Integrating Indigenous Ugandan social ethics into an education foundations curriculum: teacher educator’s perspectives
- Authors: Nampijja, Florence Kirabo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Indigenous peoples – Education--Africa , Decolonization Africa-Uganda , Curriculum change
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53552 , vital:45436
- Description: The research claims that curriculum in Uganda is too westernized to the extent that indigenous Ugandan social ethics which informed pre- colonial curriculum have been totally neglected. Consequently, there are many learned but few socially educated persons in the country. Findings highlighted that teacher educators supported the integration of relevant indigenous knowledges into curriculum because indigenous knowledge is directly linked to the environment within which Ugandan students live, studies and operates after studies. They also believed that IUSEs provides a bedrock for professional conduct to flourish and thus, must be treated as an important component of the curriculum. However, though participants acknowledged the advantages of integrating IUSE into curriculum, they identified a number of obstacles to the integration of IUSEs. For instance: lack of consensus of IUSEs among the fifty-six tribes in Uganda; lack of support by the civil service deployment policy. Some confessed to the lack of adequate knowledge about IUSEs; the feeling of cognitive imperialism that is still possessed by some teacher educators and others. Among the strategies to be used for successful integration, teacher educators highlighted the need for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders, adopting the use of local languages as a medium of instruction and others. Data also revealed that the EFC currently aims at professional mentorship and giving employable skills to the students. The Such a situation manifests itself in the degeneration of ethical values by many Ugandans. This study examined teacher educators’ perspectives on integrating IUSEs in an Education Foundations curriculum (EFC). I used the decolonization theory, anti-colonial theory and indigenous knowledge discursive framework as lenses that framed the study. The findings from the study have implications for formulation of an education philosophy that is anchored in a national philosophy should be designed to guide curriculum designers in Uganda. The study further recommended that NCHE should compel all universities to integrate IUSEs into curriculum treating IUSEs as part of the minimum standards that must be satisfied before program accreditation. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Large mammalian fauna of the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain: predicting habitat use and range distribution
- Authors: Brooke, Christopher F
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Herbivores
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52332 , vital:43590
- Description: Understanding the variations in structure and abundance of animals and what leads to their distribution within the landscape has captured the attention of ecologists for centuries. Importantly, knowledge of current behaviour of large mammals can be used to inform historic population dynamics and is essential to understanding how early humans used large mammals as a foraging resource. Central to this thesis and improving our understanding of large herbivores is the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain (PAP) where large mammalian herbivores formed a key food resource for early humans. The PAP, now submerged off the southern Cape of South Africa, formed a novel ecosystem during lower sea levels. Characterised by large expanses of nutrient rich grasslands and large grazing herbivores, the PAP stands in stark contrast to the nutrient poor fynbos ecosystems that is in the southern Cape today. In this thesis I focus on the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM; ~20 ka) when the PAP was last fully exposed to answer questions relating to the habitat use and range distribution of large herbivores. Importantly, through the Paleoscape Project, modelled climate, soil and vegetation have made these recreations of large mammals possible. Using modelled climate and vegetation this thesis aims to model the large herbivore communities and understand the influence of early humans on the PAP during the LGM for successful integration into the PaleoscapeABM (the PAP agent-based model). To improve our understanding of large mammals on the PAP I identified five large herbivores that became extinct on the PAP since the LGM and modelled their behavioural and physical traits using k-Nearest Neighbour imputation. I predicted the biomass of large herbivores across the PAP using actual biomass of large herbivores from 39 protected areas across South Africa (spanning five functional groups to include the extinct species) across a rainfall gradient and different biomes. The distribution of large herbivores would likely have been driven by similar top-down and bottom-up drivers we see in large herbivore ecology today. Knowing this, I created a predictive model for large mammals by predicting the probability of occurrence of functional groups of large herbivores in relation to environmental drivers and humans. Results showed that all species (except Antidorcas australis) were adapted to the grassy environment of the PAP and these specialisations likely contributed to their extinction along with changing climates and intensified hunting from humans. When predicting herbivore viii biomass, biome was the most important factor influencing the relationship between herbivores and rainfall. In general, large herbivore biomass increased with rainfall across biomes, except for grassland. Finally, I showed the probability of occurrence of large herbivores was influenced by early humans, water availability and a landscape of fear on the PAP. Through this thesis I have successfully provided detailed accounts of the biomass and probability of occurrence of large herbivores on the PAP. Importantly, this information can be seamlessly integrated into the PaleoscapeABM. Finally, I highlight the importance of this knowledge in understanding early humans, the potential shortcomings of this study and resulting areas where research needs to be focused. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Perceived success of skills-development readiness within 4IR in RSA
- Authors: Hunt, Norman William
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Labor demand -- Research -- South Africa , Labor supply -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51567 , vital:43310
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop four scenarios for South Africa over the next forty years. The Positive Seed scenario portrays a positive image of hope and determination, with positive institutional innovations, as well as positive innovative learning methodologies. While the Shankar scenario also portrays positive institutional innovations, it is lacking in terms of innovation learning methodologies. The Negative Seed is lacking in both innovation learning methodologies, as well as institutional innovations. Finally, the fourth scenario, that of the ‘What If’ scenario, portrays a scenario whether good innovative learning methodologies exist, or not, but lacks institutional innovativeness. The goal of this thesis was not only to affirm the known and knowable about the skills-development environment, but it is also aimed at exploring its future within the 4IR towards 2060. This was achieved by scenario planning and the Causal Layered Analyses (CLA) methodology, which is designed to help navigate through this creative process. This thesis starts off by identifying the forces of change, which it then combines in various ways to create the set of scenarios about how the future of the skills-development sector could evolve towards 2060. This thesis provides useful insight into drivers for change for the South African skills-development sector and how to anticipate skills-readiness in South Africa within the 4IR towards 2060 in accordance with the CLA and scenario planning methods. This thesis looks at the future of skills-development in South Africa over the next forty years from a decision makers point of view. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Perceptions regarding shared value within the South African mining industry
- Authors: Khubana, Talifhani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Automation , Business planning , Gold mines and mining -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51710 , vital:43365
- Description: Mining has been a key driver of socioeconomic change, economic growth and environmental impact for decades. However, the industry’s volatility and its negative social and environmental effects are sources of concern. In this context, the study investigated the stakeholders’ perceptions of Shared Value (SV) within the mining industry of South Africa. This included establishing antecedents and outcomes of SV within the South African mining industry. The study also aimed to fill the research gap and contribute to the existing body of knowledge regarding the mining industry and SV in South Africa. The comprehensive literature review in this study included discussion on the overview of the South African mining industry, theories related to SV, theoretical perspectives on SV, and the experiential studies supporting the study’s hypothetical model. The empirical investigation conducted by means of a survey was undertaken under the unprecedented conditions of COVID-19 pandemic. The primary data was statistically examined in six phases: exploratory factor analysis (EFA); Cronbach’s alpha; descriptive statistics; Pearson’s product correlation; and regression analysis. The ANOVA was also conducted to determine the influence of demographic factors on SV perceptions. The empirical results confirmed that automation and innovation (through three pillars, namely, innovation for value chain inclusivity, automation and business model innovation, infrastructure development) and employment conditions are the antecedents of SV. The study illustrated three approaches of SV: reconceiving the product/service and markets, reimagining value chain productivity and development of the enabling environment. Furthermore, the study revealed competitive advantage and sustainability performance as the outcomes of SV. This study makes a notable contribution throughout management and strategy practices as it provides insightful guidelines for stakeholders to understand how to adapt and enforce SV strategies, while empirical results could also be utilised by the government as a guide to formulate policies and strategies relating to the mining industry. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Management, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Presidential accountability for cabinet appointments in South Africa
- Authors: Phorego, Molefhi Solomon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Executive power--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51212 , vital:43228
- Description: The President’s power to appoint cabinet members in South Africa constitutes an essential part of the country’s constitutional framework. It is a discretionary power exercised by the President in his capacity as Head of State bestowed on him by the Constitution, which underpins cabinet appointments.The underlying debates in relation to the President’s power to make cabinet appointments lie between justiciability and non-justiciability. In this respect, there are two schools of thought regarding the question whether the exercise of such a power may be the subject of a judicial inquiry, and if so, to what extent. This thesis provides insight into the nature and origin of the President’s power to appoint cabinet members. It also delves deeply into issues raised by the doctrine of separation of powers surrounding the exercise of this power. The core focus of the thesis is on the extent to which the President can be held accountable for making cabinet appointments. The main argument advanced is that because South Africa is a country founded on the principles of constitutional supremacy and the rule of law, every exercise of public power should be subject to the Constitution, including the President’s power to appoint cabinet members. The determination of whether public power is in line with the dictates of the Constitution calls for an independent judiciary, with the power to rule on any aspect of societal disputes. In pursuit of the above, the thesis analyses the constitutional provisions and case law relevant to the President’s powers as Head of State. The research highlights, amongst others, the President’s duty to give reasons for cabinet appointments. On this point it is submitted that the President does have the constitutional obligation to give reasons for cabinet appointments. Comparisons with other jurisdictions on cabinet appointment processes and oversight mechanisms regarding the exercise of that power form the backdrop against which recommendations are made in the thesis. Proposals are advanced for increased legislative oversight in cabinet appointments. Such oversight should focus on inter alia, the President’s duty to furnish reasons for cabinet appointments. The thesis also proposes a constitutional framework in terms of which Parliament plays a role in the selection of appointees to cabinet. The rationale behind this recommendation is the minimising of instances in which the judiciary is accused of overreaching on the powers of the political organs of government. The courts should, however, still retain the power to pronounce whether both the President and Parliament have fulfilled their relevant constitutional obligations in relation to the process of cabinet appointments. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Law, Public Law, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Score driven volatility models based on skewed-t distributions
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Stéfan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , GARCH Model
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52010 , vital:43425
- Description: Score driven (SD) conditional volatility models allow for rich volatility dynamics and realistic distributional assumptions. These models link the evolution of time-varying volatility to the shape of the predictive density, which often results in models that are robust against outliers. These models also allow for conditional skewness. The combination of skewness and robustness may improve in-sample fit, conditional volatility forecasts and tail-risk forecasts. Therefore, this study proposes novel SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. For some of these models, the formof skewness partially negates robustness against outliers. This result demonstrates that the formof skewness requires careful consideration in the specification of SD conditional volatility models. The study also expands upon earlier observations that the assumption of negative conditional skewness may induce a form of volatility asymmetry in SD conditional volatility models that is incompatible with the leverage effect typically observed in equity markets. A simulation experiment shows that neglected leverage, therefore, biases maximum likelihood estimates. Additionally, the study considers SD conditional volatility models that account for leverage effects and have Skewed-t distributed innovations. An empirical application to the daily Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) / Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) All Share Index returns demonstrates the utility of SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. Extensions of these models that account for leverage prove competitive with more traditional conditional volatility models in terms of in-sample fit and tail-risk forecasts. These results suggest that the models considered in this study are useful within the context of financial risk management. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Social-ecological systems approaches to integrated estuarine governance: the Swartkops Estuary
- Authors: Hartmann, Ntombizanele Rebecca
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Aquatic resources conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ecosystem management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Biodiversity conservation -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51483 , vital:43282
- Description: Estuaries are complex systems and should be defined as social-ecological systems. This study investigated whether the Swartkops Estuary was managed as a socialecological system and also argued for the resource to be characterised as a commonpool resource due to its ‘open access’ nature and being utilised by many users. People often live in close proximity to estuarine resources. This means that the ecological component of the estuary cannot be managed separately from the social system. There are feedbacks that result from the interactions taking place between the ecological and social components and these need to be considered. Furthermore, the interactions between humans and estuaries are complex and do not change in a linear, predictable manner. The research methods investigated two research aims: (i) to investigate whether social-ecological systems approaches are currently being adopted in the Swartkops Estuary; and (ii) the sustainable management of the Swartkops Estuary and potentially other estuaries in South Africa. The following research objectives formed the basis of this study: (i) to examine the current management system of the Swartkops Estuary; (ii) to determine and map the social and institutional actors for the Swartkops Estuary; (iii) to analyse the views of local stakeholders, authorities (policy makers) and policy implementers on the use of a social-ecological systems approach in the integrated management of the Swartkops Estuary; and (iv) to illustrate the potential advantages of adopting a social-ecological systems approach for ecosystem services and society. A mixed-method research design was applied in this study using questionnaires, semistructured interviews and focus groups discussions as data collection methods. The ecosystem services approach is one of the accepted approaches that links humans and ecosystems and the results of this study has demonstrated that the habitats of the Swartkops Estuary provide ecosystems systems to various stakeholders. Through the application of the natures’ contribution to peoples lens, this study has shown that estuaries contribute both positively (ecosystem services) and negatively (ecosystem disservices) to people. The findings of this study have revealed that the Swartkops Estuary faces sustainability challenges related to free-riding and the tragedy of the commons dichotomy. The governance of the Swartkops Estuary is weak due to the limited implementation of policy and regulatory requirements. This inadequacy in implementation has led to the overexploitation of living resources in the Swartkops Estuary because the ‘rulesin use’ are not respected and adhered to by users. This study therefore proposes guiding principles and practical implications for each of the following dimensions: (i) social-ecological systems; (ii) common-pool resources; and (iii) governance for integrated sustainable estuarine management. Challenges faced by estuaries are not only of ecological, social or economic nature; they involve a combination of all three. The sustainability of estuaries is therefore complex and requires management and governance that is designed to cope with, and adapt to, the social-ecological system changes. The novel contribution of this study is moving away from the orthodox approaches of examining the Swartkops Estuary by applying the SES approach to assess the governance of the estuary as a common-pool resource. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Humanities, Development Studies, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
South Africa’s auto industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52980 , vital:44901
- Description: South Africa’s automotive industry is a vital element in the country’s economy. This sector has been a strategically important sector in South Africa, and it is imperative to ensure not only the sustainability of the automotive sector in the country, but also the continued growth of the industry. This study addressed the determinants of South Africa’s automotive exports to BRICS countries. The main aim of the study is to examine South Africa’s automotive industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries. An econometric assessment was done using different estimation techniques, namely Dynamic Panel Data General Method of Moments (GMM) on annual data from 2000 to 2016, quantile regression for the same period, and ANOVA analysis. This study used eight endogenous variables in explaining determinants of South African automotive export to BRICS countries. The results from the GMM technique suggested that only four variables out of eight variables were statistically significant, namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), trade openness, and R&D all reduced automotive exports in South Africa. Quantile regression provided difference compared to the GMM dynamic panel data analysis. In the panel data analysis, corporate tax was positive, while in the quantile regression only Brazil’s corporate tax had a positive effect on South African automotive exports. FDI results in panel data GMM results were the same as quantile, while other variables results were not consistence with the dynamic panel data GMM results. The ANOVA results suggested that significant differences between BRICS countries impact on South Africa’s automotive exports. The findings indicate that South African automotive exports to BRICS have been proven to be elastic in four variables., namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. The South African automotive industry implemented policies such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) and the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP); however, these policies failed to realise the targets set by the v industry. On the policies regarding automotive exports in South Africa, it is equally important to pay attention to corporate tax in South Africa as well as in other BRICS countries. BRICS economies lack policy synchronisation, hence the adverse impact on South African automotive exports. South Africa’s BRICS counterparts are knowledge-driven economies. Developing a strong human base is required in the sector. In addition, there is a need for BRICS countries to have a free trade agreement (FTA) to enhance trade amongst member states. Having free trade could help to make BRICS economic integration more meaningful to BRICS countries and the region. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Spatial fisheries management options for inclusion in marine spatial planning in South Africa
- Authors: Reed, Jodie Romay
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52068 , vital:43451
- Description: Integration of sectoral based management into a coherent and coordinated spatial management framework is one of the central challenges of marine spatial planning ȋMSPȌǤ MSP initiatives aim to provide operational frameworks to promote sustainable use of the economic potential of the ocean while maintaining the value of marine biodiversity and the integrity of marine ecosystems to provide servicesǤ The ecosystem services associated with fisheries in terms of food and job provision are some of the most well recognised and highly valued in the marine realm and maintaining these benefits depends on a holistic understanding of the ecosystemǡ human uses and the management thereofǡ including areaǦbased managementǤ In ͲͰͱǡ South Africa was the first African country to enact MSP legislationǤ The development of MSP was advanced through a Presidential ocean economy initiative ȋOperation Phakisaǣ Oceans EconomyȌ that aimed to fast track marine transport and manufacturingǡ aquacultureǡ and the development of oil and gasǡ small harbourǡ and coastal and marine tourismǤ A dedicated ocean governance component was included to develop an overarchingǡ integrated ocean governance frameworkǤ The absence of fisheries in the plans and initiatives was conspicuousǤ The implementation of MSPǡ howeverǡ provides an opportunity to safeguard the ecosystem services provided by fisheries but only if the interests of fisheries can be adequately reflected in spatial plans and analysesǤ Furthermoreǡ the implementation of MSP may provide new opportunities for innovation in spatial approaches to local fisheries management that could address numerous spatial conflicts that have been reportedǤ Integration of spatial fisheries management approaches into MSP can also support the implementation of ecosystemǦbased management ȋEBMȌǡ by including mechanisms such as habitat protectionǡ effective management of areas important for vulnerable life history stagesǡ and bycatch managementǤ This study aimed to identifyǡ assess and further develop spatial management options for fisheries to facilitate the integration of fisheries management and MSPǤ This was achieved by firstlyǡ identifying existing spatial management instruments and assessing the way in which these instruments may be implemented to support spatial fisheries managementǤ Secondlyǡ the application of two contrasting spatial management optionsǡ applied to two pelagic fisheriesǡ was examined to assess their effectiveness at achieving fisheries management objectives with a focus on bycatch reductionǡ while minimising the costs to the fisheries. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Ocean Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Strategies to facilitate the utilisation of child healthcare services in the Nkwanta South Municipality, Ghana
- Authors: Nyande, Felix Kwasi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Child health services -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51439 , vital:43277
- Description: Child health outcomes in Ghana and Sub-Saharan Africa have remained poor compared to other regions of the world. More than half of the global deaths among children under five years of age occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Neonatal and under five child death rates continue to remain high in Ghana, mainly because of the high death rates recorded in the rural areas. Adequate and prompt utilisation of child healthcare services contributes to improved child health outcomes. Despite all the efforts to improve child health, the utilisation of child healthcare services in rural areas in Ghana such as the Nkwanta South Municipality has remained poor. The purpose of this study was therefore to develop strategies that could facilitate the utilisation of child healthcare services by caregivers for their children in need in the Nkwanta South Municipality, Ghana. A qualitative approach, using an exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was implemented for this study. The research comprised the following three phases. Phase One comprised the empirical phase which explored and described the experiences of three groups of participants namely, nurses who rendered child healthcare services in both hospitals and clinics; caregivers of children under five years of age who utilised the available child healthcare services and caregivers of child under five years of age who did not utilise the available child healthcare services. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with these participants and analysed qualitatively according to the six steps outlined in Creswell (2014:197). Four main themes and 10 sub-themes emerged from the data analysis and were presented and discussed. Phase Two consisted of the compilation of the conceptual framework using the survey list by Dickoff, James and Wiendenbach (1968:423). The conceptual framework was compiled based on the findings of the empirical phase and the WHO Health for All model which was the theoretical framework that underpinned this study. The conceptual framework was also later used as the lens for the development and description of the strategies to facilitate the utilisation of child healthcare services by caregivers for their children in need in Phase Three. Phase Three of the study was the final phase of the research and it involved the development and description of the strategies that could be used by nurses to facilitate the use of child healthcare services by caregivers for their children in need in Nkwanta South Municipality, Ghana. Five strategies were developed and described in this phase. The five strategies were: training and deployment of nurses; capacity building for nurses to support quality child healthcare delivery; resourcing healthcare facilities; community engagement and participation and stakeholder collaboration. The evaluation criteria of Chinn and Kramer (2011:197) were used by six experts to evaluate the strategies. The strategies were evaluated and found to be understandable, clear, simple, applicable and significant to nursing practice. It can thus be concluded that the purpose of the study was achieved since strategies were developed to facilitate the utilisation of child healthcare services by caregivers for their children in need in the Nkwanta South Municipality, Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The Effect of Using English as A Language of Learning and Teaching on Learner Academic Performance in Senior Phase of Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Seabela, Marcia Motlatso
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: teaching strategies
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6782 , vital:49059
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of using English as a language of learning and teaching on learner academic performance in the senior phase of Mthatha District, Eastern Cape Province. This study employed a mixed-method approach. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. The study was conducted in 3 semi-rural senior secondary schools that were conveniently selected. The quantitative part employed Likert-type scale questionnaires that were administered to 10 Mathematics (Math), 10 Natural Sciences (NS) and 10 Social Sciences (SS) teachers making a total of 30 teachers and a total of 30 learners from grades 8 and 9. For the qualitative part, nine (9) teachers and eighteen (18) learners from the selected schools were interviewed. The 18 teachers in three schools were observed as they taught Grade 8 and 9 learners in their respective classes. Qualitative data were, thus, gathered through interviews and observations. Quantitative data was collected using Likert-type scale questionnaires and was analysed using descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel. The voice recorded qualitative data from the participant’s responses were transcribed and analysed manually through coding, forming categories and themes that were used for data presentation. These are some of the findings: The majority of learners do not understand English, therefore, it was difficult for them to understand the teaching and learning of the selected subjects in Senior Phase (SP) using English as the language of learning and teaching (LoLT); Although the majority of learners reported that they usually use English as a LoLT and their home language when learning the selected subjects, they still struggled to ask and answer questions in English in a classroom and during examinations; Learners who experience difficulties in learning the selected subjects through the use of English as a LoLT in SP, were taught in their home language (isiXhosa) by their teachers; English and isiXhosa, in the form of code-switching, were used when teaching the selected subjects; Inadequate teacher training and preparation made it more difficult for the learners to perform well in the selected subjects. The study recommends that: The Department of Education should conduct enough workshops to help HOD’s and teachers who teach the selected subjects to keep abreast of new developments in these subjects. These should be integrated with appropriate teaching strategies and learning and teaching support materials. Keywords: English as the language of learning and teaching, teaching strategies, learning, teaching support materials. , Thesis (D.Ed) -- Faculty of Education Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effects of case study teaching on learners’ critical thinking and language literacy skills in Physical Sciences classrooms
- Authors: Mogofe, Romulus Asaph
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Physics--Study and teaching -(Secondary) , Critical thinking--Study and teaching --South africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54669 , vital:47213
- Description: This study investigated the effects of case study teaching on learners’ critical thinking and language literacy skills in Physical Sciences classrooms at secondary school level and whether it could be integrated into the secondary school Physical Sciences lessons without hampering the teaching program. This study is a step in the right direction as it pragmatically attempts to find a constructivism-driven pedagogical strategy that would optimise the attainment of the learning goals of Physical Sciences learners in their various academic settings. To accomplish the research aim, a mixed methods design, in which a non-equivalent (pre-test and post-tests) control-group quasi-experimental design was adopted for quantitative data collection and analysis, and an exploratory case study was adopted for qualitative data collection and analysis. The intervention in the experimental group was case study teaching, whereas in the control group it was the traditional lecture method of teaching science. The topic from the syllabus on which case study teaching was tested was Electricity and Magnetism. The population of the study was all Grade 10 learners studying Physical Sciences in the secondary schools of Sekhukhune East District. The sample consisted of 122 learners from four schools (70 learners from two rural (29 for experimental group and 41 for control group) and 52 from two urban schools (30 experimental group and 22 control group)). Two schools were treated as the experimental groups and the other two as control groups. A multistep sampling process was implemented in selecting the participating schools. Quantitative data was collected using a reading comprehension test, Critical Thinking in Electricity and Magnetism (CTEM) test and a summary writing task that was marked using a Holistic Critical Thinking Scoring Rubric (HCTSR) that was developed by Facione and Facione (1994) and analysed through both descriptive (means) and inferential (two-tailed t-test, Mann Whitney U test and effect size) statistics computed through PSPP statistical pack. Qualitative data was collected through classroom observation (participant observer) in which field notes were kept and face-to-face interviews were conducted, tape recorded and transcribed for analysis. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The implementation of tourism curriculum in secondary schools in Fort Beaufort Education District, Eastern Cape Province: implications for sustainable tourism
- Authors: Mbilini-Kuze, Bukiwe Nomonde Constance
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Education, Secondary -- Curricula , Curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24728 , vital:63536
- Description: This study examined the implementation of Tourism curriculum in Secondary Schools in Fort Beaufort Education District in the Eastern Cape. The study arose from a concern that despite the Government of the Eastern Cape organizing workshops to facilitate the implementation of Tourism curriculum for secondary school teachers, research has shown that teachers have not improved their classroom practice. It discussed the concept of Tourism curriculum implementation and highlighted problems militating against curriculum implementation at secondary school level. The researcher adopted the mixed method methodology which is embedded in the post-positivist research paradigm. The post-positivist research paradigm explains the way things are and views objectivity as an ideal that can never be achieved, however research should be conducted with greater awareness of subjectivity. By combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, it assisted the researcher to strike a balance and avoid being subjective on issues of teacher capacity, teaching strategies and assessment, availability and use of resources and support and monitoring. The research methods used in this study include questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observations. The findings of the study showed that there are limitations in the implementation of Tourism curriculum because of lack of capacity of School management Teams and teachers who are implementing NCS Tourism. Although the teaching strategies and assessment are stipulated in the curriculum document teachers are not using appropriate methods and assessment. Moreover, there are crucial resources and facilities provided by SMTs and the Department of Education to implement Tourism curriculum, inadequate compared to those provided for other subjects. Moreover there are limitations in terms of support (including training) and monitoring systems which are in place to enable the implementation of NCS Tourism. Possible areas for future research were highlighted and recommendations were made, for example the researcher recommends teachers to be trained adequately in order to effectively implement the Tourism curriculum. Teachers should be encouraged to use new learner-centred teaching strategies and resources should be provided in all secondary schools through the combined effort of the government, Fort Beaufort Education district and the School Management Teams (SMTs). Support and monitoring systems should be in place for proper implementation of Tourism curriculum. Tourism industries should contribute through provision of instructional materials and teachers as implementers of the curriculum should be involved in decision-making and curriculum planning. The government should employ enough teachers qualified to teach Tourism. On the other hand subject advisors should be adequately trained to enable them to provide relevant support to teachers in Fort Beaufort secondary schools. All stakeholders should be involved in fostering skills and capacities at local level to develop sustainable Tourism and local development in an integrated way. The study identified a possible an alternative model for the implementation of Tourism curriculum. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2012
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The role of national culture characteristics and business orientations in Tanzanian small business success
- Authors: Chachage, Bukaza Loth
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Success in business -- Tanzania , Small business -- Tanzania , New business enterprises -- Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51061 , vital:43205
- Description: Despite numerous efforts to increase the business success of Tanzanian small businesses, it is still reported that progress in this regard has stagnated. The desired success in the SMME sector, and small businesses, is not being achieved, and is one of the reasons poverty in Tanzania remains significantly high. Researchers have suggested that low-income countries (LICs) such as Tanzania often do not achieve the desired growth of business enterprises due to insufficient attention being paid to issues of national culture and business orientations. Against this background, the purpose of the current study is to contribute to small business success in Tanzania by investigating the role that national culture characteristics (egalitarianism, mastery, harmony, embeddedness, affective autonomy and intellectual autonomy) and business orientations (technology, market and entrepreneurial) play in increasing the business success of Tanzanian small businesses. In this study, business success is defined as the extent to which small businesses effectively manage marketing, operations, human resources and finances. Located in the quantitative research paradigm, and using a mail survey data collection method, a sample of 640 SMMEs was targeted from eight regional economic zones in Tanzania. Of this group, 410 SMMEs, mostly small businesses, participated in the study (response rate = 64%). Instruments based on the works of Burgess (2011) and Schwartz (2004) were used to measure the business orientations and national culture characteristics of the selected Tanzanian small business owners and managers. The instrument developed by the South African Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA 2004) was used to measure small business success. The data analyses in this study included tests for data normalcy and the reliability and validity of the data (using Cronbach ‘s alpha and confirmatory factor analysis, respectively). Furthermore, multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the hypothesised relationships and other research propositions. The results of this study provided sound empirical proof of the interactive influence of national culture characteristics and business orientations on the business success of small businesses. Based on these empirical findings, a proposed framework for small business success in Tanzania was developed. The empirical results of the study provided evidence that support several existing theories, perceptions and beliefs about the relationship between national culture characteristics and business orientations. Certain findings also provided evidence that challenged aspects of existing theories, perceptions and beliefs. The study specifically highlights the importance of the technology and entrepreneurial business orientations as key positive determinants of the effectiveness of all four business functions (marketing, operations, human resources and financial management) investigated in the study. A surprising finding was the significantly negative relationship between market orientation and human resources management. The study also highlighted the centrality of the national characteristics of egalitarianism and intellectual autonomy in the development of the three business orientations (technology, entrepreneurial and market) investigated in the study. The findings suggest that the principle of the equality of people and a commitment to the continuous search and rewarding of new ideas and unique ways of doing things through continuous and professional development are important drivers of critical business orientations among Tanzanian small business owners and managers. The empirical findings furthermore highlighted the importance of mastery as a national culture characteristic. Mastery, which emphasises competence, goal-setting, hard-work, efficiency, effectiveness and self-reliance in attaining goals, influenced the effectiveness of all four business functions and two of the three business orientations investigated in the study. Finally, the study made significant contributions to the understanding of small business success in Tanzania and, arguably, across the African continent. The infusion of these insights into strategies for entrepreneurship development will go a long way to building successful businesses in the small business sector. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The use of psychology in roman catholic seminary admissions in Southern Africa
- Authors: Mitchell, Gregory Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Catholic Church -- Africa, Southern -- Psychological aspects -- Congresses
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51344 , vital:43266
- Description: Psychological assessment forms part of Roman Catholic seminary admissions in Southern Africa. The present study sought to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of the role, purpose, and nature of the use of psychology in Roman Catholic seminary admissions in the territory of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference. A qualitative research design was selected, which utilised the grounded theory method. Church authorities and clinicians, recruited by means of purposive snowball sampling, were interviewed in individual semi-structured interviews. The findings were interpreted in relation to the narrative of a vocation to the Roman Catholic priesthood, international practice guidelines, as well as literature regarding the context of the Southern African Roman Catholic Church. Proposed guidelines for this process in Southern Africa were generated based on the experiences of the participants and this iterative process of thematic analysis. Potential guidelines, grounded in the research data, emerged in the following focus areas: the vocation to the priesthood, contextual and systemic factors, the clinician, the assessment process, factors to be assessed, the psychological report, the decision to admit to seminary, feedback, and psychology in formation. These are recommended to the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference in draft form to be implemented in a participatory manner. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04