/R) analyses were presented for different levels of M, varying age-at-recruitment (tR) and fishing mortality (F). Current tR (7.60 y) and F (0.16 and 0.25 y⁻¹, from the diving and fishing dataset, respectively) suggests an optimal exploitation of the population in the exploited part of the study area. However, a separate SB/R analysis of the male part of the population showed their vulnerability to over-exploitation, even at reduced age-at-sex-change from fishing. There therefore remains a high risk of recruitment failure for the roman population. Of course MPAs can be used to measure stock status directly if the influence of factors such as cachability, habitat and sampling method on CPUE assessments can be limited or reduced. The experimental design in this study allowed for contemporary CPUE comparisons across the border of the Goukamma MPA. Results were similar to those obtained by the SB/R analyses. CPUE extrapolations therefore, using small MPAs, can provide reliable and consistent estimates, and offer a practical alternative to conventional assessment strategies. This study has highlighted the importance of ensuring a well structured and comprehensive survey design when undertaking a comparison of protected and exploited marine areas. The results provide a comprehensive framework for future management of the Goukamma MPA and other protected areas along the temperate coastline of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The poetry of N.H. Brettell : a critical edition
- Authors: Hacksley, Reginald Gregory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brettell, N H -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008072
- Description: This thesis presents for the first time a critical reading edition of all known poems by N. H. Brettell. It makes no claim to being definitive, nor does it attempt to establish a final text. It represents merely the best thinking of the editor. Brettell printed and circulated his poetry primarily in hand-made illustrated volumes in a process reminiscent of the scribal publication of the seventeenth century. Only 137 of his 206 extant poems were commercially published during his lifetime. In this study all known printed versions of Brettell's poetry whether in privately printed or commercially published form were examined. All variant readings were recorded and are shown. Wherever possible the relationships between texts are also noted. The poems in this edition are ordered in each case according to the version in the latest datable privately produced collection. The commentary and critical introduction were compiled with the general reader in mind. No previous familiarity with southern African fauna and flora is assumed: animals, birds and insects are described and their scientific names supplied. Expressions current in ordinary British or South African English and present in non-specialist dictionaries are not glossed, but archaic and dialectal forms felt to require explication are briefly explained. So too are less familiar South African dialectal expressions which have been assimilated into the South African English lexicon. Intertextual, Christian and mythological references, both African and Western, are annotated in an attempt to make such references accessible to readers who may not share Brettell's cultural background. The intention is to close the changing distance between the text and the audience. An essay discussing the merits, potential and limitations of electronic scholarly editing is included as part of the textual introduction. A CD-Rom containing Brettell's watercolour illustrations in his privately produced collections and audio-clips of him reading his poetry accompanies this thesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Hacksley, Reginald Gregory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brettell, N H -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008072
- Description: This thesis presents for the first time a critical reading edition of all known poems by N. H. Brettell. It makes no claim to being definitive, nor does it attempt to establish a final text. It represents merely the best thinking of the editor. Brettell printed and circulated his poetry primarily in hand-made illustrated volumes in a process reminiscent of the scribal publication of the seventeenth century. Only 137 of his 206 extant poems were commercially published during his lifetime. In this study all known printed versions of Brettell's poetry whether in privately printed or commercially published form were examined. All variant readings were recorded and are shown. Wherever possible the relationships between texts are also noted. The poems in this edition are ordered in each case according to the version in the latest datable privately produced collection. The commentary and critical introduction were compiled with the general reader in mind. No previous familiarity with southern African fauna and flora is assumed: animals, birds and insects are described and their scientific names supplied. Expressions current in ordinary British or South African English and present in non-specialist dictionaries are not glossed, but archaic and dialectal forms felt to require explication are briefly explained. So too are less familiar South African dialectal expressions which have been assimilated into the South African English lexicon. Intertextual, Christian and mythological references, both African and Western, are annotated in an attempt to make such references accessible to readers who may not share Brettell's cultural background. The intention is to close the changing distance between the text and the audience. An essay discussing the merits, potential and limitations of electronic scholarly editing is included as part of the textual introduction. A CD-Rom containing Brettell's watercolour illustrations in his privately produced collections and audio-clips of him reading his poetry accompanies this thesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The development and application of ecological risk assessment in South African water resource management
- Authors: Claassen, Marius
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ecological risk assessment -- South Africa Water resources development -- South Africa Water quality management -- South Africa Water-supply -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:6036 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006177
- Description: The provision of goods and services by aquatic ecosystems plays an important role in socio-economic development and livelihoods in the southern African region. Water resource management in South Africa developed from an agrarian and pastoral focus up to 1956 to also supporting mining and industrial activities. This led to the introduction of the resource water quality objectives and pollution prevention approaches, which balanced the needs for development and protection. Prior to 1994, access to water resources was limited to riparian property owners and a minority of the population who controlled industrial and mining activities. The establishment of a democratic government amplified the need for accelerated socio-economic development, with equity, efficiency and sustainability being the principles of such development. New approaches were needed, which could achieve these development objectives and secure the resource base for future generations. An overview of the scientific process highlighted a risk based approach as potentially supporting the much needed balance between development and protection. The aims of this thesis is to develop a framework and process for the application of ecological risk assessment to water resource management in South Africa, to use case studies to draft guidelines for ecological risk assessment and to assess the degree to which ecological risk assessment can contribute to effective water resource management in South Africa. The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines for ecological risk assessment were identified amongst international best practice as meeting the requirements for local application. A framework was drafted for ecological risk assessment in South Africa, with the main phases being to agree on objectives, formulate the analysis plan, analyse information, characterise risk and manage risk. Modifications from the Environmental Protection Agency’s process include the order of activities in the first phase, the explicit testing of hypotheses and clarification of the evaluation of existing data or collection of new data. An industrial effluent case study was used to assess the applicability of the proposed framework. The case study dealt specifically with the assessment of risks posed by current conditions and long term licence conditions. The framework was found to be useful to identify weaknesses in the established monitoring programme and to evaluate lines of evidence to assess the degree to which the stated conditions would have unacceptable consequences. The study highlighted several weaknesses in the suggested framework, of which the most critical is the interpretation of the risk hypothesis as a testable null hypothesis. It became clear that cause-effect relationships should be stated as the risk hypothesis, whereas the assessment should evaluate expressed or expected conditions against a risk profile for a given stressor to benefit fully from the risk assessment approach. Changes to the framework terminology were suggested as well as nested feedback loops to allow for iterative processes where new information becomes available. The proposed guidelines incorporate the learning from the case study application as well as feedback from a peer review process. The guidelines incorporate the suggested actions under each phase as well as notes providing the rationale for each step. Three case study outlines were provided to assist users with the interpretation of the guidelines in different applications. The proposed guidelines are applied in an ecological Reserve determination case study, which specified the ecological water quality requirements. The study found that a risk-based approach was followed in the development of the water resource management policy, but the Reserve determination method is generally hazard based, with site specific modifications of the target values being allowed on a conservative basis. The case study highlighted a lack of readiness of water resource managers to accommodate scientific results expressed as probability distributions in support of management decisions. The thesis is concluded with a discussion of the key learning points of the ecological risk assessment development process. The evaluation highlights the move from stating and testing a null hypothesis to stating the risk hypothesis and evaluating the stated conditions against a risk profile. Several implementation challenges are highlighted, with specific recommendations made for adopting the proposed guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Claassen, Marius
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ecological risk assessment -- South Africa Water resources development -- South Africa Water quality management -- South Africa Water-supply -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:6036 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006177
- Description: The provision of goods and services by aquatic ecosystems plays an important role in socio-economic development and livelihoods in the southern African region. Water resource management in South Africa developed from an agrarian and pastoral focus up to 1956 to also supporting mining and industrial activities. This led to the introduction of the resource water quality objectives and pollution prevention approaches, which balanced the needs for development and protection. Prior to 1994, access to water resources was limited to riparian property owners and a minority of the population who controlled industrial and mining activities. The establishment of a democratic government amplified the need for accelerated socio-economic development, with equity, efficiency and sustainability being the principles of such development. New approaches were needed, which could achieve these development objectives and secure the resource base for future generations. An overview of the scientific process highlighted a risk based approach as potentially supporting the much needed balance between development and protection. The aims of this thesis is to develop a framework and process for the application of ecological risk assessment to water resource management in South Africa, to use case studies to draft guidelines for ecological risk assessment and to assess the degree to which ecological risk assessment can contribute to effective water resource management in South Africa. The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines for ecological risk assessment were identified amongst international best practice as meeting the requirements for local application. A framework was drafted for ecological risk assessment in South Africa, with the main phases being to agree on objectives, formulate the analysis plan, analyse information, characterise risk and manage risk. Modifications from the Environmental Protection Agency’s process include the order of activities in the first phase, the explicit testing of hypotheses and clarification of the evaluation of existing data or collection of new data. An industrial effluent case study was used to assess the applicability of the proposed framework. The case study dealt specifically with the assessment of risks posed by current conditions and long term licence conditions. The framework was found to be useful to identify weaknesses in the established monitoring programme and to evaluate lines of evidence to assess the degree to which the stated conditions would have unacceptable consequences. The study highlighted several weaknesses in the suggested framework, of which the most critical is the interpretation of the risk hypothesis as a testable null hypothesis. It became clear that cause-effect relationships should be stated as the risk hypothesis, whereas the assessment should evaluate expressed or expected conditions against a risk profile for a given stressor to benefit fully from the risk assessment approach. Changes to the framework terminology were suggested as well as nested feedback loops to allow for iterative processes where new information becomes available. The proposed guidelines incorporate the learning from the case study application as well as feedback from a peer review process. The guidelines incorporate the suggested actions under each phase as well as notes providing the rationale for each step. Three case study outlines were provided to assist users with the interpretation of the guidelines in different applications. The proposed guidelines are applied in an ecological Reserve determination case study, which specified the ecological water quality requirements. The study found that a risk-based approach was followed in the development of the water resource management policy, but the Reserve determination method is generally hazard based, with site specific modifications of the target values being allowed on a conservative basis. The case study highlighted a lack of readiness of water resource managers to accommodate scientific results expressed as probability distributions in support of management decisions. The thesis is concluded with a discussion of the key learning points of the ecological risk assessment development process. The evaluation highlights the move from stating and testing a null hypothesis to stating the risk hypothesis and evaluating the stated conditions against a risk profile. Several implementation challenges are highlighted, with specific recommendations made for adopting the proposed guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The 'global' and the 'local' : a comparative study of development practices in three South African municipalities
- Authors: Gibb, Matthew William
- Date: 2013-08-15
- Subjects: Ndlambe Municipality Emalahleni Municipality Cape Town Municipality Local government -- South Africa Poor -- South Africa Globalization Economic development -- South Africa Community development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008413
- Description: On first impression, it would seem that globalisation is producing an increasingly homogenous trans-border world, whereby, as a result of key changes including the impact of technological improvements, foreign travel, the spread of westernised cultural identities, market capitalism, and liberal democracy, the point has been reached where it is now becoming difficult to tell different localities apart. In this process, it is often forgotten what role individual places assume in the creation of this globalised world and that not all will benefit from globalisation. In many respects, locally specific activities, including urban renewal, place promotion, and infrastructural developments pursued within a selection of the planet's most strategically connected cities are now the primary catalysts of, and the influence behind, globalisation. Likewise, community-businesses, rural micro-industries, and alternative livelihoods are some of the key mechanisms that under-privileged localities in developing countries are employing to either respond to the marginalization imposed by globalisation, or to simply ensure survival. The emergence of localisation theory has therefore acknowledged and exemplified the importance of the locality in the context of the global economy as either a key node within it or a point within which people must engage in coping strategies, often as a result of the negative impacts of globalisation. In recent years, varying styles of locality-based development have become central to enhancing both the pro-growth global competitiveness of a number of South African localities, as well as for initiating pro-poor interventions in several of the country's smaller towns and rural areas. In the City of Cape Town, millions of Rands have been invested by the municipality and the private sector in urban regeneration strategies,which have led to an economic rebirth in the city centre and have generated numerous jobs in the tertiary and construction sectors that have helped to enhance the city's global stature. In Ndlambe Municipality, two community-businesses, which have received national funding and have strong municipal support, employ fifty people between them and have demonstrated the advantages of participatory action in propoor local development, within the context of the open market. In Emalahleni Municipality, attempts at locality-based development have been instigated directly by the local poor themselves and have been organised by members of the community in the face of non-existent local government support, which have resulted in the creation of several hundred income-earning opportunities for area residents. In summary, these three cases illustrate a range of approaches to locality-based development cunently undertaken in South Africa by different localities possessing widely differing resources, skills, and degrees of global connectivity in order to initiate growth and enhance standards of living. From a theoretical perspective this study provides a South African slant on global theories and processes and further indicates the role that a series of localities in the South are playing in a changing global system. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gibb, Matthew William
- Date: 2013-08-15
- Subjects: Ndlambe Municipality Emalahleni Municipality Cape Town Municipality Local government -- South Africa Poor -- South Africa Globalization Economic development -- South Africa Community development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008413
- Description: On first impression, it would seem that globalisation is producing an increasingly homogenous trans-border world, whereby, as a result of key changes including the impact of technological improvements, foreign travel, the spread of westernised cultural identities, market capitalism, and liberal democracy, the point has been reached where it is now becoming difficult to tell different localities apart. In this process, it is often forgotten what role individual places assume in the creation of this globalised world and that not all will benefit from globalisation. In many respects, locally specific activities, including urban renewal, place promotion, and infrastructural developments pursued within a selection of the planet's most strategically connected cities are now the primary catalysts of, and the influence behind, globalisation. Likewise, community-businesses, rural micro-industries, and alternative livelihoods are some of the key mechanisms that under-privileged localities in developing countries are employing to either respond to the marginalization imposed by globalisation, or to simply ensure survival. The emergence of localisation theory has therefore acknowledged and exemplified the importance of the locality in the context of the global economy as either a key node within it or a point within which people must engage in coping strategies, often as a result of the negative impacts of globalisation. In recent years, varying styles of locality-based development have become central to enhancing both the pro-growth global competitiveness of a number of South African localities, as well as for initiating pro-poor interventions in several of the country's smaller towns and rural areas. In the City of Cape Town, millions of Rands have been invested by the municipality and the private sector in urban regeneration strategies,which have led to an economic rebirth in the city centre and have generated numerous jobs in the tertiary and construction sectors that have helped to enhance the city's global stature. In Ndlambe Municipality, two community-businesses, which have received national funding and have strong municipal support, employ fifty people between them and have demonstrated the advantages of participatory action in propoor local development, within the context of the open market. In Emalahleni Municipality, attempts at locality-based development have been instigated directly by the local poor themselves and have been organised by members of the community in the face of non-existent local government support, which have resulted in the creation of several hundred income-earning opportunities for area residents. In summary, these three cases illustrate a range of approaches to locality-based development cunently undertaken in South Africa by different localities possessing widely differing resources, skills, and degrees of global connectivity in order to initiate growth and enhance standards of living. From a theoretical perspective this study provides a South African slant on global theories and processes and further indicates the role that a series of localities in the South are playing in a changing global system. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
A critical analysis of organisational strategies for employee engagement
- Authors: Poisat, Paul
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Employees -- Attitudes , Employee motivation , Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/466 , Employees -- Attitudes , Employee motivation , Personnel management
- Description: Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness as a means to survive in the global economy. More recently approaches have focused on the role that people perform in bringing about competitive advantage. Research indicates that engaged employees contribute vastly to the financial bottom-line of the organisation (see section 3.2.2). The research problem in this study was to identify strategies that organisations can use to engage their employees. To achieve this objective a theoretical employee engagement model was presented. The presentation of the theoretical model consisted of the following sub-processes: § Firstly, a literature survey was conducted to determine the underlying drivers/constructs of employee engagement. Abstract iii § The second comprised surveying the literature dealing specifically with approaches for measuring employee engagement. § Thirdly, the literature was surveyed to identify strategies and models used by organisations for engaging employees. The theoretical employee engagement model served as a basis for the compilation of the survey questionnaire that determined the extent to which human resource practitioners and line managers agree with the theoretical model developed in this study. The questionnaire was administered to a random sample of individuals employed in the automotive cluster in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality and the Buffalo City Metropole. The empirical results obtained from the survey indicated that respondents strongly concurred with the theoretical employee engagement model presented in the study. These results were included in the theoretical model, which lead to the development of the integrated organisational employee engagement model. The model comprises of four interrelated categories that all contribute to enhancing employees’ engagement. These categories are organisational leadership, organisational culture, organisational strategies and the manager’s role. From the literature survey and the study it became clear that the role of the manager, had the most significant impact on employee engagement of all the categories. In addition, the integrated organisational employee engagement model can be used by organisations as an applied strategy for the measurement of employee engagement. The main findings from this research are that 60 per cent of organisations that participated in the empirical study had implemented strategies to engage their employees. However, the majority of organisations reporting not having an engagement strategy were among organisations that employed less than 700 employees (smaller organisations). The study also highlighted certain variables that required special attention, especially when implementing employee engagement within the South African context. South African companies as compared to their overseas counterparts, rated organisational engagement variables such as remuneration, benefits and gain sharing lower. A further variable that was identified by the study requiring special attention was, ‘senior management shows a sincere interest in employees’ well-being’. A final point emanating from the study is that the implementation of employee engagement, as a strategy to enhance organisational competitiveness, must be viewed as a continuous process. Organisations should prior, to the implementation of an employee engagement strategy, consider whether they are prepared to share engagement results, take corrective action commensurate with the results and deal with employee expectations that may be incurred. The strategies espoused by the integrated organisational employee engagement model developed in this study, can be used by organisations to increase organisational competitiveness by improving their employees’ level of engagement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Poisat, Paul
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Employees -- Attitudes , Employee motivation , Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:9378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/466 , Employees -- Attitudes , Employee motivation , Personnel management
- Description: Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness as a means to survive in the global economy. More recently approaches have focused on the role that people perform in bringing about competitive advantage. Research indicates that engaged employees contribute vastly to the financial bottom-line of the organisation (see section 3.2.2). The research problem in this study was to identify strategies that organisations can use to engage their employees. To achieve this objective a theoretical employee engagement model was presented. The presentation of the theoretical model consisted of the following sub-processes: § Firstly, a literature survey was conducted to determine the underlying drivers/constructs of employee engagement. Abstract iii § The second comprised surveying the literature dealing specifically with approaches for measuring employee engagement. § Thirdly, the literature was surveyed to identify strategies and models used by organisations for engaging employees. The theoretical employee engagement model served as a basis for the compilation of the survey questionnaire that determined the extent to which human resource practitioners and line managers agree with the theoretical model developed in this study. The questionnaire was administered to a random sample of individuals employed in the automotive cluster in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality and the Buffalo City Metropole. The empirical results obtained from the survey indicated that respondents strongly concurred with the theoretical employee engagement model presented in the study. These results were included in the theoretical model, which lead to the development of the integrated organisational employee engagement model. The model comprises of four interrelated categories that all contribute to enhancing employees’ engagement. These categories are organisational leadership, organisational culture, organisational strategies and the manager’s role. From the literature survey and the study it became clear that the role of the manager, had the most significant impact on employee engagement of all the categories. In addition, the integrated organisational employee engagement model can be used by organisations as an applied strategy for the measurement of employee engagement. The main findings from this research are that 60 per cent of organisations that participated in the empirical study had implemented strategies to engage their employees. However, the majority of organisations reporting not having an engagement strategy were among organisations that employed less than 700 employees (smaller organisations). The study also highlighted certain variables that required special attention, especially when implementing employee engagement within the South African context. South African companies as compared to their overseas counterparts, rated organisational engagement variables such as remuneration, benefits and gain sharing lower. A further variable that was identified by the study requiring special attention was, ‘senior management shows a sincere interest in employees’ well-being’. A final point emanating from the study is that the implementation of employee engagement, as a strategy to enhance organisational competitiveness, must be viewed as a continuous process. Organisations should prior, to the implementation of an employee engagement strategy, consider whether they are prepared to share engagement results, take corrective action commensurate with the results and deal with employee expectations that may be incurred. The strategies espoused by the integrated organisational employee engagement model developed in this study, can be used by organisations to increase organisational competitiveness by improving their employees’ level of engagement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The politics of transformation in South Africa: an evaluation of education policies and their implementation with particular reference to the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Rembe, Symphorosa Wilibald
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003036
- Description: The post-apartheid government of South Africa has committed itself to achieving fundamental transformation of the education system. The government has adopted policies and measures that aimed to bring about the goals of equity and redress, and to enhance democracy and participation of all groups in development and decision making processes at all levels. It is acknowledged that the democratic government has accomplished a lot in education within this short period and has made numerous strides in enhancing equity, redress and social justice; providing high quality education for all the people of South Africa; bringing about democratisation and development; and enhancing effectiveness and efficiency. However, despite these apparent achievements, this study shows that there have been a number of setbacks and contradictions in the policies which have affected the process of bringing about fundamental changes and transformation in the education sector. The setbacks and contradictions resulted from factors which have affected the type of policies developed to transform the education sector. They also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, thereby limiting the achievements of the goals of transformation agenda in education. Hence, this study examined the politics of transformation and change in the education sector by examining the type of policies that have been put in place; their formulation, implementation and outcome. The main research questions are: • What kind or type of policies have been put in place to transform the education sector? • How and by whom were the policies formulated? • How are these policies being implemented and what have been the outcomes of the process? Transformation and in particular the policy process is beset with continuous debate, contestation and struggle for the success of ideas and interests which are pursued by individual actors, groups and policy networks through the institutions. During these different stages policies are modified, constituted and reconstituted. As a result, they give rise to intended and unintended outcomes which are likely to support or contradict the objectives of those policies. Hence, the process cannot be explained using only one approach or theory. Therefore, this study has been situated in ideas, group and network and institutional approaches or theories to examine the factors that have affected education policies, their formulation and implementation and the overall transformation of education in South Africa. It contends that policy change and variation result from interaction of ideas and interests within patterns of group and policy networks and preset institutions. The study adopts qualitative interpretive methodology in order to question, understand and explain institutions; interests groups and ideas; socio economic and power relations involved in the process. It also appraises the framework for action. In addition to conducting literature review, unstructured interviews were held with officials from provincial and national Departments of Education, members of national and provincial legislatures, principals, teachers, members of school governing bodies, learners, Non-governmental organisations, Community based organisations, Faith based organisations, teachers’ and workers’ unions. Observations were made during meetings of school governing bodies. The study draws reference from the Eastern Cape Province between 1994 and 2002 and looks at the school level (Basic and Further Education levels). Reference is also made to selective policy instruments namely, the South African Schools Act (SASA) (1996), Curriculum 2005 and Norms and Standards for School Funding (1999). Overall, the findings of the study have shown that various factors have led to setbacks and contradictions in the policies that were adopted in education. They have also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, hence exerting certain limitations on the achievements of the goals of transformation in education. The factors identified in the findings are the outcome of the negotiated settlement and subsequent changes made by the apartheid government in education before the 1994 elections; constraints and unequal participation of different groups in education policy development in various established structures and avenues; drawbacks in the implementation of education policies by decentralised structures and agents at various levels. This was exacerbated by lack of capacity, lack of adequate resources, lack of commitment and will among some of the civil servants coupled with corruption and mismanagement. The legacy of apartheid and the homeland governments, together with existing backlogs added another layer. Consequently, there were challenges in the economic policy which led to inadequate funding for education. The findings of this study show that competing ideas and interests advanced by groups and networks have impact on decision making, policy content and implementation. Therefore, some policies will reflect and maintain the interests of those individual actors, groups and policy networks that exerted most influence. The findings also reveal that institutional norms and rules, inadequate resources, lack of capacity and skilled human resources and economic environment, constrain decision making, policy content and implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Rembe, Symphorosa Wilibald
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003036
- Description: The post-apartheid government of South Africa has committed itself to achieving fundamental transformation of the education system. The government has adopted policies and measures that aimed to bring about the goals of equity and redress, and to enhance democracy and participation of all groups in development and decision making processes at all levels. It is acknowledged that the democratic government has accomplished a lot in education within this short period and has made numerous strides in enhancing equity, redress and social justice; providing high quality education for all the people of South Africa; bringing about democratisation and development; and enhancing effectiveness and efficiency. However, despite these apparent achievements, this study shows that there have been a number of setbacks and contradictions in the policies which have affected the process of bringing about fundamental changes and transformation in the education sector. The setbacks and contradictions resulted from factors which have affected the type of policies developed to transform the education sector. They also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, thereby limiting the achievements of the goals of transformation agenda in education. Hence, this study examined the politics of transformation and change in the education sector by examining the type of policies that have been put in place; their formulation, implementation and outcome. The main research questions are: • What kind or type of policies have been put in place to transform the education sector? • How and by whom were the policies formulated? • How are these policies being implemented and what have been the outcomes of the process? Transformation and in particular the policy process is beset with continuous debate, contestation and struggle for the success of ideas and interests which are pursued by individual actors, groups and policy networks through the institutions. During these different stages policies are modified, constituted and reconstituted. As a result, they give rise to intended and unintended outcomes which are likely to support or contradict the objectives of those policies. Hence, the process cannot be explained using only one approach or theory. Therefore, this study has been situated in ideas, group and network and institutional approaches or theories to examine the factors that have affected education policies, their formulation and implementation and the overall transformation of education in South Africa. It contends that policy change and variation result from interaction of ideas and interests within patterns of group and policy networks and preset institutions. The study adopts qualitative interpretive methodology in order to question, understand and explain institutions; interests groups and ideas; socio economic and power relations involved in the process. It also appraises the framework for action. In addition to conducting literature review, unstructured interviews were held with officials from provincial and national Departments of Education, members of national and provincial legislatures, principals, teachers, members of school governing bodies, learners, Non-governmental organisations, Community based organisations, Faith based organisations, teachers’ and workers’ unions. Observations were made during meetings of school governing bodies. The study draws reference from the Eastern Cape Province between 1994 and 2002 and looks at the school level (Basic and Further Education levels). Reference is also made to selective policy instruments namely, the South African Schools Act (SASA) (1996), Curriculum 2005 and Norms and Standards for School Funding (1999). Overall, the findings of the study have shown that various factors have led to setbacks and contradictions in the policies that were adopted in education. They have also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, hence exerting certain limitations on the achievements of the goals of transformation in education. The factors identified in the findings are the outcome of the negotiated settlement and subsequent changes made by the apartheid government in education before the 1994 elections; constraints and unequal participation of different groups in education policy development in various established structures and avenues; drawbacks in the implementation of education policies by decentralised structures and agents at various levels. This was exacerbated by lack of capacity, lack of adequate resources, lack of commitment and will among some of the civil servants coupled with corruption and mismanagement. The legacy of apartheid and the homeland governments, together with existing backlogs added another layer. Consequently, there were challenges in the economic policy which led to inadequate funding for education. The findings of this study show that competing ideas and interests advanced by groups and networks have impact on decision making, policy content and implementation. Therefore, some policies will reflect and maintain the interests of those individual actors, groups and policy networks that exerted most influence. The findings also reveal that institutional norms and rules, inadequate resources, lack of capacity and skilled human resources and economic environment, constrain decision making, policy content and implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Aspects of the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Annette
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3696 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003211 , Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis investigates current sentencing practices relating to the diverse, complex and emotionally laden phenomenon of child sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions, on case law and on an empirical study conducted amongst regional court magistrates. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and possible solutions to the main problems identified are investigated. The thesis concludes with proposed guidelines regarding the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases. Such guidelines address general and specific principles, the use of victim impact statements, the increased recognition and use of behavioural science in the sentencing phase with regard to both the victim and the offender, and relevant aggravating and mitigating factors. The guidelines are an attempt to give some structure to the current haphazard approach adopted by the courts with regard to harm experienced by the victim. They are also aimed at assisting experts to provide more effective and reliable pre-sentence reports. Further, the thesis attempts to provide clarity concerning the factors that are considered to be aggravating or mitigating in the offence category, child sexual abuse, as well as with regard to the weight that should be attached to them. In addition, recommendations are made for the purpose of possible law reform and further research in relation to the regulation of judicial discretion through the introduction of formal sentencing guidelines, victim impact statements and the accommodation of behavioural science in the sentencing process pertaining to sexual offenders. This proposal is based on current South African sentencing practices as reflected in the consolidation of local judgments scattered over many years in different law reports and, to some extent, on English, Canadian, Australian and American sentencing practices as researched in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Annette
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3696 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003211 , Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis investigates current sentencing practices relating to the diverse, complex and emotionally laden phenomenon of child sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions, on case law and on an empirical study conducted amongst regional court magistrates. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and possible solutions to the main problems identified are investigated. The thesis concludes with proposed guidelines regarding the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases. Such guidelines address general and specific principles, the use of victim impact statements, the increased recognition and use of behavioural science in the sentencing phase with regard to both the victim and the offender, and relevant aggravating and mitigating factors. The guidelines are an attempt to give some structure to the current haphazard approach adopted by the courts with regard to harm experienced by the victim. They are also aimed at assisting experts to provide more effective and reliable pre-sentence reports. Further, the thesis attempts to provide clarity concerning the factors that are considered to be aggravating or mitigating in the offence category, child sexual abuse, as well as with regard to the weight that should be attached to them. In addition, recommendations are made for the purpose of possible law reform and further research in relation to the regulation of judicial discretion through the introduction of formal sentencing guidelines, victim impact statements and the accommodation of behavioural science in the sentencing process pertaining to sexual offenders. This proposal is based on current South African sentencing practices as reflected in the consolidation of local judgments scattered over many years in different law reports and, to some extent, on English, Canadian, Australian and American sentencing practices as researched in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
A genetic and ecophysiological comparison of co-occuring indigenous (Perna perna) and invasive (Mytilus galloprovincialis) intertidal mussels
- Authors: Zardi, G I
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Perna -- South Africa Mytilus galloprovincialis -- South Africa Mussels -- South Africa Mytilidae -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5613 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003066
- Description: The Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis is the most successful marine invasive species in South Africa. Its presence has had significant ecological consequences on the intertidal communities of the west coast. On the south coast, M galloprovincialis co-exists and competes with the indigenous intertidal mussel Perna perna in the lower balanoid zone, where they show partial habitat segregation. The upper and the lower mussel zones are dominated by M. galloprovincialis and P. perna respectively while they co-occur in the mid zone. In this thesis M. galloprovincialis and P. perna are compared in terms of their population genetics and their ecophysiology. The success of an invader depends on its ability to react to new environmental factors, especially when compared to indigenous species. The distribution and diversity of intertidal species throughout the world are strongly influenced by periodic sand inundation and hydrodynamic stress. Occupying the lower intertidal zone, P. perna is more strongly influenced by sand (burial and sand in suspension) than M. galioprovincialis. Despite this, P. perna is more vulnerable to the effects of sand, showing higher mortality rates under experimental conditions in both the laboratory and the field. M. galioprovincialis has longer labial palps than P. perna, indicating a better ability to sort particles. This, and a higher tolerance to anoxia, explains its lower mortality rates when exposed to burial or suspended sand. Habitat segregation is often explained by physiological tolerances, but in this case, such explanations fail. The ability of a mussel to withstand wave-generated hydrodynamic stress depends mainly on its byssal attachment strength. The higher attachment strength of P. perna compared to M. galioprovincialis and of solitary mussels compared to mussels living within a bed (bed mussels) can be explained by more and thicker byssal threads. M galloprovincialis also has a wider shell, is subjected to higher hydrodynamic loads than P. perna and shows a higher theoretical probability of dislodgement, this is borne out under field conditions. The attachment strength of both species increased from higher to lower shore, in parallel to a gradient of a stronger wave action. Monthly measurements showed that P. perna is always more strongly attached than M. galloprovincialis and revealed seasonal fluctuations of attachment strength for both species in response to wave height. The gonad index of both species was negatively cross-correlated with attachment strength. The results are discussed in the context of the evolutionary strategy of the alien mussel, which directs most of its energy to fast growth and high reproductive output, apparently at the cost of reduced attachment strength. This raises the prediction that its invasive impact will be more pronounced at sites subjected to low or moderate wave action at heavily exposed sites. The potential of a species for invasion is also determined by the ability of the invader to disperse. Population genetics provide indirect information about dispersal through a direct measurement of gene flow. The low genetic divergence (measured as mtDNA) of M. galloprovincialis confirms its recent arrival in South Africa. In contrast, the population genetics structure of P. perna revealed strong divergence on the south-east coast, resulting in a western lineage (straddling the distributional gap of the Benguela System), and an eastern lineage, with an overlap region of the two on the south coast between Kenton-on-Sea and Haga Haga. This genetic disjunction may be caused by Agulhas Current acting as an oceanographic barrier to larval dispersal, or by different environmental selective forces acting on regional populations. Over the last ten years, M. galloprovincialis has shown a decrease or cessation of its spread to the east in exactly the region of the genetic disjunction in P. perna, again suggesting either an oceanographic barrier to larval dispersal, or increasing selection driven by sharp gradients in environmental conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Zardi, G I
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Perna -- South Africa Mytilus galloprovincialis -- South Africa Mussels -- South Africa Mytilidae -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5613 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003066
- Description: The Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis is the most successful marine invasive species in South Africa. Its presence has had significant ecological consequences on the intertidal communities of the west coast. On the south coast, M galloprovincialis co-exists and competes with the indigenous intertidal mussel Perna perna in the lower balanoid zone, where they show partial habitat segregation. The upper and the lower mussel zones are dominated by M. galloprovincialis and P. perna respectively while they co-occur in the mid zone. In this thesis M. galloprovincialis and P. perna are compared in terms of their population genetics and their ecophysiology. The success of an invader depends on its ability to react to new environmental factors, especially when compared to indigenous species. The distribution and diversity of intertidal species throughout the world are strongly influenced by periodic sand inundation and hydrodynamic stress. Occupying the lower intertidal zone, P. perna is more strongly influenced by sand (burial and sand in suspension) than M. galioprovincialis. Despite this, P. perna is more vulnerable to the effects of sand, showing higher mortality rates under experimental conditions in both the laboratory and the field. M. galioprovincialis has longer labial palps than P. perna, indicating a better ability to sort particles. This, and a higher tolerance to anoxia, explains its lower mortality rates when exposed to burial or suspended sand. Habitat segregation is often explained by physiological tolerances, but in this case, such explanations fail. The ability of a mussel to withstand wave-generated hydrodynamic stress depends mainly on its byssal attachment strength. The higher attachment strength of P. perna compared to M. galioprovincialis and of solitary mussels compared to mussels living within a bed (bed mussels) can be explained by more and thicker byssal threads. M galloprovincialis also has a wider shell, is subjected to higher hydrodynamic loads than P. perna and shows a higher theoretical probability of dislodgement, this is borne out under field conditions. The attachment strength of both species increased from higher to lower shore, in parallel to a gradient of a stronger wave action. Monthly measurements showed that P. perna is always more strongly attached than M. galloprovincialis and revealed seasonal fluctuations of attachment strength for both species in response to wave height. The gonad index of both species was negatively cross-correlated with attachment strength. The results are discussed in the context of the evolutionary strategy of the alien mussel, which directs most of its energy to fast growth and high reproductive output, apparently at the cost of reduced attachment strength. This raises the prediction that its invasive impact will be more pronounced at sites subjected to low or moderate wave action at heavily exposed sites. The potential of a species for invasion is also determined by the ability of the invader to disperse. Population genetics provide indirect information about dispersal through a direct measurement of gene flow. The low genetic divergence (measured as mtDNA) of M. galloprovincialis confirms its recent arrival in South Africa. In contrast, the population genetics structure of P. perna revealed strong divergence on the south-east coast, resulting in a western lineage (straddling the distributional gap of the Benguela System), and an eastern lineage, with an overlap region of the two on the south coast between Kenton-on-Sea and Haga Haga. This genetic disjunction may be caused by Agulhas Current acting as an oceanographic barrier to larval dispersal, or by different environmental selective forces acting on regional populations. Over the last ten years, M. galloprovincialis has shown a decrease or cessation of its spread to the east in exactly the region of the genetic disjunction in P. perna, again suggesting either an oceanographic barrier to larval dispersal, or increasing selection driven by sharp gradients in environmental conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Teachers as recontextualisers: a case study analysis of outcomes-based assessment policy implementation in two South African schools
- Authors: Wilmot, Pamela Dianne
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Competency-based education -- South Africa Competency-based education -- South Africa -- Case studies Educational change -- South Africa Teacher participation in curriculum planning -- South Africa Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1792 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003677
- Description: The research presented in this thesis is a case study analysis of outcomes-based assessment in Grade 9 Human and Social Sciences of Curriculum 2005 in two South African schools. The research consists of two parts: Phase One, 2002 to 2003, was a qualitative case study, interpretive in orientation and using ethnographic techniques, aimed at understanding teachers’ responses to curriculum policy and the role of a school-based intervention, located within critically reflexive practice, in supporting change. During this phase, I was a co-participant operating from an insider position. During Phase Two, 2004-2005, I withdrew from the schools and took up an outsider position in order to analyse and theorise the case study. The findings of the interpretive review revealed a fascinating process of change, with some unexpected results that I lacked the theoretical and methodological tools to process. With support from critical friends, I realised that a dynamic and social process of knowledge recontextualisation had taken place, and that the research had moved beyond its initial goals. Not wishing to compromise my integrity as a qualitative researcher, I changed direction and made use of Basil Bernstein’s theorising (1990, 1996) to arrive at a suitable vantage point for the analysis. The main contention of this thesis is that the new OBE curriculum framework offers exciting opportunities for teacher participation in curriculum processes. However, if teachers are to maximise these and become agents of change, they need to acquire the rules of recontextualisation and reposition themselves in the recontextualising field. This implies epistemological empowerment, which takes time and mediation but which can be achieved through an approach to teacher professional development located in critically reflexive practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wilmot, Pamela Dianne
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Competency-based education -- South Africa Competency-based education -- South Africa -- Case studies Educational change -- South Africa Teacher participation in curriculum planning -- South Africa Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1792 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003677
- Description: The research presented in this thesis is a case study analysis of outcomes-based assessment in Grade 9 Human and Social Sciences of Curriculum 2005 in two South African schools. The research consists of two parts: Phase One, 2002 to 2003, was a qualitative case study, interpretive in orientation and using ethnographic techniques, aimed at understanding teachers’ responses to curriculum policy and the role of a school-based intervention, located within critically reflexive practice, in supporting change. During this phase, I was a co-participant operating from an insider position. During Phase Two, 2004-2005, I withdrew from the schools and took up an outsider position in order to analyse and theorise the case study. The findings of the interpretive review revealed a fascinating process of change, with some unexpected results that I lacked the theoretical and methodological tools to process. With support from critical friends, I realised that a dynamic and social process of knowledge recontextualisation had taken place, and that the research had moved beyond its initial goals. Not wishing to compromise my integrity as a qualitative researcher, I changed direction and made use of Basil Bernstein’s theorising (1990, 1996) to arrive at a suitable vantage point for the analysis. The main contention of this thesis is that the new OBE curriculum framework offers exciting opportunities for teacher participation in curriculum processes. However, if teachers are to maximise these and become agents of change, they need to acquire the rules of recontextualisation and reposition themselves in the recontextualising field. This implies epistemological empowerment, which takes time and mediation but which can be achieved through an approach to teacher professional development located in critically reflexive practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Developing self-regulated learning through the use of meta-cognitive strategies in adventure-based activities
- Authors: Galbraith, Ian William
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Lilyfontein School Adventure education Education -- South Africa -- Curricula Competency-based education -- South Africa Educational psychology Cognitive learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003376
- Description: This research investigates the benefits of adventure-based activities used as a learning experience at school level. In order to scientifically investigate these benefits the study is located at a school where an adventure-based programme is being developed as part of the school's curriculum. This programme consists of a range of adventure type experiences including, rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, mountain biking, group dynamic activities, survival camps, ropes courses and adventure racing. At Lilyfontein School these activities form part of the Life Orientation and life Skill programmes from grade 1 to grade 11. Specialized and qualified staff are used to conduct some of these programmes. Adventure-based activities are rigorous and contain elements of risk which require problem solving, good decision making and sound emotional management. These aspects present both physical and mental challenges to any participant. This study postulates that learners engaged in these adventure type activities are faced with using meta-cognitive strategies to help them through these mental and physical challenges. In doing these activities regularly learners will develop meta-cognitive strategies that will enable them to become better self-regulated learners. A self-regulated learner is able to use meta-cognitive strategies like problem solving, decision making, selfevaluation, self-monitoring, self-reflective thinking or emotional control in life generally. The aim of this research is to conduct an on-going action research study of the adventure-based programmes to determine their worth for the learners at Lilyfontein School and consequently the future of such experiences in a school's curriculum. This forms the primary goal of this research. The secondary goal is to gather valid and reliable evidence required to make an argument for the School's Governing Body (SGB) and Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) to be able to substantiate decisions relating to any such future programmes. This research regards the school context as the activity system which forms a primary case study. In order to extract maximum information from this educational system, embedded case studies will be conducted and monitored. These embedded case studies will be made up of the following groups of people: firstly the learners engaged in a variety of adventure-based experiences, secondly the educators as they observe and perceive the consequences of these experiences, and thirdly the parents as they identifY possible influences of adventure-based experiences on the behaviours, beliefs or habits of their children. In this research study data collecting techniques are used to extract infonnation from the embedded cases. Infonnation is elicited from parents and educators through the use of questionnaires and interviews. For learners, narratives and interviews are used to get a more qualitative sense of their beliefs and feelings on adventure-based experiences. However, in order to capture and document the learners' use of metacognitive strategies as they engage in the rigours of an adventure-based activity a more empirical approach is used. This approach uses in-depth observation, recording and measuring of the learners in action. Video footage is used to record the learners' reactions as they battle with fear, mental-strength, fatigue and decision making to accomplish their goal during an adventure activity. This study claims that an adventure-based experience helps to mediate the learning that will develop selfregulatory strategies in a learner. The limited research in the adventure-based learning field and more significantly the lack of empirical evidence of how meta-cognitive strategies fonn a crucial component of adventure-based activities has meant that the researcher has developed his own recording, measuring and analytical tools to serve this end. He has chosen to use Engestrom's third generation Activity Theory model which provides a useful underlying theory as well as an analytical and interpretive framework for this study. The research was conducted over a period of three years. Findings are considered in relation to the National Curriculum Statement for the GET and FET bands to ensure its relevance in the school context to the National Department of Education's expectations for the Life Orientation curriculum. The empirical findings of this study at Lilyfontein School and their relevance to the curriculum content of the National Curriculum Statement ought to provide convincing data for very important curriculum policy decisions at Lilyfontein School and in the broader educational context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Galbraith, Ian William
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Lilyfontein School Adventure education Education -- South Africa -- Curricula Competency-based education -- South Africa Educational psychology Cognitive learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1495 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003376
- Description: This research investigates the benefits of adventure-based activities used as a learning experience at school level. In order to scientifically investigate these benefits the study is located at a school where an adventure-based programme is being developed as part of the school's curriculum. This programme consists of a range of adventure type experiences including, rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, mountain biking, group dynamic activities, survival camps, ropes courses and adventure racing. At Lilyfontein School these activities form part of the Life Orientation and life Skill programmes from grade 1 to grade 11. Specialized and qualified staff are used to conduct some of these programmes. Adventure-based activities are rigorous and contain elements of risk which require problem solving, good decision making and sound emotional management. These aspects present both physical and mental challenges to any participant. This study postulates that learners engaged in these adventure type activities are faced with using meta-cognitive strategies to help them through these mental and physical challenges. In doing these activities regularly learners will develop meta-cognitive strategies that will enable them to become better self-regulated learners. A self-regulated learner is able to use meta-cognitive strategies like problem solving, decision making, selfevaluation, self-monitoring, self-reflective thinking or emotional control in life generally. The aim of this research is to conduct an on-going action research study of the adventure-based programmes to determine their worth for the learners at Lilyfontein School and consequently the future of such experiences in a school's curriculum. This forms the primary goal of this research. The secondary goal is to gather valid and reliable evidence required to make an argument for the School's Governing Body (SGB) and Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) to be able to substantiate decisions relating to any such future programmes. This research regards the school context as the activity system which forms a primary case study. In order to extract maximum information from this educational system, embedded case studies will be conducted and monitored. These embedded case studies will be made up of the following groups of people: firstly the learners engaged in a variety of adventure-based experiences, secondly the educators as they observe and perceive the consequences of these experiences, and thirdly the parents as they identifY possible influences of adventure-based experiences on the behaviours, beliefs or habits of their children. In this research study data collecting techniques are used to extract infonnation from the embedded cases. Infonnation is elicited from parents and educators through the use of questionnaires and interviews. For learners, narratives and interviews are used to get a more qualitative sense of their beliefs and feelings on adventure-based experiences. However, in order to capture and document the learners' use of metacognitive strategies as they engage in the rigours of an adventure-based activity a more empirical approach is used. This approach uses in-depth observation, recording and measuring of the learners in action. Video footage is used to record the learners' reactions as they battle with fear, mental-strength, fatigue and decision making to accomplish their goal during an adventure activity. This study claims that an adventure-based experience helps to mediate the learning that will develop selfregulatory strategies in a learner. The limited research in the adventure-based learning field and more significantly the lack of empirical evidence of how meta-cognitive strategies fonn a crucial component of adventure-based activities has meant that the researcher has developed his own recording, measuring and analytical tools to serve this end. He has chosen to use Engestrom's third generation Activity Theory model which provides a useful underlying theory as well as an analytical and interpretive framework for this study. The research was conducted over a period of three years. Findings are considered in relation to the National Curriculum Statement for the GET and FET bands to ensure its relevance in the school context to the National Department of Education's expectations for the Life Orientation curriculum. The empirical findings of this study at Lilyfontein School and their relevance to the curriculum content of the National Curriculum Statement ought to provide convincing data for very important curriculum policy decisions at Lilyfontein School and in the broader educational context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Reactions in the solid state
- Authors: Brown, Michael Ewart
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Solid state chemistry , Thermal analysis , Chemistry, Analytic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DSc
- Identifier: vital:4529 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015762
- Description: I have chosen the title for this thesis, "Reactions in the Solid State", for two reasons: Firstly, it is broad enough to cover all of my areas of research, which have been: • Effects of irradiation on solids (PhD topic) • Silver refining (while at the Chamber of Mines) • Kinetics of decomposition of solids (with Dr A.K. Galwey and various others) • Techniques of thermal analysis • Pyrotechnic delay systems (with support from AECI Explosives) • Thermal and photostability of drugs (with Prof B.D. Glass) and, secondly, it was the title of the very successful book co-authored by Drs Andrew Galwey, David Dollimore and me. A large part of my research has been involved in the writing and editing of books, so these are covered in a separate commentary, while commentary on the more than 100 papers to which I have contributed forms the main part of this compilation. It is hoped that the electronic format will enable ready access of to all aspects of my research, including electronic versions of the original papers. The reader will need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader to access these.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Brown, Michael Ewart
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Solid state chemistry , Thermal analysis , Chemistry, Analytic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DSc
- Identifier: vital:4529 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015762
- Description: I have chosen the title for this thesis, "Reactions in the Solid State", for two reasons: Firstly, it is broad enough to cover all of my areas of research, which have been: • Effects of irradiation on solids (PhD topic) • Silver refining (while at the Chamber of Mines) • Kinetics of decomposition of solids (with Dr A.K. Galwey and various others) • Techniques of thermal analysis • Pyrotechnic delay systems (with support from AECI Explosives) • Thermal and photostability of drugs (with Prof B.D. Glass) and, secondly, it was the title of the very successful book co-authored by Drs Andrew Galwey, David Dollimore and me. A large part of my research has been involved in the writing and editing of books, so these are covered in a separate commentary, while commentary on the more than 100 papers to which I have contributed forms the main part of this compilation. It is hoped that the electronic format will enable ready access of to all aspects of my research, including electronic versions of the original papers. The reader will need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader to access these.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Pharmaceutical analysis and drug interaction studies : African potato (Hypoxis hemerocallidea)
- Purushothaman Nair, Vipin Devi Prasad
- Authors: Purushothaman Nair, Vipin Devi Prasad
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Potatoes -- Africa , Potatoes -- Therapeutic use , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment , HIV infections -- Drug therapy , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015802
- Description: In order for a medicinal product to produce a consistent and reliable therapeutic response, it is essential that the final composition of the product is invariable and that the active ingredient/s is/are present in appropriate, non-toxic amounts. However, due to the complexity involved in the standardization of natural products, quality control (QC) criteria and procedures for the registration and market approval of such products are conspicuously absent in most countries around the world. African Potato (AP) is of great medical interest and this particular plant has gained tremendous popularity following the endorsement by the South African Minister of Health as a remedy for HIV/ AIDS patients. Very little information has appeared in the literature to describe methods for the quantitative analysis of hypoxoside, an important component in AP. It has also been claimed that sterols and sterolins present in AP are responsible for its medicinal property but is yet to be proven scientifically. To-date, no QC methods have been reported for the simultaneous quantitative analysis of the combination, β- sitosterol (BSS)/ stigmasterol (STG)/ stigmastanol (STN), purported to be present in preparations containing AP. The effect of concomitant administration of AP and other herbal medicines on the safety and efficacy of conventional medicines has not yet been fully determined. Amongst the objectives of this study was to develop and validate quantitative analytical methods that are suitable for the assay and quality control of plant material, extracts and commercial formulations containing AP. Hypoxoside was isolated from AP and characterized for use as a reference standard for the quality control of AP products and a stability-indicating HPLC/ UV assay method for the quantitative determination of hypoxoside was developed. In addition, a quantitative capillary zone electrophoretic (CZE) method was developed to determine hypoxoside, specifically for its advantages over HPLC. A HPLC method was also developed and validated for the quantitative analysis of BSS, STG and STN in commercially available oral dosage forms containing AP material or extracts thereof. The antioxidant activity of an aqueous extract of lyophilized corms of AP along with hypoxoside and rooperol were investigated. In comparison with the AP extracts and also with hypoxoside, rooperol showed significant antioxidant activity. The capacity of AP, (extracts, formulations, hypoxoside and rooperol as well as sterols to inhibit in vitro metabolism of drug substrates by human cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes such as CYP 3A4, 3A5 and CYP19 were investigated. Samples were also assessed for their effect on drug transport proteins such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Various extracts of AP, AP formulations, stigmasterol and the norlignans, in particular the aglycone rooperol, exhibited inhibitory effects on CYP 3A4, 3A5 and CYP19 mediated metabolism.These results suggest that concurrent therapy with AP and other medicines, in particular antiretroviral drugs, can have important implications for safety and efficacy. Large discrepancies in marker content between AP products were found. Dissolution testing of AP products was investigated as a QC tool and the results also revealed inconsistencies between different AP products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Purushothaman Nair, Vipin Devi Prasad
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Potatoes -- Africa , Potatoes -- Therapeutic use , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment , HIV infections -- Drug therapy , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015802
- Description: In order for a medicinal product to produce a consistent and reliable therapeutic response, it is essential that the final composition of the product is invariable and that the active ingredient/s is/are present in appropriate, non-toxic amounts. However, due to the complexity involved in the standardization of natural products, quality control (QC) criteria and procedures for the registration and market approval of such products are conspicuously absent in most countries around the world. African Potato (AP) is of great medical interest and this particular plant has gained tremendous popularity following the endorsement by the South African Minister of Health as a remedy for HIV/ AIDS patients. Very little information has appeared in the literature to describe methods for the quantitative analysis of hypoxoside, an important component in AP. It has also been claimed that sterols and sterolins present in AP are responsible for its medicinal property but is yet to be proven scientifically. To-date, no QC methods have been reported for the simultaneous quantitative analysis of the combination, β- sitosterol (BSS)/ stigmasterol (STG)/ stigmastanol (STN), purported to be present in preparations containing AP. The effect of concomitant administration of AP and other herbal medicines on the safety and efficacy of conventional medicines has not yet been fully determined. Amongst the objectives of this study was to develop and validate quantitative analytical methods that are suitable for the assay and quality control of plant material, extracts and commercial formulations containing AP. Hypoxoside was isolated from AP and characterized for use as a reference standard for the quality control of AP products and a stability-indicating HPLC/ UV assay method for the quantitative determination of hypoxoside was developed. In addition, a quantitative capillary zone electrophoretic (CZE) method was developed to determine hypoxoside, specifically for its advantages over HPLC. A HPLC method was also developed and validated for the quantitative analysis of BSS, STG and STN in commercially available oral dosage forms containing AP material or extracts thereof. The antioxidant activity of an aqueous extract of lyophilized corms of AP along with hypoxoside and rooperol were investigated. In comparison with the AP extracts and also with hypoxoside, rooperol showed significant antioxidant activity. The capacity of AP, (extracts, formulations, hypoxoside and rooperol as well as sterols to inhibit in vitro metabolism of drug substrates by human cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes such as CYP 3A4, 3A5 and CYP19 were investigated. Samples were also assessed for their effect on drug transport proteins such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Various extracts of AP, AP formulations, stigmasterol and the norlignans, in particular the aglycone rooperol, exhibited inhibitory effects on CYP 3A4, 3A5 and CYP19 mediated metabolism.These results suggest that concurrent therapy with AP and other medicines, in particular antiretroviral drugs, can have important implications for safety and efficacy. Large discrepancies in marker content between AP products were found. Dissolution testing of AP products was investigated as a QC tool and the results also revealed inconsistencies between different AP products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Studies of equivalent fuzzy subgroups of finite abelian p-Groups of rank two and their subgroup lattices
- Authors: Ngcibi, Sakhile Leonard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Abelian groups Fuzzy sets Finite groups Group theory Polynomials
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5416 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005230
- Description: We determine the number and nature of distinct equivalence classes of fuzzy subgroups of finite Abelian p-group G of rank two under a natural equivalence relation on fuzzy subgroups. Our discussions embrace the necessary theory from groups with special emphasis on finite p-groups as a step towards the classification of crisp subgroups as well as maximal chains of subgroups. Unique naming of subgroup generators as discussed in this work facilitates counting of subgroups and chains of subgroups from subgroup lattices of the groups. We cover aspects of fuzzy theory including fuzzy (homo-) isomorphism together with operations on fuzzy subgroups. The equivalence characterization as discussed here is finer than isomorphism. We introduce the theory of keychains with a view towards the enumeration of maximal chains as well as fuzzy subgroups under the equivalence relation mentioned above. We discuss a strategy to develop subgroup lattices of the groups used in the discussion, and give examples for specific cases of prime p and positive integers n,m. We derive formulas for both the number of maximal chains as well as the number of distinct equivalence classes of fuzzy subgroups. The results are in the form of polynomials in p (known in the literature as Hall polynomials) with combinatorial coefficients. Finally we give a brief investigation of the results from a graph-theoretic point of view. We view the subgroup lattices of these groups as simple, connected, symmetric graphs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ngcibi, Sakhile Leonard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Abelian groups Fuzzy sets Finite groups Group theory Polynomials
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5416 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005230
- Description: We determine the number and nature of distinct equivalence classes of fuzzy subgroups of finite Abelian p-group G of rank two under a natural equivalence relation on fuzzy subgroups. Our discussions embrace the necessary theory from groups with special emphasis on finite p-groups as a step towards the classification of crisp subgroups as well as maximal chains of subgroups. Unique naming of subgroup generators as discussed in this work facilitates counting of subgroups and chains of subgroups from subgroup lattices of the groups. We cover aspects of fuzzy theory including fuzzy (homo-) isomorphism together with operations on fuzzy subgroups. The equivalence characterization as discussed here is finer than isomorphism. We introduce the theory of keychains with a view towards the enumeration of maximal chains as well as fuzzy subgroups under the equivalence relation mentioned above. We discuss a strategy to develop subgroup lattices of the groups used in the discussion, and give examples for specific cases of prime p and positive integers n,m. We derive formulas for both the number of maximal chains as well as the number of distinct equivalence classes of fuzzy subgroups. The results are in the form of polynomials in p (known in the literature as Hall polynomials) with combinatorial coefficients. Finally we give a brief investigation of the results from a graph-theoretic point of view. We view the subgroup lattices of these groups as simple, connected, symmetric graphs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The significance of the local trade in natural resource products for livelihoods and poverty alleviation in South Africa
- Authors: Shackleton, Sheona E
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa Rural poor -- South Africa Natural resources -- South Africa Selling -- Handicraft South Africa -- Commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011731
- Description: What role can the commercialisation of natural resource products play in the efforts to reduce poverty and vulnerability and how can this be enhanced? With poverty alleviation at the top of the global development agenda, this is a question posed by many scholars, practitioners, donor agencies and government departments operating at the environment-development interface. However, recent commentary on this issue is mixed and ambiguous, with some observers being quite optimistic regarding the potential of these products, while others hold a counter view. This thesis explores the livelihood contributions and poverty alleviation potential of four products traded locally in the Bushbuckridge municipality, South Africa; namely traditional brooms, reed mats, woodcraft and a beer made from the fruits of Sclerocarya birrea. A common approach, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods, was used to investigate the harvesting, processing and marketing arrangements, sustainability and livelihood contributions of each product. The results illustrate that any inference regarding the potential of the trade to alleviate poverty depends on how poverty is defined and interpreted, and on whether the role of these products is assessed from a holistic livelihood perspective that includes notions of vulnerability, alternatives and choice, diversification and the needs of rural producers themselves. Overall, the products studied were key in enhancing the livelihood security of the poorest members of society, forming an important safety net and assisting in raising household incomes to levels equivalent to the wider population, but generally were unlikely, on their own, to provide a route out of poverty. However, there were notable exceptions, with marked variation evident both within and across products. Incomes often surpassed local wage rates, and a minority of producers were obtaining returns equivalent to or greater than the official minimum wage. Other benefits, such as the opportunity to work from home or to diversify the livelihood portfolio, were also crucial, with the trade representing different livelihood strategies for different households. When viewed within the context of rising unemployment and HIV/AIDS these findings assume greater significance. While the trades were complex and growth limited, livelihood benefits could be improved on a sustainable basis if the sector was given the attention and support it deserves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Shackleton, Sheona E
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa Rural poor -- South Africa Natural resources -- South Africa Selling -- Handicraft South Africa -- Commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011731
- Description: What role can the commercialisation of natural resource products play in the efforts to reduce poverty and vulnerability and how can this be enhanced? With poverty alleviation at the top of the global development agenda, this is a question posed by many scholars, practitioners, donor agencies and government departments operating at the environment-development interface. However, recent commentary on this issue is mixed and ambiguous, with some observers being quite optimistic regarding the potential of these products, while others hold a counter view. This thesis explores the livelihood contributions and poverty alleviation potential of four products traded locally in the Bushbuckridge municipality, South Africa; namely traditional brooms, reed mats, woodcraft and a beer made from the fruits of Sclerocarya birrea. A common approach, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods, was used to investigate the harvesting, processing and marketing arrangements, sustainability and livelihood contributions of each product. The results illustrate that any inference regarding the potential of the trade to alleviate poverty depends on how poverty is defined and interpreted, and on whether the role of these products is assessed from a holistic livelihood perspective that includes notions of vulnerability, alternatives and choice, diversification and the needs of rural producers themselves. Overall, the products studied were key in enhancing the livelihood security of the poorest members of society, forming an important safety net and assisting in raising household incomes to levels equivalent to the wider population, but generally were unlikely, on their own, to provide a route out of poverty. However, there were notable exceptions, with marked variation evident both within and across products. Incomes often surpassed local wage rates, and a minority of producers were obtaining returns equivalent to or greater than the official minimum wage. Other benefits, such as the opportunity to work from home or to diversify the livelihood portfolio, were also crucial, with the trade representing different livelihood strategies for different households. When viewed within the context of rising unemployment and HIV/AIDS these findings assume greater significance. While the trades were complex and growth limited, livelihood benefits could be improved on a sustainable basis if the sector was given the attention and support it deserves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The economic valuation of cultural events in developing countries: combining market and non-market valuation techniques at the South African National Arts Festival
- Authors: Snowball, Jeanette Dalziel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects , Performing arts festivals -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Arts -- South Africa -- Economic aspects , Finance -- South Africa , Arts -- South Africa -- Finance , Arts -- South Africa -- Political aspects , Finance, Public -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:969 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002703 , Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects , Performing arts festivals -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Arts -- South Africa -- Economic aspects , Finance -- South Africa , Arts -- South Africa -- Finance , Arts -- South Africa -- Political aspects , Finance, Public -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Description: The arts in many countries, but particularly in developing ones, are coming under increasing financial pressure and finding it difficult to justify the increases in government funding needed to maintain and grow the cultural sector. The trend in cultural economics, as well as in other areas, appears to be towards including qualitative valuations, as well as the more traditional quantitative ones. This thesis argues that the value of cultural events should include long term historical qualitative analysis, financial or economic impact and a valuation of the positive externalities provided by cultural events and that any one of these should only be regarded as a partial analysis. Four methods of valuing the arts using the South African National Arts Festival (NAF) as an example are demonstrated. Firstly, a qualitative historical analysis of the role of the NAF in South Africa’s transformation process from Apartheid to the democratic New South Africa is examined, using theories of cultural capital as a theoretical basis. It is argued that the value of cultural events needs to take into account long-term influences especially in countries undergoing political and social transformation. The second valuation method applied is the traditional economic impact study. Four economic impact studies conducted on the NAF are discussed and methodologies compared. It is concluded that, despite the skepticism of many cultural economists, the method can provide a useful partial valuation and may also be used for effective lobbying for government support of the arts. Chapter four discusses willingness to pay studies conducted at the NAF in 2000 and 2003 (as well as a pilot study conducted at the Klein Karoo Nationale Kunstefees). It is found that lower income and education groups do benefit from the positive externalities provided by the Festival and that this is reflected in their willingness to pay to support it. It is also argued that such contingent valuation studies can provide a reasonably reliable valuation of Festival externalities, but that they may be partly capturing current or future expected financial gains as well. Finally, the relatively new choice experiment methodology (also called conjoint analysis) is demonstrated on visitors to the NAF. The great advantage of this method in valuing cultural events is that it provides part-worths of various Festival attributes for different demographic groups. This enables organizes to structure the programme in such a way as to attract previously excluded groups and to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for each part of the Festival.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Snowball, Jeanette Dalziel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects , Performing arts festivals -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Arts -- South Africa -- Economic aspects , Finance -- South Africa , Arts -- South Africa -- Finance , Arts -- South Africa -- Political aspects , Finance, Public -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:969 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002703 , Standard Bank National Arts Festival -- Economic aspects , Performing arts festivals -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Arts -- South Africa -- Economic aspects , Finance -- South Africa , Arts -- South Africa -- Finance , Arts -- South Africa -- Political aspects , Finance, Public -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Description: The arts in many countries, but particularly in developing ones, are coming under increasing financial pressure and finding it difficult to justify the increases in government funding needed to maintain and grow the cultural sector. The trend in cultural economics, as well as in other areas, appears to be towards including qualitative valuations, as well as the more traditional quantitative ones. This thesis argues that the value of cultural events should include long term historical qualitative analysis, financial or economic impact and a valuation of the positive externalities provided by cultural events and that any one of these should only be regarded as a partial analysis. Four methods of valuing the arts using the South African National Arts Festival (NAF) as an example are demonstrated. Firstly, a qualitative historical analysis of the role of the NAF in South Africa’s transformation process from Apartheid to the democratic New South Africa is examined, using theories of cultural capital as a theoretical basis. It is argued that the value of cultural events needs to take into account long-term influences especially in countries undergoing political and social transformation. The second valuation method applied is the traditional economic impact study. Four economic impact studies conducted on the NAF are discussed and methodologies compared. It is concluded that, despite the skepticism of many cultural economists, the method can provide a useful partial valuation and may also be used for effective lobbying for government support of the arts. Chapter four discusses willingness to pay studies conducted at the NAF in 2000 and 2003 (as well as a pilot study conducted at the Klein Karoo Nationale Kunstefees). It is found that lower income and education groups do benefit from the positive externalities provided by the Festival and that this is reflected in their willingness to pay to support it. It is also argued that such contingent valuation studies can provide a reasonably reliable valuation of Festival externalities, but that they may be partly capturing current or future expected financial gains as well. Finally, the relatively new choice experiment methodology (also called conjoint analysis) is demonstrated on visitors to the NAF. The great advantage of this method in valuing cultural events is that it provides part-worths of various Festival attributes for different demographic groups. This enables organizes to structure the programme in such a way as to attract previously excluded groups and to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for each part of the Festival.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006