"Form fading among fading forms" death, language and madness in the novels of Samuel Beckett
- Authors: Springer, Michael Leicester
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Beckett, Samuel, 1906-1989 -- Criticism and interpretation English fiction -- 20th century -- History and criticism Death in literature Mental illness in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002240
- Description: The primary thesis of this dissertation is that the development of narrative strategy and technique through the course of Samuel Beckett’s fictional oeuvre enacts a parody of the Cartesian method of doubt, in which the search for first principles, instead of providing grounds for certainty, is a hopeless, grotesque quest for a self which eludes any and every assertion. My chief concerns are thus, firstly, to explicate and elucidate the nature of such narrative strategies and techniques, and how these can be said to parody epistemological procedure; and secondly, to interrogate the implications of this parody for the epistemological and interpretative endeavour of which the human sciences are comprised. These two issues are explored by way of an examination of Beckett’s earliest novel, Murphy, and the narrative impasse that arises from the contradiction between this work’s largely realist form and quasi-postmodern content. I thereafter argue that the later fiction, most particularly the Trilogy, achieves formal and stylistic solutions to the aesthetic and epistemological challenges raised by the earlier work. Beckett’s fictional oeuvre, I contend, can best be construed as an attempt to attain that which exceeds and escapes narrative in and through narrative, namely madness or death. The achievement of either would entail the obliteration of the possibility of narrating at all, and the novels, engaging in a self-deconstructing endeavour, thus occupy a profoundly paradoxical position. Any attempt to interpret a body of work of this nature can only respond in an analogous manner, by trying to make meaning of the subversion of meaning, and deconstructing the assumptions that inform its procedures. This dissertation argues that it is precisely in the way in which it necessitates such selfreflexive discursive analysis that the import of Samuel Beckett’s fiction lies, and extrapolates the significance of this for an understanding of discourse, literary criticism, and epistemological procedure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Springer, Michael Leicester
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Beckett, Samuel, 1906-1989 -- Criticism and interpretation English fiction -- 20th century -- History and criticism Death in literature Mental illness in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002240
- Description: The primary thesis of this dissertation is that the development of narrative strategy and technique through the course of Samuel Beckett’s fictional oeuvre enacts a parody of the Cartesian method of doubt, in which the search for first principles, instead of providing grounds for certainty, is a hopeless, grotesque quest for a self which eludes any and every assertion. My chief concerns are thus, firstly, to explicate and elucidate the nature of such narrative strategies and techniques, and how these can be said to parody epistemological procedure; and secondly, to interrogate the implications of this parody for the epistemological and interpretative endeavour of which the human sciences are comprised. These two issues are explored by way of an examination of Beckett’s earliest novel, Murphy, and the narrative impasse that arises from the contradiction between this work’s largely realist form and quasi-postmodern content. I thereafter argue that the later fiction, most particularly the Trilogy, achieves formal and stylistic solutions to the aesthetic and epistemological challenges raised by the earlier work. Beckett’s fictional oeuvre, I contend, can best be construed as an attempt to attain that which exceeds and escapes narrative in and through narrative, namely madness or death. The achievement of either would entail the obliteration of the possibility of narrating at all, and the novels, engaging in a self-deconstructing endeavour, thus occupy a profoundly paradoxical position. Any attempt to interpret a body of work of this nature can only respond in an analogous manner, by trying to make meaning of the subversion of meaning, and deconstructing the assumptions that inform its procedures. This dissertation argues that it is precisely in the way in which it necessitates such selfreflexive discursive analysis that the import of Samuel Beckett’s fiction lies, and extrapolates the significance of this for an understanding of discourse, literary criticism, and epistemological procedure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
'The Most Amazing Show': performative interactions with postelection South African society and culture
- Authors: Scholtz, Brink
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Performing arts , Drama -- Study and teaching , Recreational activities
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57527 , vital:26963
- Description: This research investigates contemporary South African performance within the context of prominent social and cultural change following the political transition from an apartheid state to democracy. Specifically, it looks at the relationship between a popular comic variety show The Most Amazing Show (TMAS), and aspects of contemporary South African society and culture, particularly relating to prominent efforts to affect post-election transformation of South African society and culture through the construction of a South African 'rainbow nation'. By analysing TMAS in terms of broader historical, performative and discursive contexts, it engages a relational reading of the performance. The study argues that TMAS both challenges and participates in the manner in which rainbow nation discourse constructs South African society and culture. Firstly, it considers the performance's construction of hybrid South African identities, including white Afrikaans, white English and white masculine identities. It argues that these reconstructions undermine the tendency within rainbow nation discourse to construct cultural hybridity in terms of stereotypically distinct identities. Secondly, it considers TMAS' construction of collective experience and social integration, which subvet1s the often glamorised and superficial representations of social healing and integration that are constructed within rainbow nation discourse. The analysis makes prominent reference to the notion of 'liminality' in order to describe the manner in which TMAS constructs significance within the tension that it establishes between oppositional, and often contradictory, positions. Furthermore, it attempts to establish a link between this notion of liminality and no6ons of theatrical syncretism that are prominent in contemporary South African theatre scholarship, and emphasise processes of signification that are constantly shifting and unstable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Scholtz, Brink
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Performing arts , Drama -- Study and teaching , Recreational activities
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57527 , vital:26963
- Description: This research investigates contemporary South African performance within the context of prominent social and cultural change following the political transition from an apartheid state to democracy. Specifically, it looks at the relationship between a popular comic variety show The Most Amazing Show (TMAS), and aspects of contemporary South African society and culture, particularly relating to prominent efforts to affect post-election transformation of South African society and culture through the construction of a South African 'rainbow nation'. By analysing TMAS in terms of broader historical, performative and discursive contexts, it engages a relational reading of the performance. The study argues that TMAS both challenges and participates in the manner in which rainbow nation discourse constructs South African society and culture. Firstly, it considers the performance's construction of hybrid South African identities, including white Afrikaans, white English and white masculine identities. It argues that these reconstructions undermine the tendency within rainbow nation discourse to construct cultural hybridity in terms of stereotypically distinct identities. Secondly, it considers TMAS' construction of collective experience and social integration, which subvet1s the often glamorised and superficial representations of social healing and integration that are constructed within rainbow nation discourse. The analysis makes prominent reference to the notion of 'liminality' in order to describe the manner in which TMAS constructs significance within the tension that it establishes between oppositional, and often contradictory, positions. Furthermore, it attempts to establish a link between this notion of liminality and no6ons of theatrical syncretism that are prominent in contemporary South African theatre scholarship, and emphasise processes of signification that are constantly shifting and unstable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
'The Most Amazing Show': performative interactions with postelection South African society and culture
- Authors: Scholtz, Brink
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Performing arts , Drama -- Study and teaching , Recreational activities
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57538 , vital:26962
- Description: This research investigates contemporary South African performance within the context of prominent social and cultural change following the political transition from an apartheid state to democracy. Specifically, it looks at the relationship between a popular comic variety show The Most Amazing Show (TMAS), and aspects of contemporary South African society and culture, particularly relating to prominent efforts to affect post-election transformation of South African society and culture through the construction of a South African 'rainbow nation'. By analysing TMAS in terms of broader historical, performative and discursive contexts, it engages a relational reading of the performance. The study argues that TMAS both challenges and participates in the manner in which rainbow nation discourse constructs South African society and culture. Firstly, it considers the performance's construction of hybrid South African identities, including white Afrikaans, white English and white masculine identities. It argues that these reconstructions undermine the tendency within rainbow nation discourse to construct cultural hybridity in terms of stereotypically distinct identities. Secondly, it considers TMAS' construction of collective experience and social integration, which subvet1s the often glamorised and superficial representations of social healing and integration that are constructed within rainbow nation discourse. The analysis makes prominent reference to the notion of 'liminality' in order to describe the manner in which TMAS constructs significance within the tension that it establishes between oppositional, and often contradictory, positions. Furthermore, it attempts to establish a link between this notion of liminality and no6ons of theatrical syncretism that are prominent in contemporary South African theatre scholarship, and emphasise processes of signification that are constantly shifting and unstable.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Scholtz, Brink
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Performing arts , Drama -- Study and teaching , Recreational activities
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/57538 , vital:26962
- Description: This research investigates contemporary South African performance within the context of prominent social and cultural change following the political transition from an apartheid state to democracy. Specifically, it looks at the relationship between a popular comic variety show The Most Amazing Show (TMAS), and aspects of contemporary South African society and culture, particularly relating to prominent efforts to affect post-election transformation of South African society and culture through the construction of a South African 'rainbow nation'. By analysing TMAS in terms of broader historical, performative and discursive contexts, it engages a relational reading of the performance. The study argues that TMAS both challenges and participates in the manner in which rainbow nation discourse constructs South African society and culture. Firstly, it considers the performance's construction of hybrid South African identities, including white Afrikaans, white English and white masculine identities. It argues that these reconstructions undermine the tendency within rainbow nation discourse to construct cultural hybridity in terms of stereotypically distinct identities. Secondly, it considers TMAS' construction of collective experience and social integration, which subvet1s the often glamorised and superficial representations of social healing and integration that are constructed within rainbow nation discourse. The analysis makes prominent reference to the notion of 'liminality' in order to describe the manner in which TMAS constructs significance within the tension that it establishes between oppositional, and often contradictory, positions. Furthermore, it attempts to establish a link between this notion of liminality and no6ons of theatrical syncretism that are prominent in contemporary South African theatre scholarship, and emphasise processes of signification that are constantly shifting and unstable.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2008
A book history study of Michael Radford's filmic production William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice
- Green, Bryony Rose Humphries
- Authors: Green, Bryony Rose Humphries
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Film adaptations Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Merchant of Venice Merchant of Venice (Motion picture: 2004) English drama -- Film and video adaptations Film adaptations -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002239
- Description: Falling within the ambit of the Department of English Literature but with interdisciplinary scope and method, the research undertaken in this thesis examines Michael Radford’s 2004 film production William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice using the Book History approach to textual study. Previously applied almost exclusively to the study of books, Book History examines the text in terms of both its medium and its content, bringing together bibliographical, literary and historical approaches to the study of books within one theoretical paradigm. My research extends this interdisciplinary approach into the filmic medium by using a modified version of Robert Darnton’s “communication circuit” to examine the process of transmission of this Shakespearean film adaptation from creation to reception. The research is not intended as a complete Book History study and even less as a comprehensive investigation of William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Rather, it uses a Shakespearean case study to bring together the two previously discrete fields of Book History and filmic investigation. Drawing on film studies, literary concepts, cultural and media studies, modern management theory as well as reception theories and with the use of both quantitative and qualitative data, I show Book History to be an eminently useful and constructive approach to the study of film.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Green, Bryony Rose Humphries
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Film adaptations Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Merchant of Venice Merchant of Venice (Motion picture: 2004) English drama -- Film and video adaptations Film adaptations -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002239
- Description: Falling within the ambit of the Department of English Literature but with interdisciplinary scope and method, the research undertaken in this thesis examines Michael Radford’s 2004 film production William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice using the Book History approach to textual study. Previously applied almost exclusively to the study of books, Book History examines the text in terms of both its medium and its content, bringing together bibliographical, literary and historical approaches to the study of books within one theoretical paradigm. My research extends this interdisciplinary approach into the filmic medium by using a modified version of Robert Darnton’s “communication circuit” to examine the process of transmission of this Shakespearean film adaptation from creation to reception. The research is not intended as a complete Book History study and even less as a comprehensive investigation of William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Rather, it uses a Shakespearean case study to bring together the two previously discrete fields of Book History and filmic investigation. Drawing on film studies, literary concepts, cultural and media studies, modern management theory as well as reception theories and with the use of both quantitative and qualitative data, I show Book History to be an eminently useful and constructive approach to the study of film.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A comparison of whole body vibration versus conventional training on leg strenght
- Authors: Nieuwoudt, Nadus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Leg -- Effect of vibration on , Exercise -- Physiological aspects , Muscle strength
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10093 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/907 , Leg -- Effect of vibration on , Exercise -- Physiological aspects , Muscle strength
- Description: Whole Body Vibration (WBV) training is a new addition to the field of Exercise and Sports Science and has been developed for the use in strength and conditioning exercises. With the introduction of this new mode of exercise, the study focused on comparing the strength gaining effect of WBV training versus conventional resistance training. The study was conducted in a descriptive, exploratory manner utilizing a quasi-experimental approach with a three group comparison pre-test-post-test design consisting of an experimental-, comparison- and control group. Convenience and snowball sampling were used to select 43 male and female healthy, sedentary volunteer participants. The research focused on reviewing the contribution that each mode of training offers to increase strength in the upper leg and underlines the important physiological adaptations that the human body undergoes to bring about an increase in muscle strength. Both the whole body vibration and land-based resistance groups trained three times a week over an eight week intervention period. Exercises were performed with progressive increments in the frequency, amplitude and duration for the WBV- and in workload, number of sets and repetitions for the conventional resistance training program. The control group remained sedentary throughout the duration of the study. The dependent variables of peak torque flexion and extension of the knee joint in both legs were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was done to determine intra-group differences. Post-hoc analysis in the form of Scheffé’s test was done to determine and compare inter-group differences. Practical significance was indicated by means of Partial eta2 The analysis of the results revealed significant strength increases in both conventional resistance training and WBV for most of the dependent variables, except for peak torque extension, where the WBV group did not increase significantly. Based on these results, it can be concluded that both modes of conventional resistance and whole body vibration increased selected dependent variables for upper leg strength in previously inactive individuals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Nieuwoudt, Nadus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Leg -- Effect of vibration on , Exercise -- Physiological aspects , Muscle strength
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10093 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/907 , Leg -- Effect of vibration on , Exercise -- Physiological aspects , Muscle strength
- Description: Whole Body Vibration (WBV) training is a new addition to the field of Exercise and Sports Science and has been developed for the use in strength and conditioning exercises. With the introduction of this new mode of exercise, the study focused on comparing the strength gaining effect of WBV training versus conventional resistance training. The study was conducted in a descriptive, exploratory manner utilizing a quasi-experimental approach with a three group comparison pre-test-post-test design consisting of an experimental-, comparison- and control group. Convenience and snowball sampling were used to select 43 male and female healthy, sedentary volunteer participants. The research focused on reviewing the contribution that each mode of training offers to increase strength in the upper leg and underlines the important physiological adaptations that the human body undergoes to bring about an increase in muscle strength. Both the whole body vibration and land-based resistance groups trained three times a week over an eight week intervention period. Exercises were performed with progressive increments in the frequency, amplitude and duration for the WBV- and in workload, number of sets and repetitions for the conventional resistance training program. The control group remained sedentary throughout the duration of the study. The dependent variables of peak torque flexion and extension of the knee joint in both legs were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was done to determine intra-group differences. Post-hoc analysis in the form of Scheffé’s test was done to determine and compare inter-group differences. Practical significance was indicated by means of Partial eta2 The analysis of the results revealed significant strength increases in both conventional resistance training and WBV for most of the dependent variables, except for peak torque extension, where the WBV group did not increase significantly. Based on these results, it can be concluded that both modes of conventional resistance and whole body vibration increased selected dependent variables for upper leg strength in previously inactive individuals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A comparison of WISC-IV test performance for Afrikaans, English and Xhosa speaking South African grade 7 learners
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Adele
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Intelligence tests -- South Africa Psychological tests -- Cross-cultural studies Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa Educational psychology -- South Africa Language and languages -- Ability testing Educational evaluation -- South Africa Education, Elementary -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3076 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002585
- Description: his study builds on South African cross-cultural research which demonstrated the importance of careful stratification of multicultural/multilingual normative samples for quality of education in respect of English and African language (predominantly Xhosa) speaking adults and children tested with the WAIS-III and WISC-IV, respectively. The aim of the present study was to produce an expanded set of preliminary comparative norms on the WISC-IV for white and coloured Afrikaans, white English and black Xhosa speaking Grade 7 children, aged 12 to 13 years, stratified for advantaged versus disadvantaged education. The results of this study replicate the findings of the prior South African cross-cultural studies in respect of quality of education, as groups with advantaged private/former Model C schooling outperformed those with disadvantaged former DET or HOR township schooling. Furthermore, a downward continuum of WISC-IV IQ test performance emerged as follows: 1) white English advantaged (high average), 2) white Afrikaans advantaged and black Xhosa advantaged (average), 3) coloured Afrikaans advantaged (below average), 4) black Xhosa disadvantaged (borderline), and 5) coloured Afrikaans disadvantaged (extremely low). The present study has demonstrated that while language and ethnic variables reveal subtle effects on IQ test performance, quality of education has the most significant effect – impacting significantly on verbal performance with this effect replicated in respect of the FSIQ. Therefore caution should be exercised in interpreting test results of individuals from different language/ethnic groups, and in particular those with disadvantaged schooling, as preliminary data suggest that these individuals achieve scores which are 20 – 35 points lower than the UK standardisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Adele
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Intelligence tests -- South Africa Psychological tests -- Cross-cultural studies Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa Educational psychology -- South Africa Language and languages -- Ability testing Educational evaluation -- South Africa Education, Elementary -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3076 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002585
- Description: his study builds on South African cross-cultural research which demonstrated the importance of careful stratification of multicultural/multilingual normative samples for quality of education in respect of English and African language (predominantly Xhosa) speaking adults and children tested with the WAIS-III and WISC-IV, respectively. The aim of the present study was to produce an expanded set of preliminary comparative norms on the WISC-IV for white and coloured Afrikaans, white English and black Xhosa speaking Grade 7 children, aged 12 to 13 years, stratified for advantaged versus disadvantaged education. The results of this study replicate the findings of the prior South African cross-cultural studies in respect of quality of education, as groups with advantaged private/former Model C schooling outperformed those with disadvantaged former DET or HOR township schooling. Furthermore, a downward continuum of WISC-IV IQ test performance emerged as follows: 1) white English advantaged (high average), 2) white Afrikaans advantaged and black Xhosa advantaged (average), 3) coloured Afrikaans advantaged (below average), 4) black Xhosa disadvantaged (borderline), and 5) coloured Afrikaans disadvantaged (extremely low). The present study has demonstrated that while language and ethnic variables reveal subtle effects on IQ test performance, quality of education has the most significant effect – impacting significantly on verbal performance with this effect replicated in respect of the FSIQ. Therefore caution should be exercised in interpreting test results of individuals from different language/ethnic groups, and in particular those with disadvantaged schooling, as preliminary data suggest that these individuals achieve scores which are 20 – 35 points lower than the UK standardisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A critical edition of the poems of Henry Vaux (c. 1559-1587) in MS. Folger Bd with STC 22957
- Hacksley, Timothy Christopher
- Authors: Hacksley, Timothy Christopher
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Vaux, Henry, ca. 1559-1587 -- Criticism and interpretation Vaux, Henry, ca. 1559-1587 Latin poetry, Medieval and modern -- History and criticism English poetry -- Early modern, 1500-1700
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2200 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002242
- Description: This thesis offers an edition of the English and Latin poems found in MS. Folger bd with STC 22957, attributed to Henry Vaux (c. 1559—1587), a recusant, priest-smuggler, and child prodigy. THE TEXT of the edition is preceded by an introduction comprising three parts: a GENERAL INTRODUCTION describing Vaux‘s socio-historical and biographical context; a CRITICAL INTRODUCTION describing the Medieval and Early Modern literary contexts of Vaux‘s poems and the forms, traditions, topoi, and conventions adhered to in them; and a TEXTUAL INTRODUCTION describing the seventeenth-century manuscript copy of the poems used as the source text and explaining and justifying the editorial decisions made. Textual variants and instances of doubtful authorship are also discussed. THE TEXT itself is presented in the original spelling of the MS. and is a diplomatic edition: the scribe‘s use of characters that are now defunct (such as long ‗s‘ and ‗=‘ for ‗-‘) has not been modernised. A critical apparatus is provided with THE TEXT. THE TEXT is followed by an extensive COMMENTARY, which glosses un-usual or archaic words and phrases, points out allusions and their likely sources, discusses literary forms and conventions which inform the reading of the po-ems, and observes peculiarities in poetic metre. Translations and commentary are offered for Vaux‘s Latin poems. The five appendices following the COMMEN-TARY comprise a MODERNISED TEXT of the poems, a FACSIMILE OF THE FOLGER MS., a SUBSEQUENT HISTORY OF THE VAUX FAMILY after Henry Vaux‘s death, a text JOHN OF PECHAM‘S PHILOMENA PRAEVIA (a text which informs the reading of Vaux‘s ―A complaint to the Nightingale‖) along with a parallel translation by me, and transcriptions of TEXTUAL VARIANTS. A BIBLIOGRAPHY of works cited, re-ferred to or consulted follows the appendices. A comprehensive GENERAL INDEX of subjects, people, places, and literary works and forms follows this, and an IN-DEX OF FIRST LINES AND TITLES of Vaux‘s poems completes the edition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hacksley, Timothy Christopher
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Vaux, Henry, ca. 1559-1587 -- Criticism and interpretation Vaux, Henry, ca. 1559-1587 Latin poetry, Medieval and modern -- History and criticism English poetry -- Early modern, 1500-1700
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2200 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002242
- Description: This thesis offers an edition of the English and Latin poems found in MS. Folger bd with STC 22957, attributed to Henry Vaux (c. 1559—1587), a recusant, priest-smuggler, and child prodigy. THE TEXT of the edition is preceded by an introduction comprising three parts: a GENERAL INTRODUCTION describing Vaux‘s socio-historical and biographical context; a CRITICAL INTRODUCTION describing the Medieval and Early Modern literary contexts of Vaux‘s poems and the forms, traditions, topoi, and conventions adhered to in them; and a TEXTUAL INTRODUCTION describing the seventeenth-century manuscript copy of the poems used as the source text and explaining and justifying the editorial decisions made. Textual variants and instances of doubtful authorship are also discussed. THE TEXT itself is presented in the original spelling of the MS. and is a diplomatic edition: the scribe‘s use of characters that are now defunct (such as long ‗s‘ and ‗=‘ for ‗-‘) has not been modernised. A critical apparatus is provided with THE TEXT. THE TEXT is followed by an extensive COMMENTARY, which glosses un-usual or archaic words and phrases, points out allusions and their likely sources, discusses literary forms and conventions which inform the reading of the po-ems, and observes peculiarities in poetic metre. Translations and commentary are offered for Vaux‘s Latin poems. The five appendices following the COMMEN-TARY comprise a MODERNISED TEXT of the poems, a FACSIMILE OF THE FOLGER MS., a SUBSEQUENT HISTORY OF THE VAUX FAMILY after Henry Vaux‘s death, a text JOHN OF PECHAM‘S PHILOMENA PRAEVIA (a text which informs the reading of Vaux‘s ―A complaint to the Nightingale‖) along with a parallel translation by me, and transcriptions of TEXTUAL VARIANTS. A BIBLIOGRAPHY of works cited, re-ferred to or consulted follows the appendices. A comprehensive GENERAL INDEX of subjects, people, places, and literary works and forms follows this, and an IN-DEX OF FIRST LINES AND TITLES of Vaux‘s poems completes the edition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A critical inquiry into the absence of a gender equality discourse in the coverage of the land redistribution issue in two Zimbabwean newspapers, The Daily News and The Herald, between 01 February and 30 June 2000
- Authors: Mawarire, Jealousy Mbizvo
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: The Daily News (Zimbabwe) The Herald (Zimbabwe) Journalism -- Zimbabwe Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe Sex in mass media -- Zimbabwe Discourse analysis -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002915
- Description: The media, which help define what we think and our roles in the society, have a crucial role to project both men and women’s issues so as to change people’s perceptions and stereotypes about the role men and women play in the society. There is need, therefore, to ensure gender equality in the operations of the media so that issues to do with both men and women get adequate and equal coverage. This study on the reportage of the land redistribution exercise in Zimbabwe has, however, exposed the gendered nature of the operations of the media, particularly in the news production process. It provides that, overally, the news discourse is a masculine narrative whose androcentric form is a result of, and is protected by, claims to ‘objectivity,’ ‘professionalism’, ‘impartiality’ and the pursuit of a journalistic routine system that hegemonically prioritises men’s issues over those of women. The situation, as the research shows, has not been helped by journalists’ incapacity to do thematic appreciation of issues and their over-inclination towards a simplistic event-based journalism that fails to question policies as they are enacted and implemented in gender-skewed processes. The lack of gender policies, the operations of patriarchy and the pursuit of a journalistic routine system that sees nothing wrong with the ostracisation of women issues are very fundamental findings that the research uses in its attempts to explain why the gender equality discourse was left out of the news reports about the land reform exercise in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Mawarire, Jealousy Mbizvo
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: The Daily News (Zimbabwe) The Herald (Zimbabwe) Journalism -- Zimbabwe Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe Sex in mass media -- Zimbabwe Discourse analysis -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002915
- Description: The media, which help define what we think and our roles in the society, have a crucial role to project both men and women’s issues so as to change people’s perceptions and stereotypes about the role men and women play in the society. There is need, therefore, to ensure gender equality in the operations of the media so that issues to do with both men and women get adequate and equal coverage. This study on the reportage of the land redistribution exercise in Zimbabwe has, however, exposed the gendered nature of the operations of the media, particularly in the news production process. It provides that, overally, the news discourse is a masculine narrative whose androcentric form is a result of, and is protected by, claims to ‘objectivity,’ ‘professionalism’, ‘impartiality’ and the pursuit of a journalistic routine system that hegemonically prioritises men’s issues over those of women. The situation, as the research shows, has not been helped by journalists’ incapacity to do thematic appreciation of issues and their over-inclination towards a simplistic event-based journalism that fails to question policies as they are enacted and implemented in gender-skewed processes. The lack of gender policies, the operations of patriarchy and the pursuit of a journalistic routine system that sees nothing wrong with the ostracisation of women issues are very fundamental findings that the research uses in its attempts to explain why the gender equality discourse was left out of the news reports about the land reform exercise in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
A study of professionalism and the professionalisation of journalists in Uganda from 1995 to 2008
- Authors: Mayiga, John Bosco
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Journalists -- Uganda Journalism -- Political aspects -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Journalism -- Sociological aspects -- Uganda Journalism, Commercial -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002916
- Description: This study seeks to examine how Ugandan journalists’ and politicians’ views on journalism professionalisation in Uganda relate to the broad theoretical arguments about professionalism within sociology and media studies. It also seeks to examine how such views impact on the democratic role of the media. The study finds out that there are two sets of distinct ideas on journalism professionalisation. The idea espoused by politicians is statutory professionalisation in which the state plays a major role through regulation and control, hence professionalisation is seen primarily as a control system. On the other hand, journalists perceive professionalisation as nurtured by voluntarily and socially inculcated professional values, hence as a value system. The study however, finds that both sets of understandings have their own complexities. While the statutory approach has complexities like how core elements of professionalism such as professional values can be imposed through legislation, the voluntary approach to professionalism also exhibits tensions within, especially stemming from the relationship between the professional and the news organisation regarding what constitutes professionalism. The study concludes that both sets of ideas have implications for the democratic role of the media, with both perceptions of professionalism curtailing this role. Statutory professionalisation in the Ugandan political context where the state is the dominant institution brings media institutions within its control, which leads to suppression of content of democratic value through a number of means. On the other hand, the self-regulatory perception does not protect media professionalism from the assault of commercial imperatives, especially when fused with state patronage in regard to broadcasting licences and placement of advertising.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Mayiga, John Bosco
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Journalists -- Uganda Journalism -- Political aspects -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Journalism -- Sociological aspects -- Uganda Journalism, Commercial -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002916
- Description: This study seeks to examine how Ugandan journalists’ and politicians’ views on journalism professionalisation in Uganda relate to the broad theoretical arguments about professionalism within sociology and media studies. It also seeks to examine how such views impact on the democratic role of the media. The study finds out that there are two sets of distinct ideas on journalism professionalisation. The idea espoused by politicians is statutory professionalisation in which the state plays a major role through regulation and control, hence professionalisation is seen primarily as a control system. On the other hand, journalists perceive professionalisation as nurtured by voluntarily and socially inculcated professional values, hence as a value system. The study however, finds that both sets of understandings have their own complexities. While the statutory approach has complexities like how core elements of professionalism such as professional values can be imposed through legislation, the voluntary approach to professionalism also exhibits tensions within, especially stemming from the relationship between the professional and the news organisation regarding what constitutes professionalism. The study concludes that both sets of ideas have implications for the democratic role of the media, with both perceptions of professionalism curtailing this role. Statutory professionalisation in the Ugandan political context where the state is the dominant institution brings media institutions within its control, which leads to suppression of content of democratic value through a number of means. On the other hand, the self-regulatory perception does not protect media professionalism from the assault of commercial imperatives, especially when fused with state patronage in regard to broadcasting licences and placement of advertising.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An analysis of current East African higher education systems and institutions
- Authors: Gouws, Jeanine
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- Africa, East -- Evaluation , Universities and colleges -- Africa, East
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:16147 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/785 , Education, Higher -- Africa, East -- Evaluation , Universities and colleges -- Africa, East
- Description: Higher education (HE) institutions play a vital role in the generation of new knowledge in the 21st Century, as HE is recognised as a key force for modernisation and development. The development and advancement of information technology have led to an interconnected, borderless world of knowledge, and HE institutions have become part of what is known as the global HE network society. HE institutions in developed countries are the most actively involved in producing and disseminating knowledge, and compete with one another in adding to this world stock of knowledge. In addition, HE has become a national priority in developed countries, and governments place pressure on HE institutions to form part of and remain active in the global HE network society in order to contribute to the knowledge-centred economy of today. However, the developing world lags far behind in becoming part of the global HE network society. As long as the developing world face constraints in attempts to improve national economies, alleviate poverty and maintain sustainability, prospects of contributing to, and participating in the global HE network society seem unlikely. HE can be used as a tool in addressing national development needs. With the necessary support and recognition from governments, HE should play a vital role in the process of reform and the revitalisation of developing countries. Africa is the least developed in terms of HE institutions. Approximately 300 institutions fit the definition of a university across the continent. While some countries on the continent, especially in Southern and Northern Africa, can claim comprehensive academic systems, most have just a few academic institutions and some countries have not yet even established differentiated post-secondary systems. It is generally assumed that most countries south of the Sahara lack adequate HE systems, or that they have no HE systems at all. Very little information on African HE systems and institutions, and how they function, is available, and there is a need for a deeper investigation into African HE systems and institutions. The vastness and diversity of the African continent does not allow for a single study of all African countries and their HE systems and institutions. It is for this reason that East Africa, comprising Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, was chosen for this study. This specific region exhibits common characteristics amongst its countries. A British colonial history, similar secondary schooling systems and a predominance of the English language, set East Africa apart from the rest of the African continent. East African HE functions on a regional, national, and institutional level, and their way of functioning is interdependent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Gouws, Jeanine
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- Africa, East -- Evaluation , Universities and colleges -- Africa, East
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:16147 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/785 , Education, Higher -- Africa, East -- Evaluation , Universities and colleges -- Africa, East
- Description: Higher education (HE) institutions play a vital role in the generation of new knowledge in the 21st Century, as HE is recognised as a key force for modernisation and development. The development and advancement of information technology have led to an interconnected, borderless world of knowledge, and HE institutions have become part of what is known as the global HE network society. HE institutions in developed countries are the most actively involved in producing and disseminating knowledge, and compete with one another in adding to this world stock of knowledge. In addition, HE has become a national priority in developed countries, and governments place pressure on HE institutions to form part of and remain active in the global HE network society in order to contribute to the knowledge-centred economy of today. However, the developing world lags far behind in becoming part of the global HE network society. As long as the developing world face constraints in attempts to improve national economies, alleviate poverty and maintain sustainability, prospects of contributing to, and participating in the global HE network society seem unlikely. HE can be used as a tool in addressing national development needs. With the necessary support and recognition from governments, HE should play a vital role in the process of reform and the revitalisation of developing countries. Africa is the least developed in terms of HE institutions. Approximately 300 institutions fit the definition of a university across the continent. While some countries on the continent, especially in Southern and Northern Africa, can claim comprehensive academic systems, most have just a few academic institutions and some countries have not yet even established differentiated post-secondary systems. It is generally assumed that most countries south of the Sahara lack adequate HE systems, or that they have no HE systems at all. Very little information on African HE systems and institutions, and how they function, is available, and there is a need for a deeper investigation into African HE systems and institutions. The vastness and diversity of the African continent does not allow for a single study of all African countries and their HE systems and institutions. It is for this reason that East Africa, comprising Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, was chosen for this study. This specific region exhibits common characteristics amongst its countries. A British colonial history, similar secondary schooling systems and a predominance of the English language, set East Africa apart from the rest of the African continent. East African HE functions on a regional, national, and institutional level, and their way of functioning is interdependent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An analysis of local level development in South Africa: a case study of Uitenhage
- Authors: Meyer, Sarah
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Uitenhage -- Case studies Economic development -- South Africa -- Case studies Municipal corporations -- South Africa -- Case studies Community development -- South Africa -- Case studies Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Case studies Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:4813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005487
- Description: Development backlogs, in terms of unemployment and poverty, plague many developing countries. Countries have established and implemented various policies and plans to address these challenges. In response to these development backlogs, South Africa has instituted the notion of decentralisation and developmental local government, whereby local governments are largely responsible for initiating and facilitating development in the area under their jurisdiction. Furthermore, the potential role the private sector can play in development is being increasingly recognised by government, politicians, academics and developers alike. Uitenhage has a strong corporate presence and therefore this sector has the potential to contribute towards development in the town. However the concept of using corporate social responsibility (CSR) to promote development in South Africa is relatively new and, as will be revealed in the case study, definitions and underlying motivation for undertaking CSR vary. Local Economic Development (LED) and, more recently, CSR, have been recognised as major drivers of development and are being implemented throughout the country. As this thesis illustrates, they often merge and can work hand-in-hand to promote local development. Although the private sector, through CSR has the potential to contribute to development, they often do not have the available human resources to implement development initiatives. As is evident in the case study, partnerships between the private and public sectors often emerge as a result. Development institutions play a key role in development and often assist in bridging the gap between citizens, the state and the market. The development institutions in Uitenhage often act as instigators and facilitators on behalf of the larger corporations. The case study in Uitenhage, is a locality where there is a strong automotive industrial cluster and several major firms which are active in the development process. Furthermore, development institutions are committed to the socio-economic development of the town and the promotion of small micro medium enterprises (SMMEs), through various support services. The development institutions, often in partnership with the local government and the public sector, have initiated various local developmental projects in the town, of which three will be discussed in the case study. In this thesis, case study research reveals that corporations often do not meet their potential developmental role and their CSR actions are often considered as ‘window-dressing’ aimed at boosting their corporate image. Similarly, with regard to the development institutions, their development and job creation results look impressive at first glance, but further investigation reveals a collapse of a large number of projects. Despite the potential of LED and CSR to be major drivers of local development, there are still a number of hindering factors, which will be revealed in this thesis and lessons to be learnt which can help to inform future local development projects
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Meyer, Sarah
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Uitenhage -- Case studies Economic development -- South Africa -- Case studies Municipal corporations -- South Africa -- Case studies Community development -- South Africa -- Case studies Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Case studies Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:4813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005487
- Description: Development backlogs, in terms of unemployment and poverty, plague many developing countries. Countries have established and implemented various policies and plans to address these challenges. In response to these development backlogs, South Africa has instituted the notion of decentralisation and developmental local government, whereby local governments are largely responsible for initiating and facilitating development in the area under their jurisdiction. Furthermore, the potential role the private sector can play in development is being increasingly recognised by government, politicians, academics and developers alike. Uitenhage has a strong corporate presence and therefore this sector has the potential to contribute towards development in the town. However the concept of using corporate social responsibility (CSR) to promote development in South Africa is relatively new and, as will be revealed in the case study, definitions and underlying motivation for undertaking CSR vary. Local Economic Development (LED) and, more recently, CSR, have been recognised as major drivers of development and are being implemented throughout the country. As this thesis illustrates, they often merge and can work hand-in-hand to promote local development. Although the private sector, through CSR has the potential to contribute to development, they often do not have the available human resources to implement development initiatives. As is evident in the case study, partnerships between the private and public sectors often emerge as a result. Development institutions play a key role in development and often assist in bridging the gap between citizens, the state and the market. The development institutions in Uitenhage often act as instigators and facilitators on behalf of the larger corporations. The case study in Uitenhage, is a locality where there is a strong automotive industrial cluster and several major firms which are active in the development process. Furthermore, development institutions are committed to the socio-economic development of the town and the promotion of small micro medium enterprises (SMMEs), through various support services. The development institutions, often in partnership with the local government and the public sector, have initiated various local developmental projects in the town, of which three will be discussed in the case study. In this thesis, case study research reveals that corporations often do not meet their potential developmental role and their CSR actions are often considered as ‘window-dressing’ aimed at boosting their corporate image. Similarly, with regard to the development institutions, their development and job creation results look impressive at first glance, but further investigation reveals a collapse of a large number of projects. Despite the potential of LED and CSR to be major drivers of local development, there are still a number of hindering factors, which will be revealed in this thesis and lessons to be learnt which can help to inform future local development projects
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An evaluation of the assessment criteria of the Unit Standard 115789
- Authors: Danster, Franscesca Olivia
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Standards -- South Africa , Accreditation (Education) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8366 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1215 , Education -- Standards -- South Africa , Accreditation (Education) -- South Africa
- Description: This study investigates the assessment criteria of Unit Standard 115789: Communication Studies and Language. In general unit standards are registered, standardised statements of expected education and training outcomes including assessment criteria and other regulatory information required by training providers and assessors to train and assess learners under the Skills Development Act of 1998. However, it was found that many training providers and assessors share the view that in the case of Unit Standard 115789, among others, the assessment criteria and their descriptors are generic, vague and non-context specific to the extent that trainers and assessors have difficulty in developing appropriate and reliable assessment tools and instruments that allow them to adhere to the basic principles of assessment, namely transparency, validity, reliability, consistency, practicability, fairness, flexibility and usability. The main concern of the study is that learners will be declared communicatively competent individuals in a variety of professional and industrial environments when in fact they are not. The study traces the origins and development processes of Unit Standard 115789 in order to gain a clearer understanding of the problems experienced by training providers and assessors in the implementation of the assessment criteria. It then proposes a set of guidelines that will assist training providers and assessors to make the assessment criteria more accessible and the assessment processes more reliable, valid and consistent. Finally, it makes a number of recommendations to ensure that the problems of implementation of Unit Standard 115789 currently experienced by training providers and assessors are alleviated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Danster, Franscesca Olivia
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Education -- Standards -- South Africa , Accreditation (Education) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8366 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1215 , Education -- Standards -- South Africa , Accreditation (Education) -- South Africa
- Description: This study investigates the assessment criteria of Unit Standard 115789: Communication Studies and Language. In general unit standards are registered, standardised statements of expected education and training outcomes including assessment criteria and other regulatory information required by training providers and assessors to train and assess learners under the Skills Development Act of 1998. However, it was found that many training providers and assessors share the view that in the case of Unit Standard 115789, among others, the assessment criteria and their descriptors are generic, vague and non-context specific to the extent that trainers and assessors have difficulty in developing appropriate and reliable assessment tools and instruments that allow them to adhere to the basic principles of assessment, namely transparency, validity, reliability, consistency, practicability, fairness, flexibility and usability. The main concern of the study is that learners will be declared communicatively competent individuals in a variety of professional and industrial environments when in fact they are not. The study traces the origins and development processes of Unit Standard 115789 in order to gain a clearer understanding of the problems experienced by training providers and assessors in the implementation of the assessment criteria. It then proposes a set of guidelines that will assist training providers and assessors to make the assessment criteria more accessible and the assessment processes more reliable, valid and consistent. Finally, it makes a number of recommendations to ensure that the problems of implementation of Unit Standard 115789 currently experienced by training providers and assessors are alleviated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An evaluation of the South African Department of Defence's policy on Defence Industrial Participation (DIP) as a defence industrial development mechanism
- Authors: Van Dyk, Johannes Jacobus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: South Africa. Dept. of Defence , Defense industries -- South Africa , South Africa -- Defenses , South Africa -- Military policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9083 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1067 , South Africa. Dept. of Defence , Defense industries -- South Africa , South Africa -- Defenses , South Africa -- Military policy
- Description: This dissertation focuses on the local defence-related industry as a beneficiary under the Department of Defence’s defence industrial participation (DIP) programme, managed by Armscor. Attention is given to the main construct of the development theory and how the DIP process in South Africa compares with the international reciprocal trade phenomena commonly referred to as ‘countertrade’. The author does an in-depth analysis of the Government’s policy regarding the defence-related industry (DRI) that forms part of the local defence industrial base (DIB), as well as the DIP policy, procedures and practices and their subsequent bearing on the local defence industry. The study is further substantiated with a comprehensive review of the consequences and outcomes resulting from the largest defence package deal (SDP), signed in December 1999, between the Department of Defence and several major foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and subsequently benchmarked against academic discourse on the subjects of international countertrade and development theories.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Van Dyk, Johannes Jacobus
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: South Africa. Dept. of Defence , Defense industries -- South Africa , South Africa -- Defenses , South Africa -- Military policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9083 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1067 , South Africa. Dept. of Defence , Defense industries -- South Africa , South Africa -- Defenses , South Africa -- Military policy
- Description: This dissertation focuses on the local defence-related industry as a beneficiary under the Department of Defence’s defence industrial participation (DIP) programme, managed by Armscor. Attention is given to the main construct of the development theory and how the DIP process in South Africa compares with the international reciprocal trade phenomena commonly referred to as ‘countertrade’. The author does an in-depth analysis of the Government’s policy regarding the defence-related industry (DRI) that forms part of the local defence industrial base (DIB), as well as the DIP policy, procedures and practices and their subsequent bearing on the local defence industry. The study is further substantiated with a comprehensive review of the consequences and outcomes resulting from the largest defence package deal (SDP), signed in December 1999, between the Department of Defence and several major foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and subsequently benchmarked against academic discourse on the subjects of international countertrade and development theories.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An exploration of transformation at an institution of higher education using Anstey's conceptual framework
- Authors: Wannenburg, Iona
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Transformative learning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9423 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/865 , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Transformative learning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Description: In this study an exploration was conducted of change and transformation at an institution of higher education in South Africa using Anstey’s conceptual framework. This framework incorporated the work of major change theorists as well as the balanced scorecard of Kaplan and Norton. A quantitative and exploratory approach was used. The research question for this study was formulated as follows: How successful was the organizational transformation process at the newly established university in the period 2003 – 2007? The first objective of the study was to describe the organizational transformation process as it unfolded at the newly established university. The second objective was to evaluate the success of the organizational transformation process by using Anstey’s conceptual framework. Eight factors were identified in Anstey’s framework according to which the success of the merger was analyzed. These factors were: constructive unease; harnessed urgency; clear purpose; challenging vision with clear measurable objectives; champions at all levels; culture and community; competitive competencies; coherent strategy, and communication and consultation. A computerized survey tool was utilized to design a structured questionnaire with both fixed response and open-ended questions. Some 13 percent of the employees responded to the questionnaire. The internal consistency of the scores derived from the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha. Descriptive statistics revealed that 62.5 percent of factor scores were neutral and 37.5 percent negative with regard to staffs’ perceptions of the merger. Inferential statistics disclosed that academic staff viewed the merger more negatively on factor 3 challenging vision with clear measurable objectives than their administrative colleagues. The total success of the merger can be summarized by the following statement of one of the participants ‘If the NMMU merger is compared to other mergers in Higher Education in South Africa then it is clear that, from a systems and procedural perspective, it was managed satisfactory. Unfortunately the ‘people’ dimension of the merger did not feature as a priority and many staff members were alienated as a result of this.’ The limitation of the study was the small sample size. This study was also contextual in nature, meaning that it focused on the transformation process as it unfolded at a specific university in South African between the years 2003 – 2007. No results generated in this study can be generalized as they only presented a shot-in-time reflecting the transformation process at a particular organization at a particular period in time. This study also confirmed the usefulness of Anstey’s conceptual framework in assessing transformation at an institution of higher education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Wannenburg, Iona
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Transformative learning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9423 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/865 , Universities and colleges -- Mergers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Transformative learning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Description: In this study an exploration was conducted of change and transformation at an institution of higher education in South Africa using Anstey’s conceptual framework. This framework incorporated the work of major change theorists as well as the balanced scorecard of Kaplan and Norton. A quantitative and exploratory approach was used. The research question for this study was formulated as follows: How successful was the organizational transformation process at the newly established university in the period 2003 – 2007? The first objective of the study was to describe the organizational transformation process as it unfolded at the newly established university. The second objective was to evaluate the success of the organizational transformation process by using Anstey’s conceptual framework. Eight factors were identified in Anstey’s framework according to which the success of the merger was analyzed. These factors were: constructive unease; harnessed urgency; clear purpose; challenging vision with clear measurable objectives; champions at all levels; culture and community; competitive competencies; coherent strategy, and communication and consultation. A computerized survey tool was utilized to design a structured questionnaire with both fixed response and open-ended questions. Some 13 percent of the employees responded to the questionnaire. The internal consistency of the scores derived from the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha. Descriptive statistics revealed that 62.5 percent of factor scores were neutral and 37.5 percent negative with regard to staffs’ perceptions of the merger. Inferential statistics disclosed that academic staff viewed the merger more negatively on factor 3 challenging vision with clear measurable objectives than their administrative colleagues. The total success of the merger can be summarized by the following statement of one of the participants ‘If the NMMU merger is compared to other mergers in Higher Education in South Africa then it is clear that, from a systems and procedural perspective, it was managed satisfactory. Unfortunately the ‘people’ dimension of the merger did not feature as a priority and many staff members were alienated as a result of this.’ The limitation of the study was the small sample size. This study was also contextual in nature, meaning that it focused on the transformation process as it unfolded at a specific university in South African between the years 2003 – 2007. No results generated in this study can be generalized as they only presented a shot-in-time reflecting the transformation process at a particular organization at a particular period in time. This study also confirmed the usefulness of Anstey’s conceptual framework in assessing transformation at an institution of higher education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An exploratory study of Rhodes students' attitudes and perceptions towards HIV/Aids
- Authors: Weston, Robyn
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Students Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes Counseling in higher education AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa HIV infections -- South Africa AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa HIV infections -- Study and teaching -- South Africa HIV infections -- Diagnosis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003294
- Description: The present study explores Rhodes students' perceptions and attitudes towards HIV/Aids issues. This study focuses on risk behaviour, stigmatisation, social perceptions and voluntary counselling and HIV testing (VCT). There is a lack of research on student attitudes, knowledge and behaviour at Rhodes University. It was therefore deemed pertinent to research this topic in that context. It was envisaged that the study would provide insights to be used in the formulation of improved strategies for HIV/Aids programs and education, ultimately impacting on the exponential increase of the pandemic in the Southern African region. A sample of six hundred and seventy five Rhodes University undergraduates completed a survey and its findings were interpreted in terms of relevant literature. A mixed methods approach using qualitative and quantitative methods was used. A focus group consisting of seven post-graduate students informed the development of the survey along with relevant literature. Four departments from the faculties of Commerce, Humanities, Science and Law were randomly sampled for the survey phase. Statistica was used to calculate descriptive statistics while the chi-square statistic was applied to examine the relationships between the variables. The findings show that the majority of students have high intention levels in planning to use preventative behaviour. However, in practise, this may not be the case. Many students feel that they belong to high or medium risk groups, as opposed to the low-risk groups. In terms of motivation levels, only sixty three percent of students are highly motivated to protect themselves from HIV/Aids and one third of respondents felt that they could not ask their partner to accompany them for an HIV/Aids test. In addition, students who had received VCT were more likely to be positive about the counselling process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Weston, Robyn
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Students Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes Counseling in higher education AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa HIV infections -- South Africa AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa HIV infections -- Study and teaching -- South Africa HIV infections -- Diagnosis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003294
- Description: The present study explores Rhodes students' perceptions and attitudes towards HIV/Aids issues. This study focuses on risk behaviour, stigmatisation, social perceptions and voluntary counselling and HIV testing (VCT). There is a lack of research on student attitudes, knowledge and behaviour at Rhodes University. It was therefore deemed pertinent to research this topic in that context. It was envisaged that the study would provide insights to be used in the formulation of improved strategies for HIV/Aids programs and education, ultimately impacting on the exponential increase of the pandemic in the Southern African region. A sample of six hundred and seventy five Rhodes University undergraduates completed a survey and its findings were interpreted in terms of relevant literature. A mixed methods approach using qualitative and quantitative methods was used. A focus group consisting of seven post-graduate students informed the development of the survey along with relevant literature. Four departments from the faculties of Commerce, Humanities, Science and Law were randomly sampled for the survey phase. Statistica was used to calculate descriptive statistics while the chi-square statistic was applied to examine the relationships between the variables. The findings show that the majority of students have high intention levels in planning to use preventative behaviour. However, in practise, this may not be the case. Many students feel that they belong to high or medium risk groups, as opposed to the low-risk groups. In terms of motivation levels, only sixty three percent of students are highly motivated to protect themselves from HIV/Aids and one third of respondents felt that they could not ask their partner to accompany them for an HIV/Aids test. In addition, students who had received VCT were more likely to be positive about the counselling process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation into the representation of the mentally ill in popular film
- Authors: Vermeulen, Monique
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mental illness in motion pictures , Mental illness , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8403 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/800 , Mental illness in motion pictures , Mental illness , Mass media
- Description: There is a common perception that media depiction of mental health and illness is overwhelmingly negative and inaccurate. Media portrayal of mental illness is also viewed as an important element in forming and influencing society’s attitudes towards mental health issues, although there is no causal link to prove this. People with mental illness are most commonly shown as being violent and aggressive. Movie stereotypes that contribute to the stigmatisation of mentally ill persons include the mental patient as rebellious free spirit, homicidal maniac, seductress, enlightened member of society, narcissistic parasite, and zoo specimen. The profession of psychiatry is, has always been, and will likely continue to be a much enjoyed subject among filmmakers and their audiences, as it tends to provide exciting and emotionally compelling opportunities to portray personal struggles feared by most of humanity. This research will analyse the entertainment media in an attempt to provide evidence to support the above statement. The research will, furthermore, analyse the manner in which entertainment media represent the mentally ill with reference to popular films invariably produced in the US
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Vermeulen, Monique
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mental illness in motion pictures , Mental illness , Mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8403 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/800 , Mental illness in motion pictures , Mental illness , Mass media
- Description: There is a common perception that media depiction of mental health and illness is overwhelmingly negative and inaccurate. Media portrayal of mental illness is also viewed as an important element in forming and influencing society’s attitudes towards mental health issues, although there is no causal link to prove this. People with mental illness are most commonly shown as being violent and aggressive. Movie stereotypes that contribute to the stigmatisation of mentally ill persons include the mental patient as rebellious free spirit, homicidal maniac, seductress, enlightened member of society, narcissistic parasite, and zoo specimen. The profession of psychiatry is, has always been, and will likely continue to be a much enjoyed subject among filmmakers and their audiences, as it tends to provide exciting and emotionally compelling opportunities to portray personal struggles feared by most of humanity. This research will analyse the entertainment media in an attempt to provide evidence to support the above statement. The research will, furthermore, analyse the manner in which entertainment media represent the mentally ill with reference to popular films invariably produced in the US
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of masculinity in J. M. Coetzee's disgrace (1999)
- Authors: Kok, Marina Susan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/783 , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Description: The study of Masculinity is a fairly new phenomenon which developed as a refinement of gender studies. The theoretical frameworks on masculinity are still under development and are often severely contested. This study proposes to examine the dynamics of masculinity studies, critiquing the notion of ‘masculinity in crisis’. The premise of the masculinity in crisis debate is that men are experiencing an increasing sense of powerlessness. This dissertation aims to examine the masculine identities represented in Disgrace and to test whether they are better understood through the lens of masculine theory. The disgraceful situation of David Lurie is arguably not merely a result of hapless circumstance, but rather illustrates significant parallels with the crisis debate. The basic premise of this debate is that the behaviour previously condoned and applauded as healthy 'manliness' is now being labelled as anti-social and destructive. It is not just masculine roles that are under threat. Other forces behind the crisis are “the loss of masculine rights and changes in the pattern of employment” (Beynon 2002:75). One view held by theorists of masculinity studies is that for real change to occur, a fluid definition of masculine identity is needed. In J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace (1999), the main protagonist is David Lurie. He may arguably be said to typify a masculinity that is in a state of crisis because of his stoic refusal throughout the novel to change or reform: “I was offered a compromise, which I would not accept”, he says, and: “Re-education. Reformation of the character. The code word was counselling” (1999:66). His aversion to such counselling and refusal to compromise mark his resistance to change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kok, Marina Susan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/783 , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Description: The study of Masculinity is a fairly new phenomenon which developed as a refinement of gender studies. The theoretical frameworks on masculinity are still under development and are often severely contested. This study proposes to examine the dynamics of masculinity studies, critiquing the notion of ‘masculinity in crisis’. The premise of the masculinity in crisis debate is that men are experiencing an increasing sense of powerlessness. This dissertation aims to examine the masculine identities represented in Disgrace and to test whether they are better understood through the lens of masculine theory. The disgraceful situation of David Lurie is arguably not merely a result of hapless circumstance, but rather illustrates significant parallels with the crisis debate. The basic premise of this debate is that the behaviour previously condoned and applauded as healthy 'manliness' is now being labelled as anti-social and destructive. It is not just masculine roles that are under threat. Other forces behind the crisis are “the loss of masculine rights and changes in the pattern of employment” (Beynon 2002:75). One view held by theorists of masculinity studies is that for real change to occur, a fluid definition of masculine identity is needed. In J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace (1999), the main protagonist is David Lurie. He may arguably be said to typify a masculinity that is in a state of crisis because of his stoic refusal throughout the novel to change or reform: “I was offered a compromise, which I would not accept”, he says, and: “Re-education. Reformation of the character. The code word was counselling” (1999:66). His aversion to such counselling and refusal to compromise mark his resistance to change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of the themes and techniques in L.L. Sebe's "Ucamngco" = Uphando ngemixholo nesimo sokubhala esisetyenziswe kwincwadi ke L.L. Sebe "Ucamngco"
- Authors: Grootboom, Zoleka Faith
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/781 , Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Grootboom, Zoleka Faith
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/781 , Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of the Ugandan publication Red Pepper: a case study from 2001-2004
- Authors: Opolot, Benedict
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Red Pepper (Uganda) Sex in mass media -- Uganda Liberalism in mass media -- Uganda Homophobia -- Press coverage -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Tabloid newspapers -- Uganda -- Case studies Newspapers -- Uganda -- 21st century Journalism -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3513 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007713
- Description: Red Pepper has been the subject of much discussion in Uganda, with some accounts describing it as a liberal mouthpiece, and others as pornography. This case study, therefore, sought to investigate Red Pepper as a media phenomenon in Uganda in the 21st century, specifically between 2001 and 2004. Employing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, it focused on the production process and the text. Although sexualised content dominate its pages, and news about issues such as the environment and education are near-absent, its managers describe the publication as legitimate, normative and consistent with liberal media standards. Accordingly, to interrogate Red Pepper in terms of its journalistic functions, selected debates associated with liberal approaches to news media, media political economy, tabloidisation, pornography and gendered relations were reviewed. The analysis entailed five phases. The first was a denotative or descriptive analysis, which focused on the publication's structure and content focus. This was followed by an interview with management, a broad content analysis to establish the incidence of predefined content categories expected of the tabloid, pornographic and liberal press and, lastly, a theme-based content analysis that sought to establish the potential meanings and framing of the dominant content categories of gossip and sexualised copy. Overall, the study found Red Pepper to be a misogynistic tabloid, having elements said to belong to pornography and homophobia. According to the findings, not only does Red Pepper fall short of a liberal understanding of a newspaper in terms of diversity of topics, provision of information and professional practice, it also does not fit the understanding of an alternative public sphere, mainly because it fails to challenge the patriarchal framing of sex, sexuality and gendered relations. This framing is undertaken deliberately as a means to securing economic rather than journalistic ideals to which the editors pay lip service. Consequently, the gossip and sexualised content are not problematised and as such discourses and power relations therein are not interrogated. Neither are inadequacies in local systems addressed nor corrective action mobilised as expected of some tabloids. All in all, the publication fronts superficial entertainment content that echoes particular gender constructions and patriarchal commonsense and entrenches the (undesirable) status quo which, ironically, it claims to challenge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Opolot, Benedict
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Red Pepper (Uganda) Sex in mass media -- Uganda Liberalism in mass media -- Uganda Homophobia -- Press coverage -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Tabloid newspapers -- Uganda -- Case studies Newspapers -- Uganda -- 21st century Journalism -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3513 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007713
- Description: Red Pepper has been the subject of much discussion in Uganda, with some accounts describing it as a liberal mouthpiece, and others as pornography. This case study, therefore, sought to investigate Red Pepper as a media phenomenon in Uganda in the 21st century, specifically between 2001 and 2004. Employing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, it focused on the production process and the text. Although sexualised content dominate its pages, and news about issues such as the environment and education are near-absent, its managers describe the publication as legitimate, normative and consistent with liberal media standards. Accordingly, to interrogate Red Pepper in terms of its journalistic functions, selected debates associated with liberal approaches to news media, media political economy, tabloidisation, pornography and gendered relations were reviewed. The analysis entailed five phases. The first was a denotative or descriptive analysis, which focused on the publication's structure and content focus. This was followed by an interview with management, a broad content analysis to establish the incidence of predefined content categories expected of the tabloid, pornographic and liberal press and, lastly, a theme-based content analysis that sought to establish the potential meanings and framing of the dominant content categories of gossip and sexualised copy. Overall, the study found Red Pepper to be a misogynistic tabloid, having elements said to belong to pornography and homophobia. According to the findings, not only does Red Pepper fall short of a liberal understanding of a newspaper in terms of diversity of topics, provision of information and professional practice, it also does not fit the understanding of an alternative public sphere, mainly because it fails to challenge the patriarchal framing of sex, sexuality and gendered relations. This framing is undertaken deliberately as a means to securing economic rather than journalistic ideals to which the editors pay lip service. Consequently, the gossip and sexualised content are not problematised and as such discourses and power relations therein are not interrogated. Neither are inadequacies in local systems addressed nor corrective action mobilised as expected of some tabloids. All in all, the publication fronts superficial entertainment content that echoes particular gender constructions and patriarchal commonsense and entrenches the (undesirable) status quo which, ironically, it claims to challenge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation on the impact of the land redistribution and development (LRAD) programme with special reference to the Tsomo Valley Agricultural Co-operative farms
- Authors: Tuta, Wonga Precious
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1126 , Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the research was to assess the policy impact of the Land Redistribution and Development (LRAD) Programme, which substituted the Settlement and Land Acquisition Grant (SLAG) programme. Both these policies were meant to make land accessible to previously disadvantaged groups including Africans, Coloureds and Indians, as part of land reform policies of the post 1994 democratic government. Due to some failures of SLAG after its first five years of implementation, which were from 1995 to 1999, the land redistribution policy was revised and the LRAD programme came as an improved policy of SLAG. There has not been much research on the impact of this programme, which has been implemented since August 2001.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Tuta, Wonga Precious
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1126 , Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the research was to assess the policy impact of the Land Redistribution and Development (LRAD) Programme, which substituted the Settlement and Land Acquisition Grant (SLAG) programme. Both these policies were meant to make land accessible to previously disadvantaged groups including Africans, Coloureds and Indians, as part of land reform policies of the post 1994 democratic government. Due to some failures of SLAG after its first five years of implementation, which were from 1995 to 1999, the land redistribution policy was revised and the LRAD programme came as an improved policy of SLAG. There has not been much research on the impact of this programme, which has been implemented since August 2001.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008