Participation of Zimbabwean female students in physics: Subject perception and identity formation
- Authors: Gudyanga, Anna
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Participation -- Women -- Zimbabwe Women -- Education -- Zimbabwe Science -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11542 , vital:26936
- Description: The central focus of this study was to determine the extent to which identity formation influenced Zimbabwean A-level female students’ perceptions of and participation in physics. The themes from the sub-problems included the influence of contextual factors on identity formation in relation to physics as a subject at Advanced Level (A-level), facets of identity formation considered to be of significance by female students in relation to physics, the way in which female students’ perceptions of physics influenced their participation in the subject as well as the factors of identity formation considered as contributing to developing an orientation towards physics by female students. A qualitative approach grounded in an interpretivist paradigm was used. A tri-hybrid theoretical lens comprising of Wenger’s (1998) Social Learning Theory featuring CoP, the Feminist Stand point Theory and Sfard and Prusak’s (2005) notion of ‘telling’ identities or stories, enabled a rich understanding of the influences of identity formation on female students’ perceptions of and participation in physics. The data generating methods used were classroom observation, Draw-A-Scientist Test and semi-structured interviews conducted with nine participants. The data were collated to generate narratives. Key findings: The contextual factors that influenced the identity formation of female students and subsequently their participation in physics at A-level included: Parental and siblings influence; cultural perceptions; impact of the O-level experience; A-level physics teachers’ attitudes; classroom and laboratory experience; male peer influence and other factors such as an understanding of the relevance of physics in daily life. Facets of identity formation considered to be of significance by female students in relation to physics included: being confident, fearless, intelligent, and courageous, liking physics and being determined. These facets motivated them to develop an identity in favour of physics. The female participants studying only mathematics perceived themselves as very intelligent but with a fear of failing physics, lacking confidence and courage. Female students who held negative perceptions towards physics chose to do only mathematics at A-level while those with positive perceptions which influenced the formation of a positive physics identity displayed enthusiasm and commitment to achieve high levels of performance in the subject. Factors of identity formation considered as contributing positively to the development of an orientation towards physics by female students included the importance of v female physics teachers as role models, motivation from O-level science teachers, high self-confidence, high self-esteem, parental support and encouragement, and aspirations towards a physics related career. Gender insensitivity displayed by male teachers, male peer harassment and gender stereotyping are factors in identity formation considered as inhibiting the development of an orientation towards physics by female students. This study provides physics educators, physics planners and the government with detailed information on the role identity formation plays on the participation of Zimbabwean female adolescent students in A-level physics. The findings may be used by heads of schools to sensitise academic staff on the gender dimensions of teaching and learning as well as by counsellors and parents to encourage females to enrol for physics and mathematics as their subjects of choice. This study also contributes to the strengthening of educational research in Zimbabwe, especially research aimed at emancipation of female students in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Gudyanga, Anna
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Participation -- Women -- Zimbabwe Women -- Education -- Zimbabwe Science -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11542 , vital:26936
- Description: The central focus of this study was to determine the extent to which identity formation influenced Zimbabwean A-level female students’ perceptions of and participation in physics. The themes from the sub-problems included the influence of contextual factors on identity formation in relation to physics as a subject at Advanced Level (A-level), facets of identity formation considered to be of significance by female students in relation to physics, the way in which female students’ perceptions of physics influenced their participation in the subject as well as the factors of identity formation considered as contributing to developing an orientation towards physics by female students. A qualitative approach grounded in an interpretivist paradigm was used. A tri-hybrid theoretical lens comprising of Wenger’s (1998) Social Learning Theory featuring CoP, the Feminist Stand point Theory and Sfard and Prusak’s (2005) notion of ‘telling’ identities or stories, enabled a rich understanding of the influences of identity formation on female students’ perceptions of and participation in physics. The data generating methods used were classroom observation, Draw-A-Scientist Test and semi-structured interviews conducted with nine participants. The data were collated to generate narratives. Key findings: The contextual factors that influenced the identity formation of female students and subsequently their participation in physics at A-level included: Parental and siblings influence; cultural perceptions; impact of the O-level experience; A-level physics teachers’ attitudes; classroom and laboratory experience; male peer influence and other factors such as an understanding of the relevance of physics in daily life. Facets of identity formation considered to be of significance by female students in relation to physics included: being confident, fearless, intelligent, and courageous, liking physics and being determined. These facets motivated them to develop an identity in favour of physics. The female participants studying only mathematics perceived themselves as very intelligent but with a fear of failing physics, lacking confidence and courage. Female students who held negative perceptions towards physics chose to do only mathematics at A-level while those with positive perceptions which influenced the formation of a positive physics identity displayed enthusiasm and commitment to achieve high levels of performance in the subject. Factors of identity formation considered as contributing positively to the development of an orientation towards physics by female students included the importance of v female physics teachers as role models, motivation from O-level science teachers, high self-confidence, high self-esteem, parental support and encouragement, and aspirations towards a physics related career. Gender insensitivity displayed by male teachers, male peer harassment and gender stereotyping are factors in identity formation considered as inhibiting the development of an orientation towards physics by female students. This study provides physics educators, physics planners and the government with detailed information on the role identity formation plays on the participation of Zimbabwean female adolescent students in A-level physics. The findings may be used by heads of schools to sensitise academic staff on the gender dimensions of teaching and learning as well as by counsellors and parents to encourage females to enrol for physics and mathematics as their subjects of choice. This study also contributes to the strengthening of educational research in Zimbabwe, especially research aimed at emancipation of female students in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceived decision making factors in the use of traditional and alternative medicine for people living with HIV and AIDS
- Authors: Muromo, Tinashe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Decision making , HIV-positive persons -- Attitudes , Social influence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5687 , vital:20963
- Description: AIDS is one of the most destructive diseases humankind has ever faced and also brings with it profound social, economic and public health consequences, making it one of the most serious health and development challenges in the world today. Zimbabwe, situated in southeastern Africa, is not spared from the pandemic. It continues to be one of the Sub-SaharanAfrican countries mostly heavily impacted by the AIDS epidemic, with almost 1.2 million people infected and over 1.1 million orphans. It ranks, therefore, as fifth highest in the world in the impact HIV and AIDS has had on the country. The most effective response has been to introduce programmes to reduce the number of new infections. Recent research has demonstrated treatment as a preventative measure to be very effective. This approach involves targeting those who are infected so that they are not able to transmit the disease. The decision that has to be made by an infected person, however, is whether to look for traditional treatment, conventional treatment or a combination of the two. Herbal medicine use is becoming very common in many countries, especially in the developing world, where public health safety has become a concern. It has become common to use herbal medicine concomitantly with allopathic or conventional medicine. The present study focused on investigating perceptions leading to the choice of treatment with the traditional alternative medicines (TAM) as (a)/n alternative or compliment to the conventional or allopathic option. This is a qualitative study that explores and describes participant’s perceptions, beliefs, attitudes and feelings around the use of traditional medicine, within the context of the Integrative Behaviour Model (IBM). Data was collected from 20 people living with HIV and AIDS from urban and rural settings of different ethnicities (Shona and Shangani). The data analysis was informed by The Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis with the aid of NVivo (V.10), a computer-assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software. As predicted by the IBM, both perceived individual and environmental factors were found to be key in influencing decision-making on the use of TAM by people living with HIV and AIDS. Although there were a number of incidents in which either individual or environmental factors were perceived as independently influencing the TAM-use decision-making process, there was a lot of mutual influence between the environment and the individual. Such mutual causation was abstracted as reciprocal determinism. The IMB model assumed a unidirectional causation in which the environment could affect the individual factors. While the present study identified and demonstrated these environmental effects on the individual, it also identified and presented a reverse causation in which the individual would also affect the environment with respect to motivation for TAM use. Individual factors were psychological properties that drove the individual to use TAM. Attitude, social influence and personal agency emerged as the three dimensions of individual factors. Attitudes helped in identification of orientations that located objects of thought on dimensions of judgment about the use of TAM. Social influence explained social pressure experienced and expected regarding the use of TAM. The study demonstrated the importance of both the descriptive and injunctive norm with participants indicating that they perceived important others to be using traditional medicine and that they felt perceived expectations from others to do the same and hence the motivation to comply. Personal agency pointed to the participants’ capacities to originate and direct actions for the purposes of TAM use. All these constructs were found to be very important as perceived determinants of the behavioral intentions of people living with HIV and AIDS to use traditional medicines. In experiential attitude, generally the respondents showed more perceived positive evaluations of pleasurable experiences in their use of traditional medicines. However, there were other outcome evaluations that seemed to be ambivalent and which appeared to cause a lot of tension. The comprehension of experiential attitude was found therefore found to be trichotomous rather than dichotomous as per the IBM. The effects of the instrumental attitude were revealed in the ratings of the extent to which the use of traditional medicine was perceived as useful or rewarding, with the study revealing high ratings of usefulness. It becomes clear, therefore, that for people living with HIV and AIDS social influence, perceived attitudes and personal agency are important decision-making factors in their use of traditional and alternative medicine. Efforts towards education, integration and behaviour change programmes should design messages targeting these behavioral determinants. Understanding of these perceived determinants is crucial to influencing policy as well as the adoption of health practices through education, marketing and other modes of health promotion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Muromo, Tinashe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Decision making , HIV-positive persons -- Attitudes , Social influence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5687 , vital:20963
- Description: AIDS is one of the most destructive diseases humankind has ever faced and also brings with it profound social, economic and public health consequences, making it one of the most serious health and development challenges in the world today. Zimbabwe, situated in southeastern Africa, is not spared from the pandemic. It continues to be one of the Sub-SaharanAfrican countries mostly heavily impacted by the AIDS epidemic, with almost 1.2 million people infected and over 1.1 million orphans. It ranks, therefore, as fifth highest in the world in the impact HIV and AIDS has had on the country. The most effective response has been to introduce programmes to reduce the number of new infections. Recent research has demonstrated treatment as a preventative measure to be very effective. This approach involves targeting those who are infected so that they are not able to transmit the disease. The decision that has to be made by an infected person, however, is whether to look for traditional treatment, conventional treatment or a combination of the two. Herbal medicine use is becoming very common in many countries, especially in the developing world, where public health safety has become a concern. It has become common to use herbal medicine concomitantly with allopathic or conventional medicine. The present study focused on investigating perceptions leading to the choice of treatment with the traditional alternative medicines (TAM) as (a)/n alternative or compliment to the conventional or allopathic option. This is a qualitative study that explores and describes participant’s perceptions, beliefs, attitudes and feelings around the use of traditional medicine, within the context of the Integrative Behaviour Model (IBM). Data was collected from 20 people living with HIV and AIDS from urban and rural settings of different ethnicities (Shona and Shangani). The data analysis was informed by The Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis with the aid of NVivo (V.10), a computer-assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software. As predicted by the IBM, both perceived individual and environmental factors were found to be key in influencing decision-making on the use of TAM by people living with HIV and AIDS. Although there were a number of incidents in which either individual or environmental factors were perceived as independently influencing the TAM-use decision-making process, there was a lot of mutual influence between the environment and the individual. Such mutual causation was abstracted as reciprocal determinism. The IMB model assumed a unidirectional causation in which the environment could affect the individual factors. While the present study identified and demonstrated these environmental effects on the individual, it also identified and presented a reverse causation in which the individual would also affect the environment with respect to motivation for TAM use. Individual factors were psychological properties that drove the individual to use TAM. Attitude, social influence and personal agency emerged as the three dimensions of individual factors. Attitudes helped in identification of orientations that located objects of thought on dimensions of judgment about the use of TAM. Social influence explained social pressure experienced and expected regarding the use of TAM. The study demonstrated the importance of both the descriptive and injunctive norm with participants indicating that they perceived important others to be using traditional medicine and that they felt perceived expectations from others to do the same and hence the motivation to comply. Personal agency pointed to the participants’ capacities to originate and direct actions for the purposes of TAM use. All these constructs were found to be very important as perceived determinants of the behavioral intentions of people living with HIV and AIDS to use traditional medicines. In experiential attitude, generally the respondents showed more perceived positive evaluations of pleasurable experiences in their use of traditional medicines. However, there were other outcome evaluations that seemed to be ambivalent and which appeared to cause a lot of tension. The comprehension of experiential attitude was found therefore found to be trichotomous rather than dichotomous as per the IBM. The effects of the instrumental attitude were revealed in the ratings of the extent to which the use of traditional medicine was perceived as useful or rewarding, with the study revealing high ratings of usefulness. It becomes clear, therefore, that for people living with HIV and AIDS social influence, perceived attitudes and personal agency are important decision-making factors in their use of traditional and alternative medicine. Efforts towards education, integration and behaviour change programmes should design messages targeting these behavioral determinants. Understanding of these perceived determinants is crucial to influencing policy as well as the adoption of health practices through education, marketing and other modes of health promotion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions and practices of small-scale piggery farmers towards animal welfare in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Maqhajana, Mzwanele
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Animal welfare -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8079 , vital:24719
- Description: There has been an increasing concern about animal welfare in small-scale farming as the farmers' agricultural practices shift towards intensive agriculture. It has become important to comprehend how small-scale farmers perceive and practice animal welfare relative to production and market integration. To solve the research problem, the research emphasis was on assessing the following practices; procedures adopted by the small-scale farmers, welfare levels verses industry equirements for market integration; determinants affecting small-scale perceptions and attitudes towards animal welfare and how has animal welfare affected farm development and production. The research focus for this study was to investigate the linkage between perceptions and this process. In order to achieve a more in-depth understanding of the study while also ensuring its validity and correctness a triangulation research method was applied, which consisted of a quantitative and qualitative method approach. The focus groups and structured research interview questions were used as the main data collections instruments. The study consisted of sixty-two piggery small-scale farmers from three areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay metropole. The study found that there was a disparity between the perceptions and practice of small-scale farmers. Farmers perceived their practices as acceptable. However, on most of the farms the pigs were farmed in an unhygienic environment, had limited handling facilities, the farmers had unconventional methods to handle the pigs; there was poor support from technical services, many of the farmers never administered animal welfare evaluations and applied questionable feeding practices. The study also indicated that less than 15% had suitable facilities to accommodate suitable reproduction and piglet care. The researcher recommended the following interventions to improve animal welfare approaches with small-scale farmers in the Nelson Mandela Bay metropole: Training and information campaigns to improve small-scale piggery farmers' perception and knowledge of animal welfare, as well as market standards and requirements. Strengthening the relationship between the small-scale piggery farmers and animal welfare stakeholders. Including active engagement between small scale piggery farmers and the Department of Rural Development, Agrarian Reform and Urban Agriculture Unit of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Encouraging farmers to strive for stronger markets to facilitate better income and care of animals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Maqhajana, Mzwanele
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Animal welfare -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8079 , vital:24719
- Description: There has been an increasing concern about animal welfare in small-scale farming as the farmers' agricultural practices shift towards intensive agriculture. It has become important to comprehend how small-scale farmers perceive and practice animal welfare relative to production and market integration. To solve the research problem, the research emphasis was on assessing the following practices; procedures adopted by the small-scale farmers, welfare levels verses industry equirements for market integration; determinants affecting small-scale perceptions and attitudes towards animal welfare and how has animal welfare affected farm development and production. The research focus for this study was to investigate the linkage between perceptions and this process. In order to achieve a more in-depth understanding of the study while also ensuring its validity and correctness a triangulation research method was applied, which consisted of a quantitative and qualitative method approach. The focus groups and structured research interview questions were used as the main data collections instruments. The study consisted of sixty-two piggery small-scale farmers from three areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay metropole. The study found that there was a disparity between the perceptions and practice of small-scale farmers. Farmers perceived their practices as acceptable. However, on most of the farms the pigs were farmed in an unhygienic environment, had limited handling facilities, the farmers had unconventional methods to handle the pigs; there was poor support from technical services, many of the farmers never administered animal welfare evaluations and applied questionable feeding practices. The study also indicated that less than 15% had suitable facilities to accommodate suitable reproduction and piglet care. The researcher recommended the following interventions to improve animal welfare approaches with small-scale farmers in the Nelson Mandela Bay metropole: Training and information campaigns to improve small-scale piggery farmers' perception and knowledge of animal welfare, as well as market standards and requirements. Strengthening the relationship between the small-scale piggery farmers and animal welfare stakeholders. Including active engagement between small scale piggery farmers and the Department of Rural Development, Agrarian Reform and Urban Agriculture Unit of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Encouraging farmers to strive for stronger markets to facilitate better income and care of animals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions of internal rewards equity, equity sensitivity, psychological capital and work engagement
- Authors: Warneke, Kirsten Ruth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Work -- Psychological aspects , Job satisfaction , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4193 , vital:20565
- Description: Psychological capital and work engagement, both constructs rooted in positive psychology, have been associated with positive outcomes in the workplace, such as better job performance and organisational citizenship behaviours. The rewards practices of organisations have not been widely studied in relation to these positive psychological constructs, despite the clear importance of understanding how the way that employees are rewarded serves to motivate behaviour in the workplace. This study sought to bring together two rewards-centred constructs, namely, the perceptions of equity of rewards and the equity sensitivity of employees, and the two positive psychological constructs of psychological capital and work engagement, with the aim of understanding how these constructs relate to each other and, ultimately, discerning how reward systems might best be aligned to improve employee performance. A theoretical model was constructed based on a review of relevant literature, and eight hypotheses were set to test the model. This research took the form of a cross-sectional design, using a composite questionnaire to measure psychological capital, work engagement, equity sensitivity and perceptions of equity in rewards by means of a self-report electronic survey. Employees at a South African university were invited to participate in the study by means of an emailed invitation, and a sample of 305 respondents was achieved. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, which included frequency tables, Cronbach’s alpha testing, Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlations, chi-square tests, t-tests, analysis of variance, hierarchical regression analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modelling. The results of the survey showed that respondents had high levels of psychological capital with the exception of the medium scores on the Optimism dimension; levels of work engagement were high overall; responses regarding the perceptions of equity of rewards relating to promotions were most negative, with the rest of the perceptions of equity of rewards dimensions being scored neutrally; and scores for equity sensitivity showed a tendency toward a benevolent disposition. Significant differences were found between demographic groups in the sample for all of the constructs under investigation. Evidence was found in support of the hypothesised relationships in the theoretical model, with the exception of the hypothesised link between equity sensitivity and the perceptions of equity of rewards. The hypotheses regarding moderation relationships were not accepted, based on the results of the hierarchical regression analysis. Structural equation model testing resulted in unsatisfactory fit of the statistical model. Confirmatory factor analysis results provided support for the acceptability of the Equity Sensitivity Instrument, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and Psychological Capital Questionnaire for use on a South African sample. As far as it could be ascertained, the constructs under investigation have not been examined together before. The study therefore contributes uniquely to the existing body of positive organisational behaviour research, and begins to fill the gap identified in the Rewards literature. A number of recommendations for researchers and for organisations stemming from the study are put forward.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Warneke, Kirsten Ruth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Work -- Psychological aspects , Job satisfaction , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4193 , vital:20565
- Description: Psychological capital and work engagement, both constructs rooted in positive psychology, have been associated with positive outcomes in the workplace, such as better job performance and organisational citizenship behaviours. The rewards practices of organisations have not been widely studied in relation to these positive psychological constructs, despite the clear importance of understanding how the way that employees are rewarded serves to motivate behaviour in the workplace. This study sought to bring together two rewards-centred constructs, namely, the perceptions of equity of rewards and the equity sensitivity of employees, and the two positive psychological constructs of psychological capital and work engagement, with the aim of understanding how these constructs relate to each other and, ultimately, discerning how reward systems might best be aligned to improve employee performance. A theoretical model was constructed based on a review of relevant literature, and eight hypotheses were set to test the model. This research took the form of a cross-sectional design, using a composite questionnaire to measure psychological capital, work engagement, equity sensitivity and perceptions of equity in rewards by means of a self-report electronic survey. Employees at a South African university were invited to participate in the study by means of an emailed invitation, and a sample of 305 respondents was achieved. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, which included frequency tables, Cronbach’s alpha testing, Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlations, chi-square tests, t-tests, analysis of variance, hierarchical regression analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modelling. The results of the survey showed that respondents had high levels of psychological capital with the exception of the medium scores on the Optimism dimension; levels of work engagement were high overall; responses regarding the perceptions of equity of rewards relating to promotions were most negative, with the rest of the perceptions of equity of rewards dimensions being scored neutrally; and scores for equity sensitivity showed a tendency toward a benevolent disposition. Significant differences were found between demographic groups in the sample for all of the constructs under investigation. Evidence was found in support of the hypothesised relationships in the theoretical model, with the exception of the hypothesised link between equity sensitivity and the perceptions of equity of rewards. The hypotheses regarding moderation relationships were not accepted, based on the results of the hierarchical regression analysis. Structural equation model testing resulted in unsatisfactory fit of the statistical model. Confirmatory factor analysis results provided support for the acceptability of the Equity Sensitivity Instrument, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and Psychological Capital Questionnaire for use on a South African sample. As far as it could be ascertained, the constructs under investigation have not been examined together before. The study therefore contributes uniquely to the existing body of positive organisational behaviour research, and begins to fill the gap identified in the Rewards literature. A number of recommendations for researchers and for organisations stemming from the study are put forward.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions of quality of work-life: a study of the research fieldworkers in the Western Cape
- Douw-Jack, Nomfundo Princess
- Authors: Douw-Jack, Nomfundo Princess
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Quality of work life -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Research -- Methodology , Work environment -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7005 , vital:21190
- Description: Yadav & Khanna (2015) argue that quality of work life (QWL) defines the life at work and the life at home with family members. The work of research-fieldworkers is an exceptional work in that it requires them to frequent households and commercial businesses, unlike other occupations where the work is conducted at the workplace of the employer. The private households by their very nature, and the locations where these households are based present risky conditions to the research-fieldworkers. In order for remedial measures to be suggested that can be implemented to improve the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the agency, the perceptions of the QWL need to be investigated. Research objectives: To address the research problem, research objectives and questions were established. The main objective of the study is to investigate the perceptions of the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the research agency in the Western Cape with the goal of improving employee performance through the cost effective interventions that will be implemented. Research questions: Three research questions were established and these were; What is the QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape? Do some groups, distinguished by gender, age, work experience, working hours and location experience significantly different levels of QWL? Which measures can be recommended for maximizing QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape Province? Research design: The nature of this research is descriptive in nature. The study used a self-administered questionnaire to collect work-related quality of life information from research-fieldworkers. Major findings: The results above show that research-fieldworkers perceptions of the QWL were more affected by the location, working hours and age sub-groups. Gender, family responsibility and marital status did not have much impact on the perceptions of research-fieldworkers on the QWL. Differences were observed with regards to control at work, stress at work, home-work interface against sub-groups. Lastly, the fieldworkers’ perceptions about the working conditions were negative for all the sub-groups. For example, the results show that there are poor working conditions for research-fieldworkers of the agency. This was evident irrespective of gender, age, family responsibility, hours of work and location.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Douw-Jack, Nomfundo Princess
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Quality of work life -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Research -- Methodology , Work environment -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7005 , vital:21190
- Description: Yadav & Khanna (2015) argue that quality of work life (QWL) defines the life at work and the life at home with family members. The work of research-fieldworkers is an exceptional work in that it requires them to frequent households and commercial businesses, unlike other occupations where the work is conducted at the workplace of the employer. The private households by their very nature, and the locations where these households are based present risky conditions to the research-fieldworkers. In order for remedial measures to be suggested that can be implemented to improve the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the agency, the perceptions of the QWL need to be investigated. Research objectives: To address the research problem, research objectives and questions were established. The main objective of the study is to investigate the perceptions of the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the research agency in the Western Cape with the goal of improving employee performance through the cost effective interventions that will be implemented. Research questions: Three research questions were established and these were; What is the QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape? Do some groups, distinguished by gender, age, work experience, working hours and location experience significantly different levels of QWL? Which measures can be recommended for maximizing QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape Province? Research design: The nature of this research is descriptive in nature. The study used a self-administered questionnaire to collect work-related quality of life information from research-fieldworkers. Major findings: The results above show that research-fieldworkers perceptions of the QWL were more affected by the location, working hours and age sub-groups. Gender, family responsibility and marital status did not have much impact on the perceptions of research-fieldworkers on the QWL. Differences were observed with regards to control at work, stress at work, home-work interface against sub-groups. Lastly, the fieldworkers’ perceptions about the working conditions were negative for all the sub-groups. For example, the results show that there are poor working conditions for research-fieldworkers of the agency. This was evident irrespective of gender, age, family responsibility, hours of work and location.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions of the rules of business behaviour in the competitive banking environment in Uganda
- Mukasa, Herbert, Smith, Elroy Eugene
- Authors: Mukasa, Herbert , Smith, Elroy Eugene
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Business etiquette -- Uganda Banks and banking -- Uganda Financial services industry -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12297 , vital:27052
- Description: Business rules shape the behaviour of a business and guide the behaviour of employees when conducting business. Therefore, business rules explain what is allowed and not allowed. It is argued that all organisations have business rules and engage in some form of relationship whether through competition or cooperation with other companies. In today’s business environment, organisations are embedded in relationships with other actors in order to gain access to resources that are needed. Therefore, each organisation’s business rules define their strategies and actions. The type of business rule behaviour which is applied by organisations encourages them to grow by taking market share from rivals or creating new markets. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the rules of business behaviour on perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda and its potential impact on certain outcomes. In this study, a quantitative research approach was adopted, as the study sought to investigate the relationships between variables. This study collected data through the use of a structured self-administered survey questionnaire which was distributed to 233 branches of banks in Uganda, totaling 700 bank employees. The survey yielded 529 usable questionnaires which were analyzed, using several statistical analysis techniques. A hypothetical model and measuring instrument of perceptions of the rules of business behaviour in the competitive banking environment within Uganda was developed. Six null-hypotheses were subjected to statistical analysis. The influence of three independent variables, namely, confrontational business behaviour, co-operational business behaviour and typologies of competition on the intermediate variable, perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda were tested. The impact of these variables on three independent outcome variables, namely, organisational performance and customer loyalty and retention were also tested The empirical findings revealed that the rules of business behaviour have a significant relationship with perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda. These results showed that confrontational behaviour as a rule of business behaviour can be classified as being direct or indirect. The study further revealed that banks should consider competitors as co-partners and not only as aggressors, indicating that co-operational business behaviour is statistically significantly related to perceptions of the competitive business environment in Uganda. The three typologies of competition, namely, defy attack, defense and debase attack are also positively related to perceptions of the competitive business environment in Uganda. The empirical results of the study also indicated that perceptions of the competitive banking environment have a positive relationship with outcomes such as organisational performance, customer retention and customer loyalty. This study contributed to the literature and body of knowledge regarding the impact of rules of business behaviour in the competitive banking environment in Uganda. This study could also assist banks, employees and customers alike to understand the different rules of business behaviour that exist and what strategies banks can employ to improve their position in the market. This study could also be replicated by other banks in other developing countries so as to ensure successful competition and the cooperation of banks as they engage in their activities in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mukasa, Herbert , Smith, Elroy Eugene
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Business etiquette -- Uganda Banks and banking -- Uganda Financial services industry -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12297 , vital:27052
- Description: Business rules shape the behaviour of a business and guide the behaviour of employees when conducting business. Therefore, business rules explain what is allowed and not allowed. It is argued that all organisations have business rules and engage in some form of relationship whether through competition or cooperation with other companies. In today’s business environment, organisations are embedded in relationships with other actors in order to gain access to resources that are needed. Therefore, each organisation’s business rules define their strategies and actions. The type of business rule behaviour which is applied by organisations encourages them to grow by taking market share from rivals or creating new markets. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the rules of business behaviour on perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda and its potential impact on certain outcomes. In this study, a quantitative research approach was adopted, as the study sought to investigate the relationships between variables. This study collected data through the use of a structured self-administered survey questionnaire which was distributed to 233 branches of banks in Uganda, totaling 700 bank employees. The survey yielded 529 usable questionnaires which were analyzed, using several statistical analysis techniques. A hypothetical model and measuring instrument of perceptions of the rules of business behaviour in the competitive banking environment within Uganda was developed. Six null-hypotheses were subjected to statistical analysis. The influence of three independent variables, namely, confrontational business behaviour, co-operational business behaviour and typologies of competition on the intermediate variable, perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda were tested. The impact of these variables on three independent outcome variables, namely, organisational performance and customer loyalty and retention were also tested The empirical findings revealed that the rules of business behaviour have a significant relationship with perceptions of the competitive banking environment in Uganda. These results showed that confrontational behaviour as a rule of business behaviour can be classified as being direct or indirect. The study further revealed that banks should consider competitors as co-partners and not only as aggressors, indicating that co-operational business behaviour is statistically significantly related to perceptions of the competitive business environment in Uganda. The three typologies of competition, namely, defy attack, defense and debase attack are also positively related to perceptions of the competitive business environment in Uganda. The empirical results of the study also indicated that perceptions of the competitive banking environment have a positive relationship with outcomes such as organisational performance, customer retention and customer loyalty. This study contributed to the literature and body of knowledge regarding the impact of rules of business behaviour in the competitive banking environment in Uganda. This study could also assist banks, employees and customers alike to understand the different rules of business behaviour that exist and what strategies banks can employ to improve their position in the market. This study could also be replicated by other banks in other developing countries so as to ensure successful competition and the cooperation of banks as they engage in their activities in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions on risk management at Walter Sisulu University
- Authors: Qanga, Enathi Jongikhaya
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Risk management , Walter Sisulu University for Technology & Science
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3802 , vital:20464
- Description: With the rise in the complexity of business transactions and emerging prominence of worldwide corporate governance, companies are required to adhere to certain minimal standards of governance and risk management. Organisations take various kinds of risks depending on their operating environments and the gravity of their organisational needs (risk to a return trade-off). Taking risks can either provide benefits to an organisation or cause problems for it. Given the importance of risk management, studies conducted by universities throughout the world reveal serious concerns. The primary objective of this study was to establish perceptions on risk management at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). The literature review of the study provided a discussion concerning best practice as far as the COSO internal control framework, COSO enterprise risk management framework and key aspects of the Kings III report on risk assessment and risks faced by modern business. The study adopted the quantitative research approach using a case study design. A survey was conducted by distributing questionnaires to a selected sample of, Campus management (Deans), Internal auditing III students, Lecturers in commerce, Head of departments and support service personnel of WSU. A random sampling procedure identified thirty three participants and all the participants completed questionnaires across all campuses at WSU. Graphic presentation from Microsoft excel, inferential and basic descriptive statistics from SPSS were used to analyze and interpret data to generate findings. The study revealed that, all principles for the COSO components on internal control, COSO- ERM and the King III report are regarded to be present at WSU. Respondent perceptions falls within the positive zone being “neutral”, “effective” and “highly effective”. The population score is probably also in the neutral zone indicating a not sure respondent’s perception on whether the component or principle is effective or not effective. The Cronbach’s Alpha was conducted to test the internal reliability and consistency of the data. A Cronbach’s Alpha of summated score of 0.974 was achieved on 84 principles that could contribute to the effectiveness of risk management. The researcher recommends creating a risk-awareness culture throughout WSU rather than a silo approach to risk management. Monitoring on the effectiveness of the system of internal control need greater attention at WSU. In addition, the alignment of risk management to institutional strategy needs to be improved, and the University needs to establish and develop an enterprise-risk management policy (ERMP) and create a platform for further studies on risk management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Qanga, Enathi Jongikhaya
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Risk management , Walter Sisulu University for Technology & Science
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3802 , vital:20464
- Description: With the rise in the complexity of business transactions and emerging prominence of worldwide corporate governance, companies are required to adhere to certain minimal standards of governance and risk management. Organisations take various kinds of risks depending on their operating environments and the gravity of their organisational needs (risk to a return trade-off). Taking risks can either provide benefits to an organisation or cause problems for it. Given the importance of risk management, studies conducted by universities throughout the world reveal serious concerns. The primary objective of this study was to establish perceptions on risk management at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). The literature review of the study provided a discussion concerning best practice as far as the COSO internal control framework, COSO enterprise risk management framework and key aspects of the Kings III report on risk assessment and risks faced by modern business. The study adopted the quantitative research approach using a case study design. A survey was conducted by distributing questionnaires to a selected sample of, Campus management (Deans), Internal auditing III students, Lecturers in commerce, Head of departments and support service personnel of WSU. A random sampling procedure identified thirty three participants and all the participants completed questionnaires across all campuses at WSU. Graphic presentation from Microsoft excel, inferential and basic descriptive statistics from SPSS were used to analyze and interpret data to generate findings. The study revealed that, all principles for the COSO components on internal control, COSO- ERM and the King III report are regarded to be present at WSU. Respondent perceptions falls within the positive zone being “neutral”, “effective” and “highly effective”. The population score is probably also in the neutral zone indicating a not sure respondent’s perception on whether the component or principle is effective or not effective. The Cronbach’s Alpha was conducted to test the internal reliability and consistency of the data. A Cronbach’s Alpha of summated score of 0.974 was achieved on 84 principles that could contribute to the effectiveness of risk management. The researcher recommends creating a risk-awareness culture throughout WSU rather than a silo approach to risk management. Monitoring on the effectiveness of the system of internal control need greater attention at WSU. In addition, the alignment of risk management to institutional strategy needs to be improved, and the University needs to establish and develop an enterprise-risk management policy (ERMP) and create a platform for further studies on risk management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perceptions regarding organisational citizenship behaviour in South African retail firms
- Authors: Ngxukumeshe, Tandiswa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa Retail trade -- South Africa Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11898 , vital:27002
- Description: The wholesale and retail industry is a more volatile nudstry, with respect to cyclical changes and global economic conditions, than many other industries. The growth of technology in this industry has led to informed customers, bringing with them many challenges to retailers, as these retailers have to win customer loyalty by focusing not only on prices and quality, but also on global competition. The heterogeneity as well as the illusive preferences, expectations, personality characteristics, attitudes, and desires of customers have created diverse and fast-evolving customer demand. As a result, retailers need to source highly customer-focused employees who are willing to go beyond their expected call of duties to satisfy customer needs and wants, thereby keeping firms competitive. This behaviour is called organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). OCB involves extra-role performance, which represents behaviours not formally required by any particular job, but which help to develop the social context of all jobs, thus facilitating effectiveness. Thus, retailers who encourage OCB among their employees are more likely to improve the performance of both the organisation and the employees, and increase the organisation’s competitiveness in the global economy. The primary objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of employees regarding OCB within retail firms in South Africa. A positivistic research paradigm was used, in this study, by means of quantitative research. Secondary data in the form of textbooks, journal articles and Internet sources provided the theoretical framework for this study. Primary data was obtained using the survey method, by means of self-administered structured questionnaires. The aim was to target 1000 employees in the retail industry (250 employees from each of the most economically active provinces, namely, the Eastern Cape; the Western Cape, Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal). However, 690 questionnaires were returned and only 554 were usable, which amounts to an effective response rate of 80%. Seven null-hypotheses and a hypothetical model of employee perceptions regarding OCB behaviour in retail firms were tested. The influence of four independent variables were tested, these are: job perceptions, role considerations, organisational climate and employment considerations on OCB. In addition, three dependent variables, namely, employee commitment, propensity to leave and employee engagement were tested. The Statistica (version 12) computer programme was used to analyse the results by means of advanced statistical techniques (such as exploratory factor analysis, regression and correlation analysis) as well as descriptive analysis and frequency distributions. After various statistical procedures, the model was re-specified, some of the variables were renamed and the hypotheses were adjusted accordingly. The empirical results revealed that job considerations and employment considerations have a positive influence on both OCB related to compassion and OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts, while role considerations and job security were found to have no significant influence on both OCB related to compassion and OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts. Furthermore, the empirical results showed that OCB related to compassion have a positive influence on both organisational commitment and propensity to resign, while OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts has a positive influence on organisational commitment and its influence on propensity to resign was not significant. It is envisaged that the results of this study could assist retail firms to understand the variables that influence the organisational citizenship behaviour of employees. In addition, it is further envisaged that the results and recommendations of this study could be used to implement effective strategies in retail firms in order to ensure effective engagement in OCB related behaviour and to create awareness of the importance of employee engagement in organisational citizenship behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ngxukumeshe, Tandiswa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa Retail trade -- South Africa Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11898 , vital:27002
- Description: The wholesale and retail industry is a more volatile nudstry, with respect to cyclical changes and global economic conditions, than many other industries. The growth of technology in this industry has led to informed customers, bringing with them many challenges to retailers, as these retailers have to win customer loyalty by focusing not only on prices and quality, but also on global competition. The heterogeneity as well as the illusive preferences, expectations, personality characteristics, attitudes, and desires of customers have created diverse and fast-evolving customer demand. As a result, retailers need to source highly customer-focused employees who are willing to go beyond their expected call of duties to satisfy customer needs and wants, thereby keeping firms competitive. This behaviour is called organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). OCB involves extra-role performance, which represents behaviours not formally required by any particular job, but which help to develop the social context of all jobs, thus facilitating effectiveness. Thus, retailers who encourage OCB among their employees are more likely to improve the performance of both the organisation and the employees, and increase the organisation’s competitiveness in the global economy. The primary objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of employees regarding OCB within retail firms in South Africa. A positivistic research paradigm was used, in this study, by means of quantitative research. Secondary data in the form of textbooks, journal articles and Internet sources provided the theoretical framework for this study. Primary data was obtained using the survey method, by means of self-administered structured questionnaires. The aim was to target 1000 employees in the retail industry (250 employees from each of the most economically active provinces, namely, the Eastern Cape; the Western Cape, Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal). However, 690 questionnaires were returned and only 554 were usable, which amounts to an effective response rate of 80%. Seven null-hypotheses and a hypothetical model of employee perceptions regarding OCB behaviour in retail firms were tested. The influence of four independent variables were tested, these are: job perceptions, role considerations, organisational climate and employment considerations on OCB. In addition, three dependent variables, namely, employee commitment, propensity to leave and employee engagement were tested. The Statistica (version 12) computer programme was used to analyse the results by means of advanced statistical techniques (such as exploratory factor analysis, regression and correlation analysis) as well as descriptive analysis and frequency distributions. After various statistical procedures, the model was re-specified, some of the variables were renamed and the hypotheses were adjusted accordingly. The empirical results revealed that job considerations and employment considerations have a positive influence on both OCB related to compassion and OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts, while role considerations and job security were found to have no significant influence on both OCB related to compassion and OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts. Furthermore, the empirical results showed that OCB related to compassion have a positive influence on both organisational commitment and propensity to resign, while OCB related to civic non-obligatory acts has a positive influence on organisational commitment and its influence on propensity to resign was not significant. It is envisaged that the results of this study could assist retail firms to understand the variables that influence the organisational citizenship behaviour of employees. In addition, it is further envisaged that the results and recommendations of this study could be used to implement effective strategies in retail firms in order to ensure effective engagement in OCB related behaviour and to create awareness of the importance of employee engagement in organisational citizenship behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Personality traits and emotional intelligence as predictors of sustainable commercial agricultural producers in South Africa
- Authors: Posthumus, Karen-Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa Emotional intelligence -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10399 , vital:26742
- Description: The dual agriculture sector in South Africa comprises both a well-developed commercial farming and a smaller scale communal component. It is however, the commercial sector that is relied upon for food security. The multi-dimensional and complex nature of agricultural production in South Africa demands that sustainable commercial farmers of the future need to demonstrate the ability to effectively handle a multitude of tasks, which may be a function of individual personality traits and emotional intelligence. In this paper, the contribution of individual differences in personality and emotional intelligence as drivers for sustainability of South African commercial agricultural producers was investigated for inclusion into a selection model defining the entry-level requirements (skills, knowledge and competencies) for this occupation. Despite several studies that reported on the personality traits of farmers on a global level, no reports are found on similar studies conducted within a South African context. The main objective of this study was to improve the sustainability of all commercial agricultural producers in South Africa by investigating the personality traits and emotional intelligence driving that sustainability. This study focused on the commercial farming sector in South Africa, which has a unique need to integrate emerging/new farmers into the modern agricultural value chain. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Land Reform Bill (South Africa, 2015) as set out in the government’s National Development Plan (South Africa, 2012). The population of the study comprised commercial agricultural producers throughout South Africa and the sample frame was the estimated 40 000 commercial agricultural producers from whom the sample was drawn. The sampling method employed was snowball sampling (non-probability sampling) with the sampling unit selected on a degree of personal judgement. Quantitative questionnaires were administered to 60 commercial farmers throughout South Africa. Quantitative data was analysed using the STATISTICA Version 10.0 (2011) computer software programme and results were presented in tabulated format. The empirical results revealed that amongst the independent variables investigated in this study, only two variables were significantly related to the successful implementation of sustainable farming; they are neuroticism and management of emotions. Emanating from the findings of this study, recommendations were made to respective role-players on how to manage and support these findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Posthumus, Karen-Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa Emotional intelligence -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10399 , vital:26742
- Description: The dual agriculture sector in South Africa comprises both a well-developed commercial farming and a smaller scale communal component. It is however, the commercial sector that is relied upon for food security. The multi-dimensional and complex nature of agricultural production in South Africa demands that sustainable commercial farmers of the future need to demonstrate the ability to effectively handle a multitude of tasks, which may be a function of individual personality traits and emotional intelligence. In this paper, the contribution of individual differences in personality and emotional intelligence as drivers for sustainability of South African commercial agricultural producers was investigated for inclusion into a selection model defining the entry-level requirements (skills, knowledge and competencies) for this occupation. Despite several studies that reported on the personality traits of farmers on a global level, no reports are found on similar studies conducted within a South African context. The main objective of this study was to improve the sustainability of all commercial agricultural producers in South Africa by investigating the personality traits and emotional intelligence driving that sustainability. This study focused on the commercial farming sector in South Africa, which has a unique need to integrate emerging/new farmers into the modern agricultural value chain. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Land Reform Bill (South Africa, 2015) as set out in the government’s National Development Plan (South Africa, 2012). The population of the study comprised commercial agricultural producers throughout South Africa and the sample frame was the estimated 40 000 commercial agricultural producers from whom the sample was drawn. The sampling method employed was snowball sampling (non-probability sampling) with the sampling unit selected on a degree of personal judgement. Quantitative questionnaires were administered to 60 commercial farmers throughout South Africa. Quantitative data was analysed using the STATISTICA Version 10.0 (2011) computer software programme and results were presented in tabulated format. The empirical results revealed that amongst the independent variables investigated in this study, only two variables were significantly related to the successful implementation of sustainable farming; they are neuroticism and management of emotions. Emanating from the findings of this study, recommendations were made to respective role-players on how to manage and support these findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Personality traits and self-presentation on Facebook: a systematic review
- Authors: Venter, Doreen Yvonne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Facebook (Electronic resource) -- Psychological aspects Personality Social media -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13272 , vital:27170
- Description: The influence of the Internet and Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) on the ways in which individuals with different personality traits present themselves, has been brought into question increasingly as modern life requires more and more of an enmeshment with technology in everyday life. The presentation of the self on Facebook has been the focus of recent research, delivering results that vary and sometimes contradict common ideas of the effects of individuals’ interaction via technology, especially in terms of how personality traits, as determined by the Five-factor model, impact self-presentation. A systematic review of the available literature was conducted, in order to bring about a consolidated description of the literature on the impact of personality traits on Facebook self-presentation. From 37 studies, the review found the motivation for Facebook use to be a mediating factor in the relationship between personality traits. Each personality trait in the Five-factor model impacts upon Facebook use, self-generated content, other-generated content, and the nature of the individual’s self-disclosure in varied ways. Due to visible cues on users’ profiles, some personality traits can be accurately detected by observers. The complexity and interrelatedness of variables involved in this relationship is highlighted by the findings of this review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Venter, Doreen Yvonne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Facebook (Electronic resource) -- Psychological aspects Personality Social media -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13272 , vital:27170
- Description: The influence of the Internet and Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) on the ways in which individuals with different personality traits present themselves, has been brought into question increasingly as modern life requires more and more of an enmeshment with technology in everyday life. The presentation of the self on Facebook has been the focus of recent research, delivering results that vary and sometimes contradict common ideas of the effects of individuals’ interaction via technology, especially in terms of how personality traits, as determined by the Five-factor model, impact self-presentation. A systematic review of the available literature was conducted, in order to bring about a consolidated description of the literature on the impact of personality traits on Facebook self-presentation. From 37 studies, the review found the motivation for Facebook use to be a mediating factor in the relationship between personality traits. Each personality trait in the Five-factor model impacts upon Facebook use, self-generated content, other-generated content, and the nature of the individual’s self-disclosure in varied ways. Due to visible cues on users’ profiles, some personality traits can be accurately detected by observers. The complexity and interrelatedness of variables involved in this relationship is highlighted by the findings of this review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Perspectives of the historical–biographical criticism In the creative works of J. J. R. Jolobe
- Khumalo, Hlonpha Pamela Vivienne, Kwatsha, Linda Loretta
- Authors: Khumalo, Hlonpha Pamela Vivienne , Kwatsha, Linda Loretta
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African literature -- History and criticism -- Biography Xhosa literature -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21983 , vital:29809
- Description: Olu phando lohlalutyo lukwaluncomo-gxeko lwemisebenzi kaJolobe, injongo yalo kukubonisa ukuba lukho uqhagamshelwano phakathi kobomi bakhe jikelele kunye noncwadi lwakhe. Ulwazi olunjalo lungathi lube luncedo kwiphulo elibalulekileyo ekuncediseni kulwazi lokubhala ibhayografi yakhe. Kubonakele kufanelekile ukuba iphulo elinjalo lenziwe ukukhumbula imisebenzi emikhulu eyenziwe ngamaqhawe abantu abaNtsundu abathe banegalelo elikhulu ekuphakanyiswni koncwadi lwemvelo kwakunye nenkuqubela phambili kwimfundo yabantu abangama-Afrika beli lizwe. Umzekelo uJolobe ulusebenzele ukuba uncwadi lwakhe ukuxwayisa abantu bakowabo abaNtsundu ngemfundo nolwazi olwakhaya. Ukwalusebenzise uncwadi lwakhe ukuvusa abantu ama-Afrika balumke kwingozi zemimoya yocinezelo lwabo ngurhulumente ocalule abantu abaNtsundu kuba bebantsundu ngebala. Nangona uncwadi lwakhe ulenze lwabasisonwabiso kodwa ikhakhulu ulusebenzise kwanokunika intuthuzelo, ithemba kwanokomelela kubantu abathe bacinezelwe zimeko zobomi ukuba bangalahli ithemba loluzuza impumelelo, kuba izinto zingatshintsha ebomini babo ngokuhamba kwamaxesha. Kwakhona ukongeza uncwadi lwakhe ulusebenzise ukuphakamisa nokuhambisela phambili ulwimi lwemveli, inkcubeko, imbali ngokusebenzisa isixhobo esiluncwadi lwakhe ukuze ezi ngongoma zikhankanyisweyo zihlale ezincwadini zakhe ezithe zazisele zolwazi, zingabi nakuze zife kuba zililifa lesizwe esiNtsundu, Uninzi loncwadi olubhalwe nguJolobe luthe lwaxoxwa kwesi sifundo, kodwa kuye kwaphonongwa ikakhulu uncwadi lwemibongo, inoveli idrama kuba kubonakele ukuba lo msebenzi ubanzi kakhulu kwaye esi sifundo kubonakele ukuba kungabanzima ukuba singagqibeka lula, kodwa ke uJolobe ubengumntu okhutheleyo. Ubhale incwadi eziliqela ngenxa yothando lwakhe lobhalo loncwadi oluqhutywe ngumbono wakhe wobuthandazwe, wokubona kubalulekile ukuba inani loncwadi olubhaliweyo esiXhoseni linyuke kwaye libe kwizinga eliphezulu, ukuze umzi wasemaXhoseni nowamanye ama-Afrika ngokubanzi ungalambathi ngoncwadi lokufunda ujongelwe phantsi ngokuba semva kwinkqubela phambili zezinye izizwe Ingokuphandle uncwadi lukaJolobe lubonakela luyinxenye yobomi bakhe. Kulunye uncwadi kwakhe kufumaniseka ukuba ukubhale endululwe zizinto ezithe azamphatha kakuhle ebomini bakhe zazaza ezo zinto zawuphazamisa umoya wakhe, nentlalo yakhe wada waqanda ukuba makabhale aphokoze okukuphuphuma kwengcinga zakhe ukuzithuthuzela kwanokuphilisa kwanabanye abantu abathe badibana neenzima ezinjalo zobomi. Umzekelo: iimeko zopolitiko zeli lizwe zithe zabuchaphazela ubomi bakhe, oko kubesisiphumo sokuba abhale incwadi yakhe yedrama apho adiza ngeemeko zokuphatheka kwabantu baseBhayi kwilokishi eyathi yabelwa bona ngurhulumnte wobandlululo, apho ebexelenga khona njengetitshala kwanoMfundisi weliZwi. Kanti noncwadi apho athe wabonisa ukuvuya khona olo luvuyo olusukela kwinto ethe yamvuyisa emalunga nobomi bakhe, izimvo zakhe kwanenkolo yakhe njengomntu, kwanendlela akhule ngayo. Umzekelo, uJolobe uye wazisa abafundi bakhe ukuba iimbalo zakhe zisukele kwizinto ezithe zamchukumisa ebomini bakhe. Ngoko ke kwabonakala ukuba olu phando luluncedo ekusungulweni kweprojekti yokubhalwa kwebhayografi kaJolobe neya kuba luncedo kwimisebenzi yophando olubalulekileyo kuncwadi kuba iincwadi ezinje zityebile ngolwazi olubalulekileyo ekungena kucingelwa ukuba lunokufunyanwa kulo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Khumalo, Hlonpha Pamela Vivienne , Kwatsha, Linda Loretta
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African literature -- History and criticism -- Biography Xhosa literature -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21983 , vital:29809
- Description: Olu phando lohlalutyo lukwaluncomo-gxeko lwemisebenzi kaJolobe, injongo yalo kukubonisa ukuba lukho uqhagamshelwano phakathi kobomi bakhe jikelele kunye noncwadi lwakhe. Ulwazi olunjalo lungathi lube luncedo kwiphulo elibalulekileyo ekuncediseni kulwazi lokubhala ibhayografi yakhe. Kubonakele kufanelekile ukuba iphulo elinjalo lenziwe ukukhumbula imisebenzi emikhulu eyenziwe ngamaqhawe abantu abaNtsundu abathe banegalelo elikhulu ekuphakanyiswni koncwadi lwemvelo kwakunye nenkuqubela phambili kwimfundo yabantu abangama-Afrika beli lizwe. Umzekelo uJolobe ulusebenzele ukuba uncwadi lwakhe ukuxwayisa abantu bakowabo abaNtsundu ngemfundo nolwazi olwakhaya. Ukwalusebenzise uncwadi lwakhe ukuvusa abantu ama-Afrika balumke kwingozi zemimoya yocinezelo lwabo ngurhulumente ocalule abantu abaNtsundu kuba bebantsundu ngebala. Nangona uncwadi lwakhe ulenze lwabasisonwabiso kodwa ikhakhulu ulusebenzise kwanokunika intuthuzelo, ithemba kwanokomelela kubantu abathe bacinezelwe zimeko zobomi ukuba bangalahli ithemba loluzuza impumelelo, kuba izinto zingatshintsha ebomini babo ngokuhamba kwamaxesha. Kwakhona ukongeza uncwadi lwakhe ulusebenzise ukuphakamisa nokuhambisela phambili ulwimi lwemveli, inkcubeko, imbali ngokusebenzisa isixhobo esiluncwadi lwakhe ukuze ezi ngongoma zikhankanyisweyo zihlale ezincwadini zakhe ezithe zazisele zolwazi, zingabi nakuze zife kuba zililifa lesizwe esiNtsundu, Uninzi loncwadi olubhalwe nguJolobe luthe lwaxoxwa kwesi sifundo, kodwa kuye kwaphonongwa ikakhulu uncwadi lwemibongo, inoveli idrama kuba kubonakele ukuba lo msebenzi ubanzi kakhulu kwaye esi sifundo kubonakele ukuba kungabanzima ukuba singagqibeka lula, kodwa ke uJolobe ubengumntu okhutheleyo. Ubhale incwadi eziliqela ngenxa yothando lwakhe lobhalo loncwadi oluqhutywe ngumbono wakhe wobuthandazwe, wokubona kubalulekile ukuba inani loncwadi olubhaliweyo esiXhoseni linyuke kwaye libe kwizinga eliphezulu, ukuze umzi wasemaXhoseni nowamanye ama-Afrika ngokubanzi ungalambathi ngoncwadi lokufunda ujongelwe phantsi ngokuba semva kwinkqubela phambili zezinye izizwe Ingokuphandle uncwadi lukaJolobe lubonakela luyinxenye yobomi bakhe. Kulunye uncwadi kwakhe kufumaniseka ukuba ukubhale endululwe zizinto ezithe azamphatha kakuhle ebomini bakhe zazaza ezo zinto zawuphazamisa umoya wakhe, nentlalo yakhe wada waqanda ukuba makabhale aphokoze okukuphuphuma kwengcinga zakhe ukuzithuthuzela kwanokuphilisa kwanabanye abantu abathe badibana neenzima ezinjalo zobomi. Umzekelo: iimeko zopolitiko zeli lizwe zithe zabuchaphazela ubomi bakhe, oko kubesisiphumo sokuba abhale incwadi yakhe yedrama apho adiza ngeemeko zokuphatheka kwabantu baseBhayi kwilokishi eyathi yabelwa bona ngurhulumnte wobandlululo, apho ebexelenga khona njengetitshala kwanoMfundisi weliZwi. Kanti noncwadi apho athe wabonisa ukuvuya khona olo luvuyo olusukela kwinto ethe yamvuyisa emalunga nobomi bakhe, izimvo zakhe kwanenkolo yakhe njengomntu, kwanendlela akhule ngayo. Umzekelo, uJolobe uye wazisa abafundi bakhe ukuba iimbalo zakhe zisukele kwizinto ezithe zamchukumisa ebomini bakhe. Ngoko ke kwabonakala ukuba olu phando luluncedo ekusungulweni kweprojekti yokubhalwa kwebhayografi kaJolobe neya kuba luncedo kwimisebenzi yophando olubalulekileyo kuncwadi kuba iincwadi ezinje zityebile ngolwazi olubalulekileyo ekungena kucingelwa ukuba lunokufunyanwa kulo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Photographing other selves: collecting, collections and collaborative visual identity
- Authors: Minkley, Hannah Smith
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Documentary photography -- South Africa Semiotics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12669 , vital:27105
- Description: This study is situated in a social documentary photography context, and is concerned to explore whether the collaborative interaction between photographer, subject (as collector) and material object (as collection) might enable a practice that presents a more mutual and subject-centred visual identity emerge. In particular, photographers Jim Goldberg and Gideon Mendel have focused more on the subject themselves, using collaborative processes such as photo-voice and photo elicitation, as well as the use of peoples’ handwritten captions on photographic prints themselves. Claudia Mitchell’s overview of visual methodologies is drawn on, together with Ken Plummer’s Documents of Life 2 (2001) and Gillian Rose’s Visual Methodologies (2001) to extend on these possibilities of conducting collaborative visual research.The practical component of this study focuses on personal collections and follows a number of theorists, including Susan Pearce, and John Elsner and Roger Cardinal. It follows Pearce’s identification of three major modes of collecting, and suggests that collections are essentially narratives of the self, and reveal experiences and expressions of personal desire. By drawing on these approaches and the various ways the twelve collectors were photographed, as well as implementing collaborative research processes (handwritten text, archival photographs and the re-staging of the collections), the study confirms Pearce’s three primary modes of collecting, and acknowledges that they are often interlinked or overlap one another. The study further found that a more subject voiced visual identity did indeed become apparent through the collaborative methods applied and discussed. The collaborative research equally demonstrated that these narratives of identity are not singular, but rather narratives of multiple, personal identities of the self.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Minkley, Hannah Smith
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Documentary photography -- South Africa Semiotics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12669 , vital:27105
- Description: This study is situated in a social documentary photography context, and is concerned to explore whether the collaborative interaction between photographer, subject (as collector) and material object (as collection) might enable a practice that presents a more mutual and subject-centred visual identity emerge. In particular, photographers Jim Goldberg and Gideon Mendel have focused more on the subject themselves, using collaborative processes such as photo-voice and photo elicitation, as well as the use of peoples’ handwritten captions on photographic prints themselves. Claudia Mitchell’s overview of visual methodologies is drawn on, together with Ken Plummer’s Documents of Life 2 (2001) and Gillian Rose’s Visual Methodologies (2001) to extend on these possibilities of conducting collaborative visual research.The practical component of this study focuses on personal collections and follows a number of theorists, including Susan Pearce, and John Elsner and Roger Cardinal. It follows Pearce’s identification of three major modes of collecting, and suggests that collections are essentially narratives of the self, and reveal experiences and expressions of personal desire. By drawing on these approaches and the various ways the twelve collectors were photographed, as well as implementing collaborative research processes (handwritten text, archival photographs and the re-staging of the collections), the study confirms Pearce’s three primary modes of collecting, and acknowledges that they are often interlinked or overlap one another. The study further found that a more subject voiced visual identity did indeed become apparent through the collaborative methods applied and discussed. The collaborative research equally demonstrated that these narratives of identity are not singular, but rather narratives of multiple, personal identities of the self.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Physical properties of solid-state erythromycin derived compounds
- Authors: Neglur, Rekha R
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Erythromycin -- Thermal properties , Azithromycin -- Thermal properties
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7228 , vital:21308
- Description: This thesis investigated the physical properties of the macrolide antibiotics: Erythromycin dihydrate (EM-DH), Roxithromycin monohydrate (RM-MH) and Azithromycin dihydrate (AZM-DH). The abovementioned hydrate compounds were investigated in terms of the hydrate-anhydrate crystal structure stability, dehydration and observed polymorphism under controlled temperature heating programs. Identified hydrate and anhydrate polymorphs were subjected to physical stability testing during controlled storage. EM-DH was characterized by thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), X-ray diffraction, FTIR and microscopy. Dehydration of EM-DH at temperatures of 100, 157 and 200°C (followed by supercooling to 25°C) produced the form (I) anhydrate (Tm =142.9°C), form (II) anhydrate (Tm = 184.7°C ) and amorph (II) (Tg = 118°C) respectively. The attempts to produce amorph (I) from melting (in vicinity of form (I) melt over temperature range 133°C to 144°C) and supercooling was unsuccessful due to the high crystallization tendency of the form (I) melt. Brief humidity exposure and controlled temperature (40°C)/ humidity storage for 4 days (0-96% RH) revealed hygroscopic behaviour for the anhydrate crystal (forms (I) and (II)) and amorph (II) forms. Form (II) converted to a nonstoichiometric hydrate where extent of water vapour absorption increased with increased storage humidity (2.1% absorbed moisture from recorded TGA at 96% RH). Amorph (II) exhibited similar trends but with greater water absorption of 4.7% (recorded with TGA) at 96% RH. The pulverization and sieving process of amorph (II) (at normal environmental conditions) was accompanied by some water vapour absorption (1.1%). A slightly lower absorbed moisture content of 3.3% (from TGA) after controlled 4 days storage at 40°C/ 96% RH was recorded. This suggested some physical instability (crystallization tendency) of amorph (II) after pulverization. The thermally induced dehydration of RM-MH by DSC-TG was evaluated structurally (SCXRD), morphologically (microscopy) and by kinetic analysis. Various kinetic analysis approaches were employed (advanced, approximation based integral and differential kinetic analysis methods) in order to obtain reliable dehydration kinetic parameters. The crystal structure was little affected by dehydration as most H-bonds were intramolecular and not integral to the crystal structure stability. Kinetic parameters from thermally stimulated dehydration indicated a multidimensional diffusion based mechanism, due to the escape of water from interlinked voids in crystal. The hygroscopicity of the forms RM-MH, Roxithromycin-anhydrate and amorph glass (Tg = 81.4°C) were investigated. Roxithromycinanhydrate (crystalline) converted readily to RM-MH which were found to be compositionally stable over the humidity range 43-96%RH. Amorphous glass exhibited increased water vapour absorption with increasing storage humidity (40°C/ 0-96% RH). TG analysis suggested a moisture content of 3.5% at 96% RH after 4 storage days. DSC and powder XRD analysis of stored pulverised amorphous glass indicated some physical instability due to water induced crystallization. Commercial AZM-DH and its modifications were characterized by thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), SC-XRD and microscopy. Thermally stimulated dehydration of AZM-DH occurred in a two-step process over different temperature ranges. This was attributed to different bonding environments for coordinated waters which were also verified from the crystal structure. Dehydration activation energies for thermally stimulated dehydration were however similar for both loss steps. This was attributed to similarities in the mode of H- bonding. Different forms of AZM were prepared by programmed temperature heating and cooling of AZM-DH. The prepared forms included amorphous glass (melt supercooling), amorphous powder (prepared below crystalline melting temperature), crystalline anhydrate and crystalline partial dehydrate. Humidity exposure indicated hygroscopic behaviour for the amorphous, crystalline anhydrate and crystalline partial dehydrate modifications. Both the crystalline anhydrate and partial dehydrate modifications converted to the stoichiometric dihydrate form (AZM-DH) at normal environmental conditions at ambient temperature. Both the amorph glass and amorph powder exhibited increased moisture absorption with increased humidity exposure. TG analysis of the pulverised amorph glass indicated a moisture content of 5.1% at 96% RH after 4 storage days. The absence of crystalline melt in DSC and presence of Tg (106.9°C) indicated the sample remained amorphous after pulverisation and storage for 4 days at 40°C/ 96% RH.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Neglur, Rekha R
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Erythromycin -- Thermal properties , Azithromycin -- Thermal properties
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7228 , vital:21308
- Description: This thesis investigated the physical properties of the macrolide antibiotics: Erythromycin dihydrate (EM-DH), Roxithromycin monohydrate (RM-MH) and Azithromycin dihydrate (AZM-DH). The abovementioned hydrate compounds were investigated in terms of the hydrate-anhydrate crystal structure stability, dehydration and observed polymorphism under controlled temperature heating programs. Identified hydrate and anhydrate polymorphs were subjected to physical stability testing during controlled storage. EM-DH was characterized by thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), X-ray diffraction, FTIR and microscopy. Dehydration of EM-DH at temperatures of 100, 157 and 200°C (followed by supercooling to 25°C) produced the form (I) anhydrate (Tm =142.9°C), form (II) anhydrate (Tm = 184.7°C ) and amorph (II) (Tg = 118°C) respectively. The attempts to produce amorph (I) from melting (in vicinity of form (I) melt over temperature range 133°C to 144°C) and supercooling was unsuccessful due to the high crystallization tendency of the form (I) melt. Brief humidity exposure and controlled temperature (40°C)/ humidity storage for 4 days (0-96% RH) revealed hygroscopic behaviour for the anhydrate crystal (forms (I) and (II)) and amorph (II) forms. Form (II) converted to a nonstoichiometric hydrate where extent of water vapour absorption increased with increased storage humidity (2.1% absorbed moisture from recorded TGA at 96% RH). Amorph (II) exhibited similar trends but with greater water absorption of 4.7% (recorded with TGA) at 96% RH. The pulverization and sieving process of amorph (II) (at normal environmental conditions) was accompanied by some water vapour absorption (1.1%). A slightly lower absorbed moisture content of 3.3% (from TGA) after controlled 4 days storage at 40°C/ 96% RH was recorded. This suggested some physical instability (crystallization tendency) of amorph (II) after pulverization. The thermally induced dehydration of RM-MH by DSC-TG was evaluated structurally (SCXRD), morphologically (microscopy) and by kinetic analysis. Various kinetic analysis approaches were employed (advanced, approximation based integral and differential kinetic analysis methods) in order to obtain reliable dehydration kinetic parameters. The crystal structure was little affected by dehydration as most H-bonds were intramolecular and not integral to the crystal structure stability. Kinetic parameters from thermally stimulated dehydration indicated a multidimensional diffusion based mechanism, due to the escape of water from interlinked voids in crystal. The hygroscopicity of the forms RM-MH, Roxithromycin-anhydrate and amorph glass (Tg = 81.4°C) were investigated. Roxithromycinanhydrate (crystalline) converted readily to RM-MH which were found to be compositionally stable over the humidity range 43-96%RH. Amorphous glass exhibited increased water vapour absorption with increasing storage humidity (40°C/ 0-96% RH). TG analysis suggested a moisture content of 3.5% at 96% RH after 4 storage days. DSC and powder XRD analysis of stored pulverised amorphous glass indicated some physical instability due to water induced crystallization. Commercial AZM-DH and its modifications were characterized by thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), SC-XRD and microscopy. Thermally stimulated dehydration of AZM-DH occurred in a two-step process over different temperature ranges. This was attributed to different bonding environments for coordinated waters which were also verified from the crystal structure. Dehydration activation energies for thermally stimulated dehydration were however similar for both loss steps. This was attributed to similarities in the mode of H- bonding. Different forms of AZM were prepared by programmed temperature heating and cooling of AZM-DH. The prepared forms included amorphous glass (melt supercooling), amorphous powder (prepared below crystalline melting temperature), crystalline anhydrate and crystalline partial dehydrate. Humidity exposure indicated hygroscopic behaviour for the amorphous, crystalline anhydrate and crystalline partial dehydrate modifications. Both the crystalline anhydrate and partial dehydrate modifications converted to the stoichiometric dihydrate form (AZM-DH) at normal environmental conditions at ambient temperature. Both the amorph glass and amorph powder exhibited increased moisture absorption with increased humidity exposure. TG analysis of the pulverised amorph glass indicated a moisture content of 5.1% at 96% RH after 4 storage days. The absence of crystalline melt in DSC and presence of Tg (106.9°C) indicated the sample remained amorphous after pulverisation and storage for 4 days at 40°C/ 96% RH.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Physicians' perspectives on personal health records: a descriptive study
- Authors: Harmse, Magda Susanna
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing , Medical records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Personal information management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6876 , vital:21156
- Description: A Personal Health Record (PHR) is an electronic record of a patient’s health-related information that is managed by the patient. The patient can give access to other parties, such as healthcare providers and family members, as they see fit. These parties can use the information in emergency situations, in order to help improve the patient’s healthcare. PHRs have an important role to play in ensuring that a patient’s complete health history is available to his healthcare providers at the point of care. This is especially true in South Africa, where the majority of healthcare organizations still rely on paper-based methods of record-keeping. Research indicates that physicians play an important role in encouraging the adoption of PHRs amongst patients. Whilst various studies have focused on the perceptions of South African citizens towards PHRs, to date no research has focused on the perceptions of South African physicians. Considering the importance of physicians in encouraging the adoption of PHRs, the problem being addressed by this research project thus relates to the lack of information relating to the perceptions of South African physicians of PHRs. Physicians with private practices at private hospitals in Port Elizabeth, South Africa were surveyed in order to determine their perceptions towards PHRs. Results indicate perceptions regarding benefits to the physician and the patient, as well as concerns to the physician and the patient. The levels of trust in various potential PHR providers and the potential uses of a PHR for the physician were also explored. The results of the survey were compared with the results of relevant international literature in order to describe the perceptions of physicians towards PHRs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Harmse, Magda Susanna
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing , Medical records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Personal information management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6876 , vital:21156
- Description: A Personal Health Record (PHR) is an electronic record of a patient’s health-related information that is managed by the patient. The patient can give access to other parties, such as healthcare providers and family members, as they see fit. These parties can use the information in emergency situations, in order to help improve the patient’s healthcare. PHRs have an important role to play in ensuring that a patient’s complete health history is available to his healthcare providers at the point of care. This is especially true in South Africa, where the majority of healthcare organizations still rely on paper-based methods of record-keeping. Research indicates that physicians play an important role in encouraging the adoption of PHRs amongst patients. Whilst various studies have focused on the perceptions of South African citizens towards PHRs, to date no research has focused on the perceptions of South African physicians. Considering the importance of physicians in encouraging the adoption of PHRs, the problem being addressed by this research project thus relates to the lack of information relating to the perceptions of South African physicians of PHRs. Physicians with private practices at private hospitals in Port Elizabeth, South Africa were surveyed in order to determine their perceptions towards PHRs. Results indicate perceptions regarding benefits to the physician and the patient, as well as concerns to the physician and the patient. The levels of trust in various potential PHR providers and the potential uses of a PHR for the physician were also explored. The results of the survey were compared with the results of relevant international literature in order to describe the perceptions of physicians towards PHRs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Positive psychology interventions in a student counselling centre: an exploratory study
- Authors: Miano, Pamela Wanjiru
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Positive psychology College students Counseling psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11702 , vital:26958
- Description: University students in South Africa today face a variety of issues with academic and relationship problems, career development issues, depression and anxiety being the most common. This negatively impacts their pass rates and personal success. Research into positive psychology has increased considerably over the past few years. Seligman‟s PERMA model has played a pivotal role in assisting in the understanding of what constitutes a flourishing life. The proposed study aimed to explore and describe the impact of five interventions, based on each of the aspects of the PERMA model, on Student Counselling clients. The research sample consisted of 10 participants seeking Student Counselling, Career and Development Centre Services at NMMU. Purposive sampling was uses to source participants. The researcher facilitated a six-week group programme which was developed by the researcher. In this programme, the participants were introduced to the aspects of the PERMA model. The participants implemented interventions in between sessions and journals of their experiences provided qualitative data on their experiences. The Beck Depression Inventory II and the Satisfaction With Life Scale were utilized as pre and post intervention measure. ATLAS.ti software programme and descriptive statistics were utilized for qualitative and quantitative data analysis respectively. Key findings included benefits such as an overall decrease in depressive symptoms and an increase in life satisfaction following the interventions. The negative impact of academic concerns on life satisfaction was also noted. Moreover, participants reported that they enjoyed both the content and the interactive nature of the group sessions. In conclusion, implementing positive psychology group interventions on students is promoted as a result of the emerging benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Miano, Pamela Wanjiru
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Positive psychology College students Counseling psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11702 , vital:26958
- Description: University students in South Africa today face a variety of issues with academic and relationship problems, career development issues, depression and anxiety being the most common. This negatively impacts their pass rates and personal success. Research into positive psychology has increased considerably over the past few years. Seligman‟s PERMA model has played a pivotal role in assisting in the understanding of what constitutes a flourishing life. The proposed study aimed to explore and describe the impact of five interventions, based on each of the aspects of the PERMA model, on Student Counselling clients. The research sample consisted of 10 participants seeking Student Counselling, Career and Development Centre Services at NMMU. Purposive sampling was uses to source participants. The researcher facilitated a six-week group programme which was developed by the researcher. In this programme, the participants were introduced to the aspects of the PERMA model. The participants implemented interventions in between sessions and journals of their experiences provided qualitative data on their experiences. The Beck Depression Inventory II and the Satisfaction With Life Scale were utilized as pre and post intervention measure. ATLAS.ti software programme and descriptive statistics were utilized for qualitative and quantitative data analysis respectively. Key findings included benefits such as an overall decrease in depressive symptoms and an increase in life satisfaction following the interventions. The negative impact of academic concerns on life satisfaction was also noted. Moreover, participants reported that they enjoyed both the content and the interactive nature of the group sessions. In conclusion, implementing positive psychology group interventions on students is promoted as a result of the emerging benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Possible economic strategies to diversify the crude oil-based economy in South Sudan
- Authors: Kambamba, Abe Khamis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8241 , vital:26238
- Description: Post-independence South Sudan has many areas in which progress is required in order to develop the economy. South Sudan’s economy, for is still run largely (98%) on oil revenues. In order to improve the standards of living of the citizens, good governance, transparency and accountability are the key. These will help build confidence, stability as well as the credibility of the government. How to achieve diversification of the economy in order to move away from the overdependence on oil will be the focus of this research. Diversification, especially in the context of small and fragile economies, has become an important topic. This research will investigate possible economic strategies to diversify the crude-based economy in South Sudan and will assess the circumstances under which economic diversification can be achieved. The research will identify and analyse the issues that impede and hinder economic growth in the non-oil sectors of the South Sudanese economy and explore how far the government has delivered the conditions necessary for the private sector to grow so that it can contribute considerably to the diversification and growth of the economy and the nation. This research was started in 2012, one year after South Sudan got its independence from Sudan. The country’s first Development Plan was rolled out in 2011. Unfortunately, a war broke out in December 2013, disrupting life in the new country, especially economic activities. A peace treaty has since been signed to end the war. The government, however, still continues forward with just one source of revenue – oil. Nonetheless, the findings of this research will offer an analysis as well as recommendations for ways to diversify the South Sudanese economy once peace is firmly established in the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kambamba, Abe Khamis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8241 , vital:26238
- Description: Post-independence South Sudan has many areas in which progress is required in order to develop the economy. South Sudan’s economy, for is still run largely (98%) on oil revenues. In order to improve the standards of living of the citizens, good governance, transparency and accountability are the key. These will help build confidence, stability as well as the credibility of the government. How to achieve diversification of the economy in order to move away from the overdependence on oil will be the focus of this research. Diversification, especially in the context of small and fragile economies, has become an important topic. This research will investigate possible economic strategies to diversify the crude-based economy in South Sudan and will assess the circumstances under which economic diversification can be achieved. The research will identify and analyse the issues that impede and hinder economic growth in the non-oil sectors of the South Sudanese economy and explore how far the government has delivered the conditions necessary for the private sector to grow so that it can contribute considerably to the diversification and growth of the economy and the nation. This research was started in 2012, one year after South Sudan got its independence from Sudan. The country’s first Development Plan was rolled out in 2011. Unfortunately, a war broke out in December 2013, disrupting life in the new country, especially economic activities. A peace treaty has since been signed to end the war. The government, however, still continues forward with just one source of revenue – oil. Nonetheless, the findings of this research will offer an analysis as well as recommendations for ways to diversify the South Sudanese economy once peace is firmly established in the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Post -war recovery and development in Liberia since 2013
- Authors: Mbulle-Nziege, Leonard
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Postwar reconstruction -- Liberia Liberia -- Politics and government -- 21st century , Peace-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12361 , vital:27058
- Description: The aims and objectives of this study are notably, to provide an overall understanding of the history of Liberia, from the country’s foundation, through the civil war, up to the present day post-conflict scenario. It intends to identify the strategies and schemes put in place by Liberian officials and other stakeholders, while outlining the importance of attaining the goals attached to these various plans. The difficulties of achieving these post-conflict development goals will also be noted, and finally, It analyses whether the concepts used in Liberia might also be implemented in post-conflict societies not only in Africa, but all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mbulle-Nziege, Leonard
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Postwar reconstruction -- Liberia Liberia -- Politics and government -- 21st century , Peace-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12361 , vital:27058
- Description: The aims and objectives of this study are notably, to provide an overall understanding of the history of Liberia, from the country’s foundation, through the civil war, up to the present day post-conflict scenario. It intends to identify the strategies and schemes put in place by Liberian officials and other stakeholders, while outlining the importance of attaining the goals attached to these various plans. The difficulties of achieving these post-conflict development goals will also be noted, and finally, It analyses whether the concepts used in Liberia might also be implemented in post-conflict societies not only in Africa, but all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Poverty alleviation initiatives in Amathole District
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Lulama Lucricia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11843 , vital:26978
- Description: The study is looking at poverty alleviation initiatives in Amathole district, the case of Gqushwa local Municipality. The study is looking at the issue of consultation and support that government is offering to the beneficiaries when they are involved in the poverty alleviation projects. The right to food is a human rights issue as enshrined in the constitution of the South Africa on the other hand the policies and legislation of the county also backs the development and establishment of such initiatives. Amongst the findings of the study the following points are very key, establishment of the projects, the contribution that these projects have on the lives of the project members, members remaining poverty stricken even though they have 5 years or more participating in the project, most of the time there is no ownership from the community members and lastly the leadership of the community not showing interest in the projects even though they enhance accessibility to resources like poultry and vegetable gardens. In other instances, they indicated that the projects do not show good returns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Lulama Lucricia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11843 , vital:26978
- Description: The study is looking at poverty alleviation initiatives in Amathole district, the case of Gqushwa local Municipality. The study is looking at the issue of consultation and support that government is offering to the beneficiaries when they are involved in the poverty alleviation projects. The right to food is a human rights issue as enshrined in the constitution of the South Africa on the other hand the policies and legislation of the county also backs the development and establishment of such initiatives. Amongst the findings of the study the following points are very key, establishment of the projects, the contribution that these projects have on the lives of the project members, members remaining poverty stricken even though they have 5 years or more participating in the project, most of the time there is no ownership from the community members and lastly the leadership of the community not showing interest in the projects even though they enhance accessibility to resources like poultry and vegetable gardens. In other instances, they indicated that the projects do not show good returns.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Preparing for life after rugby
- Authors: Koch, Wilhelm
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Planning Rugby football players -- Retirement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21537 , vital:29535
- Description: The inception of rugby as a workforce in 1995 created a range of new issues surrounding sport as a vocation. With professional rugby often wearing the glamorous coat of fame and fortune, young athletes sacrifice education and learning additional life-skills in pursuit of well-paid contracts and glitzy lifestyles unaware of the realities rugby as a profession holds. One such reality is the relatively short lifespan of a professional rugby career and the fact that transition to a whole new career is firstly inevitable and secondly a very challenging process. Traditional retirement has been associated with the end of a long working career, making comprehensive lifestyle- and financial planning part of the preparation process. This process helps the retiree anticipate and understand the expected demands of life beyond a working career. In rugby however, the retirement experience of a player can be extremely difficult to cope with, especially if the player is not adequately prepared or has not planned for such an event. This leaves players vulnerable for the imminent new phase of life and often leads to physiological - and other challenges players are not able to withstand in a world outside sport (Price, 2007). The aim of this study is to identify the different aspects that influence a professional rugby player’s retirement – and transition experience into a new profession. The researcher believes that an increased understanding of how current and retired professional rugby players perceive/experienced the retirement process would assist current players to better plan and prepare for this phase of life. This ultimately would reduce the anxiety and uncertainty for life after rugby. If players are more relaxed and stress-free about their future, more focus could also be placed on the here-and-now, leading to greater performance on the current field of play. The views of both current and retired professional rugby players were captured through questionnaires distributed all around South Africa. The researcher utilised a mixed mode paradigm of both positivistic and interpretive research methods. This approach enabled him to best compare the views of the two groups and test the developed theories and hypothesis. Ultimately, the research revealed that the presence of the following variables will have a positive influence on a player’s retirement and transition experience: A) Leadership, advice and planning for retirement B) Tertiary education and additional work skills C) Popularity amongst fans and other influential people D) Sufficient wealth and E) A self-selected retirement. With these findings the researcher will develop some specific guidelines for current professional rugby players to help them firstly better prepare for their life beyond sport and secondly successfully switch to a new career. A few valuable recommendations were also made to other stakeholders to better assist and support players in their preparation and transition process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Koch, Wilhelm
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Planning Rugby football players -- Retirement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21537 , vital:29535
- Description: The inception of rugby as a workforce in 1995 created a range of new issues surrounding sport as a vocation. With professional rugby often wearing the glamorous coat of fame and fortune, young athletes sacrifice education and learning additional life-skills in pursuit of well-paid contracts and glitzy lifestyles unaware of the realities rugby as a profession holds. One such reality is the relatively short lifespan of a professional rugby career and the fact that transition to a whole new career is firstly inevitable and secondly a very challenging process. Traditional retirement has been associated with the end of a long working career, making comprehensive lifestyle- and financial planning part of the preparation process. This process helps the retiree anticipate and understand the expected demands of life beyond a working career. In rugby however, the retirement experience of a player can be extremely difficult to cope with, especially if the player is not adequately prepared or has not planned for such an event. This leaves players vulnerable for the imminent new phase of life and often leads to physiological - and other challenges players are not able to withstand in a world outside sport (Price, 2007). The aim of this study is to identify the different aspects that influence a professional rugby player’s retirement – and transition experience into a new profession. The researcher believes that an increased understanding of how current and retired professional rugby players perceive/experienced the retirement process would assist current players to better plan and prepare for this phase of life. This ultimately would reduce the anxiety and uncertainty for life after rugby. If players are more relaxed and stress-free about their future, more focus could also be placed on the here-and-now, leading to greater performance on the current field of play. The views of both current and retired professional rugby players were captured through questionnaires distributed all around South Africa. The researcher utilised a mixed mode paradigm of both positivistic and interpretive research methods. This approach enabled him to best compare the views of the two groups and test the developed theories and hypothesis. Ultimately, the research revealed that the presence of the following variables will have a positive influence on a player’s retirement and transition experience: A) Leadership, advice and planning for retirement B) Tertiary education and additional work skills C) Popularity amongst fans and other influential people D) Sufficient wealth and E) A self-selected retirement. With these findings the researcher will develop some specific guidelines for current professional rugby players to help them firstly better prepare for their life beyond sport and secondly successfully switch to a new career. A few valuable recommendations were also made to other stakeholders to better assist and support players in their preparation and transition process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Preventative measures implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller
- Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Authors: Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial safety , Human rights workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8392 , vital:26351
- Description: Purpose of study: The purpose of this study was to explore preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety at SABMiller. Objective: The primary objective was to examine preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller. The study assessed the effectiveness of management strategies in the prevention of occupational health and safety injuries within SABMiller. Population and sample: The primary case is a beer manufacturing company in Rosslyn called SABMiller. The brewery operates in six different departments and each has a large staff population. Methodology: This study applied a mixed-method using a multiple case study design as an approach to the enquiry. Methods of data collection: Documents, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews were be used to obtain data to answer the research questions. Process of analysis: Qualitative and quantitative themes were analysed in a matrix. The three data sources were triangulated to validate the findings. Benefits of the study: Injury prevention benefits the employer and employee in many ways, including increased employee performance leading to increased productivity as well as cost savings. Main findings: Injuries that were reported were mostly musculoskeletal injuries and are mainly caused by human error. Most injuries that were reported are caused by contractors. Health and safety training and knowledge sharing was not well supported and injury prevention strategies were not optimised. Poor quality incident investigation, contractor injuries, lack of funding on safety projects, slow progress on loop closer and induction procedure not followed were the five main challenges to injury prevention management systems. Conclusions: The implementation of an effective injury measurement implementation programme could benefit the organisation and translate into increased operational value (organisational quality).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial safety , Human rights workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8392 , vital:26351
- Description: Purpose of study: The purpose of this study was to explore preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety at SABMiller. Objective: The primary objective was to examine preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller. The study assessed the effectiveness of management strategies in the prevention of occupational health and safety injuries within SABMiller. Population and sample: The primary case is a beer manufacturing company in Rosslyn called SABMiller. The brewery operates in six different departments and each has a large staff population. Methodology: This study applied a mixed-method using a multiple case study design as an approach to the enquiry. Methods of data collection: Documents, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews were be used to obtain data to answer the research questions. Process of analysis: Qualitative and quantitative themes were analysed in a matrix. The three data sources were triangulated to validate the findings. Benefits of the study: Injury prevention benefits the employer and employee in many ways, including increased employee performance leading to increased productivity as well as cost savings. Main findings: Injuries that were reported were mostly musculoskeletal injuries and are mainly caused by human error. Most injuries that were reported are caused by contractors. Health and safety training and knowledge sharing was not well supported and injury prevention strategies were not optimised. Poor quality incident investigation, contractor injuries, lack of funding on safety projects, slow progress on loop closer and induction procedure not followed were the five main challenges to injury prevention management systems. Conclusions: The implementation of an effective injury measurement implementation programme could benefit the organisation and translate into increased operational value (organisational quality).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016