Relationship between employee performance, leadership and emotional intelligence in a South African parastatal organisation
- Authors: Hayward, Brett Anthony
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Employees -- Rating of , Leadership , Leadership -- Psychological aspects , Emotional intelligence , Government business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1019740
- Description: This research investigates the relationship between employee performance, leadership and emotional intelligence in a South African parastatal. The literature provided discusses the three variables of performance, leadership and emotional intelligence. Information was gathered, using three instruments, from a sample of 160 leaders and 800 raters. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire was used to determine leadership style within the parastatal, while the Emotional Competency Profiler was used to determine the emotional intelligence of the leaders within the parastatal. Employee performance was captured and recorded using the parastatal’s performance appraisal process. Leadership and emotional intelligence were identified as the independent variables and employee performance as the dependent variable. Data obtained from each of the research instruments was then statistically analysed. Through linear regression analysis it was concluded that there is a significant relationship between employee performance and an emotionally intelligent, transactional leader. However, no significant linear relationship was found between employee performance and an emotionally intelligent, transformational leader. Simple correlation analysis showed that there is a relatively weak significant linear relationship between emotional intelligence and transactional leadership. Moreover, it was found that there is a very strong significant linear relationship between emotional intelligence and transformational leadership. This research therefore adds a new dimension to employee performance, leadership and emotional intelligence, since no similar study has been conducted. As this research takes place in the South African context, it contributes to the bank of findings relating to the concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Hayward, Brett Anthony
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Employees -- Rating of , Leadership , Leadership -- Psychological aspects , Emotional intelligence , Government business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1019740
- Description: This research investigates the relationship between employee performance, leadership and emotional intelligence in a South African parastatal. The literature provided discusses the three variables of performance, leadership and emotional intelligence. Information was gathered, using three instruments, from a sample of 160 leaders and 800 raters. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire was used to determine leadership style within the parastatal, while the Emotional Competency Profiler was used to determine the emotional intelligence of the leaders within the parastatal. Employee performance was captured and recorded using the parastatal’s performance appraisal process. Leadership and emotional intelligence were identified as the independent variables and employee performance as the dependent variable. Data obtained from each of the research instruments was then statistically analysed. Through linear regression analysis it was concluded that there is a significant relationship between employee performance and an emotionally intelligent, transactional leader. However, no significant linear relationship was found between employee performance and an emotionally intelligent, transformational leader. Simple correlation analysis showed that there is a relatively weak significant linear relationship between emotional intelligence and transactional leadership. Moreover, it was found that there is a very strong significant linear relationship between emotional intelligence and transformational leadership. This research therefore adds a new dimension to employee performance, leadership and emotional intelligence, since no similar study has been conducted. As this research takes place in the South African context, it contributes to the bank of findings relating to the concepts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Composition portfolio
- Authors: Wynne, Donovan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music) String quartets -- Scores
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003121
- Description: Introductory remarks: Being a middle-class white South African, I grew up on a diet of predominantly "white" music: rock, pop and Western classical music. I was later introduced to a broader range of musics: blues, jazz, kwaito and traditional Southern African idioms. I found myself particularly attracted to the traditional music of the amaXhosa (especially that of the uhadi bow), possibly due to the fact that this music is hexatonic (that is, based on two major triads whose tonics are one tone apart), a system that bears certain resemblances to the Western tonal idiom. However, much of my musical experience tended to be entrenched in the piano and flute music I played: mostly works by composers who were neatly ensconced in the traditional Western canon. Therefore, despite the broad range of musics with which I was familiarisedduring my tertiary studies, I feel that this early experiential background is the reason I feel most comfortable with Western-influenced music. More recently, I discovered a whole new genre to explore: film music, particularly the work of Elliot Goldenthal, Danny Elfman, John Williams and Philip Glass, whose unique brand of minimalism has extended from the concert hall to thefilm theatre. I am fascinated by the ways in which film scores function. A "main titles" theme usually appears as the film opens, upon which most of the subsequent music is based. This is not a linear process, like a theme and its variations, but a lateral, where the main titles theme is the core that engenders other themes that all share a familial resemblance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wynne, Donovan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Music -- South Africa Composition (Music) String quartets -- Scores
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:2658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003121
- Description: Introductory remarks: Being a middle-class white South African, I grew up on a diet of predominantly "white" music: rock, pop and Western classical music. I was later introduced to a broader range of musics: blues, jazz, kwaito and traditional Southern African idioms. I found myself particularly attracted to the traditional music of the amaXhosa (especially that of the uhadi bow), possibly due to the fact that this music is hexatonic (that is, based on two major triads whose tonics are one tone apart), a system that bears certain resemblances to the Western tonal idiom. However, much of my musical experience tended to be entrenched in the piano and flute music I played: mostly works by composers who were neatly ensconced in the traditional Western canon. Therefore, despite the broad range of musics with which I was familiarisedduring my tertiary studies, I feel that this early experiential background is the reason I feel most comfortable with Western-influenced music. More recently, I discovered a whole new genre to explore: film music, particularly the work of Elliot Goldenthal, Danny Elfman, John Williams and Philip Glass, whose unique brand of minimalism has extended from the concert hall to thefilm theatre. I am fascinated by the ways in which film scores function. A "main titles" theme usually appears as the film opens, upon which most of the subsequent music is based. This is not a linear process, like a theme and its variations, but a lateral, where the main titles theme is the core that engenders other themes that all share a familial resemblance.
- 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
Diasporic consciousness and Bollywood : South African Indian youth and the meanings they make of Indian film
- Authors: Boshoff, Priscilla
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- India , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Motion picture industry -- India -- Mumbai
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3503 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006249 , Motion pictures -- India , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Motion picture industry -- India -- Mumbai
- Description: A particular youth identity in the South African Indian diaspora is being forged in a nexus o flocal and global forces . The globalisation of Bollywood and its popularity as a global media and the international commodification of the Indian exotic have occurred at the same time as the valorisation of 'difference' in the local political landscape. Indian youth, as young members of the South African Indian diaspora, are inheritors both of a conservative - yet adaptable - home culture and the marginalised identities of apartheid. However, the tensions between their desire to be recognised as both 'modern' South Africans and as ' traditional ' Indians create a space in which they are able to (re)create for themselves an identity that can encompass both their home cultures and the desires of a Westernised modernity through the tropes of Bollywood. Bollywood speaks to its diasporic audiences through representations of an idealised 'traditional yet modern' India. Although India is not a place of return for this young generation, Bollywood representations of successful diasporic Indian culture and participation in the globalised Bollywood industry through concerts and international award ceremonies has provided an opportunity for young Indians in South Africa to re-examine their local Indian identities and feel invited to re-identify with the global diasporas of India.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Boshoff, Priscilla
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- India , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Motion picture industry -- India -- Mumbai
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3503 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006249 , Motion pictures -- India , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Motion picture industry -- India -- Mumbai
- Description: A particular youth identity in the South African Indian diaspora is being forged in a nexus o flocal and global forces . The globalisation of Bollywood and its popularity as a global media and the international commodification of the Indian exotic have occurred at the same time as the valorisation of 'difference' in the local political landscape. Indian youth, as young members of the South African Indian diaspora, are inheritors both of a conservative - yet adaptable - home culture and the marginalised identities of apartheid. However, the tensions between their desire to be recognised as both 'modern' South Africans and as ' traditional ' Indians create a space in which they are able to (re)create for themselves an identity that can encompass both their home cultures and the desires of a Westernised modernity through the tropes of Bollywood. Bollywood speaks to its diasporic audiences through representations of an idealised 'traditional yet modern' India. Although India is not a place of return for this young generation, Bollywood representations of successful diasporic Indian culture and participation in the globalised Bollywood industry through concerts and international award ceremonies has provided an opportunity for young Indians in South Africa to re-examine their local Indian identities and feel invited to re-identify with the global diasporas of India.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Communication strategies in management: a case study of interpersonal manager-staff communication at a South African university
- Authors: Balarin, Megan Georgina
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Communication in management -- South Africa Interpersonal communication -- South Africa Communication -- Education College personnel management -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1452 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003333
- Description: Communication is a central feature of human life. The ability to talk is the very feature that distinguishes us from our primate ancestors. Knowing how to use language effectively gives the bearers of this knowledge power over their environment and an upper hand in their dealings with others. Thus, understanding the importance of communication in management is an essential tool for managers who wish to build and develop their organisations and their staff within these organisations. This thesis takes a case study view of manager-staff communication at a South African university. In this study managers and staff members contribute their feelings on current communication practices at this organisation through an online questionnaire and in-depth interviews. In an interpretive paradigm this thesis answers three central questions: 1) what role do managers and staff think communication plays in their working relationships, 2) what do they perceive to be effective and ineffective communication strategies and 3) What strategies can they suggest to enhance effective communication? Through in-depth qualitative research and numerical data analysis this thesis discovers central themes that pertain to the effective flow of communication in this organisation. These themes include: motivation and praise, the role of listening, building relationships, respect, acknowledging others’ languages and cultures, building teams, communicating frequently and using email and technology effectively, as well as keeping notes of meetings and discussions. Challenges to effective communication include not having enough time, suffering from stress, and the challenges of physical space and distance. By paying attention to basic human principles, such as the fact that acknowledging people for a job well done encourages them to perform well in future, this thesis relates the general concepts of communication and management theory to the specific realities and individual, personal experiences of manager-staff communication. In this way it sheds a beam of light on management communication practices and points the way towards an ideal where managers and staff members use communication as a tool of empowerment and understanding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Balarin, Megan Georgina
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Communication in management -- South Africa Interpersonal communication -- South Africa Communication -- Education College personnel management -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1452 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003333
- Description: Communication is a central feature of human life. The ability to talk is the very feature that distinguishes us from our primate ancestors. Knowing how to use language effectively gives the bearers of this knowledge power over their environment and an upper hand in their dealings with others. Thus, understanding the importance of communication in management is an essential tool for managers who wish to build and develop their organisations and their staff within these organisations. This thesis takes a case study view of manager-staff communication at a South African university. In this study managers and staff members contribute their feelings on current communication practices at this organisation through an online questionnaire and in-depth interviews. In an interpretive paradigm this thesis answers three central questions: 1) what role do managers and staff think communication plays in their working relationships, 2) what do they perceive to be effective and ineffective communication strategies and 3) What strategies can they suggest to enhance effective communication? Through in-depth qualitative research and numerical data analysis this thesis discovers central themes that pertain to the effective flow of communication in this organisation. These themes include: motivation and praise, the role of listening, building relationships, respect, acknowledging others’ languages and cultures, building teams, communicating frequently and using email and technology effectively, as well as keeping notes of meetings and discussions. Challenges to effective communication include not having enough time, suffering from stress, and the challenges of physical space and distance. By paying attention to basic human principles, such as the fact that acknowledging people for a job well done encourages them to perform well in future, this thesis relates the general concepts of communication and management theory to the specific realities and individual, personal experiences of manager-staff communication. In this way it sheds a beam of light on management communication practices and points the way towards an ideal where managers and staff members use communication as a tool of empowerment and understanding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Biomonitoring in two contrasting catchments
- Authors: Maseti, Pumza Penelope
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa , Rivers -- South Africa , Freshwater fishes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006175 , Water quality biological assessment -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa , Rivers -- South Africa , Freshwater fishes -- South Africa
- Description: The introduction of instream biological monitoring to water resources management has been an increasing trend world-wide. This monitoring uses biological field assessments of instream biota such as macroinvertebrates, fish and riparian vegetation as an integrated and sensitive tool for diagnosing the condition of the ecosystems and assessing ecological impacts. Biomonitoring information has become an important component in the overall assessment of water resources and is used to drive and direct processes of decision-making and management of water resources. The River Health Programme (RHP) was initiated in South Africa to serve as a source of information regarding the ecological status of river systems, in order to support rational management of these natural resources. In this study, biomonitoring indices (SASS5 and FAII) were used to assess the present ecological status of two rivers located in contrasting catchments of the Eastern Cape. The first river is the Buffalo River located in an urban and industrialized catchment. The second river is the Inxu River draining a rural and afforested catchment. SASS5 was used successfully in both rivers and the results based on water quality and SASS5 indicated that most sites selected on the upper catchment of the Buffalo River have a fair water quality with most sites selected on the lower catchment having a poor water quality. The Inxu River sites (both upper and lower catchment) based on SASS5 and water quality results have a good to fair water quality. The majority of sites sampled on both rivers systems had very low FAII scores and fell within a critically modified water quality category. This result may be due to the fact that these rivers have low fish diversities (either low natural diversity or low diversity due to the presence of alien fish species), poor water quality or inadequate sampling methods. Observations from this study suggest that this index may not be suitable for rivers with low fish diversity. A fish index that is usable to all ecoregions of South Africa with minor adaptations to suit local conditions is still needed, as the present FAII index does not meet these requirements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Maseti, Pumza Penelope
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa , Rivers -- South Africa , Freshwater fishes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006175 , Water quality biological assessment -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa , Rivers -- South Africa , Freshwater fishes -- South Africa
- Description: The introduction of instream biological monitoring to water resources management has been an increasing trend world-wide. This monitoring uses biological field assessments of instream biota such as macroinvertebrates, fish and riparian vegetation as an integrated and sensitive tool for diagnosing the condition of the ecosystems and assessing ecological impacts. Biomonitoring information has become an important component in the overall assessment of water resources and is used to drive and direct processes of decision-making and management of water resources. The River Health Programme (RHP) was initiated in South Africa to serve as a source of information regarding the ecological status of river systems, in order to support rational management of these natural resources. In this study, biomonitoring indices (SASS5 and FAII) were used to assess the present ecological status of two rivers located in contrasting catchments of the Eastern Cape. The first river is the Buffalo River located in an urban and industrialized catchment. The second river is the Inxu River draining a rural and afforested catchment. SASS5 was used successfully in both rivers and the results based on water quality and SASS5 indicated that most sites selected on the upper catchment of the Buffalo River have a fair water quality with most sites selected on the lower catchment having a poor water quality. The Inxu River sites (both upper and lower catchment) based on SASS5 and water quality results have a good to fair water quality. The majority of sites sampled on both rivers systems had very low FAII scores and fell within a critically modified water quality category. This result may be due to the fact that these rivers have low fish diversities (either low natural diversity or low diversity due to the presence of alien fish species), poor water quality or inadequate sampling methods. Observations from this study suggest that this index may not be suitable for rivers with low fish diversity. A fish index that is usable to all ecoregions of South Africa with minor adaptations to suit local conditions is still needed, as the present FAII index does not meet these requirements.
- 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
Development and assessment of propranolol sustained release dosage forms separately and in combination with hydrochlorothiazide
- Authors: Chetty, Prakash
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3749 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003227
- Description: Hypertension is a chronic illness that is often undiagnosed and untreated leading to high mortality rates in South Africa. The use of diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and beta blockers such as propranolol has been advocated as first line therapy for the treatment of hypertension. The study and use of controlled release dosage forms for the treatment of various disease states has gained wide interest over the past two decades. The use of controlled release systems offers improved therapeutic efficiency over conventional immediate release dosage forms, the use of which at times have often led to poor patient adherence and decreased therapeutic efficiencies. The current research objective was to develop a sustained release multi-source product for propranolol such that once daily dosing would be achieved. In addition, the sustained release product was developed using Inderal® LA 80mg capsules as a reference product. In addition the development of a suitable immediate release hydrochlorothiazide tablet was undertaken to produce a combination dosage form. The use of two different technologies, namely direct compression and wet granulation were employed to develop the sustained release dosage form. The release of propranolol from these dosage forms was assessed using USP apparatus 1 with quantitation of the relevant dissolution samples using a validated high performance liquid chromatographic method. The release profiles from the prototype and subsequent products were subjected to model independent and model dependent analyses in order to compare them to the innovator product and to elucidate the mechanisms of drug release respectively. Dissolution test results reveal that dosage forms prepared from wet granulation showed better rate retardation and more appropriate release profiles than those prepared by direct compression techniques. The subsequent model independent and model dependent analysis show that a dosage form that is comparable to the innovator product has been developed, with drug release occurring by a diffusion type mechanism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Chetty, Prakash
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3749 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003227
- Description: Hypertension is a chronic illness that is often undiagnosed and untreated leading to high mortality rates in South Africa. The use of diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and beta blockers such as propranolol has been advocated as first line therapy for the treatment of hypertension. The study and use of controlled release dosage forms for the treatment of various disease states has gained wide interest over the past two decades. The use of controlled release systems offers improved therapeutic efficiency over conventional immediate release dosage forms, the use of which at times have often led to poor patient adherence and decreased therapeutic efficiencies. The current research objective was to develop a sustained release multi-source product for propranolol such that once daily dosing would be achieved. In addition, the sustained release product was developed using Inderal® LA 80mg capsules as a reference product. In addition the development of a suitable immediate release hydrochlorothiazide tablet was undertaken to produce a combination dosage form. The use of two different technologies, namely direct compression and wet granulation were employed to develop the sustained release dosage form. The release of propranolol from these dosage forms was assessed using USP apparatus 1 with quantitation of the relevant dissolution samples using a validated high performance liquid chromatographic method. The release profiles from the prototype and subsequent products were subjected to model independent and model dependent analyses in order to compare them to the innovator product and to elucidate the mechanisms of drug release respectively. Dissolution test results reveal that dosage forms prepared from wet granulation showed better rate retardation and more appropriate release profiles than those prepared by direct compression techniques. The subsequent model independent and model dependent analysis show that a dosage form that is comparable to the innovator product has been developed, with drug release occurring by a diffusion type mechanism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
From 'here and now' to there and then : the evaluation of the effectiveness of Ehlers and Clark's model for treating PTSD in a rape survivor
- Authors: Davidow, Amy
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa , Rape trauma syndrome -- Treatment -- South Africa , Psychotherapy -- South Africa , Cognitive therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2961 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002470 , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa , Rape trauma syndrome -- Treatment -- South Africa , Psychotherapy -- South Africa , Cognitive therapy
- Description: The purpose of this research is to document the response of a rape survivor to a treatment based on Ehlers and Clark's (2000) therapy model and to use the material to evaluate the effectiveness of this kind of therapy in the South African context. In so doing, the specific local cultural and contextual factors, which may affect the overall effectiveness of the treatment, will be highlighted and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Davidow, Amy
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa , Rape trauma syndrome -- Treatment -- South Africa , Psychotherapy -- South Africa , Cognitive therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2961 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002470 , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa , Rape trauma syndrome -- Treatment -- South Africa , Psychotherapy -- South Africa , Cognitive therapy
- Description: The purpose of this research is to document the response of a rape survivor to a treatment based on Ehlers and Clark's (2000) therapy model and to use the material to evaluate the effectiveness of this kind of therapy in the South African context. In so doing, the specific local cultural and contextual factors, which may affect the overall effectiveness of the treatment, will be highlighted and discussed.
- 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
The establishment of normative data on Xhosa-speaking high school learners using the ImPACT 3.0 programme
- Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Authors: Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002557 , Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Description: Concussion is a common form of brain injury, especially amongst sports players of all age groups. ImPACT is a valid and reliable measure of a variety of cognitive functions commonly affected by such injuries, which allows for objective return-to-play decision making (Iverson, Lovell, & Collins, 2003). However, studies show that the transfer of such tests from one ethnic group to another without appropriate standardization is highly problematic (Ardila, 1995). Thus, the relative absence of South African normative data for the ImPACT 3.0 programme is an issue for concern. Consequently, this study aimed to establish norms for semi-rural Xhosa-speaking schoolboys with an advantaged education (ages 14, 16 and 18) for the ImPACT 3.0 programme as administered in English. Administrative and linguistic difficulties that were experienced by individuals during completion of the battery were also identified. Finally, the study included a comparison of the percentile scores of this sample to the USA norms for boys of a similar age group. Subtests scores were generated for 70 schoolboys and the data were then subjected to statistical analysis. A significant difference between English proficiency of the Grade 8 and Grade 12 boys was found. This indicates the importance of including an English proficiency test with the ImPACT battery when assessing such populations. No other significant differences were found between these age group samples. Although this requires further investigation, the comparison of the USA and SA percentiles suggests the use of local norms for this population. South African boys in this study consistently scored lower than the USA sample. Finally, it is recommended that symptom selfreports should be verbally investigated with each boy after testing, given indications of comprehension problems. In closing, limitations and future possible studies are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Salman-Godlo, Noluthando Cikizwa
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002557 , Brain -- Concussion -- South Africa , Sports -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sports injuries -- Psychological spects , Neuropsychological tests , ImPACT 3.0
- Description: Concussion is a common form of brain injury, especially amongst sports players of all age groups. ImPACT is a valid and reliable measure of a variety of cognitive functions commonly affected by such injuries, which allows for objective return-to-play decision making (Iverson, Lovell, & Collins, 2003). However, studies show that the transfer of such tests from one ethnic group to another without appropriate standardization is highly problematic (Ardila, 1995). Thus, the relative absence of South African normative data for the ImPACT 3.0 programme is an issue for concern. Consequently, this study aimed to establish norms for semi-rural Xhosa-speaking schoolboys with an advantaged education (ages 14, 16 and 18) for the ImPACT 3.0 programme as administered in English. Administrative and linguistic difficulties that were experienced by individuals during completion of the battery were also identified. Finally, the study included a comparison of the percentile scores of this sample to the USA norms for boys of a similar age group. Subtests scores were generated for 70 schoolboys and the data were then subjected to statistical analysis. A significant difference between English proficiency of the Grade 8 and Grade 12 boys was found. This indicates the importance of including an English proficiency test with the ImPACT battery when assessing such populations. No other significant differences were found between these age group samples. Although this requires further investigation, the comparison of the USA and SA percentiles suggests the use of local norms for this population. South African boys in this study consistently scored lower than the USA sample. Finally, it is recommended that symptom selfreports should be verbally investigated with each boy after testing, given indications of comprehension problems. In closing, limitations and future possible studies are discussed.
- 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
An investigation of the factors necessary in the development of a retention strategy for a financial organization
- Authors: Gouws, Erika
- Date: 2013-07-01
- Subjects: Employee retention Organizational change Personnel management Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation Employee motivation Incentives in industry Employee morale Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008198
- Description: rhe research study investigated the factors necessary for the development of an organizational retention ;trategy for a financial organization pertaining to key equity employees. Equity employees are those employees jescribed as such in the Employment Equity Act 55 of(1998). Bussin's (2002) Total Rewards Model was used as the theoretical framework for the study. The investigation was conducted within an interpretive paradigm and employed a qualitative methodology. Thematic analysis was used in the interpretation of the three data sources gained access through the data collection process. A previously completed employee relationship audit's findings, and the data derived from nine exit interviews formed the basis for the twenty-four semi-structured individual interviews, which were conducted with a sample ofthe employees. A purposive sampling technique enabled the identification of particular employees, who were the equity participants in the study. An additional component of the Total Rewards Model, namely Talent Management was identified from an analysis of the results. Six salient factors were highlighted in the investigation. The factors identified were: A need for a short-term incentive plan, which would provide recognition above and beyond an employee's monthly salary. The need for career development opportunities. The utilization of new skills from the training initiated by the organization. The representation of women and Black people in senior management positions. The need for formal performance support. The standardization of the recruitment process, the management of unrealistic or unattainable expectations and listening to employees' concerns. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gouws, Erika
- Date: 2013-07-01
- Subjects: Employee retention Organizational change Personnel management Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation Employee motivation Incentives in industry Employee morale Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008198
- Description: rhe research study investigated the factors necessary for the development of an organizational retention ;trategy for a financial organization pertaining to key equity employees. Equity employees are those employees jescribed as such in the Employment Equity Act 55 of(1998). Bussin's (2002) Total Rewards Model was used as the theoretical framework for the study. The investigation was conducted within an interpretive paradigm and employed a qualitative methodology. Thematic analysis was used in the interpretation of the three data sources gained access through the data collection process. A previously completed employee relationship audit's findings, and the data derived from nine exit interviews formed the basis for the twenty-four semi-structured individual interviews, which were conducted with a sample ofthe employees. A purposive sampling technique enabled the identification of particular employees, who were the equity participants in the study. An additional component of the Total Rewards Model, namely Talent Management was identified from an analysis of the results. Six salient factors were highlighted in the investigation. The factors identified were: A need for a short-term incentive plan, which would provide recognition above and beyond an employee's monthly salary. The need for career development opportunities. The utilization of new skills from the training initiated by the organization. The representation of women and Black people in senior management positions. The need for formal performance support. The standardization of the recruitment process, the management of unrealistic or unattainable expectations and listening to employees' concerns. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
Master of Education research portfolio
- Authors: Iitula, Helena
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Education -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Education and state -- Namibia Competency-based education -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia Education, Secondary -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008196
- Description: This Portfolio was submitted in 2005 to Rhodes University as a Research Portfolio presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education in General Education Theory and Practice. The Portfolio consists of seven (7) key parts. The reader of this Portfolio is courteously informed that the structure of this portfolio is to some extent differ from the thesis structure. Thus, the reader should be attentive not to weigh against the two. Further more, I hereby declare that this portfolio is my own work and that all the sources that I have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of references indicated at the end of each part. Part 2 and 6 are the core parts of the portfolio. The focal point of part 2 is the contextual curriculum analysis of Grade 8-10 Oshindonga Curriculum in order to investigate its implementation in four educational circuits: Oshigambo, Onathinge, Onyaanya and Omuthiya in Oshikoto Region. Based on the findings of this analysis, lack of critical inquiry and reflective practice among Oshindonga teachers was identified as one of the major obstacles that preventing the effective implementation of the curriculum. Most of these teachers are Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) postgraduates. Thus, part 3 and 4 were developed as supplements to inform the main research paper (part 6) which is related to teacher's professionalism in the classroom. The focus of part 3 (literature review) was on the teacher as a reflective practitioner. This is in line with the Namibian Education Policy, which identifies reflective practice as the heart of teacher professionalism. In this part, I explored a variety of views related to the notion of professionalism in teaching. I have also focused on views related to teacher's professional development both on macro and micro levels. These views provided a clarification and an underpinning framework on which to base my analysis of reflective practice as professionalism in education. Part 4 (education theories) focused on the digging of understanding of knowledge as an important theoretical domain of behaviourist and constructivist theories. I have tried to establish how the two theories (Behaviourist and Constructivist) view knowledge and its acquisition and to gain an understanding of how the two theories have been informing the practice. Subsequently, part 6 meant to investigate and assess the extent to which Basic Education Teacher Diploma postgraduate teachers are autonomously applying the theory of critical inquiry and reflective practice in the classroom. Both part 2 and 6 have findings. There is much correlation between the issues and problems in the implementation of the curriculum as identified in part 2 and the findings of the main research paper (part 6). Though critical inquiry and reflective practice is the key journey towards a high level of reflectivity and one of the significant characters of teacher professionalism in the classroom, most issues and problems identified were related to the insufficient practice of critical inquiry and reflective practices. Low correlation was found between critical inquiry and reflective practice theory and teachers' practices in the classroom. Despite to the fact that various rationales were mentioned as to why critical inquiry and reflective practice successful implementation is not taking place, the study positioned an emphasis on team working at school, cluster and circuit base that could contributed to a great extend to making teachers more competent and supporting themselves in mastering the applicable critical inquiry and reflective practice skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Iitula, Helena
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Education -- Namibia Curriculum planning -- Namibia Education and state -- Namibia Competency-based education -- Namibia Teachers -- Training of -- Namibia Education, Secondary -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008196
- Description: This Portfolio was submitted in 2005 to Rhodes University as a Research Portfolio presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education in General Education Theory and Practice. The Portfolio consists of seven (7) key parts. The reader of this Portfolio is courteously informed that the structure of this portfolio is to some extent differ from the thesis structure. Thus, the reader should be attentive not to weigh against the two. Further more, I hereby declare that this portfolio is my own work and that all the sources that I have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of references indicated at the end of each part. Part 2 and 6 are the core parts of the portfolio. The focal point of part 2 is the contextual curriculum analysis of Grade 8-10 Oshindonga Curriculum in order to investigate its implementation in four educational circuits: Oshigambo, Onathinge, Onyaanya and Omuthiya in Oshikoto Region. Based on the findings of this analysis, lack of critical inquiry and reflective practice among Oshindonga teachers was identified as one of the major obstacles that preventing the effective implementation of the curriculum. Most of these teachers are Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) postgraduates. Thus, part 3 and 4 were developed as supplements to inform the main research paper (part 6) which is related to teacher's professionalism in the classroom. The focus of part 3 (literature review) was on the teacher as a reflective practitioner. This is in line with the Namibian Education Policy, which identifies reflective practice as the heart of teacher professionalism. In this part, I explored a variety of views related to the notion of professionalism in teaching. I have also focused on views related to teacher's professional development both on macro and micro levels. These views provided a clarification and an underpinning framework on which to base my analysis of reflective practice as professionalism in education. Part 4 (education theories) focused on the digging of understanding of knowledge as an important theoretical domain of behaviourist and constructivist theories. I have tried to establish how the two theories (Behaviourist and Constructivist) view knowledge and its acquisition and to gain an understanding of how the two theories have been informing the practice. Subsequently, part 6 meant to investigate and assess the extent to which Basic Education Teacher Diploma postgraduate teachers are autonomously applying the theory of critical inquiry and reflective practice in the classroom. Both part 2 and 6 have findings. There is much correlation between the issues and problems in the implementation of the curriculum as identified in part 2 and the findings of the main research paper (part 6). Though critical inquiry and reflective practice is the key journey towards a high level of reflectivity and one of the significant characters of teacher professionalism in the classroom, most issues and problems identified were related to the insufficient practice of critical inquiry and reflective practices. Low correlation was found between critical inquiry and reflective practice theory and teachers' practices in the classroom. Despite to the fact that various rationales were mentioned as to why critical inquiry and reflective practice successful implementation is not taking place, the study positioned an emphasis on team working at school, cluster and circuit base that could contributed to a great extend to making teachers more competent and supporting themselves in mastering the applicable critical inquiry and reflective practice skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of integrated development planning (IDP) as a mechanism for poverty alleviation in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Alebiosu, Olumide Ademola
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005517 , Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty among individuals, households or communities is not a static condition. There are many factors which contribute to its causes and depth. In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race group. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantaged people. As part of its poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related services to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the Integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities. Relying on their developmental mandate to initiate and co-ordinate all development activities within their area of jurisdiction through the IDP, the Makana Municipality has drawn up a development strategic plan in conjunction with the local communities and with other stakeholders and organisations to identify and assess development backlogs within the communities with the aim of addressing such backlogs. This study revealed from the interviews conducted with some municipal personnel and questionnaires administered to sampled residents of Grahamstown that some faces of poverty, such as unemployment and lack of access to some of the most basic of infrastructure such as, sanitation facilities, water, electricity, formal house, education, security and recreation facilities are apparent in Grahamstown. However, the Makana Municipality through, the IDP has achieved some notable feats in the provision of providing some of the basic amenities such as water, housing, electricity and sanitation albeit at a slow rate. The mechanism of delivery is hampered by bureaucratic settings within government and the ambiguity attached to some of the projects. The service and infrastructural developments targeted towards the poor and the involvement of communities in the affairs of the local government might be seen as a partially panacea for poverty alleviation in South Africa. However the capacity of the local governments to effectively carry out this developmental challenge assignment might be a new twist in the developmental challenge facing local governments in South Africa. The thesis provides an overview of the Makana Municipality IDP and the degree to which is serving as one mechanism to address poverty in the Grahamstown urban area
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Alebiosu, Olumide Ademola
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005517 , Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty among individuals, households or communities is not a static condition. There are many factors which contribute to its causes and depth. In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race group. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantaged people. As part of its poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related services to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the Integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities. Relying on their developmental mandate to initiate and co-ordinate all development activities within their area of jurisdiction through the IDP, the Makana Municipality has drawn up a development strategic plan in conjunction with the local communities and with other stakeholders and organisations to identify and assess development backlogs within the communities with the aim of addressing such backlogs. This study revealed from the interviews conducted with some municipal personnel and questionnaires administered to sampled residents of Grahamstown that some faces of poverty, such as unemployment and lack of access to some of the most basic of infrastructure such as, sanitation facilities, water, electricity, formal house, education, security and recreation facilities are apparent in Grahamstown. However, the Makana Municipality through, the IDP has achieved some notable feats in the provision of providing some of the basic amenities such as water, housing, electricity and sanitation albeit at a slow rate. The mechanism of delivery is hampered by bureaucratic settings within government and the ambiguity attached to some of the projects. The service and infrastructural developments targeted towards the poor and the involvement of communities in the affairs of the local government might be seen as a partially panacea for poverty alleviation in South Africa. However the capacity of the local governments to effectively carry out this developmental challenge assignment might be a new twist in the developmental challenge facing local governments in South Africa. The thesis provides an overview of the Makana Municipality IDP and the degree to which is serving as one mechanism to address poverty in the Grahamstown urban area
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Non-interactive modeling tools and support environment for procedural geometry generation
- Authors: Morkel, Chantelle
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer graphics -- Mathematical models , Three-dimensional display systems , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4644 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006589 , Computer graphics -- Mathematical models , Three-dimensional display systems , Computer simulation
- Description: This research examines procedural modeling in the eld of computer graphics. Procedural modeling automates the generation of objects by representing models as procedures that provide a description of the process required to create the model. The problem we solve with this research is the creation of a procedural modeling environment that consists of a procedural modeling language and a set of non-interactive modeling tools. A goal of this research is to provide comparisons between 3D manual modeling and procedural modeling, which focus on the modeling strategies, tools and model representations used by each modeling paradigm. A procedural modeling language is presented that has the same facilities and features of existing procedural modeling languages. In addition, features such as caching and a pseudorandom number generator is included, demonstrating the advantages of a procedural modeling paradigm. The non-interactive tools created within the procedural modeling framework are selection, extrusion, subdivision, curve shaping and stitching. In order to demonstrate the usefulness of the procedural modeling framework, human and furniture models are created using this procedural modeling environment. Various techniques are presented to generate these objects, and may be used to create a variety of other models. A detailed discussion of each technique is provided. Six experiments are conducted to test the support of the procedural modeling benets provided by this non- interactive modeling environment. The experiments test, namely parameterisation, re-usability, base-shape independence, model complexity, the generation of reproducible random numbers and caching. We prove that a number of distinct models can be generated from a single procedure through the use parameterisation. Modeling procedures and sub-procedures are re-usable and can be applied to different models. Procedures can be base-shape independent. The level of complexity of a model can be increased by repeatedly applying geometry to the model. The pseudo-random number generator is capable of generating reproducible random numbers. The caching facility reduces the time required to generate a model that uses repetitive geometry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Morkel, Chantelle
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer graphics -- Mathematical models , Three-dimensional display systems , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4644 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006589 , Computer graphics -- Mathematical models , Three-dimensional display systems , Computer simulation
- Description: This research examines procedural modeling in the eld of computer graphics. Procedural modeling automates the generation of objects by representing models as procedures that provide a description of the process required to create the model. The problem we solve with this research is the creation of a procedural modeling environment that consists of a procedural modeling language and a set of non-interactive modeling tools. A goal of this research is to provide comparisons between 3D manual modeling and procedural modeling, which focus on the modeling strategies, tools and model representations used by each modeling paradigm. A procedural modeling language is presented that has the same facilities and features of existing procedural modeling languages. In addition, features such as caching and a pseudorandom number generator is included, demonstrating the advantages of a procedural modeling paradigm. The non-interactive tools created within the procedural modeling framework are selection, extrusion, subdivision, curve shaping and stitching. In order to demonstrate the usefulness of the procedural modeling framework, human and furniture models are created using this procedural modeling environment. Various techniques are presented to generate these objects, and may be used to create a variety of other models. A detailed discussion of each technique is provided. Six experiments are conducted to test the support of the procedural modeling benets provided by this non- interactive modeling environment. The experiments test, namely parameterisation, re-usability, base-shape independence, model complexity, the generation of reproducible random numbers and caching. We prove that a number of distinct models can be generated from a single procedure through the use parameterisation. Modeling procedures and sub-procedures are re-usable and can be applied to different models. Procedures can be base-shape independent. The level of complexity of a model can be increased by repeatedly applying geometry to the model. The pseudo-random number generator is capable of generating reproducible random numbers. The caching facility reduces the time required to generate a model that uses repetitive geometry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Investigating a rural community's use of communication technology: a study of Nakaseke Community Multi-media centre in Uganda
- Authors: Tumusiime, James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Information technology -- Uganda , Media programs (Education) -- Uganda , Communication in rural development -- Uganda , Communication -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Telecommuting centres -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002944 , Information technology -- Uganda , Media programs (Education) -- Uganda , Communication in rural development -- Uganda , Communication -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Telecommuting centres -- Uganda
- Description: An assumption that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and economic development have an automatic linkage has gained wide acceptance over the last decade. As a result, developing countries are under pressure to apply this prescription as a solution to poverty. With the help of development partners in the developed world and the United Nations, developing countries have embraced this call to increase access to ICTs to bridge the ever-widening gap between the ‘information rich’ and ‘information poor’ (Castells, 2001). One of the strategies has been the establishment of telecentres where the least privileged people might access ICTs for their own development needs. However, this strategy has tended to overlook contextual factors and circumstances in developing countries. ICTs are thus being introduced in an environment of mass poverty, illiteracy and poor infrastructure, exacerbating existing inequalities in some cases. Much attention has been focussed on initiatives aimed at expanding the ICT infrastructure for wider population access without addressing what the users actually do with such access. This study aims to make a contribution in that direction. The study focuses on Nakaseke Community Multi-media Centre(CMC), the first telecentre introduced in Uganda in 1997. Using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research techniques, the study sets out to develop deeper insights into how the Nakaseke community uses, engages with and relates with communication technologies installed at the telecentre. It probes whether these practices advance the dominant view that ICTs are a panacea for rural development. The findings indicate that while access to communication technology has expanded, albeit at a slow pace, the benefits might take very long to have a significant effect as many targeted users do not make use of the facilities because they lack the human skills and financial resources to exploit the technologies. Other problems such as poor electricity supply and sustainability also actively militate against the potential of the project to deliver. Besides, people tend to appropriate technology in ways different from those intended by its promoters. As Burton (2002) explains through the concept of ‘affordances’ and ‘culture’, some users perceive technologies essentially as something that bestows the status of being modern or sophisticated on their community, rather than as a development tool. In conclusion, it is argued that if used for development, ICTs can indeed make a difference in the lives of rural people. However, besides investing in technology, there is need to invest more in empowering the people themselves with skills, particularly literacy, to enable them use ICTs productively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Tumusiime, James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Information technology -- Uganda , Media programs (Education) -- Uganda , Communication in rural development -- Uganda , Communication -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Telecommuting centres -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002944 , Information technology -- Uganda , Media programs (Education) -- Uganda , Communication in rural development -- Uganda , Communication -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Telecommuting centres -- Uganda
- Description: An assumption that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and economic development have an automatic linkage has gained wide acceptance over the last decade. As a result, developing countries are under pressure to apply this prescription as a solution to poverty. With the help of development partners in the developed world and the United Nations, developing countries have embraced this call to increase access to ICTs to bridge the ever-widening gap between the ‘information rich’ and ‘information poor’ (Castells, 2001). One of the strategies has been the establishment of telecentres where the least privileged people might access ICTs for their own development needs. However, this strategy has tended to overlook contextual factors and circumstances in developing countries. ICTs are thus being introduced in an environment of mass poverty, illiteracy and poor infrastructure, exacerbating existing inequalities in some cases. Much attention has been focussed on initiatives aimed at expanding the ICT infrastructure for wider population access without addressing what the users actually do with such access. This study aims to make a contribution in that direction. The study focuses on Nakaseke Community Multi-media Centre(CMC), the first telecentre introduced in Uganda in 1997. Using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research techniques, the study sets out to develop deeper insights into how the Nakaseke community uses, engages with and relates with communication technologies installed at the telecentre. It probes whether these practices advance the dominant view that ICTs are a panacea for rural development. The findings indicate that while access to communication technology has expanded, albeit at a slow pace, the benefits might take very long to have a significant effect as many targeted users do not make use of the facilities because they lack the human skills and financial resources to exploit the technologies. Other problems such as poor electricity supply and sustainability also actively militate against the potential of the project to deliver. Besides, people tend to appropriate technology in ways different from those intended by its promoters. As Burton (2002) explains through the concept of ‘affordances’ and ‘culture’, some users perceive technologies essentially as something that bestows the status of being modern or sophisticated on their community, rather than as a development tool. In conclusion, it is argued that if used for development, ICTs can indeed make a difference in the lives of rural people. However, besides investing in technology, there is need to invest more in empowering the people themselves with skills, particularly literacy, to enable them use ICTs productively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Monetary policy transmission in South Africa: the prime rate-demand for credit phase
- Authors: Lehobo, Limakatso
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020850
- Description: A voluminous literature attempts to explain the various channels of the monetary policy transmission mechanism through which central banks ultimately achieve price stability. However, most research focuses on interest rate pass-through and the demand for money phase, while there is limited research on the demand for credit. This study endeavours to contribute to the understanding of this neglected phase of monetary policy transmission by exploring the response of the real demand for bank credit by the private sector to changes in the real prime rate from 1990:1 to 2004:4 in South Africa. Firstly, the behaviour of the real prime rate in relation to the repo rate is explored using graphical analysis. The study observes that an increase in the repo rate causes an increase in the real prime rate, such that there is always a margin of three or four percentage points between the two rates. Secondly, using secondary data, the Johansen methodology is used to determine the relationship between the demand for bank credit and its determinants (GDP, inflation, real prime rate and real yield on government bonds). Two co-integrating relationships are found. The Gaussian errors from one co-integrating vector are used to model the Vector Error Correction Model, which provides the short-run dynamics and the long-run results, through the use of Eviews 5 software. The results of the study show that while all other variables are negatively related to the demand for bank credit in the long-run, GDP has a positive influence. In the short-run, yield on government bonds and inflation coefficients depict a positive association, while the coefficients of real prime rate and GDP are negative. The error correction coefficient is -0.32, which implies that a 32% adjustment to equilibrium happens in the demand for bank credit in a quarter and that the complete adjustment takes about three quarters to complete. Thirdly, the generalised impulse responses results indicate that the impact on the real prime rate affects the demand for bank credit from the first quarter. The study concludes that the real prime rate has a negative impact on the demand for credit both in the short-run and long-run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Lehobo, Limakatso
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020850
- Description: A voluminous literature attempts to explain the various channels of the monetary policy transmission mechanism through which central banks ultimately achieve price stability. However, most research focuses on interest rate pass-through and the demand for money phase, while there is limited research on the demand for credit. This study endeavours to contribute to the understanding of this neglected phase of monetary policy transmission by exploring the response of the real demand for bank credit by the private sector to changes in the real prime rate from 1990:1 to 2004:4 in South Africa. Firstly, the behaviour of the real prime rate in relation to the repo rate is explored using graphical analysis. The study observes that an increase in the repo rate causes an increase in the real prime rate, such that there is always a margin of three or four percentage points between the two rates. Secondly, using secondary data, the Johansen methodology is used to determine the relationship between the demand for bank credit and its determinants (GDP, inflation, real prime rate and real yield on government bonds). Two co-integrating relationships are found. The Gaussian errors from one co-integrating vector are used to model the Vector Error Correction Model, which provides the short-run dynamics and the long-run results, through the use of Eviews 5 software. The results of the study show that while all other variables are negatively related to the demand for bank credit in the long-run, GDP has a positive influence. In the short-run, yield on government bonds and inflation coefficients depict a positive association, while the coefficients of real prime rate and GDP are negative. The error correction coefficient is -0.32, which implies that a 32% adjustment to equilibrium happens in the demand for bank credit in a quarter and that the complete adjustment takes about three quarters to complete. Thirdly, the generalised impulse responses results indicate that the impact on the real prime rate affects the demand for bank credit from the first quarter. The study concludes that the real prime rate has a negative impact on the demand for credit both in the short-run and long-run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of a framework for the implementation of service management in the information and communication technology sector
- Authors: Benyon, Robert Victor
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1137 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002766 , Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Description: Service Management (SM) is an integrated, cyclical and collaborative approach to the management of service requirements and levels. It involves the definition of client expectations, the satisfying of those expectations and the perpetual refining of the business agreement (Sturm 2001). SM in the ICT sector is a comprehensive process that extends beyond the development of Service Agreements (SAs). A number of identifiable steps constitute the progressive implementation of a managed services environment, the key components of which are a readiness to provide services, the accurate elicitation, management and satisfying of client requirements and the continual improvements to the business relationship. Unfortunately, a number of SM initiatives fail. These failures can be attributed to a lack of SM understanding, the absence of a fully implemented SM strategy, poor communication and people issues. This research describes an investigation of SM implementation. A number of recognised frameworks are explored and critically analysed. The common strengths of these frameworks and the results of an exploratory pilot study are used to construct an SM implementation framework. This framework is then tested empirically by means of an online survey, and revised in the light of the results of this survey. The framework comprises two distinct phases, namely a Foundation phase and a Managed Services phase. The Foundation phase comprises 8 critical preparatory activities that take a service provider to state of readiness to provide and manage ICT services. The Managed Services phase comprises 5 key cyclical steps for the management of ICT services, including Planning, Analysis, Design, Implementation and Review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Benyon, Robert Victor
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1137 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002766 , Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Description: Service Management (SM) is an integrated, cyclical and collaborative approach to the management of service requirements and levels. It involves the definition of client expectations, the satisfying of those expectations and the perpetual refining of the business agreement (Sturm 2001). SM in the ICT sector is a comprehensive process that extends beyond the development of Service Agreements (SAs). A number of identifiable steps constitute the progressive implementation of a managed services environment, the key components of which are a readiness to provide services, the accurate elicitation, management and satisfying of client requirements and the continual improvements to the business relationship. Unfortunately, a number of SM initiatives fail. These failures can be attributed to a lack of SM understanding, the absence of a fully implemented SM strategy, poor communication and people issues. This research describes an investigation of SM implementation. A number of recognised frameworks are explored and critically analysed. The common strengths of these frameworks and the results of an exploratory pilot study are used to construct an SM implementation framework. This framework is then tested empirically by means of an online survey, and revised in the light of the results of this survey. The framework comprises two distinct phases, namely a Foundation phase and a Managed Services phase. The Foundation phase comprises 8 critical preparatory activities that take a service provider to state of readiness to provide and manage ICT services. The Managed Services phase comprises 5 key cyclical steps for the management of ICT services, including Planning, Analysis, Design, Implementation and Review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Substituted phthalocyanines development and self-assembled monolayer sensor studies
- Authors: Matemadombo, Fungisai
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Monomolecular films , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4364 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005029 , Phthalocyanines , Monomolecular films , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Description: Zinc, cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines have been synthesized and characterized. Cyclic and square wave voltammetry in dimethylformamide containing tetrabutylammonium perchlorate revealed five and six redox processes respectively for the cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines. These complexes are easier to reduce compared to the corresponding unsubstituted MPc and to butylthio substituted derivatives. Spectroelectrochemistry (in dimethylformamide containing tetrabutylammonium perchlorate) was employed to assign the cyclic voltammetry peaks, and gave spectra characteristic of Fe(I)Pc for reduction of iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanine and Co(I)Pc for the reduction of cobalt phenylthio substituted phthalocyanine. The spectrum of the former is particularly of importance since such species have not received much attention in literature. Cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines have been deposited on Au electrode surfaces through the self assembled monolayer (SAM) technique. The so formed layers were studied using voltammetric techniques. These SAMs blocked a number of Faradic processes and electrocatalyzed the oxidation of L-cysteine. Amine substituted cobalt phthalocyanine (CoTAPc) was deposited on gold surfaces by using an interconnecting SAM of mercaptopropionic acid or dithiobis(N-succinimidyl propionate) through the creation of an amide. Reductive and oxidative desorption of the SAMs limit the useful potential window. The SAM-CoTAPc layers show electrocatalytic activities towards oxygen reduction through the Co(I) central metal ion. Both SAMs were highly stable and hence will be interesting tools for further research in surface modification and sensor development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Matemadombo, Fungisai
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Monomolecular films , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4364 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005029 , Phthalocyanines , Monomolecular films , Electrochemistry , Spectrum analysis
- Description: Zinc, cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines have been synthesized and characterized. Cyclic and square wave voltammetry in dimethylformamide containing tetrabutylammonium perchlorate revealed five and six redox processes respectively for the cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines. These complexes are easier to reduce compared to the corresponding unsubstituted MPc and to butylthio substituted derivatives. Spectroelectrochemistry (in dimethylformamide containing tetrabutylammonium perchlorate) was employed to assign the cyclic voltammetry peaks, and gave spectra characteristic of Fe(I)Pc for reduction of iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanine and Co(I)Pc for the reduction of cobalt phenylthio substituted phthalocyanine. The spectrum of the former is particularly of importance since such species have not received much attention in literature. Cobalt and iron phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines have been deposited on Au electrode surfaces through the self assembled monolayer (SAM) technique. The so formed layers were studied using voltammetric techniques. These SAMs blocked a number of Faradic processes and electrocatalyzed the oxidation of L-cysteine. Amine substituted cobalt phthalocyanine (CoTAPc) was deposited on gold surfaces by using an interconnecting SAM of mercaptopropionic acid or dithiobis(N-succinimidyl propionate) through the creation of an amide. Reductive and oxidative desorption of the SAMs limit the useful potential window. The SAM-CoTAPc layers show electrocatalytic activities towards oxygen reduction through the Co(I) central metal ion. Both SAMs were highly stable and hence will be interesting tools for further research in surface modification and sensor development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006