Exploring Grade 12 biology teachers' perceptions and experiences of the dissemination and utilization of Examiners' reports in the Khomas region of Namibia: a case study
- Authors: Bezuidenhoudt, Anthea
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Biology -- Examinations -- Namibia , Biology -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017332
- Description: Teachers’ perceptions are that currently dissemination in schools is ineffective and must change. The tensions that surround the dissemination of the reports are late arrival of Examiners’ reports which clash with preparation of learners for the first term examinations. Furthermore, the time the Examiners’ reports get into teachers’ hands are late and thus result in teachers rushing through it to incorporate the recommendations given in it in the second term or in some instances teachers do not attend to it at all. The number of copies of the Examiners’ reports provided to schools appears to be inadequate. HODs still having to duplicate reports before disseminating them add to their work load and further delay dissemination of the reports to individual subject teachers. Although the teaching and learning approach in Namibian classrooms should be based on LCE, dissemination of the actual physical reports are currently restricted to teachers only with them only verbally communicating feedback given in the reports to their learners. Support in dissemination of Examiners’ reports from peers and superiors in the majority of the schools appear to be lacking. Changes would like to be seen in the timing the Examiners’ reports are available at schools, the number of hard copies provided to schools and exploring and embarking on alternative ways of disseminating the reports. The percentage of utilization of the Examiners’ reports is relatively high, yet still not the optimum. A reasonable number of Namibian learners are disadvantaged and not exposed to a source of information that can make their Biology learning more efficient because some of their teachers are not using Examiners’ reports in their teaching. The main reason for non-utilization of the reports by Biology teachers is a result of inefficient dissemination at individual schools. The argument being that if the reports are not given to the teachers they and especially novice teachers will not know about the existence of this useful teaching and learning resource. Examiners’ reports are an important and systematic impartial source of high quality data on learning in the Namibian education system. Therefore, effective dissemination and utilization of the reports must be advocated and strengthened. DNEA and the Khomas regional office should embark on tapping into available development in information technology by doing research into the possibility of disseminating the Examiners’ reports electronically. A pilot in this regard should be conducted in the Khomas region as a measure to ensure dissemination can become more efficient in the future. To ensure that teachers optimally utilize the Examiners’ reports, they should be provided to schools when the school first term commences. The Khomas regional office should strengthen their involvement in utilization by arranging annual workshops where the content of the reports can be discussed to ensure that the feedback given in the reports can aid in developing and strengthening Biology teachers’ subject content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. Optimal utilization of Examiners’ reports can enable mediation in learners which can ensure effective learning and mastery of Biology by learners which can ultimately lead to an improvement in pass rate in Biology. Therefore, appropriate support to aid teachers’ professional development can enhance maximum utilization. Furthermore, an area for future research could be to give the Examiners’ reports to learners to determine the impact it has on their learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Bezuidenhoudt, Anthea
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Biology -- Examinations -- Namibia , Biology -- Study and teaching -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017332
- Description: Teachers’ perceptions are that currently dissemination in schools is ineffective and must change. The tensions that surround the dissemination of the reports are late arrival of Examiners’ reports which clash with preparation of learners for the first term examinations. Furthermore, the time the Examiners’ reports get into teachers’ hands are late and thus result in teachers rushing through it to incorporate the recommendations given in it in the second term or in some instances teachers do not attend to it at all. The number of copies of the Examiners’ reports provided to schools appears to be inadequate. HODs still having to duplicate reports before disseminating them add to their work load and further delay dissemination of the reports to individual subject teachers. Although the teaching and learning approach in Namibian classrooms should be based on LCE, dissemination of the actual physical reports are currently restricted to teachers only with them only verbally communicating feedback given in the reports to their learners. Support in dissemination of Examiners’ reports from peers and superiors in the majority of the schools appear to be lacking. Changes would like to be seen in the timing the Examiners’ reports are available at schools, the number of hard copies provided to schools and exploring and embarking on alternative ways of disseminating the reports. The percentage of utilization of the Examiners’ reports is relatively high, yet still not the optimum. A reasonable number of Namibian learners are disadvantaged and not exposed to a source of information that can make their Biology learning more efficient because some of their teachers are not using Examiners’ reports in their teaching. The main reason for non-utilization of the reports by Biology teachers is a result of inefficient dissemination at individual schools. The argument being that if the reports are not given to the teachers they and especially novice teachers will not know about the existence of this useful teaching and learning resource. Examiners’ reports are an important and systematic impartial source of high quality data on learning in the Namibian education system. Therefore, effective dissemination and utilization of the reports must be advocated and strengthened. DNEA and the Khomas regional office should embark on tapping into available development in information technology by doing research into the possibility of disseminating the Examiners’ reports electronically. A pilot in this regard should be conducted in the Khomas region as a measure to ensure dissemination can become more efficient in the future. To ensure that teachers optimally utilize the Examiners’ reports, they should be provided to schools when the school first term commences. The Khomas regional office should strengthen their involvement in utilization by arranging annual workshops where the content of the reports can be discussed to ensure that the feedback given in the reports can aid in developing and strengthening Biology teachers’ subject content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. Optimal utilization of Examiners’ reports can enable mediation in learners which can ensure effective learning and mastery of Biology by learners which can ultimately lead to an improvement in pass rate in Biology. Therefore, appropriate support to aid teachers’ professional development can enhance maximum utilization. Furthermore, an area for future research could be to give the Examiners’ reports to learners to determine the impact it has on their learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring lecturer experiences of the use of ICT in blended learning : a case study at a South African university
- Authors: Ntlabathi, Siyanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Technological innovations , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa , Internet in education -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa , Critical realism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017355
- Description: ICTs have had a tremendous impact on our educational environment. There have been a huge number of developments and support in implementation of ICT in Higher Education teaching and learning, also referred to as e-learning. Similarly there appears to be quite a number of research conducted on the use of ICTs in blended learning settings worldwide and as well as in South Africa. Very little research however, has focussed on the experiences of lecturers with e-learning, specifically as it relates to Learning Management Systems (LMS). In trying to meet the requirements of its academic programmes and be in line with new developments worldwide, the University which is the focus of this study pilot projected the use of an LMS in a blended learning approach which integrates face-to-face classes with Blackboard, an ICT-based system or tool. Following the implementation of the pilot project, this study explores the experiences of lecturers in their blended learning environments at this university in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The research design was that of an interpretative paradigm within a qualitative research approach in a case study methodology. Purposive sampling of six lecturers from departments within faculties across two campuses was done. The data was gathered through interviews, a follow-up questionnaire and document analysis was employed. Using Critical and Social Realism as meta-theories the study employed aspects of Activity Theory as substantive theory to understand particular experiences of blended learning environments and identify conditions which enable and constrain engagement in these environments so as to explore potential lessons to inform the kind of educational support which could be offered to facilitate uptake of the LMS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ntlabathi, Siyanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Technological innovations , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa , Internet in education -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa , Critical realism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017355
- Description: ICTs have had a tremendous impact on our educational environment. There have been a huge number of developments and support in implementation of ICT in Higher Education teaching and learning, also referred to as e-learning. Similarly there appears to be quite a number of research conducted on the use of ICTs in blended learning settings worldwide and as well as in South Africa. Very little research however, has focussed on the experiences of lecturers with e-learning, specifically as it relates to Learning Management Systems (LMS). In trying to meet the requirements of its academic programmes and be in line with new developments worldwide, the University which is the focus of this study pilot projected the use of an LMS in a blended learning approach which integrates face-to-face classes with Blackboard, an ICT-based system or tool. Following the implementation of the pilot project, this study explores the experiences of lecturers in their blended learning environments at this university in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The research design was that of an interpretative paradigm within a qualitative research approach in a case study methodology. Purposive sampling of six lecturers from departments within faculties across two campuses was done. The data was gathered through interviews, a follow-up questionnaire and document analysis was employed. Using Critical and Social Realism as meta-theories the study employed aspects of Activity Theory as substantive theory to understand particular experiences of blended learning environments and identify conditions which enable and constrain engagement in these environments so as to explore potential lessons to inform the kind of educational support which could be offered to facilitate uptake of the LMS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring of a succession planning framework for women in the South African aviation industry
- Authors: Hoffman, Confidence Lydia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women executives , Women in development , Women -- Employment , Sex role in the work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8272 , vital:26318
- Description: Women globally are seen as key contributors to the economic development and ‘bottom-line’ of businesses, but their presence and representation is still lacking in senior positions and the boardroom. Although after 20 years of democracy, the South African government has made significant progress towards empowering women in all spheres of business, inequalities and imbalances remain huge stumbling blocks. Embracing diversity and advocating gender equality makes business sense; this includes developing women as leaders through effectively implementing succession planning. Research shows that most companies have a succession plan document in place, but whether it is correctly implemented and effective remains to be investigated. A company’s leadership and human resources management together need to create a robust succession planning framework which aligns the vision of the company and talent management. The purpose of this research study was to determine the perceived success of succession planning for women in businesses in South Africa. The study’s primary objective was to develop and explore a succession planning framework for women in the South African Aviation Industry. A detailed literature review was conducted on women in business, leadership and succession planning. A qualitative case study approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study to test whether the six propositions developed by the researcher applied to this single case or not. A questionnaire was developed to be used as a guide when interviewing the female respondents. The results were analysed and based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research. The main finding of this research was that the selected company lacks the correct implementation of the succession planning process. A possible solution to this issue would be the recruitment of a succession planning coordinator who has strong knowledge of the company’s policies, procedures and culture to establish strategies to roll out the succession planning programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Hoffman, Confidence Lydia
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Women executives , Women in development , Women -- Employment , Sex role in the work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8272 , vital:26318
- Description: Women globally are seen as key contributors to the economic development and ‘bottom-line’ of businesses, but their presence and representation is still lacking in senior positions and the boardroom. Although after 20 years of democracy, the South African government has made significant progress towards empowering women in all spheres of business, inequalities and imbalances remain huge stumbling blocks. Embracing diversity and advocating gender equality makes business sense; this includes developing women as leaders through effectively implementing succession planning. Research shows that most companies have a succession plan document in place, but whether it is correctly implemented and effective remains to be investigated. A company’s leadership and human resources management together need to create a robust succession planning framework which aligns the vision of the company and talent management. The purpose of this research study was to determine the perceived success of succession planning for women in businesses in South Africa. The study’s primary objective was to develop and explore a succession planning framework for women in the South African Aviation Industry. A detailed literature review was conducted on women in business, leadership and succession planning. A qualitative case study approach was used as the most appropriate research methodology for this study to test whether the six propositions developed by the researcher applied to this single case or not. A questionnaire was developed to be used as a guide when interviewing the female respondents. The results were analysed and based on the findings, recommendations were made for further research. The main finding of this research was that the selected company lacks the correct implementation of the succession planning process. A possible solution to this issue would be the recruitment of a succession planning coordinator who has strong knowledge of the company’s policies, procedures and culture to establish strategies to roll out the succession planning programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring problematic experiences : an IPA study of 'Internet Addiction'
- Authors: Allie, Naaheeda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Internet addiction , Compulsive behavior , Security (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3256 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016395
- Description: In the past two decades, a considerable amount of research has been carried out on the phenomenon of excessive Internet use, variously termed Internet addiction, Internet dependency and problematic Internet use. Despite this, there is still little agreement as to what constitutes this phenomenon, whether it should be considered a clinical disorder or not and what leads to this excessive or maladaptive use. The terminology used in this study is that of Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Several theoretical models have been proposed in the understanding of PIU including personality models, operant conditioning models, social cognitive and cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; LaRose, lin & Eastin, 2003; Young, 1999). A proposed gap in the literature is the lack of studies exploring participant experiences of problematic Internet use. It is for this reason that this study aimed at exploring the experiences of a small sample of individuals with self-identified problematic Internet use. The implications of this phenomenological data for the above-mentioned theoretical models were then reviewed. This study used an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach in exploring these aims. A sample of four participants was selected through purposive sampling techniques. Four major themes emerged from the analysis namely: Escapism, Social Insecurity and Validation, Perfectionism and Control. These experiences of participants were also explored in terms of the conceptual models reviewed in order to compare how closely they related to participant experiences. A strong inter-relationship was found between the four themes mentioned above. The Internet appeared to provide a sense of control and validation to these individuals while simultaneously rendering them unable to maintain control of their Internet usage in relation to this. This sense of control was experienced through an escape from negative emotions, offline obligations and at times a dissatisfactory position in reality. Of the four models reviewed, the Social Cognitive model proposed by LaRose et al. (2003) appeared to offer the most relevant understanding of PIU to participant experiences. The presence of maladaptive cognitions also appeared to feature strongly as an underlying factor in participants' PIU, as theorised by cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; Young, 1999) Finally recommendations are made for further more detailed exploration of PIU using interpretative, experiential methods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Allie, Naaheeda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Internet addiction , Compulsive behavior , Security (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3256 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016395
- Description: In the past two decades, a considerable amount of research has been carried out on the phenomenon of excessive Internet use, variously termed Internet addiction, Internet dependency and problematic Internet use. Despite this, there is still little agreement as to what constitutes this phenomenon, whether it should be considered a clinical disorder or not and what leads to this excessive or maladaptive use. The terminology used in this study is that of Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Several theoretical models have been proposed in the understanding of PIU including personality models, operant conditioning models, social cognitive and cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; LaRose, lin & Eastin, 2003; Young, 1999). A proposed gap in the literature is the lack of studies exploring participant experiences of problematic Internet use. It is for this reason that this study aimed at exploring the experiences of a small sample of individuals with self-identified problematic Internet use. The implications of this phenomenological data for the above-mentioned theoretical models were then reviewed. This study used an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach in exploring these aims. A sample of four participants was selected through purposive sampling techniques. Four major themes emerged from the analysis namely: Escapism, Social Insecurity and Validation, Perfectionism and Control. These experiences of participants were also explored in terms of the conceptual models reviewed in order to compare how closely they related to participant experiences. A strong inter-relationship was found between the four themes mentioned above. The Internet appeared to provide a sense of control and validation to these individuals while simultaneously rendering them unable to maintain control of their Internet usage in relation to this. This sense of control was experienced through an escape from negative emotions, offline obligations and at times a dissatisfactory position in reality. Of the four models reviewed, the Social Cognitive model proposed by LaRose et al. (2003) appeared to offer the most relevant understanding of PIU to participant experiences. The presence of maladaptive cognitions also appeared to feature strongly as an underlying factor in participants' PIU, as theorised by cognitive behavioural models (Davis, 2001; Young, 1999) Finally recommendations are made for further more detailed exploration of PIU using interpretative, experiential methods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the development of an integrated, participative, water quality management process for the Crocodile River catchment, focusing on the sugar industry
- Authors: Sahula, Asiphe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Water quality management -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Watersheds -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Integrated water development -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality management -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6051 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017876
- Description: Water quality deterioration is reaching crisis proportions in South Africa. Many South African catchments are over-allocated, and decreasing volumes of source water mean increasing concentrations of pollutants. The Crocodile River Catchment in the Mpumalanga province in South Africa was identified through previous research, as a catchment faced with deteriorating source water quality for water users in the catchment. Poor source water quality has become a sufficiently acute concern for the stakeholders in this catchment to co-operate in developing a process that assists with compliance control of their water use and waste disposal to reduce costs, decrease industrial risks as water quality compliance increases, and improve source water quality. The sugar industry is downstream within the Crocodile River Catchment, and is affected by the activities of all upstream water users; the industry is thus dependent on the stakeholders upstream participating in the effective management of the resource. However, the sugar industry is also located just before the confluence of the Crocodile River and Komati River upstream of the Mozambique border, and thus the water quality of the sugar industry effluent will affect the quality of the water that flows into Mozambique. The sugar industry is on the opposite river bank to the Kruger National Park, which has high water resource protection goals. Therefore, the sugar industry has a national role to play in the management of water resources in the Crocodile River Catchment. This study provides a focused view of the role of the sugar industry in the development of a co-operative, integrated water quality management process (IWQMP) in the Crocodile River Catchment. In order to address the objectives of this study, this research drew from an understanding of the social processes that influence water management practices within the sugar industry as well as social processes that influence the role of the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency as the main governing institution in water resource management in the Inkomati Water Management Area. The study also drew from an understanding of scientific knowledge in terms of a water chemistry which describes the upstream and downstream water quality impacts related to the sugar industry. The water quality analysis for the Lower Crocodile River Catchment shows a decline in water quality in terms of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) loads when moving from below Mbombela to the Mozambique border. The major sources of TDS in the Lower Crocodile River are point source dominated, which may be attributed to the extensive mining, industrial and municipal activities that occur across the catchment. When observing Total Alkalinity (TAL) and pH values from below Mbombela to the furthest monitoring point, there is deterioration in the quality of the water in the Lower Crocodile River, with the Kaap River contributing a negative effect that is diluted by the Crocodile main stem. The Hectorspruit Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) (located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment) contributes high concentrations of TDS and TAL into the Crocodile River. Total Inorganic Nitrogen and Soluble Reactive Phosphorus concentrations decrease in the lower reaches of the Crocodile River compared with the river below Mbombela, which can be attributed to the extensive sugar cane plantations located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment acting as an “agricultural wetland” that serves a function of bioremediation resulting in large scale absorption of nutrients. This is an interesting result as earlier assumptions were that fertiliser application would result in an overall increase in nutrient loads and concentrations. Biomonitoring data show no substantial change in aquatic health in the LowerCrocodile River Catchment. For a catchment that has an extensive agricultural land use in terms of sugarcane and citrus production, the Crocodile River is unexpectedly not in a toxic state in terms of aquatic health. This is a positive result and it suggests that pesticide use is strictly controlled in the sugar and citrus industry in the Crocodile River Catchment. For long term sustainability, it is essential for the sugar industry to maintain (and possibly improve) this pesticide management. The social component of this study aimed to provide an analysis of the management practices of the sugar mill as well as examining agricultural practices in the sugar cane fields in relation to water quality management through the use of Cultural Historical Activity System Theory (CHAT). This component showed that there are contradictions within the sugar industry activity system that are considered to be areas of “tension” that can be loosened or focused on to improve the contribution the sugar industry can make to the IWQMP. Surfacing contradictions within the sugar industry activity system and the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency activity systems highlighted areas of potential for learning and change. While an understanding of biophysical processes through scientific knowledge is critical in water management decision making, it is evident that an understanding of other actors, institutions and networks that inform water quality management decision-making also plays a significant role. The notion of improving the role of scientific or biophysical knowledge in contributing to socio-ecologically robust knowledge co-creation, decisions and actions towards resolving water quality problems is emphasised. Specifically, moving towards improving interactions between scientists and other actors (water users in the Crocodile Catchment in this case), so that scientific practices become more orientated towards societal platforms where water quality management is tackled to enable improved water quality management practices. Therefore, linking the social and biophysical components in this study provides a holistic understanding of how the sugar industry can contribute to the development of an IWQMP for the Crocodile River catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Sahula, Asiphe
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Water quality management -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Watersheds -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Integrated water development -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality management -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga) , Water quality -- South Africa -- Krokodilrivier (Mpumalanga)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6051 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017876
- Description: Water quality deterioration is reaching crisis proportions in South Africa. Many South African catchments are over-allocated, and decreasing volumes of source water mean increasing concentrations of pollutants. The Crocodile River Catchment in the Mpumalanga province in South Africa was identified through previous research, as a catchment faced with deteriorating source water quality for water users in the catchment. Poor source water quality has become a sufficiently acute concern for the stakeholders in this catchment to co-operate in developing a process that assists with compliance control of their water use and waste disposal to reduce costs, decrease industrial risks as water quality compliance increases, and improve source water quality. The sugar industry is downstream within the Crocodile River Catchment, and is affected by the activities of all upstream water users; the industry is thus dependent on the stakeholders upstream participating in the effective management of the resource. However, the sugar industry is also located just before the confluence of the Crocodile River and Komati River upstream of the Mozambique border, and thus the water quality of the sugar industry effluent will affect the quality of the water that flows into Mozambique. The sugar industry is on the opposite river bank to the Kruger National Park, which has high water resource protection goals. Therefore, the sugar industry has a national role to play in the management of water resources in the Crocodile River Catchment. This study provides a focused view of the role of the sugar industry in the development of a co-operative, integrated water quality management process (IWQMP) in the Crocodile River Catchment. In order to address the objectives of this study, this research drew from an understanding of the social processes that influence water management practices within the sugar industry as well as social processes that influence the role of the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency as the main governing institution in water resource management in the Inkomati Water Management Area. The study also drew from an understanding of scientific knowledge in terms of a water chemistry which describes the upstream and downstream water quality impacts related to the sugar industry. The water quality analysis for the Lower Crocodile River Catchment shows a decline in water quality in terms of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) loads when moving from below Mbombela to the Mozambique border. The major sources of TDS in the Lower Crocodile River are point source dominated, which may be attributed to the extensive mining, industrial and municipal activities that occur across the catchment. When observing Total Alkalinity (TAL) and pH values from below Mbombela to the furthest monitoring point, there is deterioration in the quality of the water in the Lower Crocodile River, with the Kaap River contributing a negative effect that is diluted by the Crocodile main stem. The Hectorspruit Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) (located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment) contributes high concentrations of TDS and TAL into the Crocodile River. Total Inorganic Nitrogen and Soluble Reactive Phosphorus concentrations decrease in the lower reaches of the Crocodile River compared with the river below Mbombela, which can be attributed to the extensive sugar cane plantations located in the Lower Crocodile River Catchment acting as an “agricultural wetland” that serves a function of bioremediation resulting in large scale absorption of nutrients. This is an interesting result as earlier assumptions were that fertiliser application would result in an overall increase in nutrient loads and concentrations. Biomonitoring data show no substantial change in aquatic health in the LowerCrocodile River Catchment. For a catchment that has an extensive agricultural land use in terms of sugarcane and citrus production, the Crocodile River is unexpectedly not in a toxic state in terms of aquatic health. This is a positive result and it suggests that pesticide use is strictly controlled in the sugar and citrus industry in the Crocodile River Catchment. For long term sustainability, it is essential for the sugar industry to maintain (and possibly improve) this pesticide management. The social component of this study aimed to provide an analysis of the management practices of the sugar mill as well as examining agricultural practices in the sugar cane fields in relation to water quality management through the use of Cultural Historical Activity System Theory (CHAT). This component showed that there are contradictions within the sugar industry activity system that are considered to be areas of “tension” that can be loosened or focused on to improve the contribution the sugar industry can make to the IWQMP. Surfacing contradictions within the sugar industry activity system and the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency activity systems highlighted areas of potential for learning and change. While an understanding of biophysical processes through scientific knowledge is critical in water management decision making, it is evident that an understanding of other actors, institutions and networks that inform water quality management decision-making also plays a significant role. The notion of improving the role of scientific or biophysical knowledge in contributing to socio-ecologically robust knowledge co-creation, decisions and actions towards resolving water quality problems is emphasised. Specifically, moving towards improving interactions between scientists and other actors (water users in the Crocodile Catchment in this case), so that scientific practices become more orientated towards societal platforms where water quality management is tackled to enable improved water quality management practices. Therefore, linking the social and biophysical components in this study provides a holistic understanding of how the sugar industry can contribute to the development of an IWQMP for the Crocodile River catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children : the case of Mlungisi Township in Queenstown
- Authors: Ntsumpa, SL
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Family violence Abused children--South Africa Children and violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17338 , vital:40957
- Description: The main aim of the study was to explore the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children at Mlungisi Township, Chris Hani District in Queenstown – Eastern Cape Province. The specific objectives of the study were: to investigate the effect domestic violence has on the psychosocial development of children; to assess the behavior of the children subjected to domestic violence; and to examine challenges that children are facing due to domestic violence; and to examine the support provided by professionals (Social works, community worker, educator, South African Police and Justice System) to children who are victims of domestic violence. The study adopted a qualitative research paradigm and non-probability sampling methodology in the form of purposive sampling technique. The study‟s sample size comprised of 20 participants, 7 male children between the ages of 9 and 16, and 8 female children between the ages of 9 and 16 on in-depth one-on-one interviews. Five children withdrew from the study because they became emotional and were reluctant to participate. The study also comprised of 5 participants in a focus group which composed of various professionals from government departments such as: Department of Social Development, Department of Education, South African Police Services, Lukhanji Municipality and Justice Official who are directly working with children. The research instrument used was an interview guide with open ended questions. The study findings include the following: effects of domestic violence on the psychosocial development of children; challenges faced by children due to domestic violence; behaviors of children subjected to domestic violence; support services; efficiency and effectiveness of services rendered to the children; and improvement of services rendered to the victims by government officials. The study recommendations were: more studies on domestic violence specifically on children as victims should be done; policy regarding domestic violence needs to be reviewed and in order to accommodate children; there should be policies that focus solemnly to children who happen to be victims of domestic violence not domestic violence in general; and government departments and other relevant stakeholder should be strengthened or even develop new intervention strategies to ensure effectiveness in curbing domestic violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ntsumpa, SL
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Family violence Abused children--South Africa Children and violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17338 , vital:40957
- Description: The main aim of the study was to explore the effects of domestic violence in the psychosocial development of children at Mlungisi Township, Chris Hani District in Queenstown – Eastern Cape Province. The specific objectives of the study were: to investigate the effect domestic violence has on the psychosocial development of children; to assess the behavior of the children subjected to domestic violence; and to examine challenges that children are facing due to domestic violence; and to examine the support provided by professionals (Social works, community worker, educator, South African Police and Justice System) to children who are victims of domestic violence. The study adopted a qualitative research paradigm and non-probability sampling methodology in the form of purposive sampling technique. The study‟s sample size comprised of 20 participants, 7 male children between the ages of 9 and 16, and 8 female children between the ages of 9 and 16 on in-depth one-on-one interviews. Five children withdrew from the study because they became emotional and were reluctant to participate. The study also comprised of 5 participants in a focus group which composed of various professionals from government departments such as: Department of Social Development, Department of Education, South African Police Services, Lukhanji Municipality and Justice Official who are directly working with children. The research instrument used was an interview guide with open ended questions. The study findings include the following: effects of domestic violence on the psychosocial development of children; challenges faced by children due to domestic violence; behaviors of children subjected to domestic violence; support services; efficiency and effectiveness of services rendered to the children; and improvement of services rendered to the victims by government officials. The study recommendations were: more studies on domestic violence specifically on children as victims should be done; policy regarding domestic violence needs to be reviewed and in order to accommodate children; there should be policies that focus solemnly to children who happen to be victims of domestic violence not domestic violence in general; and government departments and other relevant stakeholder should be strengthened or even develop new intervention strategies to ensure effectiveness in curbing domestic violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the effects of the psychological contract on organisational commitment and employee engagement in a restructured organisational environment: the case of selected hospitals in the Eastern Cape province
- Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Authors: Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Psychology, Industrial -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1984 , vital:27591
- Description: This study investigated the impact of organisation restructuring on the psychological contract and the effects on employee engagement and organisational commitment. The study focused on employees from selected health care institutions. The sample consisted of 156 employees from the selected health care institutions. Results indicated positive relationships between employee engagement, psychological contract and organisational commitment. The researcher recommended a better understanding of the manner in which individuals interpret various inducements where would clearer prescriptions be provided. Therefore, employers were advised to be aware of employees’ values and attempt to address them as they are important
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Stofile, Phakama Phumla Bernadette
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Psychology, Industrial -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1984 , vital:27591
- Description: This study investigated the impact of organisation restructuring on the psychological contract and the effects on employee engagement and organisational commitment. The study focused on employees from selected health care institutions. The sample consisted of 156 employees from the selected health care institutions. Results indicated positive relationships between employee engagement, psychological contract and organisational commitment. The researcher recommended a better understanding of the manner in which individuals interpret various inducements where would clearer prescriptions be provided. Therefore, employers were advised to be aware of employees’ values and attempt to address them as they are important
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the lived experiences of South African maladaptive gamblers
- Authors: Tennant, Charnel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gambling -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Gambling industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5021 , vital:20792
- Description: For many individuals, gambling is regarded as a recreational activity, a socially encompassed pastime. For the individuals who partook in the present study, gambling is an Achilles heel at which the individuals were hopelessly at the mercy of. Initially a ‘fun’ activity, gambling emerged as an activity that provided both an aspect of enjoyment and escapism. Later, as the behaviour increased, interpersonal and intrapersonal consequences emerged; which eventually led participants to take action and break free from the activity once experienced as recreational and now as a “monster”. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience of six South African individuals who met the criteria for a gambling disorder. Both a phenomenological approach and ecological perspective were used to elicit the essence of this particular phenomenon as experienced by the participants. Purposive sampling procedures were implemented. Data was collected through the use of a biographical questionnaire and individual, open ended conversations with six gamblers. The data was processed and analysed according to qualitative data processing and analysis procedures. Due to the gap in qualitative research in this particular area, specifically in the South African context, this research study has the potential to create a better understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction through the shared experiences of participants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Tennant, Charnel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Gambling -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Gambling -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Gambling industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5021 , vital:20792
- Description: For many individuals, gambling is regarded as a recreational activity, a socially encompassed pastime. For the individuals who partook in the present study, gambling is an Achilles heel at which the individuals were hopelessly at the mercy of. Initially a ‘fun’ activity, gambling emerged as an activity that provided both an aspect of enjoyment and escapism. Later, as the behaviour increased, interpersonal and intrapersonal consequences emerged; which eventually led participants to take action and break free from the activity once experienced as recreational and now as a “monster”. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience of six South African individuals who met the criteria for a gambling disorder. Both a phenomenological approach and ecological perspective were used to elicit the essence of this particular phenomenon as experienced by the participants. Purposive sampling procedures were implemented. Data was collected through the use of a biographical questionnaire and individual, open ended conversations with six gamblers. The data was processed and analysed according to qualitative data processing and analysis procedures. Due to the gap in qualitative research in this particular area, specifically in the South African context, this research study has the potential to create a better understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction through the shared experiences of participants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Côte D'Ivoire
- Authors: Kpalou, Jean-Yves
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social status -- Côte d'Ivoire , Postwar reconstruction -- Côte d'Ivoire , Côte d'Ivoire -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3205 , vital:20411
- Description: Cote d’Ivoire is a country located in West Africa, which is coming out from decades of political and military crises (2002-2011). The country is now coping with its phase of postconflict reconstruction and economic development. One of the important aspects of this phase is the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants who took part in the different conflicts. For this reason the aim of this study was to explore the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire. Taking the aim of this study into consideration, the primary objectives were to first look at the situation of the socioeconomic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire and secondly to identify challenges affecting the socio-economic reintegration process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kpalou, Jean-Yves
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social status -- Côte d'Ivoire , Postwar reconstruction -- Côte d'Ivoire , Côte d'Ivoire -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3205 , vital:20411
- Description: Cote d’Ivoire is a country located in West Africa, which is coming out from decades of political and military crises (2002-2011). The country is now coping with its phase of postconflict reconstruction and economic development. One of the important aspects of this phase is the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants who took part in the different conflicts. For this reason the aim of this study was to explore the socio-economic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire. Taking the aim of this study into consideration, the primary objectives were to first look at the situation of the socioeconomic reintegration of former combatants in Cote d’Ivoire and secondly to identify challenges affecting the socio-economic reintegration process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring the uses of mental skills by competitive road running athletes
- Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Authors: Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Long-distance runners -- Psychology , Long-distance running -- Psychological aspects , Competition (Psychology) , Long-distance running -- Training , Marathon running -- Psychological aspects , Goal (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020310
- Description: Research on athletes has shown that mental skills are an important component of being a successful athlete. The importance of these mental skills is seen in the number of athletes who have formally started training using mental skills training programmes (MST) according to the literature. The study of mental skills in South Africa lags behind other countries like USA, UK and Sweden. This particular study explored the use of mental skills by road running athletes. The study was conducted with six competitive marathon athletes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of an elaborate qualitative methodology design. The data collected from these semi-structured interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The results show that road running athletes use mental skills that include; mental rehearsal, planning, goal setting and self-talk. The athletes in this research showed the importance of mental skills and it is recommended that formal training in these mental skills will be highly beneficial not only to road running athletes but for all South African sports people in general
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ngobese, Khayelihle Mbongeleni Emmanuel
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Long-distance runners -- Psychology , Long-distance running -- Psychological aspects , Competition (Psychology) , Long-distance running -- Training , Marathon running -- Psychological aspects , Goal (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3268 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020310
- Description: Research on athletes has shown that mental skills are an important component of being a successful athlete. The importance of these mental skills is seen in the number of athletes who have formally started training using mental skills training programmes (MST) according to the literature. The study of mental skills in South Africa lags behind other countries like USA, UK and Sweden. This particular study explored the use of mental skills by road running athletes. The study was conducted with six competitive marathon athletes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of an elaborate qualitative methodology design. The data collected from these semi-structured interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The results show that road running athletes use mental skills that include; mental rehearsal, planning, goal setting and self-talk. The athletes in this research showed the importance of mental skills and it is recommended that formal training in these mental skills will be highly beneficial not only to road running athletes but for all South African sports people in general
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring user experience (UX) factors For ICTD services
- Authors: Nyambi, Pride Bongiwe
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11400 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020164
- Description: Consistent with global entities such as the United Nations- through the World Summit of the Information Society (WSIS), introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for human development has seen the introduction of ICT-based services aimed at facilitating socio-economic development of marginalized communities. The use of ICTs has always solicited the concept of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), which involves the methods which humans interact with technology. The types of User Interfaces (UIs) and interaction techniques that people use to interact with ICTs affects the way they perceive technology and eventually, their acceptance of the technology. Current ICT systems still haven‟t adopted the concept of placing the user at the core of the interaction. Users are still required to adapt themselves to the interface‟s characteristics; which limits the number of people who can use the system due to inabilities to adapt to the interface. As a result, the information embedded in these technologies is still inaccessible and useless to Marginalized Rural Area (MRA) users. Such usability challenges can be mitigated against and avoided by matching UI components with the users‟ mental models, language, preferences, needs and other socio-cultural artefacts. In this research, literature in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is reviewed with emphasis on the usability and User Experience (UX) during user interaction with ICTs using various modes of interactions. HCI emphasizes the need for systems to take account of user‟s characteristics such as their abilities, needs, socio-cultural experiences, behaviours and interests. In efforts to meet the requirement of UX, the user, system and the context of use, need to be evaluated, taking into consideration that changing one entity modifies the UX. This will be achieved by persona profiling to determine the key characteristics of the user communities, clustered according to the key UX attributes. Subsequently, through detailed usability evaluations, including the use of System Usability Scale (SUS) to determine user satisfaction with various UI components/techniques per identified persona- thus providing and persona mapping for usability of Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICTD) services. The results from this research are reflective of the importance of creating personas for usability testing. Some of the personas do not have a problem with interacting with most of the interfaces but their choice of interface comes from a preference point of view. For some personas, their skills and level of experience with ICTs motivates their choice of interface. The common UI component that users from across the spectrum appreciate is UI consistency which makes interaction easier and more natural. Common obstacles with current User Interfaces (UIs) that inhibit users from MRAs include the hefty use of text in interfaces, unintuitive navigation structures and the use of a foreign language. Differences in UIs from different application developers present an inconsistency which challenges the users from rural areas. These differences include the layout, the text entry methods and the form of output produced. A solution to this has been identified from the usability test as the use of speech-enabled interfaces in a language that can be understood by the target audience. In addition, through literature study it has been found that UX of interfaces can be improved by the use of less textual or text-free interfaces. Based on literature, users from MRAs can benefit from using hand-writing based UIs for text-based entry which mimics pen and paper environment for literate users who have experience with writing. Finally, the use of numbered options can assist illiterate users in tasks that requires users to choose options and for navigation. Therefore, consistency in UIs designed to be used by MRA users can improve usability of these interfaces and thus, improving the overall UX.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nyambi, Pride Bongiwe
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11400 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020164
- Description: Consistent with global entities such as the United Nations- through the World Summit of the Information Society (WSIS), introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for human development has seen the introduction of ICT-based services aimed at facilitating socio-economic development of marginalized communities. The use of ICTs has always solicited the concept of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), which involves the methods which humans interact with technology. The types of User Interfaces (UIs) and interaction techniques that people use to interact with ICTs affects the way they perceive technology and eventually, their acceptance of the technology. Current ICT systems still haven‟t adopted the concept of placing the user at the core of the interaction. Users are still required to adapt themselves to the interface‟s characteristics; which limits the number of people who can use the system due to inabilities to adapt to the interface. As a result, the information embedded in these technologies is still inaccessible and useless to Marginalized Rural Area (MRA) users. Such usability challenges can be mitigated against and avoided by matching UI components with the users‟ mental models, language, preferences, needs and other socio-cultural artefacts. In this research, literature in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is reviewed with emphasis on the usability and User Experience (UX) during user interaction with ICTs using various modes of interactions. HCI emphasizes the need for systems to take account of user‟s characteristics such as their abilities, needs, socio-cultural experiences, behaviours and interests. In efforts to meet the requirement of UX, the user, system and the context of use, need to be evaluated, taking into consideration that changing one entity modifies the UX. This will be achieved by persona profiling to determine the key characteristics of the user communities, clustered according to the key UX attributes. Subsequently, through detailed usability evaluations, including the use of System Usability Scale (SUS) to determine user satisfaction with various UI components/techniques per identified persona- thus providing and persona mapping for usability of Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICTD) services. The results from this research are reflective of the importance of creating personas for usability testing. Some of the personas do not have a problem with interacting with most of the interfaces but their choice of interface comes from a preference point of view. For some personas, their skills and level of experience with ICTs motivates their choice of interface. The common UI component that users from across the spectrum appreciate is UI consistency which makes interaction easier and more natural. Common obstacles with current User Interfaces (UIs) that inhibit users from MRAs include the hefty use of text in interfaces, unintuitive navigation structures and the use of a foreign language. Differences in UIs from different application developers present an inconsistency which challenges the users from rural areas. These differences include the layout, the text entry methods and the form of output produced. A solution to this has been identified from the usability test as the use of speech-enabled interfaces in a language that can be understood by the target audience. In addition, through literature study it has been found that UX of interfaces can be improved by the use of less textual or text-free interfaces. Based on literature, users from MRAs can benefit from using hand-writing based UIs for text-based entry which mimics pen and paper environment for literate users who have experience with writing. Finally, the use of numbered options can assist illiterate users in tasks that requires users to choose options and for navigation. Therefore, consistency in UIs designed to be used by MRA users can improve usability of these interfaces and thus, improving the overall UX.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors affecting participation rates in farming in the rural areas of South Africa: case of Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Zamxaka, Xolisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021291 , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: South Africa and the rest of developing countries are faced with poverty and poor rural development. Rural participation in agricultural activities is one of the components that can be used to address the poverty challenge facing the people residing in rural areas. The broad objective of this research is to determine factors affecting participation rate in farming in the rural areas of Amathole District Municipality of Eastern Cape. In this study stratified random sampling method was applied in order to choose a sample out of 30 households that were interviewed 13 people belonged to Participants and 17 people belonged to non-Participants. The results from this study show that women participate a lot in farming activities. The multiple regression model was used to test the participation rates of the people in Amathole region specifically Phumlani area. A number of variables were considered in this study to assess the impact of different variables on participation in farming activities. The results showed that about 57% of the respondents are not participating in farming while 43% of the respondents participate. The farming participants that were interviewed all claim that there is a lack in farming support in the area. When there is no support of any kind, rural people would not be motivated to start development projects on their own. Consequently, this lack of farming support in the Phumlani area may have an influence on the number of farming participants. Therefore, the lack of support in the area may serve as a motivation for non-participants not to be influenced to farm. Rural farming needs to be promoted amongst the youth so as to protect and sustain agricultural growth in rural areas. The study has discovered that the youth of Phumlani is not actively involved in farming activities. Government can provide community members with farming resources so as to promote farming in the area. It would be wiser for the government to provide physical farming resources and implements rather than cash grants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Zamxaka, Xolisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021291 , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: South Africa and the rest of developing countries are faced with poverty and poor rural development. Rural participation in agricultural activities is one of the components that can be used to address the poverty challenge facing the people residing in rural areas. The broad objective of this research is to determine factors affecting participation rate in farming in the rural areas of Amathole District Municipality of Eastern Cape. In this study stratified random sampling method was applied in order to choose a sample out of 30 households that were interviewed 13 people belonged to Participants and 17 people belonged to non-Participants. The results from this study show that women participate a lot in farming activities. The multiple regression model was used to test the participation rates of the people in Amathole region specifically Phumlani area. A number of variables were considered in this study to assess the impact of different variables on participation in farming activities. The results showed that about 57% of the respondents are not participating in farming while 43% of the respondents participate. The farming participants that were interviewed all claim that there is a lack in farming support in the area. When there is no support of any kind, rural people would not be motivated to start development projects on their own. Consequently, this lack of farming support in the Phumlani area may have an influence on the number of farming participants. Therefore, the lack of support in the area may serve as a motivation for non-participants not to be influenced to farm. Rural farming needs to be promoted amongst the youth so as to protect and sustain agricultural growth in rural areas. The study has discovered that the youth of Phumlani is not actively involved in farming activities. Government can provide community members with farming resources so as to promote farming in the area. It would be wiser for the government to provide physical farming resources and implements rather than cash grants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors affecting the implementation of HIV/AIDS awareness programmes in universities: a case study of selected university in Eastern Cape Province - South Africa
- Authors: Ibrahim, Seriki Idowu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MAdmin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1818 , vital:27562
- Description: Many studies have been carried out on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Despite these giant stride (HIV) and (AIDS) have remained a great threat to human existence across the globe. Studies have shown that South Africa has the largest number of people with (HIV) and (AIDS) in Southern Africa. This study examined the factors influencing the implementation of (HIV) and (AIDS) A quantitative research design was adopted in the study. Two hundred and fifty nine subjects were involved in the study (259) this consisted of the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus in Eastern Cape Province. Five hypotheses were generated and tested in the study at 0.05 alpha levels. This study made use of descriptive and hypothesis testing analysis. Descriptive statistics such as the mean, mode, median and the frequency distribution graphs were also used. The study also revealed that there are factors influencing the implementation of HIV/AIDS awareness Programmes at the university of Fort Hare Alice campus F = 9.233, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000, The University of Fort Hare do effectively implement HIV/AIDS policies and programmes. F = 10.765, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000 . There are factors affecting the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes at university of Fort Hare Alice campus F = 2.207, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.069, There are significant difference on the factors affecting the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes within university Fort Hare Alice campus Chi-square statistic test: = 84.035, df= 16 and p-value = 0.000 (Pearson Chi-square), There are ways to improving the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes in university of Fort Hare Alice campus. F = 9.233, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000, However, this study recommended that there is need to review the existing policy on (HIV) and (AIDS), the incorporation of (HIV) and (AIDS) awareness programme in the first year curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ibrahim, Seriki Idowu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MAdmin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1818 , vital:27562
- Description: Many studies have been carried out on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Despite these giant stride (HIV) and (AIDS) have remained a great threat to human existence across the globe. Studies have shown that South Africa has the largest number of people with (HIV) and (AIDS) in Southern Africa. This study examined the factors influencing the implementation of (HIV) and (AIDS) A quantitative research design was adopted in the study. Two hundred and fifty nine subjects were involved in the study (259) this consisted of the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus in Eastern Cape Province. Five hypotheses were generated and tested in the study at 0.05 alpha levels. This study made use of descriptive and hypothesis testing analysis. Descriptive statistics such as the mean, mode, median and the frequency distribution graphs were also used. The study also revealed that there are factors influencing the implementation of HIV/AIDS awareness Programmes at the university of Fort Hare Alice campus F = 9.233, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000, The University of Fort Hare do effectively implement HIV/AIDS policies and programmes. F = 10.765, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000 . There are factors affecting the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes at university of Fort Hare Alice campus F = 2.207, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.069, There are significant difference on the factors affecting the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes within university Fort Hare Alice campus Chi-square statistic test: = 84.035, df= 16 and p-value = 0.000 (Pearson Chi-square), There are ways to improving the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies and programmes in university of Fort Hare Alice campus. F = 9.233, df = 4, 247 and p-value = 0.000, However, this study recommended that there is need to review the existing policy on (HIV) and (AIDS), the incorporation of (HIV) and (AIDS) awareness programme in the first year curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors affecting the success of reseeding rehabilitation in the semi-arid Karoo, South Africa
- Authors: Matthee, Willem
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- South Africa -- Karoo , Arid regions -- South Africa -- Karoo , Environmental degradation -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2889 , vital:20360
- Description: Due to overgrazing, mining and other anthropogenic disturbances, large sections of the Karoo region have been degraded, resulting in areas with low vegetation cover, where erosion rates are high and vegetation is dominated by unpalatable species. These areas have low and unpredictable rainfall, with slow to non-existent autogenic recovery, and this often forces landowners to implement reseeding rehabilitation in an attempt to increase both overall vegetation cover and the relative abundance of palatable plants. Landowners use soil preparation treatments, which include creating micro-catchments, ripping, mulching and brush packing, to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of initial rainfall, mean monthly rainfall, soil preparation techniques, slope, existing vegetation cover, litter, mulch and stone cover in determining the success of reseeding rehabilitation. Rainfall had the most significant influence, where long-lived shrubs established best under low initial rainfall and high mean monthly rainfall, and grasses established best after receiving high initial rainfall. Micro-catchments proved the most successful soil preparation technique for the establishment of long-lived shrubs, while ripping and mulching impacted negatively on grass establishment. A combination of mulch and micro-catchments aided Osteospermum sinuatum establishment in soils where soil shrinkage cracks occurred. Temperature influenced seed germination and drought tolerance of Lessertia annularis, Fingerhuthia africana and O. sinuatum, with higher germination success of O. sinuatum under temperatures simulating summer, and of F. africana under temperatures simulating winter. L. annularis germination had a faster growth rate and higher survival when germinated under autumn/spring temperatures. Landowners are advised to sow seeds of more than one species during rehabilitation, to include micro-catchments as soil preparation treatment, and to sow seeds during a time when rainfall is predicted to be high.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Matthee, Willem
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- South Africa -- Karoo , Arid regions -- South Africa -- Karoo , Environmental degradation -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2889 , vital:20360
- Description: Due to overgrazing, mining and other anthropogenic disturbances, large sections of the Karoo region have been degraded, resulting in areas with low vegetation cover, where erosion rates are high and vegetation is dominated by unpalatable species. These areas have low and unpredictable rainfall, with slow to non-existent autogenic recovery, and this often forces landowners to implement reseeding rehabilitation in an attempt to increase both overall vegetation cover and the relative abundance of palatable plants. Landowners use soil preparation treatments, which include creating micro-catchments, ripping, mulching and brush packing, to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of initial rainfall, mean monthly rainfall, soil preparation techniques, slope, existing vegetation cover, litter, mulch and stone cover in determining the success of reseeding rehabilitation. Rainfall had the most significant influence, where long-lived shrubs established best under low initial rainfall and high mean monthly rainfall, and grasses established best after receiving high initial rainfall. Micro-catchments proved the most successful soil preparation technique for the establishment of long-lived shrubs, while ripping and mulching impacted negatively on grass establishment. A combination of mulch and micro-catchments aided Osteospermum sinuatum establishment in soils where soil shrinkage cracks occurred. Temperature influenced seed germination and drought tolerance of Lessertia annularis, Fingerhuthia africana and O. sinuatum, with higher germination success of O. sinuatum under temperatures simulating summer, and of F. africana under temperatures simulating winter. L. annularis germination had a faster growth rate and higher survival when germinated under autumn/spring temperatures. Landowners are advised to sow seeds of more than one species during rehabilitation, to include micro-catchments as soil preparation treatment, and to sow seeds during a time when rainfall is predicted to be high.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors affecting the usage of banking products and services by low income and under-banked consumers
- Authors: Giwe, Mbunwe Belter
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Bank facilities , Bank customers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9334
- Description: A fundamental idea of this study was that the formal financial institutions have an essential role to play in the process of assisting financial inclusion of South Africa's low income and under-banked consumers. Financial inclusion is important for consumers to have access to affordable basic financial products and services. An increase in the number of financially included consumers is important for growth of home ownership, positive savings habits among low income consumers and mitigating risks with insurance products. Consumers have access to financial products and services but are not equipped with the basic knowledge to fully benefit from the use of these financial products and services. As a result, the construct of financial inclusion and the measures being taken by South African financial institutions to optimise financial inclusion was investigated in this study. There is a broad consensus that under-banked consumers face a myriad of factors that may prevent them from having effective access and usage of banking products and services. The effective usage of banking products and services not only promotes an inclusive society but also consumers' ability to take full advantage of the benefits of having access to suitable financial products and services. The influence of these factors on the usage of banking products and services by low income and under-banked consumers was under investigation in this research study. The influence of these factors on the usage of banking products and services by low income and under-banked consumers was under investigation in this research study. To achieve this, the researcher identified a number of factors that have a relationship with usage. These include Financial Awareness, Trust, Fees, Simplicity and Appropriateness of banking products and services. Consumers' usage of banking products and services were tested using primary data collected from low income and under-banked consumers in the NMB. This study only focused on five influencing factors. The investigation of other possible factors contributing to the usage of banking products and services is necessary. Making use of a larger sample and an improved model with other pertinent influencing factors might bring to light the significant factors involved in the decisions made by consumers in the usage of banking products and services. The significant factors presented in this study reveals that of the five proposed relationships, only two were found to be significant (Financial Awareness and Appropriateness). The findings of the study show that the usage of banking products and services can be increased through increased Financial Awareness about various available banking products and services, changing the unrealised need of the consumers into a realised need for banking and providing affordable products and services for various sections of the population. Appropriateness also reported a positive significant influence on Usage. This means that consumers are likely to access their bank account at different locations. With banking institutions offering products and services that meet their needs, consumers can achieve their financial goals and improve lifestyles by doing all transactions via the bank account and having more control over their personal financial affairs. Recommendations where suggested based on the empirical results to help improve the banking institutions ways of attracting and retaining consumers to effectively use their products and services. It was recommended that banking institutions should tailor their marketing campaigns towards low income and under-banked consumers in order to improve the level of financial awareness of consumers about banking products and services they consume. Seek to improve their communications strategies by adopting techniques that effectively transmits their ideas between the banking institutions and low income and under-banked consumers. And also focus should be on the creation of innovative design systems to ensure that banking products and services will effectively address the needs of low income and under-banked consumers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Giwe, Mbunwe Belter
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Bank facilities , Bank customers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9334
- Description: A fundamental idea of this study was that the formal financial institutions have an essential role to play in the process of assisting financial inclusion of South Africa's low income and under-banked consumers. Financial inclusion is important for consumers to have access to affordable basic financial products and services. An increase in the number of financially included consumers is important for growth of home ownership, positive savings habits among low income consumers and mitigating risks with insurance products. Consumers have access to financial products and services but are not equipped with the basic knowledge to fully benefit from the use of these financial products and services. As a result, the construct of financial inclusion and the measures being taken by South African financial institutions to optimise financial inclusion was investigated in this study. There is a broad consensus that under-banked consumers face a myriad of factors that may prevent them from having effective access and usage of banking products and services. The effective usage of banking products and services not only promotes an inclusive society but also consumers' ability to take full advantage of the benefits of having access to suitable financial products and services. The influence of these factors on the usage of banking products and services by low income and under-banked consumers was under investigation in this research study. The influence of these factors on the usage of banking products and services by low income and under-banked consumers was under investigation in this research study. To achieve this, the researcher identified a number of factors that have a relationship with usage. These include Financial Awareness, Trust, Fees, Simplicity and Appropriateness of banking products and services. Consumers' usage of banking products and services were tested using primary data collected from low income and under-banked consumers in the NMB. This study only focused on five influencing factors. The investigation of other possible factors contributing to the usage of banking products and services is necessary. Making use of a larger sample and an improved model with other pertinent influencing factors might bring to light the significant factors involved in the decisions made by consumers in the usage of banking products and services. The significant factors presented in this study reveals that of the five proposed relationships, only two were found to be significant (Financial Awareness and Appropriateness). The findings of the study show that the usage of banking products and services can be increased through increased Financial Awareness about various available banking products and services, changing the unrealised need of the consumers into a realised need for banking and providing affordable products and services for various sections of the population. Appropriateness also reported a positive significant influence on Usage. This means that consumers are likely to access their bank account at different locations. With banking institutions offering products and services that meet their needs, consumers can achieve their financial goals and improve lifestyles by doing all transactions via the bank account and having more control over their personal financial affairs. Recommendations where suggested based on the empirical results to help improve the banking institutions ways of attracting and retaining consumers to effectively use their products and services. It was recommended that banking institutions should tailor their marketing campaigns towards low income and under-banked consumers in order to improve the level of financial awareness of consumers about banking products and services they consume. Seek to improve their communications strategies by adopting techniques that effectively transmits their ideas between the banking institutions and low income and under-banked consumers. And also focus should be on the creation of innovative design systems to ensure that banking products and services will effectively address the needs of low income and under-banked consumers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors enhancing readmission of mental health care users to a mental health unit in East London as described by their caregivers
- Authors: Mahashe, Nozizwe Patricia
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Psychiatric Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021067
- Description: Readmission of mental healthcare users is a global challenge and concern which is associated with high costs. Readmission has negative effects as it is believed to promote dependency, demoralize patients and cause workload for staff. Re-admissions also bring a burden to caregivers and affect the caregiver’s health. In the light of this background, the aim of the study was to explore and describe factors enhancing readmission of mental health care users (MHCUs) to a mental health unit in East London as described by their caregivers. The objectives of the study were to: explore factors enhancing readmission of mental health care users in a mental health unit in East London as described by their caregivers and to document recommendations elicited from the findings of the study. A qualitative approach was used to collect and analyze data. The study used a descriptive and explorative design. Sampling was done using the purposive non-probability method. Unstructured face- to- face interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Fifteen (15) caregivers of MHCUs who had been readmitted to a mental health unit in East London were interviewed .The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The findings of this study suggest that non adherence to treatment, refusing to take treatment, defaulting treatment, denial, indulging in substance abuse, stigma, effects of disease, violence and aggressive behavior are the factors enhancing readmission of MCHUs to a mental health unit in East London. A better understanding of readmission of MHCUs can lead to early intervention and early planning of care. It is envisaged that psycho education, home visits and collaboration of clinic staff with hospital staff may decrease readmission of mental health care users in this unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mahashe, Nozizwe Patricia
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Psychiatric Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021067
- Description: Readmission of mental healthcare users is a global challenge and concern which is associated with high costs. Readmission has negative effects as it is believed to promote dependency, demoralize patients and cause workload for staff. Re-admissions also bring a burden to caregivers and affect the caregiver’s health. In the light of this background, the aim of the study was to explore and describe factors enhancing readmission of mental health care users (MHCUs) to a mental health unit in East London as described by their caregivers. The objectives of the study were to: explore factors enhancing readmission of mental health care users in a mental health unit in East London as described by their caregivers and to document recommendations elicited from the findings of the study. A qualitative approach was used to collect and analyze data. The study used a descriptive and explorative design. Sampling was done using the purposive non-probability method. Unstructured face- to- face interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Fifteen (15) caregivers of MHCUs who had been readmitted to a mental health unit in East London were interviewed .The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The findings of this study suggest that non adherence to treatment, refusing to take treatment, defaulting treatment, denial, indulging in substance abuse, stigma, effects of disease, violence and aggressive behavior are the factors enhancing readmission of MCHUs to a mental health unit in East London. A better understanding of readmission of MHCUs can lead to early intervention and early planning of care. It is envisaged that psycho education, home visits and collaboration of clinic staff with hospital staff may decrease readmission of mental health care users in this unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors in the success or failure of selected urban agricultural projects in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Fadana, Yanga Yolanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Economic aspects , Land use, Urban -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8306 , vital:26321
- Description: Sustainable agriculture is explained by Reddy (1995: 22) as the ability for agricultural projects to produce crops and at the same time be able to maintain production without failing. With growing populations in urban areas, the importance of urban agriculture has become increasingly important. This research aims to study the factors that contribute to the success and failure of selected urban agricultural projects within the Nelson Mandela Bay by looking at how the community benefits from two selected community projects. It is however important to note that there are various factors contributing to the success and failure of any project. This research looks into the viability of the environment that the projects are in, the level of community membership, ownership structures, how messages are communicated between stakeholders, and the purpose of the project as well as the resources available to see the project through. Urban agriculture becomes a very important practice to the urban poor, as it subsidizes household income when the produce is sold and reduces expenditure when it is consumed (Kirkland, 2008: 23). Zooming into the Nelson Mandela Bay, it is evident that this practice is also beneficial for the communities in which the projects operate, however, challenges such as theft make such projects dependent on funders and donors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Fadana, Yanga Yolanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Economic aspects , Land use, Urban -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8306 , vital:26321
- Description: Sustainable agriculture is explained by Reddy (1995: 22) as the ability for agricultural projects to produce crops and at the same time be able to maintain production without failing. With growing populations in urban areas, the importance of urban agriculture has become increasingly important. This research aims to study the factors that contribute to the success and failure of selected urban agricultural projects within the Nelson Mandela Bay by looking at how the community benefits from two selected community projects. It is however important to note that there are various factors contributing to the success and failure of any project. This research looks into the viability of the environment that the projects are in, the level of community membership, ownership structures, how messages are communicated between stakeholders, and the purpose of the project as well as the resources available to see the project through. Urban agriculture becomes a very important practice to the urban poor, as it subsidizes household income when the produce is sold and reduces expenditure when it is consumed (Kirkland, 2008: 23). Zooming into the Nelson Mandela Bay, it is evident that this practice is also beneficial for the communities in which the projects operate, however, challenges such as theft make such projects dependent on funders and donors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors influencing consumer decision-making process in the private health institutions
- Authors: Akponah, Voke Blessing
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Consumer behavior Decision making , Public-private sector cooperation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50033 , vital:41993
- Description: The development that has taken place in the health care sector includes all factors that have brought changes in the consumer decision-making process regarding the private health institutions. In Nigeria, the development is evident in the delivery of the health care services. This indicates that the private health institutions deliver quality health care service by using efficient and quality medical equipment. However, there is a growing awareness among clients to perform an extensive search before the purchase of health care service and the increased expectation from health care quality by clients and their family. The change in consumer behaviour has caused a shift in the consumer decision-making process due to the availability of several sources of information and various health institutions they can choose from. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the consumer decision-making process that can enhance customer satisfaction and reduce cognitive dissonance. In this study the behaviour of consumers is related to how they make decisions along several stages before they make a purchase and in a health care setting the decision-making process refers to the process that clients pass through in making choices on alternative health institutions. The quantitative research method was adopted in this study in describing, analysing and interpreting data. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect primary data from 450 respondents in Lagos state, Nigeria. The primary data was statistically analysed using five stages, namely, exploratory factor analysis, Cronbach‟s alpha reliability testing, descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis. The empirical results of this study indicates that service encounter experience, personal income and support sources are significantly related to the decision-making process. The decision-making process also has significant positive relationship with both customer satisfaction and cognitive dissonance. This indicates that influential factors that have been identified through the empirical results enlighten researchers and the private health institutions on issues that influence the clients‟ decisions to utilise private health institutions. The well-being and satisfaction of clients will be enhanced if the private health institutions can craft effective strategies that will enable clients to gain easy access and utilise health care services. This study emphasised that access to and utilisation of health care services in the private health institutions can be granted to clients through personal income and support sources from family members and private health institutions. Futhermore, health insurance coverage is an effective way that will help clients overcome the financial constraints and restricted access to and utilisation of private health institutions. The study further reveals that the well-being and satisfaction of clients will be enhanced if private health institutions improve access to quality health care. Failure to improve the overall quality and performances of the health care services in the private health institutions can lead to clients‟ cognitive dissonance. Both private and public health institutions should play a major role in providing the necessary facilities that can assist the clients in their decision-making process regarding their health care needs. This will enable the health care institutions‟ staff to understand what clients value and need and, therefore, how well to satisfy them and reduce cognitive dissonance. Easy access and utilisation of the private health institutions as well as satisfaction in quality health care delivery will create better health outcomes for the workforce and citizens of a country and this will improve economic development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Akponah, Voke Blessing
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Consumer behavior Decision making , Public-private sector cooperation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50033 , vital:41993
- Description: The development that has taken place in the health care sector includes all factors that have brought changes in the consumer decision-making process regarding the private health institutions. In Nigeria, the development is evident in the delivery of the health care services. This indicates that the private health institutions deliver quality health care service by using efficient and quality medical equipment. However, there is a growing awareness among clients to perform an extensive search before the purchase of health care service and the increased expectation from health care quality by clients and their family. The change in consumer behaviour has caused a shift in the consumer decision-making process due to the availability of several sources of information and various health institutions they can choose from. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the consumer decision-making process that can enhance customer satisfaction and reduce cognitive dissonance. In this study the behaviour of consumers is related to how they make decisions along several stages before they make a purchase and in a health care setting the decision-making process refers to the process that clients pass through in making choices on alternative health institutions. The quantitative research method was adopted in this study in describing, analysing and interpreting data. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect primary data from 450 respondents in Lagos state, Nigeria. The primary data was statistically analysed using five stages, namely, exploratory factor analysis, Cronbach‟s alpha reliability testing, descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis. The empirical results of this study indicates that service encounter experience, personal income and support sources are significantly related to the decision-making process. The decision-making process also has significant positive relationship with both customer satisfaction and cognitive dissonance. This indicates that influential factors that have been identified through the empirical results enlighten researchers and the private health institutions on issues that influence the clients‟ decisions to utilise private health institutions. The well-being and satisfaction of clients will be enhanced if the private health institutions can craft effective strategies that will enable clients to gain easy access and utilise health care services. This study emphasised that access to and utilisation of health care services in the private health institutions can be granted to clients through personal income and support sources from family members and private health institutions. Futhermore, health insurance coverage is an effective way that will help clients overcome the financial constraints and restricted access to and utilisation of private health institutions. The study further reveals that the well-being and satisfaction of clients will be enhanced if private health institutions improve access to quality health care. Failure to improve the overall quality and performances of the health care services in the private health institutions can lead to clients‟ cognitive dissonance. Both private and public health institutions should play a major role in providing the necessary facilities that can assist the clients in their decision-making process regarding their health care needs. This will enable the health care institutions‟ staff to understand what clients value and need and, therefore, how well to satisfy them and reduce cognitive dissonance. Easy access and utilisation of the private health institutions as well as satisfaction in quality health care delivery will create better health outcomes for the workforce and citizens of a country and this will improve economic development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Factors influencing employee engagement during change
- Kubheka, Praise-God Ntandokayise Mandla
- Authors: Kubheka, Praise-God Ntandokayise Mandla
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3135 , vital:20402
- Description: A lot of attention over the years has been focused on understanding employees resistance to change. A few researchers have provided insights into the reasons why some employees remain positive and engaged during times of uncertainty and changes in the organosation. To help build this knowledge area the study was aimed to investigating the factors that drive employee engagement during change. One-hundred-and-twenty employees, across a cross-section of jobs at a specific bank in South Africa, were surveyed. The empirical results obtained from the survey showed that independent variables such as dialogue, organisational culture and a clear4 career plan were congruent with the expected results. In other words these vriables displayed a significant association with the de[endent variables (e.g. job involvement, organisational commitment and organisational citizenship behaviour.).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kubheka, Praise-God Ntandokayise Mandla
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3135 , vital:20402
- Description: A lot of attention over the years has been focused on understanding employees resistance to change. A few researchers have provided insights into the reasons why some employees remain positive and engaged during times of uncertainty and changes in the organosation. To help build this knowledge area the study was aimed to investigating the factors that drive employee engagement during change. One-hundred-and-twenty employees, across a cross-section of jobs at a specific bank in South Africa, were surveyed. The empirical results obtained from the survey showed that independent variables such as dialogue, organisational culture and a clear4 career plan were congruent with the expected results. In other words these vriables displayed a significant association with the de[endent variables (e.g. job involvement, organisational commitment and organisational citizenship behaviour.).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Female identity in the post-millennial Nigerian novel: a study of Adichie, Atta, and Unigwe
- Authors: Wambui, Mary Theru
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Adichie, Chimamanda Ngozi, 1977- -- Criticism and interpretation , Adichie, Chimamanda Ngozi, 1977-. Purple hibiscus , Atta, Sefi -- Criticism and interpretation , Atta, Sefi -- Everything good will come , Unigwe, Chika. Criticism and interpretation , Unigwe, Chika. Fata Morgana -- English , Nigerian fiction -- History and criticism , Women -- Identity , Women in literature , Feminism in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2330 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020013
- Description: This thesis project examines the work of three female Nigerian authors: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Sefi Atta and Chika Unigwe. They are part of a growing number of young African writers who are receiving international acclaim and challenging narratives that have long defined the continent in pejorative terms. They question what it means to be female and African in a transcultural, global world but counter discourses that are both restrictive and prescriptive. Their female characters are not imaged in binary terms as either victims or villains. For all three writers, the African story has to be told in its entirety incorporating what some may argue are negative stereotypes but doing so in a manner that examines and undermines those same stereotypes. For the purposes of the thesis, I focus on their first novels: Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus, Atta’s Everything Good Will Come and Unigwe’s On Black Sisters’ Street. Chapter One examines Purple Hibiscus and argues that the novel is much more than a coming of age story or, as some critics have posited, an allegory of the postcolonial state. Chapter Two highlights Atta’s use of fairly familiar feminist theories but grounds them in the lived realities of the African city. All three authors are concerned with issues of violence and death. Unigwe’s novel, which forms the focus of Chapter Three, offers a critical perspective on how both of those themes intersect with the increasing commercialisation of global culture. Her characters are female sex workers whose lives are irrevocably altered by the murder of one of their colleagues. I conclude by arguing that the three novels offer a nuanced if not necessarily new understanding of the various social, economic and political forces that continue to shape the lives of women on the continent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Wambui, Mary Theru
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Adichie, Chimamanda Ngozi, 1977- -- Criticism and interpretation , Adichie, Chimamanda Ngozi, 1977-. Purple hibiscus , Atta, Sefi -- Criticism and interpretation , Atta, Sefi -- Everything good will come , Unigwe, Chika. Criticism and interpretation , Unigwe, Chika. Fata Morgana -- English , Nigerian fiction -- History and criticism , Women -- Identity , Women in literature , Feminism in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2330 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020013
- Description: This thesis project examines the work of three female Nigerian authors: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Sefi Atta and Chika Unigwe. They are part of a growing number of young African writers who are receiving international acclaim and challenging narratives that have long defined the continent in pejorative terms. They question what it means to be female and African in a transcultural, global world but counter discourses that are both restrictive and prescriptive. Their female characters are not imaged in binary terms as either victims or villains. For all three writers, the African story has to be told in its entirety incorporating what some may argue are negative stereotypes but doing so in a manner that examines and undermines those same stereotypes. For the purposes of the thesis, I focus on their first novels: Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus, Atta’s Everything Good Will Come and Unigwe’s On Black Sisters’ Street. Chapter One examines Purple Hibiscus and argues that the novel is much more than a coming of age story or, as some critics have posited, an allegory of the postcolonial state. Chapter Two highlights Atta’s use of fairly familiar feminist theories but grounds them in the lived realities of the African city. All three authors are concerned with issues of violence and death. Unigwe’s novel, which forms the focus of Chapter Three, offers a critical perspective on how both of those themes intersect with the increasing commercialisation of global culture. Her characters are female sex workers whose lives are irrevocably altered by the murder of one of their colleagues. I conclude by arguing that the three novels offer a nuanced if not necessarily new understanding of the various social, economic and political forces that continue to shape the lives of women on the continent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015